Shop Talk Wellness Session
Facilitator: Arron Muller, LCSW
Arron Muller is a dynamic force driving change in the mental health landscape. A certified licensed therapist, engaging speaker, and dedicated mental health advocate, Arron's mission is to redefine narratives, amplify voices, and dismantle stigmas. As the Chief Operating Officer and Therapist at Life Matters alongside his wife, Dr. Trudy-Ann Gayle, Arron orchestrates transformative individual and couples counseling using an eclectic approach. With a Master of Social Work degree from Adelphi University, he seamlessly blends expertise with empathy.
Arron's influence extends beyond therapy sessions. He founded Modify Wellness, a platform focused on making mental health understandable and relatable through digestible conversations. Collaborating with Adelphi University School of Social Work, he launched the groundbreaking Breaking the Ice Black Men's Conference, fostering crucial dialogues on black men's mental health and wellness.
Featured on notable platforms like Hot 97 and THE DOCTORS, Arron's insights reach diverse audiences. Recognized as one of the "15 Black Male Therapists You Should Know" by The Huffington Post and featured in Black Enterprise's BE Modern Man 100 Men of Distinction, Arron's impact is resounding. Through initiatives like "Black Kings Need Therapy Too" and NYC Brothers Thrive, he's challenging stigmas and fostering understanding. Arron's mission: changing perceptions, one conversation at a time.
Mirror Mirror: Building a Positive Self-Image and Affirmation Wellness Session
Facilitator: Rhonda Yancey, LCSW
Rhonda Yancey, LCSW, is a dynamic leader and goal-oriented Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a proven ability to manage multiple responsibilities, design and implement quality programs, ensure compliance with Medicaid and Medicare licensure regulations, and cultivate the professional growth of sta . Her passion lies in helping individuals and families overcome barriers to emotional and relational well-being. Through a strong therapeutic alliance, Rhonda guides individuals and families in exploring alternative problem-solving approaches and reshaping unhelpful thought patterns. She integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Emotional Freedom Techniques into her work, tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. A dedicated and organized therapist, Rhonda is committed to continual professional growth and delivering effective, compassionate care. With extensive clinical experience and a broad understanding of diverse populations, she brings both expertise and empathy to every setting, making her a valuable asset to the field of social work.
Trauma, Drama, and Yo' Mama
Facilitator: Mario Barnes, LCSW
Mario Barnes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, therapist, clinical supervisor, speaker, and founder of Community C.U.R.E. Connections Co., where the mission is rooted in Compassion, Understanding, Respect, and Empathy.
With years of experience working in mental health, relationship dynamics, emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and personal development, Mario has dedicated his work to helping people better understand themselves, their patterns, and the way their experiences shape how they think, feel, and function.
Throughout his career, he has worked with individuals, couples, families, military service members, and groups, helping people navigate communication challenges, relationship conflict, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and unhealthy patterns.
Mario is known for his ability to break down complex emotional and psychological concepts into practical, relatable, and actionable insights that people can apply to their everyday lives. His approach combines clinical knowledge, real-life application, self-awareness, accountability, emotional intelligence, and practical strategies for change.
At the core of his work is one central belief: "The life you want, the life you don't want, and the life you have... it's all connected." Mario believes that growth is not about perfection-it is about awareness, ownership, consistency, and the willingness to choose differently moving forward.
Social-Emotional Wellness: Cultivating Social-Emotional Wellness for Holistic Adult Development
Facilitator: Sha'Ron Radford, MSW
Sha’Ron is a Restorative Practices Coordinator with a passion for helping students and educators grow, build strong relationships, and make positive choices. Born and reared in Paterson, New Jersey, she earned a Division I full basketball scholarship to the University of Delaware and continued her collegiate journey at Wagner College—experiences that shaped her discipline, resilience, and commitment to teamwork.
Since moving to Virginia in 2012, Sha’Ron has spent over a decade working with students from elementary through college, helping them navigate challenges, develop confidence, and succeed both in and out of the classroom. She specializes in social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and proactive approaches that focus on growth rather than punishment.
She holds a Master of Social Work from Norfolk State University and is known for her ability to connect with people from all walks of life—meeting them where they are while encouraging them to become their best selves. Sha’Ron believes that everyone makes mistakes, but those moments are opportunities to learn, grow, and do better. Her message is simple and powerful: you matter, your voice matters, and you always have the power to make a positive impact.
The Escape Room:
Facilitator: Calvin G. Cooper, MSW
Calvin G. Cooper is a dedicated and accomplished professional with a rich background in social work, education, and counseling. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with honors from Norfolk State University in December 2006, showcasing his commitment to academic excellence and achievement. Continuing his education, Calvin pursued a Masters in Social Work at Norfolk State University, graduating in May 2019 where he served as a graduate assistant to the program coordinator.
