Our Story
We are on a mission to destigmatize and demystify mental healthcare for Black women and families.
More than half a million Black women give birth each year in the U.S., while a majority of new and expectant families are disproportionately impacted by maternal mortality and transitioning into parenthood largely unsupported at a time when they need it most.
At Candlelit, we know you deserve better. That’s why we’re building a new standard of care rooted in cultural competence, evidence-based therapy and technology. Our team includes perinatal-trained mental health providers, health equity advocates and clinical advisors from the nation’s leading medical institutions brought together to reduce health disparities among Black women and families.
Our Story
Candlelit was founded in August 2017 after our founder became a pregnant a few weeks after tying the knot. Immediately after childbirth, she dealt with pre-eclampsia and depressive symptoms that she didn’t know how to handle. Whether you’re thinking about having kids, currently pregnant or recovering from childbirth, it’s hard to find time, energy or space to practice self-care. You might not know where to start your search for self-care routines to incorporate into your day or how to find support outside of family. As a Black-owned, female-first company, we’re committed to elevating voices of Black women. We’re here to lift you up and help light your flame throughout your pregnancy and your little one’s early years.
Meet Our Team
Lauren Elliott, MA, MHFA
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Lauren is an experienced public health professional, researcher and trained journalist with over 10 years of experience in strategic communications, integrated marketing and media. She had to quickly become an advocate for her mental health and well-being after an emergency delivery of her son and now dedicates her time to being the much-needed advocate for all moms at-risk of complications during pregnancy and after childbirth. She founded Candlelit Therapy to serve as a safe space where Black mothers could receive better behavioral healthcare options, treatment and resources.
Ivie Igbeare
Social Media Strategist
Pooja Umathe, MS
Data Scientist
Nicole Gathany, MPH
Backend Software Engineer
Tara Worrell
Backend Software Engineer
Nana Kwame Acheampong
Frontend Software Engineer
Meet Our Clinical Advisors
Dr. Anica Camela Mulzac, PsyD
Clinical Psychologist, Founder of Race (+) Positive
Dr. Adanna Anyikam, MPH, FACOG
OB-GYN, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist for High Risk Pregnancies at HCA Houston Healthcare Tomball
Rashida Bobb, MPH
Managing Director at Bricks Health