working through life's challenges

Welcome to Jackson Healing Clinic

At Jackson Healing Clinic, you will find a supportive atmosphere as you work through life’s problems and challenges. Our main goal is to help you heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns as you tap into your strengths in order to achieve your goals.

Using conventional and evidence based approaches, we evaluate each client's strengths and develop a framework through which change can take place. We blend many types of research-based theories and practices to find the unique strategy to help clients achieve feelings of control.

Meet Our Team

David Goolsby Jr.

David R. Goolsby Jr
President & CEO

David Goolsby Jr. is the President & CEO as well as the lead mental health care administrator for the Jackson Healing Clinic. Mr. Goolsby, a native of Michigan, brings over 15 years of experience in health care administration and management.
Mr. Goolsby advocates for access to better mental healthcare by being a voice for those suffering from depression, anxiety, or any other disorder. His primary goal is ensuring that all of our clients receive appropriate services, in an optimal and timely fashion,

Mr. Goolsby received his Bachelors in Healthcare Administration in the summer of 2015 and has served in other capacities including: Healthcare Business Administration Management for Patterns Behavioral Service and as an Administrator for the Center for Family Health

Heather Goolsby

Heather Goolsby
MA, LPC, NCC, CTP-C

Heather is the Chief Clinical Director and Owner of the Jackson Healing Clinic, LLC. Heather graduated from Spring Arbor University with a Master’s Degree in Counseling. She holds a license in the State of Michigan as a Licensed Professional Counselor with a special endorsement in providing clinical supervision to LLPCs and master level counselor interns. In addition, Heather is a Certified Trauma Practitioner with additional trauma certifications, including in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Being a National Board Certified Counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and families has allowed her to use a variety of theoretical perspectives and researched based interventions in individual, family, and group therapy modalities. She has an additional Master’s Degree from Siena Heights University in Organizational Leadership.
Heather has years of diverse experience and specializes in treating trauma, especially sexual abuse and human trafficking. Other areas of expertise include substance abuse, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and couples counseling. Using a person-centered, strength-based approach, Heather focuses on each individual’s spiritual, emotional, relational, and physical needs. Heather utilizes several forms of therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and solution focused therapy. Heather’s non-judgmental, empathic approach allows clients to recognize and understand their struggles and limitations while feeling inspired into becoming healthier and happier in their lives.
Matthew Morgan

Matthew Morgan
Chief Administrative Officer

Matt is a Jacksonite through and through.  His grade school years were spent at Jackson Northwest Schools where he met his wife of 20+ years.  His collegiate years were spent mainly at Spring Arbor University where he studied Business Administration and Statistics.  Matt’s family now consists of his loving wife and 3 children ranging in age from 19-9.  You may have seen Matt a time or two at one of his restaurants.  He has owned Marco’s pizza franchise stores, Roly Poly rolled sandwich franchise stores and Biggby Coffee franchise stores in the Jackson and AnnArbor areas.  With the Jackson Healing Clinic he specializes in billing and therapist credentialing but likes to take pride in being just a glue guy, keeping everything running smoothly.  

 

“I have a deep rooted passion for mental health and the Jackson Healing Clinic is a company that I take pride in working with.  Their passion and desire to make Jackson and THE WORLD a better place totally aligns with my desires as well.” – Matt

Corena Herder

 

Corena Herder
MA, LPC

 

Corena Herder is a Limited Licensed Masters Level Professional Counselor residing in Battle Creek, Michigan.  She has experience working with adult men and women; although, her passion is working with children and adolescents.  

 

Corena obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, KS., and her Master of Arts degree from Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL.  Corena has been working in the social service field for 20 years and, in that time, has had the opportunity to assist individuals experiencing a variety of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, as well as with those individuals presenting with substance abuse disorders and those on the spectrum of autistic disorders.  

 

“I utilize a therapeutic approach specializing in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral skills. I strongly believe that the key ingredient to navigating the therapeutic process and bringing authentic change is to build a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship.  I consider it a privilege to help others navigate through the difficulties that life can present.” – Corena

 

 

Valerie Walker

Valerie Walker
MA, LPC, CAADC

Valerie Walker is a fully licensed Masters’ Level Clinician. She is also a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Valerie obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a specialization in Crisis and Trauma from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. She then went on to complete her Master’s degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling from Walden University through an online program based out of Minneapolis Minnesota.

