Counselors
Choosing a counselor is like choosing an advisor. You want to choose someone who has expertise in the areas you are concerned about, and more expertise than you have. You want to find someone you can get along with, trust, and feel comfortable talking to.
Counselors are people, too. They aren’t magicians, and they aren’t God. They can’t read your mind or “fix” your life.
What they can do is listen to you, while showing concern, compassion, and confidentiality. A counselor can guide you in the right directions and encourage you in your pursuit of God and healing for your emotional and psychological pain. A counselor can walk you through troubles in a relationship and challenge you to grow beyond where you are now.
When choosing a counselor, choose someone you feel can relate to you. When you first talk on the telephone, ask some initial questions about their personal values and beliefs. Similar values and beliefs are important in a counseling relationship.
Be honest with your counselor and the receptionist about what you are looking for in a counselor. Unlike a doctor, who sees you and prescribes medication in 10-15 minutes, you will be spending 45-50 minutes each session with your counselor. You want to be able to form an attachment to this person, so if the first person you see doesn’t seem right, ask to see someone else! It’s okay to keep trying.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: SHANTE FLUKER, MS, BCCC
Shante Fluker serves as Executive Director of Eagles Landing Christian Counseling Center (ELCCC), leading in obedience to God and under the direction of the Holy Spirit. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Capella University, is a Board-Certified Christian and Pastoral Counselor, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Pastoral Counseling at Liberty University to further deepen her theological and clinical foundation for Kingdom service.
After a season of prayer, fasting, and spiritual discernment, God sovereignly shifted the mantle of leadership from Dr. Denice Colson to Shante. This was not merely an administrative transition, but a divine alignment of calling and assignment. With humility and reverence, Shante accepted the responsibility to steward the vision God established for ELCCC, ensuring that faith, excellence, and integrity remain at the forefront of the ministry.
Shante believes ELCCC is a healing ministry called to serve the brokenhearted and those navigating trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. She integrates sound clinical practice with biblical truth, recognizing that sustainable healing occurs when emotional restoration and spiritual renewal intersect.
Her leadership is anchored in prayer, discernment, and unwavering dependence upon the Holy Spirit. She remains committed to advancing ELCCC as a place where God’s presence guides both practice and purpose.
CLINICAL DIRECTOR: R. DENICE COLSON, PhD, LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS
Dr. R. Denice Colson now serves as Clinical Director of Eagles Landing Christian Counseling Center (ELCCC), bringing over four decades of experience in counseling, trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and clinical supervision. A Licensed Professional Counselor and Master Addiction Counselor, Dr. Colson has faithfully contributed to the counseling field since 1982.
As Clinical Director, Dr. Colson provides clinical oversight, supervision, and training to ensure the highest standards of ethical care, trauma-informed practice, and professional excellence within the organization. Her leadership continues to shape the clinical integrity and therapeutic depth of ELCCC’s services.
Dr. Colson is the author of Stop Treating Symptoms and Start Resolving Trauma! Inside-Out Healing for Survivors of ALL Types and Break EVERY Stinking Chain! Healing for Hidden Wounds. She is a Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor through the LPCA of Georgia and is widely recognized for her expertise in trauma resolution and faith-integrated counseling.
In addition to her leadership role, Dr. Colson maintains a limited client caseload and continues to provide speaking engagements, seminars, supervision, and training through her education and consultation platform, TraumaEducation.com.
She is a State-Approved DUI Evaluator and Treatment Provider, a Prime Solutions provider, and a Certified BrainTek Practitioner. Dr. Colson remains deeply committed to equipping clinicians and empowering individuals toward lasting healing and transformation.
MELISSA SMITH, MA, BCCC
Melissa is known for her warm, empathic & empowering style as she creates a safe, affirming space for her clients and collaborates with them throughout the counseling journey. She specializes in resolving soul wounds & trauma symptoms at the root level as a 12STR certified facilitator (traumaeducation.com) in addition to assisting those struggling with codependency & relationship concerns; life changes, stress & transitions; grief & loss; communication & conflict resolution; parenting concerns; depression & anxiety from a biblical counseling perspective; burn out & soul care; discernment as it relates to life’s crossroads; and spiritual issues & questions or those desiring spiritual direction & formation. She also provides pre-marital counseling & marriage enrichment using Prepare-Enrich (prepare-enrich.com) assessments & interventions as a trained facilitator. She is able to see clients from all 50 states & can even see international clients over the computer.
