Meet Our Counselors
Meredith Ball
I enjoy working with men, women, and couples experiencing life transitions and crises. Many of my adult clients are not experiencing a crisis currently. Still, they are trying to unravel the effects of a dysfunctional childhood or lost relationship, which might show up today as hypervigilance, depression, anger, or reactivity. My approach incorporates healing for the mind, soul, and body. Trauma rewires the brain for survival, and many of my clients are ready to quit living in survival mode and re-train their brains to live authentically. I enjoy integrating approaches to help each client discover what it would look like to remove barriers and step into whole-hearted living.
I also enjoy working with elementary and middle school children who have experienced grief or turmoil or who have been termed highly sensitive or neurodivergent. Through the modality of Child-Centered Play Therapy or other experiential methods, we can address feelings of loss and confusion in an age-appropriate manner, helping them develop a healthy sense of self. I enjoy consulting with parents to normalize their experiences and provide strategies for supporting their children. Using a family systems lens, I often help parents consider the dynamics present in their home and how even small shifts can result in healthier attachments.
At heart, I am an experiential therapist, and I rely heavily on Emotionally Focused Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing. I find those approaches can help clients to become “unstuck” and move into a life that feels more congruent and authentic. I find that at the heart of much human suffering are questions such as “Am I good enough?” or “Will I always feel alone?” As a therapist, I walk alongside clients to discover the strengths and resources they possess, helping them to write a new story with themes of competence, belonging, and love.
One of the benefits of working at Lantern Lane Farm is the beautiful and restorative facility with horses, walking trails, basketball hoops, and an art therapy room. Even those clients who choose to stick with a more traditional talk therapy experience often comment that the peaceful setting contributes meaningfully to their experience.
As a seminary trained therapist with degrees in both Theological Studies and Clinical Mental Health, I also utilize a Christian integrative approach at the invitation of the client. Some clients find that spiritual practices and theological concepts, when combined with counseling modalities, are powerful and healing.
Phillip Bates, MA ~ Professional Counselor Under Supervision
Phillip received his Master’s of Arts degree in Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. He has a passion for empowering individuals to overcome personal obstacles. He has worked to help people with self-esteem issues, grief, anxiety, trauma (PTSD), and depression. Phillip became a counselor to encourage people in their quests to live healthier, happier lives. Before receiving his master's degree, Phillip earned a BA in Psychology and a BS in Forensic Chemistry from the University of Mississippi.
Growing up, Phillip always played sports. This is where he gained an inherent love of the sports world. Being a team player for more than a decade has provided him with the ability to connect with people from all walks of life, but also a special affinity for athletes. His background in volunteer coaching has given him valuable insight to helping people of all ages.
Lauren Benefield, MMFT, ~ Marriage & Family Therapist Under Supervision
Lauren has recently completed her Masters of Counseling program at Indiana Wesleyan University with a specific concentration on marriage and family therapy (MFT).
While pursuing licensure as a marriage and family therapist, she incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, adventure therapy and internal family systems. For the past 7 years, Lauren has been leading groups with adolescents and teens focused on transitioning to various life changes, healthy relationships and communication with others, setting boundaries, and regulating emotions. She has a special interest in working with individuals and families who are seeking support as they navigate symptoms of anxiety and depression that may be related to life changes or family dynamics.
Kendra Bradford LPC-MHSP (temp) ~ Professional Counselor Under Supervision
Kendra received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. She also has a Masters in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment and a Bachelors in Elementary Education. During her beginning years of being a teacher, Kendra noticed many of her students had dire emotional needs. She also encountered many parents giving all they had yet still feeling completely overwhelmed with the woes of raising children. She decided to pursue the field of counseling so she could develop a skillset to aid students, parents, and other stakeholders in an educational setting. As she worked to obtain the needed internship hours to complete her counseling program, she developed a love for aiding individuals, families, and groups with the things they presented in therapy sessions. Kendra is passionate about aiding teenage and adult clients with the things that come up for them as they maneuver through their day to day lives by providing a welcoming, empathic space and an invitation to join them on their quest for healing. Kendra is skilled in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-concept/low self-esteem/low self-worth, parental woes, relationship difficulties, and traumatic issues. She enthusiastically meets clients where they are. Kendra wholeheartedly believes when people feel accepted and understood by another person, they become open to exploring ways their lives could be different and allow trusted individuals to join them as they explore.
