福利小视频

Pre-Clinically Active

Briana Beaubrun

My name is Briana Beaubrun I’m originally from Delray Beach, Florida, and I come from a proud Haitian background that has deeply shaped who I am and the work I feel called to do. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Florida State University, with a minor in Child Development. My studies, along with my lived experience, sparked a passion for supporting immigrant communities especially those who often feel unseen or misunderstood in the mental health system.

As a future Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to provide culturally sensitive, accessible therapy for immigrants and families navigating the complex challenges of adapting to a new environment while holding on to their roots. I’m especially passionate about helping individuals heal generational trauma, improve communication, and build healthier relationships.

Outside of therapy, I enjoy working out for stress, building legos, and taking nature walks for a clear mind.

Ashanti Benjamin

Hi! My name is Ashanti Benjamin. I grew up in Warner Robins, Ga, and Tampa, FL. I currently live in Valdosta, Ga. I graduated from 福利小视频 with a bachelor's degree in psychology. I want to be a marriage and family therapist because I am passionate about human relationships and their impact on our lives. I believe that the relationships we have with people are important. I also want to help people and bring a positive light into their lives. My goal is to be the best therapist I can be by providing a safe and trusting environment. I am so grateful for this opportunity to be part of this program.

 Abby Blake

Hi! My name is Abby Blake and I’ve lived in Valdosta for 8 years. I graduated from 福利小视频 in 2023 with a BA in psychology. I was able to do an internship with the MFT program during my final semester before graduating. I was able see what it looks like to be in the field of therapy, and saw how impactful therapy can be. My goal in becoming a therapist is to help people climb over the mountain they feel like they just can’t get past, in-turn moving forward and living a more fulfilling life. We live in a complicated world with even more complicated emotions. I'm striving to become a therapist that can bring hope back into the picture. My heart is to work with families and married individuals to help bring healing to the home. In the long run I would like to open up my own private practice. I'm looking forward to this program and all the things I will learn about the world of therapy, along with how to truly help people to become the best versions of themselves.   

Tucker Burkhalter

Hello! My name is Tucker Burkhalter, and I have lived in Valdosta, GA my whole life. I began my journey toward Marriage and Family Therapy at Georgia Military College, where I enrolled in my first psychology course. I graduated with an Associate of Science in Psychology in 2022. In December 2024, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from 福利小视频. That same year, I married my wonderful wife, Taylor. She, and many wonderful professors, friends, and family have helped me to get here. I am so excited to be continuing my journey at 福利小视频. I see immense value in my own relationships, and I hope to foster meaningful relationships for others.

Catie Cox

Hi, my name is Catie Cox. I am a Valdosta native and have lived here all my life, except for my time in undergrad in Athens, GA at UGA—Go Dawgs! In Athens, I studied Psychology and Human Development and Family Science, which furthered my interest in and resolve to pursue a career in therapy. My classes there led me to the opportunity to interview two therapists and shadow a session.

I want to work with and help a variety of clients, including couples, individuals, and children. A passion of mine, which I hope to learn more about and act on, is advocating for children. I’m excited to be part of the Marriage and Family Therapy program at 福利小视频, where I know I’ll continue to grow both personally and professionally. I look forward to developing my strengths, working through challenges, and ultimately becoming the kind of therapist who can truly make a difference.

 Hailey Duek

Hi! My name is Hailey Duek and I'm from Pembroke Pines, Florida. I graduated from Florida State University with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Sociology. While at FSU, I had the opportunity to work directly with a diverse group of couples in the Contextual and Automatic Influences in Relationships (CAIR) Lab, and this experience combined with volunteering for the National Suicide Crisis Text Line furthered my passion for assisting those struggling to navigate conflicts. I am excited to help others (and myself) learn to deal with the tough times and revel in the good times. Outside of school, I love baking, movies, old music, hiking, and exploring new places. I also love trying new things, such as surfing and zip-lining. I am ecstatic to continue my education at 福利小视频 and grow, both as a human and as a therapist.

Kenzie Eikenberry

Hi! My name is Kenzie Eikenberry. Being part of a military family, I was born in Alamogordo, New Mexico, but moved to Valdosta, Georgia where my mother's family is from when I was two years old and have remained ever since. I earned my B.A. in Psychology from 福利小视频 in May 2024, where I had the privilege of completing the Family Works Marriage and Family Therapy undergraduate internship. While I have always been passionate about mental health, this internship deepened my appreciation for the structure and support of 福利小视频’s MFT Graduate Program and encouraged my desire to attend.

Following graduation, I took a year to get married, move, reflect, and embrace new life experiences. During that time, I worked as a Community Support Individual with Choices For Life of Georgia, where I supported children and families in improving communication, learning coping skills, and accessing additional resources. This role further inspired my commitment to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges.

