Meet The Team
KATHERINE L. MIDDLETON, LCSW-S
Owner and Founder
Licensed in TN, KY, and AL
I am a mental health therapist that specializes in Trauma. I graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have been providing therapeutic services to a diverse population since graduating in 2011.
My career path and personal journey has led me to focus primarily on trauma due to a personal experience from a traumatic event, a car accident, and witnessing the effects of trauma on military individuals and their families. My parents served in the Air Force for 30 years allowing me to be raised in diverse environments, travel all over the country, and witness the impact of PTSD and trauma.
I have worked in many therapeutic settings with various populations. The common factor tends to be trauma related. I provide an environment that is non-judgmental, inviting, and laid back. I am human with human emotions and experiences. I believe in being relatable, normalizing, and validating experiences, feelings, and situations. I understand the demands of life and recognize seeking help is hard at times and requires you to place trust in someone with your hurts, pains, and secrets. I want you to know that my role is to make you feel safe and comfortable in a non-judgmental environment. My team is dedicated to being of services to you.
I currently provide therapeutic support to local human trafficking agency. I am a team member with the Kentucky Community Crisis Response Board.
Isis Balico LPCA
Councelor
Kentucky (Lexington)
I am a bilingual Clinical Mental Health Counseling student at the University of the Cumberlands.
I have a deep passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges. My counseling journey has been shaped by years of working in education, advocacy, and legal support, where I witnessed firsthand how systemic barriers and personal hardships impact mental health. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, valued, and supported. That’s why I strive to create a space where my clients can explore their emotions and experiences without judgment.
With experience in crisis intervention, case management, and group facilitation, I have worked with individuals facing domestic violence, immigration struggles, and other complex life transitions. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to trauma-informed care, cultural competence, and advocacy. Fluent in English and Spanish, I am passionate about bridging the gap in mental health services for underserved communities.
I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming or even intimidating, but my goal is to create a warm, safe, and supportive space where clients can explore their emotions at their own pace. Healing is a journey, and I am here to walk alongside my clients as they build resilience and develop meaningful coping strategies.
In my spare time, I enjoy going for long walks, practicing yoga, watching movies, and traveling.
Soy una estudiante bilingüe de Consejería en Salud Mental Clínica en la Universidad de Cumberlands. Siento una profunda pasión por ayudar a las personas a navegar los desafíos de la vida. Mi camino en la consejería ha sido moldeado por años de trabajo en educación, defensa de derechos y apoyo legal, donde fui testigo de primera mano de cómo las barreras sistémicas y las dificultades personales impactan la salud mental. Creo que todas las personas merecen sentirse escuchadas, valoradas y apoyadas. Por eso, me esfuerzo en crear un espacio donde mis clientes puedan explorar sus emociones y experiencias sin juicio.
Con experiencia en intervención en crisis, gestión de casos y facilitación de grupos, he trabajado con personas que enfrentan violencia doméstica, problemas migratorios y otras transiciones complejas en la vida. Estas experiencias han fortalecido mi compromiso con el enfoque basado en el trauma, la competencia cultural y la defensa de los derechos de mis clientes. Como hablante fluida de inglés y español, tengo una gran pasión por cerrar la brecha en los servicios de salud mental para comunidades desatendidas.
Entiendo que comenzar terapia puede ser abrumador o incluso intimidante, pero mi objetivo es crear un espacio cálido, seguro y de apoyo donde los clientes puedan explorar sus emociones a su propio ritmo. La sanación es un viaje, y estoy aquí para acompañar a mis clientes mientras fortalecen su resiliencia y desarrollan estrategias de afrontamiento significativas.
En mi tiempo libre, disfruto dar largos paseos, practicar yoga, ver películas y viajar.
