WE DO THIS BECAUSE WE LOVE IT
Our business is built on love. We’re dreamers and doers who believe in relentlessly exploring what’s possible. We’re passionate, playful and deeply invested in following our clients along on their wellness journey to living a life they love.
Madelyn Miller
MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Madelyn Miller, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Madelyn received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate and a National Certified Counselor. In addition, she received her Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Western Carolina University in 2006. She received her special education certification from East Carolina University in 2010 and taught special education for almost 10 years. Madelyn is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors. She has experience working with children, teens, and adults with a variety of issues. Madelyn’s approach in sessions is to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment that fosters trust and growth for the client. She believes that building a relationship is a key component of the counseling process. She uses an eclectic model of counseling, integrating client-centered treatment with diverse methodologies. Because each person is unique, Madelyn tailors her approach to her clients’ specific individual needs and goals. When Madelyn is not working, she likes spending time with her family, traveling, and being outside.
Jonathan Atkinson
LMFT
Jonathan Atkinson, LMFT
Jonathan is a graduate of Pfeiffer University with a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2021 and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2015. He is an NC Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. He has prior experience with older members of the blind and visually impaired community during his time working as a counselor at Camp Dogwood. He assisted the campers with their enjoyment of the camp through various activities from arts and crafts to mini golf and the occasional trip to nearby museums. He completed his clinical internship at the Adult Rehabilitation Center of Charlotte provided by The Salvation Army assisting men with a better understanding of their anger and other emotions as they work through their recovery from addiction. He recognizes the impact and role of addiction on the individual and the family system. He utilizes elements of cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, Bowenian, and structural-based therapy interventions with his clients. He enjoys working with teenagers, adults, and couples who are experiencing struggles as they attempt to work through the various challenges that come with life or living with anxiety and depression. When he is not working, Jonathan enjoys spending time at the gym, hanging out with friends, enjoying the latest Marvel film, and spending time in nature.
Sheena Beach
MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Sheena Beach, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Sheena is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte-School of Social Work with a Master’s degree in Social Work in 2015 and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 2014. She is an NC Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an SC Licensed Independent Social Worker. Sheena is an alumnus of the SAMSHA and CSWE Minority Fellowship Program-Youth which provided training on emerging, evidence-based practices in the clinical treatment of children, adolescents, and transition-aged youth with behavioral health concerns. She is passionate about the treatment of youth and young adults and provides services for clients aged 10 and up. Sheena has prior experience as a school-based mental health therapist providing therapeutic care to school-age children and their families. She has an affinity for supporting multicultural communities, the LGBTQ+ population, and working with neurodivergent teens and adults. Sheena has nonprofit experience from interning and volunteering with Communities in Schools where she served children at risk for dropping out and their families. She completed a clinical internship with Mecklenburg County working with children and families who have experienced domestic violence. Sheena is a Behavioral Tech Intensively-trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Radically Open-DBT (Level 1) trained, and EMDR-trained. She utilizes elements of cognitive-behavioral, expressive art, mindfulness, and acceptance-commitment-based therapy interventions with her clients. Sheena also enjoys serving adults having trouble adjusting to life’s difficulties or living with anxiety, depression, or personality disorder. When she is not working, Sheena enjoys crafting, spending time with friends and family, being outdoors, yoga, and reading.
Taylor Brant
MS, LMCHC, CRC
Taylor Brant, LMCHC, CRC
Taylor received her Master of Science degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Honors Psychology from Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, NY. Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHC-A) and a Clinical Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) who has worked with individuals with eating disorders, PTSD, and serious mental illnesses. She has experience in a wide range of clinical settings, including psychological research studies, residential treatment facilities, and community mental health services.
Taylor views therapy as a collaborative and open space – where our deepest hurts, fears, and hopes can be expressed freely, and where we can better understand ourselves, our relationships, and life’s challenges. She utilizes techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy but enjoys incorporating a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet each client’s unique situation and goals. She is passionate about working with adolescents and young adults (14+) who experience low self-esteem, life transitions, eating disorders, and trauma/PTSD.
