FOUNDER and PRESIDENT

Valencia Jones, LPC, has been a counselor in our community for over 8 years. Her goal is to contribute to the mental wellness solution through advocacy, raising awareness, offering low—or no-cost therapy, and educating the public. She firmly believes that changing how people think positively impacts their emotions, health, families, careers, relationships, community, and life. She truly believes in Proverbs 23:7, “As a man thinks, so is he.”

She knows that the hierarchy of needs must also be met first to even begin the journey of mental wellness. It is difficult or impossible to focus on healing mentally and emotionally if you lack food, clothes, shelter, safety, etc. This is why the “Social Therapy Project” was formed: to make all of these resources, along with mental health services, available through our non-profit.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH COORDINATOR

Dr. Will James is a founding member of the board for the Social Therapy Project. He is a community activist with a passion for bringing awareness to the various issues that plague our society. A native of the historic Ledbetter Heights neighborhood that is in downtown Shreveport, Louisiana, Dr. James at an early age learned the importance of community and giving to those in need by observing his mother working with local nonprofit organizations and recreation centers.

Joining the United States Army at 18, Dr. James served multiple tours of duty in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and parts of Europe as an electrical engineer. In this capacity, through working with different entities on a military and civilian level, he learned the importance of building community, one helping hand at a time. Upon completing his time in the armed forces as a decorated combat veteran, Dr. James obtained a master’s degree in Theatre with a focus on lighting and sound.

With his connection to military-based trauma, he also went on to receive his doctorate degrees in both Sociology and Psychology, wanting to understand not only the seemingly different socioeconomic factors that can influence not only the individual way but also the various ways violence-based trauma can cause individuals to repeat the cycle of verbal and physical abuse. Dr. James uses the information he gathers to help women and children with basic needs items and help low-income veterans at various points throughout the year while also checking in with them regarding their physical and emotional health.

P.R. DIRECTOR

Diana brings a unique blend of creativity, spirituality, and technical expertise to her role at STP. With a rich background in computer programming, online entrepreneurship, and nature photography, she applies a diverse skill set to her work in graphic design, web development, and marketing.

Inspired by the ethereal qualities of Georgia O'Keeffe's art, Diana infuses a painterly touch into her designs, elevating the visual storytelling of STP. Her commitment to spiritual growth, deeply influenced by her studies at the Living School and a dedication to A Course in Miracles (ACIM), guides her approach to creating meaningful and impactful communications.

Through her project "Uplift with HeART," Diana has demonstrated a profound belief in the healing power of art, a principle she carries into her work to spread our mission. As she navigates the intersection of creativity, technology, and spirituality, Diana aims to capture and share moments of grace and beauty, enriching the community and supporting our goals.

VOLUNTEER/EVENT COORDINATOR

Alexis Thomas is driven by a deep-seated passion to assist others in any way she can, whether by providing clothing, food, or knowledge. As a multifaceted individual, she juggles roles as a mother, writer, singer, dancer, and wedding and event planner, embodying the essence of a tireless contributor whose work is never done.