Our Team

Kari Whatley, LPC     Therapy Director

All of us feel stuck and discouraged at times. Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and general life stresses can be overwhelming. How would it feel to like yourself more? How would it feel to wake up in a life you love, with habits that help you feel fulfilled and whole? Together, we can overcome these things that are holding you back. I view counseling as “new skills for old problems” or “more tools for your toolbox.” There really are practical solutions for dealing with life’s challenges and difficult seasons. Counseling can help you find those solutions, and it can help you overcome the roadblocks that keep you from succeeding.

My approach focuses on health for the whole person, not putting a band-aid on one or two problems. I have over ten years of experience helping clients with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, communication skills, and habit transformation. I have an encouraging counseling style and use evidence-based therapy approaches tailored to your individual needs.
When you feel a desire in your life for change, honor it! You only get one shot at this life, and you deserve a good one! Investing in your well-being is the most important thing you can do for yourself–and the people you love. You deserve a fulfilling life with a clear path toward balance, hope, and peace. I would be honored to help you on your journey.

Kari has been a lifelong rider, successfully competed at the national level, and has trained under world-renowned instructors including Olympic rider Denny Emerson. Kari combines her experience as a trainer and skills as a counselor to create successful EAP sessions.

Credentials

Licensed Professional Counselor – State of Alabama
EAGALA Certified Equine Specialist

Education

M.S., Professional Counseling – Liberty University (Lynchburg, VA)
B.S., Theology – Liberty University (Lynchburg, VA)

Carmen Zadnichek, ALC     Therapist

The pre-teen and teenage years are pivotal and challenging for nearly everyone. But it’s also a time when we’re gifted a level of strength and resiliency that’s unmatched in our adult years.

I truly enjoy helping them navigate this pivotal time in their lives. In our sessions, I use a blend of traditional methods alongside creative approaches like equine therapy and art therapy.

Equine therapy offers a unique way to build trust and self-awareness through interactions with horses, while art therapy provides a powerful medium for expressing feelings and exploring your inner world.

I’d like to help you set healthy boundaries, discover and pursue your interests, improve your communication skills, and advocate effectively for yourself. I will support you in living fully in the present while preparing for a fulfilling future. If you’re ready to explore these aspects of your life and make meaningful changes, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Credentials

Associate Licensed Counselor – State of Alabama

Education

M.S., Counseling and Psychology – Troy University (Troy, AL)
B.S., Marine Biology – University of West Florida (Pensacola, FL)