Kafayat (Ayoka) Hannah, LISW

Kafayat (Ayoka) Hannah is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) practicing in South Carolina with 18 years of clinical experience. She combines a compassionate, client-centered stance with evidence-informed techniques to help people navigate depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and the unique concerns of LGBTQ+ individuals. Her practice focuses on practical strategies for stress management, improving sleep, addressing trauma and abuse, and strengthening self-esteem, while also offering support for parenting, career transitions, and coping with life changes.

Kafayat emphasizes a culturally responsive, affirming approach that honors each person’s individual background and goals. She works with clients on issues ranging from grief and intimacy-related concerns to anger management, compassion fatigue, and ADHD, and she provides care around life events such as divorce, pregnancy, and end-of-life matters. Using a collaborative process, she helps clients build resilience, explore identity, and develop coping skills that support long-term well-being.

As a licensed professional (SC LISW 14712), Kafayat integrates client-centered therapy with cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior techniques, along with solution-focused strategies and motivational interviewing, to tailor treatment to each person’s needs. She accepts international clients and offers flexible options for engaging in therapy remotely.

Therapeutic approaches and online care

Kafayat draws from client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy to guide her online practice. Client-centered therapy emphasizes a respectful, nonjudgmental relationship where the therapist supports each person’s own goals and self-discovery; it is helpful for building self-esteem and addressing life transitions. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, which can be effective for anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, and stress. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) teaches practical skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, making it useful for managing intense emotions and relationship challenges.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Kafayat works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adapts techniques as progress is made.

Online therapy with Kafayat is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexibility and accessibility. These options make it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules, maintain continuity during life changes, and connect with a licensed professional from different locations, including internationally.