Panankosi Mbunjwa, LMSW, M.Div., CAADFC, SUD

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Meet Pana.

Healing begins with the belief that change is possible. Pana creates a welcoming, compassionate space where clients feel respected, heard, and encouraged as they work through life's challenges. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or simply feeling stuck, he believes therapy is an opportunity to rediscover your strengths and reconnect with the life you want to live.

Pana approaches each client with warmth, authenticity, and deep respect for the dignity of every individual. He understands that healing is rarely linear, and he walks alongside clients with patience, curiosity, and hope as they navigate their unique journey.

In addition to his clinical training, Pana is certified in Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment, providing specialized expertise in working with individuals experiencing co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns. He earned both his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) from Andrews University, bringing together advanced clinical training with a rich understanding of spiritual care, human development, and holistic wellness.

My Approach to Therapy.

Pana's work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helping clients recognize how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence one another. Together, you'll identify patterns of thinking that may be keeping you stuck, learn practical strategies for challenging cognitive distortions, and build healthier ways of responding to life's challenges.

While CBT serves as the foundation of his work, Pana believes healing involves the whole person. Drawing from his background in ministry, he thoughtfully incorporates spiritual perspectives and lifestyle principles when they align with a client's values and goals. His approach is always collaborative, individualized, and respectful of each person's beliefs and experiences.

Pana values creativity, teamwork, and genuine connection in the therapeutic relationship. He believes therapy is not simply about reducing symptoms—it's about discovering strengths that may have been hidden by pain, learning new ways of seeing yourself, and building a life that reflects your values.

Clinical Interests

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Trauma and recovery

  • Substance use and addiction

  • Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders

  • Stress management

  • Emotional regulation

  • Self-esteem

  • Faith and spirituality (when desired by the client)

What You Can Expect

When you work with Pana, you can expect therapy to be:

  • Warm and welcoming

  • Compassionate and nonjudgmental

  • Collaborative and goal-oriented

  • Practical and evidence-based

  • Respectful of your values and lived experiences

  • Focused on uncovering strengths and building lasting resilience

Whether you're taking your first step into therapy or returning after previous experiences, Pana is committed to meeting you where you are and helping you move toward meaningful, sustainable growth.