When Kendra is not providing therapy, you can find her spending time with family and friends, riding roller coasters, playing sports, in a yoga class, reading, or writing. She also enjoys allowing her creativity to run free in many different capacities.
Caroline Cash, NCC, LPC-MHSP (Temp)
Sometimes, the pain and stressors of life become unbearable or just prevent us from living life to the fullest, and we are left trying to figure out how to navigate it all. Caroline is passionate about helping people experience true, lasting healing and become equipped with the tools and resiliency to navigate through life’s difficulties. She is a huge believer in the unique individuality of the therapeutic process and helps clients find what works best for them and their goals. Caroline works mostly with adolescents and adults of various backgrounds and struggles who are looking to find their way through difficulties such as anxiety, trauma, depression, relational difficulties, stressful thoughts and behaviors, finding purpose, existential doubt and questions, grief, and self-esteem/body image issues. Caroline implements an integrative, nervous-system-informed approach that focuses on helping clients effectively process difficulties and regulate their minds, bodies, and emotions in order to live a more enjoyable, manageable, and balanced life. Caroline also offers outdoor and equine-assisted therapy, knowing that time in nature and the relationship developed between a human and a horse are powerfully healing and insightful.
Caroline has completed TBRI Caregiver Training as well as trainings and workshops in the Neurosequential Model, Mindfulness Skills, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Experiencing, and Suicide Prevention and Intervention. She holds the NCC (National Certified Counselor) credential with the NBCC. She is also dual-certified in EAGALA.
In her free time, Caroline loves to spend time outdoors with her two horses and dogs, hanging out with friends, working with horses, being plugged into her community, listening to music, and occasionally doing artwork!
Upon the client's request, Caroline enjoys creating a safe space for people to find purpose and experience healing or deepening in their relationship with God.
Beth Colaric, LPC-MHSP(T)
Beth has completed Lipscomb University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Program. She has a B.A. in History, a Secondary Education Certificate, and a Juris Doctorate from Creighton University. She has also worked as an educator in secondary schools and has experience as a small business owner. Upon relocating to Tennessee, Beth made the heartfelt decision to dedicate herself to supporting and empowering individuals through counseling.
Beth is enthusiastic about working with clients of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. In addition to her master's program, she has an endorsement in play therapy from Lipscomb. Beth's approach is to meet people where they are and accompany them on life's journey, fostering growth and healing.
Beth finds joy in cherishing moments with her loving husband and beautiful children. She enjoys volunteering, traveling, watching YouTube videos, and playing with her Goldendoodles.
Ralph Cook, M. Ed., LMFT ~ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Ralph has worked as a Music Educator, Minister of Music, and Minister of Youth. After many years of teaching and church ministry, he felt called to work with families and individuals (both children and adults) in the area of counseling. Ralph has a B.S. in Music Education and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership. He obtained his Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tennessee. Ralph and his wife, Joni, founded Lantern Lane Farm Counseling in 2004. Ralph is the CEO and Clinical Director of LLF. In addition to counseling, he serves as a consultant to area churches and provides workshops and seminars to churches and other organizations. He also leads Marriage Intensives for couples. Ralph has worked with couples who come to LLF for Marriage Intensives from across the nation. He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, and an AAMFT Clinical Fellow.
Ralph and Joni have two sons and five grandchildren. He loves movies, music, spending time with his wife and family and is an avid fan of John Grisham books.
Nick Cutler, MA ~ Professional Counselor Under Supervision
Nick received his Master of Arts in Counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary. He has a heart to work with children and teens that have experienced grief or trauma. He has worked with families experiencing crisis and is passionate about helping individuals process the confusing and chaotic emotions that come through these experiences. Nick is excited by any opportunity to help someone explore the emotional world, and his deep love for people results in an honest and caring approach to therapy.
