Tara Merchant, LMHC

Barb VanHouten, LCSW, provides a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where clients feel heard and supported. She brings a wealth of personal and professional experiences that have shaped her insight, knowledge, and empathy, enabling her to walk alongside others during their most difficult times. Barb believes that everyone has a story, and that life’s challenges can sometimes become overwhelming, leading to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and despair.

Barb specializes in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, anger management, addiction, bipolar disorder, antisocial behaviors, family relationships, grief and bereavement, life transitions, job and employment issues, medical and physical health concerns, PTSD, somatic symptom disorders, learning disorders, stress, and trauma. Her goal is to create a therapeutic space where clients feel empowered to explore challenges and build resilience.

Barb uses a variety of evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. Her methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Informed Care, Behavioral Modification, Internal Family Systems, Strength-Based approaches, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She collaborates with clients to develop practical, effective solutions for growth and healing.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and Adrian Simmons, LMFT, congratulates you on taking it. Adrian specializes in supporting individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem challenges. She takes a client-centered, collaborative approach, tailoring sessions to your unique needs in a safe and supportive environment.

Adrian prioritizes clear communication, active listening, and a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive approach. She is calm and patient, helping you feel understood while providing guidance. She believes therapy is a partnership, working together to set meaningful goals and adapt them as insights develop.

Adrian uses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and may integrate mindfulness and other strategies based on your needs. Together, you’ll identify challenges, develop practical coping skills, and work toward your goals. The first session focuses on understanding your background, what brings you to therapy, and creating a plan to support ongoing growth.

Heidi is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 15 years of professional experience teens, adults, and seniors with concerns and challenges related to divorce, family conflict, parenting challenges, dysfunctional relationships, low self-esteem, sexuality, and addiction. Heidi earned her Master's degree in Human Services, Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy from Capella University.

Heidi uses theories that include Relational, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Humanistic / Rogerian, Psychoanalytic / Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Attachment-Based, Adlerian, Positive Psychology, Person-Centered, Christian Counseling, Family Systems, CBT / Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gottman Trained, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative, Emotionally Focused, DBT / Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Our first session will be about getting to know each other and developing a sense of understanding and connection. We will establish rapport and develop a picture of your personal and family history. Heidi strives to represent authentic self, work affectively, giving assignments, providing tools and teach techniques.

Heidi enjoys working with married couples and individuals experiencing pressing issues who are wanting to quickly move towards their goals and are driven towards change. Her approach to therapy is collaborative and flexible; Heidi strives to encourage her clients to improve their relationships and personal experiences by being their authentic selves. She can help you navigate life transitions, heal from traumatic experiences, and improve communication skills. Heidi seeks to provide a warm, trusting, nonjudgmental environment where you'll know that you are deeply listened to, and can safely and freely discuss your challenges, concerns, and vulnerabilities. Heidi is here to offer you her honest and supportive feedback.

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Kierra is a licensed mental health therapist and received her BS in Criminal Justice Leadership from Urbana University and M.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. Kierra has 20 years of experience working in the field of social services, and 7 years of experience as a licensed clinician.

Kierra has maintained positions in a wide array of environments including corrections, juvenile detention, CPS, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and in-home/community-based settings. Kierra has experience servicing adolescents, adults, and the elderly populations.

Kierra understands how intimidating therapy can be and commends you for taking the first step towards enhancing your life. Kierra asks that you are patient with yourself as you are embarking down a new path and reward yourself with gratitude as you reach new milestones in your life.

Kierra utilizes a holistic approach and provides talk therapy through the use of multiple treatment modalities including but not limited to, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Supportive therapy, and DBT techniques. Kierra is a Christian and may apply Christianity based principles to support your preferences and unique circumstances.

Your success in therapy is contingent upon your progress and commitment to attend and participate in sessions, as well as being open minded and willing to facilitate change from your past behaviors. In working together, Kierra will initiate the best treatment regimen designed for you and provide ongoing support for all your treatment needs.

Thank you for investing in your happiness, and Congratulations on taking the first steps to create a better you!!

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Rachel Jones, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience across inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, private practice, and telehealth settings. Her work has included serving as a substance abuse counselor in a county juvenile jail and DWI diversion program, conducting assessments and providing testimony for guardianship hearings, and offering therapeutic support within academic settings from elementary through college levels. She has also developed safety protocols, written IEPs, and taught college courses on workforce and career skills. Rachel earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Missouri Western State University and her Master of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Missouri. She has been a licensed professional counselor since 2005.

Rachel is a client-centered therapist who helps guide individuals in exploring their experiences and discovering their own strengths and resources. She fosters a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can develop practical skills to navigate life challenges, strengthen relationships, and promote personal growth.

During the first session, Rachel focuses on listening and understanding each client’s story. Through gentle guidance, she helps clarify what brings them to therapy and collaborates to identify meaningful goals. Together, they create a personalized treatment plan that serves as a roadmap for ongoing sessions, building skills and insights that support lasting change.

Komal Kishore, LCSW, has worked in hospice and hospital settings for over two years, bringing compassionate care to diverse populations. She has experience supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, and individuals experiencing houselessness. Komal earned her MSW from the University of Denver and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Social Work degree from the University of New England.

Komal uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, tailoring each to the unique needs of her patients. She prioritizes finding the right fit for every individual and values open, honest communication. Her goal is to foster a warm, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable and understood, building a strong therapeutic relationship that promotes healing and growth.

Komal begins by gaining a thorough understanding of each patient’s history, life experiences, and the factors that have shaped them. She collaborates with clients to set meaningful goals and revisits these goals every three to four months to assess progress and adjust as needed. Treatment is individualized, with therapy plans developed to align closely with each patient’s objectives and overall well-being.