Kayla Zackary

About Kayla

(She/Her/Hers)

Being a human is hard, and the experience of human life is vastly complex as each person is individually shaped by their unique biological make-up, life experiences, major life events, surrounding environments, and relationships. While no two people have identical life experiences, all share in the experiencing of suffering, pain, confusion, and loss as the result of the brokenness that is innately part of the human condition. I believe that just as humans are inflicted with deep pain, so are they capable of change, growth, and finding satisfaction. 

It is my hope to provide a warm and safe space for you to share your experiences, pain, trauma, and questions, knowing that they are being held with care, respect, honor, and gentleness. As a counselor, it is crucial to me that you feel comfortable, seen, known, and heard and your well-being will always be my priority. In the therapy room, I hope to help clients heal from trauma, anxiety, or depression while improving self esteem, communication, boundary setting, and relationships. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds and enjoy working with teens, young adults, and couples. 

I graduated from Dallas Baptist University with a double major in Psychology and Sociology and graduated with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Texas at Tyler. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor. 

More About Me Blog

Molly McGregor

About Molly

She/Her/Hers

I have a passion for helping clients unpack what is getting in their way, make sense of emotions and patterns, and learn skills to bring more stability and satisfaction to one’s life. It is an honor to hold space for individuals and couples from all backgrounds, and I am deeply committed to accompanying my clients on their journey towards authentic and fulfilling lives. 

I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic process is a collaborative and supportive relationship between the client and therapist. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore the areas of their lives that feel challenging, while also acknowledging the strengths that they already possess. I enjoy working with individuals and couples on a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, self-esteem, identity concerns, and life transitions. 

I practice from a holistic point of view, employing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy to help guide clients through whatever challenges they’re experiencing. I believe the mind/body connection plays am integral role in each individual’s path toward self-understanding and acceptance. 

I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Texas at Dallas. I am also a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) which provides a strong foundation for a non-judgmental, curious, mindfulness-based approach. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor. 

Madi Brewer

About Madi

(She/Her/Hers)

Hi! My name is Madi Brewer and I am a graduate student and intern here at Bright Space Therapy. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Equine Assisted Therapy at Texas Tech University, and am currently finishing up my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. 

Due to my own personal challenges throughout my life, I have acquired a passion for helping anyone and everyone tap into their innate potential for growth in order to lead a happy and healthy life. I strive to make the counseling process comfortable and judgement free by showing empathy, compassion, and positive regard to each client. Seeking out counseling is the first step towards this growth and I know it can be hard, so I applaud you for having the will and strength to do so!

I have experience working with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and perinatal and postpartum issues. I have a special interest in helping young women going through struggles up to and including life transitions, relationships, stress, self-esteem, abuse, and grief. My approach is rooted in solution-focused and person-centered modalities tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each client, incorporating Narrative Therapy techniques, CBT and DBT, and Parts Work so that I may help you in achieving a sense of wholeness in your life.

In addition, I have been a therapeutic riding instructor at the Texas Tech Therapeutic Riding Center for 4 years. During this time I had the opportunity to teach individuals with physical, cognitive, and mental health disorders how to ride horses as a form of therapeutic intervention. I have worked with clients with autism, downs syndrome, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida, as well as veterans with PTSD and hearing and visual disabilities. I also have experience teaching children and adults with an array of mental health issues including anxiety and depression. While I taught these individuals different skills with horse riding, I also had the opportunity to work alongside licensed Speech Therapists, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Licensed Professional Counselors in a different form of therapeutic riding called “hippotherapy”, in which the horse’s movement and gait is used to provide motor and sensory input. 

I’m so happy you’re here and I’m truly honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you during your journey of healing and self-discovery! 

I am a counseling intern and will be available until December 6th, 2024 at the rate of $60. I am under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor.

Bailey Pittman

About Bailey

I am passionate about counseling because I love seeing a client find hope, relief, and realize their own strength and resiliency. My desire is to create an accepting, warm environment where clients can feel safe to be themselves and work on their personal struggles without feelings of shame or guilt. 

I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and couples who are struggling with trauma, addiction, body image, communication, grief, and everyday struggles. I have a special heart for those dealing with trauma, perfectionism, and relationship challenges. Based on my own experiences, I am able to empathize with the struggles related to insecurity, family conflict, and anxiety that so many face today.