When Nick is not doing therapy, you can find him trail running and hiking in the woods or playing sports. Nick loves being active, listening and occasionally playing music, meeting new people and spending time in his community.
Jacob Dye, LPC/MHSP, Board Approved Supervisor
Jacob received his Master’s of Science degree in Professional Counseling from Lipscomb University in 2012 and joined Lantern Lane Farm Counseling in 2013. He is deeply passionate about helping teenagers, adults, and couples discover healing and their life’s purpose. Jacob frequently works with people who are experiencing addiction, anxiety, depression, eating disorders (including chronic over-eating), relationship difficulties, spiritual issues, and low self-esteem/lack of personal direction. Jacob is always eager to connect with people wherever they are in life, and he does so with warmth and understanding, no matter their background or past experiences. His passion is to empower his clients with knowledge and skills that will allow them to find long-term success and healing. Jacob embraces a diverse counseling approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral, Existential, Solution-focused, and Gestalt Therapeutic techniques.
Jacob is a local who grew up just a mile or so away from the farm! He has a strong passion for promoting healthy living and has been a personal trainer and health coach for over six years. During his free time, he enjoys activities such as running, competitive weightlifting, listening to music, reading, and traveling.
Anjelica Farino, MMFT~ Marriage & Family Therapist Under Supervision
Anjelica feels called to walk alongside adolescents, young adults, and women, helping them navigate the highs and lows of life and addressing the root of issues they face. She enjoys working with a variety of populations that encounter issues of anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, life transitions, eating disorders, relationship concerns, grief, and more because she believes anyone can experience true healing and wholeness where love and safety are present. Anjelica has experience in youth ministry, horsemanship, and counseling with individuals and groups. She is passionate about incorporating a connection with horses into her sessions. Her hope is that clients will grow, receive lasting freedom, and ultimately develop a closer relationship with God.
Anjelica has a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Geneva College in her hometown of Pittsburgh, PA. In her spare time you can find Anjelica worshipping with her church family, riding horses, or sipping coffee with friends.
Paige Clayton Greene, MA ~ Professional Counselor Under Supervision
Paige received a Master’s of Arts degree from Liberty University in Professional Counseling. She came to love the setting and people at Lantern Lane Farm Counseling during her internship and is thrilled to be a counselor at this peaceful place.
She is passionate about helping women walk through the difficult journeys of divorce, anxiety, depression, grief and other issues women face. She works with adolescent girls and adult women to help them regain or establish self-esteem and identity utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy. She seeks creative ways to help each unique client reach their personal goals for therapy.
Paige is originally from the mountains of North Carolina. She enjoys writing, traveling, spending time with family and friends, singing with her tiny band and can often be found outdoors hiking or running on outings with her dog Ruby.
Jeff Gregg, MMFT- Marriage and Family Therapist Under Supervision
We all feel emotions such as shame, anxiety, fear, and anger. How we deal with these feelings can often hurt more than help. Jeff desires to walk alongside clients and help them identify and deal with emotions and feelings healthily. He is eager to help clients find solutions and set attainable goals that lead to happiness, success, and healthy relationships.
Jeff began his career in the entertainment business and spent over three decades guiding the careers of some of the biggest names in show business. Through his therapy journey, he discovered the healing power of the therapeutic process. He desires to work with others as they uncover the positive change therapy offers.
Jeff earned an undergraduate degree in business from Aquinas College, an MBA from Amberton University, and a Master of Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University. Jeff resides in Donelson, where he is very involved in the community. He loves old cars and likes to take his 72 Chevy Truck for a spin on Sunday afternoons.
Michelle Harris, LMFT ~ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, wife, and mom to three kids, Michelle Harris knows how fulfilling and challenging marriage and family life can be. Michelle has a passion for strengthening individuals, marriages, and families. She believes that healthy individuals build healthy marriages, and healthy marriages build healthy families that contribute to a healthier community. It is a privilege to walk alongside clients as they heal, repair, and build healthier relationships with themselves and others. Michelle received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Olivet Nazarene University and went on to work with postpartum mothers and families for IU Health in Indiana for five years. Michelle then received her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Indiana Wesleyan University. She has over ten years of experience in the therapy field.