Caila Carter
MA, LCMHC-A
Caila Carter, MA, LCMHC-A
Sarah Causey
MA, LMFT
Sarah Causey, MA, LMFT
Lalanea Chastain
MPA, MSW, LCSW
Lalanea Chastian, MPA, MSW, LCSW (Licensed Social Worker)
Courtney Craven
MA, LCMHC
Courtney Craven, MA, LCMHC-A
In 2017, Courtney graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology of Counseling and Human Development. She completed her Master of Arts at Lenoir-Rhyne University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2021. Courtney is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. She recognizes the courage it takes to seek help. Because of that, she strives to create a safe and inviting atmosphere for all of her clients. She believes that people have the capacity to change. Her approach to therapy revolves around meeting people where they’re at to help them build the support they need to make changes. Courtney views therapy as an equal working relationship between individuals. She believes that everyone who makes the courageous decision to sit in front of her should be met with kindness and empathy. She incorporates Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) according to her client’s needs. Courtney’s expertise is working with those who have a hard time putting words to what they are experiencing through experiential therapy. This could be a good fit for those for whom traditional talk therapy has not worked well. She also provides faith-based therapy from a Christian perspective upon request. This could be a good fit for someone who is struggling with their faith and wants a safe place to work through it or in need of encouragement with their faith. Courtney has experience working with males and females aged 15 years and up. In her downtime, she enjoys rock climbing, playing with her dog, and reading.
Apiffany Gaither
MS, LCMHC
Apiffany Gaither, MS, LCMHC
Jonathan Hardin
MA, NCC, LCMHC
Jonathan Hardin, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Kimberly B. Krueger
MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, DBT-LBC
Kimberly Krueger, MSW, LCSW
Cahner Manns
MSW, LCSW
Cahner Manns, MSW, LCSW
Leona McLean
M.Ed., B.A.
Leona McLean, Counseling Coach, 504 and IEP Consultant, and Parent DBT Coach
Leona obtained her Masters degree in Counseling at Liberty University and is a Licensed Counselor. She is a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the North Carolina School Counseling Association (NCSCA). She is a North Carolina and International Licensed Teacher and has a Certificate in Education from St. Martin’s College in Lancaster, England. She has 22 years experience teaching in London, England and Public, Private, and Charter schools in North Carolina. She also has a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Waterloo, Canada. With her experience in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Based Counseling, and completing her internships both at Southlake Counseling and in North Carolina Schools, Leona is excited to offer clients:
DBT Skills Coaching for Individual and Groups;
504, IEP, BIP, MTSS Consultant;
Parent and Family Coaching;
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Teens Groups;
Mom’s Support Group;
Emotion Coaching;
Couples Coaching;
High conflict divorce/separation Coaching;
New Ways For Families Program;
Mental Health Coaching.
She is foundationally trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) through Behavioral Tech. created by Marsha Linehan. She works with DBT adolescent, parent, and adult groups, individual DBT skills, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction for Teens groups. She is a certified Symbis Facilitator which allows her to conduct couples therapy and assessment. She has been trained in Autism awareness, neurofeedback, brain mapping, seizure protocol, suicide prevention, and cyberbullying.
Her experience as a Clinician and an Educator have strengthened her skills to communicate and develop a rapport with parents, families, and students of all ages. These relationships are instrumental in confirming her desire to pursue a career in counseling.
Leona has experience working in schools as an Educator and a School Counselor. She is Licensed in both fields and conducts 504 and IEP consultations with families and the school. She can work with the family and go through the steps and make sure the student’s needs are being met in the school environment. Packages are available.
She enjoys working with children 7 and up as well as teens, young adults, parents, adults, and families. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, suicide, personality disorder, post traumatic disorder, substance abuse, divorce/separation, neglect and abuse, childhood trauma, family dysfunction, grief, eating disorders, and self esteem. Her approach is using Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Family therapy, Person Centered therapy, Solution-Based therapy, and mindfulness techniques. She uses her skills to assist clients on their journey of self-discovery, so they have positive self-esteem, independence, and strategies needed to tackle different issues. Her clients can feel reassured, cared for, and understood that their needs are a priority. She is compassionate and committed to helping others to achieve their goals and find fulfillment in their life’s journey.
