Dr. Cashuna “Shun” Huddleston Redefines Leadership, Mental Wellness, and Representation for Women Everywhere

As we celebrate Women’s History Month this March, we honor those who are redefining leadership, empowerment, and representation for women everywhere. Among them is Dr. Cashuna (Shun) Huddleston, a licensed psychologist whose work continues to uplift and inspire women of color and communities beyond.

Dr. Huddleston’s journey reflects the power of purpose and perseverance. With a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Houston and advanced training at Vanderbilt University and Baylor College of Medicine, she has built a career centered on advocacy, mentorship, and empowerment.

Mo Clark: How important is self-care, and what are some practical tips?

Dr. Cashuna: Self-care is essential for maintaining mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It helps prevent burnout, improves resilience, and enhances overall quality of life. Small, consistent acts of self-care can make a significant difference.

Physical self-care includes exercising regularly to boost mood and energy, prioritizing 7–9 hours of sleep each night, and eating balanced, nutrient-dense meals.

Mental and emotional self-care involves mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress, journaling to process emotions, and setting boundaries to protect your time and energy.

Social and spiritual self-care means staying connected with loved ones and engaging in grounding activities like prayer, meditation, or spending time in nature.

Digital self-care includes limiting screen time, especially on social media, and unplugging before bed to improve sleep and relaxation.

Mo Clark: How can family and friends best support a loved one who is struggling with their mental health?

Dr. Cashuna: Family and friends can make a major difference by listening without judgment, showing empathy, and learning about the condition to provide informed support. 

They should be patient with the recovery process, encourage professional help when needed, and respect boundaries while offering consistent presence and reassurance.

Mo Clark: What are some effective strategies for coping with burnout and maintaining mental wellness in high-stress environments?

Dr. Cashuna: To prevent burnout, set clear boundaries to limit workload and say no when necessary. Practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress. Prioritize rest and physical activity to maintain energy and focus. Manage time effectively by breaking large tasks into smaller steps and delegating when possible. If stress persists, seek support from trusted individuals or a mental health professional.

Mo Clark: How does the media’s portrayal of mental health issues affect public perceptions and understanding?

Dr. Cashuna: Media has a powerful influence on how society views mental health. Positive portrayals can reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help, while sensationalized or inaccurate depictions can reinforce harmful stereotypes. Balanced and empathetic storytelling promotes understanding and compassion.

Mo Clark: What is the relationship between physical health and mental well-being?

Dr. Cashuna: Physical and mental health are deeply connected. Regular exercise, good nutrition, and quality sleep enhance mood, reduce anxiety, and improve cognitive function. Physical activity releases endorphins, boosts energy, and can be as effective as medication for mild depression. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, and caring for both leads to greater overall wellness.

Mo Clark: It’s Women’s History Month. Can you name two or three women in medicine that you admire?

Dr. Cashuna: I would have to say I admire Dr. Simone Ellis – Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Angela Sturm – Facial Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Baruch Williams – Pediatric Neuropsychologist

A passionate champion for women of color, Dr. Huddleston co-authored an American Psychological Association–funded grant to advance leadership and career development opportunities for women in underrepresented groups. Her leadership as Past President of the Psychology of Black Women and her creation of the “100 Black Women in Psychology” event at the APA conference have opened doors for countless professionals to connect, collaborate, and lead.

Her impact extends beyond her professional achievements. Through mentorship programs for young women and initiatives like Suits for Success, she helps youth—especially young Black women and men—build confidence, resilience, and vision for their futures.

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