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: R. DENICE COLSON, PhD, LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS
Mrs. Colson is trained as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Master Addiction Counselor, who has contributed to the counseling field since 1982. She 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. She takes a limited number of clients and speaks at luncheons, seminars and other group functions. Visit her training, speaking and supervision site at www.TraumaEducation.com . She is a State Approved DUI Evaluator and Treatment Provider. Also, a Prime Solutions provider, and Certified BrainTek Practitioner.
MELISSA SMITH, MA, BCBC
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 using the 12STR model in addition to assisting those struggling with codependency & relationship concerns; life changes, stress & transitions; grief & loss; communication & conflict resolution; depression & anxiety; burn out & soul care; and spiritual issues & questions or those desiring spiritual direction & formation. She views each counselee as a unique & valuable individual who is best understood through a comprehensive bio-psycho-social-spiritual lens.
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. She sees adults of all ages & works on a sliding scale as she is not on insurance panels.
Melissa is a Board Certified Biblical Counselor through the Board of Christian Professional & Pastoral Counselors & the former Ministry Director here at ELCCC. She has a MA in Human Services Counseling & 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
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.
TIFFANY STARNES, MEd, LPC, NCC, Registered Sex Therapist
Mrs. Starnes has a unique style of working with couples, individuals, premarital counseling, and blended families. Her experience with individuals needing substance abuse treatment, pain management, and people struggling with issues of life transition, anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, sex-related issues and self-esteem, make her an asset to ELCCC. She is on many insurance panels, including BC/BS, Aetna, Cigna, United Behavioral Health, 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.
CHRISTYN WALKER, MA, LPC, CPCS, CCTP
Christyn Walker completed her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Liberty University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor. Ms. Walker’s specialties are trauma and addiction, but she also helps those struggling with grief, loss, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, spiritual issues, etc. Whatever the focus of counseling is, she will strive to meet you where you are and provide a safe place to explore your personal path to healing through empathy, compassion, and understanding. One of her favorite quotes is “Healing takes courage, and we all have courage. Even if we have to dig a little to find it.” (Tori A.) She is currently accepting clients who have United Healthcare or who choose to pay out of pocket.
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.
JEANETTE COOK, MS, LPC
I am a graduate of Liberty University in Virginia with a Master’s in Professional Counseling. I have a passion to work with individuals who have experienced trauma and crisis. I enjoy working with women, couples, and young adults. I am also a Registered Nurse for over 21 years with experience in Cardiac Intensive Care helping patients and families to cope with new health diagnoses. I truly believe through Jesus that people can overcome and become whole again despite the impact of any sudden change(s) that happens in life. I believe in speaking life to any situation and the power of the tongue. I am also on many insurance panels.
AMY KEPHART
Amy is pursuing a Master of Science in Counseling, specializing in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling—a dually certified program at Thomas University. Scheduled to graduate in May 2024, she successfully passed the State of Georgia Licensing Exam in October 2023 and intends to sit for the Certified Rehab Counselor exam in April 2024. Upon completing her post-internship hours after graduation, Amy will obtain both an LPC and CRC. By the end of 2023, she will be certified in Biblical Counseling.
Driven by a dedication to trauma recovery, Amy has fulfilled two internships. One internship was with the Shepherd Center of Atlanta, and was spent focusing on neuromuscular conditions, spinal cord injury, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and pain. The other 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 works under the direct supervision of CHRISTYN WALKER, MA, LPC, CPCS, CCTP, offering 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.
RACHEL GOFF, MA, LPC
Rachel is a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s degree from Liberty University in Professional Counseling. She has experience in the counseling field with a background of working with clients of all ages. She works with adults and teens navigating unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and self-esteem. She has training in 12STR using a structured trauma model to help clients process trauma. Rachel has office hours in Locust Grove and McDonough. She is currently working towards getting on insurance panels, including Anthem BC/BS, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Tri-care, and others.
LEE JOASSIN, MS, LPC, LMFT
Lee Joassin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Professional Counselor. She acquired a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a certification for Counseling in Contemporary Theory in Couple and Family Systems. Lee is Bi-lingual in Creole/French and works with diverse populations. She has a heart to serve couples and families who face challenges with communication, infidelity, divorce, finances, and conflict resolution issues. Lee is also a Christian author who has written biblical resources for couples and families. She is a certified Prepared Enrich Facilitator assisting couples strengthen their relationship. Lee serves individuals and adolescents with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and many other trauma-related challenges. She is currently taking clients with Aetna, Blue Cross & Blue Shield, and United Healthcare, as well as self-pay clients. She is currently available by appointment only.
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.
SHANTE FLUKER, MS, BCCC
Shante is the Associate Director at ELCCC, a Board-Certified Christian and Pastoral Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Capella University. She is also a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors and serves as the Intake Coordinator. With a passion for healing, Shante specializes in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. She integrates her clinical training with a strong understanding of faith, guiding individuals toward emotional and spiritual well-being.
Shante enjoys working with adults on their journey of self-discovery, offering a supportive, trust-based approach that fosters hope and resilience. She believes in the power of collaboration, working alongside clients to create positive changes that restore balance and promote healing. Shante is committed to helping clients build strength and resilience. Sliding scale available by appointment.
JAMIE KILCREASE, MA
Jamie obtained her 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. Jamie has experience in the mental health field working with individuals from ages 13 into adulthood. She is trained in 12STR which uses a structured trauma model to help clients process their trauma. Jamie specializes in navigating the impact of trauma, grief, abuse, anxiety, depression, and more. She is available by appointment and works on a sliding scale.
KARA CLARK, INTERN
Kara Clark is currently a student working on her master's in clinical Mental Health Counselor at Liberty University. She is under direct supervision of Dr. Denice Colson, Ph.D., LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS, DAAETS. She works with adults and adolescents struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. She is available by appointment.
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.
CHARMAINE HAYES, INTERN
Charmaine Hayes is a dedicated Liberty University intern pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. With experience in non-profit organizations focused on at-risk children and adolescents and hospital settings, Charmaine has cultivated a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges.
She works with adolescents, adults, couples (premarital and marital), and families dealing with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, major life transitions, and trauma. Charmaine is trained in the 12STR trauma recovery module, providing a structured approach to help clients process and heal from trauma. Additionally, she holds certification through the Prepare-Enrich program, supporting couples in strengthening their relationships.
With over a decade of experience working with couples in crisis and marital difficulties, Charmaine brings knowledge and empathy to her practice. As a bilingual counselor (English/Spanish), she is passionate about serving diverse communities and helping individuals find health and healing.
Charmaine is supervised by Dr. Denice Colson, Ph.D., LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS, and DAAETS.
LUKE MCGEE, INTERN
Luke McGee is currently an intern pursuing his master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. He is supervised by Dr. Denice Colson, Ph.D., LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS, and DAAETS.
Luke is also a pastor at Momentum Christian Church and has served in pastoral ministry since 2006. He has experience with adolescents, adults, premarital and marital counseling, and has a heart for working with pastors. He is also trained in 12STR to use a structured model to help clients process trauma.