JOHN “CHRIS” RISNER MA, LPCC-S, NCC
Clinical Director
Lexington, KY
I attended Berea College for my undergraduate studies, double majoring in philosophy and psychology, graduating in 2010 with two Bachelor’s Degrees. Following graduation, I took some time to do a little bit of soul searching. I worked in carpentry, with traumatic brain injury, and as a teaching assistant. Ultimately, I found that in each of these positions I gravitated towards the role of a mentor for the people around me. Psychology has always been my passion so in 2013, I began my trek into the world of mental health in Eastern Kentucky University’s Master’s program for clinical mental health. I graduated in 2016 with my Master’s Degree from EKU’s program. I have been a therapist since 2016 beginning in the field of Substance Abuse Counseling. I found that in order to treat substance abuse and addiction, I had to encompass a great variety of life stressors and factors for successful treatment. After two years as a substance abuse therapist, I broadened my focus to include trauma, grief, and other more general mental health issues.
My approach to counseling is client-centered drawing from CBT, REBT, existential therapy, and several humanistic theories. It is my personal philosophy that I do not treat disorders , I treat people. People come with a variety of complex issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief to name a few. I work with individuals with a strong emphasis on healing from trauma, goal orientation, behavioral redirection, and addressing issues with self-esteem and negative thoughts. Our sessions will cover a plethora of values including interpersonal and personal values, familial relationships, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs and how these things, in turn, affect your attitudes, behaviors, and overall quality of life.
My central philosophy is this – you are not broken, you do not need to be fixed. You need only to work towards making appropriate changes to help you to live a life that helps you to become the best version of yourself. Therapy is a roadmap , a GPS on life’s highway. It’s my job, as your GPS, to assist you, the driver, in reaching your destination. With time, effort, and a little direction, I am confident that you will find your way. When the brain and the heart reach an agreement on where they need to be, healing begins. ~Your Friendly Neighborhood Therapist
Emily Alvarado CSW
Therapist
Kentucky (Lexington)
Hi, I’m Emily. If you’re feeling like everything isn’t okay right now, you’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. As a queer therapist, I’m committed to creating a space where you can show up just as you are–messy, honest, curious, guarded, hopeful, or anything in between. In practice, I primarily work with teens and young adults, especially those navigating complex PTSD, early attachment trauma, and the unique perspective that comes with being neurodivergent. However, anyone is welcome at my door.
Whether you’re sorting through old wounds or just trying to get through the day, I’m here to help you make sense of your experience and reconnect with yourself. My approach draws from EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Somatic, and Coherence Therapy–modalities that I believe help us move beyond coping and into true healing.
I believe in meeting people where they are and honoring the wisdom they already carry. My hope is that you leave each session feeling seen, supported, and a little more grounded in who you are.
JESS EVERS, MA, LCSW
Clinical Lead/ Therapist - Accelerated Resolution Therapy Provider
Hopkinsville KY and Clarksville TN
Asking for help isn't easy and I believe that what we cannot do ourselves, we can do together. Life can be challenging and painful at times. I choose this work because I believe there is strength in support, connection, and community. I am interested in helping individuals find hope and meaning in their lives, build resiliency, and ignite their full potential. Collaboration to seek empowerment and engagement in your own therapeutic experience is vital. I pursue this by providing a safe, non-judgmental space to share yourself authentically and explore what you want to accomplish for your mental wellbeing. I don’t believe in the word ‘normal’ and I love to help people see those qualities in themselves and apply them in positive and useful ways.
I am a veteran, so I am familiar with the military lifestyle. While serving I worked with victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. I also have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and those suffering with addiction. I tend to use a cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and systemic
approach in my practice to reach wellness. My personal experiences provide insight on how to honor the unique qualities of each individual I work for. When clients choose to work with me, they gain an automatic ally who is ready to listen with unconditional acceptance and offer support in this journey we call life!
KELLI MORRISON, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
Kentucky (telehealth)
I reside in East Tennessee and provide medication management and brief, person-centered psychotherapy services through telemedicine for the patients of Lionheart Trauma Support Services. I have been a registered nurse for the last eight years and have been an advanced practice nurse for almost four of those eight. I started my nursing career in the emergency department where I discovered I would much rather listen to a patient’s story than seek out an adrenaline rush; thus, my love for psychiatry was born.
I received my MSN from the University of South Alabama in 2017 and have completed the majority of my DNP at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society and hold certifications as a Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Certified Emergency Nurse.
