I am a Intern in my second year of Masters of Social Worker 4 years of experience working with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, drug use, PTSD, domestic abuse, OCD, and ADHD. I have also worked with many people who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse with sex work and trafficking survivors.
My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, trauma focused, solution focused, and acceptance and commitment therapy.  I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

I look forward to working with you!

Meet Julia! She is a practicum student at the University of Kentucky, currently training in clinical social work. You can expect enthusiastic support while working with her in a client-centered environment where you're safe to unravel the thoughts you've been carrying alone.
Julia believes therapy is not one-size-fits-all so she tailors her approach to fit your individual needs. Julia usually works with evidence-based practices such as Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Humanistic Theory and is happy to use alternative theories if she believes it's a better fit!  

With experience as a victim advocate, she has worked extensively with adolescents and families affected by trauma. Her particular passion lies in assisting clients with body image issues, relationship issues and the process of rediscovering yourself after a turbulent upbringing.

In Julia's downtime, she recharges with roadtrips, swimming and cuddling her cats Biscuit and Muffin! Julia is here to cheer you on!

Hello! My name is Nicole, and I’m a Master of Social Work practicum student currently completing my clinical training at Kinder Mind. I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences at their own pace.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and respect for each person’s unique journey. I strive to meet clients where they are, drawing from evidence-based practices while being mindful of each person’s cultural background, strengths, and goals. I’m particularly interested in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and stress.

As a practicum student, I bring a fresh perspective, a strong commitment to ethical care, and a deep desire to learn and grow alongside my clients. I’m honored to be part of your healing journey and look forward to supporting you through this chapter of your life.

I am a Licensed BSW and current MSW student completing my practicum with Kinder Mind. Having lived across the U.S., I have worked with diverse populations addressing depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, trauma, and various life challenges. My therapy style is warm, collaborative, and straightforward.
I am passionate about supporting individuals who are ready to bring intentionality to their therapeutic journey. I work with clients from all backgrounds who are motivated to create meaningful change in their lives. Whether you're an athlete, military member, student, parent, or anyone seeking growth, I value the drive and commitment you bring to this process.

My approach integrates your existing strengths into the therapeutic process. I provide feedback that is clear, constructive, and compassionate. I believe it takes courage to work toward the life you want, and I am committed to supporting, challenging, and encouraging clients with honesty and compassion every step of the way.

Jenna is a masters level practicum student at kinder mind where she provides support to individual adults experiencing anxiety, paranoia, psychosis, and bi-polar disorder.  She is passionate about making a difference in peoples life through encouragement, empowerment, and commitment to dignity.
Jenna has a bachelors degree in social work and experience working with adults in in-patient psychiatric care.  

Working with Jenna you can expect a collaborative client centered approach that focuses on strengths, resilience, and skill building.

I’m a clinical social work intern with a strong foundation in human development, strategic planning, and social dynamics. I bring a unique perspective to mental health, particularly in supporting men as they navigate emotional challenges, work/life balance, life transitions, and relational issues. My approach is grounded in empathy, impactful therapeutic methods, and a deep commitment to personal growth. I aim to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop insight, and build practical tools for lasting change.

My name is Gretchen Hyler, and I am a Masters of Social Work practicum provider at Kinder Mind. I a currently in my second year of graduate school at the University of Kentucky’s School of Social work, and I have degrees in Nursing and biology.
My goal is to help anyone who is struggling to understand themselves, their choices behavior, or their actions through education, empowerment, and facilitation. I believe the therapist’s role is to support clients in identifying and attaining congruence—where values, goals, and actions align—by fostering self-examination and building on the strengths, insight, and tools they already possess. My work is guided by a trauma-informed, person-centered perspective and shaped by a deep appreciation for each individual’s lived experience.
I draw from a multi-disciplinary perspective, and  I value tailoring support to fit each client’s unique needs. I want to help you get from where you are to where you want to be.

Ashley Alkema is a Master of Social Work practicum student at Kinder Mind, where she supports individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. She brings a strong background as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with extensive experience collaborating with children, families, schools, and interdisciplinary teams to foster growth and resilience. Currently completing her MSW at the University of Kentucky, Ashley integrates psychodynamic, humanistic, pragmatic, and ecosystems perspectives into her practice. Her therapeutic style is compassionate and client-centered, grounded in trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches. She values creating a safe, collaborative space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported without judgment. Ashley is particularly passionate about supporting children, families, and individuals experiencing stress or emotional overwhelm. Drawing on both clinical training and real-world experience, she is committed to providing accessible care.