Michelle specializes in perinatal and postpartum issues, women’s issues, couples therapy, and premarital counseling utilizing Prepare/Enrich. Michelle draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Experiential Therapy, and Gottman techniques to tailor therapy to your specific needs. You will find Michelle helping clients through life transitions, including premarital therapy utilizing Prepare/Enrich, adjustment to parenthood, and perinatal and postpartum issues. Michelle also works with clients who are proactively working to strengthen their marriages and couples who are pursuing healing from infidelity and betrayal. You will also find her working with women ages 18 and up as they wrestle through different life seasons, challenges, and triumphs. She is passionate about helping women secure their identity in Christ first and foremost so they are anchored securely no matter what comes their way.
Michelle is available to speak and teach for MOPS groups and church groups and has led Enneagram and team-building trainings for large network marketing teams. Michelle exhibits many traits of an Enneagram 8 with a Type 9 wing. However, she always reminds clients that personality tests are a tool, as she believes your identity is rooted in Christ and not in a label. You will find her to be caring and empathetic but she will also challenge you in the therapy process when appropriate.
Michelle works in-office on Mondays and Tuesdays only, because the rest of the week she is home with her three kids. Michelle loves long walks and runs with her husband, traveling with her husband and kids, reading, spending time with family and friends, game nights, college football, cheering her kids on at their baseball and softball games, and anything that involves sunshine and water.
Joshua Hawkins, MA - Pre-Licensed Counselor Under Supervision
Joshua Hawkins began working at Lantern Lane Farm as an intern and progressed to a full-time therapist following graduation from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary’s Master of Christian Counseling program. He believes in a client-focused and integrative approach to helping his clients. He supports clients as they navigate a variety of life stressors. His primary focus is on the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Joshua primarily enjoys working with children and adolescents but takes on clients from the age of 5 years old to 40 years old. Joshua employs Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Brainspotting to help clients achieve their therapy goals.
In his free time, Joshua enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants and recipes, building LEGO sets, and relaxing at home with his wife and three black cats.
Alyssa Hinesley, LPC-MHSP, AS ~ Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa received her Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and has been practicing for over a decade. She is also an approved clinical supervisor. Alyssa specializes in codependency and helps both women and couples implement boundaries to create healthy relationship dynamics. She has an emphasis in blended family and co-parenting work. Alyssa works extensively with women, helping them find healing, specifically in the treatment of grief, narcissistic abuse, divorce, phase of life adjustment, and codependency recovery.
Most days, Alyssa brings her Golden Doodle, Bella. Bella serves as an emotional support animal (ESA) in sessions for clients.
Together, Alyssa and her husband have 5 children. In her spare time, she enjoys working out with her husband, drinking coffee, and spending time with her family. She would say, “Counseling is her calling, fitness is her hobby, and Biblical literacy is her passion.”
Kate Jackson, MS ~ Professional Counselor Under Supervision
Kate believes that people are created for relationship, and that healing happens in genuine connection with others. She takes a holistic approach by considering the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person to determine the core issue beyond the symptoms. Kate enjoys working with children, teens, and women with body image concerns, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, trauma, and autism. Kate uses experiential activities during sessions including play therapy, expressive arts, equine therapy, and being outdoors.
Kate likes trying new foods, gardening, testing recipes, homesteading, and going on outdoor adventures. Kate also has a love for entrepreneurship and is often brainstorming business ideas with her husband and encouraging others to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams.
Kate holds a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Play Therapy Specialization from Lipscomb University. She is working towards licensure to become a Licensed Professional Counselor.
Brandie Jones, MMFT ~ Marriage and Family Therapist Under Supervision
Brandie received her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University. She also has a Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Organizational Leadership. Brandie changed career paths to become a counselor, recognizing the importance of helping others create space to identify and embrace their true selves. Brandie frequently works with people who are experiencing suicidal ideations, depression, grief, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and those struggling with sexual orientation, using a cognitive and dialectical behavioral approach coupled with Narrative and Solution Focused Therapy while considering Attachment Theory. Brandie is passionate about working with adults and couples. She is working towards becoming a Gottman Certified Therapist to assist couples in creating greater meaning and connection in their relationships. She also has specialized training in Prepare/Enrich for couples preparing for marriage or working towards healing and personal growth together. Brandie also devotes her time to developing and leading workshops to help young people rehabilitate their lives and move away from a life of crime.
