Contract Counselors
kristin dean
Hi, I’m Kristin! I am a Licensed Master Social Worker, currently working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the field for over 20 years, I spent most of my early career working in foster care and adoption in various roles. Most recently I have been working with single mothers, helping with the emotional transition, as well as teaching parenting and personal development. I am passionate about helping women experience the freedom that comes from rediscovering their identity during the many life transitions and/or events that can cause us to lose sight of it along the way. I love to learn and always want to be able to incorporate new ideas into my practice and am currently working toward my Perinatal Mental Health Certification.
One of my specialty areas is working with women during the pregnancy and postpartum period. I also have experience in the areas of infertility, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting, life transitions, conflict resolution, healthy relationships, and communication skills. The foundation of who I am as a person and a therapist stems from my faith; however, how much of that is incorporated into your therapeutic journey is up to you. I practice using cognitive behavioral therapy, strengths-based and trauma-informed perspectives. My goal is to provide a safe space where you will feel comfortable, welcome, and we can build a trusting relationship to work towards your personal growth.
My desire is to give you new perspectives, and tools that will empower you to achieve your goals. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my husband and five children. If we happen to have a weekend free from various sporting events, we enjoy traveling and simply being together.
Claudia Balatoni
LPC, NCC, EMDR Trained, Staff Clinician
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I am Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and EMDR-Trained. I am also a professional member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) and the Texas Counseling Association (TCA). I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Biblical Studies and a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
My multicultural upbringing and ability to speak English and Spanish fluently, have given me the opportunity to work with a diverse group of socio-economic populations on a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, panic disorders, self-esteem, adoption, parenting, domestic violence, suicide, physical and sexual abuse, women’s issues: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), infertility and Menopause. I primarily utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.
My counseling goals are to integrate research-based psychological principles with scriptural principles to help clients achieve their mental, emotional, physical, social, moral, and spiritual development by finding healing, transformation, and restoration to live a full and healthy life. I believe through daily struggles, God works to transform lives and to bring about ultimate purpose, hope, and healing (Romans 5:3-5).
I enjoy reading, teaching, the beach, travel, and spending time with my husband, daughter, family, and friends.
Certifications: Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts (SYMBIS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.
Pat Bramlett
Do you experience hurt or pain in marriage or other relationships that leave you feeling broken, unheard or invalidated. You may experience loneliness even in the midst of ongoing relationships. The pain and grief in the loss of a loved one can be difficult to navigate. As a woman you have unwanted and repetitive thoughts, need to be perfect, or crippling negative self talk that can leave you exhausted and confused.
I specialize in supporting women experiencing relationship problems, grief, anxiety, and trauma using EMDR, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, Christian principles, and prayer ministry. My goal is to help you develop a deeper understanding and strength to heal from your wounds and build new ways of living successfully in your everyday life.
I offer a place for you to feel safe being your true self and come alongside you to work through deep rooted beliefs, unhelpful patterns, or painful memories in order to experience a richer, fuller version of life
Dr. Connie Beckham
LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)
Hello, I’m Connie and I’ve been a marriage and family therapist for over 27 years! I am gifted in incorporating both my psychological and spiritual backgrounds into the therapeutic process. My passion is to see people experience freedom and growth as they come to understand their nature and nurture makeup. I have extensive experience in assisting couples in their marriages and helping adolescents face the challenges into adulthood. I have worked with hundreds of individuals and families in finding holistic solutions to complex problems and interpersonal relationship issues. I am also fully trained in EMDR and incorporate it into my practice as well.
I really love to continually set goals to challenge myself and grow— this Spring I earned my Doctorate in marriage and family counseling which was a huge accomplishment! When I’m not working with clients, you can find me spending time with my family (especially my grandbabies), taking my dog Samson on walks, and enjoying anything involving outdoor adventure.
![Woody Farrar<br />
Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor [LCDC (Lic #: 14343), LPC (Lic #: 79370)]](https://herwell.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/9-1.jpg "9")
Carly Kirk
LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)
Hi, I’m Carly! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in school-based social work. The start of my career included years of practicing in the school setting which has given me a unique perspective on working with adolescents and families that I am excited to bring to The Well.
I am truly thrilled that you are here on our page seeking out help in the form of therapy. I deeply value the therapeutic relationship and my goal is to provide a safe space where you feel genuinely heard, validated, and encouraged! My specialties include working with young teens to young adults and their families with an emphasis on identity and self-esteem, depression and anxiety, suicidal ideation, life transitions and relationship building— all through a trauma-informed lens.
