Dr. Cheryl Ivory, PhD
Dr. Cheryl Ivory, PhD, is a seasoned psychotherapist, clinical director, and LPC supervisor with over 20 years of experience in mental health and counseling. As the Clinical Director of Enlightened Psychotherapy in Houston, Texas, she provides guidance and supervision to practicum students and Associates while delivering compassionate care to pastors, ministers, leaders, and community members facing a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges. Dr. Ivory’s practice integrates faith-based counseling with evidence-based therapeutic techniques, creating a holistic approach to mental wellness. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Ivory is an ordained pastor and co-founder of Life After Life Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families and feeding the unhoused. Her leadership extends beyond private practice into the broader community, advocating for mental health awareness, grief counseling, and the development of emerging clinicians. She has built a highly respected private practice since 2011, where many clients have returned over the years for continued guidance and support—a testament to her lasting impact. Dr. Ivory holds a PhD in Pastoral Studies and Counseling from Louisiana Baptist University and has also pursued doctoral studies in counseling at Walden University. Her current professional focus includes expanding her role as an LPC supervisor, mentoring clinicians, and completing her upcoming book on mental health in the Black community. Recognized for her expertise in psychotherapy, grief counseling, and private practice management, Dr. Ivory continues to influence the mental health field through her clinical work, teaching, and advocacy.
• LPC-S
• Louisiana Baptist University - PhD
• ACA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, strong moral values, persistence, and a deep commitment to purpose-driven work. I feel called to help others heal, and I believe my career path chose me rather than the other way around. At the center of both my professional and personal journey is my faith in God, which guides and sustains me in all that I do.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my college dean, who encouraged me to pursue my LPC degree. Throughout my career, I’ve also been guided and supported by faith leaders and professional colleagues whose wisdom and encouragement have helped shape my path.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young people entering this industry is to pursue meaningful work, stay grounded in your purpose, and uphold strong values. Love what you do or don't do it! Don’t let financial pressures compromise your integrity. I also encourage young women—especially women of color—to believe that success is possible, regardless of their background.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is ensuring mental health services are affordable and accessible to clients, while also addressing clinician burnout and the stigma around therapy—particularly in the Black community. Balancing administrative demands with providing high-quality patient care is another ongoing challenge.
At the same time, there are exciting opportunities to expand supervision and training programs, develop faith-integrated therapy models, and raise awareness of mental health needs. I’m also passionate about creating and publishing educational resources that help normalize therapy, especially in underserved communities.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are faith, integrity, compassion, service, and putting purpose over profit. I am deeply committed to uplifting communities and providing ethical, compassionate care to vulnerable populations.
Outside of my professional work, I am passionate about writing, ministry, mentoring clinicians, and supporting underserved communities. I also dedicate time to feeding the unhoused and advocating for emotional healing and spiritual wellness.