KOEN COUNSELING AND WELLNESS CENTER
FROM SURVIVING TO THRIVING
Dr. Nina Koen, LCSW
Title: Chief Executive Director & Therapist
Location: Herrin, IL, Telehealth
Contact: nina@koencwc.com
Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience providing counseling to adolescents and adults. At the end of 2021, I opened Koen Counseling and Wellness Center in response to the growing need for accessible mental health services and long waitlists for therapy. My goal has always been to create a safe, supportive space for healing.
My clinical focus includes working with individuals facing trauma, substance use, anxiety, and depression. I am trained in both EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting, which are highly effective approaches for trauma treatment and emotional regulation.
I obtained my Doctor of Social Work (DSW) from Barry University in August 2024. Through this advanced training, I’ve deepened my understanding of how the brain and body respond to stress and trauma—knowledge I actively integrate into my therapeutic approach.
Above all, I am passionate about walking alongside my clients as they do the hard work of healing. Therapy isn't easy—it takes courage to show up and face your pain—but it’s also powerful, life-changing work. And I’m honored to be part of that process.
Nikki Jeters, LCPC
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin, IL
My name is Nikki Jeters. I’m a wife and mother and love being active. I have my Master’s in Educational Psychology and graduated from Southern Illinois University. I have over 10 yrs of providing mental health and substance use therapy.
I am client centered and also use other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapies. I really enjoy helping my clients navigate through life and assist with problem solving and accomplishing goals. I believe you are the expert in your life and I am here to assist you in indentifying your needs and gaining confidence in executing tasks.
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Brenna Howerton, MSW, LSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin, & Telehealth
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Hello, I’m Brenna. In 2022, I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC). My journey in the behavioral health field is driven by a deep passion to help individuals not only survive but thrive. I believe that healing is built on a foundation of empathy, trust, and understanding, and it is truly a privilege to support my clients through their transformative journeys.
At the core of my practice is a commitment to providing client-centered, trauma-informed care. I believe that everyone has the right to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life, and my mission is to be a trusted partner in helping you achieve your goals. I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and challenges.
With professional experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Additionally, I am trained in Brainspotting, a powerful therapeutic tool that can help deepen the healing process.
Outside of work, I enjoy dancing, running with my dog, and the occasional video game.
I look forward to embarking on this journey with you toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Crystal Shulda, MSW, LCSW
Title: Clinical Director/Therapist
Location: Herrin and Telehealth
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Hello, I’m Crystal Shulda, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to helping individuals and families strengthen their bonds and overcome life’s challenges. My approach is rooted in compassion, with a focus on healing and recovery.
I have extensive experience providing trauma-informed therapy, counseling for substance use disorders, crisis intervention, and parent-and-youth-focused therapy.I specialize in Brainspotting and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), two powerful modalities that support deep healing from trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress.
I am committed to providing accessible and inclusive services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. One of my core strengths is my proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL). My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and affirming space where clients of all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow.​
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I also bring a deeply empathetic approach to therapy, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can heal and grow.
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I look forward to working with you on your journey to well-being.
Jason Palagi, MSW, LCSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin & Virtual
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Hello, I'm Jason Palagi, a social worker who works with individuals aged 16 and older. My therapeutic approach involves empathy, compassion, and a strong desire to foster positive change. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a robust and evidence-based therapy that helps clients process and overcome trauma.
I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can heal, grow, and achieve their personal goals. Whether addressing trauma, navigating life transitions, or managing mental health challenges, I am here to offer my support every step of the way.
Christopher Higdon, LCSW, ASAT-Candidate
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin & Virtual
Hello, my name is Christopher Higdon, MSW, LCSW, ASAT-Candidate. I have been working in the social work field since 2017 and bring experience across several areas of mental health, including crisis intervention, inpatient psychiatric care, harm reduction, and outpatient therapy. These experiences have helped shape my understanding of the complex challenges individuals and families face and guide how I approach therapy today.
In 2018, I completed the Trauma-Based Behavioral Health Fellowship through SIU School of Medicine, which focused on understanding trauma across the lifespan and its impact on individuals. I have since developed a specialization in working with couples and individuals impacted by intimacy disorders, focusing particularly on compulsive sexual behavior. I am currently pursuing my CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist) certification through the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP).
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In addition to my work with intimacy related concerns, I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and adjustment disorders. I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches in my work, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed treatment, and Gottman Method interventions for couples.
I primarily work with adults and couples, though I occasionally work with teenagers, particularly those in high school. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being open about their experiences. I strive to empower the individuals and couples I work with by helping them develop the tools needed to reclaim their sense of self, strengthen their relationships, and overcome barriers holding them back from living more fulfilling lives.
