Jessica Mars, LCSW

Dr. Nicole Martinez received her Master's and Doctorate from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology and completed her pre-doctoral and post-doctoral fellowship at Gateway Foundation in Lake Villa, Illinois. She earned a double major in Psychology and Therapeutic Recreation at the University of St. Francis. Dr. Martinez has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, family, and group treatment. Her therapeutic approach is integrative, combining Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy (CBT) with holistic methods, emphasizing Solution Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Positive Psychology. She believes in the mind-body connection and that exploring various areas of an individual's functioning is essential for optimum physical and emotional health. Dr. Martinez emphasizes a collaborative therapist-client relationship, where both act as partners in designing treatment goals. She values identifying ineffective past modalities to avoid frustration and ensure personalized care. Recognizing that each person is unique, she adapts to the patient's evolving needs, ensuring they feel heard and supported for positive outcomes. Her areas of expertise include health psychology, complex trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, LGBTQIA populations, bereavement, forensics, substance abuse, couples work, MISA, co-occurring disorders, domestic violence, sex offenders, special needs populations, and chronic medical issues and rare diseases. She is skilled in the evaluation and assessment of these populations.

Tikita Ficklin, LPC, has over 10 years of experience practicing in outpatient and inpatient settings, utilizing modalities such as CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences/Human Services and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, both from Mercer University, and is completing a Doctorate in Marriage & Family Therapy from North Central University, expected in 2026.

Tikita values open and honest communication and partners with clients to set clear treatment goals that support their personal growth. She creates a warm, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Tikita begins by thoroughly understanding each client’s history, concerns, and goals during the initial session to foster a trusting relationship. She then develops individualized treatment plans that align with clients’ objectives, guiding them toward their best possible self.

Tamara McKlveen is a licensed mental health counselor and national certified counselor who has worked in the mental health field for the past seven years. Tamara is a compassionate mental health advocate who focuses on client-centered, strength-based techniques to support positive life changes. She has an eclectic style driven by client interest. She received her MA in Mental Health Counseling from South University in West Palm Beach, Florida. She has worked as a counselor, Social Service Coordinator and Social Service Manager for a Florida non-profit agency servicing adolescents and their families, helping to overcome barriers to communication, education and future success. Tamara has focused her work on clients struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorder. She has also worked with teens struggling with eating disorders and issues specific to the LBGTQ population. She has a special interest in families coping with Autism and other special needs. ‍

Robert Pasley, LPC, NCC, is a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. He is licensed in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida (as a telehealth provider). Robert earned his master’s degree in professional counseling from Amridge University and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Faulkner University. His clinical background includes work in community agencies, hospitals, mental health clinics, and correctional facilities.

Robert specializes in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, interpersonal conflict, chronic illness, and issues related to self-esteem and identity. His areas of focus also include anger management, crisis intervention, substance abuse, and life transitions. His approach integrates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care, tailored to each client’s needs.

Robert believes in creating a safe, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment. He welcomes clients from all walks of life and encourages open dialogue without judgment. He is committed to helping individuals discover hope, resilience, and personal growth as they navigate toward healing and empowerment.

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Robin Lawson is a LCSW with 14 years of clinical experience, who has extensive experience with adults ages 18 and older who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and grief/loss. Robin earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina and her Master’s degree from the University of South Florida. Robin has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has specialized experience with those facing chronic or serious medical illnesses. Robin finds joy in connecting with her clients and creating a safe space for them to gain insight on themselves, their strengths and their opportunities for growth.

Robin has been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 14 years, with an emphasis on Depression, Anxiety Disorders and Grief/Loss. Robin primarily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy in her practice as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

Tara Merchant is a person-centered, nonjudgmental, relationship-based LMHC (licensed mental health counselor) who recognizes the intrinsic value of all people and holds positive regard for all her clients. Tara views counseling as a collaborative effort that provides psychoeducation and coping skills for the obstacles with which clients may be struggling, and clients provide insights as experts on themselves. She believes that all thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and have valid underlying factors. Tara seeks to help clients connect the dots, from both past and present, to have a greater understanding of themselves and their environments. She also fosters a safe space for clients to identify and embrace their feelings toward emotional catharsis. Tara received her Bachelor's Degree from Purchase College, State University of NY, and her Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University. She has an eclectic style that utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and psychodynamic modality. Tara aims to uphold cultural humility for ongoing learning and awareness that supports racial and social equity. She is experienced in working with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and child development. Tara is a big proponent of self-care and encourages you to find whatever it is that fills your cup. She, for example, loves to watch TV and sing in her spare time.