Our Team
Openings For: ADOS Assessment, IQ Evaluation, Adoption Evaluation
Training/Certifications:
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
EMDR, ART, & MESE Trainer
Registered Child Therapist Supervisor (RPT/S)
Licensed School Psychologist
National Certified Counselor
Florida Qualified Supervisor
Adoption Specialist
Trauma Specialist
ADHD Specialist
Autism Specialist
Openings For: Adults, Couples, Families, and First Responders
Language: English or Portuguese
Training/Certifications: Gottman Method Couples Therapy 1 and 2, Eye Movement Desensitization, and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Trauma-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and Managing Emotional States Effectively (MESE).
After spending over 25 years in Christian ministry, my passion to help others holistically (soul, body, and spirit), led me to the mental health field. Married for 23 years, with two daughters and one grandchild, I devote my time to helping others to reach a healthier, happier, and more purposeful life.
“For as a man thinks within himself, so he is.” Proverbs 27:3
Education: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. A.S. in Practical Ministry
Openings For: Pre-Teens, Teens, Adults
Training/Certifications: Eye Movement Desensitization, and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Managing Emotional States Effectively (MESE), Gottman Level 1, Prepare and Enrich Pre-Marriage Counselor, Internationally Credentialed Sandtray Therapist, Play-Informed
Life has a way of throwing us curveballs that spark fear, anxiety, trauma, and depression that can make our thoughts spin out of control. However, God said clearly in Isaiah 41:40, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." The good news is that we don't have to do life alone! I am here to listen to your story and walk with you as you continue to write the next chapter that brings fulfillment and love through Jesus Christ. Twenty years of experience working with children and adolescents have taught me that no single issue can be dealt with in isolation. I believe in a holistic, integrative approach to counseling that revolves around the whole person. Together, we will identify your concerns and approach them with a combination of therapeutic practices and scripture. I'm excited to work with people and families of all ages and backgrounds as we walk through this journey of healing and wellness together.
Special Populations: Autism, ADHD, Trauma, School-Related Issues
Openings For: Children, Couples, Individuals, Families and Groups
Sees clients in Santa Rosa and Escambia.
Training/Certification: Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Theraplay, Managing Emotional States Effectively (MESE), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Play-Informed, Sandtray, Art-Informed, Gottman Marriage Counseling.
Life has given me blessings and hardships; however, the one constant in my life has been God’s love. It is my privilege to spend time with others in order to understand their personal experiences and help them improve their life. After the death of my late husband from cancer, I was honored to spend five years working for hospice. Helping families in their darkest days inspired me to go back to school. I have experience working with a variety of issues, including grief and loss, trauma, terminal diagnosis, anticipatory grief, caregiver grief, anxiety/panic, PTSD, depression, adjustment/life changes, self-esteem issues, empowerment, and work/life balance. I look forward to listening to your story and being a healing presence.
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13:13 13
Openings For: Children, Adolescents, Young Adults
Training/Certifications: Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Art-Informed, Play-Informed
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” -Matthew 11:28
Hey, there! My name is Lauren Thompson. I am a Christian counselor and am proud to call Jesus my Savior. I believe that EVERYONE needs help at some point, and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you navigate life’s journey. I enjoy reading, playing with my golden retrievers (Cheerio and Chessie), and trying to find out why Trix cereal has only ever been for kids. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
Education: Undergraduate: Early Childhood Education from Auburn University (War Eagle!). Master of Science in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University.
Openings for: Adults, Couples
Training/Certifications: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Managing Emotional States Effectively (MESE), Gottman Level 1
I am a Christian counselor who views therapy from a client-centered approach, believing the client is the boss and the therapeutic relationship can be more healing than any given tactic or technique.
For the past 17 years I have served the communities of Northwest Florida as a police officer. In December of 2022, I received my Master’s in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University. In addition to my formal education and training, I bring an enormous number of real-world experiences into each counseling session.
Openings for: Adolescents, Individual Adults, and Children
Training/Certifications: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Managing Emotional States Effectively (MESE), Play Therapy, Sandtray, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI)
God shapes and prepares us to play a unique role in each step of our lives. He gives us purpose. Every moment we experience prepares us for the next part of our journey. Sometimes, that experience is seeking assistance. Whether that assistance requires encouragement and hope during hard times or more in-depth therapy, I am here to help.
“It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure." Psalm 18:32.