With about 7 years’ experience, she has assisted individuals with mental health and substance use concerns including; substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and those on the spectrum of autistic disorders. She has also previously facilitated groups including Anger Management, Domestic Violence, and Recovery. Valerie uses a multitude of therapy methods including: Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. 

“I believe in a nonjudgmental empathetic perspective to build a positive therapeutic relationship. I am grateful to help guide clients in gaining insight into their struggles so they can build on a healthier and happier lifestyle.” – Val

Joe Uppal

Joe Uppal
Clinical Supervisor, MA, LMSW

 

 Joe has been an EMDR therapist since 2011 trained at the EMDR Institute (EMDRIA ID #63547386). He was trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at the Beck Institute for Mood Disorders. He is one of only the few hundred Certified CBT-I therapists in the country for the treatment of Primary Insomnia. I am also certified by the State of Michigan in providing Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for PTSD. 

 

“Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, or just everyday life challenges, I am here with you. Therapy is my passion, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate care with the highest level of expertise.”

Tabitha Harden

Tabitha Harden
MA, LMSW

Tabitha Harden is a Licensed Clinical Masters Level Social Worker residing in Marshall, Michigan. She has experience working with children and adolescents, as well as adjudicated adults.

She utilizes a therapeutic lens that includes Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Strength-Based, and Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral interventions. She actively involves empathy, validation, and non-judgmental stance within the therapeutic environment.

 

“I strive to create a safe and trusting space where my clients can find security to explore, process, and create suitable steps toward change. I value the opportunity to create a therapeutic partnership with you and provide guidance on tackling any obstacles that come your way.” – Tabitha

Ariel Gant

Ariel Gant
MA, LPC, TF-CBT

Ariel is originally from Indianapolis, Indiana but has been living in the Jackson Michigan area since 2006. She attended Spring Arbor University where she graduated in November 2015 with a Masters of Arts in Counseling. She holds a License of Professional Counselors (LPC) from the state of Michigan, having been fully licensed since 2018. Her most recent experience has been working with children 4-17 years old with severe emotional disturbance (SED) and  Before that, she has worked with hospice and homeless veterans. She is a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapist (TF-CBT) for children up to 18 years of age since 2019 and most recently in 2022 she became certified in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for all ages.

“I take a holistic, strengths-based approach to therapy by utilizing a variety of treatment modalities.  Each person is unique and deserves an approach tailored specifically to them.  The client and I will work together to build a concrete plan for success, to accomplish the goals they have for themselves and their lives. I look forward to meeting you and collaborating on your healing journey!” – Ariel

Jasmine Jamierson-Freeman

Jasmine Jamierson-Freeman
MA, LLC

Jasmine Jamierson-Freeman is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor residing in Battle Creek, Michigan. She obtained her Master’s degree from Spring Arbor University in 2015.

She has worked with the adult population who suffered from addiction and teenagers in the juvenile system and the foster care system. She has experience working with the following modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma –Informed Cognitive Behavioral Interventions, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.

“I am not only here to create a safe therapeutic space, but I take pride in building relationships and being able to establish healthy boundaries with those I work with. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life.” – Jasmine

Joe Keinath

Joe Keinath
MA, LPC

Joe understands and has experience with all of the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, he will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-awareness, self-esteem, and most importantly, a more fulfilling life.  His approach is straightforward and informal. He is passionate about empowering individuals and reenergizing the human spirit. His specialties include, but are not limited to: Child and Adolescent behavioral challenges –Anxiety – Couple/Marriage challenges – Mood disorders – Anger management – Self-esteem Issues – Life Transitions – Trauma.

“I’m here to walk you through the process of building a happier life. I want to work with you to develop skills to build a healthy and happy future. You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment.” -Joe

Chris de La Grange

Chris de La Grange
MA, LPC

Chris de La Grange is a no nonsense, non-judging, hope-building, Nationally Certified Counselor as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor.  She obtained her Master of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. She is a person-centered counselor who strongly aligns with a family system theory of counseling, based in attachment and safety. She uses evidenced based counseling theories and practices, founded on human safety and connection, allowing you to see your life potential based on your goals, hopes and abilities. She also uses counseling modalities of connection, practice and knowledge such as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Attachment Theory, Child – Parent Psychotherapy, and others. She is also constantly studying relevant research on current issues and treatment interventions to ensure workable treatment, specifically for your concerns.

