Ellyn Semchenko MSW, LCSW-A
Ellyn holds a Master of Social Work degree from Walden University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSW-A, License# P020820) approved by the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board.
She specializes in working with children aged 5 and above, adolescents, adults in transitional phases, and women, and she is LGBTQIA+ affirming. Ellyn has experience with diverse populations, including adults affected by alcohol use disorders and their families, rural communities, military dependents, children and adults from non-traditional/blended family backgrounds, as well as neurodivergent individuals. Drawing from her own experience as a neurodivergent person, she provides a unique perspective to clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other conditions.
Ellyn integrates various modalities in her therapeutic approach, including play therapy, strength-based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). She fosters a free-flowing conversational style in therapy sessions, aiming to create a safe and comfortable environment where clients can actively participate in their healing journey.
Ellyn is dedicated to empowering her clients to become equal partners in their growth and transformation. She emphasizes collaboration and personalized care to support each individual's unique needs and therapeutic goals.
Sydney Moore MS, LCMHC-A
Sydney Moore received her Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Sydney is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate [LCMHC-A #A21002] approved by the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors [NCBLCMHC].
Sydney has experience working with children, teens, young adults, and adults from diverse backgrounds. She is skilled in supporting clients through a wide range of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, stress, and behavioral concerns. Sydney utilizes a strength-based approach in therapy, incorporating Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy to support clients in navigating their unique challenges.
As an LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming therapist, Sydney is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful environment where every client’s identity and background are honored and respected. She strives to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, gain insight, and work toward personal growth and achieving their goals.
Cheryl Velasquez LCSW-A
Cheryl completed her Bachelor’s in Women and Gender Studies and Spanish. She has a Masters of Peace and Conflict Studies from UNCG in Greensboro and a Masters of Social Work from Arizona State University. Cheryl is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker [P016393] approved by the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board.
Cheryl’s employment has been in various settings that include acute, outpatient and school settings, which has given her experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, affirming LGBTQ++ population, women going through life changes, grief, and self-harm. For the past 2.5 years I have been employed as a bilingual therapist in a community-based program. Cheryl enjoys using a strength-based approach encouraging clients to overcome challenges and reach their full potential but also has used CBT and mindfulness in her practices.
As a therapist, Cheryl believes in inclusivity and diversity and welcomes all clients, especially Spanish speaking clients as she is fluent in Spanish.
Alexa Henson LCMHC, NCC
Alexa completed her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor [LCMHC #16389] approved by the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors [NCBLCMHC]. Alexa has been a Certified Brainspotting Therapist since 2023, and Usui Reiki Master/Practitioner since 1983.
Alexa works with adults (18+) from a wide range of cultural, lifestyle, and religious or spiritual backgrounds. Alexa is especially passionate about working with individuals in the healthcare field and members of marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA2S+, those living with chronic health conditions, visible and invisible disabilities, caregivers, and older adults.
She has specialized training in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, mood and thought disorders, and life transitions. Alexa understands the emotional impact of situational crises and traumatic loss, especially when they lead to questioning one’s sense of purpose. She uses a trauma-informed, person-centered, integrative and holistic approach grounded in evidence-based modalities to meet clients where they are. Alexa incorporates interventions from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and Polyvagal Therapy.
Alexa draws from her own lived experience with chronic health issues and physical limitations, which gives her a unique perspective on what it means to feel different and still move toward a more authentic, empowered life. She brings warmth and compassion to the therapy space, encouraging clients to show up fully, explore possibilities for change, and remain present. Alexa collaborates with each client to create a personalized path to mental wellness, offering a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental environment for healing and growth.
Brenda Cisco MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Brenda Cisco received her Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. Mrs. Cisco is an Associate Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor [LCMHCA #A18988] approved by the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors [NCBLCMHC].
Brenda’s focus is adolescents (13+), adults, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and couples experiencing challenges. Brenda uses several approaches and will adjust based on what works best for the individual. Her counseling style includes psychoeducational training, multi-functional perspective, multicultural, and developmental focus across the lifespan. Brenda utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
Brenda strives to meet clients where they are psychologically, emotionally, and relationally while helping them develop goals for achieving their desired levels of overall well-being. It is her goal to foster a safe and collaborative environment where you can build trust and explore various parts of that story together. She values mutual respect, communication, fluidity, and unconditional acceptance. Brenda aims to help you creatively challenge the ideas and stories that are a part of your lived experience.
Dr. Amity S. Hines, DSW, LCSW, LCAS-A
Dr. Amity Hines received her Doctorate of Social Work degree from Capella University. Dr. Hines also has a Master's and Bachelor's in Social Work from East Carolina University. Dr. Hines is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker [C014986] approved by the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board. Dr. Hines is also an Associate Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist [LCAS-26561] approved by the North Carolina Addiction Specialist Professional Practice Board.
