Clinical Staff

“It’s incredible to watch clients develop confidence in their own ability to manage toxic stress and behavioral health symptoms. The work we do allows them to feel better and  live the lives they want. I believe that therapy is a path that leads to peace and healing and each client's treatment plan should be unique to achieve the desired outcome.”

LaTanya has more than a decade of experience providing treatment to adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Truman State University and Master’s Degree in Counseling from Webster University and focuses on helping her clients reach their specific goals while facilitating mental and emotional wellness.

In addition to her clinical practice, LaTanya serves as the St. Louis City office’s Clinical Supervisor and manages Provident’s Access Center, which provides short-term counseling services to clients with an immediate need.

Specialties:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Chronic/Severe Mental Illness Management
• Crisis Intervention
• Family Therapy
• Play Therapy
• Trauma
• Behavior/Conduct Concerns in Youth
• Child and Adolescent Issues
• Couples/Marriage Counseling
• Relationship Improvement
• Common Life Stressors (work, interpersonal relationships, etc)
• Community Education

"I chose a career in psychiatric nursing to improve the lives of people with acute and chronic mental health disorders. My goal is to create awareness around mental health issues and reduce the stigma that accompanies clients who seek care. I am excited to work with an organization that offers a full menu of mental health services."

Jennifer Becker, MSN, PMHNP-BC, works with adolescent, adult, and geriatric service areas. She is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and will work out of our downtown office, providing in person and telemental health appointments. 

Provident Behavioral Health offers outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management services at our St. Louis City office and through telehealth for Missouri residents.

• Accepting referrals for children and adolescents
• Treating a variety of problems such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma
• Fees based on a sliding scale
• Youth under age 20 in St. Louis County may be eligible to receive services with no out-of-pocket costs thanks to funding from St. Louis County Children's Services Fund
• Many insurances accepted
• Services available Monday-Friday
• Contact the Psychiatric Services Department
  at 314.802.2670.

"The most fulfilling aspect of my work is helping clients live happier and fuller lives. Provident Behavioral Health, exemplifies an agency with a mission, putting the clients and their loved ones first. I am privileged to be a part of this group of client-centered clinicians."

Provident Behavioral Health offers outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management services at our St. Louis City office and through telehealth for Missouri residents.

Alexander's videos:

What is the most valuable service you provide?
How do I know when I need psychiatric services?
What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?
Why did I choose this field?

• Accepting referrals for children and adolescents
• Treating a variety of problems such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma
• Fees based on a sliding scale
• Youth under age 20 in St. Louis County may be eligible to receive services with no out-of-pocket costs thanks to funding from St. Louis County Children's Services Fund
• Many insurances accepted
• Services available Monday-Friday
• Contact the Psychiatric Services Department
  at 314.802.2670.

"I find it so gratifying to help improve the quality of life of my clients. I am pleased to be on staff with Provident Behavioral Health, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I have a lot of experience in working with children and adolescents, but enjoy working with individuals throughout their life span."

Povident Behavioral Health offers outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management services at our St. Louis City office and through telehealth for Missouri residents.

Stacy Johnson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing psychiatric medication management to children and adolescents.

Stacy's videos:

Do you offer Telehealth, or will my visits be in person?
What can I expect when I work with you?
How long does a typical appointment last?
What is your philosophy on prescribing psychiatric medication?
What do you enjoy most about your job?

• Accepting referrals for children and adolescents
• Treating a variety of problems such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma
• Fees based on a sliding scale
• Youth under age 20 in St. Louis County may be eligible to receive services with no out-of-pocket costs thanks to funding from St. Louis County Children's Services Fund
• Many insurances accepted
• Services available Monday-Friday

Contact the Psychiatric Services Department at 314.802.2670.

“I chose this profession because I want to help individuals through the most challenging times in life. Every day I continue to learn more from those around me, both my fellow clinicians and the people I serve. Together, we discover new ways to overcome my clients’ challenges and get past their limits.”

Specialties:

• Suicide/Crisis Intervention
• Self-Injury
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Grief/Loss

“The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life.  There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness."  

Courtney is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, providing psychiatric medication management to adults in Provident’s Downtown office. She is also available via Telehealth.

