I am Dr. Toni Boulware Stackhouse, a Counseling Psychologist, owner and CEO of Life Matters Wellness in Bel Air Maryland. My husband and I live in Havre de Grace. I am an author of two books and two journals currently. My husband, a retired veteran, and I love to travel and entertain in our home. I love reading, writing, and shopping. I enjoy meeting new people as well as helping others. I am family oriented, love spending time with my parents, siblings, nieces, nephews and friends.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband is a retired veteran who suffered a stroke 7 years ago. Since then he is disabled however he is a fun loving guy full of life. Between us two we have an adult son and and adult daughter and son in law who currently have two sons one 11 year old and a soon to be 6 year old. My daughter is in her final year of law school. I have two sisters and 1 brother. I am grateful to still have both of my parents alive and well. They will celebrate 56 years of marriage this year.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I recently ended a 25 year career working with individuals and families who have experienced homelessness in Baltimore City and County. This career led me to my current career in Mental Health. In my previous career I saw a greater need to assist individuals who were suffering from mental health issues. In March of 2020 I started my own private practice offering virtual mental health services. In June of 2023 we opened our first office in Bel Air. I have been excited about working in the community because I love people and what I love most about what I do is that I get to help people be empowered through the therapy process to make changes in their lives.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Barrett’s on the Pike and The Orient Restaurant.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in Havre de Grace for 7 years and worked in Bel Air for 1 year.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Everyone has been very welcoming to me since I arrived last year. I’ve met a number of people/businesses and I would say that they are all interesting and unique in there own ways.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
My favorite movie is The Devil Wears Prada and I’ve watched it a million times I’m sure.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
My advice to people always includes them living the fullest expression of who God created them to be unapologetically!
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Mannequin on Main.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Vice President Kamala Harris. I would like to talk to her about her experience in her position, and what is next for her. We could go to the Coffee Bar because we would probably do more talking than eating.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The Farmers Market that also includes the food trucks, great way to meet people. Also first Fridays.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In 5 to 10 years I see myself with expanded business, multiple locations throughout Maryland.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
This is hard because my family and friends know me very well. I’m known to be very open in that way…….perhaps that I am shy in certain environments.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The welcome received in the community!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My parents, my daughter and my grandsons.
Q: What community service or volunteer work do you participate in for your local community?
I am currently a member of the Patient Advisory Committee at The Upper Chesapeake Hospital as well as being a Board member of The Family Crisis Center in Dundalk Maryland.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfort, safe and enjoyable!
