Thrive Counseling & Psychology

Jessica Schmidt

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Avondale Office

I believe that counseling helps us to create wellness and peace within ourselves no matter our circumstances. I feel the therapeutic relationship should provide you with confidence and inner strength to face life’s challenges. My goal is to help you gain understanding of yourself and the struggles you face in order for us to improve your quality of life.

I have years of experience in working with many populations and am skilled in working with individuals who are experiencing mental illness, addiction, trauma, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief, life transition, etc. My desire is to provide a space for nonjudgmental transparency and guidance in helping you work through any issues you may be facing.

Jessica CAN BE REACHED

DIRECTLY AT

(205) 265-8176

McKenzie Gurkin

Licensed Professional Counselor, Avondale Office

I believe everyone deserves a strong and therapeutic relationship with a professional who truly cares. Life can be tough to navigate and sometimes we could use extra help in dealing with many of life’s stressors. We all have innate greatness and the ability to tackle even the hardest of obstacles. Often, we need guidance uncovering our own personal strengths.

Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, or any other difficult life transitions, I am here to help. I have therapeutic experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families in both a group and individualized setting. My priority is to help you uncover the best version of yourself while building a safe, trusting environment.

McKenzie can be reached

directly at

(205) 222-5564

Christy cole

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Avondale Office

I believe therapy can be an empowering experience for individuals, enabling them to focus on their unique strengths and achieve their personal goals. My primary goal is to assist clients in recognizing their strengths and utilizing them to overcome obstacles and challenges, ultimately creating solutions that will benefit them. I understand that every individual has different needs, and therefore, developing their unique skill sets is crucial for their growth.

As a mental health professional with several years of experience, I have worked with various populations and areas of need, including depression, life adjustments, trauma, mood management, grief, and substance abuse. My approach is to provide a collaborative, inclusive, and safe environment for clients to work on their issues and learn to thrive. I believe in meeting clients where they are in the present and supporting them to continue growing by maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship.

Christy can be reached

directly at

(205) 202-9618

kayla kent

Licensed Professional Counselor, Avondale Office

I believe that providing a safe place for my clients to be authentic and feel heard is one of the most important parts of being a counselor. My goal is to use that safe space to foster growth and positive change to improve the overall quality of life for each and every client. Through processing the struggles and gaining the tools to overcome life's challenges, I believe this is possible for all.

I have a background in working with clients of all ages and backgrounds, including but not limited to those who have experienced traumatic experiences such as sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as those struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and suicide ideation. My hope is to be a guide for you to explore areas of concern and develop the tools you need to meet your goals.

kayla can be reached

directly at

(205) 587-4589

laura westbrook

Licensed Professional Counselor, Hoover Office

I believe it takes a lot of vulnerability to be able to open up to someone else and I am always grateful that my clients trust me with the most intimate parts of their self. My favorite part about being a counselor is getting to know someone and hear their story. I work with a wide array of clients; from LGBTQ+ community members, survivors of trauma, those struggling with addiction and many other issues that affect an individuals quality of life. The ideal client for me is any individual willing to explore the therapeutic process in order to work towards building the life they desire.

Finding the right therapist to meet your needs that provides a comfortable and safe space is crucial to creating a solid foundation for change. I strongly believe that the relationship between therapist and client should be one that fosters acceptance, empathy, and connection. Using a person-centered model is my best tool for accomplishing this with clients.

laura can be reached

directly at

(205) 543-7596

jamie wade

Licensed Professional Counselor, Hoover Office

I believe in providing a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space for clients to not only process life difficulties and stressors but also recognize strengths and growth. I value maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship between client and therapist, and believe that often that relationship is the most vital component of counseling. I truly believe in the power of being present and holding space for the thoughts and feelings of others. My goal is to always meet people where they are and for each person to feel seen and heard. The full spectrum of human emotions are welcome in the therapy space, and I encourage people to “feel their feelings” in this accepting and supportive environment. I feel that this environment assists in empowering people to utilize the strengths they possess, and facilitate positive changes in their lives. 

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked several years in the mental health field in different types of positions. I particularly enjoy working with individuals on issues such as anxiety, depression, life stressors, coping skills, and self-care. I utilize a person/client centered and client led approach, believing that people are the experts on themselves. 

jamie can be reached

directly at

(659) 345-1735

daynia cheddar

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Hoover Office

I believe it takes bravery and strength to commit to confronting your most difficult challenges. Reaching out for help can be scary. My role as your therapist is to help you face and overcome your fears. It is important for me to create a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment for all my clients. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma and abuse, eating disorders, depression and LGBTQ+ issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and it is my goal to collaborate with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique and specific needs. I have 6+ years of experience utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing and solution-focused therapy. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

daynia can be reached

directly at

(205) 821-2365

Amanda Reed

Licensed Professional Counselor, Hoover Office

I believe that providing a safe place for my clients to be themselves and feel heard is one of the most important aspects of being a counselor. My goal is to use that safe space to foster growth, positive change, and acceptance to assist in improving the overall quality of life for each client. Helping them process their struggles, learn their strengths, and gain tools to assist in life's challenges. I believe this is possible for everyone.