• Accepting referrals for adults
• Treating a variety of problems such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma
• Fees based on a sliding scale
• Many insurances accepted
• Services available Monday-Friday

“I believe that your mental health is top priority to get through your daily routine and to enjoy life. Without understanding how your past affects your present thoughts and behaviors, you can’t operate at your fullest potential. You’re existing instead of truly living. With the history of mistreatment of Black and Brown people by the medical community, it affects so many at a deeper level than any of us recognizes or wants to believe. I want every person (no matter their race or ethnicity) to understand that they deserve to be mentally healthy and happy."

Alexandrea chose counseling because she grew up seeing the disparities within the Black community in regards to mental health. She grew up understanding that it was something taboo, to not be spoken of and ignored. As Alexandrea grew older, she learned that you can’t truly take care of yourself or those you love (children, spouse, family members) if you are ignoring your mental health in any way. She also learned that the history of mistreatment within the medical field contributed to the fear and discomfort that so many Black and Brown people feel and carry with them for generations.

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Anger Management
• Family Conflict
• Stress Management
• Trauma

"Being a mental health clinician is a privilege, as I am able to witness and support a client’sstrengths and growth towards their desired future. I love working towards changes hopes and dreams into a reality."

Elizabeth holds an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology from the University of Dayton in Ohio and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Saint Louis University, with a specialization in clinical practice with families. Prior to starting at Provident in the outpatient setting, she has practiced in variety of settings including hospitals, residential, in-home and in-school and is experienced in in CBT, TF-CBT, MI, SFBT, Play Therapy, and DBT.  Elizabeth is a Certified Dementia Care Specialist and works with the geriatric population as well. Additionally, Elizabeth is certified to facilitate Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid both in person and virtual or blended formats.

Elizabeth spoke with Eric Schmid on St Louis Public Radio about the steps everyone should take to take care of their own mental health during the recent COVID-19 pandemic.  Click here to listen to the complete interview.

Elizabeth's videos:

How to tell others about your mental health
Making the most of your therapy appointment
What self care looks like

Specialties:

• Depression
• Crisis Intervention
• Anxiety
• Self-Injury
• Adolescent Issues
• Relationship Improvement
• Community Education

Specialties:

• Suicidal ideation
• Trauma

Specialties:

• Rehabilitation Counseling
• Vocational Counseling
• Counseling people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (including ADHD, Autism, Down Syndrome, traumatic brain injury)
• Depression
• Bi-polar disorder
• Anxiety and Grief
• I have a long history of working with the geriatric population and volunteering with the Alzheimer’s Association

“I truly feel everyone should seek counseling when needed, even counselors, to be sure we are tuning in to our own needs for support and overall care. I love the work I do because I feel therapy can be a positive way to help lift my clients and support them until they can feel empowered and have the confidence to address life’s challenges on their own.”

Sarah believes addressing mental health challenges is key to overall self-care and can often be a first defense for healing and addressing emotional needs.

Sarah Paradise has been a dedicated member of the Provident team since 2014. During her time, she has served in both the Crisis and Counseling Departments. She provides compassionate therapy to her clients and has always been one to help her fellow colleagues feel supported and grow in their clinical skills. She enjoys continuing to use her crisis intervention knowledge to help those who struggle with mental health issues, self-injury, grief/loss, and survivors of suicide. She also has a passion of working with clients of all ages to address child/adolescent issues, family/relationship conflict, and LGBT/sexual minority concerns.

Sarah graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with a Master’s of Education in Counseling.

Specialties:

• Crisis intervention
• Mental health issues
• Personality disorders
• Self-injury
• Grief/loss
• Survivors of suicide
• Family dynamics
• Relationship issues
• Child and adolescent issues
• LGBT/sexual minority concerns

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• LGBTQIA+
• Postpartum Depression and Gender Affirmation

Bridget knows that everyone, regardless of age, income, location, education level, race or ethnicity, experiences difficulties in life. Sometimes those difficulties make it challenging to recognize our own strengths or to ask for help. "I enjoy working with clients to help them recognize their strengths and discover new ways of reaching their goals for an improved quality of life."

"I am a strong advocate that mental health care should be available to everyone. Talking about the importance of mental health and making it accessible and normalizing it as a regular part of overall health care, will continue to reduce the stigma of asking for help."

As a former military spouse, Bridget has had varied and unexpected life experiences. She's met a lot of people and had the opportunity to live in many different places. "I’ve had great experiences and really tough times and had to work to find my own strengths and tools to overcome difficulties.  I come to clients with absolutely zero judgment and an open mind. My goal is to create a safe and calming place for clients to talk about their issues and work to find ways to make things better."

