Welcome! Are you ready to take the first step toward a more fulfilling, balanced, and empowered life? I’m JD, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 21 years of experience in helping individuals, families, and communities overcome mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges. With a Master's in Guidance and Counseling and a Bachelor's in Educational Psychology from Alcorn State University, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for supporting those who seek personal growth and healing. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals facing a variety of struggles, from anxiety and depression to career discord, relationship challenges, and more. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and respect. I recognize that each person is unique, and I tailor my techniques to meet your individual needs—whether that’s through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or Client-Centered Therapy, among others. I believe in working alongside you as a partner in your journey to mental and emotional well-being. Whether we’re tackling personal challenges, family dynamics, or deeper issues, my goal is to help you reach your fullest potential. I strive to create a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where you can feel empowered to make meaningful changes. I’m genuinely excited about the possibility of working together and helping you move toward your goals with confidence and clarity. Let’s begin this transformative journey together. I look forward to being here for you every step of the way. Warmly, JD

If positive change is what you are seeking, let me help you get there. Discovering your unique self and achieving life satisfaction while improving your quality of life will take time, but I am here to help. Self awareness and insight are beneficial aspects of treatment. A willingness to put in the work to improve is vital. I believe that change is possible, but I also understand that it is not an easy path to take. My goal is to create a safe, therapeutic environment where change and growth can occur. I want to help you develop ways to positively cope with the world around you. I have traveled the path to change; you are not alone in your journey. As a published author on the topic of social anxiety, I'm here to help you better understand your anxiety, its symptoms, and learn how to cope and take control of your life. I am glad that you have taken this first step. I am skilled in helping adults cope with anxiety, conflict, behavior issues, anger, depression, self esteem, marital and family issues, and more. I am also a Christian and can provide faith/Christian based counseling.