I have a background in working with clients of all ages, who have experienced traumatic experiences such as sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and suicide ideation. My hope is to help guide you through your challenges to help you become the best version of yourself, develop the tools you need to meet your goals, and be a listening ear so you feel heard. I have worked really hard to make my safe space a judgement free zone for all, and would love to help in your journey for a better you.

Amanda can be reached

directly at

205-202-0414

Tim Deloach

Licensed Professional Counselor, Hoover Office

I believe that, regardless of the issue you are struggling with, we can work together to make your life substantially better. I recognize and can relate to the "struggle" we can have between where we are now and where we would like to be. My approach goes beyond just talking about the issue; my focus is always working with the client to find real, meaningful solutions to create the change they are looking for.

My time as a therapist for the last twenty plus years has given me a wide range of experience in a variety of areas that can negativity impact the quality of our lives including grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and substance abuse. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to help people improve the quality of their lives and always look forward to helping anyone who reaches out a hand to ask for help.

tim can be reached

directly at

(205) 743-9579

Taylor gilmore

Licensed Professional Counselor, Vestavia Hills Office

I believe that every individual has the capacity for personal growth and fulfillment. It is my job to help clients navigate through any barriers that are hindering them from living life at their fullest potential. As a therapist who values trust, my goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment to explore all thoughts, feelings and experiences without fear of judgment or shame. I encourage every person to bring their genuine self, as I am human too and can understand the difficulties this life may present with.

I have experience helping clients with eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, etc. My goal is to collaborate with each client to identify specific modalities that appropriately address unique needs, goals and values. I look forward to providing what is needed to help each client navigate change and find a sense of peace and purpose within their own lives.

taylor can be reached

directly at

(205) 206-9425

Amanda johnston

Licensed Professional Counselor, Vestavia Hills Office

I believe a client’s life is a journey toward the best version of self. That journey is filled with many unexpected moments, allowing a client to take a deeper look into why they make certain choices. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Reality Therapy (RT). With my clients, we look at the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and actions in past situations, while helping them reach their desired goals through positive, healthy choices. It may seem daunting, but I am here to listen and support my clients through the process.  

My twenty-plus years of experience have afforded me opportunities to work with clients of all ages and needs in individual, family, and group settings. These opportunities include community mental health, school counseling, and child welfare. My passion, however, has been with clients struggling to find themselves, make sense of the world around them, and create healthy relationships with others. I look forward to taking this journey with you!

Amanda can be reached

directly at

(205)235-1583

ben culverhouse

Licensed Professional Counselor, Vestavia Hills Office

I believe that change is hard, and therapy is an endeavor that takes courage, but it is also an opportunity for healing, growth, and moving forward. For those who have never been, therapy can appear intimidating, but it is really just a process of identifying areas to work on, developing some goals, and then working toward those goals. It is awesome getting to work with people who are ready to start that process of change and experience the mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational growth that happens as a result. Some of the areas that I’ve worked with clients on are anxiety, depression, trauma, couples and premarital, borderline personality, and interpersonal issues.

ben can be reached

directly at

(205) 240-3602

kELLIE MURPHY

Licensed Master Social Worker, Vestavia Hills Office

I believe in the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can openly discuss the challenges and struggles affecting their lives. With dedication, I strive to support individuals as they navigate life's obstacles, empowering them to achieve their personal goals. 

As a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), I bring years of experience working with diverse families and individuals. My practice focuses on helping adolescents and adults address various issues, including life stressors, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Informed by EMDR and trained in CBT, I employ techniques such as EMDR, CBT, and DBT to guide clients towards self-discovery and growth, assisting them in becoming the best versions of themselves.

Kellie can be reached

directly at

205-291-8304

Katharine Sweatt

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Trussville Office

I believe that each person has the power within themselves to change their lives. My goal is to provide a safe, encouraging, and non-judgmental environment where we will be able to explore the struggles that you are facing in an effective way. At times, problems in our lives can seem overwhelming and paralyzing and often we have never had the opportunity to learn the skills we need in these difficult situations. I want to be able to help you find the clarity and strength that you need to overcome your struggles and to reach your full potential.