I have training in EMDR/ Trauma work, recovering from narcissistic abuse, Body Image & Disordered Eating, Gottman Couples/Relational Counseling, and more. 

I received my Master of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Premarital Counseling Blog

Mindy Bell

About Mindy

(She/Her/Hers)

“A lot of what looks dead is really just biding its time” ~ Dickon says this to Mary in the Broadway musical adaption of A Secret Garden. As you may know, this children’s story describes the harsh childhood of a young girl named Mary who discovers an abandoned garden on her uncle’s property. Although the garden initially appears to be dead, Dickon and a few other friends teach Mary that with regular attention and nourishment, it can be made beautiful again. The children work hard to revive the garden and, in the process, help the whole family come back to life. 

To me, this story is a beautiful metaphor for the counseling process. Perhaps you have experienced one or many of the losses, traumas, injustices, diagnoses, changes, or confusing circumstances that can make life difficult. Perhaps there are aspects of your life that for various reasons, like Mary’s garden, you have neglected or locked away. No matter the types of challenges you face or how daunting they feel, I believe there exists in you an indestructible vitality ready to be revived and strengthened. Counseling offers a way to tend to this essential part of yourself. It can provide a place to find relief, strengthen your abilities, and experience supportive care. Amazingly, as we heal ourselves, those around us are invited to heal, too.  

My own positive experiences as a client are what motivated me to become a therapist. In counseling, I learned to talk about painful experiences, connect more fully with my emotions, and discover important things about myself that I had previously repressed in order to survive an abusive childhood and adolescence. (But don’t worry, counseling is not always about processing one’s childhood.) It is my honor to help humans of all ages and types who are ready to invest in their own growth.

I am especially passionate about working with creatives, those who identify as Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), and those seeking greater connection with their intuition (no matter how “far away” your creativity or intuition may feel). Other passions of mine include helping clients overcome personal and cultural trauma; process marginalization or minority stress; heal from religious abuse; develop racial identity; and explore sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression in an affirming environment. I have experience integrating expressive art methods, dreamwork, and transpersonal/spiritual experiences in therapy. I love helping adults remember how to rest and play! 

In addition to deeper counseling work, I also offer coaching sessions for those seeking short-term support on a specific goal. One unique thing I can provide because of my background working as an artist and performer is performance-specific coaching with a mental health focus. Together we can game-plan how to optimize your (or your teen’s) artistic life in a way that is healthy for the whole person. 

I received my Masters of Science in Counseling from the University of North Texas, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Self Compassion Blog

Sarah Penoli

About Sarah

(She/Her/Hers)

In the counseling room, I work to instill hope and increase self-esteem while clients learn to improve their relationships to help them flourish in their daily lives. I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, and families. 

I have specialized training in EFIT trauma therapy, Shame/Perfectionism, and Anxiety/Stress Reduction. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to work through the struggles of life and work towards more self-worth, better communication, validation, and growth. I especially love working with teen girls to help through one of the most challenging times in life- adolescence! 

I have worked with clients going through: depression, anxiety, perfectionism, blended families, trauma, and relational distress. I received my BS in Psychology from Texas A&M University and MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Texas Tech University Science Center.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and am under the supervision of Katie Nix, LPC Supervisor. I have availability during the day and in the evening to accommodate your busy schedule.

More About Me Blog

Madi Brewer

About Madi

(She/Her/Hers)

Hi! My name is Madi Brewer and I am a graduate student and intern here at Bright Space Therapy. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Equine Assisted Therapy at Texas Tech University, and am currently finishing up my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. 

Due to my own personal challenges throughout my life, I have acquired a passion for helping anyone and everyone tap into their innate potential for growth in order to lead a happy and healthy life. I strive to make the counseling process comfortable and judgement free by showing empathy, compassion, and positive regard to each client. Seeking out counseling is the first step towards this growth and I know it can be hard, so I applaud you for having the will and strength to do so!

I have experience working with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and perinatal and postpartum issues. I have a special interest in helping young women going through struggles up to and including life transitions, relationships, stress, self-esteem, abuse, and grief. My approach is rooted in solution-focused and person-centered modalities tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each client, incorporating Narrative Therapy techniques, CBT and DBT, and Parts Work so that I may help you in achieving a sense of wholeness in your life.

