Allison Amick, MRC, LPC-A

Allison Amick, MRC, LPC-A has over 14 years of experience working in the mental health field. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a concentration in Women’s Studies from Winthrop University in 2004.  She received her Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of South Carolina's School of Medicine in 2009. Allison began her career working with individuals diagnosed with Bi-Polar, Schizophrenia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Panic Disorders, and various other diagnosis in a Psychosocial Clubhouse setting. She completed her graduate level internship at The Renfrew Center of North Carolina working as an intensive outpatient group and individual therapist for those with Eating Disorders. Allison has training in CBT and integrative modalities working with Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge eating disorders, and EDNOS. Allison has experience in crisis counseling, abuse recovery counseling, and recovery from traumatic experiences. She has experience counseling and placing people in careers of their choice to enhance their lives and wellness. Allison also spent four years as a researcher for the Department of Neuropsychiatry Division of Biological research through the University of South Carolina working on studies involving Schizophrenia and Addictions.  She has a holistic approach to therapy and tailors each counseling experience to the needs of the client.

In her spare time Allison enjoys spending time with her family, reading, listening to podcasts, meditation, studying holistic medicine, spending time outdoors and traveling.

Bonita Wheeler, LMSW

• Parenting
• Grief
• Anger Management
• ADHD
• Coping
• Family Conflict
• Conflict Resolution
• Self-Esteem
• Emotional Disturbances
• PTSD
• ODD
• Bipolar Disorder
• Borderline Personality Disorder

Carlton Andrews, LPC, NCAC

Carlton Andrews has over 22 years of experience working in the counseling field. In 2005 he received his Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of South Carolina's School of Medicine. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Nationally Certified Addictions Counselor. Through his career he has primarily focused on those working to free themselves from substance use disorders as well as gambling, pornography and sex addiction. Carlton has worked extensively with couples, impaired professionals and others seeking to change habits and personality traits that hinder their happiness. One cornerstone for Carlton is helping his clients recognize, face, and overcome the fear often associated with having personal difficulties. While enjoying a focused, yet laid back approach, Carlton uses varied methods in his counseling practice. Among these are cognitive behavioral therapy , motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness. Carlton has facilitated continuing education trainings for other counselors and is an Adjunct Professor at the University of South Carolina's School of Medicine. He also has a special interest in using Skype and other internet tools to provide Distance Counseling to those that believe therapy may help, but for various reasons, are unable to get started. Currently Carlton is pursuing his goal of becoming a Licensed Supervisor for other Professional Counselors.

James Fanning, LPC, MEd

James has spent years helping people identify what may be wrong in their lives and helping them develop a plan to address these problems. He has a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from USC School of Medicine. He is licensed by the state of South Carolina as a Professional Counselor. He also has a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from USC. James holds the designation of GCDF, Global Career Development Facilitator, so he can help with career decisions. In addition, James is a National Board Certified Teacher/Counselor.
James has spent the last 15 years working in High Schools and Middle Schools, while maintaining a Private Clinical Practice. He has extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults concerning behavior, mental health and substance abuse issues. Prior to working in schools, James worked at a multitude of mental health agencies with all populations including, Lexington Richland Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counsel, Department of Juvenile Justice, Department of Mental Health, Department of Social Services, Columbia Metro Treatment Center, and Three Rivers Treatment Center.

James’s counseling theory is Solution Focused (what we need to do to feel better and how are we going to do it). Identifying these two items is the goal of therapy. James believes that the therapist/clinician relationship is paramount to success. Whatever the issues may be, there is definitely a process to address the issue and be happy and satisfied with life.
James loves spending time with his two teen aged children and his wife of 23 years.

