McKinney | Healing Counseling Center

Heidi Johanson

MS, LPC Supervisor, Co-Owner/Executive Director

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Immediate Stabilization Procedure (ISP), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Specialties: First responders, complex trauma and PTSD

Clientele: Adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas with a Master’s in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Over the course of my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, helping individuals navigate trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, addiction, life transitions, and relationship or identity challenges. These experiences have shaped my ability to be compassionate, understanding, and accepting of each person’s unique journey. I deeply believe that the therapeutic relationship itself is the heart of the healing process.

I draw from a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet each client’s unique needs, tailoring sessions to provide both practical tools and deeper emotional healing. My focus is on creating a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.

I take a collaborative, goal-focused approach, working closely with clients to create a counseling experience that feels personally meaningful. My goal is to support each person in finding wellness, growth, and resilience in everyday life.

Laurie Todd

MS, LPC Supervisor, Co-Owner/Executive Director

Therapeutic Approaches: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Immediate Stabilization Procedure (ISP), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)

Specialties: First responders, trauma and PTSD, phobias, Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)

Clientele: Adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas with a Master’s in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have had the privilege of working with clients facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality and dissociative disorders, schizoaffective disorder, grief, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, phobias, and gender or identity struggles. These experiences have shaped my approach, helping me provide care with empathy, compassion, and understanding. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of effective counseling.

I tailor therapy to each client’s unique needs, creating a safe and supportive space where they feel heard and empowered. My focus is on helping clients process challenges, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful growth in their lives.

I take a collaborative, goal-oriented approach, working alongside clients to address issues that affect daily life. By combining evidence-based techniques with personalized support, I help clients navigate their challenges and move toward wellness and resilience.

Lindsay Hinojosa

MA, LPC Supervisor, Clinical Director

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia & Chronic Pain, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal & Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP), Inferenced-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Interoceptive Exposure (IE), Immediate Stabilization Procedure (ISP), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Nutrition for Mental Health, Christian Counseling upon request

Specialties: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), phobias, first responders, military, Complex-PTSD

Clientele: Adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston–Clear Lake and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Whoop! I have extensive experience supporting adults with Complex PTSD, OCD, anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, phobias, and sleep challenges. I am also a Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS) and enjoy exploring the mind-body connection to support holistic healing. I am especially passionate about working with high risk service professionals—first responders, military/veterans, agricultural workers, healthcare providers, fellow clinicians, and others who have given so much to our communities.

I strive to create a warm, safe, and supportive environment where clients feel truly seen, heard, and understood. I work collaboratively with each person to explore their challenges, uncover their strengths, and build the tools and confidence they need to reclaim their lives. My goal is to guide clients through healing in a way that feels empowering, compassionate, and deeply personal.

Through years of experience in non-profits, community clinics, the prison system, and private practice, I aim to provide a space where clients can grow, process, and find lasting resilience. My “retired” therapy dog, Kira, also joins me in sessions daily, offering comfort and companionship along the journey.

Barbara Crump

MA, LPC Supervisor

Therapeutic Approaches: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Specialties: First responders, trauma, childhood abuse, addiction/recovery

Clientele: Adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas. My approach is collaborative, goal-oriented, and centered on helping you create meaningful change through intentional, focused, and forward-moving work. Together, we will identify what’s not working, clarify where you want to go, and use targeted strategies to help you move forward.

I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, panic disorder, social anxiety, substance use, anger, trauma, boundaries, codependency, shame, and grief. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), both of which are focused, experiential approaches designed to help process trauma and reduce distress at a deeper level. These methods support meaningful progress by working directly with the root of issues in an active and engaged way.

I am also trained in Clinical Incident Stress Management and First Responder Peer Support, and understand the unique challenges facing First Responders and their families. I specialize in helping individuals and families identify who they want to be, build on their strengths, and create lasting, meaningful change.

If you are looking for a fast paced and intensive approach to tackling your problems, we would be a good fit. My approach is active, supportive, and focused on helping you build momentum toward meaningful change. I would be honored to support you in your mental health and overall well-being.

Tania Kader

MS, LPC

Therapeutic Approaches: Client-Centered, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

Specialties: Play therapy, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, depression

Clientele: Children, teens, adults, and families

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with a Master of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I work with children, teens, and adults on a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender/identity, autism, parenting and family challenges, OCD, and bipolar disorder.

I primarily use a person-centered approach, tailoring therapy to each client’s needs with evidence-based modalities such as CBT, ERP, and interpersonal psychotherapy. When working with children ages 3–12, I often incorporate play therapy to help them process emotions in a supportive and healing environment.

My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practice. I strive to create a safe space where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through personalized treatment plans, I collaborate with clients and their families to enhance overall well-being and quality of life.

