Meet our therapists

Rutanya Simon, LCSW, earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma and has over eleven years of experience supporting children, families, and couples. She has worked with the courts, including mental health and substance abuse programs, and with families involved in child protective and adoption services. Rutanya integrates Gottman techniques to strengthen communication between couples and applies family systems theory to help families identify and improve maladaptive patterns and behaviors.

Rutanya is a solution-focused therapist who has worked with diverse populations throughout her career. She provides insight from a non-biased and compassionate perspective, helping clients create practical solutions for life transitions and personal healing. Her approach encourages introspection and self-compassion, empowering clients to focus on what is within their control while fostering growth and resilience.

In the initial session, Rutanya works to build rapport and trust while gaining a clear understanding of each client’s needs. She collaborates with clients to identify small, achievable steps toward their goals and uses these to guide the development of individualized treatment plans that promote meaningful progress and lasting change.

Aramis Sinclair, LCSW, has a background in crisis management, anxiety, depression, life stressors, trauma-informed care, outpatient care, and both short- and long-term treatment. They earned a BSW from Brandman University (now UMass Global) and an MSW from the University of Kentucky. Their experience across settings allows them to offer compassionate, informed, and adaptable care.

Clients can expect a warm and inviting environment. Aramis provides structured yet flexible treatment, supporting clients in achieving their goals while addressing additional concerns as they arise. They value honesty, openness, and willingness, fostering a space where clients feel comfortable exploring sensitive topics.

Aramis begins by building rapport and understanding each client’s reasons for seeking treatment and their goals. They create individualized treatment plans tailored to each client’s needs, which can be adjusted over time to best support progress and well-being.

Dr. Tangeneare Singh earned a BS, Summa Cum Laude, from Tuskegee University and an MD from University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. Commissioned in the United States Army, she completed psychiatry residency and child and adolescent fellowship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. She later led Behavioral Health at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital and served 15 years as Department Chief at Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center, expanding key programs and mentoring staff and trainees. She retired as a CAPTAIN (O6) in 2026 with over 20 years of practice.

Dr. Singh provides a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients and families can openly share concerns. She partners with them to select evidence-based treatments that best address their symptoms and goals.

She begins with a thorough discussion of strengths, stressors, and biological and social factors to determine safety and level of care. Together, they develop a plan that may include medication, therapy, or referrals, with testing as indicated. Follow-ups include symptom review, plan adjustments, and attention to sleep, exercise, nutrition, hydration, and basic needs.

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.

Rebecca Siwanowicz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who began her career in 2013, maintaining various positions in both inpatient and outpatient settings while treating substance use and mental health disorders. Rebecca graduated with her BSW from Florida Atlantic University in 2013 and graduated with her MSW in 2016. Rebecca is trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy and is a Master's Level Certified Addiction Professional in the state of Florida.‍Rebecca's areas of expertise are trauma, anxiety and depressive disorders, issues related to codependency and low self-esteem, life transitions, self-care and emotion regulation. Rebecca takes an individualistic approach when treating clients, greatly valuing and promoting individuality and autonomy. Rebecca practices through the lens of Family Systems Theory and Attachment Theory, utilizing components of Existentialism, Strength Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, 12 Step Principles, and Client Centered Therapy. Rebecca takes a psychosocial approach toward treatment, providing her clients with unconditional positive regard, psychoeducation, and practical coping skills to support them in building a life of their choosing.

Abigail Skinner, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with over five years of psychotherapy, behavioral health integration, and program leadership experience in medical and community-based settings. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from Touro College and completed Seminar in Field Instruction (SIFI) at Columbia University. Abigail has specialized training in LGBTQ+ mental healthcare through Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, post-graduate training in relational psychoanalysis from The Stephen Mitchell Institute of Relational Studies, and advanced certification as a Behavioral Health Integration Specialist.

Abigail’s style is thoughtful and relational, emphasizing curiosity, trust, and authenticity. She believes each person’s story matters and works collaboratively to understand patterns, relationships, and strengths that can foster lasting change. Patients can expect a warm, supportive environment that balances compassion with structure—helping individuals explore challenges, identify meaningful goals, build self-awareness, and develop skills that support long-term emotional well-being.