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Transitional Issues
• Military Member/Families
• Crisis Intervention

Specialties:

• Play Therapy
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Common Life Issues
• Self-esteem
• Family Therapy

“I want any prospective client to know that every individual has the capacity to overcome challenges.  My goal is to help them to discover their inner strengths and to build from there.”

Angela has a Masters of Education in Counseling from University of Missouri-St. Louis. She uses an integrated approach when working with clients to ensure their treatment is individualized to meet their needs.  Angela believes that therapy is a path to self-discovery and improved well-being.  This path begins with a safe and non-judgmental environment and building rapport between client and counselor.  Angela incorporates the practice of self-compassion and mindfulness into her practice. 

Specialties:

• Crisis/suicide intervention and prevention
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Self-esteem
• LGBT/ issues

“It is immensely rewarding to witness clients heal from painful experiences, explore their emotional lives, and create healthy relationships with themselves and their loved ones.”

Rachel has a Masters of Social Work from Silberman School of Social Work and a Bachelors of Arts in psychology from Hunter College. She has been in practice for over three years in crisis intervention (suicide prevention, rape crisis intervention), and two years field placement (case management with justice-involved adolescents and adults and outpatient psychodynamic therapy).

Rachel's personal philosophy on therapy is, "It's a unique space in which we have time to slow down, process difficult feelings and experiences, and find our power with the support of a non-judgmental, supportive therapist. I use a strengths-based individualized approach that draws out the client’s unique perspective and experiences to create desired personal and relational change while providing supportive feedback and emotional, cognitive, and behavioral skill development."

Specialties:

• Crisis Intervention/Suicidiality
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Life Transitions
• Gender and Sexuality

“Often times people struggle to communicate their needs to others
effectively, resulting in not feeling heard and invalidated. I can be that pathway to empower people to express themselves and have their needs met in a safe and healthy way.”

• Click here to see the most common challenge she helps adults face
• Click here to learn about how Parent Child Interaction Therapy can help
• Click here to see how Megan works with children

Specialties:

• Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
• Trauma
• Abuse/Neglect
• Attachment
• Foster care
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Family dynamics/relationships

Victoria's approach to therapy includes developing a strong therapeutic relationship with the
client and ensuring the sessions are individualized to the client with creative interventions and evidence-based strategies that are relevant to their concerns. "Therapy is a safe space for feeling seen and heard, learning about oneself, and growing through our experiences."

Victoria says she chose this profession because she is passionate about helping people discover their inner strength, build secure relationships, process difficult experiences, and practice self-compassion to heal and thrive. "Everyone has inherent strengths that make them unique and resilient. We can heal through our relationships to others and through improving the relationship we have with ourselves."

She was a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis with a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health in 2020. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

Before coming to Provident Behavioral Health, Victoria was a social worker at Every Child's Hope for nearly 2 years, where she provided intensive outpatient individual and family therapy. She has worked in the social services, child welfare, and mental health fields for 7 years.

During her undergraduate years from 2012-2014, Victoria worked in psychology research labs on Mizzou’s campus as a research assistant. She also has experience in early childhood education and worked at a preschool after her undergraduate years. From 205-2017, she worked at a transitional living group home for teenagers and from 2016-2018, she was a community support specialist for children and adolescents with severe and persistent mental illness. Victoria began her clinical practicum at Keystone Mental Health with Our Little Haven, where she provided individual therapy to children and completed her foundation practicum at ALIVE, providing services to survivors of intimate partner violence.

Specializations

• Adults and Older Adults
• Abuse/Neglect
• Foster Care
• Adoption
• LGBTQ+ Issues
• Families
• Self-Injury
• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Depression

Emory says she chose this profession because she wants to give back to her community and help others. "As people we all have unique strengths, needs, goals, and abilities.  Therapy offers a space for individuals to display those strengths, better understand their needs, and work toward their goals. I want to help others on that journey and provide a safe space to do so."

Emory is a recent graduate of the Brown School of Washington University in St Louis where she graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in clinical mental health. Her undergraduate degree is from Mississippi State University with a  BA of Sociology.

Before coming to Provident Behavioral Health, Emory worked in an elementary school for a year before completing her Master's degree. During her Master's studies she also worked as a graduate research assistant and completed a practicum at a local non-profit serving individuals living with disabilities through art modalities. Emory also completed a practicum at Provident’s Access Center serving a range of clients with many different life experiences.

Emory also has additional experience in cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, and art therapy.

