Meet Our Expert Therapists-
Your Partners in Healing

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re already going through a lot. You don’t want to tell your story over and over. You don’t want to feel judged or misunderstood. You just want to find someone who gets it and who can actually help.

At Healing Connections Counseling, we know how important that connection is. That’s why we focus on more than just techniques- we focus on people. Our team is made up of warm, real, down-to-earth therapists who are trained in EMDR, CBT, and other evidence-based approaches. But more than that, we’re here to make you feel seen, safe, and supported.

We work with kids, teens, and adults, and we tailor therapy to what you need- not just what a textbook says should work.

Take your time, read our bios, and trust your gut. We want you to find the right fit- whether it’s with us or someone else.

Joshua Holmes, LCSW

Owner/Director

Areas of specialization: Trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety

Ages 16 and up

You’re not looking for someone to just nod and ask how that makes you feel. You want real progress. You want your life to feel more manageable, your relationships to feel more balanced, and your entire life to feel more like you are living it on purpose.

Josh is a straightforward, goal-focused therapist who helps teens and adults navigate life transitions, relationship challenges, trauma, and the stress of figuring out what’s next. He’s especially skilled at supporting loved ones of those struggling with mental illness—helping them focus on what’s within their control and find peace in the middle of tough situations. Josh brings warmth, clarity, and a practical approach to therapy, guiding clients toward progress that feels real and sustainable.

In our office, Josh is known for being the one who makes friends everywhere he goes- the gym, the grocery store, you name it. People naturally open up to him… and his lawn has the straightest lines you’ve ever seen.

Chera Mann, LCSW

Owner/Director

Areas of specialization: Trauma/PTSD, Sexual abuse, Dissociation, Parenting 

Ages 14 and up

You’ve worked hard to build a life you care about- especially as a mom or fellow therapist-but past trauma or sexual abuse still lingers beneath the surface. You love your family, and your job but sometimes it’s hard to feel fully present. You notice yourself getting snappy and irritated and it makes you feel guilty. You don’t need to start over- you just need a space to heal what’s underneath.

I’m EMDR-certified and IFS-trained, and I focus on deep, lasting healing- not just surface-level coping. I’m direct, but gentle, and I believe therapy doesn’t have to feel heavy or intimidating. We laugh, we go deep, and we work toward real change.

In our office, I’m lovingly known as “the fun killer”- because I get straight to the heart of what matters. But I promise, I’ll always meet you with warmth and humor so you can approach the things that have felt scary without getting too overwhelmed.




Amy Brown, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialization: Narcissistic abuse, anxiety, trauma, teens, behavioral issues, DBT

Ages 6 and up

When you’ve been hurt by someone you trusted, it can shake your entire foundation. Suddenly, everything feels uncertain- your emotions, your relationships, even the way you feel about yourself. 

This is where Amy comes in. Amy is a steady, compassionate therapist who helps clients heal from trauma, betrayal, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. She works with children (10+), teens, and women navigating intense emotions, difficult relationships, or painful pasts.

Using EMDR, DBT, and CBT, Amy helps clients feel more confident, grounded, and safe- in themselves and in their relationships. Her calm presence and honest approach create a space where real healing can begin.

In our office, Amy is the one we all say we’d go to in an emergency- she’s calm under pressure, fiercely loyal, and the person you want by your side when things get hard.


Brandon Nielsen, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialization: ADHD, anxiety, trauma, teens, behavioral issues, DBT

Ages 8 and up

You’re tired of being told to “calm down” or “just focus”- like it’s that easy. Your brain won’t slow down, your emotions hit hard, and it feels like no one gets it. You just want a therapist that you don’t have to constantly explain all of this to.

Brandon works with teens and young adults who feel overwhelmed, distracted, or emotionally intense. He helps clients manage ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and self-harm using DBT, EMDR, and CBT-but more than anything, he meets them where they’re at. Therapy with Brandon is relaxed, real, and never judgmental.

In our office, Brandon is known for his quick wit and sharp mind- he’s the guy who can crack a poop joke and help you see something in a completely new way, all in the same breath. He has a knack for breaking tension, keeping things real, and offering fresh perspective when you need it most.

Jayden Freeman, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialization: Young Adults, High Functioning Anxiety, Trauma, Behavior Problems, Sexual Trauma, ERP

Ages 16 and up

You thought you’d have life figured out by now- but instead, you feel lost, stuck, or unsure of who you even are. Maybe you’re overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling in relationships, or noticing patterns from the past you can’t seem to shake. Whether you’re carrying old trauma, navigating big life changes, or just trying to feel more in control- this space is for you.

Jayden is a grounded, relatable therapist who specializes in helping teens and young adults navigate trauma, relationships, and the messiness of becoming an adult. He uses EMDR, ERP, and CBT to help clients process the past, address obsessive thoughts, improve emotional regulation, and feel more confident in who they are and where they’re headed.

