Therapists

Take some time to read about the different specialties and certifications our therapists have to offer. Please note there could be a wait for new clients depending on your insurance plan, and that not every therapist is in network with every insurance. To inquire about availability and scheduling by calling 614-972-7928 or by clicking on the contact page and sending an email.

Kristen Santel, MSW, LISW-S (she/her)

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Worker Board and an LCSW through the State of Arizona, and my work is truly my passion. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in working with adults, children, and teens managing complex and developmental trauma, PTSD, traumatic grief, attachment challenges and relational trauma, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, and dissociative disorders. I also have much experience working with military and government personnel, crisis, and recent traumatic events. As an adoptee myself, I have a specialization in working with the adoption and foster care community, working with both child and adult adoptees, providing consultation and education to adoptive and foster parents, and reparative/developmental attachment in both childhood and into adulthood.

I am a Level II EMDR Psychotherapist with Advanced and Master Class Training in Attachment and Somatic Psychotherapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), certified hypnotherapist with American Society of Clinical Hypnotherapy, and a Certified Trauma Practitioner, Deep Brain Reorienting Level 3 trained under Dr. Frank Corrigan, as well as being trained in TF-CBT, CISM, MI, and extensive training and education in IPNB (Interpersonal Neurobiology), ongoing consultation in Psychoanalysis, Coherence Therapy and Memory Reconsolidation, Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Body-based Psychotherapies, Flash Technique, Internal Family Systems, Structural Dissociation, and several other therapeutic modalities focusing on somatic psychotherapy and attachment. I am also fully trained in the Alexander Technique DBR Interweaves under the direct teaching and observation of their originator in the UK, psychotherapist Martin Warner. I receive ongoing consultation from psychoanalyst and psychiatrist Dr. Rich Chefetz, MD out of Washington D.C., as well as other mentors and experts in the field.

I use a collaborative, integrative approach with a strong emphasis on Interpersonal Neurobiology, Attachment Theory, and Affect Theory, to assist clients in helping them feel well supported and educated in their experience.

I present psychoeducation at many conferences and symposiums in the state of Ohio and other areas of the country, as well as support school districts and organizations in broadening education on trauma and traumatic grief. I also specialize in the supervision and consultation of other therapists and professionals in the community who are looking to grow their expertise in the areas of trauma and attachment. My practice truly is my passion, and partnering with my clients to find healing in their lives is my goal. I love my work.

I am the Clinical Director of Camp Lionheart, a free, week-long overnight summer camp for grieving children, here in Central Ohio in the Hocking Hills. Camp Lionheart is in it’s 19th year of existence providing grief support, compassion, trauma-focused counseling, and lots of fun to children suffering the death of parent or sibling. For more information on Camp Lionheart, please visit http://www.camplionheart.org .

License Number, Ohio: I.0700086-SUPV

License Number, Arizona: LCSW-18835

Cheri Kerr, LPCC-S

I had an interest in treating trauma from the beginning of my mental health career in 1998 when I worked at a Partial Hospitalization program for children while studying Art Therapy in an Undergraduate program. Noticing the most troubled children consistently had a trauma history, I began training in evidence-based modalities to treat the underlying trauma instead of the behavior. Since that time I became a Certified EMDR Therapist and an EMDR Consultant, trained in Internal Family Systems, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Attachment Therapy, Play and Expressive Arts Therapies, and have developed an expertise in the treatment of Complex Trauma and Dissociative Disorders providing regular Continuing Education to other therapists in the area over many years. I have also provided Supervision to new clinicians and Consultation for licensed clinicians. I have treated all ages with an Interpersonal and eclectic approach, depending on the individual needs of each client, and am passionate about helping others heal from trauma and traumatic loss.

I am now fully retired and ‘living the life’ primarily in Florida with occasional trips back to Columbus.  This decision continues to be bittersweet, missing greatly the clinical work, my clients, and my colleagues. But all things change and it was time to move into this next adventure of life. I am extremely grateful and proud of this practice Kristen and I built together, very proud of the exceptional work they continue to do with clients of all ages, and confident of the healing and positive changes in people’s life happening every day because of  the clinicians at Santel & Kerr LLC. 

