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. 

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. 

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, Couples/Relational Counseling, and more. 

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.

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.

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 Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor. 

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.

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.

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.

Cody Sanders

About Cody

(He/Him/His)

Life is full of the sudden and unexpected. Oftentimes our feelings are overwhelming, and knowing where to begin can feel impossible. It is possible to encounter deep pain and still have meaning and hope in life. My interest in counseling began following the loss of my best friend to suicide. With help, I found hope, guidance, and healing. It was in these sessions that I began to understand the transformative power of therapy. Now, as a therapist, I am excited for the opportunity to help guide you through whatever you are facing.   

My approach to therapy begins with the therapeutic relationship.  Having a supportive, judgment-free environment allows you the opportunity to express your feelings freely and safely. Through our sessions, we will work together to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and identity conflict. My therapeutic approach centers around three models of treatment: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).  By challenging our negative thoughts, learning new coping skills, and being true to ourselves, we can fundamentally transform our lives. 

My experience has taught me that identity, authenticity, and positive self-expression are vital to healthy living. It is for this reason that a lot of my professional work has centered on working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and their families. The therapy room can provide a safe space to explore all aspects of identity and what role you hope it will play in your life. 

I am also passionate about suicide prevention and various forms of grief. I have supervised a suicide hotline and led grief support groups for families impacted by suicide. I have also worked in hospice, helping individuals come to terms with their illness, and helping families prepare for the death of their loved one. Oftentimes, support is limited for the grieving. I understand, firsthand, how difficult it is to process the loss of a loved one and the complex emotions involved in working through it.    

There is hope in therapy. I look forward to walking with you on your journey through life.  

I received my Masters of Social Work with a specialization in mental health and substance abuse from the University of Texas at Arlington and am available for virtual sessions. 

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.

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. 

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 Associate under the supervision of Katie Nix, MA LPC-Supervisor. 

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.