Brandie grew up in West Tennessee, where she enjoyed sports, especially baseball, basketball, and football. She also enjoys outdoor activities, trying new foods, traveling, collecting sneakers, and spending time with family and friends.
Kenya Kilpatrick, MMF- Marriage and Family Therapist Under Supervision
Kenya Kilpatrick graduated from Tennessee State University with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She then went on to achieve a master’s degree in Counseling with a specialization in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling.
She started off her career with Youth Villages working with youth facing a wide range of emotional, mental, and behavioral problems, youth receiving foster care services, and biological families with youth receiving foster care services. She also works with the Youth Advocate Program advocating and delivering evidence-based services in homes and communities as an alternative to youth incarceration, congregate child welfare, behavioral health, intellectual disabilities placements, and neighborhood violence.
In her free time, Kenya loves traveling, spending time with family, and watching a good movie. Kenya also enjoys hosting yearly marriage retreats for couples of all ages and stages in their relationship.
Sarah Long, MMFT - Marriage and Family Therapist Under Supervision
Sarah has a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University and BA in Child and Family Studies from Baylor University. She is also working towards becoming a Registered Play Therapist and enjoys working with children, adolescents, and their families. She uses a variety of therapeutic tools including: play therapy, IFS (Internal Family Systems), Narrative Therapy, and art.
It is her goal to provide a safe space for children and adolescents to navigate all that life brings, begin to recognize their inherent goodness and worth, and find emotional well-being. She believes that play and art can foster healing and growth. She considers it an honor to walk alongside children and partner with parents as they journey through the highs and lows of life.
In her free time, Sarah loves to paint, read, listen to music and hangout with her dog Penny. She is a firm believer that light and goodness can be found in any situation and that laughter is a powerful thing.
Megan Neal, MFT
Megan graduated from the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with her Masters in Marriage and Family Counseling and is certified in Art Therapy. She believes in a whole-person integrative therapy approach that addresses the client's mind, body, and spirit. Megan believes that hope is for everyone who desires it and is willing to walk toward it. She is honored to work with clients ages 12 and up as well as women who need support through pain, grief, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, trauma, purity culture effects, life transitions, pre-marital, blended family challenges, divorce, loss, boundaries, parenting, co-parenting, conflict resolution, identity, goal-setting, and more.
Megan has been trained in many interventions and modalities, including but not limited to Art Therapy, CBT, EFT, brain-spotting, and adventure therapy. Megan feels strongly that every person is unique and, therefore, therapy is unique to that person.
She enjoys all things outdoors, spending time with her own blended family, traveling, creativity, and any opportunity for humor.
Kelli Oerman, MA - Professional Counselor Under Supervision
Kelli received her master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Crown College in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota. Kelli is passionate about helping individuals who struggle with depression, grief, anxiety and addiction, as well as relationship and self-esteem issues. She also enjoys working with children, couples, and military families. She uses a variety of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, and experiential activities that include play, art and equine-assisted therapy. She also utilizes Brainspotting to help people process and heal from trauma.
Kelli grew up in an Air Force family and lived in many places including Seoul, South Korea, and Munich, Germany. Along the way, those experiences taught her perseverance and adaptability, as well as insight and empathy for people of different backgrounds and cultures and their varying life circumstances.
Kelli and her husband have a grown son they enjoy visiting in their native state of Nebraska. In her free time, Kelli enjoys studying the Bible, crafting, watching British mysteries, and cuddling up with their two pugs, Bruce and Lulu.