Danielle Weatherholtz, LPCC-S

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor (LPCC-S) through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Worker Board. I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Ohio State University and a bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Development from University of Central Oklahoma. With over 15 years of experience, I work with children, teens, and adults with a range of concerns, including: grief, complex and developmental trauma, relationship challenges, parenting challenges, and anxiety and mood disorders.  Additionally, I have specialized training in supporting needs related to infertility and perinatal mental health.

I am truly passionate about supporting individuals and their families in healing and coping with life’s challenges.  To meet the unique needs of each individual client, I use an integrative approach that is attachment-focused and trauma-informed.  I am trained in EMDR Level II, Deep Brain Reorienting Level 1, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MB-CBT), play-based/expressive arts therapies, and somatic modalities.  I strive to create a warm and compassionate space for each client, where they feel safe and supported in working towards their personal goals.

In addition to the work in my private practice, I enjoy providing community education through conferences, trainings, and workshops. I have presented on topics including creative/expressive arts interventions, anxiety in children and adolescents, the impact of mental health on learning, trauma, and self-care/avoiding burnout.   It is my great privilege to continue to work for Camp Lionheart, as I have for the past 15 years, as a grief and trauma counselor while also supporting program development (www.camplionheart.org).

I also love practicing yoga, drinking coffee, and spending time outdoors with my family and friends.  I truly love the Metro Parks system in Columbus.  If I am not hiking or at a local park, you can probably find me at one of the many great coffee shops Columbus has to offer!

Molly Ottaviano, LPCC

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Family Therapist Board. I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University. I specialize in working with complex and developmental trauma, attachment, and traumatic grief, and work with clients of all ages.  I have a special interest and specialized training in working with children and adolescents who may be experiencing adoption/foster care related issues. It is important for me to be able to provide my clients with an accepting, respectful, non-judgmental environment in which they feel safe and supported.

I am EMDR trained and utilize an integrative approach that is based on the individual’s personal goals. I implement a variety of trauma-informed therapeutic techniques, including: attachment work, somatic experiences, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Internal Family Systems. In addition to working with individuals, I volunteer as a Traumatic Grief Counselor at Camp Lionheart (www.camplionheart.org) for one week every summer. I have also presented on managing mood disorders and suicide prevention methods while working for The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

When I am not at work you can usually find me discovering new restaurants with my family and friends, seeing live music, or attending sporting events. I also enjoy exploring all of the parks that Columbus has to offer, practicing yoga, and nose-diving into a good book on my days off.

Kelly Chambers, LPCC

I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) through the State of Ohio. I have a background in Psychology and Business Management from Wittenberg University and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. I work with people of all ages to help them through challenges like complex and developmental trauma, attachment and relational trauma, PTSD, traumatic grief and dissociative disorders. Whether you’re a child, teenager, or adult, I’m here to support you in navigating life’s tough spots.

I believe that the most important part of therapy is the relationship we build. I feel that it is important to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to grow.

In my work, I use an integrative approach that’s customized to your needs. I’ve trained in techniques like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Deep Brain Reorienting level 2 (DBR). I have experience and training in utilizing theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I also enjoy and frequently use theories based in play therapy, expressive arts therapy, somatic experiences and attachment work. I use these tools to meet you where you are and help you move towards healing.

I’m always learning, whether it’s through continuing education or just being curious about new ways to support the people I work with. I’m here for your process, at your pace.

When I’m not in the office, I’m usually hanging out with my family and my dogs. I love reading, getting outside and going on (very slow) jogs. You’ll often find me sipping coffee with a good book in hand or just enjoying the quiet and loud moments of everyday life.

Amanda Keller, LPCC

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Worker Board. I received my Bachelor’s degrees from Arizona State University in Psychology and Family and Human Development and I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Ohio State University. With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults on a comprehensive breath of needs including; grief, complex and developmental trauma, and anxiety and mood disorders. My work is truly my passion and I enjoy supporting individuals and families in healing and coping with life’s challenges.

