Our Counselors, Therapists and Life Coaches in Louisiana

"I believe in walking alongside each client in order to make observations and offer insight to help you reach your full wellness potential."

Ebony Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 17 years of experience working with children and teens in the mental health field. She received a Master's degree in Social Work, a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, and has many certifications in counseling, including being a Qualified School Social Worker in the state of Louisiana. Teens are her specialty and she truly enjoys this work.

Ebony’s counseling style is that of a warm and interactive partner. She believes in walking alongside each client to help them reach their full potential. Ebony treats everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. She doesn't judge and certainly doesn't believe in stigmatizing.

Ebony believes that everyone deserves to live their best life! She understands that sometimes we all need a hand in doing so. Whether there’s a need for a diagnosis or simply a listening ear, she is here to help.

"I come from a multidisciplinary and multicultural background and am particularly conscious of the importance culture can play in therapy."

My name is Lonnie Renteria, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 9 years of experience. I provide a safe, judgment-free, supportive space for individuals, couples, and families. I take an experiential approach, helping clients discover truths about their needs, expectations, and hopes. I also specialize in working around trauma and attachment injuries.

I received my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University. I am well-versed in emotion-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), narrative therapy, & trauma work. I am continuing to enhance my training in internal family systems models, to be a more patient and empathetic therapist. 

I have a genuine interest in your process, and I encourage you to be the best you can be. I believe we all have the capacity to heal and build the life that we want to live. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership and a forum for gaining a better understanding of ourselves, not a place to "get rid of" or "fix" something. Get started today!

"From a holistic, nonjudgmental perspective, I provide individual and couples counseling, offering compassionate, personalized care through evidence-based techniques tailored to support self-growth and development."

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with over 25 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through a wide range of life challenges. I provide general counseling services with a focus on depression, anxiety, trauma-related concerns, grief, stress management, anger management, self-esteem, men’s issues, parenting, marital counseling, and divorce-related concerns.

I earned my master’s degree in human services counseling from the University of New Orleans and hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Southeastern Louisiana University. I use an eclectic, client-centered approach, meeting clients where they are and tailoring therapeutic techniques to support growth, self-awareness, and recovery.

Taking the first step toward counseling can feel overwhelming, whether you are new to therapy or returning after a past experience. You deserve a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment. I offer a collaborative, engaging environment to help you move toward clarity, healing, and personal growth.

"As a woman with her own experiences of trauma and loss, I bring a deep understanding of how life's most painful moments can shape us. I also believe, in the midst of these experiences, we deserve the chance to work towards feeling whole again."

Hi, I’m Melissa. I’m passionate about helping people work through and heal from trauma, grief, and loss in all its forms. My approach is shaped by both professional education and lived compassion. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of New Orleans and my Master of Social Work from Southern University at New Orleans. Through my education and experience, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of loss. My goal is to provide compassionate support rooted in presence, respect, and care, helping each person navigate their healing journey at their own pace.

I use a humanistic, eclectic approach to create personalized, supportive therapy, tailored to your needs. I will take time to understand your story, honor your strengths, and meet you where you are as you work toward healing, self-awareness, and personal growth.

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and encouraged as you take steps toward healing. When you feel ready, I invite you to schedule an appointment and begin the process of caring for yourself. 

Navjot "Nikki" Redpath is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Louisiana. She has over 15 years of experience counseling children and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, personal issues, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, behavioral challenges, self-esteem concerns, and grief and loss. Nikki completed her Bachelor’s in Psychology and her Master’s in Education with a focus in Human Services Counseling, both at the University of New Orleans.

In her counseling practice, Nikki utilizes cognitive-behavioral, Rogerian, solution-focused, and strengths-based approaches to help clients reach their goals. When working with children, she may also integrate behavioral techniques alongside these other modalities. She emphasizes the importance of flexibility and trust within the therapeutic process.

Nikki strives to create an environment where clients feel safe, respected, and supported through unconditional positive regard. This therapeutic space allows clients to openly express themselves while trusting that their privacy and dignity will be upheld.

"As a woman who identifies with a number of mental health challenges, I feel I can best help others who are experiencing many types of challenges."

Stephanie B. Dean, MA, LPC, is a Christian Counselor with more than 7 years of experience and training in assisting children, teens, adults, and seniors with concerns related to women’s issues, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit disorders (ADHD), family-of-origin issues, low self-esteem, and more. Stephanie possesses special skills and experience in working with patients to uncover core issues and get to the “root of the problem”, especially in cases in which feelings of extreme guilt or shame are involved. Additionally, Mrs. Dean has personal experience and skills in working with individuals who have experienced trauma such as catastrophic events, sexual abuse, physical abuse, or neglect. 

Stephanie earned her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and is the founder of Greater Bogalusa Community Center, a nonprofit, human services organization in Bogalusa, LA. She primarily counsels from a client-centered, psychodynamic approach and may employ counseling modalities of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and “priming” psychology for self-actualization. 

Stephanie seeks to develop a warm and caring relationship with you while collaborating with you to reach your counseling goals. She counsels from a strengths-based, goal-focused perspective while building the client-counselor relationship; she listens with genuine empathy and understands many issues from personal experience. Stephanie believes that all individuals possess the innate ability to create and live any life they choose. 

"As a woman of color, I understand the importance of being heard and understood as well as understanding the disparities people of color face on a daily basis."