 

“I pledge to use my experience, knowledge, and skills to create a trusting, therapeutic relationship, with a mission to walk beside you, assisting you in finding answers and hope in yourself so you can reach that place in life you want.” – Chris

Richard Griffith

Richard Griffith
MA, LPC, MTS

Rich has provided professional counseling in multiple settings for over 25 years.  He is also a veteran of the Marine Corps, served for 15 years as a volunteer FireFighter, and has been privileged to serve as a pastor for over 20 years. Rich happily dwells with his wife and two young children in Parma, Michigan, and is blessed to have 5 grown children and 8 grandchildren. Rich loves being with his family, motorcycling, camping, outdoor activities, and woodworking.

 

Rich incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused – CBT, Strength-Based, along with other evidence-based modalities and interventions as needed to provide optimal care. Personal Growth Assignments (PGA’s) are offered each session to solidify key themes that will help clients reach their goals more quickly. Rich’s clients will enjoy a safe and supportive environment where they feel valued and will soon see results.

 

 

“My mission in life is to encourage and equip others of all ages as they overcome anxiety, depression, anger issues, trauma, victimization, grief, addictions, and many other life challenges.  Over the past few decades I have also found great joy in helping couples navigate relationship hurdles as well.  I look forward to meeting you!” – Rich

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Indigo Lankton

Indigo Lankton
MA, LPC

As parents we do our best to ensure our children have the love and support that they need. Sometimes children experience struggles such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, or any variety of issues that life can throw at them. When this happens, it can often be difficult to know how to help. This can leave us feeling frustrated, hopeless, and discouraged which is an incredibly frustrating place to find yourself. 

Where those struggles begin is where Indigo’s passion comes in. She can offer a safe, judgment-free space for clients to address life’s ups and downs. Using eclectic therapy practices, she can begin working on helping your child, and your family tackle these hurdles. She will work with you as a team to help you and your child find peace and well-being.

 

“I am available to help your child find their strengths and work toward their goals! I aim to help children, families, and adults acquire the tools and resources to build an incredible life for themselves. I would love to see if we would work well together, and I look forward to getting to know you and your child.” – Indigo

Heather Church

Heather R Church
MA, LPC

Heather Church is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is trained in CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, art therapy, and play therapy, as well as holding a current certification in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a level II certification from MI-AMIH to work in infant mental health.  She graduated from Saint Mary’s University of Minneapolis Minnesota, in 1999 with an M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services. 

 

 

“I like working with different kinds of people.  Everybody has different strengths and helping them grow those strengths is a passion of mine.” – Heather  

 

Robert Dangler

Robert "Bob" Dangler
MA, LLC

Hello, my name is Robert J. Dangler MA, LLPC. Would you please call me “Bob”?  

Bob is a Limited License Professional Counselor and also a Jackson, Michigan native. 

Bob strives for his clients to feel safe, comfortable, and confident after their sessions. His education started at Jackson Public schools.  He did his undergrad and grad school at Siena Heights University located in Adrian, Michigan in 2014 where he studied criminal justice.  His graduate degree focused on Clinical Mental Health counseling and he has now been in the field for over 11 years, helping individuals with developmental disorders, cognitive impairments, and violent behavioral tendencies. He has also managed a specialized home focused on ABA therapy and behavioral management with adult men with autism for seven years. I have also worked with and supervised adolescents and families. I am eager and excited to help with this journey together. 

 

  “My passion is to help anyone from adolescent to adult  no matter the situation.  Believe in yourself, because I believe in you.” – Bob

Lindsey Arthur

Lindsey Arthur
MA, LPC

Lindsey is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) who has had the privilege of gaining experience in a variety of counseling settings.

Her therapeutic lens is person-centered and humanistic, in which her clients are seen as an expert in their lives, while she assists and guides you through inner knowing, interpersonal changes, and healing.

She will use a variety of therapeutic techniques that include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, psycho-educational, trauma-informed, mindfulness and more.  She promotes growth by offering a safe accepting atmosphere so that you feel heard, validated and empowered.

“It takes courage to seek a happier, more fulfilling life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support you. I look forward to working with you!”