While I enjoy all aspects of psychiatry, I especially enjoy working with emotional trauma and conditions involving a neuro-traumatic or neurodegenerative etiology such as post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), among others. I am at present time attempting to develop the remainder of my doctoral capstone, focusing on routine screening of athletes in contact sports for symptoms of CTE.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband and son, my four cats (Boo-Boo, Blossom, Schrodinger, and Murray the Tri-Pawed) and my dog Layla. I am also a musician and self-proclaimed nerd. I love to sing, remix music, and am attempting to learn the ocarina. I also enjoy Dungeons and Dragons, painting minis for gaming campaigns, and have an affinity for digital mysteries such as Cicada 3301.
I treat all my patients with respect and compassion and attempt to maximize positive outcomes through the latest evidence-based practice research and collaboration.
I look forward to working with you!
DAWN SEAMANDS, LCSW
Therapist
Kentucky (Lexington)
I have been working with individuals and families in crisis for over 20 years. I have been able to work in a variety of settings but my true passion is to be in a clinical environment, where those suffering from trauma, unhealthy relationships, thoughts or behaviors, are able to find hope, maybe for the first time. I understand that it takes courage to trust someone enough to let them into the very private and painful parts of life.
Life is not easy. There can be obstacles and challenges. But healing and change are possible and you are not in this alone. I am committed to providing a safe environment where clients can be open and honest with what they're going through. It is my desire to offer genuine warmth and compassion to every person I have the privilege to work with. Each person has a story - and as I seek to understand yours, you will be accepted and heard, encouraged and supported. The counseling process is a partnership and I look forward to partnering with you in your journey.
When I am not in the counseling room, I enjoy being home with a good book and a cup of coffee and spending time with my family. I have been married for 21 yrs. and have an 18 yr. old son and a 17 yr. old daughter.
ROBERT CROCKETT, M.A. LPCC
Counselor
Kentucky (Telehealth)
Hello! My name is Robert and I’m an LPCA at LionHeart working on obtaining my LPCC and becoming independently licensed. I got both of my degrees from Eastern Kentucky University, my Bachelor’s is in Psychology and my Master’s is in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Before coming to Lionheart I worked in substance abuse for a year in an inpatient/outpatient treatment center and before that, I completed my internship at an outpatient substance abuse treatment center. When it comes to my counseling style I am laid back during sessions but still remain professional which can help my clients feel more comfortable and help in building rapport. During the session, I focus on the person using techniques such as person-centered, CBT, solution-focused, and REBT to help the client express themselves, process their emotions/feelings, and allow them to know that they are heard and valued as a person.
While my background is in substance abuse and recovery my main focus and interest is working in the field of trauma and clients who are in the LGBTQ+ community. As a member of the community myself I want to be able to help others who are in the community who would prefer to be seen by someone who can understand the unique struggles and problems that come from being LGBTQ+. I also have experience working with a variety of mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar, as well as helping others through grief and loss.
During sessions, I will meet you where you’re at and work from where you are in that moment and what you want to work on. I am working for you and to help you so you get to decide where our sessions go and the focus of them. I want my clients to leave my sessions with new insight and have learned something about themselves that they did not know before.
Haley Hensley, LPCA
Counselor
Kentucky (Lexington)
Hi there! I’m Haley. I completed both my bachelors in psychology and masters in clinical mental health counseling from Lipscomb University in Nashville, as well as a year long internship at a local private practice. I began working at that practice after graduating, but I quickly found myself missing the comforts of the bluegrass. So, I moved back here to Lexington, KY, my hometown. I am thrilled to continue my work, further my knowledge, and help serve the people of central Kentucky. Working with me in therapy looks a little different for every client. I always prioritize the issues that feel most important to you each week, whether that be present-day stress or trauma from many years ago. Along with trauma work, I also love to work with teens and adults with ADHD. I use solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and person-centered techniques. However, I always keep in mind that the trusting relationship built between a client and therapist can provide more healing than any technique. I know seeking therapy can be frightening, especially if you’ve never participated in it before. Taking the first step is often the hardest part of the process, but it’s also so rewarding. And it’s a choice you won’t regret. I am so excited to work with you through your life challenges and cheer you on each week!
