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Our Team

Our Clinicians

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Brooke Nelson Murphy, MS LPC 

Owner/Chief Executive Officer

Clinical Director

Licensed Professional Counselor

I am a professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health offering individual counseling. I graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry, and I incorporate my knowledge of physiology and neurobiology into counseling intervention and psychoeducation.

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Margaret Bossaller, MSW LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health, offering clinical services that focus on treating the whole person through addressing the biological, sociological, and psychological components of wellness. I specialize in assessing and treating a variety of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-based disorders, and substance use disorders. I have years of direct experience in assisting those with

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Stephanie Brewer, MS LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health, offering individual counseling. My education began at the University of North Alabama with a degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice and I received my Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of West Alabama.

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Katelyn Dodd, MSW LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, offering individual counseling for adolescents and adults. My educational journey began at Mississippi State University where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in psychology in 2017 and I obtained my Master of Social Work at Boise State University in 2020. I have experience providing counseling services to numerous populations, both in the state of Alabama and California, including children and adolescents in the foster care system, adults and older adults, and families. Throughout my encounters with these populations, I have gained experience with a variety of challenges that bring people to counseling, including: trauma, anxiety, disorders of mood, grief/loss, eating disorders, substance use, marital problems, and life transitions. I see my role as a counselor to be defined by the following words: collaborative, restorative, curious, empathetic, hopeful, and attentive. My ultimate goal as a clinician is to provide a safe and meaningful space to my clients to facilitate healing and self- understanding. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a person-centered perspective and is trauma-informed. I strive to meet each of my clients where they are at. The therapeutic modalities I utilize include Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Family Based Treatment for Eating Disorders, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (and other presenting challenges), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy. I also value the role of psychoeducation and the person-in-environment perspective in the course of counseling.

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Adezza DuBose-Williams, MS LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a compassionate and dedicated mental health therapist who earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in 2023. With a strong commitment to empowering clients, I work with a diverse range of individuals, including adolescents, teenagers, young adults, and individuals navigating challenges such as depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, stress management, and anger management. With a client-centered approach, I believe in focusing on the unique strengths of each person, creating a safe space where individuals can explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. My therapeutic philosophy is grounded in helping clients recognize their inherent resilience and guiding them in making decisions that align with their personal needs and goals. Through my work, I strive to support clients in building lasting coping mechanisms, enhancing emotional well-being, and navigating life’s transitions with confidence. Whether working with young adults facing anxiety, teenagers struggling with depression, or individuals dealing with postpartum challenges, my compassionate and tailored approach make me an invaluable ally in my clients’ mental health journeys.

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Morgan Hamrick, MSW LICSW-S

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with Vallis Mental Health, offering individual counseling for adults. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Montevallo in 2013 and obtained my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Alabama in 2015. As a therapist, I work to create a safe environment aimed at facilitating personal growth, connection, and empowerment

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Daphne Ragland, EdS LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health, offering therapy for adolescents and adults. I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Social Work, a Master’s in Counseling, and an Education Specialist from Jacksonville State University. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have counseling experience within residential, acute inpatient, and outpatient settings.

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Tia Wheatley, MSW LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

My name is Tia Wheatley and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker that offers individual counseling to adults (18+). I graduated with my Masters of Social Work in 2021 from Arizona State University and have been practicing as a therapist since; however, I have been in the social work field since 2018.  I have experience working with various populations - adolescents, young adults, older adults and domestic violence survivors, which have provided me invaluable opportunities to work with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, phobias, depression, mood disorders/bipolar disorder, managing ADHD symptoms, navigating life transitions, safety planning, grief/loss and much more! As I am still learning more about myself as a clinician, I am finding that I am extremely passionate about working with older adults (65+).

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Staci Whitaker, MS LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health offering therapy to adults. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Tulsa in 1995 and obtained my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in 2009. I have worked in the field of mental health for 17 years and have been a licensed therapist since 2012.

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Jelicia Wright, MS LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

I am a licensed professional counselor here at Vallis Mental Health, offering individual therapy. I have a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Alabama A&M University and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Philander Smith College (now University). Having worked with a variety of demographics in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including adults, kids, and senior citizens, I bring a depth of knowledge and compassion to my job. ​ I specialize in treating substance use disorders, anxiety, and depression. I use a holistic approach, including evidence-based methods like Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help individuals find solutions and develop healthier coping strategies.  ​ I am passionate about helping people, and my ultimate satisfaction lies in aiding individuals as they navigate the intricacies and complexities of their mental health. I aim to create a supportive environment where clients feel heard, acknowledged, and supported, regardless of their struggles. I believe it is important to celebrate every advancement, no matter how small.

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Nikki Mott, MS

Masters Level Counselor

Hello, I'm Nikki Mott, I am a Masters Level Counselor at Vallis Mental Health. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts and a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. The profound impact of 2020 made me realize the critical importance of mental well-being in our lives, prompting my decision to embark on a second career as a counselor. I firmly believe in the uniqueness of every individual and recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. My goal is to collaborate with you to discover the personalized tools and strategies that resonate with your needs, empowering you to achieve your fullest potential and live your best life.

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Lydia Nave, MA

Masters Level Counselor

I am currently an Masters Level Counselor at Vallis Mental Health. I work alongside management to provide support to staff and clinicians. I graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and obtained my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Alabama. ​ I am currently pursuing my ALC license and believe that each person needs a unique counseling experience to obtain the support and strength to meet their therapeutic goals. Therapy can be vulnerable and challenging and my goal is to provide a safe space to meet each person where they are while providing empathy and respect for their situation. My clinical approach involves integrating various therapeutic models as well as the systems that make up an individuals life to provide a complete and whole treatment experience. Upon obtaining my ALC license my goal is to provide mental health counseling services at Vallis Mental Health.

