Dr. Erica L. Givner, DSW, LCSW, EMDR-C

Dr. Erica L. Givner is a visionary social worker, clinician, entrepreneur, and advocate for intergenerational healing who has spent more than 20 years empowering individuals, families, and communities through culturally responsive, trauma-informed care. Her life's work has been dedicated to helping others heal, grow, and thrive while creating greater access to quality mental health services for underserved populations.

A proud veteran, mother, grandmother, and community leader, Dr. Givner's journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to service. From navigating the challenges of young motherhood to building successful businesses and becoming a respected leader in behavioral health, she has consistently transformed obstacles into opportunities for growth and impact. These lived experiences continue to inform her compassionate, authentic, and client-centered approach to healing.

Dr. Givner earned both her Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees from the University of Pittsburgh before completing her Doctorate in Social Work at Simmons University. Throughout her career, she has remained deeply committed to addressing the unique challenges facing Black/African American communities while advocating for equity, wellness, and generational change.

In 2012, she founded A Vision Towards Peace Counseling Services, LLC (VTP), a purpose-driven behavioral health organization rooted in accessibility, healing, and community care. Under her leadership, VTP has become a trusted source of culturally responsive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families throughout the region.

Driven by her passion for holistic wellness, Dr. Givner expanded her vision in 2013 by co-founding A Peace of Mind (APOM) alongside her daughter, Felicia Robinson. APOM was created as a non-traditional therapeutic wellness space designed to foster healing, self-care, and personal growth. The organization continues to evolve and expand its impact through innovative services that support the well-being of individuals and families.

Known for her signature philosophy, "Feelings Aren't Facts," Dr. Givner is recognized for her ability to help individuals navigate life's challenges with clarity, resilience, and hope. Her dedication to the Wilkinsburg community and beyond has earned her numerous honors, including Business Person of the Year, the Blazing Leader Award, Entrepreneur of the Year, 50 Women of Excellence Award, Generational Curse Breaker Award, and induction into the inaugural class of Who's Who in Black Pittsburgh.

Her expertise and insights have been featured in numerous publications, including the Pittsburgh Courier, Soul Pitt, Whirl Magazine, PublicSource, and other media outlets. She has also appeared as an expert guest on The Mel Robbins Show, where she shared her knowledge on trauma, addiction, and mental health.

In addition to her clinical and entrepreneurial accomplishments, Dr. Givner is the founder of Passion Meets the Road, a platform created to recognize and celebrate social service professionals—particularly professionals of color—who dedicate their lives to serving others and strengthening their communities.

Above all, Dr. Givner is guided by her faith, family, and commitment to uplifting others. As a wife, mother of four, and proud grandmother, she credits her family as her foundation, greatest inspiration, and daily motivation. She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Incorporated. Through every role she serves, she strives to inspire hope, encourage resilience, and empower others to recognize their own strength and potential. She remains devoted to creating spaces where healing is possible, communities are strengthened, and future generations are empowered to thrive.

‍Fearless. Faithful. Compassionate. Visionary. Inspiring.

Dr. Givner continues to stand on the frontlines of healing, serving as a source of inspiration and motivation for those around her. Through her leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to community wellness, she embodies excellence in social work while remaining dedicated to her mission of lifting others as she climbs.