Calvin's passion for making a positive impact in the lives of individuals led him to embark on a fulfilling career journey. In his primary role, Calvin plays a vital part in addressing the diverse needs of students, ensuring the implementation of appropriate services and programming. His responsibilities include conducting school-based psychosocial assessments, participating in multidisciplinary teams, offering crisis intervention services, and providing direct support to students and parents through various therapeutic milieus. Calvin also serves as a liaison between schools, families, and community agencies, reflecting his commitment to fostering collaboration and holistic support for those he serves. In addition to his role as a School Social Worker, he serves as the Critical Incident Response Team Coordinator for Hampton City Schools. In this crucial position, Calvin plays a pivotal role in coordinating and leading the team's efforts to address and respond effectively to critical incidents, ensuring the well-being and support of students and staff during challenging situations. Complementing his role as a School Social Worker, Calvin has been contributing to the field of education as an Adjunct Professor at both Norfolk State University and Christopher Newport University. In this capacity, he imparts his knowledge and expertise to undergraduate students in courses such as Professionalism in Social Work, Social Work Practice: Families and Groups, Human Behavior, International Social Work Affairs and more. Calvin maintains a professional course environment that aligns with ethical standards and ensures the comprehensive preparation of future social work practitioners.
Before his current roles, Calvin gained valuable experience as a Behavioral Counselor and Therapeutic Mentor at Hampton Newport News Community Service Board, where he provided milieu treatment, behavior management, and case management services for children facing behavioral and emotional challenges. He also served as an Intensive In-Home Counselor at 1Life 1Love, Inc., delivering individual, family, and group therapy to address a spectrum of needs, including anger management, behavioral disorders, social-emotional support, and substance abuse.
Calvin’s commitment to community well-being is evident in his past roles, including positions at The New YCAPP, Inc., where he served as both the Quality Assurance Manager and Site Supervisor. His responsibilities ranged from overseeing Quality Assurance to managing program training requirements and conducting eligibility reviews. Calvin also held significant roles at Newport News Behavioral Health Center, where he worked as a Utilization and Review Coordinator, Unit Manager, and Mental Health Counselor.
Throughout his career, Calvin has consistently demonstrated a commitment to professional growth, participating in activities at local and national levels. His dedication to education, counseling, and advocacy underscores his contribution to the betterment of individuals and communities. As a School Social Worker, Adjunct Professor, and seasoned Behavioral Counselor, Calvin Cooper continues to leave a positive impact on the lives of those he serves.
The Chair:
Facilitator: Terry Caldwell, LCSW
Ms. Caldwell is a 2-time graduate of Norfolk State University with a BS in Sociology in 1992 and an MSW in 1996. She has over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field in various settings such as school, the juvenile justice system, group home, and private practice. Ms. Caldwell is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at the Hampton VA Medical Center in 2 programs: Polytrauma, and the Virginia Beach Community Based Outpatient Clinic. She also owns a private practice, Rebecca’s Heart Therapeutic Services, LLC, located in Downtown Norfolk.
Ms. Caldwell is trained in several therapeutic modalities such as Acceptance and commitment Therapy
for Depression (ACT-D); Eye Movement Desensitization and Re-processing (EMDR,); Cognitive Behavioral
Therapy (CBT); Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT),; and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Massaging the Mind: Exploring the Transformative Benefits of Massage Therapy on Mental Health
Facilitator: The Well Virginia Beach
At The WellVB, our experienced and highly trained licensed therapists are dedicated to understanding your unique needs and crafting services that support true holistic healing. With deep knowledge of the body and a genuine passion for nurturing others, our team creates personalized experiences that honor where you are and guide you toward deeper balance and well-being.
We are committed to using only high-quality products that we truly believe support the body’s natural healing process. Every oil, scrub, and treatment formula is thoughtfully chosen for its purity, effectiveness, and ability to nourish the body. To deepen this sense of care, we invite you to begin and end your service in our serene relaxation lounge—an environment designed to help you unwind, slow down, and fully expand your restoration. With soothing teas, a calming ambiance, and intentional quiet, this space enhances the restorative effects of the treatments you receive.
Our menu of innovative services is designed to elevate your healing experience and meet a wide range of wellness needs. From therapeutic massage techniques to rejuvenating body rituals, detoxifying MLD sessions, and other specialized treatments, each service is crafted with intention and tailored to help you feel renewed, aligned, and deeply cared for. At The WellVB, every detail reflects our commitment to attentive, meaningful, and transformative care.
Mindful Fusion: Integrating Mindfulness Meditation and Yoga for Mental Health
Facilitator: Yunjeong Shin, LCSW
Born and raised in South Korea, Yunjeong pursued her passion for education at Yonsei University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Educational Administration. Her academic journey continued at Norfolk State University, where she obtained a master’s degree in Social Work. Since 2006, Yunjeong has served as a School Social Worker at Hampton City Schools. She also established a non-profit organization, Peninsula Hanaro Korean School, where she initially served as principal and now contributes as a school board director.
In addition to her work in education, Yunjeong has applied her linguistic expertise as a contractor for the Department of Defense, designing online Korean courses for U.S. foreign officers. Her memoir, “Mom, Who Am I?” published in Korea in 2009, offers an introspective look at her experiences as an immigrant, mother, and Korean-American, reflecting her journey and insights.
Yunjeong's passion extends beyond her professional roles to her personal life, where she embraces mindfulness and self-care. She integrates these values into her daily routine through yoga and pilates, exploring various styles to enhance her mind-body connection. These practices also influence her approach to group counseling, where she incorporates mindfulness yoga as a tool for Social Emotional Learning.