-Lindsey

Jodie McEldowney

Jodie McEldowney
MA, LLC

Jodie graduated from Western Michigan University with her master’s degree in

Counseling and is a Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC) and Licensed School Counselor (LSC) in

the state of Michigan. She believes that counseling should be a collaborative, goal-oriented

process in which clients acquire new skills and knowledge, become increasingly independent in

tackling their future challenges, and discontinue therapy when satisfactory progress has been

made and goals have been met.

 

She works with clients on a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression,

trauma, emotional regulation, mood disorders, and learning disabilities, drawing largely from a

strength-based, person-centered approach. She leans primarily on Cognitive Behavioral

Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Eye

Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and polyvagal and somatic

interventions, but she exercises flexibility by incorporating a variety of approaches to best meet

individual client needs.

 

I am passionate about partnering with clients on their journey toward personal growth and mental wellness.  I will offer a welcoming, non judgemental, inclusive environment where all clients feel accepted just as they are but also feel supported while growing and changing to meet their personal goals” – Jodie

 
Eva Briggs

Eva Briggs
MA, LPC

Eva Briggs is a License Counselor who obtained her Master of Arts in Mental Health

Counseling from the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2009. Eva has worked

in the field of mental health and medical social work for the past 39 years working in different

settings with various populations. She has spent the past 5 years working exclusively with kids

doing home-based and outpatient counseling. Eva is a certified trauma trained therapist.

Eva uses a variety of treatment modalities including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral

Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy as well as utilizing art

and play therapy techniques to engage clients and help them feel that they are in a safe

environment to share their thoughts and feelings.

 

“My goal is to help clients learn and use the tools and coping skills that I teach them to help them be successful in treatment and in their everyday lives.” – Eva

Christine Gjestland

Christine Gjestland
MA, LPC, NCC, ACS

Christine Gjestland has been providing mental health services for the past 28 years to infants, toddlers, adolescents, individuals, and families with a variety of therapeutic needs. (Trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, parenting, behavioral concerns, mood disorders, attachment, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, etc…) 

During the last five years she has also provided Supervision in the agency to other therapists as their supervisor, Coordinator of programs and as ACS (Approved Clinical Supervisors) for Limited Licensed Professional Counselors in the state of Michigan. 

 

Continued education is very important to Christine.  She has and continues working on developing her therapeutic skills by learning techniques such as DBT, CBT, Solution focus, Motivational Interviewing, infant mental health, attachment, play therapy techniques, parenting techniques, and reflective Supervision, EMDR and other evidenced-based psychotherapy techniques.

 

Christine has a Bachelor Social Work and master’s Arts in Counseling, both educational programs achieved through Spring Arbor University. She carries (LPC) Licensed Professional Counselor and a (LBSW) Licensed Bachelor Social Work through the state of Michigan. Christine is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Christine is an active Board Member of the Michigan Home Base Family Service Association (MHBFSA) in the role of their secretary and a member

of MI-AIMH.

 

 

“I have learned and gained a great deal of skills and experience as a clinician in what I have done in my career up to now.  I plan to continue to go beyond the barriers and help others on their Journey of Healing, growth, self-awareness and change.  Come see me, I can help.”  -Christine

 
Melissa Hillman

Melissa Shipman MA, LLC

Mel is a 2022 graduate of Siena Heights University’s Master of Arts Clinical Mental Health Program. Previous work has been mainly with women and children with areas of concentration in anxiety, depression, grief, caregiver burnout, ADHD, special education, Autism in children, self-care, behavior modification, being a single parent, and relationship issues.

Clients should expect the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness techniques, Depression and Anxiety Assessments, thought reframing, commitment therapy, Solution Based Focused Therapy in addition to other techniques. 

 

Frequently, clients have developed learned helplessness. She wil work together with her client to restore hope and self -reliance. The main components to a successful therapist / client relationship alliance are honesty, punctuality, openness, genuineness, and willingness to put in the work. People have suffered for generations by repeating patterns; therefore, this is why she chose to become a counselor. She wants to help people break the cycles. 

