Raleigh, North Carolina – The mental health community in North Carolina is mourning the loss of Scotia Burrell, a 45-year-old psychotherapist and founder of Burrell Counseling Group, PLLC, who passed away on September 6 following a courageous battle with esophageal cancer.
Burrell, remembered as both a compassionate healer and a community advocate, leaves behind a legacy that extends well beyond her professional practice. Colleagues described her as a “giant in her own right,” a Black woman therapist whose presence and leadership created space for others in a field where representation still matters deeply.
A Life of Service and Healing
Burrell studied at East Carolina University and Winthrop University before establishing herself in Raleigh, where she became a trusted voice in mental health. Through her private practice, she worked with individuals and families navigating trauma, grief, and life transitions, always grounding her work in empathy and cultural awareness.
Friends and clients alike remember her as someone who “carried light into the darkest moments” and pushed others to pursue wellness both personally and professionally. Her dedication made her not just a counselor but also a mentor for fellow practitioners.
Honoring Her Life
Burrell’s family shared that she “peacefully completed her battle” with cancer, leaving behind loved ones who will carry her memory forward. A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, September 12 at noon at William Toney’s Funeral Home in Zebulon, NC, with a live webcast available for those unable to attend.
Attendees are encouraged to wear pink, her favorite color, as a joyful tribute to her spirit and brightness.
Why Her Passing Resonates
- Representation in Mental Health: Burrell’s work highlighted the importance of diversity in therapy, providing visibility and relatability for Black clients seeking culturally responsive care.
- Community Impact: Beyond her counseling, she advocated for better access to mental health services in underserved communities.
- Legacy of Healing: Her colleagues are urging fellow practitioners to honor her memory by “living and working well,” a phrase that reflects her holistic approach to wellness.
Carrying Her Spirit Forward
While the grief of her passing is profound, Burrell’s influence remains. As one colleague wrote: “If you knew Scotia, you know she would want us to grieve, but also to celebrate a life well lived.”
Her legacy serves as both a call to action and a reminder: healing work is vital, representation matters, and one life dedicated to service can uplift an entire community.
