From humble beginnings in Cincinnati to the vibrant city of Houston, Shadawn McCants embodies the essence of a modern-day trailblazer. With an unyielding commitment to empowerment, education, and transformative advocacy, Shadawn has emerged as a formidable force in the fields of Mental Wellness and Healing, HIV awareness, and public health.
At the core of Shadawn’s journey lies her role as the driving force behind Know and Live Counseling and Consulting, and the visionary founder of 2 Know is 2 Live, a nonprofit dedicated to educating, empowering and emboldening positive change. Through these endeavors, Shadawn has become a beacon of hope, offering support and guidance to individuals navigating life’s challenges and breaking down barriers to mental wellness and holistic health.

Shadawn’s impact extends far beyond the counseling room. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, her expertise has touched countless lives, earning her recognition as a leading voice in the field. She is a Board-Certified Counselor and Healologist, leveraging her skills to empower others to embrace their authentic selves and live their truth.
In addition to her clinical work, Shadawn is a passionate advocate for HIV awareness and prevention. As an Ambassador for the CDC’s-Let’s Stop HIV Together and Thera Technologies nationally recognized campaign “I am a Champion,” she works tirelessly to change the narrative for Black women living with HIV. Her efforts have earned her accolades such as the Humanitarian of the Year award from Women Doing it Big and the Global Exceptional Woman Trailblazer Award from The Exceptional Woman Network.
Shadawn’s journey is marked by a series of remarkable achievements. From her role as a bestselling author to her appearances in prestigious publications like the New York Times, she continues to elevate the conversation surrounding Mental Wellness, Healing and HIV/AIDS awareness. Her advocacy has taken her to stages around the world, where she delivers powerful keynote addresses and presentations, inspiring others to join her in the fight for positive change and collective healing.

Rooted in a deep commitment to education, Shadawn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from the University of Cincinnati and a Master’s in Counseling from the illustrious Prairie View A&M. She is a lifelong learner, constantly seeking new opportunities to expand her knowledge and expertise.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Shadawn is a dedicated philanthropist and community leader. Whether organizing HIV prevention workshops or partnering with organizations internationally, she remains steadfast in her mission to uplift and empower others.
In her downtime, Shadawn finds joy in life’s simple pleasures. Whether cycling through her beloved city or preparing exquisite culinary delights, she approaches each experience with boundless enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure. As Shadawn’s journey continues to unfold, she remains a steadfast beacon of change, fueled by an unyielding passion and a rich array of skills with a personified dedication and a profound commitment to fostering healing and transformation.