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Shianne Wold, MA

Masters Level Counselor

I am a Masters Level Counselor at Vallis Mental Health. I have a BA in Social and Behavioral Sciences with a minor in Psychology and an MA in clinical mental health counseling from the University of North Alabama. ​ Depending on their specific personality and needs, I customize treatments and interventions for what works best for my patients. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to teach coping skills. I use talk therapy, art therapy, activities, play therapy techniques, and even think of creative ways to tailor these interventions specifically to each client. My job is to support you, collaborate with you, and give you the room to access your own strength to help you become the best version of yourself.

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John Niemeyer, MBA BA

Graduate Intern
Under the supervision of Staci Whitaker, MS LPC

John is a United States Army Veteran who worked as a campus minister in college while obtaining bachelor's degrees in psychology and criminal justice from Central Methodist University. He earned his MBA and served as the Director of Operations at the Downtown Rescue Mission in Huntsville, Alabama, before shifting his focus to a career in mental health. He has served as a family advocate intern at the National Children’s Advocacy Center and is currently a Case Manager at Wellstone Behavioral Health and a counselor in training at Vallis Mental Health as he completes his Masters of Social Work from Louisiana State University and his Masters of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. John’s approach is authentic and person-centered. He works to understand each client’s story to identify strengths and needs as they partner to reach the client’s goals. He uses social work to identify how systems affect issues while utilizing counseling and psychology in collaboration with clients to create effective evidence-based interventions that achieve their objectives.

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Amanda Sloane, BA

Graduate Intern
Under the supervision of Jelicia Wright, MS LPC

Life can feel messy, confusing, and overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. As a former journalist and family documentary photographer, I’ve spent my career listening to people’s stories and helping them find meaning in their experiences. Now, as a graduate-level counseling student, I bring that same curiosity, compassion, and respect for storytelling into my work with clients. I believe that your voice matters, including the way you express your truth. Sometimes, though, your journey can feel complicated or uncertain. Using a humanistic and existential approach, I help people make sense of their lives, discover their strengths, and reconnect with their most authentic selves. My goal is to walk alongside you as a guide, offering support and perspective while you take the lead in shaping the life you want. Together, we’ll work to untangle what’s holding you back so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, ready to write your next chapter. Certifications: - Certified by the Alabama Department of Human Resources in Adult Abuse Mandated Reporters Training (AAMRT) - Certified by the Alabama Department of Human Resources in Child Abuse Mandated Reporters Training (CAMRT) - HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) Trained by Biologix Solutions - Member of the American Counseling Association

Office Staff

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Andrew Harless, MS-SHMA BSW

Clinical Manager

I hold a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Troy University and began my career as a Discharge Coordinator and Case Manager at a psychiatric hospital. While in this role, I earned a Master of Science in Business with a specialization in Strategic Healthcare Management and Administration from Athens State University, as well as a Business Consulting certificate. My professional experience spans diverse sectors, including business management, healthcare, business ownership, inpatient clinical services, etc. I am passionate about mental health and excited to continue my professional journey with the team at Vallis Mental Health.

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Jessie Rogers, BS

Lead Patient Services Assistant

I am the Lead Patient Services Assistant (PSA) at Vallis Mental Health. I graduated from Troy University with a Bachelor of Applied Health Sciences and am currently working towards my Master’s in Health Administration at the University of North Alabama. My role at Vallis Mental Health is to support our clinicians and administrative staff with the purpose of providing exceptional care to our patients. As a PSA, my mission is to support everyone in achieving their personal and professional goals.

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Hailey Alexander

Patient Services Assistant

I am Patient Services Assistant at Vallis Mental Health. I provide compassionate support to patients and help ensure a smooth experience for those seeking mental health services. I assist with scheduling, patient records, and facilitating communication between patients and providers to create a welcoming and supportive environment. ​ I am a soon-to-be graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, bringing years of experience as a veterinary assistant. My academic background and practical skills have fueled my passion for science and research, and I’m eager to apply this knowledge in my next professional role. Excited about the future, I am looking forward to new challenges and opportunities to contribute in the field. I am currently working towards my bachelor's degree in Social Work, driven by my passion for mental health advocacy and helping individuals navigate their challenges. My goal is to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need by providing resources, support, and care. Outside of work and studies, I enjoy creating pottery and cooking, which help me stay balanced and connected to my community.

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Chris Herrin, BS

Patient Services Assistant

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering Technology from the University of Southern Mississippi and am currently pursuing a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of West Alabama. My professional background spans a range of experiences, including specialty coffee roasting, restaurant management, home renovation, real estate, and time as a stay-at-home dad. I am deeply passionate about mental health care and am honored to support others on their journeys as part of the team at Vallis Mental Health.

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Jacey Scott

Executive Assistant

I am an executive assistant here at Vallis Mental Health. I am currently pursuing my Bachelors in Psychology with a Minor in Behavioral Science at Athens State University. I hope to then go and get my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to become a licensed professional counselor. I have experience with crisis counseling, insurance verification, and various administrative tasks and hope to use those skills to support admin, management, and clinicians at Vallis.

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John David Murphy, DO MBA

Chief Operating Officer

I am the Chief Operating Officer at Vallis Mental Health. I graduated from the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2019 with a Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine (DO). I completed my Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Troy University that same year. I graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry with a minor in Healthcare Management. I completed my orthopedic surgery residency through the University of South Florida and HCA in St. Petersburg/Tampa, FL in June 2024. I will continue my orthopedic surgical training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Adult Reconstruction and Limb Preservation fellowship beginning 08/2024.

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