Shaquwanda Henry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about assisting adolescents, adults, and families in recognizing their strengths to utilize in overcoming obstacles. Shaquwanda likes to use a person-centered approach because she believes in meeting her clients where they are at. Shaquwanda specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, major life transitions, and family issues/conflict. Shaquwanda's goal is to collaborate with her clients to help them become their best selves, in helping them to reach their full potential in life, and the quality of life they desire to attain.

Shaquwanda completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Southern University at New Orleans. She has worked in the mental health field in many different areas including as a mental health technician, case manager, housing specialist, and clinician. She also has experience in different mental health settings such as inpatient, outpatient, residential, and community-based services. Her broad range of professional experiences allows Shaquwanda to connect with clients of all races, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identity backgrounds. Shaquwanda utilizes treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy.

Seeking mental health treatment can be intimidating and scary. However, it also shows that you are proactive about health and wellness. Shaquwanda is here to provide a safe space to those who are looking to improve their overall mental, physical, and emotional health and well-being. If you are ready to improve your quality of life and operate in your authentic self, schedule an appointment with her today!

"As someone who has experienced depression and trauma, I genuinely care about helping those who struggle with similar experiences, feelings, and beliefs of healing.eee"

Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Louisiana with over five years of experience as a clinician—and even more time spent working in the mental health field. I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages. Many who struggled with PTSD and trauma, depression, OCD, anxiety, bipolar, and addiction. Many of the settings include psychiatric hospitals, intensive outpatient, community and private practice settings. I discovered my passion for counseling by witnessing the life-changing impact that feeling heard, supported, and truly understood can have.

Experiences such as the grief of losing a loved one, symptoms of depression that can lead to negative self-perceptions, or persistent worries associated with anxiety or OCD can leave us feeling stuck, replaying thoughts or moments over and over again. I utilize many cognitive behavioral and trauma-informed therapies to help foster awareness and empowerment.

I genuinely enjoy getting to know each client and collaborating with them to work toward their goals for therapy—whether it's to grow, change, or heal. I believe therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating; it can be a place of curiosity and insight. My goal is to support you in building resilience, gaining clarity, and creating lasting change in your life.

"Over the years, I have worked extensively with children and adolescents, though my practice is not exclusively focused on that population."

Traig Varnado is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 27 years of experience in the mental health field. Traig has worked extensively with children and adolescents while also supporting individuals, couples, and families through life’s challenges. His areas of focus include depression, anxiety, grief, parenting support, and conflict resolution. Traig is passionate about helping clients heal, grow, and reach their full potential through compassionate, solution-focused care.

Traig earned his Master’s in Social Work from Southern University of New Orleans. His approach is rooted in evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused techniques. He works to meet clients where they are with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a strong commitment to client-centered care.

If you’re seeking a trusted guide to help you navigate life’s emotional and behavioral challenges, Traig is here to support your journey. His goal is to provide a personalized, safe space that empowers healing, self-discovery, and long-term growth.

"Oftentimes we wear a mask to survive our days. I am here to offer you the safe space where your mask is no longer required."

Charniece Scott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years of experience in mental and behavioral health. She has developed a dedicated career in working with adolescents, young to middle-aged adults, and families with a wide range of concerns including depression, stress/anxiety, crisis intervention, difficult life transitions, family conflicts, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and anger management. Charniece has a diverse background in medical social work and is also a functional family therapist.

Charniece earned her Master of Social Work from Louisiana State University. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and humanistic-based techniques, Charniece fosters a warm and collaborative therapeutic environment within her practice.

Charniece believes in the power of an authentic clinician-client relationship grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life by taking the first step towards change. If you are ready to begin your journey, Charniece wants to empower you and provide her unwavering support.

"I welcome you to openly share your hurts, problems, "issues" with me so that we an embark on a journey of wellness together."

Mecah Idikwu is a dedicated and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of clinical experience supporting individuals through life’s most difficult moments. She has a strong belief in meeting people where they are, providing personalized care that recognizes each person’s unique story. Mecah specializes in treating depression, anxiety, grief, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, and PTSD, and is committed to helping clients rediscover balance, resilience, and hope.

Mecah earned her Master’s in Nursing from Walden University and is passionate about meeting each client where they are. She uses evidence-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, and person-centered therapy, to provide compassionate care that empowers clients to achieve balance and emotional well-being. She emphasizes collaboration, follow-up, and progress tracking to support long-term healing and growth.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burdened by life changes, Mecah is here to help. She provides a safe and understanding space for healing, offering diagnosis, treatment, and guidance so clients can move forward with hope, confidence, and a renewed sense of self.

"As an African American woman of color, I know first-hand the unique issues of being a part of a population who has been marginalized."

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) with over 12 years of experience working with adolescents and adults within the mental health field. I have conducted individual and group therapy with individuals who may struggle with depression, anxiety, suicidal idealization, trauma, and grief.

I obtained my Doctorate degree in Philosophy from Walden University, Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling degree from Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), and a Bachelor's degree in Rehabilitation & Disability Studies from Southern University A&M College. I utilize multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and mindfulness.

We each come to therapy searching for change, understanding, and relief. I believe counseling helps you accept what you cannot change and focus on what you can. Counseling is a personal journey to reach your goals, overcome struggles, and empower yourself. If you're ready to put in the work, I look forward to establishing a collaborative relationship with you.