Our Counselors

Her Well Staff

Jennifer Street LCSW-S, CCTP, Clinical Development Team for ARISE Alliance Institute

Jennifer D. Street

MSW, LCSW-S, CCTP & HerWell Lead Counselor

Jennifer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, or LCSW. She received her Bachelor of Social Work degree from East Tennessee State University in 2002 and her Master of Social Work degree from Florida State University in 2006. She obtained her first license as an LCSW in 2010 and now holds an active license in multiple states (TX, FL, UT, VA, SC). Jennifer is an approved clinical supervisor in several states as well (FL, TX, UT). She achieved the designations of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and Master Certified Accelerated Resolution Clinician in 2010 and maintains those credentials. Jennifer became a professor of Social Work in 2009 and has taught at both the bachelor’s and master’s level for over 15 years. She is also trained in the EAGALA method of equine assisted learning and psychotherapy as well as Gottman Couples Therapy.

Contract Counselors

Brittany Fitzerald<br />
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate and Certified Family Life Educator

brittany fitzerald

LMFT-A

Hi, I’m Brittany! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate and Certified Family Life Educator. I am passionate about working with teen and adult individuals, couples, and families through a collaborative, trauma responsive approach. I believe therapy is about accessing safety. My hope is to walk alongside you as we explore safety in your internal world, your body, and your relationships. No topic is off limits as you invite me into your unique story. I am trained in EMDR and incorporate it into my individual therapy approach based on my clients’ goals. With couples, I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy, an evidence-based model for improving and deepening relationships. Some of my areas of interest include trauma processing, life transitions, identity development, and navigating conflict and attachment wounds.Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our family, going on walks with my Australian Shepherd, traveling, trying new restaurants, and getting a little too caught up in reality TV.I am currently under the supervision of Jessica Barboza, LMFT-S.

Melisa Smith is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary with an MA in Counseling.

Melisa Smith

Melisa is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary with an MA in Counseling. She’s a licensed minister and a licensed professional counselor associate leading groups for those who suffer from codependency, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. She’s counseled individuals and couples dealing with trauma, childhood sexual trauma, abuse, depression, facing end-of-life and terminal illness, LGBTQ+-related issues, family matters, and grief. Melisa takes a person-centered approach encouraging her clients through unconditional positive regard and motivational interviewing. She says she’s always been a storyteller, so she favors narrative therapy. She enjoys the experience of listening to her clients reframe their stories, creating a narrative that helps them to claim or reclaim their voice. Melisa has worked for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) formerly the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) where she coordinated victim impact panels to walk with those who lost loved ones through violent crime as they processed the grief and faced the offender who committed the crime against their loved ones and find closure. She also worked for the Advocacy Center for Crime Victims and Children in McLennan County serving as an advocate for sexual assault survivors. She brings a mixture of strengths and expertise to her role as a counselor to help those looking for healing.

Woody Farrar has been a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor since 2016 and a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2018. [LCDC (Lic #: 14343), LPC (Lic #: 79370)]

Woody Farrar

Woody Farrar has been a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor since 2016 and a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2018. [LCDC (Lic #: 14343), LPC (Lic #: 79370)]

Woody earned his BA in Sociology at the University of Houston (Main Campus); studied towards his Masters of Divinity at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; and earned his Masters of Counseling from Houston Graduate School of Theology.Woody served as an ordained Southern Baptist pastor and a non-denominational pastor for a total of 14 years.He is a veteran of the USAF.Woody has been married since 1978 and is the proud grandpa of identical twin teenage boys.Woody is a member of :• The American Counseling Association• The Texas Counseling Association• The American Association of Christian Counselors• The Association for Contextual Behavioral ScienceWoody is also an approved member of the Gottman Relationship Checkup tool from the Gottman Institute. Woody is listed on Psychology Today 

Woody’s heart is best summed up in this statement he wrote in 2017: “I believe everyone counts, everyone matters. I believe there are no “throw-away” persons, everyone is worth saving”. I entered treatment for my addiction in June of ’91 and I have remained sober ever since. I found freedom from my shame. I found healing from my childhood abuse and trauma. I found hope and serenity – you can too. I take you as you are – just as those who helped me took me as I was. I don’t judge you, I listen to you. I work with you to accomplish the goals you set. There is no need to live in shame anymore – you can find freedom and hope.
Woody’s primary focus is in helping people who have Substance Use Disorders (Addictions) and Process Addictions (Porn, Sex). Woody also focuses on relationships and infidelity.

Kristin Dean Licensed Master Social Worker

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.

Brittany Fitzerald<br />
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate and Certified Family Life Educator

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.

Melisa Smith is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary with an MA in Counseling.

Beth Alvarez

LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)

I am thankful to be a practicing Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas. My areas of specialty are childhood trauma (abuse, neglect, damaging roles, natural disasters), betrayal trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, grief and loss, life transitions and navigating roles with aging parents. I work with teens, women, married couples, and families.

I have always felt drawn to listen to people’s stories and seek to understand their unique experiences. My counseling experience started as a Child Life Specialist helping children and their families adjust to being in the hospital. I had the privilege to journey alongside young individuals and families facing depression, anxiety, grief, and loss. My experience continued as I worked with individuals and families trying to make sense and meaning of their own histories of trauma and abuse that seemed to have ripple effects significantly impacting their relationships and their quality of life.

As a clinician, I desire to create a safe, trusting environment for anyone seeking help and support. I sit with you knowing firsthand the desire to experience change, but not always knowing the path to take. I know the courage and humility it takes to reach out for help. My goal is to create an authentic, safe environment for you to explore new thoughts, ideas, and behaviors that will positively impact your relationships, your purpose, and your life. I believe in the empowerment of the individual and affirm that there is always hope for change.

I have been married to my husband since 2000 and we have four children. Through life, I have experienced vibrant mountaintop experiences as well as deep valleys. As women, we experience a variety of roles and relationships that are ever changing and evolving. Sometimes we need help maneuvering ongoing life changes and difficult phases. I consider it a great privilege to hear your story, speak into your life, and witness you discover the fulfillment and freedom that comes through healing.

I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 1 & 2 who is also fully trained in EMDR as well as the Meadows Model Post Induction Therapy (PIT). I use a variety of evidence based practices in order to assist my clients in experiencing growth and healing.

Pat Bramlett | Ispecialize in supporting women experiencing relationship problems, grief, anxiety, and trauma using EMDR, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, Christian principles, and prayer ministry

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

Kristin Dean Licensed Master Social Worker

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)]

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 | Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate that is working towards my Registered Play Therapist credential.

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 | 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.

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 | Her Well contracted counselor

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<br />
MA, BSN, RN Licensed Pastoral Counselor<br />

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.

meka smith<br />
MA, BSN, RN Licensed Pastoral Counselor<br />

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.

meka smith<br />
MA, BSN, RN Licensed Pastoral Counselor<br />

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.

meka smith<br />
MA, BSN, RN Licensed Pastoral Counselor<br />

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 Christian 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!

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 Therapy

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.