Jessica Pena-Cabana, PhD, MEd, CSC, LPC-S, CFC

Founder & President, Therapist, Trainer, Instructor
Dr. Pena-Cabana has over 16 years of experience working with children, adolescents, couples, families, and adults with special needs and emotional issues. Dr. Pena-Cabana is trained as a National Certified Forensic Counselor (NAFC) and also in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Solution focused, Play therapy, Grief and Loss, PTSD, and trauma. She is a member of AASECT/ Sex Therapist. She has work as a Clinical Director, Therapist, and Professor in NYC, Texas, and South Carolina. Dr. Pena-Cabana has the experience and ability to work with children with Autism, ADD/ADHD, oppositional behaviors, Anger Management, and trauma. Additionally, she provides therapy and supervision for Parenting, Grief and Loss, and Behavioral Problems and Families suffering from PTSD .

Dr. Pena-Cabana was trained in a Military setting to work with those suffering from various forms of PTSD, Anxiety, Addictions, Grief, and Depression. She is socially sensitive and able to work with diverse populations, including those who are monolingual Spanish, recent immigrants, and the LGBT population. Dr. Pena-Cabana has traveled extensively and has chosen South Carolina to be her home. She loves to travel, help people, and spend time with her family.

Michele Blanch-Barr, LISW

Just want to say hello and give some background about myself. I have lived in South Carolina as an infant, child, teenager and Adult. I am a member of the Baby Boomer Generation!! I really like being able to say that and know it still has relevance. Many of my views and beliefs have been shaped due to my experiences of these times.

I received my early education in Richland County Public Schools.

I received my Undergraduate Degree from Johnson C. Smith University. My major was Sociology. I received my MSW (Masters in Social Work) from the University of South Carolina. I have worked in Mental Health and Behavioral  Health  for most of my Professional Life. This includes MUSC - Behavioral Health (child and adolescent services ); Columbia Area Mental  Health Center ( child, adolescent and family  services) and Department of the Army (Behavioral Health  and Family Advocacy).  I enjoy  working with individuals, couples and families to address issues and resolve conflicts and concerns.  I recognize and support strengths in this process.   I consider myself a person of faith but make no judgment regarding others or their spirituality.  I enjoy reading, music, dancing, and playing cards.  I have one son and four Grandchildren.

My specialities include:

• Marital therapy and partner/relationship issues
• Family issues and family therapy
• Individual therapy  (PTSD, Depression,  Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders)

Michelle Blanding, MA, LPCA, NCC

The journey of a thousand miles begins with that first step.  I’m glad you’re taking this first step.

I have approximately 9 years of experience in working with families, children, adolescents, and adults with varying challenges and mental health diagnoses.  I received my bachelor’s degree in Health Science with an emphasis in public health/epidemiology from Morris College in Sumter, SC and I received my master’s degrees Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University in Columbia, SC. While at Webster, I completed my internships at Brighter Pathways LLC, where I continued to gain new experiences working in the healing arts and marveled at the human potential to overcome many difficulties.  I’m interested in a wide range of mental health concerns as I work to provide a safe space for clients to feel comfortable and welcome in sharing their concerns.

I also developed my knowledge base working with children, adolescents, and families extensively while working with agencies that provide support to families and children in therapeutic foster care experiencing PTSD from traumatic situations and families experiencing difficulties. My experience also extends into dealing with the challenges that are unique to the military family.

I use different types of therapies that may vary based on my client's preference and need including play therapy for the little ones. I most often use solution focused and trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapies with my clients. However, the type of therapy will be tailored on the needs of my client. I have a passion for helping clients find the answers that are within themselves to determine how they want to grow or make change in their lives. Some of my specialties are in:

• ADHD/ADD
• Anger Management
• Behavioral Issues
• Codependency
• Coping Skills
• Divorce
• Domestic Abuse
• Eating Disorders
• Emotional Disturbance
• Family Conflict
• Grief
• Infidelity
• Life Balance
• Oppositional Defiance
• Parenting
• Peer Relationships
• Relationship Issues
• School Issues
• Self Esteem
• Self- Care
• Sex Therapy
• Sexual Abuse
• Suicidal Ideation
• Trauma and PTSD
• Women's Issues

Meet your therapist: I was born in South Carolina but traveled with my family to many places growing up, since home was where the military sent us. I was able to meet a lot of wonderful  people and gain many memorable experiences. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy cooking, decorating and the holidays.

If you are ready, Let’s take the next step in your journey to wellness.