When she is not working, she enjoys traveling, cooking, supporting her children in their sports activities, spending time with her family and playing with her dog, Chewy.
Nimisha Merchant
LCMHC-A
Nimisha Merchant, LCMHC-A
Nimisha graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
and a minor in biology in 2019. She then obtained her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling from Wake Forest University in 2022. Nimisha is a North Carolina board-certified
licensed clinical mental health counselor associate (LCMHC-A). She has also completed her 200
hour- yoga teacher training to deepen her understanding of the mind-body connection. Nimisha’s
aspiration to become a counselor is rooted in her desire to assist individuals in dealing with their
everyday life, to normalize expressing feelings, and to eliminate the negative stigma that relates
to therapy and mental health. Nimisha draws from a few differential theoretical bases, including
mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, person-centered therapy, and existential therapy
approaches. She has experience working with individuals suffering from grief, anxiety,
depression, substance use disorders, relationship issues, and life transitions. Her approach to
therapy is to help individuals reach their fullest potential, and that journey begins with self-love.
In Nimisha’s free time, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, yoga, working out,
gardening, reading, cooking, and being out in nature with her dog.
Johnia Murray
MA, LCMHC-A
Johnia Murray
Johnia graduated from North Carolina State University with her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2015. She is also a 2022 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with her Master’s in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration and worked as a graduate assistant for the University Center of Academic Excellence with a focus on Learning Strategies and Instruction. Johnia is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor – Associate in the state of North Carolina. Johnia understands the struggle that people face to acknowledge and then seek help. With this in mind, she recognizes the importance of having a safe haven to approach vulnerability and creates such a space for all of her clients. While believing that people have the capacity to change, Johnia believes that the individual must want it first. In order to get there, Johnia approaches therapy in a way that is compassionate and empathetic, yet firm so that clients are empowered to show themselves their own strength. She is a person-centered therapist who blends skills and techniques from various forms of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to the needs of each individual client. Johnia has experience with clients aged 13 years and up. Her experience includes, yet is not limited to, working with depression, anxiety, trauma, life adjustment, stress, self-esteem, and body image. When Johnia isn’t in the office, you can find her baking something sweet or savory in the kitchen, enjoying a good book on the patio, and spending time with loved ones.
Hannah Pegram
MSW, LCSW
Hannah Pegram, MSW, LCSW
Shaunda Randleman
MA, LCMHC
Shaunda Randleman, MA, LCMHC
Shaunda Randleman obtained her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2019. She also has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology with a minor in women’s and gender studies from Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC. Shaunda is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who utilizes a person-centered approach and an eclectic combination of acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy tailored to each client. Authenticity, empathy, and equity are values that drive Shaunda in her work with clients. Shaunda works with adults and teenagers 13 and up. She specializes in working with the LGBTQIAP+ population, including clients exploring sexual/romantic orientation, gender expression, and transition. Shaunda has experience working with grief/loss, trauma, crisis, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance abuse, and PTSD. Shaunda is affirming of all genders, races, nationalities, ages, and abilities. Shaunda loves spending time with her partner and family, including her 2 dogs and 2 cats. In her free time, Shaunda enjoys reading, dancing, and gardening. Shaunda believes deeply in self-care and finding time to do the little things in life that make you happy.
Emily Rollins
MSW, LCSW-A, LMSW
Emily Rollins , MSW, LCSW-A, LMSW
Emily Rollins, is a dedicated clinical therapist, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Furman University and a Masters of Social Work from the University of South Carolina. Her commitment to holistic healing is further enriched by her training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and certification as a 200-hour registered yoga teacher.
She specializes in personalized virtual sessions with individuals across all life stages, from children to adults, and extends her support to families navigating life’s complexities.
