meet our practitioners
Veronica Clanton-Higgins, MSw, clc
Founder/ Lead Wellness Practitioner
Areas of Expertise: Trauma-Informed Practices, Mood Disorders, Mental Health Consulting, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Personal Development, Life & Sexuality Coaching, Mindfulness
Veronica Clanton-Higgins is a Mental Health Equity Consultant, and the CEO of VCH Prosperity Consulting LLC. As a native of Compton, CA, she is deeply rooted in the community she serves, passionately advocating for mental health equity and wellness, particularly for Black and Brown populations. Her professional journey is shaped by a combination of academic achievements, clinical expertise, and community-driven initiatives that focus on addressing mental health disparities in underserved communities.
Veronica is a Registered Associate Clinical Social Work, providing clinical services as a therapist for Chapman University. She received her Bachelors in Sociology, with a minor in Psychology, from California State University, Dominguez Hills and her Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California. Currently, she is completing her PhD in Clinical Sexology. Trained in various modalities, Veronica uses an eclectic approach to clinical care which includes mindfulness-based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma focused interventions. As a certified life and sexuality coach, Veronica uses her skills to help clients with improving their sense of self and developing skills that help with daily life functioning.
Veronica’s passion for uplifting her community led her to establish the Compton Wellness Collective (CWC), a social impact organization of VCH Prosperity Consulting. The Compton Wellness Collective is a collaborative network of Black and Brown healers, united to provide holistic wellness services to dis-enfranchised populations. In 2024, she furthered her commitment to community well-being by opening the Compton Wellness Center, offering culturally appropriate and accessible services. This Center serves as a hub for mental, emotional, and socio-emotional wellness, addressing the pressing need for care .
Her work has garnered widespread recognition, including prestigious awards such as the BEYGood Black Parade award and the Black Professionals Mental Health Maven award, both acknowledging her trailblazing efforts in mental health advocacy. Additionally, she has been honored with the Compton Champion award from the City of Compton, the Women’s Leadership award from the California State Assembly, 64th District, and the Community Humanitarian of the Year award from Children Striving Together.
Beyond her work with the CWC, Veronica has a long history of leadership and service in her community. She currently serves as a member of the CA 64th Assembly District Women’s Commission. Her previous roles include consulting as the Mental Health & Wellness Director for the Yetunde Price Resource Center, Associate Director of the Compton Advocates Coalition and sitting on the board of the Compton Girls Club. Veronica also founded TEDxComptonBlvd and the Intentional Healing Podcast, both established to reframe the narrative of Compton by highlighting the community’ members voices, strengths and potential.
Through her professional and community endeavors, Veronica continues to make strides in “healing the hood,” offering innovative and accessible approaches to wellness. Her unwavering commitment to equity, and community empowerment remains at the heart of her work, and she is dedicated to fostering resilience, healing, and transformation in the lives of the individuals she serves.
Personal Mantra: “Your words have power, use them to heal not to harm.”
Why did I start the collective? “To address socio-emotional wellness needs on a larger scale with individuals who are experts in their field.”
Sharrica Miller, pHD, RN
Wellness Practitioner/Foster Youth Advocate
Areas of Expertise: Trauma, Wellness, Physical Well-Being, Coping Strategies, and Anxiety.
Sharrica Miller, PhD, RN, is a distinguished pediatric nurse practitioner, renowned speaker, and advocate whose journey from foster care to esteemed scholar inspires audiences worldwide. A TEDxComptonBlvd speaker with her compelling talk, “Inside Ourselves: How to Stop Waiting for Someone to Save Us,” Dr. Miller candidly shares her harrowing childhood experiences, empowering others to overcome adversity.
Enduring 12 years in foster care, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Howard University. With over 18 years of nursing experience, including pediatrics, palliative care, and hospice, she pursued advanced education, culminating in a PhD from UCLA in 2017. Recognized as 1 of 5 Johnson & Johnson’s Minority Nurse Faculty Scholars for 2 consecutive years, she embodies academic excellence.
Despite challenges like homelessness, Dr. Miller’s determination earned accolades such as the 2019 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award at Cal State Fullerton and the 2021 Casey Family Foundation Foster Youth Alumni Award.
Her documentary “Still Waters Never Crash,” and memoir, “Verses: Lessons Learned from Foster Care,” offer poignant insights. Currently on the tenure track and Chair of Diversity & Student Engagement at Cal State Fullerton, she leads initiatives promoting inclusivity & equity, including a $2.2 million federal workforce diversity grant.