Blake Thomas

MA, LPC

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Existential Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for trauma and PTSD, Mindfulness-based

Specialties: ADHD, autism, trauma, PTSD, addiction and recovery, grief, anger management, spiritual challenges, men’s issues

Clientele: Children, adolescents, adults, and couples

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I hold a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Amberton University. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore life’s challenges and move toward healing at their own pace.

I work with teens, adults, and couples on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I also support individuals navigating ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and men’s emotional or identity-related challenges. Additionally, I enjoy working with parents of neurodivergent children and offer Christian counseling upon request.

At the core of my approach is a commitment to building strong, trusting relationships. I believe the connection between therapist and client is central to meaningful and lasting change. No matter what you’re going through, there is hope, and we will work together to find solutions.

Catherine Bolotte

MEd, LPC

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Existential Therap

Specialties: Complex trauma, PTSD, sexual assault recovery, first responders and high-stress professions, relationship challenges, ADHD

Clientele: Adolescents and adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling Education from the University of New Orleans. My experience includes working with adolescents and adults facing complex trauma, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and individuals exploring gender and sexual identity.

I believe that healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and empathy. My approach is primarily person-centered, and I integrate methods such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, and attachment theory to meet each client’s unique needs. This individualized care supports clients in building meaningful lives grounded in self-understanding and positive change.

As human beings, we all seek both to be understood and to understand ourselves—our motivations, behaviors, and patterns. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore what is working in your life, what is not, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence toward healing and growth.

Patricia Segovia

MS, LPC

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Specialties: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), PTSD, First responders and high-stress professions, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, neurodivergent individuals

Clientele: Children, adolescents, and adults; fluent in English and Spanish

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I hold a Master of Science in Counseling from Texas A&M University–Commerce, a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from The University of Texas at Austin, and I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC).

Before becoming a counselor, I spent over 15 years in education working with students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Supporting adolescents and families from diverse backgrounds strengthened my ability to connect, build trust, and foster meaningful relationships. These experiences continue to guide my work in therapy today.

I specialize in supporting individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress, and those in high-stress professions such as first responders. I also provide affirming care for neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and autism. My approach emphasizes compassion, collaboration, and growth, creating a space where healing is supported and your goals feel within reach.

Grace Russell

MS, LPC Associate, Supervised by Laurie Todd, LPC Supervisor

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Specialties: Play therapy, Parent-child conflict and family dynamics, PTSD, childhood/attachment trauma, substance abuse impact within the family system, life transitions

Clientele: Children, adolescents, adults, and families

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas, supervised by Laurie Todd, LPC-S. I earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce and have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families navigating life’s most challenging moments.

My background in community mental health has given me experience supporting clients through depression, anxiety, parent-child conflict, PTSD, attachment-related and childhood trauma, family dynamics, substance abuse within the family system, and major life transitions.

Above all, I strive to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel truly heard and supported. My goal is to walk alongside you with empathy and respect, helping you build the insight, resilience, and skills needed to move forward with confidence and clarity.

Jessica Suchanek

MS, LPC Associate, Supervised by Laurie Todd, LPC Supervisor

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Expressive Arts Therapy, Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT)

Specialties: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), LGBTQ+ affirming care and identity development, life transitions, relationship concerns, emerging adulthood

Clientele: Adolescents and adults

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas, supervised by Laurie Todd, MS, LPC-S. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of North Texas. I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients through a wide range of challenges, including trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship concerns, identity development (with a focus on LGBTQ+ affirming care), life transitions, and self-esteem.

I’m especially passionate about helping individuals navigate meaningful turning points in life—whether that’s adjusting to new roles, managing the uncertainty of emerging adulthood, or building healthier relationships. I place a strong emphasis on creating a trusting therapeutic relationship and take time to understand each client’s unique life story.

Above all, I believe that every person has the innate capacity to grow, heal, and live with greater self-understanding and balance. My role is to help create a safe, affirming space where that work can happen.

Taylor Buckner

MS, LPC

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Parent Training

Specialties: First responders, complex trauma, grief/loss, parent training, LGBTQIA+

Clientele: Adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with a passion for helping adults navigate trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma-informed parenting. I provide LGBTQIA-affirming care and work with veterans transitioning back to civilian life. My service in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman and behavioral health technician was an invaluable experience that solidified my commitment to the mental health field.

I have worked in a variety of mental health settings, allowing me to develop an eclectic and flexible approach tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw on these experiences to create a supportive and healing environment where clients can process their challenges and grow in self-discovery.

My goal is to foster a space of authenticity, safety, and empowerment, helping clients find inner peace and practical solutions to life’s challenges.

Lindsey Smith

MS, LPC Supervisor

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

Specialties: Trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, life transitions

Clientele: Adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas, with a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from UT Southwestern. I have experience supporting individuals and families through depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addictions, life adjustments, personality disorders, and various family challenges.