Emily’s expertise lies in weaving DBT for children, adolescents and adults with parent coaching and school support. This multifaceted approach underlines her beliefs in the power of resilience and personal growth.
Her philosophy as a therapist is anchored in the principle of meeting clients where they are. Emily recognizes that the journey to therapy is often paved with challenges that are difficult to articulate. In these times, she stands as a supportive ally, guiding her clients through their struggles. Her focus is on fostering a harmonious connection between body and mind, enhancing emotional awareness, and empowering her clients to flourish in areas where they seek change and support.
One of Emily’s notable professional achievements is the co-founding of a sensory-friendly yoga class. This unique initiative is designed for children and their caregivers, creating an environment for meaningful connection, self-regulation, and an understanding of the body-mind connection.
Outside her professional life, Emily is an avid yoga practitioner and teacher, a wife, and a mom. Her personal experiences have deeply ingrained in her the value of a supportive network. She believes in the importance of finding a therapist with whom you can genuinely connect, as this is a crucial step in one’s healing journey. Emily is here to be part of your support system, guiding you towards a path of wellness and self-discovery.
Jojo Hoffman Skinner
MA, LMFT, LCAS-A
Jojo Hoffman Skinner, MA, LMFT, LCAS-A
Dodi Wicks
RD, LDN, CNSC
Dodi Wicks, RD, LDN, CNSC
Ashley Turbeville
MA, LCMHC-A
Ashley Turbeville, MA, LCMHC-A
Shelby Thompson
MA, LCMHC-A
Shelby Thompson
MA, LCMHC-A
Shelby graduated from Catawba College with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, where she was a Student-Athlete on the Women’s Soccer Team. She then achieved her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2022. Shelby is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor- Associate in the state of North Carolina.
Shelby believes in creating a genuine, open, non-judgmental environment for all of her clients, understanding that each and every person is doing the best that they can. She enters the therapeutic relationship with a passion to support her clients, while withholding the foundational belief that everyone has the unique ability to reveal their empowerment and create their goals. Shelby counsels from a Person-Centered approach while implementing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, additionally integrating the collaboration of the mind, body, and environment.
Shelby has worked with adolescents and adults ages 12+, who sought support in anxiety, sport performance, depression, grief, self-harm, relationship building, life transitions, and eating disorders. She is passionate about working with individuals facing needs within sport performance, chronic illness or pain, obesity, eating disorders, anxiety, and grief. In her down time, Shelby enjoys weightlifting, coaching, and cooking. She is extremely passionate about advocating for Mental Health within the world of Athletics, striving to create change where change is needed.
Naila McConnell
MaEd in CMHC, LCMHC-A
Naila McConnell
MaEd in CMHC, LCMHC-A
Naila (she/her) is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA). She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Lander University (December 2018) and a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Degree from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (May 2022).
Naila chose to pursue counseling after an experience that led her to seek outside help. She was able to experience the positive impacts and life changes that came from seeing a counselor firsthand. Naila chose to enter a career in mental health because she wants to help people cope with the challenges that life brings them. Naila wants her work to make a positive impact and change in society. She has an eclectic approach to therapy implementing multiple approaches to be able to connect with each client and help aid in their journey.
Naila likes to utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Evidence-based Interventions. She operates from a strength-based approach, which empowers individuals to develop a stronger sense of self. She has experience with crisis intervention, outpatient therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. Naila is passionate about promoting overall wellness and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
She enjoys participating in activities that incorporate self-care and focus on the wellness of one’s body. Naila enjoys being with her dogs and loved ones, exercising, traveling, sports, outdoor activities, spending time near water and nature, as well as going on new adventures.
Andrea Beach
LCMHC-A, NCC
Andrea Beech
LCMHC-A, NCC
Andrea Beach is a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate, (LCMHCA), and nationally certified counselor, (NCC) at Southlake Counseling. She obtained her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health counseling at Gardner-Webb University in Charlotte, NC in 2023 her Bachelor of Science in psychology from Regent University in 2020. Andrea utilizes a person centered, strengths-based approach and has worked with children, adults, and couples. She has experience working with children, teens, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, substance-related disorders, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders; women struggling with low self-esteem and postpartum depression; and couples with communication issues.
