Meet Our Team

Victoria Butler, M.Ed., LCMHC

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I earned my Master's degree in School Counseling from Campbell University in 2012 and a Bachelor's degree in English with honors from Mount Olive University in 2008. I began my career as a teacher, which is when I realized my love for counseling. During breaks, my students would talk with me about their lives and stressors. I decided that I would continue my education, so I obtained my graduate degree in school counseling. Upon completion, I worked in elementary and high school settings as a school counselor and 504 Coordinator. In 2016, I transitioned from the school setting to private practice, which provided me the opportunity to serve individuals with diverse mental health needs. I am ever thankful for the wonderful clients, mentors, and colleagues who have supported my career growth so far.

Now, my husband and I are pursing yet another dream, Heritage Counseling and Wellness, PLLC. Through our own practice, we hope to provide quality counseling services and classes that will help to promote the growth of individuals, families, and our community.

Population Served:

Children and adults ages 2 and up, Adolescents, Families/Parents, and Adults.

Victoria accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Tricare, Aetna, Cigna, Medcost, and Self-Pay Clients.

Techniques:

I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
Expressive Arts Therapy and Yoga Facilitation
Techniques from the Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM)
Psychoeducation on Neuroscience and the effects of trauma and stress
Christian Counseling (Upon Client Request)
Play Therapy Techniques
Child/Parent Therapy

I am currently participating in supervision for Registered Play Therapy (RPT). I use the following techniques for treatment of children and parents: Child-centered play therapy, Theraplay techniques, Circle of Security Parenting techniques, sand tray techniques, and expressive arts therapy.

I have experience working with the following mental health concerns: anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, post-partum depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, OCD, grief and loss, life adjustments, parenting issues, ADHD, stress management, and anger management.

I offer Christian counseling upon client request, and I am also available to speak about mental health issues for community events.

Monica McLamb, M.Ed., LCMHC, NCC, BSN, RN

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Carolina State University in 2018 and hold a National Counselor Certification. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from East Carolina University in 2014 after completing an Associated degree in Nursing from Johnston Community College in 2004. I began my career as a registered nurse. My nursing background includes working with patients in cardiac care, hospice, outpatient wound therapy and home care. My nursing career also included being a nurse educator for eight years. I developed an interest and love for counseling over those years working with patients as a nurse. In my nursing role, there were times when patients and families shared life struggles and stresses; I found it rewarding to help people navigate through those struggles. I provide a safe and welcoming space where clients can feel comfortable as we work together on meeting goals.

Population Served:

Adults, Families, and Couples ages 18 and up. Monica accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Self-Pay Clients. Monica accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Self-Pay Clients.

Techniques:

I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Christian Counseling (Upon Client Request)
Career Counseling
Art Therapy
Coaching
Compassion Focused
Emotionally Focused
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
Motivational Interviewing
Person-Centered
Trauma Focused
Psychoeducation and neuroscience related to trauma

I have experience working with the following mental health concerns: anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, post-partum depression, grief and loss, chronic illness, life adjustments, coping skills, parenting issues, women’s issues, stress management, spirituality, self -esteem, infertility/pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum, peer relationships, parenting, relationship issues and life coaching and transitions. Christian counseling offered upon client request.

Melissa Penley, M.A., MAHS , LCMHCA

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. I obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Pentecostal Theological Seminary, Cleveland, Tennessee in 2022. I also obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Human Services Counseling with concentration on Crisis and Trauma from Liberty University in 2019. I served in the banking industry for several years before I served as an educator and administrative assistant. I quickly learned that helping others was my favorite part of work. Since then, I have worked with individuals and families in community and outpatient settings. I have experience working with individuals exhibiting various mental health concerns including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, crisis and trauma.

Population Served:

Children ages 3 and up, Adolescents, Families/Parents, and Adults. Melissa accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Self-Pay Clients.

Techniques:

I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Play Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapy
Child & Parent Therapy
Christian Counseling (Upon Client Request)

Renessa Carthens, M.S., LCMHCA

Renessa Carthens is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. She earned a Master’s in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University, and a B.S. in Psychology- Fayetteville State University. She has many years of experience in the mental health field working with various populations including: adults with developmental delays, children with behavioral issues and adults struggling with anxiety and depression. She has experience working with child welfare, and she utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with her clients. Renessa takes a realistic approach to therapy, meeting the clients where they are to ensure they feel comfortable with opening up and engaging in therapy. In her time off, Renessa enjoys spending time with her family and friends, eating desserts, and doing anything that brings joy in life.

