Her Story
About Emelia
Emelia French is a licensed therapist and the owner of Oasis Counseling Center in Fairfield, Ohio, where she has operated her private practice since 2019. With a career in mental health that began in 2012, she brings extensive experience in trauma-focused therapy, couples counseling, family therapy, substance abuse treatment, and community mental health. As an LPCCS, French provides clinical care while also supervising clinicians and overseeing the administrative responsibilities of her practice.
Born and raised in Ghana, West Africa, Emelia initially came to the United States with aspirations of attending medical school. During her undergraduate studies, however, she discovered a passion for psychology and social work that ultimately shaped her professional path. She earned her bachelor's degree in social work from the University at Buffalo in New York and a master's degree in Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling from Xavier University in Ohio, where she was recognized for academic excellence through induction into an honor society. Her career has included roles with Hamilton Choices, Talbert House, and Access Counseling Services, where she supported individuals and families facing complex challenges.
Throughout her career, Emelia has remained committed to helping people refocus on their individual desires, recognize their potential, and build more meaningful lives. She is particularly passionate about trauma work, couples counseling, life challenges, and serving underserved communities, including providing pro bono services to low-income clients. She credits hard work, mentors, and supportive colleagues as important influences on her journey and approaches both her professional and personal life with transparency, honesty, compassion, and a commitment to leading with the heart.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Emelia
01What do you attribute your success to?
Hard work and being lucky to have met amazing supportive people throughout my journey in education, friendships, and professional environment who lined up to support me. Showing up in places and the universe lining people to support me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Whatever you choose to do, do your best and do it well. It came from my mother. I don't believe in half doing anything. When choosing things they're usually intentional. I'm very dedicated and go all the way even if failing to see the outcome.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do your own work on yourself. Be prepared to not make money if you're in it for money that's not a thing. Lead with your heart, dive in, do the work, work on yourself, and keep an open heart. The monetary gain is just a byproduct.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges with health insurances and their policies around mental health services and the current administration rewriting how we seek help. But encouraged because we are resilient people who find a way to be okay.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Transparency and honesty. It starts with the self. Being honest about struggles to get the right help. Being vulnerable and showing that to the outside. Being transparent.
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