Meet the Team
LOVE.ENCOURAGE.INSPIRE.EMPOWER. These words describe actions that I employ with my passion for helping people. I enjoy working with clients to achieve the positive vision they have for their lives. Sometimes life happens! Yes. I have had life experiences that I had to work through, too. How do you react when it happens? Is your vision strong enough and real enough to you that you jump up and continue on the path to destiny?
I believe in the art of non-judgmental listening which is what most people appreciate. It is important to take time to understand the client's goals, situations, emotions, strengths and weaknesses to strategically guide clients to take action towards goals that they have set for themselves.
I am Brittany Robinson, the first smiling face you will see when you walk in the door. I love people and enjoy working in the healthcare industry. I love providing our clients with a pleasant experience through the front-end processes.
Hi. I am Michelle Clay (formerly Drayton), a native of Charleston, SC and a resident of Columbia for 29 years. I am a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice, Master's in Counseling from Webster University, and a Doctorate in Human Behavior from Capella University. I became a licensed therapist in 2011 and a licensed therapist supervisor in 2012.
I have provided therapy services to individuals, children, families, and groups for the past 16 years. I have worked in the community for 20-plus years, doing home visits with families and helping them navigate resources in the community. I currently provide therapeutic services and behavioral health training and supervision services to other counselors.
I specialize in children and adults dealing with sexual trauma, depression, anxiety disorders and diagnoses involving behavior such as ODD, Conduct Disorder and ADHD. I offer couples counseling including sex therapy and pre-marital counseling. I love working with teens and helping them work through low grades, decision-making, and career choices.
Among being a court-appointed Foster Care Advocate and serving as LRADAC Board Member, I am certified as a sports psychology coach, a certified trainer for SC Endeavors, certified Triple P consultant (parenting strategies), Board certified telemental health provider, and a certified Trauma Provider.
When it comes to my clients, I utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Brief therapy. I help clients understand and navigate the healing process beginning with their first visit. This therapy helps clients set targeted, realistic, and attainable goals that are more effective for producing behavioral change and a better quality of life.
Julie Zimmerman, MA, LPC-A
THERAPIST
My name is Julie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. Are you facing difficulties that have become overwhelming? Are your feelings and concerns creating problems in your daily life? Are you worried about your child's/ teen's behavior, attitude, or mood? I am here to help you navigate life's difficulties and challenges. We all know life happens and situations can sometimes feel overwhelming. Therapy can help. As your therapist, I want to help you overcome the challenges you are facing to live the life you deserve. In therapy, I will work with you to learn coping skills, gain knowledge, heal from past trauma, and create self-awareness to achieve your goals. I provide a nonjudgmental, safe space where you can work through past or current issues. My hope in our work together is that you become the best version of yourself and create the life you deserve.
My educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from the University of South Carolina-Aiken and a Master's Degree from South University.
I work with children (6+), teens, and adults providing therapeutic services for issues such as grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bullying, life transitions, behavioral issues, adoption or foster care-related issues, and trauma. As your therapist, I use a multicultural, eclectic approach where each person's experiences and worldview are respected and valued. I provide an environment where you feel accepted, seen, and heard. I am committed to helping you overcome life's challenges and work toward achieving personal goals. You deserve the opportunity to live your best life. Taking care of your mental health is an important part of the foundation for living a healthy and fulling life. Your life matters and it will be my honor to work with you on your journey of healing and hope. Let's get started on your journey today.
Teal V. Peoples, LCSW, LISW-CP, CCS, LCAS
CLINICAL SUPERVISOR
My name is Teal. I strongly build on therapeutic processes which emphasize "Self Healing". I believe in encouraging and building on the strengths that an individual already possesses. I believe in a holistic view of the mind body and spirit. I love to assist children and adults in their journey to balance and healing.
My educational experience includes a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice and Approved Supervisor as well as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist.
YaKesha Means, MA, LPC
THERAPIST
I am YaKesha Means. I possess a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Columbia College and a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Webster University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Inspirational Speaker, Mental Health and Domestic Violence Advocate and Educator with over 20 years of experience. My mission is to help men, women and children tap into their resilience and mental toughness to achieve a healthier quality of life.
Over the years, I have served in a multitude of roles as a result of my challenges. While conquering those obstacles, I realized that I must share the knowledge that I learned that helped me persevere, adapt, and rise above adversity. I employ CBT and DBT therapeutic models as well as other coping mechanisms to help my clients reach their goals. I enjoy several hobbies and am a fitness enthusiast. As a mother and grandmother, I love spending time with my family. One of my mantras is from Gordan Allport, “To live is to suffer and to survive living is to find meaning in the suffering”.
The first step in therapy is talking. Let's find a time where we can meet and talk about what's on your mind.
Phone:
803.764.4120
Email:
info@timetounpackcounseling.com
Address:
144 Leisure Lane Suite 200
Columbia, SC 29210