Introduction

As we observe Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, we shine a light on the exceptional individuals making significant strides in mental health care. Today, we are thrilled to introduce Dr. LaNail R. Plummer, a pioneering leader in the mental health field and the visionary CEO of Onyx Therapy Group. With over 18 years of experience, Dr. Plummer has dedicated her life to improving the mental health and well-being of young women, the Black community, and the LGBTQ+ community. Her unique experiences as a United States Military Veteran, an educator, and a mother bring a deeply personal touch to her practice, making a profound impact on countless lives. At Health in Her HUE (HIHH), we believe in highlighting such inspiring figures to encourage a broader understanding and appreciation of mental health care. 

Dr. LaNail R. Plummer’s Journey

Tell us about your journey into healthcare and what inspired you to specialize in your current field.

Dr. Plummer’s journey into healthcare is not just a professional narrative but a deeply personal story that resonates with many in our community. She shares, “My journey into healthcare started from a very personal place. I was born in 1980 in Los Angeles to a strong and determined mother who struggled with substance use and a father who joined the Army to escape gang violence. As a child, I was curious about how people made decisions—why some seemed to thrive while others struggled. This curiosity eventually led me to psychology.”

Her story reflects the complex intersections of personal experiences and professional aspirations, a theme that is common among many healthcare providers of color who work tirelessly to give back to their communities. Dr. Plummer’s path through Howard University and counseling highlights the importance of early intervention and the powerful impact it can have on young lives. She states, “I discovered counseling, a field that focuses on individual mental health and wellness. I realized that early intervention could empower children with the skills they need to navigate life confidently. So, after earning my BA at Howard, I immediately pursued my M.Ed. My career began with counseling children, believing that helping them early would set them up for lifelong success. This path allowed me to support not just the children but their families as well, fostering healthier dynamics and empowering entire communities.”

How do you integrate cultural sensitivity into your practice, and why do you believe it’s essential in healthcare?

At HIHH, we believe that cultural sensitivity is not just an add-on in healthcare–it’s fundamental. Dr. Plummer’s insights into this are profound. She explains, “Cultural sensitivity is the cornerstone of my practice. I believe that one’s culture—including race, gender, sexual identity, socioeconomic status, education, and family dynamics—shapes how they perceive and interact with the world. Therefore, it’s crucial to include cultural conversations in therapy. Many cultural influences are so deeply ingrained that clients may not even realize their impact. Therapy offers a space for clients to become aware of these influences and make informed decisions about which cultural aspects they wish to embrace or change.

Her approach at Onyx Therapy Group, where the team predominantly consists of Black women who bring their cultural intersections into the therapeutic space, reflects a deep understanding of the need for relatability and validation in therapy. From Dr. Plummer’s perspective, “Traditional mental health models emphasize objectivity, but this can feel alienating for marginalized communities. Instead, our clients seek relatability and validation. By acknowledging and incorporating cultural nuances, we walk alongside our clients on their healing journeys, fully seeing and supporting them in all their dynamic dimensions.”

What are some of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had working with patients, particularly within our community?

The rewards of working in mental health are often found in the transformative moments shared with clients. Dr. Plummer shares, “Over nearly 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, from toddlers to retirees. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the ‘aha’ moments when clients achieve therapeutic breakthroughs. Seeing their faces light up with the realization that they have the power to transform their lives is indescribable. Each ‘aha’ moment is a testament to their resilience and my role in supporting their journey to wellness.”

These ‘aha’ moments are not just milestones for the clients but also for the providers who guide them. At HIHH, we celebrate these moments as victories for the entire community, demonstrating the resilience and potential within every woman of color. Dr. Plummer’s ability to facilitate these breakthroughs is a testament to her skill, empathy, and dedication.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to take charge of their health, particularly within our community?

Taking charge of one’s health, especially mental health, can be a daunting task. Dr. Plummer’s advice is both empowering and practical. She advises, “My advice is simple: just do it. All the barriers we perceive, especially regarding mental health, have solutions. It’s not always easy, and the journey can be challenging, but the rewards are immense. Good mental health makes everything look brighter. The journey might start tough, but it leads to profound improvements in life quality. Remember, we deserve the best. Taking charge of your health is a powerful act of self-love and fulfillment—it’s about being ‘our ancestor’s wildest dreams.’ So start now, and don’t give up.”

Her words echo a sentiment that is at the core of Health in Her HUE’s mission: empowering women of color to take back control of their health and well-being. This advice serves as a reminder to us all that mental health is a journey worth embarking on, with rewards that extend far beyond the individual to the community as a whole. 

Conclusion

Dr. LaNail R. Plummer’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and profound impact. Her commitment to culturally sensitive mental health care has transformed countless lives, offering a beacon of hope and empowerment to those she serves. At Health in Her HUE, we are honored to spotlight such a remarkable provider whose work aligns so closely with our mission to support and uplift women in minority communities. To learn more about Dr. Plummer or to schedule a consultation, visit her profile on the Health In Her Hue provider directory. Through her work, Dr. Plummer continues to inspire and improve the mental health and well-being of our community, one person at a time.