Tosha Ellis
Dr. Tosha Ellis, PhD, LCSW, BCD, CMIP, NBC-HWC, is a seasoned clinical leader and public health professional with extensive experience in behavioral health, community health promotion, and whole health system consultation. She brings a strong equity-focused perspective to her work, utilizing culturally informed mindfulness practices, community well-being frameworks, and socially driven health promotion strategies. Throughout her career, she has engaged across public, private, non-profit, and government sectors, applying a biopsychosocial-cultural approach to support health and wellness initiatives at individual and systemic levels.
Currently, Dr. Ellis serves as Vice President of the American Board of Clinical Social Work and as a Health System Specialist with the VHA Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation. She is a President's Management Council Interagency Fellow with experience in federal healthcare and has led initiatives that integrate whole health practices across organizations. Her clinical and leadership expertise extends to public health policy, operational management, and strategic consultation, supporting both individual well-being and organizational effectiveness.
In addition to her professional roles, Dr. Ellis is deeply committed to community engagement and volunteerism. She serves on the board of the American Board of Clinical Social Work, supports local faith communities, mentors Girl Scouts in metropolitan areas, and operates a mental health therapy and wellness coaching practice. Her work reflects a dedication to fostering inclusive, effective, and compassionate care, advancing the fields of social work, public health, and wellness leadership.
• Certified Soldier Coach
• Strategic Healthcare Leadership
• Clark Atlanta University
• Walden University
• American Board of Clinical Social Work
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my long-standing commitment to mental health and wellness. Since my time in the Air Force in 2001, educating airmen about their health and mission readiness, I have been dedicated to helping families and communities prioritize well-being. Earning my PhD in Public Health in 2016 deepened my knowledge and passion, and I take pride in supporting everyone I work with to understand the importance of taking care of themselves.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to lead through influence—focusing on inspiring and guiding others rather than relying solely on authority.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is providing effective consultation to clients that helps them develop both life goals and mental health wellness, ensuring they have the tools and guidance to thrive personally and professionally.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are living mindfully and healthfully, which I express through my love of plant-based recipes and taking time for walks to stay grounded and balanced.