Population Served:

Children ages 10 and up, Adolescents, and Adults. Adults with Anger, Anxiety, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Domestic violence, Trauma. Children with ADHD, aggression, and trauma. Renessa accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Self-Pay Clients.

Techniques:

I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Christian Counseling (Upon Client Request)

Heather Baumhauer, MSW, LCSWA

I am an Associate Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from Fayetteville State University in 2021 and a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Campbell University in 2015. I received my Associates in Human Service Technology from Central Carolina Community College in 2012. I began my career working with adults with intellectual/developmental disorders, mental health diagnoses, and/or substance use. This position fueled my passion for advocating and educating others to alleviate the stigma around mental health. I always knew that I wanted to work with children and adolescents, so I transitioned to the school system as a School Social Worker and later worked with the Mental Health Support team in the school system while obtaining my Master’s degree. As a school social worker, I helped students with a variety of needs and supported families. I was also a part of the crisis team for Harnett County Schools, and I responded to crises in my assigned schools.

Population Served:

Children ages 7 and up, Adolescents, Families/Parents, and Adults. Heather accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Self-Pay Clients.

Techniques:

I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Expressive Arts Therapy
Mindfulness Training Psychoeducation

Andrea "Andi" Compton, Counseling Intern

I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Campbell University. I am thrilled to begin the next step of my education through the completion of internship at Heritage Counseling and Wellness, PLLC under the supervision of Victoria Butler. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology also from Campbell University in 2019 (Go Camels!). During my undergraduate course work, I fell in love with mental processes. I wanted to understand the “why”. I sought to find explanations of thinking, feeling, and behavior. Then I realized mental health goes far beyond the treatment of symptoms. My passion became the “how”. How we got there, and more importantly, how do we get to where we want to be.

I came into the counseling profession to join people on their journey to become the best version of themselves. I am someone who recognizes the value in small details and very much understands that life is a journey, not a destination. Providing a safe space where clients feel welcomed, comfortable, and validated is my goal as a counselor. I look forward to gaining experience with a variety of populations and mental health conditions. Currently, I have interest in eating disorders, women empowerment, and substance abuse.

Population Served:

Children ages 2 and up, Adolescents, Parents, and Adults. Andi accepts clients who are Self-Pay.

Techniques:

I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Expressive Arts Therapy / Play Therapy
Mindfulness Training Psychoeducation
Christian Counseling (Upon Client Request)

Taylor Babcock, Family Support Specialist

I am a Family Support Specialist with a K-6 teaching license. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Consumer Science with a focus in Early Childhood Development from Meredith College in 2010. When I began my career as a kindergarten teacher, I fell in love with mentoring and educating children. Over time, I felt a need to support students and families beyond the classroom.

As a Family Support Specialist, I provide a unique and individual coaching experience for children and families that is essential to building a positive life at home, school, and in the community. I work closely with children and families to foster strong relationships with self, family members, and friends. I provide families with tools to promote physical, social, and academic health. I also work with families to support and identify roles within the family.

Population Served:

Children and Families. Taylor accepts clients who are Self-Pay.

I Specialize in:

Helping families create and set boundaries
Helping families create structure in the home
Academic support- kindergarten prep, model play/art-based learning
Language/Communication Coaching
Behavioral interventions
Faith Based Learning

Richard Beacham, M.S., MDiv, LCMHC

Richard Beacham is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. He has a Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling from Loyola College. He also holds a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Richard is an Ordained Pastor / Licensed Minister. Has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families in turmoil. Richard uses a wholistic approach to counseling by working with the mind, heart, soul, and spirit of the person. We want to do our best to integrate the entire person into counseling. Richard also wants you to feel that counseling is a safe place to share your concerns and worries without feeling judged.

He has experience working with individuals, couples, parents of adopted children, and is experienced as well in working with military personnel. He is licensed in North Carolina.

Population Served:

Families, Couples, and Adults ages 18 and up. Areas of treatment specialization include working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, substance abuse, sex addiction, and pornography addiction. Christian counseling offered upon client request. Richard accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Tricare, Aetna, Cigna, Medcost, and Self-Pay Clients.

Margaret Gurkin, M.S., LCMHCA, LCAS

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) as well as a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist(LCAS). I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from East Carolina University in 2021 and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Johnson and Wales University.

