Meet Our Students

Graduating Class of 2020

Kalyn Bowser

Hey there! My name is Kalyn Bowser. I graduated from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in May 2018. I pursued psychology with a goal of becoming a licensed counselor. Throughout my young adult years, the reality of broken families and abuse became real to me and my desire is to help with those situations to the best of my ability, which led me to the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at VSU. I found home in Valdosta during my undergraduate years and take great pride in being a Blazer. The campus brings me joy under the abundance of palm trees and I hold strong to the values VSU incorporates into the campus community, such as embracing diversity and plugging into community. This program holds diversity, hands-on practice, and digging into differentiating perspectives to high standards. So, I am excited to be continuing on in the VSU MFT program! I hope to one day be a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with young adult women who have suffered abuse.

Miriam Burton

I have lived all over the country, but I call Ohio home.  When I am not traveling you can find me out on a run, snuggled up with a book, or volunteering in my community.  Over the years I have worked with refugees, advocated for the incarcerated, and volunteered as a foster parent.  The experiences I have had working with these populations drew me to the field of Marriage and Family Therapy as I sought out better ways to serve them.  I love being involved in my community and am grateful for the many ways the MFT Program here at VSU has made that possible.  After graduation, I look forward to continuing my work with under-represented populations and at-risk youth.

James Caswell

Hi! My name is JD, and I am a Graduate Student in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Valdosta State University. I received my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from VSU in May 2017. I enjoy reading, baking, and tabletop board games. I chose VSU’s MFT program because they place an emphasis on the practical application of the things you learn in the classroom. I plan to pursue a doctorate degree, and I aspire to own a private counseling practice one day. 

Reed Drury

Hola, my name is Reed, and I’m stoked to be a part of the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Valdosta State.  I received my bachelor’s degree here, and after a little more than half a decade later I have found my way back.  I joined this program not only for the opportunity to connect with and help others, but also to affect change and growth within myself. I am married and have a family, so I figured this was the best place to start.

Lucas Elmore

Hello, my name is Lucas Elmore, and I am from LaGrange, Georgia. In 2017, I received my B.S. in Psychology at the University of West Georgia. What drew me to Valdosta State's Marriage and Family Therapy program is their emphasis on context and diversity, as well as the on-site clinic and the fully face-to-face classes. The faculty is exceptional, showing great support for their students as well as having high expectations for their work. There is a wonderful sense of community here and every time I step into FamilyWorks, I feel so welcomed by both students and faculty. I am beyond excited to begin my studies, as it will be a very rewarding challenge that will ultimately lead to my growth both as a person and as a therapist.

Candace Fredrick

Hey everyone! My name is Candace and I am from Miramar, FL. I received my B.S. in Psychology from the University of Central Florida in spring 2016. Upon graduating, I began working at a preschool for children diagnosed with Autism and developmental delays. During my time as a teaching assistant, I developed a passion for the children and families I was working with. Working with the families ultimately helped shaped my decision to pursue my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I chose VSU because of the hands on training students receive while in the program. I loved how adamant the program is about diversity, and I felt at home when I spoke with the faculty and students. After graduation, I plan on seeking licensure as Marriage and Family Therapist. I would like to specialize in families who have children with special needs. I am excited for my time in the MFT program at Valdosta State University

Elizabeth Griffis

My name is Elizabeth (Liz) Griffis, and I’m originally from Valdosta. I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Valdosta State University and moved on to Florida State University to receive a master’s degree in Family & Child Sciences. I heard so many good things about the Marriage & Family Therapy program from my cohort at FSU, and I decided that VSU was, once again, right for me. I have always wanted to do clinical work. FamilyWorks provides MFT students with that opportunity in the local community which I have always loved being a part of. I am highly interested in working with families in this area because of the field’s emphasis diversity and multitude of cultures which I have loved. I am excited to make an impact.