Abigail begins treatment by building a strong, collaborative therapeutic relationship grounded in respect and trust. During initial sessions, she takes time to understand each patient’s history, concerns, and goals, then develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique values and needs. She integrates evidence-based practices with a relational, trauma-informed approach, using behavioral health strategies, psychoeducation, and supportive interventions. Abigail emphasizes open communication, regular check-ins, and ongoing review of progress to ensure care remains adaptive, collaborative, and effective.

Eva Sleczka LCSW has a wealth of experience and a passion for integrated patient care. Eva Sleczka, LCSW brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion that is sure to benefit psychotherapy patients. Eva Sleczka, LCSW is a broadly accomplished social worker with years of experience in hospital health-based and community-based human services environments. Eva Sleczka LCSW has an impressive background in the behavioral health field, holding an MSW, LCSW from New York University and specializing in behavioral health psychotherapy with adults, children and families. They have spent 30 years working in various healthcare settings, including health and hospital systems, emergency room and screening center for psychiatric emergency services, school-based and community-based outpatient treatment settings, where they have honed their skills and gained valuable experience in patient care. Their commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in behavioral health science ensures that our patients receive the highest quality of psychotherapy care. One of the key strengths Eva Sleczka, LCSW, brings to our team is their expertise in integrative care and trauma-informed psychotherapy, skilled with adults and families with mental health needs. They have a proven track record of clinical supervision of social work students in the field, experience as a Clinical Director of a community mental health setting, psychotherapist for adults, children, and families with mental health needs, making them a valuable resource for both our patients and our staff. Whether it's managing complex cases, providing preventive care, or offering specialized treatments, supervision of social work students Eva Sleczka, LCSW is dedicated to delivering comprehensive and personalized care to each patient. At the core of Eva Sleczka, LCSW's practice is a patient-centered approach that prioritizes the individual needs and preferences of each patient. They believe in fostering strong clinician-patient relationships built on trust, empathy, and open communication. By involving patients in their own care decisions and providing education about their health, Eva Sleczka, LCSW, empowers patients to take an active role in their well-being. Eva Sleczka, LCSW utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), focusing mainly on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and incorporating mindfulness into a wellness-based approach.

James "Derek" Slover, LPC-S (but just call him Derek), has been practicing counseling since 2006. He has worked in a wide range of settings, including community clinics, hospitals, and telehealth- and now helps teens, parents, and adults navigate the challenges of anxiety, mood disorders, behavior issues, and more.

Derek's approach is collaborative, practical, and rooted in evidence-based care. He brings humor, clarity, and a no-nonsense style to counseling, believing that treatment should make sense and feel useful. You won't get psychobabble or a 47-slide PowerPoint presentation- just honest conversations, thoughtful listening, and tools that work. His clinical toolbox includes CBT, Parent Management Training, Exposure & Response Prevention, and other proven approaches tailored to each person's needs.

Counseling with Derek starts with a thorough assessment to understand what’s been getting in your way. From there, you’ll work together to set goals that reflect your values and priorities. Counseling typically moves through three phases: 1) building a strong therapeutic relationship, 2) doing the deep work of change, and 3) maintaining progress and preparing for graduation- because counseling should be a launchpad, not a lifelong subscription.

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Grace is a LCSW, and LISW-CP licensed in Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences with a specialization in Nutrition from Solusi University in Zimbabwe and a Master of Social Work in Clinical Practice from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI. Grace has 20 years of experience providing mental health and psychotherapy services to diverse populations in various settings, including telehealth, outpatient care, residential programs for youth and adults, Assertive Community Treatment, foster care, inpatient units, intensive in-home services, and private practice. Her approach is individualized, solution-focused, holistic, and goal-oriented, emphasizing clients' strengths and fostering a positive, affirming perspective. Grace specializes in treating individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, mood instability, anger, unresolved emotional challenges, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. She works with adults, couples, and families. Grace's therapeutic techniques include counseling for emotional and personal growth, fostering purpose and meaning, and empowering self-esteem. Grace draws on evidence-based practices tailored to each client's needs, including Trauma-Informed Care, CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Collaborative Problem Solving, Positive Behavior Support, and Family Systems approaches.