"Not only do I have the education, training & experience to assist you as a Christian counselor with over a decade providing Christian counseling services, but just as importantly, the heart to journey with you. I know what it’s like to not just be in an emotional and spiritual wilderness, but to have come out on the other side with my faith stronger & more vibrant than before. You want a Christian counselor whose professional life flows out of who she is as a person- not just a dispenser of techniques. I’ve helped countless counselees experience healing, hope, breakthrough, freedom, growth, greater integration & wholeness because I honor the ministry of the Holy Spirit in counseling as your true Helper & Healer!"
Additionally, as a former 8-year police veteran who found her passion for counseling while involved in police work- she is uniquely equipped to counsel those in law enforcement. Given her background in ministry, she also has a heart for those in ministry who need a safe, confidential space to unpack & process although she loves seeing adults of all ages & backgrounds. Melissa accepts self-pay only (cash, check or credit card) as she is not on any insurance panels.
Melissa is a Board Certified Christian Counselor through the Board of Christian Professional & Pastoral Counselors & the former Ministry Director here at ELCCC. She has a MA in Human Services Counseling with an emphasis in Addiction & Recovery & a BS in Psychology with a minor in Christian Counseling. She transferred here in 2020 from an out-of-state ministry where she was providing counseling since 2014.
TERRY HASH, MS, LPC
Mr. Hash is the Pastoral Care Minister at Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church, and began serving in the counseling field in 1993. He specializes in marital, pre-marital, and trauma related concerns. He is on many insurance panels, including United Health Care, Anthem/BC/BS, Aetna, Cigna, and others.
JENNIFER TEAGUE, MA, LPC, CCTP
Mrs. Teague, a licensed counselor who has an MA in Psychology and a Master’s in Christian Counseling is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors. Mrs. Teague has 20+ years experience working with clients of all ages from various backgrounds. She has a wealth of knowledge and insight regarding counseling abused and neglected adolescent girls. Mrs. Teague has office hours in Covington and McDonough. She is on many insurance panels, including BC/BS, Aetna, Cigna, and others.
TOMMY SNOW, PhD, LPC, FVIP, CAMS, MRT
Dr. Snow holds PhDs in Clinical Christian Psychology and Christian Domestic Violence Intervention Therapy. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in Conflict Resolution, Certified Anger Management Specialist, a certified Moral Reconation Therapy facilitator, and a Georgia Certified Domestic Violence Facilitator. He also specializes in and has a heart for working with pastors. In addition, he counsels couples, adults who have experienced trauma (including male victims of domestic violence), young adults, and older teens. He is on multiple insurance panels including Anthem/BC/BS, United Health Care, Aetna, Cigna, and others.
AMANDA WALDEN, MA, LPC, NCC
Amanda Walden is a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s degree in Community Counseling. She has over fifteen years of experience in the counseling field with a background of working with clients of all ages. Ms. Walden is experienced in addressing an array of issues, including unresolved trauma, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. She has experience working in trauma therapy using the Strategic Trauma and Abuse Recovery System (STARS) model. Ms. Walden has office hours in Covington and McDonough. She is on many insurance panels, including Anthem BC/BS, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Tri-care, and others.
WENDY HOWARD, NURSE PRACTICIONER
Wendy Howard Coots is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 25 years of experience as a Certified Adult Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Emory University in 1996 and practiced over a decade in internal medicine as a Certified Adult Nurse Practitioner before moving into healthcare information technology.
For nearly 20 years, Wendy has worked in healthcare information technology supporting a variety of clinical care settings. Over the past seven years, her work has included a focused emphasis on behavioral health and integrated care systems. This experience provided her with a broader systems-level perspective on access to care and deepened her understanding of the growing need for integrated mental health services.
