Vallis
Mental Health
Our Team
Our Clinicians
Brooke Nelson Murphy, MS LPC
Owner/Chief Executive Officer
Clinical Director
Licensed Professional Counselor
I am a professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health offering individual counseling. I graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry, and I incorporate my knowledge of physiology and neurobiology into counseling intervention and psychoeducation.
Margaret Bossaller, MSW LICSW
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health, offering clinical services that focus on treating the whole person through addressing the biological, sociological, and psychological components of wellness. I specialize in assessing and treating a variety of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-based disorders, and substance use disorders. I have years of direct experience in assisting those with
Stephanie Brewer, MS LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health, offering individual counseling. My education began at the University of North Alabama with a degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice and I received my Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of West Alabama.
Morgan Hamrick, MSW LICSW-S
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with Vallis Mental Health, offering individual counseling for adults. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Montevallo in 2013 and obtained my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Alabama in 2015. As a therapist, I work to create a safe environment aimed at facilitating personal growth, connection, and empowerment
Daphne Ragland, EdS LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health, offering therapy for adolescents and adults. I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Social Work, a Master’s in Counseling, and an Education Specialist from Jacksonville State University. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have counseling experience within residential, acute inpatient, and outpatient settings.
Stan Peck, MA LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health offering individual counseling. I graduated from the University of North Alabama in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Arts specializing in public speech. I also have a minor in mathematics from my time in undergraduate studies. I incorporate my undergraduate training into my counseling profession with an understanding of how individual personality styles and communication styles migrate into our daily lives and determine our specific paths. I graduated from the University of North Alabama with a Master of Arts in Counseling degree in 2015 with training in evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person Centered Therapy (PCT), Gestalt Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Reality Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, and Mindfulness strategies. I consider myself as more integrative in counseling approaches and do intervene with more existential and spiritually based ideals as well. I utilize a holistic and strength-based approach to help patients tap into their innate resilience and move toward positive change and healing. I am passionate about providing a safe and empathic space to explore wounds, challenges, and patterns that may be impeding a patient’s quality of life.
Stan is currently accepting new in-office
and telehealth patients.
Tia Wheatley, MSW LICSW
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
My name is Tia Wheatley and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker that offers individual counseling to adults (18+). I graduated with my Masters of Social Work in 2021 from Arizona State University and have been practicing as a therapist since; however, I have been in the social work field since 2018. I have experience working with various populations - adolescents, young adults, older adults and domestic violence survivors, which have provided me invaluable opportunities to work with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, phobias, depression, mood disorders/bipolar disorder, managing ADHD symptoms, navigating life transitions, safety planning, grief/loss and much more! As I am still learning more about myself as a clinician, I am finding that I am extremely passionate about working with older adults (65+).
Tia is currently accepting new in-office
and telehealth patients.
Staci Whitaker, MS LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
I am a licensed professional counselor at Vallis Mental Health offering therapy to adults. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Tulsa in 1995 and obtained my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in 2009. I have worked in the field of mental health for 17 years and have been a licensed therapist since 2012.
Jelicia Wright, MS LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
I am a licensed professional counselor here at Vallis Mental Health, offering individual therapy. I have a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Alabama A&M University and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Philander Smith College (now University). Having worked with a variety of demographics in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including adults, kids, and senior citizens, I bring a depth of knowledge and compassion to my job. ​ I specialize in treating substance use disorders, anxiety, and depression. I use a holistic approach, including evidence-based methods like Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help individuals find solutions and develop healthier coping strategies. ​ I am passionate about helping people, and my ultimate satisfaction lies in aiding individuals as they navigate the intricacies and complexities of their mental health. I aim to create a supportive environment where clients feel heard, acknowledged, and supported, regardless of their struggles. I believe it is important to celebrate every advancement, no matter how small.
Jelicia is currently accepting new in-office
and telehealth patients.
Wendy Hamrick, MS ALC
Associate Licensed Counselor
I am an Associate Licensed Counselor at Vallis Mental Health. I have a BS in Human Services from Columbia College and a MS in Counseling Psychology from Avila University. ​ ​ I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, Mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have experience working in the private sector, inpatient psych hospitals, and agency clinics as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri since 2021. I provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere for children and adults to explore self-awareness, emotional expression, and whole person wellness by implementing mind-body awareness to address life’s daily stresses, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and Autism.
Wendy is currently accepting new in-office
and telehealth patients.
Shianne Wold, MA ALC
Associate Licensed Counselor
I am an Associate Licensed Counselor at Vallis Mental Health. I have a BA in Social and Behavioral Sciences with a minor in Psychology and an MA in clinical mental health counseling from the University of North Alabama. ​ Depending on their specific personality and needs, I customize treatments and interventions for what works best for my patients. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to teach coping skills. I use talk therapy, art therapy, activities, play therapy techniques, and even think of creative ways to tailor these interventions specifically to each client. My job is to support you, collaborate with you, and give you the room to access your own strength to help you become the best version of yourself.
Christian Barnes, BS
Graduate Intern
Under the supervision of Staci Whitaker, MS LPC
I am a current graduate intern at Vallis Mental Health in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at the University of North Alabama. My goal is to serve as a catalyst for personal transformation, guiding clients towards a deeper understanding of themselves and empowering them to make meaningful choices that align with their values and aspirations. My therapeutic approach focuses on the uniqueness and inherent worth of each individual. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel understood, accepted, and empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions authentically. Through a commitment to ongoing learning, cultural humility, and ethical practice, I aspire to create a therapeutic alliance that fosters healing, resilience, and lasting change.