I am passionate about helping each person find their strength and their peace. I have many years of experience working with people with anxiety, depression and substance abuse. My approach is multi-faceted to fit each person’s individual needs and goals.

katharine can be reached

directly at

(205) 743-8765

Leah Braue

Licensed Professional Counselor, Trussville Office

I believe it is brave to seek counseling, and I know positive change can be achieved. Through participation in therapy, people can develop more self-awareness and gain peace of mind. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and move at the pace they decide. My goal is to help people make changes to their thoughts and behaviors in order to improve their relationships and lives. My therapeutic style is respectful and nonjudgmental. 

I have experience counseling adolescents and adults with varying issues such as life transitions, complicated relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and grief. My desire is to provide a supportive environment and collaborate with people on reaching their goals.

Leah can be reached

directly at

(205) 266-2732

Christina Webb

Licensed Professional Counselor, Trussville Office

I believe therapy can help us overcome the obstacles that keep us stuck and unable to embrace a life worth living. At times we all feel lost or overwhelmed by changes in our lives. Life was not delivered with a book of instructions, and it can be challenging, disappointing, stressful, and even lonely at times. Each of us must make sense of our world. When things don't make sense we experience anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, stress, or other difficulties. My goal is to help each individual or couple become more effective at dealing with and developing coping skills so they can better manage their own unique life situation. Each person is unique; therefore, we will work together to craft a specific plan designed for your needs.

I have over 10 years of experience working with teens and adults of all ages in individual, couples and family therapy. Among the issues I address in therapy are anxiety, depression, relationship issues, communication, stress, substance abuse and grief. I believe in a multi-faceted approach that includes tackling dysfunctional thinking, teaching healthy coping skills, addressing sources of distress, understanding each unique situation, and identifying possible solutions. As a therapist, I do not tell you what to do. I strive to empower you to make the best possible decisions.

Christina can be reached

directly at

(205) 202-9873

aSRES (ORIT) gETANEK

Licensed Professional Counselor, Trussville Office

I believe each of us deserves to live a beautiful and fulfilling life. Anxiety, trauma, depression and even life daily challenges can make this task seem impossible. Moreover, when we face several challenges at once, we can be so overwhelmed that it feels as if we are unable to navigate our life. My goal is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental space to identify your life obstacles and guide you to uncover your inner power and personal strengths in order to live a better life.

Working with various populations in many settings over the last 10 years has taught me that each person has a story to tell. I am here to actively listen to your story, provide feedback, help you make the connection, and assist you in rewriting the narrative of of your story that is not serving you well. Healing is possible, growth is possible, and living a quality life is possible! Let me help you learn the tools to achieve your goals.

aSRES can be reached

directly at

205-202-9744

Kim Delahoussaye

Licensed Professional Counselor, Gulf Shores Office

I believe that change and healing can begin for you today! My goal is to help you feel safe, respected and heard and to work alongside you to meet your needs and goals. Whether that be addressing  trauma, stress and anxiety, addressing transition/change, or building skills for better communication, confidence and relationships, I believe that I can help facilitate what you need to achieve a better quality of life. 

I do my best to develop a treatment for each person that is as specific to that person as possible. I am trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and a practitioner of Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI). I have years of experience working with a range of populations from children to adults in individual and group settings. As your therapist, I will walk beside you in finding a healthy, new sense of normalcy.

kim can be reached

directly at

(205) 249-7701

Kristen Lyle

Licensed Marriage & Family Counselor, Gulf Shores Office

I believe there is always a positive path forward; sometimes we just need some help to find it, Do you find yourself struggling in your relationships? Overwhelmed with stress, anxiety, or depression? Having a hard time with life but unsure why? These issues are hard to overcome alone. My hope is to come alongside you in life's stressors, with guidance and insight to help you achieve your goals.

I've worked with couples, individuals, and families in all stages of life. I've also worked in the court system, providing parenting classes as well as family and individual therapy. My goal is to provide a space where we can tackle issues large and small, and develop a plan to implement healthy changes and boundaries in your life.

kristen can be reached

directly at

(251) 284-9021

Nicole young

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Gulf Shores Office

I believe all people deserve to experience unconditional positive regard; the acceptance of who you are regardless of what you say or do. You are unique, and I like to embrace that uniqueness and show you how to use it as your own personal superpower. Although we cannot avoid loss, pain, disappointment, and trauma, I find that when people connect with others they are inherently strengthened. There is power in telling your story in safe spaces.

I have over 15 years of experience helping clients who experience a wide range of difficulties. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, and addiction/recovery, and enjoy seeing the moment when someone recognizes their own power within a challenging situation. I am trained in Brainspotting, which is an evidence-based treatment for trauma. I also have experience working with LGBTQ+ issues, including the complexities associated with transitioning.

