What is Mental Health & Mimosas?

Mental Health and Mimosas, founded by Samaria Witherspoon and co-chaired by Aaliyah Young, is a mixer that strives to bring awareness to mental health topics within the Lancaster community during Mental Health Awareness month. It consists of a social dinner, panel discussion and community styled networking that aims to educate and advocate for healthier lives.

Meet the founders:

Samaria Witherspoon, M.Ed. LPC
Samaria Janae Witherspoon is originally from Lancaster, South Carolina, but currently based in Atlanta, Georgia. Sam is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and South Carolina. She provides couples, individual, group and family counseling to those that are struggling with trauma, depression, anger, grief, substance abuse, and behavioral and emotional issues. Sam is also a professor of psychology in Atlanta, Georgia, a public speaker as well as a self-published author. She received both her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Education in School Psychology and Counseling Services from Howard University in Washington, DC. She is passionate about the Lancaster community and continues to uplift her community through different events such as Mental Health & Mimosas.
Aaliyah Young
Aaliyah Young thrives on engagement, connection, and continuous learning. She is eager to learn from her peers and constituents while also pouring into others, assisting in advocating for the importance of development, networking, and community connections. With a deep passion for economic empowerment and small business success, she is committed to bridging gaps and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs. Originally from Charlotte, NC, Aaliyah graduated from Lancaster High School before earning her Associate Degree in Business Administration with cum laude honors from Miller-Motte College. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Having spent most of her life in the Carolinas, she has gained valuable experience in both the hospitality and nonprofit sectors, remaining dedicated to fostering change, building meaningful relationships, and driving economic mobility in her community. She joined the mission of Mental Health & Mimosas because it directly aligns with her passions.

Why should you attend?

We invite you to an elegant and impactful gathering in Lancaster, SC. Mental Health & Mimosas 2025 is more than an event—it’s a movement dedicated to raising awareness, fostering connection, and providing resources for mental well-being.

Through open discussions, expert insights, and community networking, we will address some of the most pressing mental health topics—Postpartum, Autism, and Grief (topics should be bolded)—experiences that deeply affect individuals and families. By engaging in these conversations, we hope to build understanding, extend grace, and create a more supportive and informed community.

Let’s break stigmas, share resources, and uplift one another—because your mental well-being matters.

Each ticket will include a catered meal, a mimosa open bar, access to our bloom bar, interactive activities and an overall positive ambience.

Location: Lancaster Historical Courtroom
📅 Date: May 17, 2025
⏰ Time: 2:00 – 6:00 P.M.
👗 Dress Code: Green, Orange, or White Cocktail Attire

Meet our 2025 Speakers

Amber Pearson Bowen
Amber Pearson Bowen, LCSW, LISW-CP; is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of Unapologetically U, a private practice dedicated to supporting professional women on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. With seven years of experience in mental health, Amber specializes in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, workplace trauma, childhood trauma, racial stress, and self-esteem challenges. Rooted in a strengths-based and holistic approach, Amber empowers women to embrace their authentic selves, cultivate resilience, and break free from limiting beliefs. She integrates evidence-based modalities with a deep understanding of the unique pressures her clients face, providing a safe and affirming space for growth. With a commitment to destigmatizing therapy and advocating for emotional well-being, Amber offers therapy to clients in North Carolina and South Carolina, focusing on making transformative care accessible to those seeking lasting change. Beyond the therapy room, Amber is dedicated to psychoeducation and community empowerment, sharing insights on mental health and self-care through workshops, social media, and professional collaborations.
Arielle Orr
Arielle Orr, M.A., BCBA, LBA, is a dedicated behavior analyst from McConnells, SC, with a strong background in Applied Behavior Analysis and a passion for helping children thrive. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the College of Charleston before pursuing her Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis at Ball State University. Arielle became a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Behavior Analyst in 2023. With several years of experience, Arielle has worked with children ranging from 2 to 15 years old, supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive defiance disorder, schizophrenia, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Currently, Arielle serves as the Director of Carolina Therapeutics Academy, where she leads a half-day preschool program designed to cater to the needs of children with disabilities. The program focuses on providing individual learning experiences, fostering communication, promoting inclusion, and offering overall support to clients and their families. Arielle is committed to fostering positive change through evidence-based practices and collaborative care. Her expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis, combined with her dedication to creating tailored interventions, allows her to effectively address the challenges children face in their daily lives.
Ivanna Ross, PA-C

Meet our 2025 Community Champions!

We are honored to recognize this year’s Giving of Flowers Award recipients! These are individuals who uplift, inspire, and nurture those around them. Your dedication to growth and well-being makes our community thrive. We thank them for all that they do!

Charquisha McGriff

Dr. Patricia K. Rucker

Charisse Witherspoon

Tyrom Faulkner

LaNisha Stover Blair

Toya Reid