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Meet the Team

"It is truly so good to see you."

If you’re a teenager and you’re reading this because your parents "highly suggested" you talk to someone—I get it. Walking into a therapy office can feel like a chore, a test, or just plain awkward.

When you sit across from me, the first thing I want you to feel is that my smile is real. I’m not here to "fix" you or lecture you. I am genuinely happy to meet you, to learn your story, and to see the world through your eyes.

Why I Do This (The "Rooted" Story)

My journey to becoming Dr. Tinai James wasn't easy. In my PhD program, I was the only Black woman in the room. There were days I felt invisible, days I didn't feel "good enough," and days I almost walked away from it all.

What saved me? Representation. I found a Black female therapist who became my mentor, followed by two more incredible Black women who reminded me why I started this journey. I realized that the world needed psychologists who looked like the kids they were serving. I stayed so that you would never have to wonder if there was a space in mental health where you truly belonged.

The "Relevant" Side of the Office

I believe that therapy works best when it feels like real life. That’s why my Culture-First approach isn’t just a tagline—it’s how I live.

  • If I’m not in the office: I’m probably in my kitchen dancing while I cook or attempting a viral TikTok dance with my friends (and usually laughing at myself in the process).

  • My Secret Clinical Tool: Don't be surprised if we break out Just Dance on YouTube. Sometimes the best breakthroughs happen when we’re moving, laughing, and just being human.

  • The Vibe: I show up in my lemonade braids or Afro puffs and my Nikes because I want you to know that "professional" doesn't have to mean "stiff."

Experience Change: The Brave Space

Using the RCB Framework, I combine the "Roots" of my clinical training with the "Relevance" of your world. Together, we build a Brave Space where you can stop code-switching and start growing.

I’ve fought hard to be in this position so that I can be the person you see yourself in. I’m ready to keep fighting for you.

Professional Head Shot

Founder & Clinical Director
Dr. Tinai James, Ph.D.

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Psychological Associate
Dr. Taylor Joi Ly, Psy.D.

Dr. Taylor Joi Ly is a Clinical Forensic Psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally responsive, and evidence-based psychological services. She believes that healing begins with feeling heard, understood, and empowered. Her goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore life’s challenges, build resilience, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.

 

Dr. Ly earned her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology after completing her undergraduate studies at Clark Atlanta University. Her clinical training and professional experience include psychological assessment, behavioral health, trauma-informed care, and working with individuals experiencing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and psychological concerns.

 

Her areas of interest include trauma and recovery, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, stress management, intimate partner violence, and forensic psychology. She is also passionate about supporting parents and caregivers, particularly families navigating developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and complex behavioral needs.

 

Dr. Ly approaches treatment from an integrative perspective, tailoring therapy to each client’s unique strengths, experiences, and goals. She incorporates evidence-based interventions while recognizing the importance of culture, family systems, spirituality, and personal values in the healing process. She believes therapy is a collaborative partnership built on trust, authenticity, and mutual respect.

 

In addition to psychotherapy, Dr. Ly has extensive experience conducting comprehensive psychological evaluations and assessments to help clarify diagnoses, identify strengths, and guide treatment planning. She is committed to providing thorough, ethical, and individualized evaluations that support clients, families, healthcare providers, and community partners.

 

Whether you are seeking support during a difficult season, working through trauma, pursuing personal growth, or searching for answers through psychological assessment, Dr. Ly is committed to walking alongside you with empathy, professionalism, and clinical excellence.

 

Philosophy of Care

 

“Every person has a story worth hearing and a future worth investing in. My role is not to define who you are, but to help you discover your strengths, overcome barriers, and build the life you envision.”

© 2026 Rooted & Relevant Psychological Services, a division of Dr. Tinai James PhD, LLC.

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