In addition, I have been a therapeutic riding instructor at the Texas Tech Therapeutic Riding Center for 4 years. During this time I had the opportunity to teach individuals with physical, cognitive, and mental health disorders how to ride horses as a form of therapeutic intervention. I have worked with clients with autism, downs syndrome, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida, as well as veterans with PTSD and hearing and visual disabilities. I also have experience teaching children and adults with an array of mental health issues including anxiety and depression. While I taught these individuals different skills with horse riding, I also had the opportunity to work alongside licensed Speech Therapists, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Licensed Professional Counselors in a different form of therapeutic riding called “hippotherapy”, in which the horse’s movement and gait is used to provide motor and sensory input.

Emily Brayton

About Emily

(She/Her/Hers)

My passion for counseling stems from my own experiences and struggles, as well as my belief that mental health should be a universal priority. Everyone experiences times in their life where things may seem unexpected and challenging. My goal in therapy is to help create a warm, empathic, and inviting environment, where clients can feel free to grow and express themselves without the fear of being judged.

I have experience and enjoy working with teens, young adults, couples, and families. I have specialized training in ADD/ADHD and Executive Functioning, Postpartum and Perinatal therapy, Career Counseling, Depression, and Anxiety/Stress Reduction. Using evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy techniques, I strive to help clients achieve their goals. Additionally, I enjoy using aspects of Art Therapy and in my work with teens. Due to my own experiences, I especially enjoy working with individuals going through difficult life transitions such as breakups, divorce, school/ job change. I also have a passion for helping clients find fulfillment in their everyday lives by implementing positive life structure and self care that reduces depression and anxiety.

I received my Master of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor – Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, LPC-S.

More About Me Blog

ADHD Blog

Taylor Swift Grief Blog

Sarah Penoli

About Sarah

(She/Her/Hers)

In the counseling room, I work to instill hope and increase self-esteem while clients learn to improve their relationships to help them flourish in their daily lives. I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, and families. 

I have specialized training in EFIT trauma therapy, Shame/Perfectionism, and Anxiety/Stress Reduction. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to work through the struggles of life and work towards more self-worth, better communication, validation, and growth. I especially love working with teen girls to help through one of the most challenging times in life- adolescence! 

I have worked with clients going through: depression, anxiety, perfectionism, blended families, trauma, and relational distress. I received my BS in Psychology from Texas A&M University and MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Texas Tech University Science Center.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and am under the supervision of Katie Nix, LPC Supervisor. I have availability during the day and in the evening to accommodate your busy schedule.

More About Me Blog

Leanne Foell

About Leanne

(She/Her/Hers)

I know that therapy can be uncomfortable or a hard process to trust for a teen or young adult. I grew up with four adopted siblings and intimately understand the unique challenges that youth face because of trauma or mental health issues. That’s why I prioritize making therapy an active and even sometimes fun experience. My goal is that young people want to come back to therapy and that they start to gain their OWN motivation to feel better. I provide individual therapy, crisis intervention, and parenting education in parent sessions. 

I work with middle-aged children, teens, and young adults. I love helping youth navigate the unique challenges that come with the developmental stage they are in. I help young people dealing with issues that make them feel misunderstood, stuck, or not good enough. I value providing a safe, confidential space for kids and teens, but encourage some parent involvement and parent solutions. 

When working with young adults I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other quality of life challenges that come with this new life transition. I understand that this time of living comes with uncertainty, need for identity, and new relationship struggles. It’s a phase full of changes! This can impact your mood and quality of life. I want to help with overcoming those things that are holding you back from reaching your potential.

I conduct human-centered therapy and use emotion focused interventions. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and also utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My experience includes working in an inpatient behavioral hospital, juvenile detention centers, a high school, with Primary Care Providers, and in private practice!

I received my clinical Master’s of Social Work with a concentration in Child and Family Welfare from the University of Utah. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. 

Mindy Bell

About Mindy

She/Her/Hers

“A lot of what looks dead is really just biding its time” ~ Dickon says this to Mary in the Broadway musical adaption of A Secret Garden. As you may know, this children’s story describes the harsh childhood of a young girl named Mary who discovers an abandoned garden on her uncle’s property. Although the garden initially appears to be dead, Dickon and a few other friends teach Mary that with regular attention and nourishment, it can be made beautiful again. The children work hard to revive the garden and, in the process, help the whole family come back to life. 