I'm Katie and I am a board-certified LMSW in the state of Pennsylvania. My approach to therapy is trauma informed and client-centered. I draw from many therapeutic frameworks including CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic therapy. I have experience supporting individuals through a wide variety of issues from infidelity and other relationship issues, substance use concerns, sexual trauma, LGBTQ+ identity, and more. As a therapist, I hope to co-create a safe yet transformative space with clients to achieve their goals.

Hi, my name is Jada (she/her) and I am working toward receiving my license to be a clinical social worker (LCSW). I enjoy using trauma-informed approaches that center psychodynamic strategies, dialectical behavior therapy, and culturally-inclusive care. I have specialized experience in interpersonal violence prevention (DV/SV), youth advocacy, and promoting intersectionality through a systems framework. I have additional experience working with neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, PTSD, and depression. I love to bake, paint, and write spoken word in my free time while learning more about how I can improve as a provider.

Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to move forward, you're not alone. I work with individuals just like you—people who want to break free from the frustration of feeling like you're not making progress. Whether you're struggling with balancing different aspects of your life, managing stress, or navigating transitions, I am here to help. I’ve spent years working with people of all ages in educational and non-profit settings, so I understand the many pressures life can place on us. I’m committed to providing a safe, supportive space where you feel truly heard and understood—no matter what you're going through. As a daughter, wife, and parent, I understand firsthand the joy and struggles of balancing faith, marriage, family life, work, and personal wellness. Life can be overwhelming when you’re trying to do it all, and it’s easy to lose sight of your own needs. My own experiences have deepened my commitment to work with people who feel lost, stuck, or unsure of their next step. My goal is to provide you with practical tools and the emotional support you need to regain clarity, confidence, and a sense of control in your life. My approach combines proven, evidence-based therapies with a deeper exploration of your personal values. Together, we’ll work through your challenges in a way that feels authentic to who you are. I also offer faith-based counseling for those desiring this integration; however, my practice is welcoming to everyone. No matter where you come from, I’m here to walk alongside you as we create a path forward that feels true to you—so you can make meaningful, lasting changes that align with your values. I hold a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Nevada Reno and a Master of Pastoral Studies from Holy Apostles College & Seminary. When I’m not in session, you’ll probably find me curled up with a good book (I’m always working toward my Goodreads goal!), listening to a podcast, gardening, or spending time with my husband, daughter, and our energetic Belgian Malinois pup, all while enjoying the beautiful hills of Virginia.

As a therapist, I strive to provide a space where you feel truly seen, supported, and empowered to grow. I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Attachment-Based Therapy, and Polyvagal Theory. My work is grounded in compassion and backed by evidence-based approaches.

With three years of clinical experience, I specialize in helping adults, seniors, couples, and families navigate challenges related to codependency, relationship issues, substance use, coping skills, and women’s issues. I’m especially passionate about supporting single mothers and the queer community in their healing journeys.

My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental. Together, we’ll work to identify patterns, build motivation for change, and explore how your relationships and life experiences shape your emotional well-being. Whether you're seeking support for a life transition, a deeper understanding of yourself, or healthier relationships, I’m here to walk alongside you.

