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.

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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. 

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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. Training TF-CBT and EMDR. 

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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.