My long-term goal is to establish a private practice that provides a safe and empathetic space for individuals, couples, and families. I am especially passionate about reframing therapy as not only a response to crisis but also as a form of “preventative maintenance,” by providing a comfortable, growth-focused space, encouraging people to better understand themselves, strengthen relationships, and foster greater compassion and understanding throughout communities.

Zay Elize

Hello everyone, my name is Zay Elize, and I am from Orlando, FL. I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. My decision to pursue a career as a Marriage and Family Therapist was deeply influenced by my time serving in the Marine Corps. During that time, I witnessed many fellow Marines, some of them close friends, struggle with mental health, relationships, and family challenges. Unfortunately, many were hesitant or even opposed to seeking help, which sometimes led to serious personal and professional consequences. This experience motivated me to become an MFT so I can provide the kind of support that could make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families facing similar struggles. My goal once I complete the program is to one day be able to work within the military community and serve those who serve us.

Alizeta Guira

My name is Alizeta Guira, and I’m from the Acworth/Kennesaw area of Georgia. I earned my undergraduate degree from Kennesaw State University, where I majored in Psychology and minored in Criminology. After completing my degree, I took some time away from school to gain financial stability and try and figure out what I truly wanted to pursue in graduate studies.

While working as a nanny, I began observing the dynamics of different family structures and the behaviors that developed within them. I found myself making meaningful connections between what I had learned in my undergrad and what I was witnessing in real time. These experiences sparked a deep interest in understanding how families function, ultimately leading me to the field of Marriage and Family Therapy.

As a West African Muslim, I’ve seen firsthand how generational, cultural, and religious factors can deeply influence the way families handle conflict and communication. In my community, topics like marital and familial challenges are often neglected and brushed off. I hope to shine a light on these issues and challenge the beliefs that may be holding us back. My goal is to help break harmful cycles and contribute to healthier, more open relationships for generations to come.

Georgia Hall

Hi, I am Georgia Hall, and I am from Valdosta, GA. I earned my bachelor's in psychology from 福利小视频. During the same time, I did an internship at the FamilyWorks clinic here which only solidified my decision to pursue a career in marriage and family therapy. My passion is to help individuals be the best version of themselves that they can be. I am so excited for this opportunity and Go Blazers!!

Alla Hurt

My name is Alla Hurt, and I am from Cordele, Georgia. I spent the last four years attending the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia, where I graduated in December of 2024 with a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences. I fell in love with the field of Psychology during my senior year of high school when I began brainstorming careers in which there was a heavy emphasis on helping individuals with their mental health and the factors that impact it. I then pursued an undergraduate degree in Psychology, and through my time in lecture halls and discussions with peers, began to feel a calling to the field of therapy. The field of Marriage and Family Therapy piqued my interest because of my own experiences in therapy that involved my family. In the future, I plan to work with children and adolescents, with their families, to navigate the many challenges life throws their way. I am looking forward to growing my knowledge and understanding of the wonderful field of MFT over the next two years!

Reese Kelly

Hello, my name is Reese Kelly, and I'm from Augusta, Georgia. I recently graduated from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, with a B.A. in psychology. I originally heard about Valdosta's Marriage and Family Therapy program from a presentation given at Morehouse. This presentation got me interested in the field, and I looked into the program here at Valdosta.

That same summer, I had an internship at a behavioral health hospital. While there, I saw the importance of families and spouses in a patient's outcome or recovery. When these patients had therapy with family or a spouse, it helped them in the long run to know what they needed to work towards. They felt like they had support and were working through any differences while receiving help. After this realization, I knew I wanted to go into this field and help other families work through their differences.

I believe it is important to have representation within the therapy field. There are times when families, couples, or individuals may not seek help due to not seeing someone who looks like themselves. Going into this field, I want to be that representation that may encourage those who look like me to get therapy and know that it can be beneficial.

I am excited to continue my journey here at Valdosta! I believe this program will prepare me best for the work that needs to be done in the field.

I wanted to go into Marriage and Family Therapy because I want to help families come back together.

Kylie Lewis

Hi, my name is Kylie Lewis. I grew up mostly here in Valdosta Georgia, but after I graduated high school, I left to attend the University of Florida. While at UF I pursued bachelor's degrees in both Psychology and English, which I received in the fall of 2024. After graduating, I took a semester to figure out the next step in my academic career and found the MFT program here at 福利小视频. I think marriage and family therapy particularly stood out to me because of the theoretical background it uses. I am very excited about this program and really appreciate all the different ways it trains us to be impactful clinicians.