I know that each client is unique and I utilize a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of my clients. My approach is strengths based and integrates approaches including DBT, CBT, attachment, somatic therapies and Internal Family Systems. I am truly passionate about working with clients and their families. I strive to create an open and warm environment in my practice where clients feel supported and validated as they work towards their individual goals.

In addition to my work in private practice, I also enjoy providing community education on topics such as emotional regulation in children & adolescents, the impact of mental health on learning, anxiety in children and adolescents, and trauma. I also LOVE that I get to continue to work at Camp Lionheart, as I have for the past 9 years as a grief and trauma counselor (www.camplionheart.org).

Maeve Rising, MSW, LISW (she/hers)

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Worker Board. I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Master’s degree in Social Work, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Ohio Wesleyan University. I work with clients of all ages, ranging from children, teens and adults, providing trauma-informed care and support with a variety of needs; such as complex and developmental trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, dissociation, self-esteem and other mental health disorders.

I am truly passionate about helping individuals and families in their journey towards healing, managing life’s many challenges, and creating a safe, caring, non-judgmental and understanding environment. In order to meet the needs of each individual and family, I utilize an integrative, strengths-based approach of different therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) attachment and somatic work, in which I have completed many advanced trainings. I am Level II EMDR trained, have completed Deep Brain Reorienting Level 3, and continue to expand my knowledge through extensive education in order to best serve my clients.

Outside of the office, I enjoy hiking, reading, baking, playing soccer, and spending time with my friends and cats. One of the highlights of my life has been being part of the clinical staff for Camp Lionheart every summer, as a grief and trauma counselor (www.camplionheart.org).

Kimberly Morales, MSW, LISW-S

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Worker Board and have a Master’s degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. With over 10 years of experience, I enjoy working with clients of all ages who present with a range of concerns, including: complex and developmental trauma, PTSD, traumatic grief, relationship challenges, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, and anxiety and mood disorders.

I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Deep Brain Reorienting Level 2, and utilize a client-centered, strengths-based and integrative approach that is based on the individual’s personal goals. I utilize a variety of evidence-based, trauma-informed therapeutic techniques, including: attachment work, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) , motivational interviewing (MI) and mindfulness.

While I have had extensive training in treating complex trauma, I am excited to continue my education through various trainings in the future that will continue to broaden my therapeutic approach and techniques. I hold a certification in Critical Incident and Stress Management and plan to further develop that area of practice as well.

In my personal time, I enjoy spending time with my family, finding new ways to be creative and taking long walks, all while having a cup of coffee in hand. I look forward to building a secure therapeutic relationship with my clients and hope to provide a space where they feel they can be their authentic selves and feel supported.

Jon Sherman, MSW, LISW

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) through the State of Ohio Counseling and Social Work Board. I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University. I work with adults and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, distress related to ADHD, complex and developmental trauma, dissociative disorders, and relationship and attachment issues.  

My mission as a therapist is to walk with you through whatever hardships you are experiencing in order to accomplish the goals that are important to you, and to create an environment where you can have control on your terms. To do so I adapt my approach and provide you with a lot of choices and different options based on my clinical knowledge. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and have much training and experience with Internal Family Systems, Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Structural Family Therapy, and Mindfulness strategies.

As a therapist, I am always striving to deepen my knowledge of evidence-based modalities in order to provide the most effective treatment that I can. When not in the office, I spend my time cooking, hiking, paying homage to my two dogs- Winne and Chewie, taking photos all over Columbus, trying new restaurants, reading, and going to concerts. 

Cassie Campbell, MSW, LISW

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapy Board.  I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Master’s degree in Social Work, and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from The University of Akron.  I work with adolescent and adult clients providing trauma-focused care and support with a variety of needs; such as complex and developmental trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges.  It is important for me to be able to provide my clients an accepting, respectful, non-judgmental environment in which they feel safe and supported.

I am EMDR trained and utilize an integrative approach that is based on the individual’s personal goals. I implement a variety of trauma-focused therapeutic techniques including being trained in EMDR and Deep Brain Reorienting, and informed by attachment work, somatic experiences, mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.  I enjoy supporting individuals in healing and coping with life’s challenges.  In addition to working with individuals, I volunteer as a Traumatic Grief Counselor at Camp Lionheart (www.camplionheart.org) for one week every summer.