Tiffany Orrand, LPC-MHSP, RPT ~ Licensed Professional Counselor and Play Therapist
Tiffany is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. Her heart is happiest while working with children and preteens 13 and under. She has specialized training and certification to help with youth experiencing anxiety and anxiety related disorders, such as OCD, trichotillomania, and excoriation. She also has experience helping children navigate the changes of life related to moving, parent’s divorce, self-esteem, depression and growing up. She uses a variety of therapeutic techniques including: play therapy, a variety of cognitive behavioral therapies, and experiential and creative techniques. She became a counselor to give children a safe space, where they can explore hard issues and learn what it means to love and be kind to themselves. She feels blessed to walk beside children and families as they navigate these difficult times in their lives.
Tiffany grew up in middle Tennessee and enjoys spending time with her family and pets during her free time. She is a child at heart and loves reading, superheroes, Harry Potter, Chuck Taylor shoes, American Girl, animals, and Netflix.
Anna Partlow, LPC-MHSP - Licensed Professional Counselor ~Equine Specialist
Anna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-MHSP). Combining her passion for people and horses, she majored in Equestrian Sciences and has completed training with EAGALA as an Equine Specialist. She primarily works with teens and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness, relational struggles, and more. She loves walking with people as they discover more about themselves as they work to overcome challenges and experience healing. Anna is also a certified PREPARE/ENRICH Facilitator and is honored to work with couples in all stages to help foster resilient relationships and strengthen marriages.
When there is free time, you might find Anna reading, crafting, or walking her huskies.
Barry Paquet, MAC-Addiction Counselor Under Supervision
Barry is originally from Mackinaw City, Michigan and a Nashville transplant by way of joining the military. He is a 6-year Army Veteran. Barry graduated with his Master’s Degree in Addiction Counseling from Liberty University. He aims to become a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor as he is currently under supervision.
Barry believes in helping develop the coping skills needed in order to learn change in areas such as behavior and addiction, narrative thinking, and emotional regulation. His goal is to be able to connect in a trusting and empathetic way with his clients. His clinical interest includes chemical addiction such as alcohol & drug use as well as issues related to substance use. He uses a variety of therapeutic techniques including: Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. His experience in the Army and throughout life has shown him that when people are feeling at their lowest, there will always be someone who cares to sit and listen to their story.
During his free time Barry enjoys self-care such as working out, spending time with his wife and their dog Karl, watching movies, writing poetry (check out his book on Amazon- Words Flow Like Water), and enjoying the warm weather on the boat.
Jason Pawlik, LPC-MHSP ~ Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason is very compassionate about helping people with addictions, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, relational conflicts, and behavioral problems. Jason received his Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University in 2012. After that, he began his career as a therapist and has helped individuals with addiction, PTSD, compulsive behaviors, trauma, relational conflict, and depression. He promotes a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment utilizing a variety of therapeutic interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral, Transactional Analysis, Solution Focused, and Mindfulness-based Techniques.
Jason is also a volunteer firefighter for the city of Watertown, which furthers his genuine desire to help other first responders cope with daily stress and trauma. Before earning his master's degree, he received a Bachelor of Science in Health and Wellness at S.U.N.Y. Buffalo, where he developed a passion for helping individuals attain personal health and fitness goals through personal training. Jason promotes healthy living through healthy eating habits and fitness. He enjoys spending time with his family, CrossFit with his wife, watching his daughter cheer, and his son playing baseball.
Taryn Peterson, LMFT ~ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Taryn received her Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University. She counsels a diverse range of clients, including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Taryn considers it an honor to walk alongside hurting people as they face trauma, grief, anxiety, addiction, self harm, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and other challenges.
Taryn is trained in Brainspotting and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), methods known for their effectiveness in treating trauma and PTSD. She also incorporates methods such as Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. She is passionate about the hope and healing clients experience through the therapeutic process. Outside of the office, Taryn enjoys hiking, road trips, horses, and exploring landscape photography with her husband.
Brett Rutledge, MMFT~ Marriage and Family Therapist Under the Supervision of Lindsey Castleman License #1268
Brett graduated with his undergraduate degree at The University of Alabama in Public Relations & Communications. After college he moved to Nashville to pursue songwriting and worship leading. Brett has been writing songs and leading worship since high school and had a dream to write songs for a label. That came true when Brett signed to write at Word in 2013.