Nicole can be reached

directly at

251-861-1055

Sheri Hendon

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Foley Office

I believe that every person has the power within themselves to make big changes in their life - to have a life worth living. My goal is to help people recognize their own strengths and provide encouragement in a safe, non-judgmental environment that can be a little fun sometimes. No one comes to counseling because their life is going great! Seeking help to overcome life’s problems is a sign of great strength.

I have over 15 years of experience working with Adults dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems, Addiction and Grief. I enjoy helping people deal with their Trauma and often use EMDR. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I am well trained to assist adults affected by their own or others’ compulsive sexual behavior.

“You have peace," the old woman said, "when you make it with yourself.” ― Mitch Albom

Sheri can be reached

directly at

850-361-3821

Donald Mulkerne

Licensed Professional Counselor, Foley Office

I believe there are many benefits to participating in counseling and therapy as part of achieving and maintaining optimal health. Successful high-achieving individuals and groups have mental health professionals as ready resources to stay focused and confident. People participating in therapy routinely describe themselves as happier, more productive, better able to cope with life stress and interact with others more effectively including their family and others. The long-term benefits of therapy are well-documented in medical and psychological journals. Talk to a therapist to learn how you may improve your quality of life.

I have been practicing in a variety of settings since 1980 when I earned my Ph.D. I have extensive advanced training in therapeutic skills and have trained others at FSU and and USA College of Medicine. I focus on assisting couples to learn how to have a happy and fulfilling relationship. I enjoy working with active-duty military and veterans and treating people struggling with anxiety, depression, panic, PTSD, addiction, and other chronic issues. 

Donald can be reached

directly at

850-361-8134

connie albright

Licensed Independent Social Worker, Foley Office

I believe we all have the capacity to heal ourselves and that therapy has transformational, color-of-the-sky changing power. Life can be very hard and reaching out for help is a brave step toward reclaiming your life. The amazing part of therapy is that you won’t be alone to “figure it out” - in fact, I’ll be your biggest advocate and cheerleader! I have personally benefited from therapy and I use my own experiences to bring empathy, safety and compassion to the therapeutic process. It would be an honor to be part of your journey.

I have extensive clinical experience working with clients from 17 years old and up and use primarily Internal Family Systems (IFS informed), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT informed) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) to expedite the therapeutic process and help people feel better very quickly. I love working with active duty military and veterans and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, grief, phobias, addictions and thought disorders.

“The paradox of trauma is that it has both the power to destroy and the power to transform and resurrect” - Peter A. Levine

Connie can be reached

directly at

850-332-2706

Jason Leslie

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Huntsville Office

I believe earnestly that within each of us abides immeasurable worth! How do we reach the best versions of ourselves? Peer associations, life struggles, family values, and genetic factors often influence how we show up in life. As a caring therapist, I am here to help you explore various dimensions of life and to fortify thinking patterns which produce healthy decision-making.

Traumatic events can be devastating. However, they need not permanently impair the magnificence of the human constitution. Mind-body-soul synergy keeps us resilient.

I value mutual respect and unconditional positive regard. You possess tremendous strengths and resources! Without question, you have been successful before and will aspire, achieve, and be uplifted once again. A fantastic, broad range of therapeutic approaches and evidenced-based interventions are employed by me to promote self-actualization. I promote being solutions-focused. If you are ready to start our journey together, kindly schedule your appointment today.

Jason can be reached

directly at

256-258-9341

michelle white

Licensed Professional Counselor, Tuscaloosa Office

I believe that we can all find our own peace. I am experienced in helping my clients of all ages deal with a number of issues such as anxiety, depression, stress management, parenting, grief, infertility, life changes, problem solving, and goal setting. I help my clients identify and find creative solutions to unmet needs which I believe, in turn, helps them discover what they can do to implement effective changes. I do not believe that "happiness" is a goal for life but ways to find comfort and resiliency in moments is most important. Overall, I help my clients discover ways to "Struggle Better". I offer a safe and confidential space to be your authentic self without judgement. Being vulnerable is a risk that can feel uncomfortable. As I get to know each of my clients, we spend time building trust in the safety of this space. Through this trust, clients are able to allow parts of themselves to emerge. This is where healing happens.

michelle can be reached

directly at

(205) 586-2829

Rachael Neubacher

Licensed Professional Counselor, Tuscaloosa Office

I believe in trying to support clients in their healing process no matter how big or small an issue might appear. This is why I chose to specialize in trauma and have worked in the addiction field. We’ve all seen how life brings many challenges and sometimes one of the biggest many face is finding people who listen and empathize.

I specialize in trauma and crisis. I’ve also worked on the addiction field for over 9 years. I provide treatment for children through adults and am happy to work with individuals, families, and groups.

No matter where you are in life, I hope you reach your goals and the potential you dream of. Let me be part of your team and what helps you realize you can not only heal and survive, but you can also thrive.

Rachel can be reached

directly at

(205) 210-8289