Our providers offer chronic overwhelm counseling in The Woodlands, TX

Ariane Utley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 4 years of experience providing individual and group counseling in community mental health, both inpatient and outpatient. She has supported clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, self-esteem, and relationship issues. Ariane creates a safe and supportive space where clients can explore challenges, reconnect with themselves, and begin moving toward clarity, healing, and meaningful change.

Ariane earned her Master’s in Social Work from Stephen F. Austin State University. She uses evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive processing therapy for trauma to help clients identify and shift patterns that may be keeping them stuck.

Ariane’s clients are met with warmth, respect, and non-judgment. She takes a strength-based, solution-focused approach, walking alongside clients as they navigate difficult times. Whether struggling to feel like themselves, managing overwhelming emotions, or seeking guidance, clients find support and the possibility of healing.

Shameka Butler is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 6 years of experience who specializes in trauma, PTSD, domestic violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. She helps clients break through emotional distress, rebuild self-esteem, and develop practical coping skills. Whether you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just ready for change, Shameka offers personalized sessions designed to support your journey toward healing and wholeness on your terms and at your pace. With a deep sense of empathy and unconditional positive regard, Shameka meets each client where they are without judgment.

Shameka earned a Master’s in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling from Southern Arkansas University. She provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy that fosters personal growth and emotional resilience, including cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, positive psychotherapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.

You don't have to figure it all out by yourself. Shameka is here to support you with compassion, understanding, and care. Healing takes courage, and reaching out is a powerful first step. When you're ready, Shameka is here to walk alongside you.

Dr. Jacqueline Nelson, M.A., Ph.D, LPC-S, is a caring and passionate Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with over 10 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors who are struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, anger, dysfunctional relationships, ADHD, coping skills, divorce, family conflict, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, grief, infidelity, difficult life transitions, OCD, parenting, racial identity, and more. 

Jacqueline graduated from Liberty University with her Master’s degree in Professional Christian Counseling and has her Ph.D. in Professional Counseling, Education, and Supervision from Walden University. Jacqueline also has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Houston—Central Campus. Jacqueline has worked in several roles as a Therapist, Crisis Psychotherapist, and Assistant Professor, which has allowed Jacqueline to harvest a plethora of knowledge and expertise in issues and concerns that affect everyday people in everyday life. Jacqueline has experience in supervising counseling students which has enhanced her capabilities in mentoring and coaching counseling professionals. Jacqueline also recently wrote a book: If It's In Your Head, It's In Your House: How to Process and Heal from Reoccurring Thoughts and Memories of Tragedy and Trauma by: Jacqueline Nelson LPC-S, M.A. B.A., PhD

Jacqueline is a cognitive behavioral (CBT) therapist who also utilizes the strategies, tools, and principles of solutions-focused, person-centered, existential, positive psychology, Gestalt, and Psychodynamic therapeutic approaches. Her experience working with individuals and families has promoted a dedication to try to understand, assist, and evolve the emotional, mental, and physical well-being of human development at all stages in life. Jacqueline's approach to therapy is eclectic and individualized because each client is unique and may require a unique and different approach to their healing and wellbeing.

Jacquelyn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), and Certified Anger Resolution Therapist (CART). She has over 7 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages who are struggling to cope with conditions or concerns related to family conflict, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Relationships, ADHD, Behavioral Issues, poor coping skills, grief, OCD, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, and sexual trauma. 

Jacquelyn Shair began her mission in the area of rehabilitation in January 2010, when she accepted a job working within the area of corrections as a case manager. She went on to pursue her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling, obtained her license as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and branched out to continue that passion in private practice. Jacquelyn has a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University, a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the New York Institute of Technology.

Work together with her to address the areas of your life that require healing and attention. With your willingness to grow, and Jacquelyn's professional expertise, you can start making better mental health a reality. 

Catherine Prestigiovanni is a licensed professional counselor supervisor with over 30 years of experience providing supportive psychotherapy to adults, couples, and veterans seeking to develop a healthier and more productive life. Catherine specializes in anxiety, stress, PTSD, trauma, and relationship issues. She acts as a guide in helping her clients to understand their issues and feelings, cope with daily life, and manage their mental health to live their best life. 

Catherine grew-up in a small East Texas town but moved to Houston in 1989 to attend college at the University of Houston, followed by graduate school at the University of St. Thomas. With over 30 years in the mental health industry, she has worked in many diverse settings including; nursing homes, psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, local mental health authorities, county jail, and private practice. 

Catherine believes strongly that with the proper tools and guidance, anyone can make positive changes in their lives. She believes in kindness, integrity, and “paying it forward” in life. She looks forward to working with you in the near future.

In his 20 years of experience, Licensed Professional Counselor Dr. Hunter Kennedy has practiced in many mental and behavioral health settings including hospital, residential, and outpatient. He has helped a diverse population of clients develop skills and aptitudes to deal with a wide range of issues including distorted thoughts, thinking errors, and trauma. In the past decade, Dr. Hunter’s research on levels of consciousness has allowed him to develop a protocol to enhance individual awareness. He has appeared as a specialist on TV and radio programs and has been published in psychological journals.