Ernest Smith, LPC, specializes in supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults as they navigate grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, he creates a safe, nonjudgmental space for individuals to explore their experiences and build the skills necessary for healing, growth, and resilience.

Ernest draws from a range of evidence-based modalities—including solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). He tailors each session to meet the unique needs of his clients, whether helping adolescents manage emotional regulation and identity development or supporting older adults in coping with grief and life changes.

Ernest provides trauma-informed care and recovery-focused strategies that foster emotional safety, self-awareness, and long-term well-being. His goal is to walk alongside each person with empathy, understanding, and practical tools that promote lasting change and inner strength.

Regina Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across outpatient, group, individual, and family therapy settings. Regina is passionate about supporting clients of all ages in improving their mental health and building the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges.

Regina values creating a supportive and welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable sharing openly and honestly. She understands that therapy is most effective when clients feel safe, respected, and empowered to explore their thoughts and experiences. Her approach is compassionate and collaborative, with a focus on ensuring that each session meets the client’s needs and goals.

Regina begins sessions by gaining an understanding of each client’s history and current concerns. Together, she and her clients establish weekly goals and create individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific struggles. Her process emphasizes collaboration, ongoing support, and practical strategies that can be applied both inside and outside of therapy to foster meaningful growth and resilience.

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Before graduating from the NYU Silver School of Social Work, Dana worked in international human rights and educational settings. She has over 15 years of experience as a clinical social worker and previously worked with formerly homeless adults in supportive housing as a social worker, supervisor, and assistant program director.

Dana views therapy as a meaningful act of self-investment - an opportunity to approach oneself with curiosity, courage, and compassion. She strives to create a warm, validating, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed space where clients feel seen and supported.

Her approach is collaborative, relational, and evidence-based, integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. Dana helps clients cultivate emotional flexibility, resilience, and self-awareness while clarifying their values and taking meaningful action in alignment with what matters most to them.

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Andrea Stang-McKeough is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with experience supporting adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, academic and professional stress, and relational challenges. She has worked in outpatient private practice settings, providing individual therapy and serving in leadership roles. In addition to clinical work, she presents and educates on mental health topics within community and professional spaces.

Andrea uses a goal-oriented approach focused on growth, clarity, and practical change rather than labeling strengths and weaknesses. She values direct, open communication and collaborative treatment planning. She creates a warm, structured space where clients feel supported and gently challenged. Insight is important, but she emphasizes action and accountability. She integrates mindfulness and nervous system awareness and views therapy as a trusted partnership.

Andrea begins with a comprehensive intake to understand history, stressors, patterns, and goals. Together, she and the client define realistic, meaningful objectives. Sessions are structured and include reflection, skill-building, and practical strategies. She integrates mindfulness-based tools, cognitive and behavioral strategies, and relational processing as needed. Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure treatment remains collaborative and tailored.

Meet Alex Starmer, LMHC, your friendly mental health counselor here at Talkiatry. She's not just a counselor; she's your partner on your mental health journey. Alex earned her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University in 2020 and has been in the field since January 2021, working closely with clients facing mental health and substance use challenges. Alex believes in the power of the mind-body connection, and she loves to share polyvagal exercises and mindfulness techniques to help you better understand yourself. She's always learning and growing, with ongoing training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Her go-to tools for therapy are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With her, you can expect a compassionate and comprehensive approach to your mental well-being. You're in good hands with Alex.‍

Richard "Rick" States is a Licensed Professional Counselor, with broad and varied professional work experience in behavioral health (inpatient and outpatient, individuals and families, children and adults, direct service and program administration). Rick earned his B.A. in Psychology at Gannon University and his M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.

He's earned a Post-Master's Certificate in General Psychology from Northcentral University and has completed many doctorate credits in Psychology. Since 1999, Rick has taught university courses in Psychology, Sociology, and Human Services, most recently at Gannon University and Penn State University.

Rick's greatest area of clinical interest and skill centers around self-regulation or "how we manage" our thoughts, feelings, emotions, behaviors, etc. Rick appreciates the challenges related to anxiety, stress, depression, substance use, and trauma, and he employs various tools to help folks manage (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, humanism, mindfulness/somatic psychology, etc.).

