Dr. Nina Koen, LCSW
Title: Chief Executive Director & Therapist
Location: Herrin, IL, Telehealth
Payment: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, UHC, Healthlink, Deaconness, Illinois Medicaid, BCBS Community
Hi! Let me tell you a little bit about myself. I have approximately 17 years of experience in social work, providing counseling to adolescents and adults. At the end of 2021, I decided to open my own private practice to help fill the need of long waitlists for counseling services and that was the beginning of Koen Counseling and Wellness Center.
My areas of practice are with clients struggling with trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, and depression. I opened this private practice because there is a need for more counseling providers to help those looking for new ways to cope. I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting techniques as well.
In August 2021, I started attending Barry University to obtain my doctorate in Social Work. This has been my long-term goal that was completed in August 2024. During my doctorate classes, I have learned so much about how the brain functions and the body responds to stress and trauma.
I love supporting clients and being there for them when they are putting in the hard work to heal...yes, hard work. It isn't easy to show up as a client and work on yourself to heal.
Travis Dobrey, MSW, LCSW
Title: Director & Therapist
Location: Herrin, IL and Telehealth
Payment: Private pay, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UHC, Medicaid, & BCBS Community.
Hi and welcome, I am so excited to be here. I am a mental health therapist who specializes in trauma-informed care and I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. I am a member of the National Association of Social Work and a member of Phi Kappa Phi. I was accepted into SIU’s School of Medicine Trauma Based Behavioral Health Fellowship. As a fellow, I received extensive trauma informed training that I bring to my practice every day. I am also trained in EMDR and I am currently working toward EMDR certification, which means I have gone through additional extensive training.I view therapy as a partnership. I am currently accepting new patients and I look forward to helping you on your wellness journey. I can see you at our Herrin location or virtually through telehealth.
Nikki Jeters, LCPC
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin, IL
Payment: Private pay, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UHC, Health Link, Health Alliance, Medicaid, & BCBS Community.
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.
Brenna Howerton, MSW
Title: Therapist
Payment: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, & BCBS Community
Location: Herrin, & Telehealth
Hello! I’m Brenna and I enjoy dancing, going on runs with my dog, and the occasional video game. In 2022, I proudly earned my master’s degree in social work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC).
My journey in the behavioral health field is fueled by an unwavering passion to help individuals not just survive but thrive. I firmly believe that the path to healing is paved with the foundational stones of empathy, trust, and understanding. It’s a privilege to stand beside my clients on their transformative journeys.
At the heart of my practice lies a commitment to providing client-centered, trauma-informed services. I firmly believe that every person has the innate right to lead a meaningful, joyful life. My mission is to be your trusted companion, offering a listening ear and guidance to help you achieve your goals.
My professional experience extends across a wide spectrum, from working with young children to adolescents and adults. No matter your age or background, I’m here to tailor my approach to meet your unique needs and aspirations. I am trained in Brainspotting as well.
Let’s embark on this journey together toward a brighter and more fulfilling life.
Crystal Shulda, LSW
Title: Therapist
Payment: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, & BCBS Community
Location: Herrin and Telehealth
Crystal Shulda, LSW, is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Social Worker. Crystal is passionate about strengthening family bonds and helping her clients navigate the challenges they face. With a deep commitment to healing and recovery, Crystal brings years of experience in providing trauma-informed therapy, substance use disorders counseling, crisis intervention, and parent and youth focused therapy.
One of Crystal's standout attributes is her proficiency in American Sign Language, which allows her to bridge communication gaps and offer therapy services to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. This commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is a testament to her dedication to serving all individuals, regardless of their unique needs.
Crystal’s approach to therapy is deeply empathetic, creating a safe space for her clients to heal and grow. Crystal recently became trained in Brainspotting.
Kyle Miller, PhD, LCSW
Title: Therapist
Payment: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, UHC, Deaconess, Medicaid, BCBS Community.
Location: Herrin
My name is Kyle Miller and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my MSW from Southern Illinois University, as well as my PhD in Public Health. My passion is helping individuals identify their values, goals, and dreams, and then working together to create a life they want. My substance use work is grounded in harm reduction and moderation, recognizing that traditional recovery isn't the only option. Additionally, I work with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma through TF-CBT, EMDR, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I am currently accepting new patients at the Herrin location and look forward to working with you.
Mike Jackson, LSW
Title: Therapist
Payment: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, & BCBS Community.
Location: Herrin
Meet Mike Jackson, a compassionate Licensed Social Worker dedicated to making a positive impact in people's lives. Mike earned his Bachelor's and Master’s degrees in Social Work, with a minor in African American Studies, from the Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Currently pursuing his LCSW, Mike is committed to advancing his expertise to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
With a diverse background, Mike has cultivated invaluable experience across various social work settings. He began his career by serving in foster care, independent living, and group homes, as well as providing support to mentally ill patients in hospital settings. His passion for helping others extends beyond traditional methods, as he is also a certified dog trainer with a vision to integrate animal therapy into the field of social work.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Mike is an active member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. A.F. & A. M. from Pleiades #478 and Equality #2. He also dedicates his time to community service through his involvement with the Medinah Shriners, where he contributes to various initiatives benefiting both the local community and Shriners Hospital for Children. Mike's multifaceted background and commitment to service make him a valuable asset to any team dedicated to improving the well-being of others.
