Clinical Director/Psychotherapist

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

I found my passion in helping others when I learned the hard truth and struggles about my grandmother. Before I was born, my grandmother struggled with depression and attempted to take her life twice. Had she completed either time, I would have missed out on knowing one of the most amazing women in my life. She was so incredibly strong and did for others every chance she got. It blew my mind to be told what had gone on inside this unbelievable driving force in my life. I decided then I needed to help those who have lost hope find it again.

I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice along with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Texas A&M- Commerce. I have 10 years of experience treating eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, self harm, suicidal ideations and general mood disorders with all populations.

Specialty:

My passion is working with those with eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, difficult life transitions and the LGBTQ community. In my experience, people with these struggles are extremely intelligent and they just want more for themselves. I get the honor of watching people recover while healing all aspects that impact their wellbeing and establish a new sense of self. Guiding patients to make healthier decisions for themselves so they can learn to love the body they are in which will change their lives to live the life they have dreamed of and more. The end goal is about self-acceptance, body acceptance, self-love and self compassion to better themselves physically, mentally and emotionally.

Therapeutic Approach:

My approach to any session or patient is to meet them where they are at today. Identify their needs and figure out together what support they might need and how I can help. So many struggles come in many different manifestations that just need someone to shine the light on the darkness and help someone come out on the other side. My main goal in therapy is to help develop healthy coping skills, build up one’s self image and esteem, identify the root of the emotions and allow every patient to ride the waves of their feelings while being there as a constant support. I want to help change the legacies people are leaving behind for generations to come.

Personal Note:

I enjoy all things University of Florida related, GO GATORS I pass my time with continuing to build a beautiful connection with all three of my children and spoiling my fur babies as well. Home is where the heart is and mine resides with those that matter to me most. I have witnessed and heard some of the worst things in life so my main goal or mission in life is to leave this world a little better than I have seen it come or even was given. I share my experience in hopes to make an impact on those around me.

Psychotherapist

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

I started college with the intention of majoring in nursing, but once I took my first psychology class, I knew I had to switch! Since then I have graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce.  

Specialty:

My passion is working with those in active addiction, early sobriety, and long-term recovery. I also work closely with couples who are navigating a partner’s addiction, struggles in communication and conflicts, betrayal, and any other relationship issue. I also have experience in working with individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and attachment disorders. 

Therapeutic approach:

I utilize attachment-based therapy to identify any thoughts, feelings, or behaviors learned early on in life that may be contributing to issues today. With that lens, I also utilize many Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT) techniques to empower my clients to validate their own experiences and find balance with healthy coping skills and emotional responses. We will make sure you have the skills needed to endure problems while we dig deeper to understand the root of the issues and make long-term changes. You deserve a life you don’t need an escape from! 

Personal note:

I enjoy passing the time by reading the latest fantasy novel, browsing a farmer’s market, and traveling to new states with my husband. I hope to one day own a cozy cabin in the mountains where I can peacefully drink hot tea by the fireplace and watch the snowfall. 

Supervisor: Tequila Johnson, LCSW-S

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

Having grown up facing significant challenges and mental health struggles, I deeply understand how difficult the journey can be. The support I received from compassionate therapists made a lasting impact on my life—and inspired me to become a therapist myself, so I can help others find healing just as I did.

Specialty:

I work with a wide variety of clients, supporting those facing a wide range of challenges including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, identity and gender exploration, relationship struggles, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and the everyday stress that life can bring. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where healing and growth are possible.

Therapeutic Approach: 

I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy—instead, I tailor each session to meet the unique needs of my clients. I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, ACT, family systems, strengths-based, solution-focused therapy, and more.

Personal:

Outside of therapy, I love spending time with my dog and my long-time partner. I’m into art, puzzles, cheering on the Houston Texans, and getting lost in a great fantasy book—especially Harry Potter (proud Hufflepuff here!). Fun fact: sharks are my absolute favorite animal. I’m originally from the Houston area but have really come to love life in DFW.

Supervisor: Donald Cook, LPC-S, LCDC

Psychotherapist

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

I come from a background deeply rooted in a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges. Growing up, I was always drawn to understanding the complexities of human behavior and how people can heal and grow through support and connection. This curiosity led me to pursue a career in counseling. I earned my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Brandman University, and then earned my Masters in Counseling from West Texas A&M University. My journey has shaped my approach to therapy, making it both compassionate and grounded in real-world experience.