Aside from my work with clients and managing our team, I love to spend my time with my growing family, gathering with dear friends, traveling to new places… and sipping coffee while doing all the above!
Holly Hungate
LPC-Associate
Supervised by Kelly Peyton, LPC-S, RPT-S
Hi, I’m Holly! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate that is working towards my Registered Play Therapist credential. I am passionate about working with young children, adolescents, and individual adults. My goal is to help people, no matter the age, navigate through the different circumstances and changing seasons of life we may go through.
I am trained in a variety of play therapy approaches that give children the space to work through current issues such as anxiety, depression, changing family circumstances, and behavioral issues. In addition to helping children with play therapy approaches, I also work with parents as a support to provide resources, education, and guidance.
Outside of working with clients, I enjoy going on runs outside, listening to podcasts, spending time at home with my husband and son, and organizing to create functional and beautiful spaces.
Amy Oxener
I specialize in working with children and teens showing ADHD symptoms, anxiety, or trauma to stop believing they have to fit the societal mold and begin healing and understanding themselves. My goal is to partner with you to help you feel less alone and more supported, gain understanding of your thoughts and behaviors, and build helpful and healthy skills to blossom in society.
I offer a nonjudgemental environment for you to fully express your needs. Let me help you bring calm to your overwhelm. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Theraplay level 1, and extensive training Adlerian Play Therapy.
Alyson Pertuis
My approach in counseling is to help clients with improving their whole self– physical, mental, spiritual and relational. I help with the challenges clients are facing by tapping into their resources and support network. I incorporate various therapeutic approaches appropriate to the client needs. I incorporate Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for rapid healing of trauma, anxiety, depression, complex grief and other issues. I honor where my clients are in their faith journey and address that spiritual healing as part of the therapy process. I provide online or in person sessions in McKinney, Texas.
I’m married and have three children (two adult-aged) and enjoy camping, serving at church and playing with my dog! My experiences throughout life have given me a depth of perspective for compassion and hope. It is a privilege to serve every person who comes to me for counseling, and I see their trust as a special gift!
Meka Smith
MA, BSN, RN Licensed Pastoral Counselor
Meka Smith is a dynamic, caring and compassionate woman of excellence with a heart for seeing God’s people free from emotional trauma. It is her heart to partner with clients in their journey to freedom and to assist in fostering a relationship with Christ! Meka is a Licensed Pastoral Counselor and Registered Nurse. Meka has served in various ministry leadership roles over the last 18 years. Meka also has over 20 years of experience as a healthcare professional where she has provided excellent care to patients and families. Meka holds a Master’s in Human Services Counseling with a specialty in Crisis & Trauma. Meka also holds two Bachelor’s degrees in healthcare fields.
Alba Villegas
Licensed Professional Counselor
My name is Alba Villegas and I offer both telehealth and in-person counseling services in Texas. I am originally from Venezuela and can happily help clients in both English and Spanish. I completed my undergraduate degree at The University of Houston and my Masters in Counseling Psychology at Houston Christian University. I have worked with teenagers, adults, and families in private practice settings, public mental health centers, senior living facilities, and juvenile justice centers. My passion and main services are guiding and supporting women, young adults and teenagers that want to make an intentional shift in their lives. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have had extensive training in Trauma, Mindfulness, Person-Centered therapy, Suicide intervention and Illness Management and Recovery.
I have dedicated my life to mental health because I truly believe that everyone deserves a fulfilling life and nobody should have to go through life’s struggles alone. Every individual has the power of changing any situation around with the right tools and support and I am blessed to share this journey with my clients.
Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all journey. I take the time to get to know my clients, explore their emotions, create a safe space, provide an individualized relationship, help develop personal goals and lend an unbiased hand to help people in their journey.
Jorge Mandujano
LPC- Associate
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with a deep passion for supporting
children, teens, and adults as they navigate their healing journeys. My focus is on helping those
who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorders, and more. I strive to create a
strong, supportive environment in every session, recognizing the importance of safety and trust
in the therapeutic process.
With a background as a collegiate soccer player at Houston Christian University, I bring the
discipline, resilience, and teamwork from the field into my therapeutic practice. I have extensive
training in Play Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy, and I am currently expanding my
expertise with training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). My
approach is centered on providing a nurturing space where you can explore your emotions and
experiences without fear of judgment.
