On Wednesday night in Cleveland, something powerful happens that goes far beyond traditional therapy. Ghetto Therapy, a grassroots healing movement founded by Walter Patton, continues to bring the community together to confront trauma, share stories, and build stronger minds and spirits.
This week’s session gathered community members, entrepreneurs, authors, and leaders at the Langston Hughes Center – Cleveland Clinic Community Health & Education Center, located at 2390 E 79th St, Cleveland, Ohio.
The Mission of Ghetto Therapy
Founded by Cleveland native Walter Patton, Ghetto Therapy was created to address a major gap in mental health resources within underserved communities. For generations, many Black communities have faced barriers to therapy and mental health services. Ghetto Therapy aims to break that stigma and provide healing in a culturally relevant and accessible way.
Every Wednesday evening from 6PM – 8PM, the community gathers to participate in a wide range of healing practices including:
- Meditation sessions
- Reiki energy healing
- Sound bowl therapy
- Yoga and guided breathing
- Open group discussion
- Art therapy and creative expression
- Massage and holistic wellness practices
The program is completely free and open to the public, creating a safe space where residents can heal together through conversation, reflection, and shared experiences.
Tonight’s Special Guests: Authors Sharing Their Journeys
Tonight’s gathering featured several inspiring voices who have turned life experiences into powerful books and messages for the community.
International Author – Cleveland’s Own Jameel Davis
Author Jameel Davis spoke about his journey from growing up in Cleveland’s inner city to becoming an internationally recognized author and book publisher. His story resonated deeply with attendees as he shared how writing became a tool for healing, empowerment, and changing the narrative for young Black men facing the same struggles he once faced.
Explore Jameel Davis books here:
Order Books by Jameel Davis
Dana Killebrew – “Cuffs to Cuffs”
Dana Killebrew shared insight from his powerful story “Cuffs to Cuffs: The Journey from Prison to Nursing.” His message of redemption and transformation reminded attendees that change is possible no matter where someone begins their journey.
Learn more about Dana Killebrew’s book:
Cuffs to Cuffs – Dana Killebrew
Coach Mike D.A.
Coach Mike D.A. also spoke about mentorship, discipline, and the importance of guiding young men through leadership and accountability.
Donte Ferguson – “War in the City”
Another highlight of the night was the discussion surrounding the powerful urban story “War in the City” by Donte Ferguson, which captures the harsh realities of street life while also emphasizing growth, survival, and transformation.
Watch the Ghetto Therapy Documentary
To better understand the impact this movement is having on the Cleveland community, watch the video below documenting the program’s mission and work.
Scenes from Tonight’s Event
Why Programs Like This Matter
Programs like Ghetto Therapy are essential because they address the deeper issues affecting many urban communities — generational trauma, economic hardship, violence, and limited access to mental health care.
By combining culture, conversation, holistic healing, and community leadership, the program creates a powerful environment where people can speak openly, learn from one another, and begin the healing process together.
At Wake Hustle Grind, we believe community empowerment starts with knowledge, healing, and access to opportunity. Events like this show what happens when people come together with a shared goal of uplifting one another.
How to Attend
Ghetto Therapy takes place weekly on Wednesdays from 6PM – 8PM in Cleveland and is open to anyone seeking support, healing, and community.
If you’re looking for a safe space to grow, reflect, and connect with others on the same journey, this program continues to be one of Cleveland’s most powerful grassroots healing movements.
Published by Wake Hustle Grind — Highlighting entrepreneurship, culture, and community leadership across Cleveland and beyond.