Kendal Harrod

Hello, my name is Kendal Harrod, and I am from Americus, GA. I attended Georgia Southwestern State University where I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. I have always known that I wanted to be a counselor, and through my experiences interning and volunteering at different places, I discovered that I wanted to become a Marriage and Family Therapist. It is my hope to work at a children's advocacy center post-graduation. I have a passion for helping people, and a MFT Alumni from VSU pointed me towards the program and inspired me to apply. I am excited to, not only learn from the professors here, but to also gain hands on experience from the student-run clinic. This program feels like a place I can call home and depend on for a safe, challenging environment to further my knowledge of therapy

Taylor Jackson

My name is Taylor Jackson, and I am from San Diego, California. I graduated from the University of California, San Diego where I cultivated a passion for the study of human interaction and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Communication. After years of working with clients in the criminal justice field, I wanted to learn how to positively impact people's lives on a deeper, more personal level. The VSU Marriage and Family Therapy program offers not only a top-tier education but also some of the most dynamic, hands-on clinical opportunities of any MFT program in the country. I am more than honored to be able to pursue my education amongst such a diverse, compassionate group of like-minded professionals, and I look forward to developing the skills necessary to become the best possible therapist that I can.

Heather Knight

Hi, my name is Heather! I am originally from Lee County, Georgia, and I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2017. I became interested in Marriage and Family Therapy while I was researching masters programs online. Valdosta State’s program interested me because of their student-run clinic and their systemic view of therapy! I also enjoyed the welcoming nature that all the students and faculty had when I came to interview, which is what ultimately led me to join the program. When I graduate from the program, I hope to become licensed in MFT and work with children and families within the foster care system! I am so grateful for this opportunity to learn the ways of therapy and change from such a welcoming and supportive faculty.

Brody Lathem 

Hello! My name is Brody Lathem, and I am so honored to be a student in this Marriage Family Therapy program! I graduated from VSU with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Philosophy and Religious Studies. MFT is very important to me because it is a program that has a passion for positive growth and change. I already feel extremely welcomed and at home here at FamilyWorks! Through this program I not only hope to connect more with individuals, but with myself.

Priscilla Lewis

Hello! My name is Priscilla, and I am from Jupiter, FL. I went to Haverford College for my undergraduate degree and received a B.A. in English with a minor in Psychology. I originally pursued a career in study abroad, but soon discovered that the jobs I was most interested in included many therapeutic elements. I met a Marriage & Family therapist who let me shadow her at her private practice in Pennsylvania, and I decided to explore MFT. While working in marketing in North Florida, I researched that MFT was the path for me and decided that VSU was the best fit for me to work towards my goal. I love the kind, inclusive and collaborative spirit of the clinic. It makes it an incredible place to learn, work and grow as a therapist.

Juliana Massey

Hello, my name is Juliana Massey. I was born and raised in Fitzgerald, Georgia. I graduated from Georgia Southern University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2018. I was drawn to the MFT program here in Valdosta because of the hands on learning experience that is offered through the FamilyWorks clinic. After completing this program, I hope to become a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and work with veterans and their families.

 Brandon McDaniel

Mariam Meite

Hello, my name is Mariam Meite, and I’m from Greensboro, North Carolina. I initially began my undergraduate degree in Child Life, but I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Family Studies from East Carolina University. After college, I began working at a private clinic conducting mental health assessment for war veterans. During my time there, I grew interested in mental health, and how it has affected my family. What attracted me to this program was the student-run clinic and the community outreach events. I look forward to the personal and professional growth this program will bring me.

Jessica Millican

Hi! My name is Jessica Millican, and I am originally from Summerville, GA. However, I now consider Valdosta to be my home. I moved to the area to get my bachelor's degree in Sociology at Valdosta State University, and I fell in love with Valdosta. I applied to the MFT program at VSU after learning about the program during an in-class presentation. I was amazed by all that the program had to offer, and the program's commitment to serving members within the Valdosta community was what inspired me to apply. I look forward to utilizing my studies here and my experience in the FamilyWorks clinic to help serve this community in the future.

