East Stroudsburg University has announced that this year’s Black History Month keynote presentation about radical self-care and identity development will be given by Edith King-Lawrence ’12. Her presentation will take place on Wednesday, February 21 at 6 p.m., in Beers Lecture Hall. The event is open to the public at no cost.
Edith King-Lawrence describes herself as a child of God, wife, daughter, sister, friend, and fellow journeyer. In her professional life, she serves as a licensed counselor, author, educator, and speaker. She has a decade of experience in the mental health field specializing in complex trauma, mood disorders, substance use issues, and grief and loss.
As a proud native of Philadelphia, King-Lawrence has navigated numerous economic, social, and environmental challenges. These experiences have endowed her with a unique perspective that enhances the empathy, efficacy, and relatability she brings to her work and various roles. Her faith in God encourages her growth and reinforces her conviction that her choice to overcome can inspire and assist others on their paths.
King-Lawrence earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from East Stroudsburg University and a master’s degree in clinical counseling from Eastern University. Her education led to a career in both public and private sectors, where she has operated from the motto to help heal and serve. In 2020, King-Lawrence founded King Counseling Services, a virtual psychotherapy practice where she provides individual and group counseling.
King-Lawrence’s work has also extended into education and community service in her roles as an adjunct professor at Eastern University and program developer for Black Men Heal. She authored ‘My Peace is Most Important’ in 2020, bringing a message of hope, growth, and healing to individuals who may never sit in her therapy chair. Her roles of speaker and trainer allow her to transform knowledge, wisdom, and lessons into an experience where listeners leave feeling seen, enlightened, and encouraged.
Beyond her professional endeavors, King-Lawrence is passionate about travel, line dancing, discovering new restaurants, and exploring the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She cherishes time with her husband, Brian, and loves to gather with family and friends. Her journey is one of continual growth in awareness, appreciation, and acceptance of where the journey takes her. She has come to understand that none of what she does is of her own, but a tapestry of her experiences and the goodness of God.
For more information about this event contact Ly Fleming, director of ESU’s Center for Multicultural Affairs and Inclusive Education, at (570) 422-3896 or lfleming@esu.edu.