I have worked before as a dance instructor mainly teaching children aged 2-7, and this experience definitely led me to take an interest in working therapeutically with children and families. I also took some amazing courses in undergrad focusing on human attraction, which has also led me to be very interested in working with couples.

I am intent on supporting a diversity focused approach when learning how to interact with clients and feel like those goals can be supported here at the Family Works Clinic. I feel like my time here has been and will be invaluable to my development as a therapist and am excited to start this chapter.

Ashton Middleton

My name is Ashton Middleton and I grew up in Alpharetta GA. I got my bachelors in psychology from Lee University in TN. With a college athlete background, I plan on getting licensed and going into the field of sports psychology through a faith based lense and holistic approach as well as specializing in athletes with eating disorders. In my free time I enjoy reading, CrossFit, yoga, exercise, and travelling.

Yoselyn Molina Melendez

I am originally from El Salvador, but I grew up in Atlanta. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from 福利小视频 in May 2025. During my undergraduate studies, I explored various graduate programs in the mental health field and discovered Marriage and Family Therapy. This field stood out to me as the best fit for the type of therapist I aspire to become, because it allows me to support individuals and families in finding balance and growth. I want to become a Marriage and Family Therapist because I genuinely enjoy helping others find their direction in life. I believe each person has their unique journey that deserves recognition and care.

I am excited and grateful for this opportunity to be part of something amazing.

Ashley Moss

Hi everyone, my name is Ashley Moss, but you can just call me Ashley! I received my bachelor's degree here at 福利小视频 (福利小视频). I wanted to learn about multiple fields of studies in my undergrad, therefore a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Psychology, Sociology and English was the best choice for me. As I continue my academic endeavors with 福利小视频's Masters of Marriage and Family Therapy program, I am eager to learn more about myself and understanding how to support individuals, families, couple and specifically children, in a therapeutic way. I have always had a passion for helping others. Being a therapist isn't just a career for me; it is the purpose the God has called me to fulfill. I have had many trials and tribulations and understand that sometimes we just need someone to be there. My hope is to be the light at the end of the tunnel for my clients.

I look forward to meeting you all soon!

Barilule Mtuanwi

Hello, my name is Barilule Mtuanwi, and I am originally from Metro Atlanta. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology here at 福利小视频, and I am proud to be a double-blazer! I am pursuing a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy because I aspire to work with families and individuals seeking to better their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. I am most passionate about working with children, especially first-generation children of immigrant parents. I look forward to using the skills I gain in this program to make a lasting difference in the lives of the families, individuals, and children I serve.

Rissa Newsum

Hi everyone! My name is Rissa, and my family currently lives in Helen, GA. I graduated from Georgia College & State University in the summer of 2025 with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice. I have always had a passion for helping families, and for the last year I have had the privilege of being a social emotion coach at a local preschool. It is my goal to become a licensed therapist and work with underserved communities in North Georgia.

Kimmie Nguyen

"Xin chào! I’m Kimmie. I grew up in Vietnam, where family dinners and bustling street food stalls taught me how much love is shared through food. I studied International Business, but life took me on another path. While teaching English online, a student once told me, “Our lessons feel like coaching sessions that lighten my heart.” That moment planted a seed in me, the desire to help people not just with words, but with their hearts.

Guided by my own transformational coach, I began healing old wounds and learning to believe that I was enough. From there, I started supporting other women as a self-love coach. Along the way, I discovered how family histories and cultural patterns shape the way we love and connect.

That realization is what brought me to the MFT program. Now, I’m excited to learn, grow, and contribute alongside the inspiring community here and to one day create bilingual spaces where Asian women can heal, reconnect, and thrive."

Rylie Parham

Hello everyone! My name is Rylie Parham, and I am from Valdosta Georgia. I recently graduated from 福利小视频 with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in May 2025. I am pursuing MFT because I want to empower people by allowing them to have a voice and to help them navigate daily life circumstances. I look forward to working with a wide range of clients, but I am particularly interested in working with children because they hold a special place in my heart. I am excited and thankful to start this new journey!

Tina Randle

My name is Christene Randle, and I’m from Tifton, Georgia. I graduated from ABAC in 2025 with a B.S. in Rural Community Development (Community Health concentration), and I will begin the M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy at Valdosta State in Fall 2025.

I’m pursuing MFT because I care deeply about helping people and families work through challenges and grow into their best selves. I have a special interest in serving veterans and military-connected families, while remaining committed to supporting anyone who needs help.