Jason Palagi, MSW
Title: Therapist
Payments: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, & BCBS Community.
Location: Herrin, virtual, & telehealth
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.
Leslie Jones, MSN
Title: Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Professional
Location: Herrin
Paymen
Leslie “Suzie” Jones is a dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her passion is to treat your overall health by providing quality mental health care that is tailored to meet each individual's specific needs.
Suzie has been in the Nursing field for over 20 years and has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She attended McKendree University for her BSN, University of Southern Indiana for her MSN, and Northern Kentucky University for her Post Masters Degree.
She treats a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and mood disorders for clients 18 and older. She will be offering some evening and weekend visits by appointment only.
Suzie has been married for over 25 years and is a mother to two grown children and furbabies. She enjoys reading and watching movies in her free time.
Amy Creek Koehn, LCPC
Title: Therapist
Location: Benton School District/ Herrin, IL
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a passion for helping others find their
path to emotional well-being and personal growth. Over the past 13 years, I've dedicated myself
to serving the child welfare population working with children, adolescents, and adults facing
various challenges.
My journey into the field of counseling began at Mckendree University, where I pursued my
Master's in professional counseling and graduated in December 2010. Throughout my career,
I've honed my skills and expertise in various areas of practice. I specialize in assisting
individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and adjustment challenges. Guiding
them through the healing process, fostering a sense of security and hope, and empowering them
to lead fulfilling lives has been immensely rewarding.
As a counselor, I firmly believe in the power of self-growth and lifelong learning. I remain
committed to my personal and professional development, constantly seeking new knowledge and
therapeutic approaches to enhance the effectiveness of my skills. I am humbled by the
opportunity to be a part of peoples healing journeys, and I look forward to continuing to make a
difference in the lives of individuals seeking support, guidance, and transformation.
Donna Burroughs, MSW, LSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Benton School District/ Herrin, IL
Hello! I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW). I obtained my Master's in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale while serving as a Trauma Fellow at the SIUC School of Medicine, where I acquired a comprehensive range of trauma-informed approaches.
I am passionate about advocating for children and assisting them to process their emotions and learn coping mechanisms for various life circumstances through trauma-informed techniques. I encourage children with positive affirmations to help motivate them and build their self-esteem while ensuring the clients are mentally and emotionally prepared for any additional obstacles.
Patrick Brown, LCSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Virtual Only
Payment: Private pay, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UHC, Aetna, Deaconess, Medicaid, & BCBS Community.
I'm Patrick, and I am dedicated to helping individuals recognize and optimize themselves to their full potential through self-empowerment.
I am a highly accomplished Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and obtained my Master's in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. My professional journey includes serving as a Trauma Fellow at the SIUC School of Medicine, where I honed a comprehensive repertoire of trauma-informed approaches. As the former clinical director at Brehm Preparatory School, I supported individuals facing complex learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, social/emotional issues, and other learning challenges. Furthermore, my tenure at Pasadena Villa Smoky Mountain Lodge has equipped me with invaluable experience catering to patients with high acuity needs and a wide array of complex diagnoses.
I am deeply committed to meeting clients' needs through a comprehensive, evidence-based approach that yields positive outcomes. Guided by client-centered philosophy, I implement a range of best practice therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing. By utilizing these approaches, I strive to empower individuals on their path to growth and well-being.
Outside of my professional pursuits, I enjoy spending quality time with my wife and daughter. I also embrace outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and playing sports.
Cathy Arbeiter
Cathy is a native of Southern Illinois, mother of three children, and business owner of Willow Soul Healing. Growing up Cathy had a very traumatic childhood filled with verbal, emotional, and sexual abuse, abandonment, death, along with other traumatic events. After ending a 10 year marriage, she felt a complete loss of identity and found herself tired of taking medication to mask her lifelong battle against depression and anxiety. So, she decided to start her own healing journey. During this time, she discovered her true self-love and several different holistic healing modalities that didn't just cover up the issues, but provided a transformational change. At this point in her life, she knew she had to share these tools with others. She now teaches others how to live an authentic life and chase after their dreams while also healing from past traumas and wounds through connecting with their body, mind, and soul. Cathy teaches others how to let go of limiting beliefs and patterns so they can live a more fulfilled life and find their purpose.
Cathy holds certifications in integrative healing arts practitioner, hypnotherapy, past life regression, sound healing, Gong Therapy, neuro-linguistic programming, master reiki practitioner, light body healing practitioner, and spiritual life coaching.