Dr. Bahia Cross (Overton) is a passionate leader, scholar, therapist, and advocate committed to advancing equity, wellness, and cultural empowerment. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, a Master’s in Social Work, and a Ph.D. in Social Work Research, with her doctoral work centered on the lived experiences of African American adolescent girls in foster care.

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Dr. Cross (Overton) has provided therapy and counseling services for more than 25 years. She currently serves as Executive Director of the Black Parent Initiative, a Portland-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting African, African American, and multi-ethnic families. Through programs that promote mental health, cultural identity, and parent education, the organization equips caregivers with the tools to help their children thrive.

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Previously, she served as Director of Equity and Partnerships at the Chalkboard Project, where she worked with educators and school leaders across Oregon to embed equity into instructional and leadership practices. Dr. Overton also serves as Executive Consultant for Joy DeGruy Publications, where she collaborates on research and the development of culturally responsive service models addressing historical trauma.

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In 2005, Dr. Cross (Overton) founded Bahia Honey, a beauty, wellness, and consulting brand that has since grown to serve over 9,000 customers nationwide.

Grounded in her spiritual beliefs as a member of the Bahá’í Faith, Dr. Overton is deeply guided by the principle of the oneness of humanity and brings this vision to all areas of her work.