meet your neighborhood therapist- that’s me!

Hi, I’m Shantanique Jackson—author of What is Mental Health? and When Grief Hits Home, mental health therapist for kids and teens, and proud Detroit native. I earned my degree from Michigan State University (MSU) and have dedicated my career to supporting youth mental health. Shantanique is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

My passion for this work began at just 19 years old while working in my community. Kids naturally gravitated toward me, sharing their struggles and feelings. During this time, I faced the heartbreaking loss of my sister, La’Tavia Dania Coker. It was the kids I supported who, in turn, gave me strength during one of the hardest times in my life. That experience deepened my commitment to creating safe spaces for children to heal and grow.

Becoming an author wasn’t on my original vision board, but life had other plans. When a close friend struggled to find resources for her children after the sudden loss of their grandmother, I realized the power of a book as a tool for healing and connection. Writing became an extension of my therapy work—a way to ensure every child has access to conversations about mental health and emotional well-being.

Today, my mission is clear: to empower kids, support families, and spark meaningful conversations about mental health—one story, one session, and one child at a time.

Welcome to my NeighborHOOD. Let’s make an impact together.