Chelsea Nelms

Hello, my name is Chelsea Nelms. I am originally from Indianapolis, Indiana. After getting my bachelor’s degree, in Psychology, from Franklin College I was ready for a new adventure. I am very excited to start my journey here at Valdosta State University and follow my dream of becoming a Marriage and Family therapist. I chose Valdosta State University because of the welcoming staff and hands on experience I will be able to get from the Family Works Clinic. I am looking forward to gaining knowledge and experiences from this program!

Khushbu Patel

Hi! My name is Khushbu Patel, and I am from Valdosta, Georgia. I graduated from the University of Georgia in the spring of 2018 with a B.S. in Biology and a B.S. in Psychology. After graduation, I knew I wanted to pursue a career working with families and children, and as I was researching different programs I came across VSU’s Marriage and Family Therapy Program. I chose this program because of the FamilyWorks clinic, where students can get hands on experience and the emphasis on diversity and helping the community. I am excited to begin this new chapter and look forward to learning and growing as an individual and therapist.

Shauni Redfern

Shauni Redfearn is a graduate of the Fine Arts program at Valdosta State. She learned of FamilyWorks’ services through an outreach presentation given in one of her Art History classes, and she decided to check them out. She was impressed by their dedication and the genuine care they provided. It was then when she realized she wanted to pursue Marriage and Family Therapy as a career for herself. Being that her art had been very self-reflective and focused on mental health, it seemed like a perfect transition and compliment for her existing skillset. Upon completion of the MFT program, she hopes to own a private practice where she can implement her artistic background with her clients therapeutically, if they desire. 

Erin Robinson

Hi, my name is Erin Robinson. I'm from Tifton, GA, and I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Valdosta State University. Upon graduating, I took a little over a year off to refocus on my future. After some soul searching, I decided to apply for the Marriage and Family Therapy program with the hope of one day working with clients with chronic or terminal illnesses and their families. I chose Valdosta State University's program because of the emphasis of hands-on learning. I am excited to see what this program holds moving forward!

 Karla Schlumbrecht

My name is Karla Schlumbrecht, and I am from Cuthbert, GA. I received my associate’s degree in Psychology from Darton State College. I then transferred to Georgia Southwestern University in Americus, GA where I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology with minor in Sociology. I chose to pursue a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Valdosta State University because I feel that this program will challenge me academically and prepare me for my future career. I also enjoy the diversity of the program and the student-run clinic. I am so excited to start my next journey and see where the Lord takes me.

Michael Serrano-Jones

Hi, my name is Michael Serrano-Jones. I graduated from VSU with a B.S. in Psychology. I heard about the MFT program through friends who had graduated before me and gone through the program. I would occasionally get to see some of the coursework they were doing, and they would tell me a bit about the student-run clinic and the hands-on training they were able to receive. My gut instinct told me this was the program to go for! I am hoping that the ideologies of the Marriage and Family Therapy program will expand my current understandings of how relationships work and challenge my beliefs in a positive and life-changing way. I am excited and looking forward to embarking on this journey.

Winston Stanford

Hello, I am Winston Stanford, and I graduated from Charleston Southern University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology. While at CSU, I took various classes pertaining to counseling and took further interest in pursuing a career in it. I chose this MFT program partially to come back to Georgia, but also because the section of my counseling class on MFT and Systems Theory interested me most. I am excited to be apart of the program and wish to grow along my fellow classmates!

Priscilla Thomas

Greetings! My name is Priscilla Thomas. As a Valdosta State undergraduate student, I studied psychology. I was introduced to the Marriage and Family Therapy program’s high credentials through the psychology faculty. After visiting the FamilyWorks clinic during an open house, I was warmly welcomed by the humble staff and students. As I gained more insight concerning the provided courses and preparatory clinic experience, I was further convinced that I should apply to the program. Based on my past and current careers, I have developed a genuine passion to help care for and support the welfare of people. I possess a drive to encompass a higher perspective and more relational lens in viewing the world. With this drive, I am very excited about learning, in full, the vast perspectives of the multi-dimensional systemic and relational theories. After completing the program, I look forward to a professional career at a community mental health center to help provide resources, encouragement, and compassion to the people within their community.    