To me, this story is a beautiful metaphor for the counseling process. Perhaps you have experienced one or many of the losses, traumas, injustices, diagnoses, changes, or confusing circumstances that can make life difficult. Perhaps there are aspects of your life that for various reasons, like Mary’s garden, you have neglected or locked away. No matter the types of challenges you face or how daunting they feel, I believe there exists in you an indestructible vitality ready to be revived and strengthened. Counseling offers a way to tend to this essential part of yourself. It can provide a place to find relief, strengthen your abilities, and experience supportive care. Amazingly, as we heal ourselves, those around us are invited to heal, too.  

My own positive experiences as a client are what motivated me to become a therapist. In counseling, I learned to talk about painful experiences, connect more fully with my emotions, and discover important things about myself that I had previously repressed in order to survive an abusive childhood and adolescence. (But don’t worry, counseling is not always about processing one’s childhood.) It is my honor to help humans of all ages and types who are ready to invest in their own growth.

I am especially passionate about working with creatives, those who identify as Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), and those seeking greater connection with their intuition (no matter how “far away” your creativity or intuition may feel). Other passions of mine include helping clients overcome personal and cultural trauma; process marginalization or minority stress; heal from religious abuse; develop racial identity; and explore sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression in an affirming environment. I have experience integrating expressive art methods, dreamwork, and transpersonal/spiritual experiences in therapy. I love helping adults remember how to rest and play! 

In addition to deeper counseling work, I also offer coaching sessions for those seeking short-term support on a specific goal. One unique thing I can provide because of my background working as an artist and performer is performance-specific coaching with a mental health focus. Together we can game-plan how to optimize your (or your teen’s) artistic life in a way that is healthy for the whole person. 

I received my Masters of Science in Counseling from the University of North Texas, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Self Compassion Blog

Aymen Osmani Pasha

About Aymen

She/Her/Hers

I believe there isn’t a step-by-step manual to navigate the unpredictable seasons of life; however, I aim to encourage and help you write that manual in your own words, at your own pace. Seeking therapy is in itself a sign of strength and courage, as it can seem easier to try to ignore difficult thoughts, emotions, or experiences. “I’m tired” commonly encompasses physical exhaustion from living in a world which expects us to have a career, socialize regularly, sustain healthy relationships, take care of family, exercise, and maintain a healthy diet—all while being emotionally present. Therapy provides a safe haven where it’s okay to be “tired”, because a therapist knows this phrase can mean so much more than physical exhaustion. In learning to relate to our experiences in new ways, we can become more grounded and compassionate with ourselves and others through the seasons of life.

At the root of my work, I seek to provide a safe and supportive space for people based on their unique needs. I have experience working with culturally diverse individuals and promote positive regard for all backgrounds and beliefs. My areas of focus include treating: anxiety in all its forms (avoidance, overthinking, perfectionism, obsessive/compulsive symptoms etc.), depression, low self-esteem, relational trauma, family/relationship issues, life transitions, sexual functioning, and identity development.

I received my Masters of Arts in Counseling from Northwestern University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor.

Kayla Zackary

About Kayla

(She/Her/Hers)

Being a human is hard, and the experience of human life is vastly complex as each person is individually shaped by their unique biological make-up, life experiences, major life events, surrounding environments, and relationships. While no two people have identical life experiences, all share in the experiencing of suffering, pain, confusion, and loss as the result of the brokenness that is innately part of the human condition. I believe that just as humans are inflicted with deep pain, so are they capable of change, growth, and finding satisfaction. 

It is my hope to provide a warm and safe space for you to share your experiences, pain, trauma, and questions, knowing that they are being held with care, respect, honor, and gentleness. As a counselor, it is crucial to me that you feel comfortable, seen, known, and heard and your well-being will always be my priority. In the therapy room, I hope to help clients heal from trauma, anxiety, or depression while improving self esteem, communication, boundary setting, and relationships. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds and enjoy working with teens, young adults, and couples. 

I graduated from Dallas Baptist University with a double major in Psychology and Sociology and graduated with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Texas at Tyler. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor.

More About Me Blog

Amanda Hinchey

About Amanda

She/Her/Hers

Navigating life’s unpredictable turns can take a toll on anyone’s mental health. Maybe you’re seeking understanding in a confusing time or hoping to be challenged and believed in. Whether you need some extra encouragement and a non-judgmental ear to listen or you feel completely lost and are searching for purpose, together we can accomplish your goals. I love helping people see other perspectives and possibilities they may have never considered. I believe everyone is capable of discovering and utilizing their inner strengths to get them to where they want to go.