As a sought-after speaker and consultant, Dr. Miller advocates to amplify awareness of issues affecting foster youth and other marginalized populations. Follow Sharrica on Instagram @docmillerspeaks.
Personal Mantra: “Either change your situation, or change your perspective.”
Why did I join the collective? “As a Compton native who grew up in foster care, I joined the CWC so that I could give back to the community that gave so much to me. I am blessed to have the opportunity to work beside a dynamic team of practitioners and feel honored to serve youth who are in the position I once was.“
Ayisha Winn, MSW, LCSW
Mental Health Wellness Practitioner
Provides Mental Health Care
Areas of Expertise: Developing and Utilization of Coping Skills/Techniques, Mindfulness Techniques, Anxiety-Related Disorders, Depression/Trauma, Self-Harm, Relational Issues, and Body image and Self-Esteem Issues
Ayisha Winn, who hails from Compton, California, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, renowned for her extensive clinical experience. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work, with a Mental Health concentration, from California State University, Long Beach, in 2013. Ayisha’s professional journey encompasses diverse roles, including crisis and intensive programs for children, teens, and families in community mental health settings, as well as providing clinical support to the adult population facing mental health and medical-related adjustment conditions in medical clinic settings and private practice.
With a broad spectrum of experience, Ayisha has effectively worked with clients aged 5 through 70. Her commitment lies in delivering exceptional clinical care, utilizing creative intervention strategies, empathy, and creating a safe space for her clients. She is dedicated to establishing lasting and impactful therapeutic alliances with those she works with. Ayisha employs healthy and effective problem-solving strategies, critical thinking skills, and solution-focused therapy techniques.Ayisha’s approach is characterized by her energy, positive attitude, non-judgmental demeanor, active listening skills, motivation, passion, and insightful support.
These qualities contribute to creating a comfortable and supportive environment for clients under her care, enabling them to embark on their treatment journey with confidence.
Why did I join the collective? “My passion for my community, culture and women’s empowerment drove me to join this organization. Growing up in a community where mental health is not always focused on, or resources are not always readily available, inspired me to be a part of the solution. I am excited to be on the ground level of such a monumental initiative.”
Ayana Shepherd, LCSW
Provides Mental Health Support
Area of Expertise: Youth Services, Self-Care and Group Psycho-education, Women Empowerment
Ayana Shepherd is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the human services field for over 20 years with varying populations. Individuals that she has supported over the years include, at-risk youth, individuals in recovery, individuals with special needs, and individuals who have experienced trauma related to sexual assault.
Ayana obtained her bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University in English with a Minor in Child and Family Development. As she began working with children in educational settings as an undergraduate, she recognized that she could be an educator and support youth in other ways outside of a classroom environment. It was her employment at a residential facility where her budding interest in social work began. After working and volunteering within multiple facets and with varying populations (at-risk youth, substance abuse and persons with developmental disabilities) within the social work realm, she went back to school to obtain her Masters in Social Work. Since obtaining her MSW, she has provided group therapy to youth in a residential setting, coordinates support services for individuals with developmental disabilities and provides training to professionals who collaborate with individuals with developmental disabilities where they work and live.
With over 20 years of experience in social services and a life committed to helping others, she recognizes the importance of taking care of yourself and being intentional in this daily task. To maintain longevity and health in a profession that is equally as rewarding as it is demanding, she understands that self-care is a necessity and hence began “Self-Care Advocacy” as a passion project to encourage people to routinely engage in self-care. Self-Care Advocacy has since blossomed into an entrepreneur endeavor that provides education, resources and community connection for women evolving in their journey to better taking care of themselves. In 2020 she published Free Your Mind: A Self-Care and Mindfulness Activity Book to promote convenient practical ways that individuals can engage in self-care.
Ayana Shepherd is the Co-Founder of B2B Support Services (Blessed to Be a Blessing) which is a nonprofit organization that provides support to individuals in the inner city of Los Angeles County such as Compton, Watts and South Central Los Angeles. In all facets of her work, she stresses the importance of self-care in order to promote balance, self-love, confidence, and overall well-being.
Personal Mantra: “All things work together for good” – Romans 8:28.
Why did I join the collective? “I joined the collective because the founder’s energy and passion to serve exuded with minimal effort. Veronica’s intentions to help heal the City of Compton were apparent. Additionally, I joined The collective because I understand the value in collaboration and the importance of relatable and shared experience when working with people that look like me and are from where I am from. Like Veronica, I desire to provide the City of Compton with access to resources that will improve the well being of both individuals and the city.”
