Black Social Workers Who Rock ✊🏽 | Earl Martin, LCSW

As we close out Social Work Month, Dr. Smith sits down with Earl Martin, LCSW, to discuss his journey into the field. Earl C. Martin Jr., MSW, LCSW, is a licensed clinical therapist and podcaster, utilizing the mental health field to live his passion of aiding individuals to live their best lives in the state of North Carolina. He is the owner and creator of Innate Virtue Counseling, PLLC and the creator of 26 Affirmations for Boys of Color card deck. Understanding the importance of self-discovery and the journey to happiness, Earl strives to aid those achieve the best version of themselves by enhancing their skills to break through their barriers. With his passion and background in helping individuals deal with traumatic experiences, particularly those who are in the African American community and LGBTQIA+ community, Earl truly believes each person has the innate potential to achieve their full healthy selves. Earl has been working in the human services and mental health field for six years, and recognizes that each individual's story is uniquely their own and that their healthiest selves can be achieved. Earl's approach to therapy is a combination of experiential, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative theory, solution-focused, mindfulness, and empowerment. In addition to trauma focused therapy, Earl has experience in working with anxiety, domestic violence, depression, stigma, marginalized groups, and family issues in an individual, family, and group setting. Earl received his Master of Social Work and B.A. in Psychology degree from Winthrop University, where his studies focused on empowerment, racial inequities/microaggression experiences, and African American youth who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning. Outside of work, Earl enjoys traveling, hiking, playing tennis, and exploring new restaurants and activities in the beautiful city of Charlotte. Earl also co-hosts the "Hats Off Podcast" which is centered on removing the stigma of mental health in the community. IG: @earlmartinlcsw