Nancy Hyman, LICSW

Nancy Hyman is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She graduated with a Bachelor degree in psychology from Appalachian State and a Master's degree from the University of South Carolina. She worked two years to earn an advanced license to practice independently. Nancy has provided treatment for individuals and relationships helping to teach skills to regain happiness. She provides assessment, education and referrals for medications. Nancy focuses on teaching Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Brief Solution Focused Therapy which are practical with homework Her clients' have described her as non-judgmental and relatable. Nancy can help you to learn real solutions in a safe environment.

Olivia Sitton, MA, LPC/A

Olivia was born and raised in Greenville SC. She graduated from the University of South Carolina obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2016. She continued her education at South University and recently obtained her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Olivia is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and working towards obtaining her full LPC License. Olivia has been working in the mental health field for many years working with a variety of populations such as children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and senior citizens in different settings such as inpatient, residential, group homes, and outpatient. Olivia has experience working with children and providing 1:1 therapy to children diagnosed with Autism and also working with adolescents, young adults, adults who suffer from mental health issues. She has experience working in group settings while also working one on one with a client. Olivia has worked with clients who have a diagnosis of Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Substance Abuse Disorder, Depression, among others.

Olivia aspires to help clients overcome a difficult time in their life, so that they can once again live purposeful, joy-filled life, while honoring their past. She has worked with clients who suffer from trauma, anxiety, anger, lack of coping skills, behavioral issues, ADHD, self-harmful, school issues such as bullying, and learning disabilities. She is committed to continue to educate herself in gaining more knowledge and skills to best help her clients. Olivia has a passion for helping clients get back to a happy place and to help them reach the goals that they have for themselves.

If you are ready to make a change in your life, or simply just want someone to talk to and be a listening ear, please feel free to reach out.

Robert McCloy, Intern

Everyone needs help sometimes, I know I do.  Though we may feel alone, the truth is we are in this together.  The goal to grow and develop a greater sense of wellness on the continuum of well-being is one that we share.  Often in life our deepest challenges and pain derive from relationships; so, it is the counseling rapport that is most significant in resiliency and healing. Counseling is an authentic process--one which I believe in with all my heart--it is for those seeking the resources, strength, essence, and insight that reside within. Lao Tzu asserted, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” I applaud your courage in moving forward in life, and I hope I can be of guidance to you.

With this in mind, my foundational approach is client centered.  However, I am versed in a multitude of theories, to include Existentialism, Systems, Contemporary Feminine, Multicultural, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Mindfulness).  However, I am happy to collaboratively create a plan that best meets your individual needs. As a life-long learner, I am always expanding my knowledge base, building on experiential insights, and integrating theory.  I am especially interested in:

• Trauma, post-traumatic stress, post-traumatic growth
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Adaptive coping mechanisms & self-regulation skills for depression & distress
• Positive communication skills
• Healthy, interdependent relationships
• Values, boundaries, & self-esteem building
• Rights, responsibilities, & robust family systems
• Grief management
• Positive behavior management systems
• Parenting styles, attachment theory, & behavior plans for children
• Self-care plans with integrated mindfulness practices
• Resolving core conflicts that impede self-actualization & well-being

A little about me.  My life has been quite a wonderful, long and winding road.  I began in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and enlisted in the Army after college, serving five years. I settled in South Carolina, as my wife is a native, and began my teaching career, during which I earned a Master’s Degree in Education.  We have three teenagers now, and I have taught 8th grade English for the last 20 years.  I began my counseling endeavor about a year ago with a counseling internship, which I completed with honors, earning a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.  I believe that my array of personal and professional experiences is a major asset to my clinical practice, and I am grateful for those that helped me get here today.