I began my mental health career working in a Adult Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program(SAIOP). From that position I transitioned into the school system working with elementary to high school aged students. Working with these populations provided me experience with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life adjustments, and stress management. My goal as a clinician is to provide a welcoming, safe and validating space to work with clients towards their goals.

Population Served:

Children and Adults ages 12 and up. Margaret accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Self-Pay Clients.

Techniques:

I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Mindfulness
Trauma Informed
Psychoeducation related to trauma
Motivational Interviewing(MI)
Person-Centered

Laura Baker, M.Ed, Counseling Intern

I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Campbell University. I am a graduate of East Carolina University where I earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s of Art in Elementary Education. As a career elementary teacher, I look forward to the opportunity to blend my experience in education with counseling skills as an intern under the supervision of Victoria Butler. My desire to transition my career from education to counseling was influenced tremendously during virtual teaching and remote learning throughout the pandemic. In my role as a teacher, I became very aware of the importance of support and connection in the lives of children and adults. My interaction with adults and children struggling while navigating the pandemic helped me better understand the critical role mental and emotional health play in our overall well-being. It is my goal to provide a safe, nurturing space for clients to explore their personal journey. I enjoy working with clients to build upon existing personal strengths and gain insight into how to meet goals and become a more empowered version of themselves. I look forward to the opportunity to gain experience working with a variety of populations and mental conditions. Currently, I have interest and life experience in divorce, bariatric surgery and weight loss, grief and loss, parenting, and substance abuse. My greatest blessings are my two young adult sons with whom I value spending time. I enjoy a variety of physical activities and hobbies such as hiking/running/biking, camping, spending time on the beach, and numerous DIY projects. I have 2 dogs, 2 goats, and a small flock of chickens.

Population Served:

School age children kindergarten and up, Adolescents, Parents, Adults. Laura accepts clients who are Self-Pay.

I provide Christian counseling upon client request.

Laura Rich, M.Ed, Counseling Intern

I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Campbell University and am excited to join the team at Heritage Counseling and Wellness, PLLC as an intern under the supervision of Victoria Butler. I earned both Bachelor of Arts and Master of Education degrees from Campbell University and spent the last 17 years of my career supporting college students with disabilities. After working with many students managing mental health concerns, I am excited to expand my skills and learn more about providing therapeutic support. I am passionate about creating a welcoming, collaborative environment where clients can learn more about themselves and work toward their own goals and possibilities.

I have experience working with adults with the following mental health concerns: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, stress management, transitions, burnout. I’m especially interested in supporting women with ADHD. I provide Christian counseling upon client request.

Population Served:

Children ages 6 and up, adolescents and adults. Laura accepts clients who are Self-Pay.

Techniques:

I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Expressive Arts Therapy / Play Therapy
Psychoeducation
Motivational Interviewing
Christian Counseling (Upon Client Request)

Sabra Nelson, Administrative Assistant

I am a retired public school teacher of 30 years. I graduated from Campbell University with a Bachelor of Science in Intermediate Education. I am a wife and mother. My loves are Jesus Christ, family, friends and neighbors. I enjoy cutting grass, reading, writing, computers, and working in and around my home. The mental, emotional and spiritual struggles of others are heavy on my heart. I am excited to join Heritage Counseling and Wellness in their quest to provide counseling and encouragement.

Mindy Alphin, Administrative Assistant

I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Campbell University’s School of Education with a Bachelor’s of Science in Child and Family Studies. I have worked with children and families for the last 25 years. My heart is to love Jesus and reflect Him beautifully. My desire is to see children, youth and families know the freedom, comfort and love found in the healing and wholeness of Christ.

Brandon Butler, B.S.

Administrator

I earned a Bachelors degree in Operations / Supply Chain Management and Minor in Accounting from N.C. State University in 2008. Since then, I have worked in business settings ranging from management positions in the automotive industry to leading best of breed supply chain software implementations for Fortune 100 companies.

As a teenager, working in a small local business, I developed a heart for the community. Since then, I have dreamed of owning a small business which makes a positive impact on the community. In an effort to realize our common goals, my wife and I founded Heritage Counseling and Wellness, PLLC in 2020.

Employment opportunities at Heritage Counseling and Wellness are available for licensed mental health professionals.

For information, contact victoriabutler@heritagecw.com