My path has included facilitating a campus grief panel, which affirmed my commitment to compassionate, community-oriented care. I opened the discussion, directed questions to panelists, and kept the conversation moving so attendees felt heard and supported. The experience introduced me to trauma-informed communication and gave me hands-on practice in active listening and real-time moderation—skills I’m eager to bring to clinical practice.

Outside of academics, I enjoy DIY projects—from custom T-shirts to small home upgrades—and gardening. As a mom of four and a veteran spouse, I bring empathy, practicality, and resilience to my clinical work. My long-term goal is to build a private practice while also serving clients through the VA.

Taylor Richards

My name is Taylor Richards and I'm from Atlanta GA. I am an alumna at 福利小视频 with my BA Psychology degree. My passion runs deeply in growth, learning, and accomplishing new goals. I am striving to have a government funded program to educate peoples all around the world about therapy. Becoming a therapist has always been a passion of mine since i was a child, and i am fulfilling my path. I graduated as a psychology major, i knew that just being a psychologist was not my niche, i wanted something where i can dive a beep deeper and have a strong communication skill. I did my research on this program 2 yrs ago and wanted to pursue due to having accredited courses and licensure help. Which were my big go too. After doing my internship Fall 23 with the MFT team; i knew this was a program i wanted to get my Masters in.

Caroline Skinner

Hi! My name is Caroline Skinner. I am originally from Birmingham, AL, but travelled consistently in my high school and adult life before finding my way to Valdosta via my husband and Moody AFB. I graduated from the University of Alabama - Birmingham in December of 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, minoring in Social Work and Communication Management. Through my own life experience, I found that I have a passion to work alongside military families as they experience and engage with the changes and loss that can come from the lifestyle they live. I want to be there for this group of humans and care for them in ways that I did not have, improving upon the narrative on what it means to be a military kid and spouse. Along this line, I would love to eventually work alongside families within the foster care system through reunification therapy. I hope that my professional career is filled with bringing families back together by creating strong foundations. I am so excited to be here and to get started learning, growing, and applying any and all knowledge the program has for me!

Lindsey Sparks

Hi! My name is Lindsey Sparks, and I am originally from Fort Valley, GA, but was raised in Brunswick, GA. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in music from 福利小视频, where I initially transferred in 2022 to pursue music education. However, I soon discovered my true calling was in the field of psychology and mental health. I am a passionate advocate for mental health and child development.

Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, with plans to continue on to earn a doctorate in child psychology. My ultimate goal is to become a child psychologist working in a hospital setting, supporting children and families facing medical challenges and trauma. I am deeply committed to serving this vulnerable population, providing comfort, guidance, and therapeutic care during some of the most difficult times in their lives.

In addition to clinical work, I have a strong interest in research, particularly in the areas of neurodivergence, the mental health of musicians, and have researched other topics within the field.

 Gloria Stanley

Hello, my name is Gloria Stanley, and I am from West Palm Beach, FL but was raised here in Valdosta, GA. I earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology from 福利小视频. While completing my undergraduate degree I began working in the correctional department. Seeing so many young men of color in the correctional system doing years and years of time for crimes committed , I finally decided to switch careers after seeing come graphic things inside the prison walls. I then got move careers to working with individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities. 

In this current role I noticed how much family played a role in someone’s life no matter their developmental issues and  even how much family played a role in my past career choice. So, I began doing research of how I could be of service which led me to begin researching Marriage and Family Therapy. 

With this found knowledge I began researcher schools that offer Marriage and Family Therapy for diversity backgrounds. This meant so much to because I have always heard be the change you want to see. After earning my degree, I want to do just that; become the difference in someone’s life that makes them become the difference in their own life. 

Madison Williams

My name is Madison Williams (I go by Maddie) and I am from Valdosta, Ga. I graduated from 福利小视频 with a B.S in psychology. I’m pursuing the Marriage and Family therapy because I want a different perspective on the world. I care very deeply about families, and I want families and individuals to thrive in the world. I want to give them tools to strengthen their relationship, not only to their families but to other relationships. I have always wanted to do something in mental health, I want to destigmatize therapy and mental health.

Outside of academics, I love to read. I read anything that is fantasy, thrill rides, and romance. I love to hang out with my family on my free time. My family is everything to me and that is another reason why I am so passionate about families.

Clinically Active

 Christin Brown

Hi everyone! My name is Christin Brown. I am from Covington, Georgia where I was born and raised. I recently graduated here from 福利小视频 in May 2024 where I graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. I’m now continuing my academic journey in the Marriage and Family Therapy program, where I’m excited to deepen my understanding of human relationships and apply therapeutic practices to support individuals and families. I’m passionate about creating meaningful connections, navigating diverse perspectives, and working to create a positive impact in the lives of others. I am extremely filled with joy to have this opportunity to work with clients, staff and students! 