Laura Beth Vance, CSW
Therapist
Kentucky (Hopkinsville)
Hi, I’m Laura Beth, a Certified Social Worker (CSW). I know that reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I work with children, teens, and adults who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck, uncertain, or weighed down by difficult emotions.
In our work together, I create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood. I draw from approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients build coping skills, manage emotions, and move toward the life they want to live. My goal is to help you feel more balanced, resilient, and connected to what matters most to you.
Outside of sessions, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, playing games, and exploring new places. Taking the step to start therapy is an act of courage, and I would be honored to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing and growth.
BEN HUNDLEY, MA, LPCC
Counselor
Kentucky (Lexington)
My primary focus in counseling centers on Anxiety and Depression along with Relationships. As human's I believe that we are relational beings and therefore are in a constant process of always relating every second of the day. I believe we relate to; People, Objects, Circumstances, Thoughts, and Feelings. Depending on how we relate I believe it can lead to an assortment of forms of painful thoughts emotions that hinder us. Or it can lead to freedom and true peace of mind. I take great joy in inviting people to examine the ways they "relate" and coming to a different way of relating that leads to freedom and serenity.
I have expertise in the following primary areas; Anxiety, Depression, Relationships(Single, Romantic, Family), Struggles with negative moods and thoughts, Spirituality.
As a person that struggles with; anxiety, depression, codependency, and negative mood and thoughts, I have a full complete understanding that the journey to freedom takes courage and sacrifice. With that, I wish to walk alongside you in it. (Ben Hundley is an LPCC here in Lexington, KY. I have a Masters in Counseling and is pursuing a MA in Theology at Asbury
PAIGE VAN TIL, M.A., LPCC
Counselor
Kentucky (Lexington)
Hello! My name is Paige, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate at Lionheart’s Lexington office.
I received my master’s in counseling and human development from Lindsey Wilson College in 2022. Previously, I have worked as Community Living Support for individuals with disabilities, in inpatient psychiatric, and as a Targeted Case Manager.
As therapy is not one size fits all, I take a person-centered approach, and pull from different treatment modalities (most often Humanistic, DBT, CBT, and REBT), based on my client’s individual needs. I feel it is important to bring my authentic self to our sessions and I am open about my own struggles with anxiety.
Mental health and psychology have been long standing passions of mine. Learning the different theories and obtaining the language to better describe and understand patterns of behavior has helped me attempt to experience the world with curiosity and empathy.
Life comes with struggles and obstacles that we may never have anticipated. Navigating these challenges can be daunting but it can be easier with the right support. For a lot of people, reaching out for help can be just as difficult as the healing process itself. This is another reason why it’s important to me that I am authentic with my clients.
I am passionate about supporting individuals with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and those leaving abusive relationships. I currently work with individuals ages eleven and up and lead DBT group therapy. I see clients both in person and via telehealth.
Outside of the office, I enjoy reading, watching movies, thrift shopping, and making art. I love buying gifts for people, discussing nerd culture, and playing Mario Kart! I am married and have a rambunctious dog, nieces and a nephew, and some amazing friends and family.
NICHOLAS (Nick) JENKINS, LPCC
Counselor
Kentucky (Lexington)
I am committed to supporting individuals as they navigate the challenges of their emotional, relational, and psychological lives. While I draw on a foundation of spirituality, I am deeply open to working with people from all belief systems and backgrounds. My approach is centered on compassion, understanding, and honoring the inherent worth of each person. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals from all walks of life can explore healing and growth.
I specialize in working with trauma and spirituality, and I have a passion for helping clients explore and address issues related to identity, depression/anxiety, dissociation, neurodivergence and existential concerns, supporting them with sensitivity and care as they navigate these deeply personal areas.
I hold a degree in Mental Health Counseling from Asbury Theological Seminary, where I developed a strong foundation in blending evidence-based practices with a compassionate, person-centered philosophy. My approach includes significant influences from relational psychodynamic therapy, internal family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I approach every client as a unique individual, tailoring my methods to meet their specific needs and honoring their capacity for growth and resilience.