Hello! My name is Brittany Grooms, and I am a dedicated therapist with a deep passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life. My therapeutic journey has led me to specialize in a client-centered approach, where I prioritize the unique experiences and needs of each person I work with. I am particularly passionate about supporting adults, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families as they embark on their healing journeys. I believe that therapy is a sacred space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood. My focus is holistically oriented, recognizing the profound connection between the mind and body. I understand that our mental and emotional health cannot be isolated from our physical wellbeing, and I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where this integration can flourish. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with clients from all walks of life. I recognize that we all face unique challenges and that the journey toward self-discovery and healing is deeply personal. Whether you are grappling with issues of identity, self-worth, belonging, family dynamics, boundaries, or other life complexities I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we can explore the underlying factors that contribute to your current struggles and develop practical tools tailored to your specific needs. My approach to therapy is rooted in compassion and empathy. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and I honor the courage it takes to reach out. In our sessions, I aim to foster a trusting relationship, encouraging open dialogue and exploration. My ultimate goal is to empower you to gain insight into your feelings and behaviors, leading to a greater understanding of yourself and a more balanced, peaceful life. I am committed to creating an inclusive space where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels valued. My work with LGBTQ+ individuals is informed by an awareness of the unique challenges they may face, and I strive to affirm and support their identities through a lens of respect and understanding. No matter where you are on your journey, I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement as you navigate the complexities of life. Together, we can work toward finding clarity, healing wounds, and cultivating a sense of belonging within yourself and with others. If you are ready to take that first step toward a more fulfilling life, I invite you to reach out. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together, as you gain the tools and insights needed to find peace and balance in your life. Your story is important, and I am honored to be part of it.

Hi! My name is Ariel and I am an intern completing my MSW at the University of Kentucky. I have three years of experience as a certified health and wellness coach, working directly with chronic illness clients to meet their physical, mental and emotional wellness goals through motivational interviewing and solution-focused approaches.

In therapeutic practice, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and psychodynamic theory form the basis of my approach to create a well-rounded foundation to healing.

I have a passion for working with clients who experience chronic pain, chronic illness and anxiety. In my spare time I love playing with my three dogs, reading thriller books and going to the beach!

Hi, my name is Sara. I’m currently finishing my Master of Social Work at the University of Kentucky. I come to clinical social work with a focus on humanistic care, in which we honor the inner experience of each person. I believe that we all have the capacity to grow and learn as we go through daily life, building on our successes. I bring the compassion and skills that I’ve developed in fourteen years of helping clients understand and navigate life transitions.

I enjoy providing support for teens and adults who are learning new ways of being, including living through family additions and losses. Through motivational interviewing, I want to hear what is important to you, so that you are invested in the change you seek. My goal is to help people share their stories so they can better understand themselves and their attachment patterns. In my spare time, I like to spend time with my family and pets, exploring nature, and sitting down with a mug of hot coffee.

Hello! My name is Sarah, and I am in my final year of pursuing a Master of Clinical Social Work at Westfield State University. My approach to social work is deeply rooted in strengths-based and client-centered philosophies. I believe that every individual possesses unique strengths and the capacity for growth. My goal is to help you harness these strengths to overcome challenges and achieve your personal goals. I have experience working with a diverse range of age groups, including adolescents, college-age adults, middle-aged individuals, and older adults. I bring a compassionate, understanding, and tailored approach to each client's journey. I am particularly passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals and appreciate the unique ways we all interact with the world around us. Whether navigating a specific life challenge or seeking to make positive changes, I am here to support you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance. When I’m not working, I'm exploring new coffee shops, snuggling with my dogs, or soaking up some sunshine. I look forward to partnering with you to create a pathway to a brighter, more empowered future.

Christina Perez at Kinder Mind offers expert therapy in Virginia, specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Experience compassionate care and effective mental health support tailored to your needs.

Beverly Benoit, LMSW, Supervisee in Social Work at Kinder Mind, offers expert therapy in Texas and Virginia, specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress management. Experience compassionate and effective mental health support tailored to your unique needs.

Looking for compassionate therapy in Texas? Meet Angel Smith, LMSW, at Kinder Mind. Angel specializes in providing empathetic and effective therapeutic services for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. With a client-centered approach and a dedication to fostering emotional well-being, Angel creates a safe and supportive environment for healing and personal growth. Whether you're facing relationship challenges or seeking to enhance your mental health, Angel is committed to helping you achieve your therapy goals. Schedule your session with Angel Smith at Kinder Mind today and take the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Looking for compassionate and expert therapy in Pennsylvania? Meet Deirdre Myers, MA, NCC, at Kinder Mind. Deirdre specializes in providing empathetic and effective therapeutic services for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. With a client-centered approach and a dedication to emotional well-being, Deirdre creates a supportive and safe environment for healing and personal growth. Whether you're facing relationship challenges or seeking to enhance your mental health, Deirdre is committed to helping you achieve your therapy goals. Schedule your session with Deirdre Myers at Kinder Mind today and take the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.