A woman sitting outdoors at a table with a laptop, smiling and wearing a black blazer and white top, with a building and window in the background.

Hi! I’m Renika Witherspoon, Licensed Professional Counselor.

Many Deaf individuals spend years navigating spaces where they feel misunderstood, emotionally unsupported, overlooked, or pressured to constantly adapt just to be accepted. Over time, that kind of survival can impact self-worth, relationships, boundaries, communication, and the ability to fully feel safe being yourself.

If you’ve been searching for a Deaf therapist who understands the Deaf experience beyond surface-level awareness, you’re in the right place.

I was born hearing and became Deaf after an illness during infancy, which shaped the way I experienced communication, identity, relationships, and connection from a very young age. Growing up Deaf gave me firsthand insight into what it feels like to navigate spaces where you are misunderstood, underestimated, or expected to work twice as hard just to feel included. Those experiences deeply influenced both who I am and the kind of therapist I strive to be today.

I provide virtual therapy services in Arkansas, with plans to expand to Texas and additional states in the future. My goal is to create a space where you no longer feel pressured to perform, over-explain yourself, or carry everything alone. Therapy with me is about helping you unpack the things you’ve had to survive in silence while reconnecting with the version of yourself beneath the mask.

I began working in the mental health field in 2021, first supporting Deaf students before transitioning into inpatient mental health care while completing my clinical training. Working closely with Deaf children and teenagers deepened my understanding of trauma, language deprivation, identity, and generational patterns within Deaf communities.

As a Black, Deaf therapist, I understand how meaningful it can feel to finally exist in a space where you do not have to constantly translate yourself just to be understood.

Healing looks different when you no longer have to shrink, explain, or mask who you are.

Meet Renika, Founder of Signed & Secure Counseling

Core Values

Emotional Safety

Creating a space where clients feel respected, supported, and safe enough to show up honestly.

Authenticity 

Encouraging honesty, vulnerability, and genuine self-expression without judgment.

Connection

Believing healing and growth happen through meaningful relationships and human connection.

You are safe here. You can be real here. You do not have to heal alone.

My Mission

My mission is to create a safe, affirming, and compassionate space where individuals and couples feel empowered to heal, grow, and build healthier, more secure relationships with themselves and others.

A woman with long black hair, makeup, and jewelry, sitting at a table using a laptop in a colorful cafe or restaurant with green walls, floral artwork, and gray chairs.

What Makes Signed & Secure Different?

Real Conversations

I believe therapy should feel natural, honest, and collaborative, not cold or overly clinical. My goal is to create a space where clients feel comfortable having real conversations about real life experiences.

Culturally Aware & Affirming Care

Everyone deserves support that respects their identity, background, experiences, and lived reality. I strive to create an affirming environment where clients feel seen, respected, and understood.

A Balance of Warmth & Accountability

Healing involves both self-awareness and growth. I aim to support clients with empathy while also encouraging accountability, healthier patterns, and meaningful change.