In 2023, responding to both a professional and spiritual calling, Wendy returned to school to pursue post-graduate board certification in psychiatric mental health. She completed her PMHNP Certificate at Georgia College & State University in 2025 and is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Wendy’s approach emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and whole-person wellness—attending to the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of health. She collaborates closely with the counselors at Eagle’s Landing Christian Counseling Center to provide thoughtful, evidence-based medication.
STACI STEPHENS, LPC, RPT
Staci Stephens received her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University. She is a licensed professional counselor and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) specializing in work with children and their families. She has provided support to children and families experiencing a host of needs, including concerns related to anxiety, trauma, adjustment, and family-systems. Additionally, she has worked as a school-based counselor providing insight to school administrative staff and teachers alike with regards to the mental health needs and well-being of their students. Her practice involves inclusion of the family unit while servicing the needs of individuals. She is on many insurance panels, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem BC/BS, Cigna, Peachstate/Cenpatico, United Healthcare and, others.
PRISCILLA CHENG, PhD, LPC
Dr. Priscilla Cheng holds a Master’s in Professional counseling and a Ph. D in "Human Behavior" with research interests in breast cancer, social support, and post-recovery. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relational issues, spiritual concerns, trauma, addictions, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction/disturbances and much more. Her experience with being an educator and working in both ecclesiastical and secular settings also affords her the privilege of working with persons from diverse backgrounds. She is passionate about seeing people healed and understanding their identity in Christ. She is on many insurance panels, including Aetna, Cigna, United Health Care, BC/BS, Beacon Health Options, Peachstate, Amerigroup, and others.
LAFREYA PONDER, MS
LaFreya Ponder is a Christian counselor committed to serving teenagers (ages 13 and older), couples, and families through evidence-based counseling grounded in biblical principles. IShe hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor’s degree in Middle Grades Mathematics and Social Studies from Mercer University.
With over 20 years of experience in education, including 16 years supporting students with disabilities and four years as a Mental Health and Wellness Facilitator in a high school setting, she brings a strong foundation of clinical insight, compassion, and practical support to each client. LaFreya primarily serves clients through secure telehealth sessions, providing flexible, convenient access to care.
She provides counseling services for concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, grief, self-worth, suicidal ideation, parenting challenges, autism spectrum disorders, including Asperger’s, conflict resolution, and bipolar disorder.
Her therapeutic approach is warm, solution-focused, and centered on Christian values. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships while maintaining the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality, and respect for every client.
“As long as you don’t give up, God will never give up on you.”
Begin your journey toward healing and growth today. We look forward to supporting you with professionalism, care, and faith.
AMY KEPHART, MS
Amy holds a Master of Science Degree in Counseling and specializes in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling. Amy also holds a certification in Biblical Counseling from the Association of Biblical Counselors. Driven by a dedication to trauma recovery, Amy has fulfilled an internship with the Shepherd Center of Atlanta that focused on neuromuscular conditions, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and pain. Another internship was centered on supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Down’s Syndrome. She is a member of the Association of Biblical Counselors, the Christian Counseling and Education Foundation, and the Christian Trauma Healing Network. Amy is currently working toward licensure in the state of Georgia and works under the direct supervision of CHRISTYN WALKER, MA, LPC, CPCS, CCTP. Amy offers support to adults, young adults, and teens seeking assistance in mental health and rehabilitation counseling. She operates on a sliding scale and is available by appointment.
SHANNON GALLOWAY, MSW
Shannon is a recent graduate of Walden University. She has a MA in Psychology and Human Behavior and a Master of Advanced Clinical Social Work. She is experienced in working with individuals, families, adolescents and couples. She assists clients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, conflict resolution and grief/loss. She works on a sliding scale and available days and some evenings. She is under the supervision of Denice Colson, Ph.D, LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS, DAAETS.