 

“Are you feeling all alone in the world, and that no one understands you? Then we should talk. I look forward to hearing from you and beginning your journey of healing.”  – Mel

Daun Kittinger

Daun Kittinger
MA, LLMSW, CMHP, MHP, QMHP, QIDP

Daun is a Limited License Clinician Social Worker who resides in Marshall, Michigan. Daun Graduated from Spring Arbor University with a Bachelor of Social Work in 2015 and a Master of Social Work in 2019 with an undergrad in Criminal Justice. Daun has worked in the social services field for over 15 years, with a majority of her career dedicated to youth.  Daun works digitally to meet the specific and unique needs of each client in an environment which provides compassion, trust, and validation in a positive, safe, and non-judgmental space. Daun’s goal is to ensure that each client feels heard, supported, and empowered. Her work history has given her the opportunity to assist many different populations including children and adolescents with ADHD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, Disruptive Behavior Disorder, difficult transitions, life challenges, and Impulse Control Disorder. She has worked with high-risk youth in the juvenile justice system, foster care system, compromised family situations, victims of trauma as well as adults in corrections.  She empowers and strengthens her clients and family’s ability to identify and address their goals. Daun uses a client-centered, interpersonal, emotion-focused approach. She uses skills in CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to help her clients improve their emotional health and well-being.

 

“My passion is to assist everyone in understanding their full potential.  I will do this by educating them on how to deal with the impact of their past while concentrating on their present opportunities and future potential.” – Daun

Summer Washington

Summer Washington
MA, LPC

Summer Washington is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Siena Heights University. She completed her

undergraduate work at Oakland University, obtaining a Bachelors Degree of Psychology.

Summer has over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field that include roles as a Family counselor, Case Manager, School Counselor, Crisis Clinician and Therapist. Summer specializes in working with all populations with special interest in children, adolescents, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Summer practices Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in addition to Solution Focused Therapy. Summer treats all mental health disorders including Depression, Anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Mood disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder to name a few. In addition to her mental health career Summer has held professional roles as an Educator, Mentor, Legal Professional and Entrepreneur. Summer’s belief is to not find life’s purpose, but to find your purpose in life!

 

“My passion has always been to help others meet their full potential and live life to the fullest.”    -Summer

 
Jean Concannon

Jean Concannon
MA, LMSW

Jean graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Administration. Diversity and Inclusion was her first career for many years, building an understanding of the needs of the children, parents, families, and community she worked with. Good communication and support were vital to the needs of this community population.  Her first career inspired her to further my education at Western Michigan University where she obtained her masters degree in Social Work.

 

Her main belief is that with empathy, compassion, and support people are able to navigate through life’s challenges and achieve overall health and a meaningful life. As a clinician, her primary role is to understand the individual experience and support growth and understanding from their perspective.  

 

“I am a compassion focused clinician that supports individuals, and families from a holistic perspective that integrates the aspects of the mind, body and Spirit.  I believe each person is an expert on their lived experiences and a a therapist is there to support and guide clients to live a healthy and fulfilling life. I try to support clients to find the healthiest path for them using validation, acceptance and compassion.” – Jean

Rachel Kane

Rachel Kane
MA, LLC

Rachel completed her Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health at Siena Heights University in 2023; she also holds a Master’s of Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and brings to Jackson Healing Clinic a vast knowledge of mental health experience in a multitude of settings. 

 

Her experience includes working with individuals with eating disorders, personality disorders, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorders. She has previously worked in a forensic capacity, juvenile residential and, more recently foster care and adoption. 

 

 “I encourage self-empowerment from within through compassion, empathy, and an honest approach. Life brings many challenges and with it an opportunity to grow and learn. When you are ready to look deeper, I offer a welcoming, judgment-free environment where we work collaboratively in a person-centered approach.  I look forward to meeting with you and guide you through your journey of self-discovery.” – Rachel

Katrina Pettigrew

Katrina Pettigrew
MA, LLMSW

“Do you feel like you can’t shake your case of not good enough-itis? This persistent feeling comes from trying to be someone you are not. Constantly trying to be perfect or to fit into everyone else’s expectations depletes you and make you forget who you really are. Please give us a call, I can help” – Katrina

Michelle Black

Michelle Black
MA, LLMSW

Michelle grew up in Jonesville, Michigan, not too far away from her current residence in the Jackson area.  She has been involved in the human services field for the last seven years and it has given her a vast knowledge of the community and potential resources. She recently graduated from Michigan State University in May of 2023 with a Master’s Degree in Social Work.  Her biggest goal is to be a safe space for you to come in and express yourself. She likes to utilize an eclectic style of therapy and together will find out what works specifically for you.  