With his dad and uncle being a part of National Championships at Alabama playing football, he was pushed into sports at a young age and enjoys competition. He excelled in tennis and played in college. Brett has over 20 years of ministry/worship experience. He’s been a part of leading youth groups and young professionals groups. Sitting with students and people in ministry has led Brett to a passion for counseling. Brett graduated with his Masters in Marriage & Family Therapy at Trevecca Nazarene University.
Brett hopes to sit with people (teens, college, young professionals, & couples) in their pain & be a respite for those needing rest. He would love for them to experience Lantern Lane as a place where they can come as they are and feel known, accepted, and cared for. In Brett’s spare time you can find him playing pickleball, disc golf, watching football, or literally just trying to compete in anything. He loves being active and operates as an Enneagram 7 always looking for adventure. He loves to travel and looking for new experiences is a must.
Audrey Shinar, LPC- MHSP
Audrey steadfastly believes that anyone can heal when sufficiently supported in a counseling relationship. Audrey is passionate about cultivating an accepting, confidential, therapeutic environment with space for tears, laughter, and authentic connection. Audrey has met many resilient adolescents and adults through her prior work as a Behavioral Specialist at the Partial Hospitalization level of care with individuals with OCD, Eating Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
Audrey is a native Nashvillian who holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and History from Vanderbilt University, making her a “Double Dore!”
Audrey is trained in Exposure and Response Prevention, Behavioral Activation, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. Audrey incorporates elements of experiential therapy when appropriate, including art and creative modalities, self-compassion work, and mindfulness into the therapeutic space. Audrey is passionate about helping adults and adolescents with anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, perfectionism, and highly sensitive people. In her free time, Audrey can be found practicing hot yoga, reading outside, walking her Golden Retriever, and watching historical dramas.
Christine Snipes - LPC-MHSP, Natural Lifemanship Level 1
Christine received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in 2018 and received training in trauma-focused modalities, as well as EAGALA and Natural Lifemanship, where she incorporates horses into her therapeutic practice. She's learned that horses have an incredible ability to help clients connect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems, and develop an experiential understanding on healthy relationships with attachment and detachment with the equine partner.
Christine is deeply passionate about creating a safe, trusting, and compassionate space for clients. She enjoys working with adult women with a variety of issues, including trauma, spiritual abuse, identity development, and relationships. She deeply cares about the well-being of her clients, and her hope is that they feel supported with tools and practices that help them experience lasting change, deeper connection, and intimacy with themselves, others, and God.
In her spare time, Christine spends time with the people and animals she loves. She loves Jesus, fitness, being outside and connecting with the beauty of nature, good food, coffee, adventures, and creativity.
Cindy Thompson, MA/EAMH, LPC under supervision ~ Equine Assisted Mental Health concentration. Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning TF-EAP (Certification Process)EAGALA certified. Brain Spotting (Level 1), S.A.F.E. EMDR, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Trauma Play
Cindy began with a BS in Special Education from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!). She taught children at Westminster School (now Currey Ingram) and Harpeth Junior High School. She became EAGALA certified and, 10 years later, graduated from Prescott College with a Master's in counseling and a concentration in Equine-Assisted Mental Health (EAMH). Cindy has chosen to walk beside young and middle-aged women as they find the answers to their pain and struggles.
One of the transformative tools Cindy employs is somatic and Attachment-Focused (S.A.F.E.) EMDR. This innovative approach combines one’s attachment style and somatic (body awareness) awareness with the constructs of EMDR. The insights gained from this method have the potential to significantly enhance one's ability to make healthier choices and foster personal growth. Equines assist clients in experiencing a shift in their hearts and bodies, allowing them to explore and adopt alternative approaches. EMDR explores the collaboration between individuals and equines in the context of relationships, facilitating clients in discovering their attachment style.
Cindy believes that most of our issues show up in relationships. We are created for relationships with self and others. Cindy combines S.A.F.E. EMDR, Brain Spotting, Natural Lifemanship, Trauma Focused-Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (TF-EAP) and Equine Assisted Learning (EAL), EAGALA, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Trauma Play, CBT, IFS, and other modalities to aid clients in finding relief from life hurts, suffering, and trauma. Cindy would be honored to walk with you on this healing journey as you experientially grow!