When I am not at work you can usually find me discovering new Columbus restaurants, traveling, or attending sporting events.  I also enjoy practicing yoga, attempting to keep my house plants alive, diving into a good book, and spending time with my cats.

Deb Cannon, MSW, LISW

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Worker Board. I attended The Ohio State University where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Human development and Family Science and my Masters Degree in Social Work. I work with children, teens, and adults as they navigate grief, anxiety, depression, complex and developmental trauma, dissociative disorders, and other mental health challenges. 

I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment for my clients; a non-judgmental space where they can begin to heal from life’s difficulties. I utilize several trauma-focused therapeutic approaches including and informed by Internal Family Systems and Ego State therapy, Attachment Based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). As a lifelong learner I will continue to grow as I seek out new training and experiences. 

When I am not at work I enjoy spending time with my family. I love to hike, read, eat good food, and drink coffee. I also enjoy writing, gardening, as well as creating art.

Nicki Cristina, LPCC

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Family Therapist Board. I have a Master’s degree in School Counseling from the University of Dayton with a certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. In addition, I have a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Dayton. I work with clients of all ages, however, I have specific interest and experience working with children and adolescents. I work with children, teens, and adults with a range of concerns, including grief, complex and developmental trauma, PTSD, relationship challenges, parenting challenges, anxiety, and mood disorders.

I am truly passionate about creating a non-judgmental, supportive, and compassionate environment for each client, where they feel safe in working towards their personal goals and finding their own autonomy. My goal is to support individuals and their families in coping with new or ongoing challenges. To meet the unique needs of each individual client, I use an integrative strengths-based approach that is attachment-focused and trauma-informed. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, including attachment work, somatic experiences, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, play based, expressive arts, and parts work approaches. I enjoy taking my years of experience working in schools to support clients and families with school advocacy. In addition to working with individuals, I volunteer as a grief and trauma counselor at Camp Lionheart (www.camplionheart.org) in the summer.

When I am not at work, I love spending time with my friends and family. I enjoy trying out new restaurants, going on walks, doing yoga, and traveling to new and exciting places.

Jande Thomas, MEd, LPC (she/hers)

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Worker Board under the supervision of Danielle Weatherholtz, LPCC-S. I graduated with a Master’s degree in Counselor Education from Ohio University, with specializations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling. I also received my Bachelor of Arts degrees in Global Health and Psychology from Duke University.

I work with child, adolescent, and adult clients providing trauma-focused care and support with a variety of needs; such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and other challenges of life. My hope is to work together with clients to help them pursue greater clarity and healing, and equip them with insights and practices they can use to keep moving forward in life. To do this, it is important to me to create a safe and comfortable space where clients can feel fully seen and heard as their most authentic self.

I have a trauma-focused, person-centered, integrative approach that utilizes techniques from Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as well. I am also grateful to volunteer as a grief and trauma counselor at Camp Lionheart (www.camplionheart.org) for one week every summer.

Outside of mental health, one of my greatest interests is listening to music of all genres and I love to discover new artists and find my next favorite song to play on repeat. I also enjoy being creative through various mediums and crafts!

Autumn Eckstein, MSW, LSW

I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and received my MSW from The Ohio State University. I also completed my undergraduate at OSU and received my BA degree in Psychology. I work with adolescent and adult clients providing trauma-focused care and support with a variety of needs; such as complex and developmental trauma, PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. It is important for me to create a warm, safe, and comfortable environment for all of my clients.

I am trained in EMDR and utilize an integrative approach that is based on the individual’s personal goals. I provide a variety of trauma-focused therapeutic techniques informed by attachment work, somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, expressive arts, and Internal Family Systems. I am passionate about working with individuals to build coping skills and confidence in navigating life’s everyday stressors, big or small. In addition to working with individuals, I volunteer as a Traumatic Grief Counselor at Camp Lionheart (www.camplionheart.org) for one week every summer.

When I am not at work you can usually find me traveling to new places or finding new restaurants to try. I also enjoy going to the gym, hanging out with my dogs, and spending time with my partner. I enjoy anything outdoors such as having a bonfire or hiking!

