the national Association of Black Counselors
Regional Director: Neisha L. Stephens, MA, LPC (Associate)
(Tennessee, Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi)
Neisha L. Stephens leads the Southwestern Region of the National Association of Black Counselors with a commitment to connection, professional development, leadership, and advocacy for Black counselors throughout Tennessee, Alabama, Kentucky, and Mississippi.
Her leadership centers on creating opportunities for counselors to build meaningful professional relationships, strengthen their voices within the profession, develop as leaders, and remain connected to a community that understands the unique experiences of Black mental health professionals.
Our Regional Focus
The Southwestern Region is committed to strengthening NABC’s presence across all four states by:
- Increasing member engagement and connection
- Developing state-level leadership and representation
- Creating opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and collaboration
- Supporting students, emerging professionals, and seasoned counselors
- Elevating the voices and expertise of Black mental health professionals
- Expanding awareness of NABC throughout our communities and professional networks
Building Leadership Across the Region
A major priority of the Southwestern Region is developing a strong network of leaders who can help connect members within their individual states.
Through the development of State Leads, regional engagement opportunities, mentorship, and collaborative initiatives, we are working toward a region where members have meaningful opportunities to connect, contribute, lead, and grow.
Why Our Work Matters
Representation matters—not only for the clients and communities we serve, but also within our profession.
Black counselors deserve professional spaces where they can build community, receive support, exchange knowledge, develop leadership skills, and see their experiences reflected and valued.
The Southwestern Region is committed to helping create those spaces while advancing NABC’s broader mission of strengthening and supporting Black counselors.
Join Our Movement
Whether you are a counseling student, new professional, seasoned clinician, educator, supervisor, advocate, or leader, there is a place for you within the Southwestern Region.
Connect. Collaborate. Lead. Grow.
Together, we can continue building a stronger network of Black counselors throughout Tennessee, Alabama, Kentucky, and Mississippi.
Connect with us: southwestern@nabcounselors.org