Education: Graduate of Troy University 2021:
Master of Science in Counseling and Psychology
Training/Certifications: Play Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (T.B.R.I.), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T.), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (E.M.D.R.). Gottman Level 1 & 2
I am a Christian counselor who views therapy from a client-centered approach, believing the client is the boss and that the therapeutic relationship can be more healing than any given tactic or technique.
For the past 23 years, I have served our community in the capacity of multiple titles and ranks. By working in this capacity, I have seen some of the worst life situations and circumstances. This ignited a passion in me to find a way to help people and find a way to help equip them with the tools they need to move forward. One of my more recent roles has been my favorite, as a counselor, getting to counsel individuals, couples, and families.
Education: Graduate of Troy University 2021: Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling
Training/Certifications: Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Managing Emotional States Effectively (MESE), Gottman Training
Life brings various challenges, all of which impact each person differently. Sometimes these challenges feel too difficult to face alone. This is where as a counselor I will walk alongside you by providing support and encouragement. As a registered mental health counselor, I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions. Faith is an integral part of what I do. I believe that faith can provide a spiritual foundation from which to begin the healing process. I offer space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings about whatever they are facing. With each of my clients, I am committed to helping them succeed, heal, and find peace.
Education: M.S. Counseling Psychology
Openings For: Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples
Training/Certifications: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Managing Emotional States Effectively (MESE), Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Gottman Level 1.
Throughout life, I have learned it’s a truth of the world that a person’s mental and physical well-being can become compromised by people and circumstances beyond their control. When that happens, the person’s quality of life becomes sacrificed. I believe I have been called to share my knowledge, skills, passion for psychology, and passion for well-being to help other people live the most fulfilling life possible in place of struggling with mental distress. No matter what you are faced with, I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk with you on your journey as you find peace and joy once again.
Openings For: Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples
Training/Certifications: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Managing Emotional States Effectively (MESE), Gottman Couples Level 1, Play-Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and Internal Family Systems Informed (IFS).
Dr. Bessel van der Kolk once said, "Trauma is not what happens to us, but what we hold inside us in the absence of an empathetic witness."' I wholeheartedly embrace this wisdom as I extend my hand to walk alongside you on your profound journey towards healing and wellness. Together, we will unveil the most vibrant and resilient version of yourself. Within the sanctuary of our therapeutic space, I am unwaveringly dedicated to nurturing an environment that radiates warmth, fosters collaboration, and offers unequivocal support, free from the shadows of judgment. Here, vulnerability is not a weakness but a courageous strength, and empathy and compassion flow abundantly.
Our journey will be a collaborative one, where we uncover your inherent strengths, equip you with innovative coping strategies, and nurture enduring transformations. I am firmly committed to actively supporting you as you take courageous steps toward your goals, learn to navigate life's challenges with grace, and elevate your overall sense of well-being.
My passion lies in guiding you towards becoming the most authentic and empowered version of yourself.
I deeply believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of successful treatment. My approach integrates a trauma-informed approach.
Together, we will explore these dynamic approaches, empowering you to not only heal from the scars of the past but to rewrite your narrative and embark on a path of enduring growth and profound self-discovery. Your journey is my utmost priority, and I stand unwaveringly by your side, ready to support you every step of the way.
Openings For: Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples
Openings For: Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples
Training/Certifications: Sandtray Therapy
It is an honor to walk alongside individuals on their journey toward healing. My focus in on providing compassionate emotional support and guidance on coping strategies, all within the framework of a trusting relationship with my clients. By integrating faith-based principles, I create a safe space for individuals to navigate challenges, empowering them to find strength in their faith. My holistic approach aims to nurture resilience and personal growth, fostering a transformative counseling experience built on faith, trust, and understanding. I look forward to walking alongside you on your path toward emotional healing.
"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:26-28
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Social Welfare from the University of West Florida. Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Counselor in Training with Troy University Master Program.
Openings For: Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples
Training/Certifications: Sandtray Therapy
I focus on the mind, body, and spirit wellness model and use various treatment modalities as instruments to empower individuals and families to overcome personal and professional difficulties. With many years experience in the military, I have a special affinity for military families; including the service member, spouse, children, and extended family.
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with a minor in Biblical Studies and Theology from Biola University and a minor in Military Science from California State Fullerton. Master of Arts in Human Service Counseling: Marriage and Family Counseling from Liberty University. Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Counselor in Training with Troy University Master Program.