“When a flashlight grows dim or quits working, do you just throw it away? Of course not. You change the batteries. When a person messes up or finds themselves in a dark place, do you cast them aside? Of course not! You help them change their batteries.Some need AA…attention and affection; some need AAA…attention, affection, and acceptance; some need C….compassion; some need D…direction.  And if they still don’t seem to shine…simply sit with them quietly and share your light.”   – Rachel Dansby Freeman

“I look forward to being a part of your journey!” – Michelle

Jessica Opel

Jessica Opel
MA, LMSW

Jessica is an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LMSW) who is passionate about wellness and providing a nonjudgmental and safe space for all individuals.  Jessica has enormous compassion for people going through life’s challenges and transitions.  She feels privileged to work with those who are seeking support.  Through a strengths based, trauma informed, and person- centered therapeutic approach.  Jessica recognizes the importance of building a relationship with clients in order to establish realistic and attainable goals.

 

Jessica completed her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Siena Heights University and her Masters of Social Work degree from Eastern Michigan University.  Jessica previously worked as a school social worker helping students manage difficult emotions and struggles within the school setting.  Jessica has worked in the community mental health field for almost 5 years.  Her primary work has been providing clinical treatment for children, adolescents, and families in both the home based and outpatient setting.

 

“To practice my own self care, I enjoy spending time with my son and friends.  I enjoy taking nature walks, reading, and traveling.  I strive to be a lifelong learner, and am always seeking new opportunities to grow my clinical skills” – Jessica

 

Marianna Strasz

Marianna Strasz
MA, LMSW

Marianna is a Limited Licensed Master’s Level Social Worker. A Michigan native, Marianna is an avid admirer of a Michigan Fall, Lions football, and Better Made potato chips. Marianna attended University of Louisville and graduated with a Master of Science in Social Work. 

 

Marianna has worked with children and families for almost 10 years. Marianna is trained in EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a therapeutic intervention for children and adolescents under 18. Marianna has experience in non-profit management and providing direct therapy, in both the outpatient and home-based setting. 

 

I am passionate about helping others realize and strive for their highest potential, living a life they find both fulfilling and meaningful.” – Marianna

 

Sofia Johnson

Sofia Johnson
MA, LLMSW

Sofia is an Eastern Michigan University Graduate, and her focus has always been to work with families and children. Her work in the mental health fields includes providing therapy and substance abuse treatment in the prison system for almost two years. Prior to the prison she provided direct services with people that experienced homelessness for almost five years.  In addition, she has experience with trauma informed approach.  She prefers “the Seeking Safety” method in conjunction with CBT to provide evidenced based treatment.  

 

“I truly enjoy helping individuals to reach their full potential and overcome some of the challenges that life brings. I believe that my educational foundation has given me the skills to help individuals and families to gain insight and create meaningful connections to one another. In addition, my professional background has given me the foundation that strengthens the quality of services that are sensitive to diversity and inclusion.”

 

Sophia

 
Jessica Garza

Jessica Garza
MA, LLMSW

 

My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment for you to explore personal issues, and concerns. I believe in a person’s ability to heal and live a fulfilling life. I enjoy working with a diverse population. My clinical training includes working  with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, identity issues, and family relationships. I am trained in TF-CBT and EMDR. I have earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University. 

 

“I would be honored to collaborate with you as you pursue your goals for wellness.” – Jessica

Jazmin Luckett

Jazmin Luckett
Intern, Northwestern University

Jazmin is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate student at Northwestern University (NU) and will be a LPC in 2024. She believes in, and practices the philosophy that counseling provides an emphasis on development, wellness, advocacy, and empowerment. She worked in the hospital setting as a Psychiatric Tech and is a 13-year Navy veteran where she worked as Counselor. Jazmin strives to help young adults and adult clients with, but not limited to, chronic pain, recent injuries and recovery, new life changes, conflict, sleep issues, workplace stress, trauma, sense of purposelessness, and new career discovery. She has a passion for coaching and overall wellness.

Focusing on life-enhancing experiences, acceptance, courage, creativity, and awe. Jazmin uses several counseling modalities to focus on each clients’ individual mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

 

“Your current situation is not your final destination.” -Zig Ziglar

Melissa Forlano

Melissa Forlano,
Intern, Sienna Heights University

Melissa graduated from Siena Heights University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at Siena Heights University in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, I graduate in 2024. 
 
Therapy is not a one size fits all approach, it is a combination of separate theoretical theories tailored specifically to the clients therapeutic needs.  I believe in giving clients a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings unfiltered and free of any judgement.” – Melissa