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Brittany Stef is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). With extensive experience in education and various clinical settings, she has supported individuals and families of all ages in overcoming diverse mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self-esteem issues,   and significant life changes.

Brittany is passionate about therapy and employs empowerment-driven, holistic approaches. Her techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.

Dr. TreSina E. Steger (Dr. Tre) is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) who has practiced as a mental health therapist for several years. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Mount Olive College, in NC, a Master of Science in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University, in MN, and a Doctorate in Education, in Higher Educational Leadership from Liberty University in VA. She has worked in business, outpatient mental health, non-profits, in private practice, and with the military. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Provider (BC-TMH), Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (CDBT), and Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C-TFCBT). Dr. Tre uses person-centered, solution-focused, DBT, CPT, CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, psychodynamic, and other approaches to assist clients. She strides in aiding clients work on attachment issues, relationship problems, ADHD, self-esteem, self-worth, gender identity, boundary issues, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Dr. Tre has worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds, populations, and identities and takes pride in being a LGBTQIA+ affirming, a gender-affirming, BIOPC therapist who has worked with clients who have experienced various types of traumas. Clients will find she has a conversational tone, direct, non-judgmental approach when addressing their therapeutic goals and provides a safe space for them to do their work.

Valerie Stern, LCSW, has extensive experience in hospital outpatient settings, nonprofit agencies, and private practice. She is trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, MI, and IP, and is certified in equine-assisted psychotherapy, having led groups for veterans, at-risk youth, and individuals in recovery. Valerie holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a master’s degree in clinical social work. She began her career working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals and co-founded the Hearing Loss Association of Los Angeles, serving as its first president. Fluent in English, French, and American Sign Language, she brings a deep cross-cultural understanding from her time living in Europe and Asia.

Valerie approaches therapy with curiosity, kindness, and a commitment to creating a supportive, open environment. She helps clients challenge misconceptions and develop healthier thought patterns while fostering honesty, respect, and open communication. When appropriate, she uses humor to build connection and lighten moments in the therapeutic process.

In the first session, Valerie takes time to fully understand each client’s history and experiences to determine the best level of care. She collaborates with clients to create realistic, achievable treatment plans focused on positive behavioral and emotional change. She may incorporate homework, videos, and handouts for later reference, and uses appropriate self-disclosure to strengthen rapport and trust.

Katherine Strasburger, LCSW, grew up in Colorado and moved to Waco in 2013 to attend Baylor University, where she later earned her MSW. She has extensive experience supporting children and adolescents ages 4–19, as well as their caregivers, across juvenile detention, PK–12 schools, and homeless outreach. She is completing full EMDR training and holds ADHD certification. Kat enjoys integrating nutrition-focused psychoeducation and creative expression through play and art-based strategies. She is also training her dog, Odin, for Therapy Dog certification.

Kat recognizes the stigma surrounding mental health and views seeking therapy as an act of resilience. She creates a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental space where clients can be themselves. She values autonomy, supports increased self-awareness, and genuinely celebrates each client’s progress and healing.

Kat begins by building rapport and gaining a thorough understanding of each client’s history, concerns, and goals. She collaborates with clients to create individualized treatment plans that reflect their needs and priorities. She feels honored to walk alongside clients as they grow, heal, and build skills for lasting well-being.

Seth Sultan, LCSW, earned his Master of Social Work degree from California State University, Northridge. He is a practitioner of Somatic Experiencing; a psychobiological treatment focused on resolving trauma and stress. Seth also has specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for the treatment of OCD. He integrates these modalities with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Attachment Theory to provide a holistic and individualized therapeutic experience.

Seth believes therapy is a space where individuals should feel heard, seen, and understood. He offers a supportive and nonjudgmental environment that encourages self-discovery and personal growth. His goal is to help clients move toward their best selves while building stronger, healthier relationships.