Emily Hunter, MSW, LSW (she/hers)

I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I hold both a Master of Social Work degree and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the Ohio State University. I have been a mental health advocate in a variety of roles which has informed my profound understanding of the need for holistic care in the healing process. I work with clients of all ages; however, I have a special interest in working with teens and young adults. I support clients navigating a variety of needs including grief, PTSD, trauma, attachment wounds, relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression.

I am dedicated to walking with my clients in their healing, and emphasize creating a non-judgmental, collaborative space. I view my clients as the experts of their experience and strive to create a therapeutic environment centered on client strengths, goals, and autonomy. In my work, I use an integrative approach to collaborate with clients from a strengths-based, trauma-informed lens. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to the unique needs of clients, informed by mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and solution-focused therapy (SFT).

I am always seeking opportunities for additional growth and training to expand my capacity to best support my clients. When I am not at work, I am most likely spending time with loved ones, watching movies, reading, and enjoying live music.

Katie Pontious, MSW, LSW (she/her/hers)

I am a licensed social worker (LSW) through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Master’s degree in Social Work, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan in communication studies. I work with clients through a trauma-informed and affirmative lens on concerns such as anxiety, depression, developmental and acute trauma, PTSD, relationship concerns, identity exploration, attachment wounds, and grief.

I work with clients of all ages, and have experience and am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I welcome and work with clients of all backgrounds and am committed to acknowledging both the privileges I carry with me into the therapeutic space and the systemic issues and oppression that contribute to mental health struggles.

I am trained in Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Memory Reconsolidation, and utilize an integrative approach that might also include therapy informed by Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, attachment work, CBT, and narrative therapy.

I am always seeking out continued training and learning opportunities to better serve my clients. Outside of work I love spending time with my family and friends, taking walks and hikes, trying new restaurants, reading, and visiting the city’s coffee shops!

Kathleen Gibbs, LPC, RYT 200 (She/Her/Hers)

Hello, I’m Kathleen, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) certified through the Ohio CSWMFT board, with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capital University and under the supervision of Danielle Weatherholtz, LPCC-S.. Prior to my counseling career, I spent six years in the corporate world, where I recognized the importance of wellness for preventive care and life balance.

In my practice, I engage with individuals of all ages and couples, addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, relationship conflict, identity exploration, grief, burnout, and career exploration. I have experience and am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA2S+ community, couples, professionals, and young adults. With a commitment to transparency and inclusivity, I intentionally reflect on and acknowledge the privileges of my identity as a cisgender, white, heterosexual married female, striving to create a safe space for all clients.

I believe in honoring each person’s unique journey toward healing, prioritizing meaningful connections infused with kindness, authenticity, and humor. My therapeutic approach is rooted in attachment and person-centered theory with an overarching trauma-informed lens, incorporating techniques from Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as mindfulness, and trauma-informed yoga practices stemming from my training as a yoga teacher. I am particularly passionate about applying emotional-focused therapy (EFT) for couples, intending to foster deeper connections and healing.

Outside of counseling, I enjoy yoga, culinary experiments, exploring local coffee shops, cuddling my doggos, and nurturing my beloved houseplants.

Claire Miller, MSW, LSW

I have a Bachelor’s in Journalism from Loyola University Chicago and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from The Ohio State University. I spent five years in the media field working at a newspaper and magazine publishing company. Additionally, I spent a year as an AmeriCorps VISTA during which time I worked as a mentorship program coordinator focusing on fostering protective factors and resilience in at-risk youth.

I work with clients of all ages to provide trauma-informed and trauma-focused care for anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ issues, complex and developmental trauma, and more. I have a client-centered and holistic therapy approach to practice where I show up with curiosity and non-judgmental presence.

I’m grateful to be under the supervision of Kristen Santel, LISW-S and to have the support of the knowledgeable and compassionate staff at Santel & Kerr.

Outside of work and school, I enjoy running, yoga, reading, listening to podcasts, and spending time with my partner and our cat and dog.

