About AAFP
A trailblazing organization dedicated to advancing the field of forensic behavioral health.
A Purpose Rooted in a Passion for Both Behavioral Health and the Law
The AAFP is a 501(c)3, tax-exempt public charity. We are a trailblazing organization dedicated to advancing the field of forensic behavioral health. With a rich history and a team of accomplished experts, we are committed to unraveling the complexities of the human mind, while upholding justice and ensuring fairness in the legal system.
Our origin story is rooted in a passion for both behavioral health and the law. We believe that by harmonizing these disciplines, we can bring a unique perspective to forensic investigations and ultimately contribute to the truth-seeking process.
Throughout our journey, we have been honored with numerous awards and recognitions, a testament to our unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence. We take pride in our achievements, but our focus remains firmly on serving our members, clients, and society as a whole.
Our Team
Tommy Black, Ph.D., LPC (GA/USVI), LMHC (FL) , CPCS, ACS
Executive Director
Dr. Tommy Black is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a distinguished career spanning over two decades. Since beginning his practice in 1998, Dr. Black has become a leading figure in mental health, forensic behavioral health, and victim support. He is recognized for his commitment to improving access to quality care, advocating for licensure portability, and upholding the highest standards in mental health services.
Dr. Black is an expert in PTSD, forensic and custody evaluations, comprehensive testing, and the treatment of sex offenders. His expertise extends to curriculum development, clinical supervision, and program innovation, making him a sought-after consultant for state and national counseling regulatory bodies. He is also frequently called upon for expert legal testimony, showcasing his proficiency in crisis management and forensic evaluations.
Academically, Dr. Black holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Tampa, a Masterā€™s and Educational Specialist degree from Georgia Southern University, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Northcentral University. His dissertation focused on the psychological impacts of mobility on students.
In leadership roles, Dr. Black has directed Darsey, Black & Associates since 1998, overseeing a team of 50, and founded Atlantic Counseling Services in 2012, where he serves as Owner and Clinical Director. He also co-founded Esteem Therapeutics, Inc. His contributions to the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists, where he has served as Chair, further demonstrate his leadership in the field.
Dr. Blackā€™s professional credentials include licensure across multiple states and national board certifications in counseling and forensic evaluation. His military service in the US Army, along with his active membership in key professional organizations, highlights his dedication and influence in advancing behavioral health practices.
Dr. Vincentia Paul-Constantin, Ph.D., LPC (GA/USVI), NCC
Dr. Vincentia Paul-Constantin serves as the Director of Social and Cultural Competency for the AAFP and is the Founder and Executive Director of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, Ltd. A Licensed Mental Health Counselor in both the US Virgin Islands and Georgia, and a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC), Dr. Paul-Constantin holds a PhD in Specialized Education along with multiple advanced degrees in psychology, counseling, and education. She is also the Chair of the United States Virgin Islands Board of Licensed Counselors and Examiners.
With over 20 years of experience in education, Dr. Paul-Constantin has made significant contributions to fostering inclusive learning environments, particularly within Haitian communities in the Virgin Islands. Her expertise in cultural and social competence, especially with diverse ethnic groups, is reflected in her work at Beautiful Dreamers, where she administers educational assessments and provides training for educators. Dr. Paul-Constantin's commitment to educational equity and culturally responsive pedagogy drives her efforts to empower individuals with learning disabilities and mental illness to become productive members of society.Ā
Bryan G. Stephens, LPC
Bryan G. Stephens is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 30 years of experience in behavioral health and is the founder and CEO of TalkForward, a psychotherapy practice. For 24 years, Bryan has been a Licensed Professional Counselor, with the past three years dedicated to his private practice. He also has extensive experience in executive management, having served as CEO of a public behavioral health agency with over 450 employees and a $27 million budget.
Bryan is a Certified Gallup Strengths Coach and Certified Managerial Coach, bringing his expertise in coaching and clinical supervision to both therapists and teams. He has trained therapists extensively, particularly in his role as Ethics Chair on the Board of the Licensed Professional Counselors Association of Georgia (LPCA), where he now serves as Immediate Past President. Bryan holds an Executive MBA from Kennesaw State University and a Masterā€™s and Bachelorā€™s degree in Psychology.
Tracey Pace, Th.D, MSA, M.Ed, LPC, NCC, CFMHE, CFI
Dr. Pace is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia with over two decades of experience working with diverse populations. She is a Certified School Counselor and has collaborated with parents, teachers, and school administrators to support school-aged children. As a former Air National Guard Officer and Director of Administration for the 117TCS Georgia Air National Guard, Dr. Pace has a deep understanding of the needs of veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. She currently serves as the Chair of the Coastal Region of Georgia for the LPCA Board of Directors, where she mentors new counselors.
Dr. Pace is also a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE), Certified Child Custody Evaluator (CCCE), Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS), and Certified Forensic Interviewer (CFI). She holds a Doctorate in Biblical Theology, a Master of Science in Administration, and a Master of Education in Counseling. Dr. Pace resides in Clyo, Georgia, with her husband, Ed, and is a mother to five children and a grandmother of fifteen.
Erin Snyders, J.D.
Erin Snyders brings extensive expertise in human resources leadership, strategic planning, and legal affairs to her role on the board of directors. She holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Iowa College of Law, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Creighton University, and a Certificate in Strategic Change Management from Northwestern Kellogg Executive Education.
As the Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Roers Companies, Erin leads initiatives to attract, develop, and retain top talent, ensuring alignment with the companyā€™s rapid growth. She is also the founder of Honestly ADHD LLC, where she applied her legal and coaching skills to support parents raising children with ADHD, addressing gaps in the mental health system.
Erin's career is marked by her ability to implement effective business strategies, lead diverse teams, and drive organizational success through talent management and executive coaching. Her contributions to the legal and HR communities further demonstrate her commitment to elevating professional standards.