Through our work together, I aim to help clients untangle complex emotions, thoughts, and internal dynamics, allowing them to uncover new paths to self-understanding and empowerment. By exploring how the past informs the present, I strive to help clients break free from unhelpful patterns and cultivate healed relationships—with themselves, others, and the world around them.
At Lionheart Trauma Support Service, I am committed to helping each person I work with step into their healthiest, most authentic self. Wherever you are on your journey, I am here to support you with compassion, expertise, and care.
Kiesha Quinonez, LPCA
Councelor
Kentucky (Hopkinsville)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with over 23 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have served in a wide range of settings, including DCBS, psychiatric hospitals, group homes, children’s advocacy centers, and a homeless shelter. My husband and I were also foster parents for six years. In addition, I have worked as a case manager and, most recently, spent the past seven years as a school-based mental health counselor supporting middle and high school students.
I live with my husband, our two young adult children, and our three furry kids. Two years ago, as my son began his college journey, I returned to school myself, attending Lindsey Wilson College to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming fully licensed as an LPCC.
My passion lies in supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals, teens, survivors of sexual abuse, and those healing from trauma, though I am honored to work with clients from all walks of life. Coming from a multicultural family—with my children being second-generation Mexican-Americans—and having walked my own long road toward healing, I bring both professional expertise and deep personal understanding to my work. I believe that life experiences are powerful teachers and have deeply shaped my approach to therapy.
I primarily use a person-centered approach, believing that the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of success in therapy. Building strong rapport with my clients is my top priority. While person-centered therapy is my foundation, I also integrate techniques from a variety of other theories to best meet each client’s unique needs. I strive to provide a completely judgment-free zone where clients feel safe and supported.
My mission is to help others heal earlier in life so they can live fulfilling, empowered lives without being held back by past wounds. I am active in the community and passionate about bringing more resources to minority teens so they can feel seen, supported, and hopeful in our small community.
Sarah Mack, CSW
Therapist
Kentucky (Lexington)
Hi, I’m Sarah Mack, a mental health therapist passionate about working with children, adolescents, and individuals of all ages. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s in Social Work from Eastern Kentucky University and have been in the mental health field for five years. My experience includes targeted case management, where I supported children and families in navigating mental health systems and accessing resources, which deepened my understanding of the challenges they face.
I am trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy and use a variety of evidence-based approaches tailored to each client’s needs. I take a holistic, collaborative approach, ensuring my clients feel safe, supported, and empowered. I aim to help children and families explore emotions, build resilience, and develop practical coping skills.
I offer school-based and in-office therapy, working closely with families, educators, and other professionals to provide well-rounded care.
Outside work, I enjoy spending time in nature, playing board and video games, and connecting with friends and family. I also have two dogs who bring me so much joy!
NICK PORRITT , Marriage and Family Therapy - Associate
Councelor
Kentucky (Lexington)
I work with individuals, children/teenagers (3-17), families/supports, and couples. I believe that people are able to work through the difficulties in life easier when they have consistent and empathetic support around them. My goal is to provide people with the skills necessary to effectively work through their difficulties both in and out of the therapy session. In the session, you can expect a space that is non-judgmental, collaborative, and focused on personal growth.
I have experience working in residential treatment facilities for youth and young adults who have behavioral issues, trauma histories, anxiety, depression, and more. I have also had experience working with their families and other supports to help youth grow in their relationships and thrive as individuals.
For couples who are seeking to better their relationship, I use Relationship Enhancement to help couples build empathy and communication. Couples therapy allows partners to be equipped with the tools needed to develop a healthy relationship while discovering each other’s perspectives in a collaborative space.
ELISHA JOHNSON LPCC, CSAT
Councelor
Kentucky (Lexington)
I work with a variety of clients to help them improve their relationships and quality of life. The majority of my work is in relationships with others and self, along with general issues and situations life brings our way.
I offer couples counseling and specialize in working with sex addiction and partners who have experienced infidelity. Betrayal of any kind is painful. The damage associated with finding out that what you believed about your life is no longer your reality and not knowing how to start to put your life back together is traumatizing. You are not alone. It is truly my heart to see people experience the freedom, hope, and healing that I know is possible.
