Dr. Leeshe N. Grimes is a distinguished mental health professional, holding multiple credentials including Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT), and Psychotherapist. She is also a Maryland Board-approved supervisor and a relentless advocate for mental health accessibility, particularly for marginalized communities.
As the CEO and Founder of Elevated Minds, a leading mental health practice in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area, Dr. Grimes is committed to breaking down barriers to care and ensuring that mental health services are available regardless of socioeconomic status.
A retired combat veteran from the United States Army, Dr. Grimes brings exceptional leadership and lived experience to her work. She served on the Health Equity and Policy Commission for the Maryland Department of Health, for two terms. Additionally, she is the Bylaws Chair and Conference Chair for the Maryland Counseling Association branch, reinforcing her dedication to structural and policy-driven change. She also currently serves on the Board of Directors
for The Black Clinicians in Play Therapy under the Association for Play Therapy
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, Dr. Grimes specializes in individual, family, and group therapy, utilizing diverse, culturally responsive treatment modalities. She is deeply committed to dismantling mental health disparities affecting low-income Black and Brown communities, formerly incarcerated individuals, and military personnel. Through advocacy, strategic partnerships, and community outreach, she actively works to expand access to quality mental health care for those who are often overlooked by traditional healthcare systems.
Dr. Grimes earned her B.A. in Psychology from Hawaii Pacific University, followed by an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Certification in Play Therapy, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Capella University. She is an active member of several esteemed professional organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the American Counseling Association (ACA), the American Psychological Association (APA), the Association for Counselor Education & Supervision (ACES), and the Association for Play Therapy (APT).
Her research and professional interests focus on the misdiagnosis of Black children in mental health, cultural competence in therapeutic practices, and addressing mental health disparities within military and underserved populations. Dr. Grimes is a tireless advocate for dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly within the Black community, and she champions human rights and health equity initiatives.
Dr. Grimes is also a published author, writing and curating impactful works that explore mental health through cultural, clinical, and personal lenses. Her publications include therapeutic journals, children’s mental health workbooks, and affirming guides for communities often left out of mainstream mental health resources. Through her writing, she provides healing tools, practical support, and culturally grounded empowerment for readers of all ages.
As a celebrated change agent in mental health, Dr. Grimes is known for her powerful presentations, thought leadership, and commitment to action. She has received national and global recognition, earning a place in Who’s Who in America and being featured in prestigious publications such as Forbes, NYC Journal 50 Under 50, Yahoo, Disruptors Magazine, and Global Health Practitioner.
In 2025, she was honored with the Best Holistic Mental Health Care Provider National Capital Region (USA) and the Culturally Inclusive Wellness Excellence Award, recognizing her innovative and inclusive approach to community healing.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Grimes is a champion for holistic wellness and the proud owner of Profusion Gym in the DMV area, emphasizing the connection between physical and mental well-being. Her multifaceted approach to healing and empowerment reflects her unwavering dedication to ensuring mental health care is not a privilege but a right for all individuals regardless of race, background, or financial means.
Through Elevated Minds, community outreach, authorship, and policy-driven initiatives, Dr. Grimes continues to lead the charge in ensuring equitable mental health care and advocating for those who have long been underserved and unheard.
