Megan Sparks, MS, LPC

Clinical Director, York

Hi! Everyone has their struggles. It's my hope to be able to work collaboratively to help find the strength you already had within yourself to grow to your fullest potential and work through some of life's challenges. Building rapport is essential. I enjoy working with a diverse population. I have worked extensively with young children, preteens, teens, and parents for the past 8 years. I also have experience helping adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and trauma.

My areas of specialty include: Trauma and sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, child & family relational issues, domestic violence, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, children's behavioral issues, and play therapy for children.

I provide a warm and inviting space for both children and adults. You can find a homelike space that provides a comforting environment for you to work through life's challenges. Children can also find a playful space that allows them to express themselves in a safe and relaxing playroom.

I look forward to hearing from you and being able to help you make mindful changes to a positive recovery.

Melissa M. Whitman, MA, LPC

Clinical Director, Lancaster

Hello and Welcome! I am so glad that you are considering taking a step forward on a journey of introspection, growth, and healing for yourself and your relationships. I believe there are times in life in which everyone needs help. I recognize reaching out is not always an easy step. I offer a safe and comfortable environment for you to be yourself without judgement. I have been in the helping profession for over 13 years, working with children/teens, adults, and families.

I completed my education through Millersville University and Liberty University. I am licensed in the state of PA. I consider myself an eclectic therapist, pulling from a variety of models of therapy that best helps you feel successful and meet your goals. Some of these models include, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy, person-centered, and attachment therapy. I specialize in working with individuals who experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, spiritual concerns, relationship stressors, and other traumas. I have advance training in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) which assists you in reprograming negative cognitions and traumatic memories to significantly reduce symptoms associated with PTSD and other trauma disorders.

In working alongside families, I am certified in ESFT (Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy). This model of treatment focuses on helping families identify their negative patterns of interacting with one another and coaching the family how to interrupt these patterns to create, new healthy relationships. I strongly believe success in having a healthier family starts with giving every family member an opportunity to have an equal voice. I would like to assist in helping your family learn how to communicate and listen to one another more effectively

Whatever your challenges are, I want to work collaboratively with you to help you succeed in living your best life and having the best relationships.

Caitlin Chubb, MS, LPC

Clinical Supervisor

“the art of happiness is also the art of suffering well.”
― Thích Nhất Hạnh

Hello! There are times in everyone’s life that things can be overwhelming, exhausting, frustrating and sometimes unbearable or hopeless. If you’re here, you’re already considering change and are taking some brave steps toward that. I know how hard and how much courage starting that journey of self-discovery and wellness can be. For those I have the honor of joining on their journey, I will help walk alongside you through the “mud” of life and help you build your life worth living.

My passion is working with adolescents and adults to help them understand themselves more fully, wholeheartedly and bravely. Throughout your journey I will walk alongside you and we will explore how your past life experiences have impacted you. My strengths lie in trauma, relationships and grief and loss.

I received my Masters of Clinical Psychology from Millersville University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. My work over the years has included child/adolescent and adult therapy with high conflict families, mood disorders, relationships and trauma. I have worked with populations from age 5 through adulthood, in individual, group, partial, inpatient, residential and family therapy settings. My treatment focus has supported clients and families working to build emotional intelligence, communication skills, coping strategies to mitigate stressors and improve relational dynamics. In addition to this, I have received advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT-Informed), Collaborative Law, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, TEAM CBT, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention and Sanctuary Model.

Kathy D. Richardson, PhD, NCC, LPC, RPT-S

Hi! My goal as a clinician is to build a warm, safe, and trusting relationship to allow individuals, couples, and families space to grow into their fullest potential. I view counseling as an opportunity to identify and build on strengths, with a focus on the whole person: mind, body, and spirit; rather than as a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. I have over 20 years of experience working with people of all ages, with a variety of issues and concerns. I believe that everyone has the potential for health and happiness; my role is to accompany you on that journey.

I am trained to utilize expressive therapies in conjunction with talk therapy to help people find ways to better articulate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. As a Registered Play Therapy - Supervisor (RPT-S), I have extensive experience utilizing play and sand therapies to address numerous life issues such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.

I completed my PhD at Loyola University of Maryland. My studies helped me to integrate my experience with a strong theoretical orientation in wellness. If you are interested in becoming more mindful and self-compassionate, and would like to learn ways to live a full, purposeful, and joyful life, please contact me. I would love to help you on that path.