Andrea tends to utilize elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT, and solution-focused therapy. She is also interested in learning more about the Gottman method in couples counseling. It is Andrea’s aspiration to work with couples, and adults ages 18 and up, to provide them with a safe space to be vulnerable, and to work alongside them as they find a working solution to whatever they are struggling with. Andrea enjoys integrating the Christian faith into the counseling process if the client desires it. In her free time, Andrea enjoys hiking with her husband and three children, running, reading mystery novels, and vacationing at Universal Studios.
Andrew Patterson
MSW, LCSW-A
Andrew Patterson
MSW, LCSW-A
Andrew Patterson is a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). He received his Master of Science in Social Work in 2023 from the University of Tennessee Knoxville with a clinical practicum focus. Before that, he received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2020 from Clemson University. He has experience working with older children, teens, and adults. During graduate school, he interned with the Member Emotional and Social Health program within the Boys and Girls Club of the Tennessee Valley and with the University of Tennessee’s Student Counseling Center as a psychotherapist. Through these experiences, Andrew has worked with many issues including depression, anxiety, social and emotional skill building, various forms of trauma, difficulty adjusting to life transitions, and anger management. Andrew works from a strengths-based approach grounded in the development of personal insight. While goals are individually created, common themes surrounding building an improved outlook on and confidence when dealing with personal circumstance through tailored intervention strategies. He strongly believes that the client is the expert in their life experience and that treatment should showcase and build upon their expertise. When Andrew is not working or learning he is spending time with his family, including his sweet dog Lily, playing volleyball, hiking, or playing games and spending time with friends.
Kim Seward
M.Ed, MSW, LCSW-A
Kim Seward
M.Ed, MSW, LCSW-A
Kimberly Seward is a native of Champaign, Illinois and hails from a family of professional and college athletes. She moved to Charlotte, NC in 2012. Kim has a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). She holds a Master of Science in Training and Development from Charleston Illinois, a Master of Social Work from the University of Urbana-Champaign and a Bachelor of Social Work from Alabama A&M University, Huntsville, Alabama, where she attended on an athletic scholarship. Kim has over 25 years of experience in the field of child welfare and mental health. She has worked with children under the age of 18 exposed to abuse and neglect, suffering from mental disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety, depression, bipolar, intellectual disabilities, anger management, lack of social skills and other forms of trauma. Kim is compassionate about working with children and adolescents and does so from a strengths-based approach. This approach is grounded in dialogue in a supportive environment aimed at increasing self-confidence, self-worth, and personal development. Kim strongly believes that the client and families are the experts of their life and life experiences, and she motivates and encourages them to aim higher than the status quo to reach achievable outcomes. When Kim is not working, she spends time with her granddaughters, Karrington (4) and Kennedy (2), husband, children, attending her son’s basketball games and enjoys hosting family gatherings.
Amber Jarvis
LCMHC-A
Amber Jarvis
LCMHC-A
Amber graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science in Business. She graduated from
the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Master of Arts in Counseling. She is an LCMHCA joining the
Concord office.
She works with clients 14 and older with various issues and concerns. She focuses on questions of identity
development. She also works with anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, burnout, grief/loss,
religious/spiritual development and trauma, among others. Amber utilizes eclectic techniques to help her clients
to heal and grow.
When she is not working, she enjoys reading, live music, running, and watching her favorite TV shows over
again.
Michael Dyson
MA, LCMHC-A
Michael Dyson
MA, LCMHC-A
Michael is a graduate of North Carolina Central University, where he earned a Master of Arts in Career Counseling and Placement and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2021. Michael graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise and Sport Science. He is currently a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina. In 2021, Michael also participated in the National Board of Certified Counselors Minority Fellowship Program, which trained participants on how to work with various populations including BIPOC, LGBTQIA, and other underrepresented populations.