Nikki Mott, BA
Graduate Intern
Under the supervision of Stan Peck, MA LPC
Hello, I'm Nikki Mott, I am a clinical mental health intern currently pursuing my Master's degree at Walden University. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts. The profound impact of 2020 made me realize the critical importance of mental well-being in our lives, prompting my decision to embark on a second career as a counselor. I firmly believe in the uniqueness of every individual and recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. My goal is to collaborate with you to discover the personalized tools and strategies that resonate with your needs, empowering you to achieve your fullest potential and live your best life.
John Niemeyer, MBA BA
Graduate Intern
Under the supervision of Staci Whitaker, MS LPC
John is a United States Army Veteran who worked as a campus minister in college while obtaining bachelor's degrees in psychology and criminal justice from Central Methodist University. He earned his MBA and served as the Director of Operations at the Downtown Rescue Mission in Huntsville, Alabama, before shifting his focus to a career in mental health. He has served as a family advocate intern at the National Children’s Advocacy Center and is currently a Case Manager at Wellstone Behavioral Health and a counselor in training at Vallis Mental Health as he completes his Masters of Social Work from Louisiana State University and his Masters of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. John’s approach is authentic and person-centered. He works to understand each client’s story to identify strengths and needs as they partner to reach the client’s goals. He uses social work to identify how systems affect issues while utilizing counseling and psychology in collaboration with clients to create effective evidence-based interventions that achieve their objectives.
Office Staff
Andrew Harless, MS-SHMA BSW
Clinic Manager
I hold a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Troy University and began my career as a Discharge Coordinator and Case Manager at a psychiatric hospital. While in this role, I earned a Master of Science in Business with a specialization in Strategic Healthcare Management and Administration from Athens State University, as well as a Business Consulting certificate. My professional experience spans diverse sectors, including business management, healthcare, business ownership, inpatient clinical services, etc. I am passionate about mental health and excited to continue my professional journey with the team at Vallis Mental Health.
Jessie Rogers, BS
Lead Patient Services Assistant
I am the Lead Patient Services Assistant (PSA) at Vallis Mental Health. I graduated from Troy University with a Bachelor of Applied Health Sciences and am currently working towards my Master’s in Health Administration at the University of North Alabama. My role at Vallis Mental Health is to support our clinicians and administrative staff with the purpose of providing exceptional care to our patients. As a PSA, my mission is to support everyone in achieving their personal and professional goals.
Chris Herrin, BS
Patient Services Assistant
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering Technology from the University of Southern Mississippi and am currently pursuing a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of West Alabama. My professional background spans a range of experiences, including specialty coffee roasting, restaurant management, home renovation, real estate, and time as a stay-at-home dad. I am deeply passionate about mental health care and am honored to support others on their journeys as part of the team at Vallis Mental Health.
LaKisha Koger, AAS
Patient Services Assistant
I am Patient Services Assistant at Vallis Mental Health. I hold an A.A.S. in Business Administration from Calhoun Community College and a Medical Administrative Assistant certificate with NHA certification. My expertise in medical office management, combined with my passion for supporting mental health services, affords me the knowledge to work alongside clinicians to ensure that patients receive exceptional care and treatment. With a strong foundation in both healthcare administration and business, I am committed to maintaining effective communication between patients and their healthcare providers, facilitating a seamless treatment experience. Currently, I focus on streamlining processes, enhancing patient engagement, and supporting clinicians in delivering high-quality care. Outside of my professional life, I am dedicated to continuous learning and growth, both in the healthcare field and beyond.
Lydia Nave, MA BS
Executive Assistant
I am currently an Executive Assistant at Vallis Mental Health. I work alongside management to provide support to staff and clinicians. I graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and obtained my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Alabama. ​ I am currently pursuing my ALC license and believe that each person needs a unique counseling experience to obtain the support and strength to meet their therapeutic goals. Therapy can be vulnerable and challenging and my goal is to provide a safe space to meet each person where they are while providing empathy and respect for their situation. My clinical approach involves integrating various therapeutic models as well as the systems that make up an individuals life to provide a complete and whole treatment experience. Upon obtaining my ALC license my goal is to provide mental health counseling services at Vallis Mental Health.
Jacey Scott
Executive Assistant
I am an executive assistant here at Vallis Mental Health. I am currently pursuing my Bachelors in Psychology with a Minor in Behavioral Science at Athens State University. I hope to then go and get my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to become a licensed professional counselor. I have experience with crisis counseling, insurance verification, and various administrative tasks and hope to use those skills to support admin, management, and clinicians at Vallis.
John David Murphy, DO MBA
Chief Operating Officer
I am the Chief Operating Officer at Vallis Mental Health. I graduated from the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2019 with a Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine (DO). I completed my Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Troy University that same year. I graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry with a minor in Healthcare Management. I completed my orthopedic surgery residency through the University of South Florida and HCA in St. Petersburg/Tampa, FL in June 2024. I will continue my orthopedic surgical training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Adult Reconstruction and Limb Preservation fellowship beginning 08/2024.