Kara Allnutt, MA, NCC, LMFT

Hello! Do you find that you are struggling to find ways to communicate with your child? Do you feel that you just haven’t found a therapist that “clicks” with your child’s and your family’s needs? Or perhaps that daily stress just seems to put a strain on your emotional health? If this sounds too familiar, you might just be in the right place

As a marriage and family therapist, I believe in the importance of relationships and healthy communication. I work on building a friendly, fun, trusting atmosphere with the children, teens, and families that I work with, where you can be creative and uninhibited. I love to play, laugh, and joke with you, as I find that real emotional healing happens when we can be naturally ourselves and feel comfortable in growing and learning how to express ourselves more genuinely.

My approach to therapy is integrative and emotion focused. I have a license in Marriage and Family Therapy and an M.A. in Counseling from Messiah College. I have experience working with all ages and backgrounds and I am most passionate about helping families, teenagers, adolescents and children. I have spent about 6 years working directly in schools and in homes. I have found that I am able to get through to many teens and adolescents who have previously not been very engaged in therapy, and I have experience in helping individuals work through family relational problems, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ODD, trauma, sexual abuse, and Mood Disorders.

I look forward to meeting you and helping you develop happier relationships!

Carolyn DeMarra, MS, LPC

Hello and welcome! I know how difficult and scary it can be to take that first step towards making positive, lasting changes when life feels overwhelming or hopeless. When you are ready, I would be honored to walk beside you on that journey. Are you looking to improve your relationships, experiencing a stressful event, or need some guidance with making important life choices? I am here to provide support and work with you as a collaborative partner.

I received my master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Millersville University and am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. I am also a Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) and have over 8 years of experience working with adults who have sustained physical and cognitive changes as a result of car accidents, falls, and other traumatic events. In addition, I have also worked with both adults and adolescents to address a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, gender related issues, and general life adjustments. While I most commonly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I also emphasize the importance of mindfulness and self-care throughout the therapeutic process.

I look forward to hearing from you and sharing in your experience of growth and self-discovery!

Sarah Falkson, MA, LPC, NCC

Hello and welcome! I applaud your courage at considering counseling, and I am fully aware of how many emotions can go along with this decision. Please know you are not alone in this journey. My view of the therapeutic relationship is one in that safety and security is of the utmost importance, and that it is only through this creation of trust that other issues can then be faced.

I completed my Masters in Counseling Degree at Immaculata University in Malvern, PA, and I am licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist (CCTS). I have been working in the mental health field for over fifteen years, working in a variety of roles. I specialize in helping individuals who have experienced complex traumas; specifically, attachment traumas and various types of abuse, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I also have a special interest in working with individuals who have aged out of the foster care/group home/social services system.

I primarily operate from a Psychodynamic/Systemic framework and believe that our interpersonal interactions largely overlap and can be influenced from a variety of factors. I am trained (Level I) in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and utilize this and other short term dynamic psychotherapy approaches as well. Above all, my goal is to accompany you on your journey and offer support and guidance in a collaborative manner to promote rapid healing and empowerment in a way that feels right for you.

I very much look forward to working with you. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask!

Jessica Fry, MS, LPC

Welcome, I’m so glad you’re here! Life can become overwhelming and at times lead us to feeling lost, drained and hopeless. I believe that self-care is a huge component to navigating life’s stressors. My approach as a therapist is to support you in identifying your strengths and building upon them to find a sense of direction, hope and peace. I am a Licensed Therapist in the state of Pennsylvania and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. I enjoy helping clients develop skills for achieving goals of change and growth and guide you through this process collaboratively.

I most commonly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while adopting other evidenced- based approaches and emphasizing the importance of both self-care and healthy relationships. I specialize in helping individuals with overall stress, anxiety, relationship stressors, disordered eating, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Whatever life has thrown your way, I am here to let you know you don’t have to face it alone

I look forward to meeting you and working with you!

Mike G. McGuinness, MA, Ed.S., LPC, NCC

Hello! I strive to establish a welcoming and trusting connection with individuals and families searching for solutions to daily life challenges. I see counseling as a team effort between every unique client and clinician to create goals which treat the whole person, strengthening personal and social skills. I have years of experience in a variety of outpatient settings working with children/adolescents, adults, and families. Each person can benefit from counseling, including the therapist, and I am eager to learn your story so we can create healthy, lasting changes.

I utilize a variety of therapies which focus on addressing thoughts and behaviors together,

typically through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as Motivational Interviewing

(MI) strategies to better determine the best course of counseling for individuals experiencing

anxiety, depression, grief and loss, previous trauma, and behavioral challenges. My background

in music has also allowed me to join aspects of artistic expression to therapeutic practices,

supporting a client’s ability to link emotions and internal dialogue to songs, lyrics, and other

forms of art. Additionally, I attempt to weave humor into my therapy as I believe therapy should

be a positive experience that can be an enjoyable part of the week for everyone.

