CEO & FOUNDER
Casondra Burkley is the CEO and Founder of Conquering the Obstacles of Painful Experiences (C.O.P.E.), a behavioral health organization that transforms trauma into triumph through therapy, life skills training, emotional intelligence programs, and faith-based empowerment. A survivor of childhood poverty, a single-parent household, and high school rape, Casondra’s rape kit sat untested for over 10 years, buried in a backlog like far too many others. That injustice—and the pain it carried—became the foundation of her life’s mission: to ensure others don’t suffer in silence.
She is a living example of C.O.P.E.’s purpose, showing that with the right support, healing is not only possible—it’s powerful. She truly uses life's obstalces as stepping stones to greatnes.
Casondra holds degrees in Psychology, Speech Communications, and Social Work from Baylor University, and a Master of Divinity from George W. Truett Theological Seminary. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor (LCSW-S), Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (LSSGB), and Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist (ADS) with more than 18 years of experience. Her trauma-informed programs serve youth in foster care, low-income communities, and organizations across Texas through Mental Health Rehabilitation, Targeted Case Management, and her signature Emotional Intelligence Program.
An ordained pastor, Casondra brings a unique blend of clinical and spiritual care. She has led retreats, conferences, and workshops for businesses, nonprofits, and churches—equipping individuals and organizations to overcome internal barriers, improve emotional wellness, and rebuild trust after adversity.
She is also the creator of C.O.P.E. Cards, a therapeutic tool designed to prompt deep, healing conversations. Her creative storytelling shines through Don’t Wanna Miss Productions, where she shares original stage plays like A Change is Gonna Come—which earned her “Casondra Brown Day” by the Mayor of Waco—and Case Closed, her autobiographical play soon to become a feature film.
In addition to being a published author, poet, and international speaker, Casondra actively serves through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., sits on advisory boards, and volunteers with Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice. Her business has earned national recognition, including the Comcast RISE Grant (2024) and Status of Women Voice of Strength Honoree (2025).
Casondra Burkley’s story is not just one of survival—it’s a blueprint for hope. Through her voice, her programs, and her platforms, she empowers others to conquer what once held them back and to walk boldly into their healing.
C.O.P.E. Inc. Mission
C.O.P.E. Inc., was created to offer guidance, support, teach coping skills, foster emotional development, counsel, empower and encourage children, youth and adults who have experienced obstacles from painful or traumatic life experiences.
C.O.P.E. Inc. Vision
C.O.P.E. Inc., exists to help others take what seemed to be a negative obstacle in life, to use it as a stepping stone to greatness.
C.O.P.E. Inc. Vision
Get to know your therapist.....
I’m Aryan Williams, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Texas. I specialize in therapy for children, adolescents, and families, drawing on a solid educational background and diverse professional experience. Aryan Williams received her bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville State University in Social Work and received her master's degree in social work from The University of Georgia. She has experience as a, School Social Worker, Medical Social Worker, and Group Therapy Facilitator using different treatment modalities.
I provide a safe, supportive space and use evidence-based practices tailored to individual needs. My goal is to empower clients by building on their strengths and fostering resilience. In addition to their clinical work, I am committed to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.
Outside of my practice, I enjoy traveling, shopping, being a foodie, and spending time with family and friends which help them maintain a balanced and fulfilling life. I believe in the importance of self-care and strive to empower their clients to find their own paths to wellness and resilience.
Get to know your therapist.....
Sharlyn McGary, M.Ed., LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, women, and families. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston–Clear Lake in 2004 and her Master of Education in Counseling and Development from Lamar University in 2023.
Her passion for helping others was shaped by her own journey of overcoming obstacles in childhood, which taught her the importance of resilience, compassion, and creating safe spaces for growth. In addition to her counseling work, Sharlyn founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting children with opportunities that help them see beyond their current circumstances and envision brighter futures.
In therapy, Sharlyn provides a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment where clients feel seen, understood, and empowered to heal. She believes that meaningful change begins with hope—and the courage to take the first step.
Professional Development
TF-CBT Trained
EMDR Trained
Prepare-Enrich Facilitator
Texas CANS 2.0 Certified
Affiliations
Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice
License
Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor Texas, #50346