Dr. Kennedy has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Sam Houston State University as well as a Doctorate in Psychology from Purdue University. Dr. Kennedy utilizes rational emotive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive and narrative therapies to help clients facilitate transformational experiences.

Life has a rhythm of ups and downs that, though unavoidable, can be navigated with the right support. Dr. Kennedy is passionate about helping people move through challenging situations, freeing them to move forward on their desired path. Schedule an appointment with him today!

Ghada Simmons is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 10 years of experience, including counseling high school students, providing individual therapy, and leading group therapy sessions. Ghada has a passion for working with adults of all ages. She works with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and grief; those suffering from severe mood disorders; and much more. As a cancer survivor herself, Ghada understands the difficulties in navigating life while dealing with major health issues and serious illnesses. 

Ghada earned her Master of Arts in Counseling at Prairie View A&M. As a former high school counselor, she has experience helping teenagers reach their potential and navigate challenges. Ghada uses multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and positive psychology to reach client goals.

We all struggle at certain times in life. Ghada is confident she will be able to support you on your journey to mental wellness, regardless of the difficulties you are facing in life. If you are ready to do the work needed to get your mental health in order, schedule an appointment with her today.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) with over 12 years of experience working with adolescents and adults within the mental health field. I have conducted individual and group therapy with individuals who may struggle with depression, anxiety, suicidal idealization, trauma, and grief.

I obtained my Doctorate degree in Philosophy from Walden University, Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling degree from Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), and a Bachelor's degree in Rehabilitation & Disability Studies from Southern University A&M College. I utilize multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and mindfulness.

We each come to therapy searching for change, understanding, and relief. I believe counseling helps you accept what you cannot change and focus on what you can. Counseling is a personal journey to reach your goals, overcome struggles, and empower yourself. If you're ready to put in the work, I look forward to establishing a collaborative relationship with you.

Asha Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC). Asha has over 10 years of providing therapy with a diverse client population. She has successfully counseled adolescents, adults, and elder adults with issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, divorce, military and veteran's issues, low self-esteem, chronic stress, trauma, and PTSD. 

She earned a Master’s degree in Psychology from Houston Baptist University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Miami. Asha currently supervises Licensed Professional Counselor Associates (LPC-As) and has trained other mental health professionals in the Assessment and Management of Suicide Risk. Additionally, Asha is dedicated to counseling first responders, including law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, and front-line healthcare workers.  

She believes that confidential support to help deal with occupational and personal traumas sustained can lead to healthier relationships and stronger resiliency. In sessions, Asha utilizes a holistic approach, solutions-focused methods, trauma-resiliency approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, mindfulness-based, and Acceptance/Commitment therapy techniques in therapy. Asha strives to create and maintain an honest and non-judgmental counseling relationship with individuals that are seeking support in order to start building a meaningful life.

Tawnie Putignano is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has over 15 years of diverse experience in the field of social work, including working with adolescent youth in juvenile probation centers, adults and families with disabilities, older adults in healthcare centers and skilled nursing facilities, hospital social work, and in providing therapeutic counseling to children, adolescents, families, couples and individuals in both school, home and clinical based settings.

Tawnie completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at California State Long Beach University. She enjoys working with adolescent youth and helping to bridge communication gaps with parents. She has an excellent ability to quickly gain trust and build rapport with her clients to aid in meeting counseling goals. Tawnie enjoys working with individuals, and enjoys helping couples improve their communication skills to enhance their quality of life with themselves and with each other.

Tawnie will work with you to identify your goals, and will provide you with the skills and support that you need to meet them. She brings a humanistic, solution-focused, client-centered approach to her therapeutic counseling. Tawnie will create a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs, utilizing narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

When it comes to psychotherapy, Nadia Sherman's, LPC, approach has always been integrative and holistic, meaning that she draws on theory and interventions from many different schools of thought in order to most effectively address your concerns. She most commonly draws upon an eclectic approach of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), choice theory/reality therapy, existential, and interpersonal models of treatment. Broadly speaking, CBT is a type of intervention that helps patients understand the thoughts & feelings that influence behaviors. CBT is commonly used to treat a wide range of disorders ie. phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety. Choice theory/reality therapy perspective means that Nadia considers you the expert regarding your own life, and she is your collaborator throughout the therapy process.

Nadia Sherman believes that your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors relate to basic human needs that are not being consistently or appropriately met. These needs include love and belonging, survival and health, freedom and independence, personal power, and fun. An existential perspective examines the realities and tasks of what it means to be human (for example, having awareness of one’s own mortality, exercising one’s free will, and finding meaning and purpose in life), and how this relates to your experience of the world. An interpersonal approach means that Nadia pays particular attention to the quality and style of your attachments to others, and that she considers the therapeutic relationship itself to be an important component of the healing process.

Nadia's areas of special training and expertise include trauma recovery, individual & group/couples counseling, LGBTQ+ issues, mood and anxiety disorders, ABI/TBI patients, and a wide array of comorbid psychological disorders.