Prior to starting his counseling career, Michael worked in both secondary and higher education settings across North Carolina. In those roles, he was able to learn valuable skills to support individuals entering the workforce, creating plans for their futures, and developing their professional aptitude. Michael believes that all clients should be honored and respected in the therapeutic setting. He utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness as well as other unique counseling interventions like gaming therapy and art therapy to support clients’ growth and healing. When Michael is not counseling, he enjoys spending time with loved ones, attending live shows, and exercising.
Toni Mason
MA, LCMHC-A
Toni Mason
MA, LCMHC-A
Toni Mason is a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate (LCMHCA) at Southlake Counseling. In 2023, she received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling as well as a graduate certificate in Gerontology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She received her Bachelor of Science in Communication from East Carolina University in 2017. Toni enjoys working individuals, couples and families of all backgrounds who are working through life transitions, depression, anxiety, cultural diversity issues, substance-related family conflict and grief. Her specialties include older adults (60+), veterans, domestic violence survivors, couples and folx in LGBTQIA+ community (including polyamory/ethical non-monogamy).
Toni operates primarily from a CBT perspective but frequently integrates dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) skills as well as Gottman Method techniques. Past clients would describe her approach to therapy as gentle but direct. When away from the office, Toni enjoys reading fantasy novels, going to the movies, traveling the world and going to concerts with friends.
Lisa Creager
LCMHC
Lisa Creager
LCMHC
Lisa is a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC. She received her Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling from The University of Georgia in 2001. Before that, she earned her undergraduate degree in English and Psychology from Virginia Tech. She has a vast array of experiences that inform her therapeutic practice. In addition to working as a therapist in private practice, she has worked in the corporate world, as a sports massage therapist for The University of Georgia swim and gymnastic teams, as a school counselor at the elementary and middle school levels, and as a yoga instructor. She has most recently lent her experience to helping developing race car drivers learn positive stress management skills.
Lisa draws from several therapeutic approaches, but leans heavily on bottom-up approaches that help integrate the body and brain. She may initially use a brain-based approach such as CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) to highlight ways to truth-test thoughts, but will focus most of the attention on EMDR to desensitize/delink and rewire the brain’s associations with negative and recurrent themes. She will also incorporate mindfulness/meditation to calm the nervous system and help invite regulation. Her goal is to shift clients from surviving to thriving.
In her time away from work, she enjoys researching (Polyvagal theory, somatic awareness, EMDR techniques) reading non-fiction and fiction, spending time with family and friends, doing yoga, teaching yoga, connecting with trees, playing with our family’s pets (2 dogs and 2 cats), collecting intergenerational stories and wisdom from extended family members, and doing service and community projects through The National Charity League and Love Lake Norman Church.
Julianna DeStefano
MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Julianna DeStefano
MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Julianna is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2023 and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Elon University in 2021. She is a NC Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate and a National Certified Counselor. She is passionate and enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults aged 7 and up. Julianna has prior experience working with all ages in a non-profit setting. Julianna has completed a clinical internship in Lexington, NC working with children and adults who have experience domestic violence and history of anxiety depression. Julianna also has experience as an intensive in-home therapist working with children and adolescents as well as their families who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Within her practice Julianna utilizes elements of cognitive behavioral therapy interventions, mindfulness, art therapy, and motivational interviewing with her clients. Julianna enjoys working with adolescents and adults having trouble adjusting to life’s challenges or living with anxiety and depression. When Julianna is not working she enjoys spending time with family and friends, yoga, exploring new restaurants, and being outdoors.
Serenity Reininger
Intern
Serenity Reininger
Intern
Serenity received her bachelors degree in communications at Pfeiffer University and is currently in NorthCentral University’s masters program for marriage and family therapy.