I primarily work with adolescents and young adults incorporating solution-focused and person-centered approaches as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to best fit each individual’s needs. Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety, stress management, and communication as well as setting healthy boundaries, increasing self-esteem and self-worth, finding purpose, and determining identity and values.

Seeking help is the first step on the journey to healing and understanding. I would love to go on this journey with you. As The Office’s Michael Scott said, “You have no idea how high I can fly.”

I received my Master of Education in Guidance Counseling and Professional Counseling from Texas Christian University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor.

More About Me Blog

Molly McGregor

About Molly

She/Her/Hers

I have a passion for helping clients unpack what is getting in their way, make sense of emotions and patterns, and learn skills to bring more stability and satisfaction to one’s life. It is an honor to hold space for individuals and couples from all backgrounds, and I am deeply committed to accompanying my clients on their journey towards authentic and fulfilling lives. 

I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic process is a collaborative and supportive relationship between the client and therapist. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore the areas of their lives that feel challenging, while also acknowledging the strengths that they already possess. I enjoy working with individuals and couples on a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, self-esteem, identity concerns, and life transitions. 

I practice from a holistic point of view, employing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy to help guide clients through whatever challenges they’re experiencing. I believe the mind/body connection plays am integral role in each individual’s path toward self-understanding and acceptance. 

I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Texas at Dallas. I am also a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) which provides a strong foundation for a non-judgmental, curious, mindfulness-based approach. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor. 

Madi Brewer

About Madi

She/Her/Hers

Hi! My name is Madi Brewer and I am a graduate student and intern here at Bright Space Therapy. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Equine Assisted Therapy at Texas Tech University, and am currently finishing up my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. 

Due to my own personal challenges throughout my life, I have acquired a passion for helping anyone and everyone tap into their innate potential for growth in order to lead a happy and healthy life. I strive to make the counseling process comfortable and judgement free by showing empathy, compassion, and positive regard to each client. Seeking out counseling is the first step towards this growth and I know it can be hard, so I applaud you for having the will and strength to do so!

I have experience working with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and perinatal and postpartum issues. I have a special interest in helping young women going through struggles up to and including life transitions, relationships, stress, self-esteem, abuse, and grief. My approach is rooted in solution-focused and person-centered modalities tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each client, incorporating Narrative Therapy techniques, CBT and DBT, and Parts Work so that I may help you in achieving a sense of wholeness in your life.

In addition, I have been a therapeutic riding instructor at the Texas Tech Therapeutic Riding Center for 4 years. During this time I had the opportunity to teach individuals with physical, cognitive, and mental health disorders how to ride horses as a form of therapeutic intervention. I have worked with clients with autism, downs syndrome, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida, as well as veterans with PTSD and hearing and visual disabilities. I also have experience teaching children and adults with an array of mental health issues including anxiety and depression. While I taught these individuals different skills with horse riding, I also had the opportunity to work alongside licensed Speech Therapists, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Licensed Professional Counselors in a different form of therapeutic riding called “hippotherapy”, in which the horse’s movement and gait is used to provide motor and sensory input. 

I’m so happy you’re here and I’m truly honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you during your journey of healing and self-discovery! 

I am a counseling intern and will be available for appointments at the rate of $60 per session until December 2024. I am under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor.

Emily Brayton

About Emily

(She/Her/Hers)

My passion for counseling stems from my own experiences and struggles, as well as my belief that mental health should be a universal priority. Everyone experiences times in their life where things may seem unexpected and challenging. My goal in therapy is to help create a warm, empathic, and inviting environment, where clients can feel free to grow and express themselves without the fear of being judged.

I have experience and enjoy working with teens, young adults, couples, and families. I have specialized training in ADD/ADHD and Executive Functioning, Postpartum and Perinatal therapy, Career Counseling, Depression, and Anxiety/Stress Reduction. Using evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy techniques, I strive to help clients achieve their goals. Additionally, I enjoy using aspects of Art Therapy and in my work with teens. Due to my own experiences, I especially enjoy working with individuals going through difficult life transitions such as breakups, divorce, school/ job change. I also have a passion for helping clients find fulfillment in their everyday lives by implementing positive life structure and self care that reduces depression and anxiety.

I received my Master of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor – Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, LPC-S.