Meghan Shamburger, dmft, lmft
Mental Health Practitioner
Provides Mental Health Care
Area of Expertise: Individual Complex Trauma and Couples Trauma Work, Specialized Training: Internal Family Systems, Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Attachment Therapy
Meghan Shamburger, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is deeply committed to supporting individuals on their healing journey by providing a secure space to process trauma. With a passion for empowering clients to embrace their true selves, Meghan believes that unhealed trauma can hinder personal growth, causing individuals to navigate life with uncertainty and a fragile sense of self.
Specializing in working with couples, Meghan focuses on those with past traumas that impact their ability to securely attach to one another. Her current client base spans a diverse range, including trauma survivors, families, and couples of all ages. Meghan’s decision to become a therapist stems from her own experiences of childhood and adolescent trauma, fostering a genuine understanding of the challenges related to attachment, expressing emotions, and embracing one’s identity.
Meghan’s therapeutic approach emphasizes empowerment rather than quick fixes. She sees therapy as a tool to prepare clients to live and experience life fully, acknowledging both its positive and challenging aspects. True healing and emotional health, in Meghan’s perspective, involve embracing the full spectrum of emotions, rather than avoiding sadness or anger.
Beyond her therapy practice, Meghan serves as the Principal of a private Preschool-8th grade school, providing valuable insights into the stressors faced by educators, parents, and students. Additionally, she hosts the podcast “Hot Chocolate Chats,” dedicated to conversations about love, life, and mental health. Committed to destigmatizing mental health in minority communities, Meghan actively engages in psychoeducation through her social media presence, speaking engagements, volunteer opportunities, and collaboration with the Compton Wellness Collective.
Personal Mantra: ”You have to make a choice in life. Would you rather tiptoe through it or walk heavy in all that you were meant to be?”
Why did you join the collective? “I joined the collective because I believe in its vision as a Compton girl who loves mental health! I want to bring healing to my city in any way possible and the CWC provides not only a method to do this but empowering leadership and camaraderie from women I aspire to be like that!”
Brittany Pollard, BS
Sound/Energy Practitioner
Operations Director
Area of Expertise: Mindfulness Meditation, Sound Healing, Trauma Informed Wellness, Life Coaching, Nutrition, Fitness, Program Operations, Project Management.
Brittany Pollard is a wellness practitioner, meditation facilitator, and the founder of “Our Wildest Dreams”. With a passion for holistic well-being, she guides individuals in mindfulness and meditation, fostering a deeper connection between mind, body, and spirit. As the visionary behind Our Wildest Dreams, Brittany helps people craft and achieve their life visions, promoting intentional and purpose-driven living.
Brittany’s expertise extends across a 15-year career in wellness, first obtaining her B.S. in Psychology from California State University, Northridge, and from there she has worked to guide clients through trauma-informed life coaching, breathwork, meditation, and fitness & nutrition. Brittany is also a highly skilled program operations consultant and project manager for online wellness companies and has helped thousands of people around the world. Her multifaceted approach addresses the diverse needs of her clients, fostering healing and personal growth on multiple levels. Brittany is not only a practitioner but a compassionate guide, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.
Brittany Pollard’s mission is clear: she is on a quest to help people awaken their inner visionary and connection to their bodies.
Through her diverse skill set, genuine empathy, and commitment to personal transformation, Brittany guides individuals towards a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. In every interaction and endeavor, she strives to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and embrace the limitless possibilities of their wildest dreams.
Personal Quote/Mantra: “How are you feeding your spirit?”
Why did I join the collective? “I️ joined the Compton Wellness Collective because community healing is a core value of mine. Being in the wellness industry for so long I️ have come to understand that WE are the light WE need, especially in cities like Compton. When you become an active participant in your city, you see beyond the issues. You see the possibility. You start to dream and act on the solutions because in your heart, you understand the collective needs. Each person on this team is so skilled, talented, and intentional. I️ am grateful and excited to be here.”
Carmen Tanner, BS
Creative Healing Practitioner
Area of Expertise: All things creative, Project Management, Business Management
Carmen Tanner is a self-taught artist with a creative nature, who aspires to be the light in and around her community. Creativity is her fuel, and she uses it in all aspects of her life. One of her goals is to show people that despite age or ability there is an artist within all of us. Life is full of ups and downs, and she uses creativity and art as the navigation to sometimes, just get through. She believes that creativity should not only be encouraged but applauded in our youth because without creativity there can be no innovation.
