Paul Hogate, LCSW

Sunny Bowers is a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) based in Ohio. She holds an undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Kent State University, complemented by a graduate degree in a Master of Arts in Education with a focus in Clinical Counseling from Malone University.‍With a rich professional background spanning over 10 years, Sunny has dedicated her expertise to working with diverse populations, including adults, first responders, and teenagers. Her scope of practice covers all phases of addiction, trauma, and mood disorders with a particular emphasis on addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, adjustment concerns, and relational difficulties.‍Sunny's therapeutic approach places a strong emphasis on the value of the therapeutic relationship. Recognizing the pivotal role of comfort and trust in the therapeutic process, she believes that lasting change is built on authentic exploration. Sunny employs several different therapeutic approaches, tailoring her methods to individual needs. Grounded in the development of insight and awareness, her overarching goal is to support empowerment and personal freedom for her clients.‍Sunny is enthusiastic about the prospect of working collaboratively with individuals seeking positive change and personal growth. If you're looking for a therapist who values authenticity and is dedicated to supporting your journey towards lasting change.

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.

Richard Chase is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor (LPCC-S), Board Certified through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). He holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Counseling and Human Development.

For over 10 years, Richard has provided a safe, welcoming space to help clients address a wide range of mental health challenges. He views therapy as a journey of personal discovery and is passionate about guiding individuals through life’s difficulties. His approach integrates evidence-based methods to tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs and preferences.

In sessions, Richard focuses on fully understanding the concerns a patient is experiencing before collaborating to create a personalized treatment plan. Together, they work toward building confidence, managing difficult emotions, and creating meaningful change that supports a more balanced, hopeful, and fulfilling life.

Meredith LaFave, LCSW, has extensive clinical experience working with adults, couples, and families in private practice and clinic settings. She has specialized training in EMDR, contemplative psychotherapy, Integrative Wellness, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. Meredith values creating a safe, collaborative space where patients feel supported, empowered, and encouraged to explore personal growth.

Meredith blends deep exploration and insight with practical, goal-oriented strategies. She fosters a warm, engaging environment that encourages patients to feel respected, challenged, and equipped to build self-efficacy and overall life satisfaction.

Meredith begins by building rapport and understanding what brings a patient to therapy. She explores historical and contextual information, collaborates on personalized treatment plans, and uses evidence-based approaches to guide patients toward meaningful change, resilience, and personal growth.

Ronda T. Alaniz, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience providing therapy and case management for children, adolescents, and adults. She currently serves as a Remote Therapist with Hazel Health Services, conducting evaluations and offering evidence-based counseling for clients ages 4–25. With over nine years as a School Mental Health Counselor at Edgewood ISD, Ronda developed and implemented individual and group counseling programs for PK–12 students. She also brings valuable leadership experience as a former Program Director and Case Manager in nonprofit and social service settings. Ronda earned her Master of Arts in Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University and her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University.

Ronda creates a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment where clients feel heard and respected. She values open communication and works closely with clients to establish meaningful, achievable goals. Her approach integrates evidence-based methods tailored to each client’s developmental stage and individual needs. Ronda empowers clients through education, self-awareness, and practical coping skills, fostering growth, resilience, and emotional well-being.

Ronda begins with a comprehensive assessment to understand each client’s history, strengths, and challenges. She then collaborates on a personalized treatment plan centered on the client’s goals and progress. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT, Ronda ensures care remains effective and responsive. Her sessions emphasize emotional regulation, skill-building, and positive self-talk to promote lasting well-being.

Jill Sinnott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has practiced in Tennessee for over ten years, in a variety of roles including comprehensive child and family therapy, mobile crisis, and group-based Alcohol and Drug treatment. Most recently, she worked in community mental health for five and a half years. In this role, she focused on individual therapy with clients of all ages. Jill obtained her Bachelor's Degree from Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa, NC, and her Master's of Science in Social Work from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN before settling in Johnson City, TN with her family. Jill's areas of interest include working with the LGBTQIA+ community and incorporating play therapy techniques while working with children. She uses a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy to develop a treatment plan addressing the client's own goals using specific, obtainable steps and recognizing each individual's strengths.