Katarina Waldrop 

Hello, my name is Katarina Waldrop! I am from Athens, GA, but I attended to Jacksonville University in Florida to complete my undergraduate studies. While there, I studied Psychology with a minor in English, and I found a passion for developmental studies and children. After completing research under a professor at JU, I knew that I wanted to work with kids. I knew I wanted to be a therapist, and after meeting faculty and students in this program I was hooked. I chose this program because of their ideals and beliefs on diversity and support of members in the community as well as their own students. The environment here reminded me of the support I received from faculty at JU which helped me in making my decision. After graduation I would like to become a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and work with children. I cannot wait to learn more and enjoy my time in this program!

Monica Woodard

Hello, my name is Monica Woodard. I am from the Middle Georgia (Dodge County) area. I transferred from Middle Georgia State University to Valdosta State University where I received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Growing up, I always had a passion to help others and to assist them with whatever they were going through. Before I made the transfer to VSU's beautiful campus, I heard and read wonderful things about the Marriage and Family Therapy program. After taking a tour of the Family Works Clinic, I knew this was the program for me. Post-graduation, my intent is to primarily focus on children in my own Private Practice.

Graduating Class of 2021

Prentiss Bacon 

Hello, my name is Prentiss Bacon, and I come from the oh so beautiful Savannah, Georgia. I graduated from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. Ever since I was a freshman in high school, I always knew I had a passion for counseling. However, it wasn’t until I began my undergraduate career that I learned of VSU’s prestigious Marriage and Family Therapy graduate program. After learning of the dynamic and hands on curriculum, I knew this program would be perfect for me. I am prepared to gain the much needed knowledge through this program to ultimately become a licensed therapist to better family and marital relations. 

Kinsey Baughman

Hello, my name is Kinsey Baughman, and I'm from Summerville, SC. I went to Clemson University where I received my B.S. in Psychology, with a minor in Sociology. After my undergrad degree I worked in a group home of the rehabilitation of juvenile sex offenders for a little under a year. I have always been interested in the field of Psychology. I chose Valdosta State to continue my studies because of their appreciation for diversity, as well as their focus on hands on learning in the clinic. Upon completion of this program, I hope to become a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and maybe pursue a Ph.D.

Jessica Cid

Hello, my name is Jessica Cid. I’m originally from Tifton, Georgia. I recently graduated with a B.S. in Psychology from Valdosta State University. As I was exploring my options for graduate programs, the Marriage and Family Therapy program here at VSU aligned best with my views on therapy. I admire the program’s emphasis on diversity, and I feel confident that the program will mold me into a conscious and competent therapist. I’m excited to get hands-on training in the student-run clinic, and to be able to refine my counseling skills.

Chyna Doughty

Hi! My name is Chyna Doughty and I am from Wilmington, NC. I graduated from East Carolina University in May of 2018 with a B.A. in psychology and a minor in sociology. ECU is where I found my love for MFT. After graduating, I decided to take a year off to work and build a little more experience before applying to a graduate program. I ended up working for Coastal Horizons Outdoor Adventure, which is an outdoor ropes course that gives teams, families, friends, students, etc. a series of challenges that are designed to help them understand the importance of things such as communication, trust, teamwork, and decision-making. This strengthened my desire to further my education in a form of counseling that focused on family and togetherness. I was drawn to Valdosta State University after reading about their emphasis on diversity. I have always been really big on diversity, open-mindedness, and the acceptance of everyone, so I knew this was the program for me! After completing this program, I hope to obtain a license in counseling and work as a marriage and family therapist, as well as a counselor for at-risk youth in different communities.

Asia Dukes

Hi my name is Asia Dukes and I am from Whigham, GA. I recently graduated from Columbus State University with a Bachelors in Psychology. I was interested in Marriage and Family Therapy because I wanted bring families together, as well as marriages, and help make someone's life better by solving important issues. I was interested in going to Valdosta State University because it is closer to home, and I heard great things about VSU from family and friends who have attended and currently attend the school. I am excited to get clinical training as well as define my own style of doing therapy. 