I believe in the power of connection and the transformative potential of therapy. Fluent in both
English and Spanish, I am committed to providing culturally sensitive care to clients from
diverse backgrounds. Whether I’m working with children through play therapy or guiding adults
with attachment-focused and trauma-informed interventions, I am dedicated to offering the
highest quality of care. Together, we will work collaboratively to help you reach your goals and
live up to your highest potential, as I walk alongside you on your journey of growth, healing, and
self-discovery.
Cherese Kelley
Licensed Professional Counseling Associate under the Supervision of Elizabeth Pennington LPC-S
Cherese is a Christian Mental Health Counselor graduating with her Master’s from Houston Christian University. Cherese is currently a contracted Christian Mental Health Counselor at Happy Camper Child and Family Therapy and the founder of CK Administrative Consulting. Cherese is originally from Columbus, Ohio, and now resides in Houston, Texas with her Husband Billy Kelley, their two dogs and their latest addition of a new baby. Cherese is a millennial determined to do the will of God. She builds her life around 1 Corinthians 16:14, “Let all you do be done in love.” She believes when God’s love builds it, nothing can break it!
The calling on Cherese’s life as a Christian Counselor has allowed her to be certified in various therapeutic techniques for children, adolescents, and adults. At Happy Camper Child and Family Therapy a Christian-based Private Practice Cherese has been able to impact generations through Christ-centered therapy, EDMR therapy, Christian Counseling, and identifying levels of attachment through TBRI techniques, identity in Christ, boundaries, and relational/personal complex traumas such as abuse, adoption and serve disorders. Furthermore, through the greater Houston Cherese provides years of specialized experience in organizational restructuring, business processes, and project management. Cherese currently serves as Executive of Operations and Strategic Management for The Fellowship of Love Church in Richmond, TX through her Christian Consulting business. Cherese believes God has gifted her with a unique skill that helps organizations, churches, companies, and corporations worldwide align their vision through administrative execution and focus.
Cherese is excited and humble as God brings both her assignment and calling on her life together to uplift and unite the Kingdom!
Elizabeth Pennington
LPC-S, RPT, EMDRIA Approved Consultant
Elizabeth is a compassionate trauma therapist and educator, deeply committed to fostering healing in children and families. As an APT and EMDRIA-approved Trainer and Consultant, she is a resourceful cornerstone in the EMDR field, sharing her expertise with dedication and purpose.
Elizabeth’s training and consultation practice, Apollos Center for Training and Supervision, equips therapists with the tools they need to effectively treat even the most complex trauma clients. However, her innovative approach extends far beyond traditional therapy settings, providing customizable and individualized support. Happy Camper Child and Family Therapy, a nurturing space for aspiring therapists to hone their skills in treating complex trauma, offers holistic treatment with an attachment-focused philosophy.
Her guidance supports a compassionate community, empowering empathetic healers. Elizabeth’s Mobile Play Therapy Office, a converted Sprinter van that highlights her adaptable methods, brings EMDR and play therapy directly to the homes and schools of medically fragile and traumatized children in Houston.
Through her thoughtfully designed Nature-Based EMDR and Family EMDR Resourcing protocols, Happy Camper Child and Family Therapy is offering families and individuals innovative, holistic approaches to trauma recovery.
As a mother to eight children, Elizabeth understands the profound impact of family and connection. While she offers in-person services, Elizabeth also provides flexible telehealth options to those in Texas and Idaho, ensuring that healing is accessible to all.
Elizabeth’s dedication to healing and her approach to therapy make her a beacon of hope for children and families facing complex trauma. Through her work, she is not only providing essential support but also shaping the future of EMDR.
Courtney Ware
LCSW
Hi there, I’m Courtney, and I am so glad you’re here! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in School based mental health, crisis intervention, family advocacy, and child development. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space where we can welcome vulnerability and process through some of life’s challenging experiences. I believe in the strength of relationships and the transformation that can come when connecting with others.
I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, and adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational conflict. I utilize a trauma informed approach and a strengths based perspective. While working with clients I like to ensure that our sessions are client centered. I am here to walk alongside you and encourage you and my hope is you leave sessions feeling validated and empowered. Life is hard, and it would be an honor to work with you as we navigate the ups and downs and work to restore joy back into your life.