 Flavio Cano

Hi! My name is Flavio Cano. I am from Douglas, GA. I wanted to be an MFT because it has always been my goal in life to help others. No matter what I do, I want to make a good change in the world. I got my undergrad degree from Valdosta State. I am passionate about sports, art, and fitness. 

 Kristina Davis

Hello! My name is Kristina Davis, and I am from Dacula, Ga. I graduated from the University of Georgia in 2024 with my B.S in Psychology and a minor in Sociology. I fell in love with Psychology, so I decided to try different jobs and internships that would give me some experience and an idea of what I wanted to do. I ended up interning at a marriage and family therapy clinic, and I loved it. I knew that I needed to go into the field of MFT because it challenges me and I learn more and more everyday. I personally gained so much from therapy and now I want to be a part of that difference. I hope to have my own private practice one day, and remain an advocate for therapy!  I’m so happy to be here at 福利小视频, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds!  

 Iyanni Felder

Hi everyone! My name is Iyanni Felder but most people call me Yanni! I am originally from Jacksonville, Florida but I've been living in Valdosta, Georgia for 4 years now. I graduated May 2024 with a degree in Psychology from 福利小视频. I originally chose to study psychology because I have always been interested in human behavior. I decided to continue my studies and get my master's degree. I knew that I wanted to be a therapist when I began undergrad, however, I needed more information. I did the MFT undergraduate internship and knew that I wanted to continue my studies here. I have always had a love for helping others and being there for any of my friends or family. I know what it's like to feel misunderstood and my goal is to help people see that they are not alone. I am looking forward to a great 2 years of learning!

 Courtney Flournoy

Greetings! My name is Courtney Flournoy, I was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. Growing up I enjoyed partaking in cheerleading and flag football. In May of 2022 I graduated from 福利小视频 with a degree in Psychology. After graduation I pursued two careers before deciding to return to school for my master’s degree in the Marriage and Family Therapy program here at 福利小视频. I was a registered behavioral technician as well as a substance abuse counselor, both jobs helped me realize my passion for therapy. I relish in the opportunity to initiate conversations that inspire and ignite a difference. Upon graduating I plan to become a licensed marriage and family therapist and work collaboratively with other brilliant therapists. I would like to leave you all with a profound quote from a MFT required reading, it states, “Stories may have endings, but stories are never over.”- Edward Bruner 

 Hailey Fulton

Hi! My name is Hailey Fulton, and I am from Acworth, Georgia. I graduated from Georgia Southern University this past May with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I resided in Statesboro for the past four years, and now I am excited to be here in Valdosta to pursue my master’s in the Marriage and Family Therapy program. Through my undergrad program, I learned a lot of general psychological subjects and theories, but I always found myself drawn to the concept of relationships and attraction. Additionally, it has always been my goal to continue my studies in the counseling area of the field, so fortunately for me, the MFT program is able to guide me to a career that is a great match. I am looking forward to growing and expanding my work in the community here at 福利小视频!

 Brionni Gilbert

Hello everyone! My name is Brionni Gilbert hailing from Stockbridge, Ga. I began my educational journey at 福利小视频 and earned my undergraduate degree in Health Sciences. During my undergraduate career I became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and was heavily involved in serving the community of Valdosta. I enjoy anything that involves dancing and self-care. My goal in life is to be a role model to adolescent girls. I also plan to open my own therapy practice and wellness center. I am excited to continue my journey in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at 福利小视频.

 Cristi Gill

Hello, my name is Cristi Gill.  I am a Valdosta native.  I graduated from Lowndes High School and 福利小视频, respectively.  I received my bachelor’s degree in philosophy in 1999.  I chose Philosophy because I wanted answers to the “big questions” of life.  Well, philosophy taught me how to ask more questions, not answer them, but it also inspired me to change my way of thinking and to learn to accept and acknowledge the perspectives of others.  I believe this will serve me well in the Marriage and Family Therapy Program. I did take some time off between my bachelor's degree and this pursuit of my Master's.  I married my high school sweetheart and raised a family.  I have worked in human resources for the past 20 years and learned that my passion is listening to people's stories and finding the best way to help them.   I aim to become a Marriage and Family Therapist to continue to help serve people and foster their sense of connection in the best possible ways.

 Tanisha Goldsboro

Hi! My name is Tanisha Goldsboro. I was born and raised in South Jersey but moved to Georgia shortly before entering college. I received BAs in Psychology, as well as Sociology and Anthropology from 福利小视频. I enjoyed my studies so much that I returned for my Masters in Sociology. I have always loved academia and research. I have always known that I wanted to help people. So, it was important for me to combine those things that I loved and turn them into a passion. That is where I found Marriage and Family Therapy. I like to believe that in some ways it found me. I hope to take the tools that I have learned and one day open my own private practice emphasizing diversity and inclusion. “Be the change that you wish to see in the world” and that is what I plan to do.

