Rosina Teye Appiah: A Trailblazer in Mental Health and Community Leadership

Rosina Teye Appiah is a visionary leader, mental health therapist, and advocate for culturally inclusive care. Her life’s work embodies resilience, dedication, and a commitment to empowering communities. Originally from Ghana, West Africa, Rosina immigrated to the United States in 2016, where she now resides in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Her journey is one of breaking barriers, uplifting others, and fostering cultural understanding.

A Journey Rooted in Resilience

Rosina’s life is a testament to perseverance. After facing significant challenges, including working in menial jobs, navigating a difficult divorce, and raising children as a single mother, she pursued advanced education while adapting to a new country. Today, Rosina holds two master’s degrees and is preparing for her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) exams, reflecting her unwavering dedication to personal and professional growth.

Her passion for mental health was sparked by her own experiences of struggling to find culturally sensitive therapy. This realization inspired her to become a therapist herself, focusing on bridging the cultural gaps that prevent many people of color from accessing effective mental health care.

Leadership with a Global Impact

Rosina’s leadership journey began in Ghana, where she founded a nonprofit organization that has been running for 15 years. She empowered over 250 rural women and widows, played a key role in drafting Ghana’s first youth manifesto, and advocated for affirmative action bills that were eventually signed into law after years of persistence.

In the United States, she has continued her leadership trajectory. As the founder of the Arise Above Foundation, she supports individuals with mental health challenges by addressing employment, housing, and other critical needs. Rosina’s service extends to roles on the North Dakota HIV and AIDS Advisory Board and the Board of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Grand Forks Chapter.

Advancing Culturally Inclusive Mental Health

Rosina is deeply committed to providing culturally competent mental health care. Her private practice, Harmony Haven Therapy, PLLC, is a safe haven for clients seeking therapy that respects their cultural identities. She also works tirelessly to promote understanding and education through her books, training workshops, and bi-weekly podcast, where she explores practical mental health strategies tailored to diverse communities.

Although still in the design phase, Rosina’s ambitious plan to launch a telehealth mental health platform for people of color reflects her vision for expanding access to care across the northern U.S. Her focus remains on ensuring that mental health services are both inclusive and accessible.

Empowering Minority Entrepreneurs

Rosina’s leadership extends beyond mental health. She is planning a three-day business coaching program for minority entrepreneurs, focusing on developing online presence, website design, and social media management. Although not yet implemented, this initiative aims to empower small businesses with tools for success while linking participants to financial institutions for support.

A Steady Personal Life and Professional Vision

Rosina’s success is complemented by a fulfilling personal life. She is currently in a very steady relationship, finding balance between her personal happiness and professional endeavors. Her story inspires many, proving that with determination and vision, it is possible to overcome challenges and create meaningful change.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Rosina Teye Appiah’s life is defined by her dedication to uplifting others, breaking cultural barriers, and fostering a sense of belonging. Through her work as a therapist, author, and leader, she continues to leave an indelible mark on communities both in Ghana and the United States. Her vision for culturally competent care and empowerment remains a guiding force as she builds a future where everyone’s voice is heard and valued.