I am dedicated to empowering clients and providing compassionate support as they explore their potential for growth. I tailor my approach to meet each client’s unique needs, helping them build understanding, insight, and coping skills to navigate life’s challenges.

I strive to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard and understood. My goal is to help each person recognize their strengths, overcome obstacles, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

Priya Bhakta

MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-Supervisor

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing

Specialties: South asian & immigrant adults navigating cultural identity, family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, codependency within relationships

Clientele: Adolescents and adults; fluent in English, Gujarati, and conversational Hindi

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas, supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I work with adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready for change, my goal is to walk alongside you with compassion and care.

My approach is trauma-informed and rooted in the belief that healing happens within safe, trusting relationships. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and empowered to explore the emotions and patterns holding you back. I offer therapy in English and Gujarati, and can also communicate conversationally in Hindi.

Whether we meet in person or online, I want you to feel comfortable showing up just as you are. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and you don’t have to take it alone. I’m here to support your journey toward healing, growth, and self-connection.

Ariel Davis

MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC Supervisor

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Solution-Focused Therapy, Parent Training

Specialties: School-related issues and academic stress, family struggles, parent training, grief and loss support, autism spectrum support

Clientele: Adolescents and adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas, supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S, and a Certified School Counselor. For the past five years, I’ve supported teens, families, and educators as a school counselor, helping them navigate emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. These experiences have fueled my passion for working with adolescents and adults facing school stress, family issues, parenting challenges, or the effects of grief and loss.

I have a special interest in providing parent training to strengthen family dynamics and improve communication at home. I also have experience supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and am dedicated to fostering a welcoming, inclusive space for every client.

Above all, I believe meaningful change begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, collaboration, and respect. Whether you’re coping with anxiety, grief, family conflict, or simply feeling stuck, my goal is to help you find clarity, confidence, and resilience as you move forward.

Holly Wood

MA, LPC Associate, Supervised by Lindsay Hinojosa, LPC Supervisor

Therapeutic Approaches: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Specialties: Trauma and PTSD, military personnel and first responders, career transitions, life adjustments, emerging adulthood, traumatic brain injury (TBI), ADHD

Clientele: Adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas, supervised by Lindsay Hinojosa, LPC Supervisor. I am passionate about walking alongside clients as they navigate trauma, life adjustments, and unique challenges. This includes supporting military personnel and individuals with traumatic brain injuries, providing care with compassion and understanding.

I take a collaborative, goal-oriented approach, helping you identify what matters most and develop practical strategies to move forward. My work is grounded in trauma-informed care, emphasizing safety, understanding, and empowerment throughout your healing process. I can also provide Christian counseling upon request.

Starting therapy can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your experiences, gain clarity, and work toward meaningful, lasting growth.

Lauren Jones

MS, LPC

Therapeutic Approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Specialties: Eating Disorders, PTSD/Trauma, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Clientele: Adults

You may be an adult or young adult struggling with trauma, obsessive thoughts, or a complicated relationship with food and body image. You are thoughtful, motivated, and looking for therapy that goes beyond quick fixes. Many of my clients want support that is structured, compassionate, and focused on creating lasting change rather than short-term symptom relief.

I specialize in working with adults and young adults experiencing trauma, OCD, and eating-disorder recovery. My approach integrates EMDR, IFS, ACT, and CBT to help clients understand patterns, build flexibility, and develop a more grounded relationship with themselves. Therapy is collaborative, paced, and goal-focused.

Therapy is most effective when it feels like the right fit. If you’re ready to engage in meaningful work around trauma, OCD, or disordered eating, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can focus on sustainable change and building a life that feels more balanced and connected.

Natalie Carlton

MS, LPC, LCDC

Therapeutic Approaches: Adlerian Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing

Specialties: Trauma, substance abuse, suicide intervention, mood disorders, body image, disruptive conduct, emotional regulation

Clientele: Children, adolescents, and adults

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University–Commerce. I have eight years of experience in psychotherapy and six years specializing in addiction services, working with individuals across the lifespan on issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-esteem, emotional regulation, stress management, and schizophrenia.

I provide a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly. I focus on understanding each person’s unique experiences and helping them identify strengths and strategies to address challenges in meaningful ways.

My goal is to empower clients to gain confidence, develop practical tools, and improve overall well-being. I am passionate about helping people move past stressors and obstacles so they can live balanced, fulfilling, and authentic lives.

Shannon Dardaman

MA, LPC Associate, Supervised by Lindsay Hinojosa, LPC Supervisor

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

Specialties: Relationship issues and communication struggles, PTSD, grief, life transitions, chronic illness and health-related challenges, domestic violence, emotional abuse

Clientele: Adolescents and adults

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas, supervised by Lindsay Hinojosa, LPC Supervisor, and Loren Hervey, LPC Supervisor. With a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Amberton University and a background in education, I provide a compassionate and supportive space for individuals navigating grief, loss, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.