Lily Beers, LPC
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin & Virtual
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Hi, I'm Lily, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grace College. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and cultivate lasting emotional wellness. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences with support and guidance.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy in my counseling. I believe that effective therapy begins with a strong therapeutic relationship and a deep respect for each person’s unique journey. My approach is collaborative and individualized to each client. I work with clients to understand their goals, build on their strengths, and tailor treatment to support meaningful and holistic wellness.
Outside of my role as a therapist at Koen, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two cats, getting outside in nature, reading, and caring for my backyard chickens.
I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey toward healing and growth.
Jason Plichta, LPC
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin & Virtual
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My name is Jason and I am thrilled to be joining the Koen CWC family. I graduated with my masters in May 2024 and obtained my LPC in August 2024. I am interested in working with clients who have suffered trauma, and especially with first responders. I bring with me over 17 years of law enforcement experience, including one year working at a state-run juvenile prison. During my time as a police officer I have been involved in numerous things, including creating a therapy k-9 unit, the team coordinator for a county hostage/crisis negotiations team, a crash reconstructionist, a member of peer support teams, trained by the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation in individual and group debriefings, and even an instructor in schools on mental health.
I have been married to my wife Alexis for over 13 years and have a four-legged son named Gary. We are originally from the Chicagoland area, but moved to southern Illinois in 2018 to get away from the hustle and bustle that the north offered.
Again, I am excited to join this team and to work and learn alongside everyone. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you may have.
Amy Creek Koehn, LCPC
Title: Therapist
Location: Benton School District/ Herrin, IL
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a deep passion for helping individuals find their path to emotional well-being and personal growth. For over 13 years, I have been dedicated to serving the child welfare population, working with children, adolescents, and adults as they navigate a wide range of challenges.
My journey into the field of counseling began at McKendree University, where I earned my Master’s degree in Professional Counseling in December 2010. Throughout my career, I have developed a strong expertise in various areas of practice, with a focus on helping individuals manage depression, anxiety, trauma, and adjustment-related difficulties. It has been incredibly fulfilling to guide clients through the healing process, instilling a sense of security, hope, and empowerment as they move toward living more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
As a counselor, I am a firm believer in the importance of personal growth and lifelong learning. I remain committed to my own professional development by continually expanding my knowledge and therapeutic approaches to provide the highest quality of care. I am honored to be part of each client’s healing journey and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those seeking support, guidance, and transformation.
Victoria Moore
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin
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​I graduated with my Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Missouri Baptist University in 2024, after spending several years working in and around the counseling field. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in American Sign Language, which has deepened my ability to connect with individuals in unique and meaningful ways.
With over six years of professional experience and a lifelong passion for helping others, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults. My approach to counseling is client-centered—I believe in meeting each person where they are, creating a safe, supportive space, and tailoring therapy to fit their individual needs and goals.
Outside of the counseling room, I am a proud mother to my daughter and bonus mother to some amazing kids. When I’m not working, you can usually find me on the softball field, spending time with my children, or relaxing at home with my Frenchie.
I’m passionate about walking alongside others on their journey toward healing and growth, and I strive to help every client feel heard, valued, and supported.
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Sarah Burdick
Title:Therapist
Location: Herrin
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I decided I wanted to become a therapist when I was fifteen years old. My genuine love for people and passion for helping others live full, meaningful lives has guided me ever since.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where clients of all ages—children, adolescents, and adults—can feel safe, understood, and empowered to grow.
I earned my Bachelor of Psychology from Southeast Missouri State University in 2017 and completed my Master of Social Work at Walden University in 2020. I draw from evidence-based approaches and tailor my work to each individual’s needs, helping clients explore their emotions, develop healthier patterns, and move toward lasting change.
Above all, I believe in the strength and resilience within every person and consider it an honor to walk alongside clients on their healing journey.
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Kristen Caraker, MSW, PEL
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Title:Therapist
Location: Herrin
I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and hold a Professional Educator License (PEL). I also completed the Trauma-Based Behavioral Health Fellowship through SIU School of Medicine. I work with students and individuals, supporting emotional well-being and personal growth.
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I provide trauma-informed care and take a compassionate, strengths-based approach. I value building strong, collaborative relationships with clients, families, and support systems to create meaningful and lasting change.
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My areas of focus include emotional regulation, behavioral support, and helping individuals navigate challenges in their daily lives. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where each person feels heard, valued, and empowered.
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Hali Edgington-Sisco, MSW, LSW
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Title:Therapist
Location: Herrin
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Hi, I’m Hali, a Licensed Social Worker. I’m passionate about creating a space rooted in compassion, where you can feel safe, supported, and truly heard. Therapy can feel overwhelming to start, and my goal is to meet you where you are and walk alongside you at your own pace.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your individual needs. I draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to help you better understand your experiences, develop coping skills, and navigate challenges with greater confidence and clarity. I’m here to support you as you move toward healing and meaningful growth.