Armani Duffie

Hello all! My name is Armani Duffie and I am from Decatur, GA. I am a recent graduate of Valdosta State with a Bachelors in Criminal Justice. I also have an Associate's Degree in Networking Systems Administration from DeVry University. I have always been interested in pursuing counseling since high school, but when I started doing research on Military life and suicide rates, it showed me that it affected their families just as much and did not get as much attention as it deserves. These findings showed me that the Marriage and Family Therapy program was the best fit for me. I want to be able to use the knowledge I receive to help find techniques that will work for me, as well as have a life-long positive impact on my future clients’ lives. I chose to stay at Valdosta State because I love being a Blazer, so making the decision to continue my education here felt like the best choice. I am eager to enhance my knowledge of understanding in this field and make personal connections with my peers and professors, while personally molding myself for this career.

Alden Gillespie

Hi, my name is Alden Gillespie. I was born and raised in Valdosta, Georgia. I graduated with my B.A. in Sociology and Anthropology from Valdosta State University. After I graduated, I worked at a domestic violence shelter for women as a Victim's Advocate for a few months before realizing that was not my calling. I decided on the MFT Master's program because of the strong belief in diversity, and the hands-on approach to teaching students. I would love to work with children after graduating. My belief is that you never know what child will remember you 15 years from now, so helping them and being a positive role model now is incredibly important and impactful! I'm thrilled to begin the next step of my career.

Tommy Hampton

Hello, my name is Tommy Hampton IV, and I'm from Valdosta, GA. I graduated from Kennesaw State University in the spring of 2019 with my B.S in Psychology and a minor in Military Leadership. I stumbled upon Marriage and Family Therapy during the summer before my senior year of high school. I was asked to work with troubled youth between the ages of 10-16 years of age at Peace Way Counseling and Mediation Services, Inc. Through that one summer experience I found a passion and purpose to continue volunteering for the next four summers. My experience at Peace Way propelled me to pursue a degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and research some programs, which led me to Valdosta State University. The realness between the students and faculty intrigued me so much that I could envision myself being a part of the learning environment. In addition, the student run clinic and hands on experience were two things I looked for when choosing a school and program, and from the faculty to the students I can truly say they have exceeded my expectations. I am extremely thankful to be in this position to see how this program will strengthen my therapeutic voice, and provide me with the opportunity to grow with other enlightened minds. Upon graduation, I plan on working with all ages and backgrounds while striving for a doctoral degree, and maybe one day open my own private practice.

Ashley Heflin

Hello! My name is Ashley Heflin. I graduated from University of West Georgia with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Studio Art. My studies were primarily in Humanistic Psychology which views people as more than the sum of their mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual parts. This has especially hit home for me as I was recently diagnosed with Asperger’s/HFA.  I’ve struggled my whole life and felt so relieved to finally put a name to it. Regardless of my relief, there is still a lot of stigma around those that are on the spectrum. I hope that in pursuing my studies and becoming licensed, I will be able to help break down stigmas as well as be able to help neuro-diverse couples and families relate to one another.

Kasie Johnson

Hello, my name is Kasie Johnson and I am from Patterson, Georgia. I was very blessed to accept the opportunity to play college softball at Valdosta State University during my undergrad degree. I obtained my bachelors of science degree in psychology at Valdosta State University. I instantly fell in love with the atmosphere at VSU, and realized I wanted to continue my education here for the Marriage and Family Therapy Master’s program. At first I wanted to be a school counselor, but I realized I could impact more lives than my own by counseling in the marriage and family therapy aspect of psychology. I chose MFT because I grew up understanding the difficulties of marriage and families, and I want to be able to open my practice one day to help people create the best relationships they can achieve to obtain healthy relationships in their lives. I am very excited to begin this next step in my life and education.

Dillon Jones

Hello, my name is Dillon and I am a student as well as a graduate assistant for the Marriage and Family Therapy program. I completed my bachelor of science degree in Psychology at Valdosta State University. I enrolled into the MFT program because I felt that the education and guidelines offered by the program coincided with my own views of systemic therapy. I believe that by mastering the skills and training associated with the MFT program, I will become a competent therapist that will continue to build upon my knowledge with the experiences I share with my clients.