ADHD Blog

Mindy Bell

About Mindy

(She/Her/Hers)

“A lot of what looks dead is really just biding its time” ~ Dickon says this to Mary in the Broadway musical adaption of A Secret Garden. As you may know, this children’s story describes the harsh childhood of a young girl named Mary who discovers an abandoned garden on her uncle’s property. Although the garden initially appears to be dead, Dickon and a few other friends teach Mary that with regular attention and nourishment, it can be made beautiful again. The children work hard to revive the garden and, in the process, help the whole family come back to life. 

To me, this story is a beautiful metaphor for the counseling process. Perhaps you have experienced one or many of the losses, traumas, injustices, diagnoses, changes, or confusing circumstances that can make life difficult. Perhaps there are aspects of your life that for various reasons, like Mary’s garden, you have neglected or locked away. No matter the types of challenges you face or how daunting they feel, I believe there exists in you an indestructible vitality ready to be revived and strengthened. Counseling offers a way to tend to this essential part of yourself. It can provide a place to find relief, strengthen your abilities, and experience supportive care. Amazingly, as we heal ourselves, those around us are invited to heal, too.  

My own positive experiences as a client are what motivated me to become a therapist. In counseling, I learned to talk about painful experiences, connect more fully with my emotions, and discover important things about myself that I had previously repressed in order to survive an abusive childhood and adolescence. (But don’t worry, counseling is not always about processing one’s childhood.) It is my honor to help humans of all ages and types who are ready to invest in their own growth.

I am especially passionate about working with creatives, those who identify as Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), and those seeking greater connection with their intuition (no matter how “far away” your creativity or intuition may feel). Other passions of mine include helping clients overcome personal and cultural trauma; process marginalization or minority stress; heal from religious abuse; develop racial identity; and explore sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression in an affirming environment. I have experience integrating expressive art methods, dreamwork, and transpersonal/spiritual experiences in therapy. I love helping adults remember how to rest and play! 

In addition to deeper counseling work, I also offer coaching sessions for those seeking short-term support on a specific goal. One unique thing I can provide because of my background working as an artist and performer is performance-specific coaching with a mental health focus. Together we can game-plan how to optimize your (or your teen’s) artistic life in a way that is healthy for the whole person. 

I received my Masters of Science in Counseling from the University of North Texas, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Self Compassion Blog

Sarah Penoli

About Sarah

(She/Her/Hers)

In the counseling room, I work to instill hope and increase self-esteem while clients learn to improve their relationships to help them flourish in their daily lives. I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, and families. 

I have specialized training in EFIT trauma therapy, Shame/Perfectionism, and Anxiety/Stress Reduction. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to work through the struggles of life and work towards more self-worth, better communication, validation, and growth. I especially love working with teen girls to help through one of the most challenging times in life- adolescence! 

I have worked with clients going through: depression, anxiety, perfectionism, blended families, trauma, and relational distress. I received my BS in Psychology from Texas A&M University and MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Texas Tech University Science Center.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and am under the supervision of Katie Nix, LPC Supervisor. I have availability during the day and in the evening to accommodate your busy schedule.

More About Me Blog

Aymen Osmani Pasha

About Aymen

She/Her/Hers

I believe there isn’t a step-by-step manual to navigate the unpredictable seasons of life; however, I aim to encourage and help you write that manual in your own words, at your own pace. Seeking therapy is in itself a sign of strength and courage, as it can seem easier to try to ignore difficult thoughts, emotions, or experiences. “I’m tired” commonly encompasses physical exhaustion from living in a world which expects us to have a career, socialize regularly, sustain healthy relationships, take care of family, exercise, and maintain a healthy diet—all while being emotionally present. Therapy provides a safe haven where it’s okay to be “tired”, because a therapist knows this phrase can mean so much more than physical exhaustion. In learning to relate to our experiences in new ways, we can become more grounded and compassionate with ourselves and others through the seasons of life.

At the root of my work, I seek to provide a safe and supportive space for people based on their unique needs. I have experience working with culturally diverse individuals and promote positive regard for all backgrounds and beliefs. My areas of focus include treating: anxiety in all its forms (avoidance, overthinking, perfectionism, obsessive/compulsive symptoms etc.), depression, low self-esteem, relational trauma, family/relationship issues, life transitions, sexual functioning, and identity development.

I received my Masters of Arts in Counseling from Northwestern University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor.