A dedicated clinician, social worker, and advocate, Tonia Deese has worked with individuals, communities, and organizations to create positive outcomes for over 15 years. Currently a Clinical Assistant Professor at UNC-Chapel Hill School of Social Work, Tonia is also the owner of Full Circle Wellness, PLLC, an outpatient mental health practice in Charlotte, NC.

Utilizing a clinical approach that is strengths focused and evidenced-based, Tonia specializes in working with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and loss. Passionate about helping people heal in mind, body, and spirit, Tonia enjoys providing Christian counseling as faith has been an important part of her own healing.

An expert trainer on a variety of topics such as primary and secondary trauma, generational trauma and historical trauma, Tonia has delivered presentations throughout the country for a variety of partners. Tonia obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree, Master of Social Work degree, and certificate in Non-profit Management from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.