Cindy and her husband raised five children, and through her experiences, she realized she needed outside support, which began her journey thirty years ago. After receiving much personal healing, Cindy discovered her passion for walking alongside those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other challenging relational issues. She finds herself humbled and honored to be a part of other’s healing journey.
Kerri Tracy, LCSW ~ Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Kerri is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has a Master's of Social Work degree from Loma Linda University, California. She has been working with children and families for 15 years, with specialty experience in the areas of multidisciplinary early childhood intervention related to dysregulation/tantrums, attachment, trauma, autism and specialized parenting. She has experience supporting varying diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Kerri's passion is providing caregivers with strategies to improve their interactions with young children (ages 0-7). She is committed to looking at the whole picture of the family and the child. This includes seeing every possible area of their life as a strength to build upon.
Niki Truelove
Niki graduated from Union University with undergraduate degrees in both Psychology and Social Work. After earning her bachelor's degrees, Niki worked in various social service settings that included foster care, domestic violence, and child abuse prevention. Through these experiences, she developed a passion for working with children and families.
Niki is currently pursuing a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. She believes in the mind and body connection when dealing with life issues or trauma. Her goal is to be able to connect with clients by being client-centered and walk beside them through their journey towards healing.
In her spare time, Niki enjoys spending time with her family, reading a good book, watching movies and anime.
Tony Wakefield, MA
Tony graduated with a Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling from Messiah University. He has an undergraduate degree in Accounting from Lipscomb University and a master’s in business administration from Tennessee Technological University. He worked in business for over 20 years and was a Family Life Pastor for 15 years. He is passionate about helping couples, families, and individuals become unstuck, heal from trauma, and be resilient through life’s challenges and disappointments. His personal journey of healing for over 30 years from family and relational trauma informs his person-centered approach to empathy, understanding, and a genuine connection with people. His therapeutic approaches include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman, and Structural Family Therapy. He believes everyone can heal to live from whom they were created to be. One of his guiding values is to seek and pursue authentic relationships with himself, God, and others.
Tony enjoys deep conversations with his wife of 45 years, spending time with his four granddaughters and their parents, reading history and historical fiction, and watching sports of all kinds. He loves the Titans and Preds, is a long-suffering University of Louisville fan, and plays terrible but hopeful golf.
Rachel Williams, LMFT ~ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Rachel is a Nashville native and loves calling Middle TN her home. She completed her undergraduate and graduate work at Trevecca Nazarene University. With a background in journalism, she truly enjoys connecting with others stories and has a deep appreciation for how family heritage influences personal identity and relationships.
Rachel strives to bring hope and empowerment to her clients as they unpack life’s challenges and joys, relationships, spirituality, identity, and personal beliefs. While having excellent experience working with many different subject matters, she especially enjoys working with women's issues and career-oriented individualsas they explore ways to balance all of life's demands while maintaining a strong sense of self.
Clients can expect sessions with Rachel to have a directive, client-centered approach to identify strengths and growth areas that impact personal beliefs, relationship dynamics, and goals. Sessions will focus on solutions to help clients feel unstuck, a holistic outlook on all aspects of an individual, and finding meaning and acceptance of life’s experiences.
Rachel is married to her husband Blake, and they have an energetic toddler that keeps them on their toes! When she isn't in the office she enjoys hiking, traveling to National Parks, baking, and doing home improvement projects.
Tom Yarbrough, LMFT ~ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Tom has a BBA from Belmont University and a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University. He is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and enjoys working with adult individuals, couples, and families. Tom believes in the value of experiencing connection within relationship as it relates to individual change and hopes to serve clients by helping them identify and modify negative cycles of interaction to allow for growth and healing.
A Nashville resident for nearly 30 years, Tom spent the first part of his career in the business world but currently oversees congregational care at his church when he is not seeing clients at the farm. He loves spending time with his wife and their three kids, reading and collecting books and traveling.