Shambricka D. North, LISW- CP

Tamara Grimm, LISW-CP, PhD Candidate

Debra Maxwell, LPC, MA

In stressful times like these, we can all benefit from additional support in our lives, Therapy can be a stepping stone for living your best life, and we at Thriveworks excel in providing services to that end. For over 27 years I have learned, listened, and shared knowledge that I would be privileged to bring to you during your own journey. Born in Kentucky, I moved from Colorado several years ago to South Carolina. I earned my masters degree in clinical psychology from Middle Tennessee State in 1996 and have enjoyed a variety of work experiences over the years. Some of my areas of experience include:

• Borderline personality
• Codependency
• Life Balance
• Self Care
• Family of Origin Dynamics
• Boundary and Communication Difficulties
• DBT
• Relationship Issues
• Resolving Trauma
• Anxiety/Stress
• Mindfulness
• Couples Counseling
• Phase of Life Challenges
• Depression
• Cognitive Distortions

  I provide sessions on Saturdays and some evenings in a casual atmosphere. If you are ready to start or continue your life's journey, then know I will work as hard as you to achieve the happiness and wholeness you deserve...and maybe share some smiles along the way!

Katy Linich, Ed.S, NCC, LPC

Kathryn (who goes by Katy) is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of South Carolina and a nationally certified counselor (NCC) from the National Board of Certified Counselors. She earned her BA degree in Psychology from Clemson University, and went on to complete her Education Specialist (Ed.S) degree in Counselor Education with an emphasis in marriage, couples, and family counseling, from the University of South Carolina. In addition to working as a counselor, Katy is currently pursuing her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at USC. Her research interest is grief counseling and adjustment to an acquired physical disability.

She has worked with many different populations and all ages. Her most recent and extensive work experience is as an outpatient family therapist with children ages 4-18. However, she also has experience and specialized training in working with adults and couples. She also spent over a year with the SC Commission for the Blind, helping consumers process their adjustment to life with a visual impairment. She has treated individuals with depression, anxiety, addictions, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, grief and loss, adjustment concerns, anger management, and other mental health concerns. She works hard to create an open, easy-going, and honest environment where clients feel they are valued and understood. Katy sees past the surface to appreciate and build on the strengths of every client. In her (rare and precious) free time, Katy can be found listening to true crime/investigative journalism podcasts, snuggling with her dog, trying new recipes, and/or traveling for conferences and visits to loved ones.

Tarsha Jobe, LPC

Tarsha Jobe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with been providing therapeutic services to children, teens, adults, couples and families since 1996. Tarsha has provided therapy services in the home, outpatient mental health facility, inpatient psychiatric facility and in the school setting. Tarsha has experience counseling, children, adolescents, adults, families and couples.

In addition, Tarsha has at least 18 years post master’s degree experience conducting clinical assessments, providing case management services, crisis services and individual/group/family therapy to children, adolescents and adults in an inpatient setting, outpatient setting and in-home setting.

Tarsha has a broad and unique base of experience counseling children and adolescents. Areas of emphasis with children include mood disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, conduct disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, schizophrenia and psychosis. Tarsha also has significant experience working with children and adolescents who have experienced developmental delays, varying degrees of trauma, various types of physical and/or sexual abuse, abandonment and/or neglect and dysfunctional family systems.

Tarsha sees adults for a variety of reasons including divorce, relationships, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, life changes, etc. Tarsha strives to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which individuals can be supported in their efforts to change and grow as well as become reconnected to their strengths and dreams.

Kiaya Demonbreun, MA

Kiaya Demonbreun received her B.A. In Anthroplogy at Wake Forest University. She is currently earning a Master's degree in Counseling from Colorado Christian University. Kiaya is committed to working with adults, children, couples, and families from all population groups. She is committed to gaining knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to aid others in improving their life quality. Kiaya aspires to become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.

Kiaya enjoys spending her leisure time with her boyfriend and their friends, as well as with her dog. She is Native to Columbia, SC. When she is not at Thriveworks, Kiaya works as a Medical Assistant/ Scribe.

Sally Pitts, LPCA

Sally Pitts is a Masters of Counseling candidate from Wake Forest University. She received a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from the University of South Carolina in 2014. Sally is originally from Washington, DC but after loving her time at USC she decided to make Columbia her home. When not at Thriveworks, Sally is a Veterinary Technician and loves her time spent helping animals. She hopes to one day become licensed in Animal Assisted Therapy. She is committed to helping all populations and to learning from those around her.