Meet Dr. Monica
award-winning licensed psychotherapist, educator, and clinical supervisor
founder of a group practice built on the belief that culturally responsive care isn't an add-on; it's the foundation
specializing in intercultural relationships, cultural identity, and the cost of navigating more than one world
writer helping people untangle the ways culture shapes connection, and teaching their therapists how
Seen. Valued. Safe.
That’s when people bring their full selves to work. They collaborate instead of compete, innovate instead of protect, and stay instead of burn out. Healing begins when we create space for all of who we are.
It’s the purpose behind everything I do and the mission I am here for
It's the daily practice of building cultures where people can show up fully without fragmenting or performing.
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Cross-cultural dialogue and communication that bridges divides and builds understanding
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Leadership practices rooted in empathy, accountability, and cultural humility
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Systems change that makes belonging sustainable, not performative
SERVICES
Whether I'm working with individuals, therapists, or organizations, my goal is the same: to create spaces where people can show up fully, without having to leave parts of themselves behind.
Project Healthy Minds
How to Break the Doomscroll Loop
By Alexis Sutherland
2026
You Seem Fine
2025
Project Healthy Minds
AI Therapy for Teens: What Is It and Is It Safe?
By Chrissy Holm
2025
Washingtonian
Not Feeling Festive This Year
A therapist weighs in on the pressure to feel merry this season
2025
Nothing In My Brain
Filial Piety, Cultural Stigmas, and Intergenerational Silence
2025
Counseling Today
Counseling Among Friends
By Dara Chadwick
2025
Counseling Today
How to Advocate for Clients in Turbulent Times
By Elizabeth Andrade
2025
Project Healthy Minds
AI Therapy and Teens: A Guide for Parents and Guardians
By Chrissy Holm
2025
Washingtonian
What Trump’s Return Means for DC
By Washingtonian Staff
2025
PODCAST
I Need To Ask You Something!
Created in partnership with The Jed Foundation
a unique 10-part series that bridges the gap between the things we need to say and the words we’re afraid to hear. Each week, trauma therapist Dr. Monica Band sits down with a young person and their parent, friend or partner to help them create a blueprint for building stronger relationships while healing out loud.
Therapists, This One’s for You
In March of 2026, we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Monica Band as a trainer and guide as we looked at deepening our work with immigrant, international, and undocumented students on campus. Before she even arrived in Blacksburg, she had already displayed a warmth, intentionality, and depth of insight that highlighted her passion for this work and the thoughtful ways she was considering bringing this message to our staff. The training itself felt both foundational and timely as we walked through theory and practice: Dr. Band presenting this loaded material captivatingly with willingness to sit with staff cases and questions. We can’t wait for Dr. Band to join us again in the future!
Justin Hawkersmith, M.S., NCC, LPC
Assistant Director of Clinical Services
Virginia Tech
Thomas E. Cook Counseling Center
Monica became my clinical supervisor in early 2022, and it has proven time and time again that knowing her is one of the best decisions I’ve made in my clinical journey. She challenges clinicians to grow into the best versions of ourselves. Even after earning my independent license, Monica remains my first call whenever I need guidance or clarity on a clinical or career decision. When I doubted myself before opening my private practice, she was the one who reminded me that I’m not only capable but worthy of building something of my own. She’s also realistic about the business side of being a therapist, which makes her support both comforting and practical. In short, she is invaluable. I’m endlessly grateful to have her in my corner.
Dawn-Marie Parker, LPC
In May 2025, I had the pleasure of inviting Dr. Monica P. Band to serve as our keynote speaker for our Chi Sigma Iota International Honor Society for Lehman College’s inaugural induction ceremony and graduation celebration.
The selection process was both thoughtful and collaborative—students played an active role in reviewing speaker options and ultimately voted to invite Dr. Band. They were drawn to her for her authenticity, culturally responsive approach, and ability to connect across generations.
Our program is made up of future counselors, and we were looking for someone who could speak meaningfully to their lived experiences and aspirations.
On the day of the event, Dr. Band delivered a thought-provoking keynote exploring life after graduation and the small, intentional acts of resistance we can take against the mental health industrial complex. She wove in themes of community healing, collective care, and lessons from her own journey. Her message resonated deeply—capturing the attention of students and family members alike, and leaving the audience with a renewed sense of purpose and connection.
Dr. Band was an outstanding choice, and I would confidently recommend her as a speaker for any audience seeking depth, relatability, and inspiration.
Dr. Anna Flores Locke
Latina Fertility Expert
Lecturer at Lehman College