Whether you’re untangling identity, struggling with relationships, or trying to move forward after a painful experience, Jayden brings clarity, insight, and a deep belief in your ability to grow.

In our office, Jayden is the one who makes everyone laugh- his timing is perfect, his wit is sharp, and his energy is the kind you just want to be around. Talking to Jayden feels like talking to a really good friend- except, you know… he’s your therapist, so you can’t hang out after.



Liz Geldmacher, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialty: Trauma, relationship issues, couples, behavior management, high functioning anxiety, work stress/burnout

Ages 14 and up

You’ve done everything you’re “supposed” to do. Maybe you’ve even tried therapy before, but the stress, worry, or past pain just won’t let up. You’re tired of coping strategies that feel like band-aids and want real change. If you are stuck in patterns that aren’t working and ready to face things head-on, Liz is here for it.

Liz is a direct, results-driven therapist who helps teens and adults break through anxiety, trauma, and stuck patterns. She’s passionate about helping clients move from just surviving to truly changing the way they think, feel, and show up in their lives. With advanced training in EMDR, ERP, and CBT, Liz helps clients get to the root of what’s holding them back and start building something better.

She won’t sugarcoat things- but she’ll always be in your corner, guiding you with honesty, clarity, and a deep belief in your ability to grow.

In our office, Liz is known for her “Lizdom”- that rare mix of grounded wisdom, sharp insight, and personal strength. She’s the one we all turn to when we need a reality check or a fresh perspective. We’re often caught asking ourselves, “What would Liz do?” and we joke that we might need to get some WWLD bracelets.




Taylor Welty, CSW

Therapist

Areas of specialization: Narcissistic abuse, Trauma, EMDR, anxiety, depression, young adults, life changes, co-dependence, narcissistic abuse

Ages 14 and up

Life doesn’t feel the way you thought it would. You imagined being more confident, more at peace, more connected- but instead, you’re overwhelmed and stuck in patterns of taking care of everyone else instead of taking care of yourself. It feels like you are always having to perform and it’s honestly exhausting.

Taylor helps adults navigate trauma, anxiety, and life transitions with focus, warmth, and expert use of EMDR. Therapy with her is grounded, compassionate, steady, and focused on reaching your goals.

In our office, Taylor is known for being the calm in the chaos. She can relax and have fun, but she knows how to be serious too. She’s the one who always knows what’s next, keeps things moving, and somehow makes EMDR feel less like a mystery and more like magic.



Matysen Evensen, CSW

Therapist

Areas of specialty: Teens, Anxiety, Family Issues, LGBTQIA+, Kids, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Ages 5 and up

Your thoughts can be loud, relentless, and hard to escape. You replay conversations you had with people, worry you’re “too much,” or get stuck in spirals that leave you exhausted with no solution figured out.

Here’s how Mattie helps. Mattie is a warm, thoughtful therapist who helps clients learn to escape overwhelming, intrusive thoughts, navigate anxiety, and reconnect with who they are. She works with children (5+), teens, and adults- especially those who feel stuck in intense thought patterns of overthinking or emotionally weighed down. Drawing from ACT, CBT, DBT, and a holistic lens, Mattie gently helps clients shift unhelpful thinking and find a deeper sense of balance and clarity.

In our office, Mattie is the one who always asks the question that makes you pause- in the best way. She’s kind, supportive, and insightful, with a great sense of humor and a grounded presence. She’s the kind of therapist who makes you feel safe and inspired to grow.

Stefanie Petersen, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialty: Trauma, behavior management, anxiety, teens, depression

Ages 15 and up

With 12 years of experience as a mental health therapist, I am passionate about helping  individuals navigate life’s challenges and find meaningful change. I work with both adults and adolescents, creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.

I take a strengths-based approach, believing that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing. Whether you’re working through anxiety, trauma, life transitions, or other struggles, I tailor therapy to fit your unique needs. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a powerful tool for processing trauma and overcoming barriers to healing.

My goal is to provide a therapy experience that feels approachable, effective, and empowering—helping you move forward with clarity and confidence



Bryce Bexell, MSW-I

Therapist intern

Areas of specialization: CBT, Teens, Adults, thinking problems, anxiety, depression

Ages 15 and up

Overthinking Everything? Struggling to Stay on Track? Let’s Fix That. Your mind won’t slow down.

You second-guess yourself constantly, overanalyze conversations, and feel like you’re always one step behind. Maybe you struggle with impulsive decisions, procrastination, or keeping up with responsibilities. Whether it’s anxiety, ADHD-like behaviors, or years of just white-knuckling through life, you’re exhausted. And you’re ready for a real change. If you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed and ready to take back control, let’s get started. You don’t have to keep spinning your wheels – I can help.

Outside of therapy, I enjoy hiking, running, reading, traveling, and spending time with my son. And if I’m not doing that, you’ll probably find me at a poker table (because therapy and strategy games have more in common than you’d think).