By: Alex Popa
Phadia N. Jean-Pierre, born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and now residing in Stamford, Connecticut, is a passionate advocate for mental health, particularly focusing on Black women. With roots in La Vallée de Jacmel, where she spent her vacations, Phadia’s Haitian heritage deeply shapes her worldview.
Education and work
Phadia is currently a Ph.D. student at Adelphi University, pursuing a doctorate in social work. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in social work from Adelphi University. Her academic journey reflects her passion for mental health and trauma-informed care.
As a licensed Haitian-Creole-speaking mental health therapist with several years of experience, Phadia has dedicated her career to serving culturally underserved communities. She has supervised social work interns and earned an academic appointment at Yale University School of Medicine.
Her focus is on providing Black women with high-quality, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Her mother and grandmother, who modeled resilience and compassion, profoundly influenced Phadia’s journey. They opened their home to the less fortunate and engaged in global missionary work, instilling in Phadia a strong sense of community and service. Her godmother, Lolo, has also played a pivotal role in her life, teaching her the importance of love, family, and pursuing her dreams.
In her professional life, Phadia draws inspiration from the women at Global Trauma Research, particularly Dr. Florence Saint-Jean, who has created a safe space for underserved populations. Phadia’s work with this organization and others has inspired her to become a visionary in her own right, empowering women of color to invest in their mental and emotional well-being.
Impact on the Haitian Community
Phadia’s Haitian roots are integral to her identity. Her upbringing in Haiti deepened her appreciation for the rich culture and resilience of the Haitian people. She maintains her connection to her homeland by advocating for mental health initiatives that prioritize trauma relief and community wellness.
Through the Haiti Trauma Project and various partnerships, she has facilitated mental health workshops, provided training for practitioners, and organized community events aimed at promoting healing and wellness within the Haitian community.
Goals and ambitions
Phadia’s passion for mental health deeply aligns with her personal and professional goals. She envisions expanding her business, SWITCH, LLC, which focuses on helping women of color address trauma and mental health challenges. Her long-term goals include hosting more community wellness events, establishing support groups for Black women, and partnering with local organizations to broaden her impact.
As a leader in her field, Phadia aims to continue making a difference in the lives of Black women by promoting mental health awareness, self-care, and resilience. Her vision extends to global initiatives, where she hopes to bring trauma-informed care to underserved populations worldwide.
For fun, Phadia enjoys traveling, writing poetry, playing soccer, and meditating. She also loves spending time with her family and friends to bond and relax.
