I particularly remember when Carllistus was invited to deliver a phenomenal presentation to the DC Community of Practice School Behavioral Health on Building a highly functional School Behavioral Health Team. Carllistus was able to highlight the importance of trauma-informed care; staff & Student Wellness; and Self-Care. This invitation and presentation highlight not only the wonderful work that Carllistus has done in providing training and support to the Washington Latin School community but also additional Schools in Washington DC. 

T. Bufort-Odom LCPC, LPC- Director Integrated Services

Carl Obeng has always been devoted to advocating for the mental health and academic needs of all students; especially those black and brown, through his practice as a School Psychologist. As his former colleague, I have always been impressed by his ability to express his clinical work in a way where he dissects the analytical depth while still maintaining clarity for all to understand. He serves his clients and their families with his very best, maintains integrity as a clinician, and models the elements of healthy emotional health and self care in his personal life. “

J. Coleman, MSW, LICSW

Carllistus has this incredible way of seeing the work through the psychological lens, without losing sight of the individual! Our students, families, and their unique qualities and experiences, were always at the center of his work. He invests students in their own growth, and uses data-driven ways to close academic/social/emotional gaps, in a way that also builds the student's self-efficacy. This is one of the many reasons why he is both highly effective and highly respected!

 A. Davis,  MA, LGPC, M.Ed

Carl has a calm, clear, and effective demeanor that is infectious. I remember there was a time when there was a student that was in the hall yelling, screaming, and kicking out of frustration. While the student was clearly distraught, Carl walked over to him calmly and let the student know it was okay to be angry and that being upset about something is normal. Carl then said to the student they cannot do things while they are angry that puts themselves in danger. The student looked at Carl frustrated but stopped and sat on the floor. Carl allowed him some time to calm himself and then sat down with him and talked some. They even took some deep breaths together. Afterwards, the student returned to class. I attribute that to how Carl meets kids where they are and allows them to feel their emotion and then assists them in understanding their why as well as assisting them in learning coping skills. Carl builds meaningful relations with every person that he has the opportunities to work with. When you talk with Carl, it is clear that he has a passion for mental health in a way that is intentional, heartfelt, and meaningful. I always say to Carl, "I want to learn how to be as calm, cool, and collected as you are". Carl is a wonderful clinician that I am proud to know and proud to have worked with.

T.Holland, Professional School Counselor

Mr. Obeng came in weekly to observe the scholar, provided me with bi-weekly strategies and guidance for the scholar. He assisted me with different ways to take anecdotal notes on the scholar and how to have conversations with the scholar's family to mirror at home the same strategies. Eventually after Mr. Obeng was able to observe the scholar over a period of time, he was able to evaluate the scholar and go over every detail I needed as the scholar's teacher to meet him where he was and grow him. The evaluation was very detailed with step-by-step strategies that build on one another as the scholar progressed. If it wasn't for Mr. Obeng attention to detail and his passion for children development, I'm not sure how I would have been able to support my scholars and families on my own without his support. Thank You Mr. Obeng 

G.Hillard Elementary School ELA/History Teacher