 Donyale Haddley

Hi everyone! My name is Donyale Haddley. I am from Naylor, Ga. I grew up in the Valdosta area. I graduated from 福利小视频 where I got my Bachelor’s degree in Interpersonal Communication with a minor in Psychology. I have a passion for helping others. Everyone has a story to tell,  and I find fulfillment in being a listening ear. I found Marriage and Family Therapy to be the fit for me. This program will serve as an opportunity for me to grow as I learn the skills that will help me excel in this field. As I was growing up, I saw firsthand how so many families could have benefited from therapy, but they lacked the resources. With that being said, so many individuals and families struggled significantly. As long as I can help one person or family then I will be fulfilling my purpose.

 Joseph Harrell

Hello, my name is Joseph Harrell, I am from Douglas, Georgia I graduated from 福利小视频 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy in December of 2023. Before moving to Valdosta to pursue that degree I was enlisted in the Georgia Army National Guard from August of 2015 through August of 2021. While serving I found a passion for helping others, sometimes just by listening when they thought that no one else cared about their problems. By the end of my senior year of undergraduate studies I was accepted to the undergraduate internship that is offered by 福利小视频 at the FamilyWorks clinic, within a week I fell in love. From watching how faculty members engaged with their consultation teams, to seeing clients excited to meet with their therapists, I felt that I was in the right place. I am extremely excited to start this journey and feel honored that I have the opportunity to work with amazing faculty members, clients, and students.

 Alexandria Harvin

My name is Alexandria Harvin. I am a Valdosta native. I got my undergraduate degree From 福利小视频 in Psychology. I want to become a MFT because I feel like my purpose is to help others, by becoming a MFT, I feel like I'm doing just that.

 Emmadeya Johnson

Hello everyone! My name is Emmadeya Johnson. I graduated from The Unsinkable Albany State University with an Associate's degree in Science and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology in May and December of 2023. My dream career is to one day open up my own practice as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I know Valdosta State will be the place to help me accomplish that goal. One reason I wanted to become a Marriage and Family Therapist is because I love helping people become a better version of themselves. I have always been a listening ear to someone and am able to give advice whenever and wherever I can. I have always been interested in how people think and interact with each other, so I knew instantly what field I wanted to be a part of. When I was in undergrad and told one of my professors what I wanted to be after undergrad he told me about the top school for my program was Valdosta State. I immediately looked into the program and fell in love with the hands-on experiences I would gain, and the type of classes I would be taking. Once I had my interview with Dr. Laughlin, I knew that 福利小视频 was going to be my new home away from home. I am very excited to be a part of this program and accomplish my dream goal here at 福利小视频!!!

 Madison Johnson

Hello! My name is Madison Johnson. I was born and raised in Smyrna, Georgia in the same home my mother grew up in. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Outdoor Education from Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville, Georgia in 2024. I am now working to earn my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at 福利小视频. I first heard about this program from another student earning this degree and was hooked from that moment on.  

I have an immense love for animals and prior to attending GC&SU I wanted to be a veterinarian, but that plan quickly changed. I fell in love with psychology during my undergraduate studies and never looked back. I hope to combine my love of animals with my passion for helping people by becoming an animal assisted therapist after obtaining my Master's degree.  

I am so excited and grateful that I have this opportunity to learn and grow as a person and future therapist! 

  Bonny Mclendon

Hello, my name is Bonny Mclendon. I began my educational journey at Georgia Military College in Valdosta, GA where I obtained my associate’s degree in communication. I then transferred to 福利小视频 (福利小视频) where I completed my Bachelor’s of Fine Arts. After completing my undergraduate studies, my interest in mental health and social media got me thinking about my interest in counseling, which has brought me to the Family and Marriage Therapy master's program here at 福利小视频! I love that the program encourages creativity and improves communication. 

After completing the M&FT program I aim to build my own practice. My broad goals are situated in bettering the community through attention to mental health.  

I look forward to draw upon my previous educational experience to be successful in the M&FT program. I hope to develop as a therapist and learn how to build upon what I have learned over the years to help me pursue my dream to help others in my community 

 Emily Michael

Hello! My name is Emily Michael, I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from 福利小视频 in May 2023. I am from the McDonough area of Georgia but have resided in Valdosta for over three years now. I still have no sense of direction when it comes to getting somewhere although, I do love helping others find their direction. While going through undergraduate I fell in love with Psychology and then even more in love with helping individuals through tricky situations. Everyone has a voice and deserves to be seen and heard, which is the reason I chose this career. Marriage and family therapy encompasses sources outside oneself and focuses on helping rather than diagnosing, which also made it clearer to me that this is the career path. I am excited to continue learning more throughout 福利小视频’s MFT program and getting the opportunity to meet new people! 