Seth utilizes a collaborative and compassionate approach, empowering clients to challenge old patterns and create meaningful change. He strives to establish a sense of safety within the therapeutic relationship, exploring emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual dimensions to help each person live a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Diana Sun, LMHC, is a licensed mental health counselor with over five years of counseling experience in outpatient settings. She earned her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nyack College Alliance Graduate School of Counseling in 2020. Diana has experience working with Asian Americans, Christians, LGBTQ+ individuals, and young adults ages 18 and older. Her clinical interests include inter-generational trauma, women’s issues, stress, anxiety, and depression.

Diana believes communication is essential when setting goals and boundaries within the counseling relationship. She uses fun ice-breaker questions to help patients feel comfortable and to build a strong therapeutic connection. Diana strives to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, seen, and understood, and she welcomes feedback as an important part of the healing process.

Diana begins by understanding each client’s presenting concerns, personal history, and goals during the initial session. She then collaborates with patients to develop a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs. Her work is grounded in core counseling values such as active listening, self-awareness, and unconditional positive regard to support growth and change.

Snathalia Supreme, LMHC-D, has over four years of experience in the mental health field. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and has extensive experience practicing in outpatient settings. She is passionate about supporting adults in navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, and life transitions.

Snathalia values open communication and works collaboratively with patients to set clear treatment goals that foster meaningful change. She creates a warm, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, she helps clients build coping skills and gain insight while emphasizing the potential for healing and personal growth.

In the first session, Snathalia thoroughly explores each client’s history, concerns, and goals. She gathers information about prior therapy experiences to understand what has or hasn’t been helpful. She partners with clients throughout their journey, encouraging courage, resilience, and ongoing growth as they work toward their personal goals.

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Gretchen attended James Madison University for her undergraduate studies and graduate school at Virginia Commonwealth University and Boston University. She has practiced for three years in various settings, including residential facilities for children, acute care facilities, and private practice, where she successfully supported clients with neurodiversity in improving executive function, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships. Recognizing the complexities of neurodiversity beyond traditional clinical frameworks, Gretchen collaborates with medical professionals, educators, and families to create inclusive environments that foster success for individuals with neurodivergent traits.

Clients can expect to gain a deeper understanding of their thought patterns and uncover the underlying meanings behind their reactions. Through a collaborative and reflective process, they’ll develop greater self-awareness, challenge limiting beliefs, and gain clarity in their personal growth journey. This approach empowers clients to make more informed, intentional choices in their lives.

Gretchen takes a direct yet supportive approach, evident from the very first session. She integrates psychoeducation, somatic techniques to enhance body awareness, and strategic reframing to help clients uncover core beliefs that may be contributing to their challenges.

Chaniece Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist in Michigan (LCSW) and South Carolina (LISW-CP). Chaniece studied at the University of Michigan to obtain her B.A. in Gender and Health and her Master's degree in Social Work from Wayne State University. Chaniece has experience working with adolescents and adults in various practice settings including nonprofit organizations, community mental health, and outpatient agencies.

Chaniece specializes in working with individuals challenged with Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress, Relationship challenges, Life transitions, and Coping Skills.

As a therapist, Chaniece provides a personalized and evidence-based approach. She has experience utilizing Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Chaniece's approach is empowering, compassionate, collaborative, and solution focused. She will meet you where you are at and work with you at your pace.

Chaniece aims to help individuals gain a new perspective and lead them toward a future that fills them with hope and excitement!

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Dr. Cheryl Thomas' experience spans nearly two decades working with many who struggle to find their way through different life challenges. She will collaborate with you to identify and attain goals. Getting to know you is the first step and that is achieved through a variety of approaches that are grounded in family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and understanding any types of trauma that may have been experienced. Many have had trauma and what she has learned is that talking about the details of the trauma is not always helpful. It may be a component of healing, but there may be other ways to make progress. Dr. Thomas utilizes a combination of approaches to be helpful in working with clients. Some may include person-centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. She has experience in different treatment settings in Ohio and enjoys working with those who have mental health and substance use disorders. Dr. Thomas works with ages 18 and up that include mental health issues like depression, anxiety, grief, stress management, trauma, communication, and relationship issues. She enjoys seeing a client shift perspectives and report feeling more at peace as they reach their goals. Dr. Thomas completed her doctorate degree in Counselor Education & Supervision in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy in 2012.