Outside of working with clients, I find comfort in spending time with my husband, family, friends, and especially snuggling with our dogs, Sadie and Frankie. I really enjoy traveling, reading, and exploring new coffee shops or restaurants.
I can’t wait to meet you and start this journey!
Amanda Martin
Ph.D. in Family Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, Board Certified in Neurofeedback, Eagala Mental Health Professional, EMDR Trainer, EMDRIA Certified Therapist, and Approved Consultant.
Amanda Martin has over 16 years of experience and specialize in working with people and families with trauma histories in residential and outpatient settings. In addition, I provide consultation for EMDR certification and EMDR Consultants-in-Trainings. I enjoy providing retreats and presentations for professionals and the community.
It’s my mission to help people find their healthy, joyful, and fulfilling path in life. I believe everyone has inner strengths and a purpose of significance in this world. My theoretical approaches include the Symbolic Experiential Therapy approach layered with Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, HeartMath, Animal-Assisted Therapy, EAGALA Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Neurofeedback, and Collaborative Problem-Solving.
Angie Sticker
LPC-Associate
Hi, I’m Angie Sticker, an LPC-Associate with 10 years of experience helping teens and families navigate life’s challenges. Now, I focus on working with adults, families, and couples dealing with anxiety, trust issues, communication struggles, and everything in between. My approach is trauma-informed, and I’m an Advanced Certified Trauma and Resilience Practitioner (ACTRP), with additional training in EMDR, IFS, CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SFBT. Whether you’re facing anxiety, trauma, trust issues, or communication challenges, I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space to help you heal.
I believe in meeting you where you are, listening without judgment, and offering practical tools to help you move forward and create the life you deserve. And if you need some extra comfort, my therapy dog, Charlie, is available to join sessions too! I offer both online and in-person sessions, including walk-and-talk therapy when the weather is nice, to make it easier for you to start your healing journey. If you’re ready to take that first step, I’d love to walk alongside you.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me outdoors, reading, hanging out with my pups, and spending quality time with family. Let’s work together to get you to a place where you feel supported, heard, and empowered.
Melinda Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Reboot
Do you experience depression, anxiety, chronic pain, low self-esteem, repetitive behaviors, impacts of abuse or relationship difficulties that seems to overshadow your day? Let’s work together to identify core negative beliefs that keep you from the life you want. Are you dealing with Trauma that is limiting your interactions with others, sleep disturbance, emotional numbing, avoidance or causing problems in your relationships? Would you be relieved to know there is a way to resolve trauma without talking about it?
It has been my privilege to work with Veterans, Active Duty Service Members and their spouses for the last five years. Working with combat Veterans and survivors of Military Sexual Trauma with PTSD, CPTSD, Depression and Anxiety brought understanding of the need to use interventions that were less traumatizing. Please inquire about special funding available for counseling for Veterans. Many of my clients have been 1st responders over the years. If you have been a victim of a crime in Texas and have an approved claim, I am a provider to Crime Victims Compensation Program. As a therapist, I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which uses the science of your brain and imagery to help resolve negative body sensations associated with stuck emotions and images. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to be heard. Mind, Body and Soul connections are important to healing. Let’s discover if your identity includes negative messages that you have come to believe are true. For those wishing to increase Soul connections we can work to consider your value system to increase alignment with your behaviors. Each person has the option as to whether to include spirituality as part of their treatment. For persons desiring to incorporate Christian principles and spiritual coping skills into your therapy experience, I am a believer and would be honored to encourage you on your journey.
I also use EMDR Therapy, Breathing and Relaxation skills, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you find new ground. I am trained in Gottman Method for couples counseling. This method is based on five decades of research into relationships. This method introduces conflict resolutions skills and helps form new habits to improve relationships.
Group Sessions
Reining Strength:
By partnering with horses, we help people realize their individual potential through customized equine-assisted services.
Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship is a Premier Accredited Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH Intl.). Providing equine-assisted services for people ages 2 and up – children and adults – who have physical, cognitive, social, or emotional needs.
All lessons are taught by a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH, Intl.) Certified Instructor.
Neurofeedback Brain Training
Myndlift
Neuroscience-based, personalized brain training for a better you.
Neurofeedback is a form of neurotherapy that trains your brainwaves toachieve a healthier state – kind of like exercise, but for your brain!
Neurofeedback uses EEG technology to measure your brainwave activity and offer you feedback on your performance in real time, through visual and/or auditory cues from videos or games.
This therapy option requires a payment of $20 per month to Myndlift.