 Kristen Mulford

Hi there! My name is Kristen Mulford and I am from Thomasville, Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from 福利小视频 in May 2024. Following my undergraduate studies, I had plans to pursue a career in occupational therapy, driven by a desire to support individuals with disabilities. However, through that experience, I became increasingly aware of the profound impact that family dynamics, relationships, and mental health have on an individual’s overall well-being. This systemic perspective ultimately led me to shift my focus and pursue a career as a Marriage and Family Therapist, where I can address the broader relational and emotional context surrounding a person’s challenges. I desire to take a holistic approach to care, believing that an individual’s well-being are interconnected and must all be considered to support meaningful change. By utilizing a systemic approach, I aim to provide thoughtful, personalized care that comprehensively considers each factor that influences one’s well-being. As I continue in my education and career, I hope to work with children, couples, and families of all backgrounds, exploring the context that shapes their lives.

 Joann Newlin

My name is Joann Newlin. Born in Long Beach, California, I have spent the majority of my life in Indiana, from Fort Wayne in the north to Greenville in the south. My husband and I raised our daughter in a log cabin on five acres of rural land until 2023 when she married and relocated to Fort Campbell with her husband. 

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Indiana University, New Albany, in the spring of 2024, despite undergoing treatment for breast cancer. After completing my final chemotherapy session in August, my husband and I relocated to Valdosta, where I was honored to be accepted into the Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Program. 

My professional goal is to establish a Couples Therapy practice in the Virgin Islands. My practice will focus on enhancing couples' communication skills and deepening their intimacy, incorporating therapeutic sessions with engaging activities such as snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, and nature hikes. I aim to help couples address current challenges and foster their growth as a healthy, thriving partnership. 

As I embark on these next two years of intensive training in systematic family therapy, I anticipate a rewarding and transformative journey. 

 Nikki Ray

Hello! My name is Nikki Ray. I earned my Bachelor’s in Human Sciences with a minor in Psychology from Florida State University. Originally from San Francisco, California, I relocated to Florida to advance my education. While pursuing my undergraduate studies, I initially focused on criminal psychology due to my longstanding interest in psychology. However, I discovered that I was much more interested in family systems and relationships which caused my switch to Human Sciences. After graduating from Florida State University, I worked as a Case Manager/SOAR Specialist at Apalachee Center's Homeless Project, where I provided mental health services to individuals with severe mental illness and their families. This hands-on experience deepened my appreciation for a systemic approach and ultimately led me to Valdosta's Marriage and Family Therapy program. I am eager to start this journey to become a Marriage and Family Therapist. 

 Kierra Richardson

Hello, my name is Kierra Richardson! Anneyounghaseyo, Chonuen Kierra-imnida! That’s the Korean version of saying Hello, my name is Kierra! Diversity is very important to me and I enjoy learning new languages in my free time. I graduated from Georgia College State University in 2021. I decided to go back to school to finish pursuing my dream of helping others and children. I have a desire to help children in foster care or the criminal justice system. The hands-on experience in this program is what caused me to proceed with applying here! 

I look forward to being challenged and how I will be able to use these skills with different communities and cultures!

 Noelle Spangler

Hi! I’m Noelle Spangler. I earned my degree in psychology from Georgia State University, with a minor in theater. My journey began with a love for the arts. Having studied acting, opera, and film, I understood that what truly drew me in was the sense of community and the complex task of bringing human characters to life. This realization led me to a holistic approach to therapy. 

My experience spans both clinical and cognitive psychology labs, where as a research assistant I worked on social and relational issues rooted mainly in violence, addiction, crime, and technology. After graduating, I developed a strong desire to work with individuals living with eating disorders. Due to this, I had the opportunity to work with children as young as 8, young adults, and older adults in a residential program within a mental hospital. 

Inspired by Esther Perel’s belief that “the quality of your life ultimately depends on the quality of your relationships,” I want to focus on strengthening the emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of individuals, couples, and families. I believe that to build stronger relationships, we must be willing to learn about all aspects of the human experience through system, context, and narrative. 

Through my work, I aim to help others develop deeper connections, greater cultural sensitivity, and holistic growth within their relationships and communities. 