Marcia Joyner

Hi There! My name is Marcia Joyner and I am originally from Spring Valley, New York, but I have made Valdosta my home for many years.

I graduated from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Workforce Education and Development, and now I am super excited to be a part of the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Valdosta State University.

When I have completed the MFT program at Valdosta State University, my plan is to become a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that this graduate program will give me the opportunity to reach out to others and help them navigate the issues of life and strengthen their family bonds. I would like to work within the community to help erase the stigma associated with seeking professional counseling to work through issues within the family unit.

Parrish Kent

Hello there, my name is Parrish Kent. I am originally from Omaha, Nebraska. I went to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and received my Bachelor's degree in Education and Human Science. My major was Child, Youth, and Family, Studies, and I minored in Psychology, Sociology, and Ethnic Studies. I became interested in the field of marriage and family therapy after completing my capstone in a therapy clinic. VSU’s program stood out to me because their students have the opportunity to receive hands on experience, and the faculty members are very supportive of their students. I hope to become a licensed marriage and family therapist, and work with families in the court and child welfare system.

Violeta Lucas

Hello! My name is Violeta and I am originally from Bulgaria. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology, I decided to move to the United Kingdom to gain life experience and continue my education. In 2017 I completed my Postgraduate diploma in Counseling and Psychotherapy from Leeds Beckett University. While I studied, I held two internships where I acquired valuable experience in working with survivors of sexual abuse and mental health. During this time, I met my husband who was stationed in England and following my graduation, we received orders to Moody AFB. Having the desire to continue my educational and personal growth, I found that the VSU MFT program was the best fit for me. What attracted me to the program was the strong emphasis on diversity and hands-on experience in the FamilyWorks Clinic. I believe learning a new approach to counseling would strengthen my knowledge, and develop my therapeutic skills. After graduating, I would like to work with diverse and foreign families offering bilingual therapy. I also would like to continue working with survivals of sexual abuse and domestic violence.

Heather Maldonado

I have always been naturally curious about other people. Yet, beyond simply witnessing and observing others, I have a sincere hope for people to have the peace and happiness they want in life. People coming to me with their problems has been a constant in my life, and holding compassionate space for people comes naturally to me. I appreciate the need to be listened to with empathy and understanding without judgment or personal interest. After being in the work force in other roles and participating in the school of life for the past 30 years, I find that my passion is to go back to school to become a therapist to prepare myself to help people ethically and responsibly. I knew I wanted to apply to VSU’s Marriage & Family Therapy program after reading the program’s description that emphasizes “learning about the art and science of change” in a relational, multi-cultural context with a call to stand up for social justice. I was struck by how that statement resonated with me. After taking a tour and experiencing the FamilyWorks student-run clinic, I knew this program was for me. I hope to work with individuals and families, and assist them to achieve their therapeutic goals.

Patti Moynihan

Hi! My name is Patti Moynihan and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the MFT program at Valdosta State University.  I recently graduated from the University of West Georgia with a Masters in Psychology.  I loved every class, professor, student and moment of study.  Although the experience was a life changing dream come true, the program was not accredited and did not lead to licensure.  When I visited VSU, I knew that I had found my next dream.

During my visit, I observed a practicum and was impressed by the level of support and respect that I felt between the students and professors, and towards the clients. All of the students I spoke with expressed that they loved the program and felt that they were learning to become competent therapists. The required readings are interesting, intriguing and far from text book boring. The Family Works Clinic on site is an invaluable resource for students and for people in the community.

The students expressed that they were encouraged to be themselves, and to find and develop their own unique way of being in the world and working with clients.  The atmosphere in the MFT department feels positive, non-pathologizing and respectful to all. I am excited to learn and practice here because I feel that the program is a perfect balance of academic rigor with an openness that allows for the development of each student’s individuality and creativity.  