I am licensed in Texas with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hello Prospective clients. I applaud you for having the motivation to pursue therapy. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I also serve as a Qualified Board Supervisor with the State of MS for Licensed Professional Counselors. I earned a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Mental/Behavioral Health. I have over 15 years of experience in mental health and social services. I have experience providing services for children, teens and adults presenting with various mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. My approach to therapy is client centered, strength based and solution focused. As a professionally trained and experienced mental health practitioner, I have the tools and understanding to help you create the life you imagine and get a renewed sense of self. I welcome any client who has taken the initiative to reach out and make attempts to do something differently, something better to change their lives. I enjoy meeting people, hearing their unique life experiences, helping them meet their goals, and collaborating with them in a manner that facilitates positive change and growth. In our collaboration, I want you to feel calm, safe and secure in knowing that you can openly and freely share your thoughts, feelings and experiences. I will help you process, work through, increase awareness, gain better insight, motivate, support and empower you to be the best version of yourself possible. We are all in this journey of life together. Despite our differences, there are so many aspects of the human experience that are universal. At the end of the day, we all just want to be healthy, in our minds and bodies, happy, feel loved, supported and validated and our lives to the highest potential. It's my pleasure to assist you in this journey!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor with a national board certification in counseling and a Specialist Degree in counseling and psychology. I have over 20 years experience in counseling with diverse populations from many different backgrounds. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, women's issues, relationship issues, and career concerns. I have been successful in helping clients become emotionally healthier and make better decisions. My counseling style is eclectic and insight oriented. I combine rational-emotive, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I also use reality therapy techniques to assist clients in evaluating their present situation and setting goals for the future. If you are struggling with depression, feeling discouraged, isolated or anxious and fearful, I understand and I can help. I have the credentials necessary to bring hope and change to brighten your tomorrows. I enter the process with you and will assist you in reaching your goals for treatment. You no longer have to struggle alone but have someone ready to help meet your needs.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW I received my Bachelor’s Degree in 1973 in Social Science from Mississippi Valley State University. I was accepted in the first Masters of Social Work Program at the University of Southern Mississippi graduating in 1975. I was awarded the first Social Worker of the Year by the Mississippi Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers in 1992. I was accepted in the first Ph.D. Program in Social Work at Jackson State University graduating in 2000, with the primary focus in Psychotherapeutic Social Work. Prior to retiring from Private Practice, I was part owner and CEO of Family Counseling Services, PLLC in Meridian, MS. This was a Private Behavioral Health Care Group Practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, PhD Clinical Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. While in Private Practice, I specialized in Marriage and Family Therapy, Cognitive/Affective Disorders, to include patients experiencing Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Disorder. After retirement, I accepted the offer to serve as a group therapist for Rush/Ochsner Intensive Outpatient Psychogeriatric Programs. These are IOP's throughout East Mississippi. In 2000, I accepted to be a consultant for Rush Psychogeriatric Intensive Outpatient Programs. In this role, I help develop the Behavioral Healthcare Program for geriatric patients with mental health, aging and emotional conditions. After developing these Programs, I provided training for social workers, psychiatrist and nurses. Afterward, I surveyed these Programs in accordance to CMS guidelines. In 1999 I accepted the consulting role with East Mississippi Correctional Facility, a private prison under the management of the GEO Group, Inc. in Boca Raton, Florida. In that consulting role, I designed the first exclusive mental health program in corrections in the United States. February 2006, I accepted the full-time position as Deputy Warden of Mental Health Programs with East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF), and maintained my private practice with Family Counseling Services, PLLC. From 1973 to 1985, I served as Assistant Director for Region Ten (Weems) Mental Health Center covering a catchment area of nine counties in East Central Mississippi. In that role, I wrote the Initial Operation Grant for Weems Mental Health Center and other grants. 1986, I served as Clinical Director and an investor of Laurel Wood Psychiatric Hospital in Meridian, MS. I served fifteen years on the Meridian School Board of Trustees, serving two terms as President. I was elected as Region Ten National Association of Social Work Representative for the Nomination and Leadership Committee, representing Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana and Tennessee. 1994, I was appointed to the first Mississippi Social Workers Licensure Board serving one term as chairman. I served as an Auditor of Correctional Facilities in the United States for the American Correctional Association (ACA). Also, I was a Psychiatric Social Worker Surveyor consultant for the Center of Medicaid/Medicare Services (CMS), in which I surveyed public and private psychiatric hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid compliance in the United States. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Diplomat in Clinical Social Work, and Certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers. 2006, I was inducted in the Hall of Fame at Meridian Community College. I have served as a part-time instructor for Mississippi State University School of Social Working – Meridian Branch, Meridian Community College and Adjunct Faculty for the University of Southern Mississippi School of Social Work. I have provided the following professional presentations: • 2015 Techniques in the Provision of Group Psychotherapy - Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • 2017 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • Guest speaker for the 2010 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, LA. Topic: Efficacy of Mental Health Services in Corrections • Presenter at 2011 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in Chicago, Ill, Topic: Long Term Segregated Offender Mental Health Program. • Social Work Standards of Practice in Psychiatric Hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Seattle, WA • Assessment Interviewing Training for the Mississippi Department of Health and Human Services- Jackson, MS • Stress Management Workshops for Industries, Hospitals and other professional organizations. • Interviewing Skills Training for the Department of Public Welfare; sponsored by the University of Southern Mississippi Continuing Education Department - Gulfport, MS • Assessment Interviewing/Assessment Training for the Bureau of Indian Affairs; Choctaw Reservation - Philadelphia, MS • Developing of Treatment Plans for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Baltimore, MD • Guest Speaker for the Institute of Rural Mental Health; Topic: Barriers for African Americans in Obtaining Mental Health Services In the Rural South • Operational Development of the Psychosocial Assessments – Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Kansas City, MO I have authored the following publications: Book: How to Prevent the Collision of the Two Worlds we Live, Publisher - Mulberry Book, LLC, 2020. Hospitalized Africa American Men with Mental Illness: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. Psychiatric Rehabilitation Skills, Volume 6, Number 3, winter 2002. Hospitalized African American Mental Health Consumers: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, Volume 75, Number 2, pp. 254-261, 2005. I have been married to Catherine Nelson Gillispie since 1973. We have a daughter Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell who is a physician of OBGY at Ochsner Hospital in New Orleans and son, Rashad Gillispie a graduate of MVSU with a degree in computer science. My wife and I attend North Park church in Meridian, MS a multiracial and cultural congregation. Licensed and Certifications: • Mississippi Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Counselor - #COO82 • Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) - #881216796 • Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) - #006164

I am an Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Mississippi. I have over 20 years of counseling experience. I worked as a social worker for the fist half of my life and then went back to get my LPC. I have worked in various areas of therapy including domestic violence, trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use issues that include comorbid diagnoses. I am a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor committed to providing a safe environment for clients to share feelings, fears, challenges, and goals for themselves and their families. Innovative thinker and problem solver who is dedicated to excellent, evidenced-based care. Interested in research and learning in order to improve patient/client care.