  Makkiyya Thompson

 Ana Valdez

Hello! My name is Ana Valdez, and I am from Dalton, Georgia. I proudly received my Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Dalton State College in December 2023. I found out about the Marriage and Family Therapy field during one of my undergraduate courses that focused on different fields in psychology. As I researched numerous fields, I came across Marriage and Family Therapy and immediately knew this field is the one for me! I love many things about this field including that MFT focuses not only on mental health, but also the importance of relationships and how they affect one another in a systemic way.  

I am excited to be starting my journey here in the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at 福利小视频! I look forward to all of the knowledge and experiences that are yet to come!

  Makenna Westberry-Nix

Hi, my name is Makenna Westberry-Nix, and I’m from Warner Robins, Georgia. I graduated from Georgia Southern University in July 2023 with a B.S. in Psychology. A PSYCH 1101 class in my freshman year piqued my interest in the broader subject, and quickly I determined that my calling was not in the subfields of research and academia, but clinical intervention. I wanted to be the one to apply the research, methods, theories, and more to facilitate positive change in others’ lives. This, to me, is the most fulfilling and rewarding part of our field. 

I will be honored to work later with historically underserved communities, namely low income LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and families. Such people are very close to my heart, and I know that within this community, there are many rich stories waiting to be heard by a larger audience. 

福利小视频’s MFT program attracted me instantly based on its proud and unapologetic commitment to diversity and inclusion. These are non-negotiables for me, and the fact that the theories upon which Marriage & Family Therapy operates are open-minded by nature definitely helped me choose this field and this program. 

 Kaiya Williams

My name is Kaiya Williams, and I hail from the scenic heights of Denver, Colorado. While I
have always held a passion for change, my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Sociology at Coe College only reaffirmed my commitment to this cause. There, I dedicated a significant portion of my time to demonstrating the value of diverse perspectives and advocacy as a leader of color in non-diverse settings. I engaged in DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) training and its tangible implications on conversation, and I pursued culturally-deliberate research— considering the barriers many people of color face when seeking out therapy. However, a pivotal moment in my journey was my internship period with Young Parents Network, where I discovered how overgeneralizations and oversimplifications could cripple individuals by stripping them of their unique voices and stories. However, I am inspired by the belief that current realities are not fixed truths. Therefore, when I
strive after a MFT degree, my goal extends beyond the impact of individual families. My goal is to both revolutionize the way in which MFT is practiced and the accessibility to such resources to liberate minority couples from the suffocating grip of divorce. I want to rewrite the narrative of couples, families, and individuals, replacing despair with hope and dysfunction with strength. Because if we fail to do this, we compromise the potential for all that can or may be in the future. Therefore, I look forward to this journey and the opportunity it presents to bring us closer to that brighter tomorrow.

 Emma Wulff

Hi everyone! My name is Emma Wulff, and I am from Columbus, GA, but I have been up in Athens, GA for the last five years. I recently graduated from the University of Georgia as a double dawg, which is a wonderful program that allows you to take graduate classes during your undergraduate years. This allowed me to graduate back-to-back years with my Bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2023 and my Master’s degree in Human Development and Family Science in May 2024. At UGA, I worked at Alps Road Elementary School, which sparked my interest in working with children and families in the therapeutic setting. This spark became further ignited when I began working in the Elevate Couples Lab as a graduate assistant over the past year. Elevate Couples Georgia is a free, educational program dedicated to providing couples across Georgia with resources that they need to work on their communication skills together, manage conflict, and engage in healthy ways to build their relationship as time goes on. While working with the project, I spoke with many couples and followed along on their journey through Elevate, learning about the positive role that these skills can play in forming the way that couples interact with one another. I decided that I wanted to not only work with children and their families, but couples as well, and applied to the 福利小视频 MFT Program. Once I was interviewed here and saw the clinic, I knew it was the right choice for me. Moving forward in my education and career, I hope to work with children, families, and couples of all shapes and sizes and explore the context surrounding them in order to better provide care through a systemic lens of therapy.

  Tylan Wyatt

Hey everyone! My name is Tylan Wyatt, and I am from Conyers, Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology here at 福利小视频 in December of 2022, then took a bit of time off for myself and to really fight on what I wanted to do from there. While I was taking my leisurely break from school, mostly working my food service job and playing video games, my partner was going through the MFT program here. They had a lot of high praise for the program and though it took a long while for me to lose my misconceptions about the program I slowly fell in love with the idea of seeing the world and people as in their own context or reality. I want to help people to better understand what MFTs do while providing service to everyone that I can feasibly reach. I have always known that I wanted to help people, or be a form of support to others, but finding out how to do so took some time. This world is full of so many brilliant connections and relationships, and I cannot wait to see just how much I will learn from both faculty, colleagues, and clients alike.