Meet Dr. Erica Tatum-Sheade — entrepreneur, best-selling author, licensed therapist, speaker, mom, and a nationally respected advocate for inclusive mental health care. With over 20 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families, Dr. Erica is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Adlerian Play Therapist, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor whose work centers on empowerment, belonging, and identity.
She is the founder of Play Well with Dr. Erica, a supervision and professional development program dedicated to training the next generation of play therapists through a lens of cultural awareness, courage, and emotional connection. Known for her warmth and authenticity, Dr. Erica specializes in Adlerian Play Therapy, helping youth — especially girls and children of color — build confidence, resilience, and self-worth in spaces where they feel truly seen.
A two-term former President of the Arizona Association for Play Therapy, Dr. Erica continues to serve on its board, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion within therapeutic communities. Her work extends far beyond the therapy room: she offers Daring Greatly and Rising Strong groups for women, co-owns the Arizona Institute for Advanced Psychotherapy Training (AZIAPT), and leads G.E.M.S.® (Girls Empowered, Motivated, and Strong) — a curriculum helping girls from elementary through high school develop courage, empowerment, and authenticity.
As the CMC (Chief Mom in Charge) of Fight Confront Knockout The Stigma, Dr. Erica is committed to reshaping the conversation around mental health. She also provides clinical supervision, trainings, and engaging presentations for organizations across the country.
✨ Meet Dr. Erica Tatum-Sheade at the Scottsdale Book Festival and discover a leader whose work uplifts youth, strengthens families, and inspires the next generation of therapists.