MIKALA A. LEGAKO, PsyD, Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Mikala A. Legako is a licensed psychologist in Georgia. She is a counselor and she performs complete psychological evaluations, which include various forms of testing like IQ, achievement, personality & mood measures, adaptive functioning, mental status, neuropsychological screens, including assessment for dementias. She loves working with people of all ages and specializes in children with ADD/ADHD, other executive functioning disorders, as well as trauma of all types. She also works with adults struggling with mood disorders (anxiety, depression, Bipolar), change of life issues, PTSD, as well as co-occurring disorders. She served for 6 years in the Air Force and loves to work with military personnel, vets, and their families. She believes ultimately it is the relationship that heals and that includes a loving relationship with God as our Creator, Sustainer, and Source of Hope.
CHARNET CLARK, MS
Charnet is a graduate of Capella University with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy Counseling. She is currently working toward licensure in the state of Georgia and is under the direct supervision of Christyn Walker, MA, LPC, CPCS. Charnet feels her greatest strength is her ability to connect with her clients. She works with adults, teens, adolescents, and families. She has additional training in trauma and is a certified Prepare Enrich Facilitator for married and pre-marital couples. She is able to work on a sliding scale and is available by appointment.
EMILY PUCKETT, M.Ed, LPC
Emily Puckett is a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of West Georgia. Emily works with individuals of all ages including littles (9+), teens, and adults dealing with trauma, grief, depression, stress, conflict, and anxiety. Emily has training in 12STR using a structured trauma model to help clients process trauma. Emily is passionate about walking alongside individuals as they navigate the challenges of life and finding that their strength lies ultimately in God and not themselves. Emily is currently taking clients with Anthem BC/BS, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, and others.
KARA CLARK, MA
Kara obtained a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She is currently working toward licensure in the state of Georgia and is under the direct supervision of Christyn Walker, MA, LPC, CPCS. Kara specializes in trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress management, communication skills, and life changes. Kara has experience working with individuals from ages 14 and up. She is trained in 12STR which uses a structured trauma model to help clients process previous trauma. She is available for virtual and in-person sessions in Forsyth and McDonough by appointment. She also works on a sliding scale.
MICHAEL HILDRETH, MDiv
Michael holds a Diploma in Linguistics, Bachelor’s degrees in Theology and Biblical Counseling, and a Master of Divinity. He is pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University while under the supervision of Denice Colson, Ph.D., LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS, DAAETS, and has numerous certifications from military and law enforcement. He began his ministry journey at 17 and has served as an Associate Pastor, Staff Evangelist, International Missionary, Senior Pastor, and currently as a U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain with 16 years of experience. In addition, he is a first responder with a municipal Police Department. Aspiring to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Michael aims to support military, veteran, and law enforcement communities, especially in dealing with TBI, PTSD, Moral Injury, Trauma, and Suicide.
MONICA BRYANT, MA, LPC
Monica is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for working with children and women. She earned her Master of Arts in Counseling in Clinical Mental Health from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Monica creates a warm, welcoming environment where children and women feel seen, heard, and supported. She believes in the therapeutic power of play to help children process emotions and promote healing. Monica employs various methods of treatment tailored to each child’s needs and is trained in EMDR, a specialized approach for addressing trauma.
She has experience working with survivors of sexual abuse and human trafficking. Her compassionate heart and attentive listening skills help clients feel safe as they unpack their stories and explore their emotions. Monica partners with children, women, and their families to guide them toward healing and wholeness. She considers it an honor to walk alongside your child on their journey. She accepts self-pay and insurance.
APRIL HEALY, INTERN
April Healy is a master’s level intern pursuing her master’s in counseling at the Townsend Institute at Concordia University, Irvine. She is under the supervision of Dr. Denice Colson and is expected to graduate in December 2024.
April is experienced in addressing an array of issues, including existentialism, trauma, sports, family systems, anxiety, depression, church hurt, communication issues, grief/loss, and relational hurt. She works with clients of all ages including, couples, individuals, teens, kids, athletes, and ministry leaders.
April is passionate about coming alongside each person, couple, and family to provide support and to serve them as together we pursue the healing and health each one desires. April strives to create a safe, accepting space for her clients to feel like themselves. April is currently taking self-pay clients.