I hold a license in Professional Counseling in Pennsylvania, am recognized as a Nationally

Board Certified Counselor, and have recently gained my Educational Specialist I certificate for

school guidance. I completed my education at Messiah University, earning an MA degree in

Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in School

Counseling. My studies have allowed me to gain a broad understanding of the needs presented

by each client and student, and I thrive on the successes of every individual I can serve.

I am excited to connect with you and share in this experience toward new beginnings

Ruth O'Gara, LCSW

Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with six years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am glad that you are taking the first step towards finding support – sometimes that can be the hardest part.

I earned my Masters of Social Work from the University of Denver in Colorado and have provided outpatient therapy in a variety of settings. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting challenges and family conflict. I am comfortable working with individuals from childhood through adulthood, as well as families.

I will work with you to create an authentic and down to earth space where you feel comfortable sharing about your past and your present and beginning to move towards change. I will be your partner in considering new perspectives, learning new tools for coping, and uncovering the solutions that you already possess. I use techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and strategic family therapy. I also integrate art and play into sessions when appropriate. My goal is that you leave each session feeling empowered and optimistic about your journey.

I wish you all the best and hope we have a chance to connect.

Jennifer VanEeden, MS, LPC

Hello! As a therapist, I strive to create a safe space where my clients feel heard, respected and empowered as they work towards achieving their goals. I help individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and promote self-awareness and insight. I walk alongside my clients as they explore how their thoughts, feelings, and actions may be impacting their experiences, and support them in making positive changes along the way.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I utilize a holistic approach to counseling and am trained in several empirically supported modalities including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy

I offer inclusive and affirming counseling and specialize in transgender healthcare. I have worked extensively with the LGBTQIAP+ community and with their loved ones. I also have a background in helping clients with gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and stress.

I understand it takes courage to begin counseling and if you are ready to take the first step, I am here to support you along your journey! I look forward to hearing from you!

Shelby Wallick, LCSW

Welcome! As a therapist, I aim to create a safe and warm environment that allows each individual to deepen self-understanding and achieve their goals in therapy. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration between therapist and client to work toward change. It is my goal to walk alongside clients as they navigate the delicate balance of acceptance and change in their lives.

I have experience working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and relationship stressors. I consider myself to be eclectic in my therapeutic approach by utilizing techniques from different modalities to meet each client’s individual needs. I also have advanced training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

I look forward to connecting with you as you take this next step.

Helen L. Imel, MS, LPC

Practice Founder

Welcome! As a therapist I strive to build a warm, trusting therapeutic environment to help each client reach their own personal goals. I am a licensed therapist in the state of Pennsylvania with years of experience in helping clients with a variety of concerns.

I believe each individual has their own unique set of strengths and that therapy can help identify and develop those. As a therapist I understand that an individual's life challenges are personal and can often feel overwhelming. My goal is to help clients develop a "tool kit" of skills and strategies they can use to help manage those challenges.

Improving relationships is something I am passionate about and communication is often key to this improvement. I help my clients develop skills to effectively communicate their wants and needs and also to actively listen to the wants and needs of others. These skills help improve and strengthen life's relationships.

I look forward to hearing from you and working with you as you take the next step toward positive life changes.

Sean Cox, Intern

“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” -Viktor Frankl

Hello! If you’re reading this you are already taking courageous steps towards self-discovery, healing, and growth. My hope is to be your collaborator in devising ways to enact positive change and learn skills to cope with life’s challenges. In my clinical experience, I am exploring multiple treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy to be able to offer a variety of techniques to help individuals meet their goals. I am excited to be selected as the intern at Mindful Changes Counseling!

I received my undergraduate degree in Music Composition from Eastern University, and I am currently working to complete my Master’s Degree through Liberty University. Similar to my experience as a songwriter, I see the therapy room as a way for us to use the raw material of our experience to more fully understand where we have come from, what has brought us to therapy, and ultimately work towards a higher level of well being in the future.

I have a passion for working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I look forward to starting this journey with you.

Polar

Woof!

My name is Polar and I am so happy to meet you. I am a Facility dog that has been assigned to Mindful Changes Counseling with my handler Melissa. I have been in training since I was a puppy and am certified through United Disability Services (UDS) in Lancaster, PA. My favorite thing about helping clients is being a calming presence and making them smile. For some people when they have experienced really bad things or feel scared- I can help them feel safe again. My favorite interventions are snuggling, kisses, belly rubs, and “Saying Hello.” I look forward to helping you experience the emotions of joy, comfort, and unconditional love.