Specialty:

My primary specialty is in addiction and substance use disorders, where I help individuals break free from the grip of addiction and build healthier, more fulfilling lives. I also have a strong interest in working with women, particularly in addressing issues unique to women’s mental and emotional health. Additionally, I work with clients struggling with relationship issues, ADHD, and other challenges that impact day-to-day functioning. My approach is always compassionate, and I strive to create a safe space for individuals to explore their struggles and work toward healing.

Therapeutic Approach:

As a person-centered therapist, I believe in the inherent potential for growth and change in every individual. I work collaboratively with clients to create a non-judgmental, empathetic environment where they feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I integrate a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual’s needs, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices, while always honoring the unique experiences and strengths of each person. My goal is to help clients gain insight, develop coping strategies, and build resilience in a way that feels authentic to them.

Personal Note:

Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé and children, traveling, trying new restaurants, reading, writing stories, tending to my houseplants, playing D&D, and playing video games, and am committed to lifelong learning. I believe in the importance of a balanced life and find that this perspective enriches my work with clients. My approach is rooted in respect, compassion, and understanding, and I truly believe that each step of the healing process, no matter how small, is a victory. I’m honored to be part of your journey toward personal growth, self-empowerment, and lasting change.

Supervisor: Stephanie Waitt, LPC-S

Psychotherapist and Yoga Instructor

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

Early on in middle school, I began to dream of becoming a counselor one day. I was fortunate enough to have access to a professional counselor at a time when my support system was broken and I needed help, whether I knew it then or not. In the time I spent earning my undergraduate degree in Psychology at University of Arkansas, I knew I chose wisely as learning began to feel like a passion and joy. The same sense of purpose and belonging came when I began to immerse myself in the yoga community, so I took a detour in graduate school and became a certified yoga teacher to grow both personally and professionally.

Specialty:

As a therapist, my goal is to provide a nonjudgmental and growth-oriented space where we both can be direct and honest to help you achieve confidence in your judgment and ability to navigate life and its obstacles. Graduating from University of North Texas having earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling has given me a strong support system to show up for clients/students and myself so we can live empowered and authentic lives. I have years of experience working in private practice, inpatient, and residential care facilities teaching yoga with a diverse range of clients. The work I am experienced and passionate about being a part of involves: addiction, relationship issues, self-harm, neurodivergence, depression/anxiety, eating disorders, criminal justice involvement, LGBTQ support, individuals, couples/families, teens, and adults.

Therapeutic approach:

The lense I practice therapy from has embodied a mix of Adlerian theory, person-centered therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. The past experiences we have, the moments we are caught up in, and capturing the present both physically and mentally are intertwined in a way that is helpful to meet you where you are at and go from there. As a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher with my mental health background, I have specialized experience teaching trauma-informed yoga groups and can incorporate somatic/sound healing into therapy for those interested in this type of holistic approach.

Personal note:

Outside of work, I am likely walking my dogs or finding a way to become more of a minimalist in my RV I bought to live in a few years back. I enjoy creating DIY home improvements, live music (or my songs to sing playlist on Spotify), nights out dancing, incense/candles, coffee, and visiting korean spas when I need a bit more relaxation.

Supervisor: Fran DeArman, MS, LPC, C-PD, CYMHS

Student Intern

She/Her/Hers

My Origins:

As many second-generation Americans can relate to, I grew up with the idea of mental health being dismissed. I started seeing a therapist as a teenager and was deeply changed by the experience, and now I am ready to pay it forward. I am passionate about collaboration and helping people learn about themselves. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in biology with a focus on pre-health professions, but it was my coursework in psychology and religious studies that drove my passion. I pivoted away from medicine and into counseling, and am in the final year of my Master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of North Texas at Dallas.

Specialty:

As a student, I do not yet have specialized training, but I am passionate about learning from wherever I can. My areas of focus include: adolescents, college students, adults, members of the LGBTQ+ community, life transitions, identity development, self-esteem, anxiety, and trauma, particularly religious and generational trauma. I am passionate about working with a multicultural lens and supporting racial, religious, and gender/sexual minorities, and I take an intersectional approach.

Therapeutic approach:

My approach to therapy centers supporting and encouraging you to thrive, not just survive. I aim to balance encouragement and accountability in a space that makes you feel seen and supported. I take an integrative approach, using mainly Adlerian therapy and Internal Family Systems. I view people holistically and believe therapy is not one size fits all. Every part of you is important to me and we will work together to tackle the challenges you are facing and grow through them. I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space where your identity is not only valid, but valued.

Personal note:

I don’t take myself too seriously and love to bring humor into sessions when appropriate. In my free time, I love going to concerts, watching an embarrassing amount of reality tv, reading, and spending time with my partner and our gray tabby named Finn.