About: Shakina Coplin joined Fathers’ UpLift in 2021 as an intern and transitioned to becoming a Clinician in 2022. In this role, Shakina assists people of color, usually Fathers, in their healing process while they navigate systems such as the Criminal justice system and The Department of Family Services. As a clinician, Shakina helps men of color overcome mental health and substance use disorders by providing them with individual therapy.
Shakina’s Narrative: “I am from Dorchester, Mass. My college career began at Bunker Hill Community College, where I received my Associate’s in Psychology. I have a B.A. in African Studies and Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Boston. I obtained my Master’s degree in Social Work from Boston University. Over the years, I worked in security while I paid my way through school. I’ve interned/volunteered at several non-profit organizations throughout the years, including Boston Health Care For The Homeless Program, The Dimock Center, The Home For Little Wanderers, and Father’s Uplift. Inc. Working at Father’s Uplift is the start of my career; other than that, I would have to say I am the first person in my immediate family to have a graduate degree.
If you could invite someone to dinner, who would it be? Malcolm X.