Serenity believes the therapeutic relationship is an essential part of the work done together, and she find ways of naturally connecting to each of her clients. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, she provides an environment that ensures that every client has an opportunity to be truly seen and feel truly heard. She provides a person-centered and collaborative approach and is passionate about helping clients identify their internal strengths and resources to approach life’s challenges. She incorporates warmth, compassion, and humor, and utilizes techniques from DBT, CBT, SFBT, and Gottman skills.
Jenny Shumaker
Intern
Intern
Jenny is graduate level intern act University of the Cumberlands pursuing her Master of Arts degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling. She also holds a bachelors degree in Sociology from Miami University. During her internship at Southlake Counseling, Jenny would likes to work with adults and adolescents presenting with concerns related to life transitions, relationship struggles, stress, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, or issues with self-image and self-worth. She believes in providing clients with an atmosphere of safety, and meeting each person with empathy, patience, and compassion, to help empower them as they embark on the transformative process of counseling.
Kristen Morton
Intern
Intern
Kristen is a graduate student at West Virginia University working towards her Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. She has received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UNC Greensboro and a Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Psychology from University of Greenwich. Kristen has experience working as a mental performance coach where she worked with many issues including performance anxiety, low confidence, negative self-talk, and difficulties regulating emotions. She has interned with High Focus Centers in Charlotte, NC where she worked with individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and substance use disorders. Through these experiences, Kristen has gained experience working with children, teens, and adults of all ages. During her internship at Southlake Counseling, Kristen would like to work with adults and adolescents (12+) presenting with concerns related to anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem, trauma, body-image, and women’s issues.
Piper
Therapy Dog, Canine Good Citizen
Piper
Therapy Dog, Canine Good Citizen
Administrative Staff
Susie Alvarez
Susie Alvarez joined the Southlake team in August of 2017 and has helped make our front office team complete. Susie ensures that each patient’s needs are met and can answer almost any question she is asked! When you arrive at Southlake, you will be greeted with her smiling face, and cheerful attitude. She plays a critical part in the billing, office administration, and scheduling for Southlake Counseling! She is responsible for much of the “behind the scenes” work that allows Southlake’s therapists to focus on our #1 priority – our clients! She loves coming to work everyday to see all of the change and growth that happens with each patient. Susie is such a critical component of our office here at Southlake, and we are so thankful for all that she brings to the team! When not at work, Susie love to spend time with her dogs, working on her flowers outside, and trying new restaurants.
Nikki Coffey
Nikki Coffey
“Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.”
― Carl Jung
Nikki has been an administrative assistant with Southlake Counseling for nearly 3 years! She has a passion for mental health and is currently in the process of obtaining her degree in Mental Health Counseling. She loves animals, but dogs hold a special place in her heart! In her spare time, she enjoys playing the piano, creating art, discovering new music, attending concerts/festivals when possible, and being open to new experiences.
Dawn Aquino
Dawn Aquino
Dawn is our billing specialist and, in a word, is awesome! There aren’t adequate words to express what she brings to our office. Her warmth and genuine concern for our clients is easily felt by all who come into contact with her. Her friendly smile and laugh make working with her a complete joy––one she extends to each and every client. Dawn provides the Southlake team with professional yet approachable front office staff, so when you walk through our doors, you feel like you matter. Dawn believes every client matters and takes her job seriously. Many of our clients comment that she is the “icing on the cake” here at Southlake. Dawn is skilled at all aspects of billing and her knowledge and ability to work with insurance companies is unparalleled. She can answer most billing questions and if she doesn’t know the answer, she will research to figure it out. Her smile and consistent positive attitude are reassuring from the moment our clients walk into the office.
Natalie Yager
Natalie Yager
Natalie received her bachelor’s in Psychology from UNCC. After college, she worked in Animal Welfare for a few years before deciding she was ready to make the switch back to using my degree. As the Client Care Coordinator here at Southlake, Natalie reaches out to potential clients who are seeking our services and tries to match them with a therapist who best fits their needs as well as follow up with our new clients after their first sessions. She enjoys working with people and animals so in her free time Natalie likes to volunteer at the Humane Society of Charlotte as well as spend time with her cat, friends, and family.