ROBBIE MCGEHEE, LCSW
Therapist -Advanced and Enhanced Accelerated Resolution Therapy Provider
Kentucky (Hopkinsville)
I am a 2014 graduate of Western Kentucky University, where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. After working in different social work positions, I returned to WKU and graduated with honors in 2021 with a Master of Social Work degree. Both my personal and professional values align with those of the National Association of Social Workers, meaning my primary mission is to enhance the well-being of others.
I believe we live in an ever-changing world and are frequently exposed to events that alter the way we regulate our emotions. Therapy is a safe place to explore and improve emotional regulation. I utilize a strength-based approach, as well as CBT, DBT, and TF-CBT. I believe my clients are their own experts. I am simply here to guide them in becoming the best versions of themselves. I have experience working with those who have been subjected to traumatic events, depression, and anxiety, among other mental health symptoms/disorders. I have a special interest in working with persons facing substance abuse challenges and disrupted attachments (such as foster care, adoption, child/parent loss), as well as first responders and immigrants. I am fluent in Spanish. I enjoy hosting therapy sessions utilizing the Spanish language when it is in the client's best interest.
Keilee Daubon, MS
Counselor
Tennessee (Clarksville)
Hi! I’m Keilee, and I am honored to serve the Clarksville community as a mental health
therapist. I graduated with my Master of Science in Counseling from Austin Peay State
University and am currently working toward my license as a Licensed Professional Counselor
with the Mental Health Service Provider designation (LPC-MHSP). I work from a person-
centered counseling perspective: My clients are at the center of the therapeutic process, and I
strive to empower them to take charge of their own healing and discover their self-worth. I am
experienced in Child-Centered Play Therapy and specialize in working with children and
adolescents regarding issues of trauma, family and peer relationships, personal identity, self-
esteem, anxiety, depression, and grief. I also work with caregivers on strengthening their
parenting skills and relationships with their children.
I understand that therapy can be intimidating, but I am committed to walking alongside my
clients as a fellow traveler on the road of life and providing a safe and welcoming space in which
they can feel seen, cared for, heard, understood, and delighted in. Life is both beautiful and
painful, and it is possible to hold these truths together while choosing to find and harness the
beautiful to endure through the painful. I find it a tremendous privilege to help my clients work
toward this balance and grow more into their whole authentic selves.
Mandy Stout MA
Counselor
Tennessee (Clarksville)
I’m a therapist dedicated to helping people confront and heal from their challenges, and I do that by blending empathy, humor, and a bit of challenge when needed. My approach is grounded in evidence-based techniques, ensuring that what we work on together is effective and personalized.
I believe therapy should feel like a collaborative journey, where I’m not just here to listen but to really engage with you. I’ll be there to offer support and understanding, but I won’t hesitate to push you out of your comfort zone to help you grow. Let’s work together to create real change.
STACY BLAS
Targeted Case Manager Supervisor, Administrative Assistant
Lexington, KY
Hello, my name is Stacy Blas. I was born and raised in Southeastern Kentucky where I have resided the majority of my life. I have always had a passion for working with people. I am a helper by nature. I have worked with diverse communities ranging from geriatric patients in a residential rehabilitation setting, hospital setting and end of life Hospice care as a nursing assistant to working as an Office/Case Manager in a women’s residential substance use treatment facility assisting clients struggling with substance use and other mental illnesses. I earned my bachelor’s degree in human services from Lindsey Wilson College in 2020. As a dedicated human services advocate, I am driven by a deep commitment to empower individuals facing life’s challenges and I am committed to supporting individuals and families facing complex challenges. My passion lies in helping clients navigate the healthcare and social services systems, ensuring they receive the necessary resources to improve their well-being. My skills and approach include but are not limited to: trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, crisis intervention, cultural competence, and holistic care. I recognize the impact of trauma on mental health and substance use. I encourage positive change through empathetic conversations and believe in addressing the whole person—physical, emotional, and social well-being. I have a strengths-based approach, focusing on our ability as people to persevere using our strengths and resilience. Ultimately, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve. My mission is to empower individuals to find hope, overcome challenges, build resilience and to be a beacon for those navigating life’s storms.