Tevonna Nembhard

Hello, my name is Tevonna Nembhard! I'm originally from Connecticut, but, after a couple of moves, I've been in Georgia for quite some time now. I attended Valdosta State University for my undergrad where I earned my Bachelors in Sociology in the Spring of 2017. I always had a passion for helping and comforting people through simply talking to them; however, during my last semester in a Clinical Soc. class I finally realized that the Marriage & Family Therapy program was exactly the route I wanted to take! I would've loved to have started the very next semester, but I had my own bundle of joy 3 days after graduation! So after some time off I'm ready to jump back in and finish on the journey I once started years ago. I'm excited to work with a variety of people, but I have a special connection with children. I'm hoping to one day have my own practice and be a safe haven for any and everyone!

Amanda Pierre-Louis

Hello! My name is Amanda Pierre-Louis and I am from South Florida. I graduated from Florida State University in 2016 and dedicated three years to teaching High School students English. Before knowing I would teach, I knew I wanted to do Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT); however, because it was a Master's program, I knew mentoring teens while educating them (and dancing) would be just as awesome while waiting for the right season to attend Valdosta State's MFT program. The season is here! Being able to be at VSU is so inspiring because of the many opportunities given to impact diverse lives through the clinic that WE as students get to run with professional guidance. That in itself gives us so much preparation for the real world which many other programs do not provide. I've been waiting YEARS for this moment, and I'm proud to say that I am an MFT student at VSU!

Kelly Sheaks

My name is Kelly M. Sheaks. I am from South Carolina. After serving ten years in the Air Force, I received my Associate of Science Degree in Psychology from Georgia Military College. I followed up by attending Valdosta State University and obtaining my Undergraduate Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I chose Interdisciplinary Studies because it allowed me to work in a primary area of study, in conjunction with two Secondary areas of study. This afforded me the opportunity to explore all three of my major interests. After earning my Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a primary focus on Sociology, and a secondary focus on psychology, and Women and Gender Studies, I was attracted to the warm learning environment I witnessed while touring VSU’s Marriage and Family Therapy Graduate Program. I know after serving people on a much larger scale in the Air Force, I now want to serve people on a much more personal level, and I am excited to start this new chapter of my life.

Jodi Thomas

Hi! My name is Jodi Thomas, and I am from Hinesville, GA. I graduated from Valdosta State University and obtained a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Spanish. From the beginning I knew I wanted to major in Psychology but had no idea what I wanted to do with it until I came upon the MFT program at VSU. I am excited to participate in this program and have the opportunity to have hands on experience while also expanding my knowledge about MFT. After graduation, I plan on obtaining my license in MFT and eventually opening my own private practice!

K’Nya Trimble

Hello, my name is K’Nya Trimble and I am from Miami, Florida. I recently graduated from Florida State in August of 2019 with a B.S in Family and Child Science and a minor in Psychology. A gap year was my worst nightmare and I couldn’t imagine waiting a year to pursue my Master’s. I have always loved the family dynamic and the inter-workings of relationships, especially marriages. Since middle school, I have always found myself giving advice on things that I myself had not personally experienced, and was always the go-to for insight and direction amongst friends. It has always been a joy to see changes in people individually and relationally that results from something I truly love to do. However, it wasn’t until college that I figured that I should seek a career in the counseling field. Since it was so natural to me I never considered it. January of 2018 was when I decided that VSU was where I was supposed to be to pursue a M.S in MFT. I had heard so many great things over the years from friends that were in the program. Once I was able to visit and sit in on a mock session, I was sold! I am extremely excited to see how this program challenges, stretches and grows me in areas that I thought I knew, didn’t know, and know. Upon graduating, I plan to obtain licensure in either Florida or somewhere up the east coast and going from there as far as my career.

Vasettria Williams

Hey everyone! My name is Vasettria Williams and I’m from Kennesaw, GA. I graduated from VSU earning my BS in Psychology and a minor in African American Studies in December of 2018. Post-graduation I was not sure of the next step of my life. I knew I wanted to work with children, but was not sure doing what. After researching, I learned about MFT programs and saw that VSU offers it as well! I fell in love with VSU’s MFT Program because of how personal everything feels, and I instantly felt like I belonged in this program. I’m looking forward to expanding my career with this program!