I am passionate about helping clients process difficult experiences and find hope and healing. Therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s normal to feel uncertain, but you don’t have to face it alone. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, understood, and supported.

Whether you’re coping with a recent loss, managing the impact of chronic illness, or seeking greater clarity and self-understanding, I’m here to walk alongside you. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and renewed resilience in your life.

Mercy Cer

Practicum Student, Supervised by Lindsay Hinojosa, LPC-S

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Faith-Based

Areas of Focus: Anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity exploration, multicultural issues

Clientele: Children, Adolescents, and Adults

I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary, and am a practicum student working under the supervision of Lindsay Hinojosa, LPC-S. My academic journey has shaped my passion for understanding people holistically—considering both their internal experiences and the environments that influence them.

I am especially passionate about working with teens and young adults, particularly those who come from diverse backgrounds, including individuals who identify as POC, immigrant, or first-generation. I value creating a space where clients feel seen, understood, and safe to explore their identity, experiences, and challenges without judgment.

My approach to counseling is relational and holistic, drawing from person-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and strengths-based techniques. I value meeting clients where they are and helping them explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that feels both safe and empowering.

I also enjoy incorporating creative and engaging elements into sessions when appropriate, especially for clients who may not always have the words to express what they’re feeling. My goal is to walk alongside clients as they grow in self-awareness, confidence, and resilience, while helping them navigate both everyday challenges and deeper personal experiences.

Kate Dunphy

Practicum Student, Supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy

Areas of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Trauma, Relationship Issues

Clientele: Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Families

I am pursuing my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at St. Bonaventure University and am a practicum student under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S.

My academic journey has deepened my interest in how people make sense of their experiences and the stories they come to believe about themselves over time.

My approach to counseling is primarily person-centered, and I integrate a variety of interventions tailored to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. I am especially drawn to narrative therapy, as it empowers clients to re-author their stories, separate themselves from their problems, and recognize their strengths and resilience. I also incorporate strengths-based and trauma-informed perspectives to support clients in making meaning of their experiences in ways that feel authentic and empowering.

I strive to create a supportive and collaborative therapeutic environment grounded in warmth, genuineness, empathy, and humor. I believe that building a trusting therapeutic relationship is essential to meaningful growth and lasting change.

Kari Brannan

Practicum Student, Supervised by Laurie Todd, LPC-S

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered

Areas of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, LGBTQ+

Clientele: Adults

I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in counseling at Amberton University and am a practicum student working under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S. My background as a retired firefighter/paramedic, chaplain, and peer supporter has deeply shaped my passion for helping individuals navigate trauma, identity shifts, life transitions, and relational challenges.

After serving 13 years as a firefighter/paramedic, I developed a deeper understanding of the emotional and relational impact that trauma, chronic stress, loss, and major life transitions can have on individuals and families, especially within first responder communities. These experiences strengthened my desire to create a counseling space where clients feel understood, respected, and supported as they process difficult experiences and work toward healing and resilience.

My approach to counseling is relational, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Gestalt-based techniques. I value meeting clients where they are and walking alongside them as they build insight, rediscover purpose, and move toward meaningful growth.

Kira

Kira is a Siberian Husky and retired therapy dog! Kira provided Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) for four years by offering gentle hugs and helping clients manage overwhelming emotions in their sessions. Although she is retired, she still comes to the office almost daily just to get free pets. She loves fishing, swimming, and boating on the lake, and will gift you with endless black and white hairs to take home on your clothes! Through physical touch and just her simple presence in therapy, Kira can offer additional comfort and support when processing through difficult topics and emotions.

Daisy

Daisy is an Airedoodle (Airedale Terrier/Poodle mix), and she is a registered service dog. She is available to help clients relax and reduce stress and anxiety during sessions. Daisy is hypoallergenic and doesn’t shed! She has never met a stranger, and she loves getting pets and attention from everyone she meets. When not in therapy sessions, she loves to chase tennis balls, go for car rides and walks, and play with the tiny humans that live in her home. She is ready to be present in therapy sessions to sit on the couch and cuddle next to clients, to sit on the floor and get pets, or to simply lay on the floor and brighten client’s days.

Our McKinney Therapists

Heidi Johanson

Laurie Todd

Lindsay Hinojosa

Patricia Segovia

Blake Thomas

Natalie Carlton

Shannon Dardaman

Grace Russell

Ariel Davis

Holly Wood

Tania Kader

Catherine Bolotte

Barbara Crump

Taylor Buckner

Lindsey Smith

Priya Bhakta

Lauren Jones

Jessica Suchanek

Mercy Cer

Kate Dunphy

Kari Brannan

Daisy

Kira

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