Michelle West, MA
Counselor
Tennessee (Clarksville)
I am a trauma-informed therapist who believes healing begins in relationships where clients feel safe, understood, and valued. I provide a supportive space for individuals to explore their experiences, process difficult emotions, and strengthen emotional regulation. My approach emphasizes attachment, co-regulation, and the importance of a calm, responsive therapeutic relationship that fosters resilience, growth, and overall well-being.
I have experience supporting children, adolescents, and families in residential facilities, schools, crisis response settings, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs. I have specialized training in play therapy interventions, including sand tray therapy, and often use Child-Centered Play Therapy approaches that help clients safely express emotions and process experiences in developmentally meaningful ways.
I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from Austin Peay State University and an Educational Specialist degree in Counselor Education from The University of Alabama. I am currently a pre-licensed clinician working toward full licensure and am committed to helping clients navigate a wide range of challenges while building emotional resilience, self-awareness, and well-being.
Patty Orders, MS, LPC-MHSP(t)
Counselor
Tennessee (Clarksville)
I am committed to helping people make positive, long-lasting changes in their lives. My approach to counseling is grounded in evidence-based therapeutic practices, emphasizing personalized treatment plans and empathetic support. Passionate about fostering a collaborative environment to promote mental well-being and continuously advancing my skills to enhance client outcomes, it is my belief that everybody is doing the best with the tools they currently have. My hope is to offer perspective and new tools to aid clients in reaching their goals in their journey towards holistic wellness.
Amanda Benton
Medical Insurance Billing Specialist
Hey there! My name is Amanda, and I’ve worked in healthcare for over 20 years. My journey began as a Surgical Technologist, where I first discovered my passion for helping patients. Being directly involved in patient care showed me how important it is to support people through every step of their healthcare journey. Today, as a Medical Insurance Billing Specialist, I continue that support by making the billing process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
I’ve always loved solving puzzles and mysteries, and that’s exactly how I approach insurance. Whether it’s reducing claim rejections or speeding up payment cycles, I find joy in diving into the details and finding the best solutions. My goal is to make the process easier for you, so you can focus on your health and recovery without the added stress of insurance issues. I’m here to make sure you feel supported and confident throughout the billing process, every step of the way.
When I’m not working, I’m a proud mom of three amazing kids and recently became a MiMi to my first grandchild. I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time with my family. I’m also a huge fan of board games—there’s nothing like a little friendly competition to bring people together! Family is everything to me, and I love making memories with my loved ones, whether it’s through a game night or a family outing.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. I look forward to the opportunity to help you navigate the billing process with ease and confidence!
Kelly Dawson CSW
Accelerated Resolution Therapy Provider
Hopkinsville KY and Clarksville TN
Hi, I’m Kelly! I’m a 2024 graduate of Austin Peay’s Social Work program, currently working toward my LCSW. My journey into social work began in 2021, fueled by a lifelong connection to the military, coming from a large family of service members, my heart is in supporting our active-duty and veteran populations.
With 18 years of experience at the Department of Children’s Services and a background in both private practice and outpatient psychiatric care, I’ve seen firsthand how resilient the human spirit can be. I often tell my clients: you aren’t broken; you’re a disco ball. Just like stained glass or a mosaic, something beautiful can be refashioned from pieces that were once apart. When we shine a light on that journey, the whole room sparkles.
I know reaching out is hard, but as a dear friend once told me, “Pain shared is pain divided.” My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you don’t have to carry your struggles alone. Outside of the office, I enjoy quilting, baking, exploring, and spending time with my friends and family.
JOY PRICE
Administrative Assistant
My name is Joy! I am a graduate from South Carolina who has fallen in love with Kentucky and its people. I am happy to be assisting the community in any way I can. I have always believed that therapy should be a positive, safe experience free from bias, and I am excited to be involved in an environment that embodies that belief. Having experienced many of life’s challenges myself, I understand how important it is to have support. Never be afraid to reach out!