April is a wife and mom of 5 children. She has served the church for 18 years and was a collegiate athlete for WSU. She deeply loves family, running, sports, the church, and Jesus. In her spare time, April likes to run, spend time with friends and family, and go camping.
CAMEIKA SHELLEY, INTERN
Cameika is training as a counselor at ELCCC while attending Grand Canyon University for her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Under Dr. Denice Colson's supervision, she is dedicated to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. As a licensed pastoral counselor with many years of experience, Cameika combines therapy with spiritual insights to address both psychological and spiritual aspects of mental health. She works on a sliding scale and sees older teens and adults. Under supervision of Denice Colson, Ph.D, LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS, DAAETS.
EARL MILLER, PASTORAL COUNSELOR
Earl Miller brings more than 20 years of pastoral counseling experience in both clinical and ministerial settings. He holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Master’s in Organizational Leadership. Earl is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors, certified by the Georgia Board for Christian Counselors, and serves as a certified facilitator and trainer for the Prepare/Enrich relationship assessment. He is also listed as a verified provider with Psychology Today.
Earl has served as a staff pastor, chaplain, and founder of a faith-based counseling group, helping adults, couples, and youth integrate psychological insight with spiritual growth. His domestic and international ministry work has equipped him with cultural sensitivity and a global perspective that enrich his counseling practice.
Earl’s mission is to guide clients toward peace, confidence, and hope for the future, inspired by Jeremiah 29:11.
CLARA WARREN
Clara Warren holds an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Richmont Graduate University. She is an Associate Professional Counselor who works with adults (18+) navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship stress, emotional abuse, and struggles with self-esteem or self-worth. Clara also provides couples counseling, helping partners strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and navigate challenges together. Her counseling style is collaborative and tailored to each individual or couple, creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. With compassionate, faith-integrated care, she walks alongside clients as they discover clarity, resilience, and renewed confidence at their own pace. Clara is under the supervision of Deanna Davis, LMFT, LPC, ACS, AAMFT-S, SEP, and Denice Colson, Ph.D., LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS, DAAETS.
TIFFANY WILSON
Tiffany is a dedicated professional who understands the struggles many individuals, couples, and families face when navigating life’s toughest challenges. Whether dealing with persistent mental illness, substance use disorders, trauma, or relationship conflicts, [Name] recognizes that the healing journey can feel overwhelming but emphasizes that no one has to walk it alone. With a structured process and a clear plan, she is committed to guiding clients toward healing.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), and Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), Tiffany specializes in helping clients cultivate inner peace, improve relationships, and gain fresh perspectives.
Tiffany employs a comprehensive approach that centers on the unique experiences of each client. In a safe, non-judgmental environment, she integrates the spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional aspects of well-being. Together, clients and Tiffany identify patterns, develop effective strategies, and leverage inherent strengths to reclaim control and move toward profound self-discovery and transformation.
Recognizing the bravery it takes to seek growth, Tiffany is dedicated to supporting clients' tenacity and celebrating every milestone as they build lives filled with lasting peace and secure connections. With the belief that true empowerment comes from within, she invites clients to “let me into your world, and we’ll make it beautiful again.”
YASMIN HOLMES, INTERN
Yasmin is a master's level intern pursuing her master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Albany State University. She is under the supervision of Dr. Denice Colson and is expected to graduate in December 2026. She loves the Lord and is committed to ensuring that His light shines through her.
Yasmin has experience as a Crisis Intervention Officer when she served as a police officer on the previously named Savannah-Chatham Police Department. This role helped to light a fire of helping those who are in a mental health crisis. This position, amongst others, have built her empathy, established her dedication to supporting those in difficult times, and increased her compassion.
Her approach is client-centered. She believes that every person deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space to express themselves and explore solutions tailored to their unique needs. Whether you are seeking guidance for yourself, your family, or your relationship, she is here to listen and help you move forward with confidence. Together, she can help you work toward greater well-being and fulfillment.
She works on a sliding scale and is currently accepting self-pay clients.
She looks forward to joining you on your journey.