Wilkesboro Team
Jodi Province MA, LCMHCS, NCC
Licensed in NC and VA.
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with experience in the treatment of young children, adolescents, and adults. I am a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents with histories of trauma and/or abuse. As a clinician, I assist families in strengthening their relationships, developing secure attachments, improving coping skills, and enhancing children’s growth and self esteem using models such as Theraplay(R) Principle Techniques, TFCBT, and EMDR. I am also a Rostered North Carolina Child Treatment Program therapist.
Deb Wages MA, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Custody Evaluator
I am a graduate of University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in developmental psychology and graduate of Liberty University with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am trained and/or certified in a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities which include: Trauma-focused Cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), and trauma informed play therapy. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples who have emotional and/or behavioral challenges and I practice within a strength-based, person-centered supportive approach. As a clinician, I work in collaboration with the client to build confidence, end generational cycles, and learn coping strategies to enhance all areas of their lives. My aim is to help individuals learn how to relate to others in a healthy way and offer compassionate care for the emotionally wounded.
Leslie Smart MS, M.Div, LCMHC
I received my Master of Divinity from Andrews Seminary and my Master of Science in Community Counseling from Western University. I have had additional chaplaincy training from NC Baptist Hospital, as well as Systems training and supervision from Westgate Center (Converse College, SC).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I use a variety of modalities to assist each person in enhancing their resiliency, and gaining new skills. I believe building a relationship with each client sets the foundation for progress in the healing journey.
Les is located in the Wilkes County Health Department.
Elizabeth Coleman, EdD, LCMHC, NCC, NBCT
I'm am a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (B.A.) and Appalachian State University (M.A., Ed.S., Ed.D.) I have worked in the field of counseling for 9 years as a school counselor, college counselor, and private practice clinician. I work with clients using person-centered, cognitive behavior therapy to help them recognize their strengths and abilities to overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and improve relationships. I specialize in working with young adolescents and teenagers as they navigate critical life transitions. My dissertation, which focuses on student transitions to middle school, can be read here. I also advocate for the role of counselors as mental health professionals in public education and speak on related subjects.
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LuAnn Horton MA, LCMHC
I have well over 20 years’ experience in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I believe there is a solution for every problem and I am honored to participate with you in your healing journey. I utilize motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and can focus on trauma recovery as needed. I utilize a person-centered approach to therapy, which creates an environment for positive regard, genuineness, and empathetic understanding.
Donaiel Allen LCMHC, NCC
I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montreat College, North Carolina. I have worked in Mental Health Services for 15 years serving adolescents, adults, and families. I have a background working in Integrated Behavioral Health through Community Mental Health and Non-Profits organizations. My theoretical approach to counseling is grounded in teachings centered around Existential Counseling, Person Centered, Solution Focused Brief Therapy; and evidence-based practices of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), also, Mindfulness Based Interventions. I use interventions that are the best fit for an individuals’ need and preference. I have facilitated Group Therapy and psychoeducation for addiction/recovery, in both institutional and community settings; Women’s Empowerment, Youth, Faith and Spirituality, and Crisis/Safety groups.
David Seamon LCSW-A, LCAS-A
I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from Appalachian State University and my Master of Social Work from East Tennessee State University. As a practitioner I specialize in the intersection of Trauma, particularly developmental and complex trauma, and substance use disorders. I have experience
working with mood disorders, including anxiety and depression, as well as OCD, eating disorders, and struggles with identity. When working with client’s I use a person-centered approach as I believe you are the only expert on you. Other theoretical basis includes Gestalt therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy,
and Somatic Experiencing.
Karina Link MSW, LCSWA
I am an NC native who graduated with a Bachelor's in Social Work from Appalachian State University. I decided to continue my education and complete the advanced standing program again through Appalachian State a year later in order to obtain my Master's degree.
I have a focus on individuals and families and have gained my experience when interning with human service agencies, as well as an alternative elementary school. I have worked with clients with varying diagnoses such as, but not limited to, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Grief. I like to focus on empowering the client and have developed a strengths-based perspective when working with individuals and families. I chose this field because I want to spend my future advocating for at-risk populations to receive the resources and care they deserve.
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Kimberly Pennell, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CCMHC
I graduated from NC State with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and received a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. She holds certifications from the National Board of Certified Counselors as a National Certified Counselor and a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor. Gaining experience in working with adults, children, and families from all walks of life throughout the years has allowed her to develop knowledge of the needs and struggles of various populations experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, gender issues, adjustment issues, conduct disorders, and behavioral issues. She employs evidence based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Behavior Modification in individual, family, and group settings.
Josh Pinkerton, MA LCMHCA
I received my Bachelor of Christian Studies from California Baptist University and a Master of Clinical Counseling, as well as a Master of Divinity, from Columbia International University. As a counselor I specialize in helping my clients confront unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, as well as establish new ways of living and thinking that support mental and emotional wellness. My primary goal is to help you reach your goals, and to put me out of a job! I have worked with a wide range of mood, personality, behavior, and cognitive disorders, and very much appreciate getting to know clients from every background, culture, and belief. I mostly use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) approaches, incorporating positivity, humor, and hope.
Taylor Luffman, MSW, LCSWA
I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from University of North Carolina Wilmington with a minor in Gerontology, and Masters of Social Work from Appalachian State University. My 10 year-long journey in medical and educational social work has graced me with the experience and honor of working with a variety of people from different cultures, ethnicities, religious backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. My greatest joy is found working with children, adolescents, and aging populations with ADHD, anxiety, panic disorder, and depression. I utilize Strengths-Based and Person-Centered approaches, meeting my client in the moment, identifying and utilizing strengths, and working towards my client’s set goals. Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing are some of the techniques I use when working with clients. My goal is to provide an inviting, safe, fun environment for my clients where they feel seen and heard as we work together towards healing.
Sandra Hernandez, LCSWA
I earned both my Bachelor and Master of Social Work from Appalachian State University. While interning at Jodi Province Counseling and other human services agencies, I have gained hands-on experience working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse backgrounds. I am passionate about utilizing a person-centered approach while incorporating various techniques into sessions including cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. Furthermore, I offer services in Spanish to better connect with a wide range of clients. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel seen and heard is fundamental to my practice. I look forward to being a part of your healing journey!
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Shannon Cox, MA, LCMHC, Licensed School Counselor
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Master of Arts in Professional School Counseling. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and have experience working with children, adolescents, and families. I practice from a strength-based, person-centered approach incorporating motivational interviewing techniques as well as resiliency models into therapy sessions. I have worked in the school setting as a school counselor for over 10 years and enjoy supporting students on their journey to becoming young adults. As a clinician, it is my goal to offer compassionate care and come alongside you as you navigate challenges and overcome them. I am honored to be part of your journey.
Ashley Dyer MA, LCMCH, LCAS, NCC
I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wake Forest University in May 2022. I earned my B.S. in Elementary Education from Appalachian State University in 2014. I have 6 years of experience in the counseling field including working as a substance use counselor, private practice clinician, and a school counselor. My eclectic counseling background has allowed me to work with a individuals with but not limited to, behavior problems (at home and school), general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, development of social skills, suicidal ideation, addiction, life changes, and transitions.
My theoretical orientation is rooted in a person-centered approach, and I utilize a variety of theories and techniques, including motivational interviewing, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral methods. Other theories and modalities may be used as needed when appropriate for each client. My goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship and create a safe and accepting environment where we can work towards the goals you establish.