As Owner of and self-proclaimed “Creative Engineer” at DragunfliDesignz, she curates art for all and provides avenues for creative expression despite any and all demographics. At DragunfliDesignz, we offer paint instruction in a fun and relatable setting both online and in-person. We also create pre-drawn canvases and kits for mindfulness and anti-anxiety activities. Essentially, we use art as a way to not only celebrate life but to live it completely.
She is the Co-Owner of DejahDesignz, an amazing graphic design firm that she runs with her husband, Joseph Tanner III. She also serves as Program Director/Treasurer on the Board of a Nonprofit organization called The GIRLS Group that serves to empower, inspire, and motivate African American tween and teen girls and women who are or have been in dysfunctional and/or disadvantaged lifestyles.
Carmen has a BS in business management and a certificate in Small Business & Entrepreneurship. She also has a passion for baking, sewing, and spending quality time with her family.
Personal Quote/Mantra: “Why Not?”
Why did I join the collective? “It is an honor and a privilege to work towards the goals that Veronica has set out for the Compton Wellness Collective. And as a native of the city, I joined so that I can do my part to “heal the hood.”
Kelli Bradwell
Sacred Ceremonies Practitioner
Areas of expertise: Mental Wellness, Self-Care practices, Women’s Empowerment, Curating Safe Spaces.
Kelli Bradwell, based in Los Angeles, California, is a seasoned Reiki practitioner and wellness creator with a focus on curating transformative experiences within group settings. With a career spanning over two decades, Kelli has immersed herself in diverse environments, ranging from community mental health organizations to private retreats, as well as one-on-one client interactions.
Kelli’s professional journey has been dedicated to assisting individuals across the lifespan, extending support from children to older adults, as they navigate a spectrum of concerns and healing endeavors. Her primary commitment is empowering women of color who have experienced trauma, including survivors of domestic violence, childhood abuse, and those affected by suicide-related experiences.
At the core of Kelli’s practice is the establishment of a secure and nurturing therapeutic environment, encouraging participants to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely. She is unwaveringly committed to building a strong alliance based on trust, empathy, and mutual respect.
In addition to conventional methods, Kelli offers a distinctive approach involving her signature Sweet Freedom Sugar Scrub. This intimate ceremony allows participants to engage in self-love rituals, using the power of their words and senses, while delving into their innermost desires and needs.
Through this holistic approach, participants can anticipate reconnecting with their bodies, gaining deeper self-awareness, and viewing their surroundings with newfound clarity. With an unwavering dedication, Kelli Bradwell is honored to guide others on their journey toward healing, self-discovery, and personal freedom.
Personal Quote/Mantra: “Do it afraid!”
Why did I join the collective? “To share my experiences and practices in hopes that anyone who participates will feel empowered to begin their journey to freedom, healing their hearts and building a stronger and more aware community. I am committed to holding emotionally safe spaces and vibration for people to gather, uplift and support each other.”
Joseph Tanner III
Creative Healing Practitioner/IT
Area of Expertise: Merging creativity, technology, and humor for the enrichment of the community.
Joseph is a passionate creative artist who from an early age discovered a love of drawing and taking things apart to learn how they work. Because of his love for technology, he learned how to create art using programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and more. Seeing what was once visualized drawn out, come to life is like a breath of fresh air – and there is nothing like fresh air! Joseph is commited to community service by developing initiatives that combine artistic expression with a tech-savvy mindset to make a positive impact on others, enhancing the health, well-being, and overall resilience of the community.
As Owner of DejahDesignz, a graphic design firm, we seamlessly combine artistic ingenuity with strategic thinking, embrace technology, and consistently exceed client expectations through a collaborative and detail-oriented approach. We push the boundaries of design with fresh, original concepts that captivate and resonate. Our team thinks outside the box to create visually striking and memorable branding, web design, packaging, or print materials to suit diverse client needs.
He is the Co-Owner of DragunfliDesignz with his wife, Carmen Tanner (fellow CWC Practitioner). He also serves as Assistant Director on the Board of a Nonprofit organization called The GIRLS Group that serves to empower, inspire, and motivate African American tween and teen girls and women who are or have been in dysfunctional and/or disadvantaged lifestyles.
Personal Quote/Mantra: “Loving Life and Living It”
Why did I join the collective? “CWC gives me a great opportunity to help the place I call home and beyond”