I am a family and marriage therapist with over 20 years of experience. I have experience in working with singles, married couples, teens and the elderly. I am here to help you, knowing that reaching out for help is not always easy. I am an open-ended listener who gives you the opportunity to express yourself in a nonjudgmental environment. I have helped many get through their trials and tribulations. My idea of therapy is not to erase what you've been through but, to offer an environment where you can express any and all experiences and voice how you can move forward. My goal is to help you grow in all aspects of life, it's not always easy being vulnerable which is why I offer my support and aid in all experiences that you have and will go through. I hope to meet you soon!

I have held a Masters in Social Work since 2001; I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2016. Any questions or concerns; you need only to ask. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns; depression, anxiety, various illnesses, grief and loss concerns and end of life challenges for individuals and their loved ones. I believe in the positive regard for all. My approach is client-centered and solution-focused. I believe in tailoring a treatment plan to meet an individual's specifically unique concerns. I have a judgement-free practice. I am here to assist an individual to better cope and manage their challenges. If you are ready to make deliberate efforts to improve your circumstance, my role is to encourage and applaud that effort in a healthy and productive way. I look forward to working with you.

As a licensed therapist serving Mississippi, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through transformative healing, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My approach honors each person's unique journey, particularly focusing on young adults, women's experiences, and individuals working through family conflicts, social anxiety, and life transitions. I bring culturally responsive care that centers on self-love, communication, and personal empowerment. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I create a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their deepest challenges. Whether you're confronting isolation, seeking purpose, or healing from difficult experiences, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with understanding and professional guidance. My work is grounded in evidence-based practices that respect your individual strengths and lived experiences. Together, we'll develop meaningful strategies to support your emotional wellness and personal transformation.

Hello, I am Melissa Upton. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi. I am also a National Certified Counselor with NBCC. I received my Master's and Specialist's Degree from Mississippi State University in School Counseling. I have 14 years of experience in school counseling and 25 years of experience in the public school system in Mississippi. I have worked with adolescents for 25 years. I am looking to broaden my horizon and begin a new phase in my life with more one-on-one counseling. I have observed in the past 25 years, the need for counselors in everyone’s life. I have worked with students in anger management, depression, coping skills, anxiety, relationship issues and ADHD, as well as academic and career planning in the school setting. I am looking forward to working with different age groups to provide counseling services in these areas and possibly more. My therapy style is client-centered and cognitive behavioral. I use the RIASEC model, John Holland's career inventory model when providing academic/career counseling. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I believe counseling should provide a place to be yourself and work through conflicts that come with everyday life. We all need to practice “self-help” more than we do. Talking to a counselor is one approach towards helping yourself live a happy and balanced life. If you are ready to begin the “self-help” process and begin to have a more fulfilling and balanced life, I am here to support you and help to begin that journey. I look forward to working with you!

Hello! I am a licensed therapist in Mississippi with 8 years of professional experience. I specialize in helping clients navigate a variety of challenges, including stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting concerns, motivation struggles, self-esteem, confidence, and career difficulties. I strive to create an open and safe environment where you can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. I believe that building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship is key to helping you achieve your personal goals and improve your overall well-being. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage, and I am proud of you for getting started. I look forward to working together and supporting you on your journey toward a healthier, happier life.

I am licensed in Mississippi with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. I am also able to assist those who believe that their Christian faith is at the core of their morals and values. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Mississippi and Utah with over 10-years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping my clients cope with addictions, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. I am in long term recovery from substance abuse with over 32 years clean and sober. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. My approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based practices, and meeting my clients exactly where they are. Whether you’re navigating a personal crisis, adjusting to major life changes such as divorce, career transitions, or seeking support after the loss of a loved one, I provide a safe and supportive space to talk, process, and grow. I believe therapy is about more than easing symptoms—it’s about reclaiming your story and creating lasting change. My role is to walk alongside you with genuine care, practical tools, and structured guidance so you can move from simply surviving to truly thriving. I specialize in trauma-informed care for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction including behavioral addictions like gambling, internet use, sex, food, and shopping. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. I know reaching out for help can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do this alone. My commitment is to meet you with compassion, respect, and genuine care. If you’re ready to begin your healing journey, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can create a safe place for you to talk, process, and grow.