Haley Gniadek, MSW, LSW

I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from The Ohio State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri (Mizzou). I also have minors in Human Development and Family Sciences, Juvenile Justice, and Social Justice. In addition, I have undergraduate certificates in Addiction Studies, Neuroscience, and Multicultural Studies. I am very passionate about learning, and I strive to learn as much as possible. I enjoy engaging in research and have presented the research that I have conducted at multiple research conferences in the Midwest.

I work with clients of all different ages who are dealing with mental health challenges, anxiety, depression, complex and developmental trauma, self-esteem issues, life transitions, emotional regulation, and more. I’m passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and discover their inner strengths. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and authenticity. I believe in creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. I tailor my approach to meet each client’s unique needs and goals.

I have a lot of experience working with children and teens of various ages. In the past, I’ve worked as a Gymnastics Coach, Mental Health Technician, and volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club. I have training and experience working with children and teens in crisis, residential treatment and higher levels of care, and individuals who have dealt with severe trauma.

In my free time, I enjoy exploring new restaurants and places in Columbus since I just recently moved here from St. Louis, MO. I also enjoy spending time with my dog and taking him on walks at the park.

Emilee King, M.S.E., LPC

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) certified through the Ohio CSWMFT board under the supervision of Danielle Weatherholtz, LPCC-S. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master of Science in School Counseling, and a Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, all from the University of Dayton—making me a proud Dayton Flyer through and through!

With experience in private practice, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse backgrounds. I provide trauma-informed care that supports clients through challenges such as anxiety, depression, complex and developmental PTSD, life transitions, relationship and attachment challenges, and more. My therapeutic approach integrates play-based and expressive arts techniques for younger clients, while incorporating person-centered, trauma-focused, and evidence-based strategies for adults. Empathy and compassion guide my work as I strive to create a safe, supportive environment for every client I meet.

When I’m not meeting with clients or attending classes, you can often find me working at Starbucks, relaxing with a paint-by-numbers project, or spending time with my family and my pet rabbit.

Dyaniese Brown, SWT

Hi, I’m Dyaniese! I’m an intern working toward my master’s degree in clinical social work at Ohio University and expect to graduate in May 2026! I am currently under the supervision of Kristen Santel, LISW-S. I obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from The University of Toledo. My corporate career helped to forge this path by allowing me to volunteer with organizations focused on supporting the community, particularly those serving youth. I chose to formally pursue social work because I genuinely care about people! I believe there’s no greater purpose than helping others—especially as they navigate life’s challenges.
Since starting grad school, I’ve had the opportunity to support clients with a range of diagnoses including trauma and anxiety. My capacity to build rapport allows me to easily connect with people of all ages. The core tenets of my approach are respect, empathy, and a belief that clients are experts in their lives. I view the therapist & client relationship as deeply collaborative. I’m excited to join the Santel & Kerr team and look forward to growing my ability to support every client.
When I’m not tackling homework, I’m hanging out with family! We love traveling, discovering new food spots & coffee shops, and listening to live music. For Dyaniese-time, I enjoy hot yoga and hot Pilates. I also love a challenge so I’m working on learning French and Italian at the same time. Once I graduate, I can’t wait to get back to writing, with hopes of being a children’s book author!

Beans, Office Manager

Beans is our office manager and in-office cat that spends time with clients in session, if they so choose. Beans likes belly pets, sleeping next to you on the couch, fluffy blankets, and playing with toys. She has a black mustache and white eyebrows and a squeaky meow, and she loves spending time with her friends all day (therapists and clients)! Beans has turned down 20 different kinds of cat treats and her mom, Kristen, is on a mission to find a treat she likes!

*Service Fees for therapists are billed at $150.00 per psychotherapy hour, $175.00 per diagnostic assessment and consultation.

Clinicians can only practice within their scope of practice.
-This information is required by the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker & Marriage and Family Therapist Board, which regulates all licensed
counselors, social workers and marriage and family therapists.
-If you have complaints about professional services from a counselor, social worker or marriage and family therapist, contact the:
Ohio Counselor, Social Worker & Marriage and Family Therapist Board
50 West Broad St., Suite 1075
Columbus, OH 43215
http://www.cswmft.ohio.gov