Specializations

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Self-esteem
• LGBTQIA+ concerns
• Trauma
• Artistic Expression Methods

"My goal as a counselor is to foster a safe and nonjudgmental space in which people have the freedom to explore their inner selves, their source of pain, and the path towards growth. I value this therapeutic process and strive to ensure this level of care with each individual. It’s a great honor to witness someone embrace vulnerability and work towards change."  

Gabby holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Minor in Childhood Studies from Stockton University. She graduated from Webster University with a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and has been working with adults in a therapeutic capacity since 2018. Gabby often utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a therapeutic framework to explore the interconnectedness of one’s thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. Gabby is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which uses bilateral stimulation to reprocess traumatic events into more adaptive memory networks and promote healing.

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Self-Esteem
• Identity
• LBGTQ+ Concerns
• Trauma

Specialties:

• LGBTQIA+
• Gender and Sexuality
• Eating Disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief/Loss, Trauma

"I believe individuals require determination, open mindedness, patience, tolerance, and one layer of unconditional support to find what they are seeking in counseling.  If nothing else, I am perpetually humbled and honored by the opportunity to be a piece of my client's support system"

Andrew chose the field of clinical mental health counseling during the midst of his own therapeutic journey. He switched careers from sports and entertainment marketing to professional healing for one reason – Andrew found purpose and passion while treating his own mental anguish, and he hopes to assist others in doing the same. He received his undergraduate degree from Lehigh University in 2005 and a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Missouri - St Louis in 2021 and has achieved level two as a Gottman Certified Couples Therapist.

Andrew works from an existential theoretical framework while incorporating tenants of cognitive-behavioral therapy, explorative and interpretative narrative therapy, structural family therapy, and social learning theory.

Andrew's videos:

How to tell if your child is struggling
How to tell others about your mental health challenges
Are my stress levels normal?
What is your philosophy for addressing substance misuse?

Specialties:

• Career Counseling
• Athlete-related Issues
• Substance Misuse
• Harm Reduction
• Couples, Family Systems
• Complex Trauma
• Grief
• Depression
• Anxiety

"It is my goal to provide clients with a safe and nonjudgmental environment which allows them to identify their strengths, develop beneficial skills, and embrace their whole self."

Since 2020, Jai has been providing services to clients, such as individual counseling, crisis intervention, and mental health assessments. He states,  "Therapy is for everyone. It’s a space for us to pause for a moment, focus on ourselves, and better understand our thoughts and our needs." 

Jai received a Master’s of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Missouri – St. Louis and has received additional trainings in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills. He uses an eclectic counseling approach with interventions based in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Specialties:

• Suicide/Crisis Intervention
• LGBTQIA+
• Gender Identity and Sexuality
• Athlete-related Issues
• Trauma
• Depression
• Anxiety

*Jai Wilson will be at the Northwest location only on Tuesdays

"I believe every person has the strength and capability to overcome challenges and become the happiest and healthiest version of themselves."

 Brittany Casnar has a Master's in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University.  She uses an integrated approach to provide individualized therapy to clients of all ages; assisting them in gaining personal insight, learning new ways to cope with everyday life, and processing difficult life experiences in a safe and judgement-free space.

Ms. Casnar works with clients of all ages in an individual or family setting.

Specialties:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Self-esteem
• Mood disorders
• Trauma
• Grief/Loss
• Relationship Improvement
• Common Life Stressors (work, interpersonal relationships, etc.)
• Child and Adolescent Issues
• Life Transitions (change of employment, divorce, retirement, etc.)
• Suicide/Self-harm
• Pre-menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

"Mental health is finally starting to get the recognition and understanding that it deserves, and I’m proud to be an advocate and a voice for those who didn’t get the opportunity or safe space to be heard in a time when those issues were not discussed or “swept under the rug.”"

Rachel obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology to learn more about the human body with the ultimate goal to become a doctor, she then decided to shift her focus to learning more about how to help others struggling with mental health issues. She continued her education to obtain her Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Maryville University and Doctorate in Psychology from California Southern University. "I’ve always been the one others turned to for help or assistance growing up, so it felt like a natural choice for me to continue on the path of helping others.  I also had the opportunity to watch my mother do this type of work in our community during my teenage years, so I began fundraising and leading others to provide help from a very young age."

Rachel feels it's important for her to help in providing an education to the future mental health providers, which she's been given the opportunity to do through being an adjunct professor in the Psychology Department at St. Louis University this year, as well as the amazing opportunity to lead current mental health providers at Mary Ryder Home as the Clinical Supervisor.