About Us

We’re on a mission to support, educate, and empower people to improve and maintain their emotional, mental, and social wellbeing.

How we think, feel, eat, move, rest, and relate all contribute to our mental health, our healing, and our growth.

Founder Tia Marie Brumsted began her career just days after finishing graduate school. She stepped into exciting roles in fun, seemingly healthy environments — until a medical emergency at work, brought on by stress, forced everything to a halt. As she recovered, she came to a powerful realization: she had been carrying the weight of her organization’s wellness without tending to her own. It wasn’t sustainable — and it certainly wasn’t healthy.

That recovery period became a turning point. Tia Marie committed to creating a lifestyle that nourished her full self. She learned to set clear boundaries, communicate her needs, and lean into mindfulness and meditation. That journey — of routine, reflection, and a return to self (with community) — set her free.

And now, she wants the same freedom for you.

At Sweetbay Mental Health and Consulting (formerly Centered Self), we bring these practices to life through practical, holistic care — helping individuals and organizations build sustainable systems of support. Whether you're healing from burnout, navigating personal growth, or building a culture of care in your workplace, we’re here to help you reconnect with yourself and rise with intention.

After four years of building community one class and one partnership at a time, we’re thrilled to welcome you to our physical space — a home for your self-care, healing, and growth. We look forward to meeting you.

Our Founder

Tia Marie Brumsted, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, NCSSW

Therapist | Coach | Healing Arts Practitioner

With 20 years of experience in mental health and K-12 school health administration, Tia Marie has served as a clinical social worker, personal coach, workplace consultant, and systems-level education leader in the metropolitan DC region. Tia Marie is passionate about integrative mental health and is certified in mindfulness and meditation teaching, restorative yoga, and sound healing. She leans into this integrative approach to help people and organizations find calm, clarity, confidence, and success.

Her Why: “I believe self-improvement is a lifelong journey. I encourage folx to come as they are and to recognize the many strengths they already possess. I love to create spaces for people to move beyond self-doubt and step boldly into their full potential.”

Practitioner Collective

  • Larissa Johnson, MPA

    Barre Fusion | Laughter Yoga

    Larissa's adventure into movement and wellness kicked off in 1998 when she became a certified aerobics instructor. Her journey has been a whirlwind tour across the country, teaching from the bustling streets of New York to the sunny shores of Hawaii, the laid-back vibes of San Diego, the historical charm of Massachusetts, and now the vibrant scene of Maryland. Alongside her wellness adventures, she's a champion for social and environmental justice, passionately tackling inequities and disparities. 

    Her Why: “My zest for movement keeps me on her toes, embracing the latest fitness crazes while weaving in cutting-edge research to sharpen focus, melt away stress, and supercharge information retention.”

  • Becca Thomas, E-RYT, Rocket-100 hr

    Slow Flow Yoga

    Becca is a seasoned yoga instructor who has taught in the DMV area for almost a decade. Becca is well-versed to support individuals whether they are new to yoga seeking foundations, or advanced practitioners refining their practice in handstands or arm balances.

    Her Why: “I enjoy creating fun, judgment-free environments where students can meet themselves wherever they are—whether seeking challenge or restoration—and find their edge in a safe and supporting space.

  • Holly McBride, MA

    Integrative Nutrition Health Coaching

    As a coach and educator, Holly brings a unique skill set to her work. She knows how to break down complex goals, motivate change, and meet each individual exactly where they are. She supports individuals who want to build healthier habits, feel more energized in their daily lives, and strengthen their connection to their bodies and values. Her approach is supportive and goal-driven, empowering clients to take action toward the identity and health outcomes they truly want.

    Her Why: “I believe in the power of education, accountability, and belief in oneself. I help clients build momentum through weekly wins, developing sustainable habits that lead to strength, vitality, and confidence both now and in the long term.”