Dr. Hines has experience working with children, adults, families, and groups. Dr. Hines has experience with the Department of Social Services (DSS), in school-based therapy, and outpatient therapy settings. Dr. Hines' current focus is on clients experiencing depression, anxiety, behavior-related concerns, substance use, and trauma. Dr. Hines is a Triple P provider and has experience providing parents with and enhancing positive parenting skills. Dr. Hines utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches to best fit the needs of the client which include but are not limited to; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
Dr. Hines strives to create a non-judgmental safe space for all clients and all walks of life. Dr. Hines meets clients where they are and works from a strengths-based approach identifying the strengths of the clients and building on those strengths. Dr. Hines also uses a variety of social work skills and theoretical frameworks to help understand the client and best meet their needs. Dr. Hines enjoys working across multiple populations and helping clients work through negative thoughts and feelings to develop more positive thoughts and improve their overall mental health and well-being.
Gabriela Mendoza MSW, LCSW-A, LCASA
Gabriela received her Master of Social Work (MSW) from East Carolina University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate [LCSWA #P015216] approved by the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board. Gabriela is also an Associate Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist [LCAS-27616] approved by the North Carolina Addiction Specialist Professional Practice Board.
Gabriela is a Latinx bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist and enjoys working with diverse populations. Gabriela has worked with school age children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. Gabriela’s experience as a foster care social worker, school-based therapist, and home-based family therapist has specialized her to work with children, adults, and families.
Gabriela currently works with clients that are adjusting, going through life transitions, experiencing depression/anxiety, substance use, and trauma. She uses strengths-based approach and integrates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy in her practice. Gabriela’s sessions are person centered and tailored to fit each individual need.
Gabriela’s priority is to create a safe place where every client that she sees feels heard, seen, and accepted without any judgment.
Michael L. Headen MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Michael specializes in treating members with dual diagnoses of mental health and addictions. He is trained in conducting DWI assessments and doing SAIOP groups. Additionally, he is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained to deal with complex trauma, addictions, depression and anxiety. He also does sex offender assessment (both adult and adolescents) as well as individual therapy with members. He has experience working with members diagnosed with Traumatic Brain injury and behavioral issues. He has over 30 years of experience working with members with Individual Developmental Disabilities and writing both positive and restrictive behavior programs utilizing Applied Behavioral Analysis techniques (over 225 hours of educational training). Additionally, he is a Registered Yoga Trainer (over 250 hours of training) which he incorporates in his treatment with members as needed.
Michael uses the following treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. He received his training in Applied Behavioral Analysis through Florida Institute, Yoga training through the Yoga Connection, and TBI training through Brain Injury of North Carolina. By providing all-inclusive, integrative mental health and substance use services to individuals, Michael hopes to enhance clients emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical well-being along with personal satisfaction, interpersonal relationships, and overall quality of life.
Graduate: MS North Carolina State University, Psychology
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor #14451 North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors
Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist #1621 North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board
Certified Clinical Supervisor in Addiction #543 North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board
Clinically Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist #26886 National Association of Forensic Counselors
Clinically Trained in Traumatic Brain Injury
Clinically Trained in EMDR for Trauma
Registered Yoga Trainer
Shanice (Ruffin) Neal MSW, LCSW, GC-C
Currently seeing clients in person in Goldsboro, NC. Also offering telehealth services for anyone in NC and SC.
Shanice holds both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in social work from Fayetteville State University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker [C016165] approved by the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board, a Licensed Independent Social Worker [LISW #17714] in South Carolina, and a Certified Grief Counselor accredited by The American Institute of Health Care Professionals, Inc.
Shanice specializes in individual therapy for teenagers, addressing challenges related to self-esteem, body image, academic and social stressors, and identity development. She also provides adult counseling, offering support for anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, work stress, and overall emotional health. Additionally, she offers life transition counseling to help individuals navigate major life changes such as career shifts, parenthood, college transitions, divorce, and retirement. Shanice is skilled in employing effective strategies to reduce symptoms, enhancing coping mechanisms, and building resilience.
Shanice incorporates a variety of evidence-based approaches in her sessions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy. Through CBT, she helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, replacing them with healthier, more constructive ways of thinking. With Person-Centered Therapy, she creates a compassionate, non-judgmental environment that empowers clients to explore their emotions and gain deeper self-awareness. Additionally, her Strengths-Based approach focuses on identifying and leveraging clients' inherent strengths and resilience to overcome challenges, promoting personal growth and empowerment. Shanice strives to create an environment where clients feel secure and comfortable expressing their true selves.
Jessica Garrett-Administrative Intake Coordinator
Joseph Bettini- Medical Records/ Billing