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Meet Our Team of Expert Counselors

Robert S Paul, Bob Paul, LPC, Vice President of Focus on the Family Marriage Institute

Robert S. Paul, MS, LPC

Vice President, Focus on the Family Marriage Institute

Robert received his Bachelor’s Degree from Evangel University, his Master’s Degree from Georgia State University, and a Diploma in Christian Counseling and an honorary doctorate from Psychological Studies Institute. He holds a license in the states of Missouri, Georgia, and Michigan as a Professional Counselor. He is an accomplished speaker who presents regularly at professional conferences and enrichment events both nationally and internationally.



He has appeared on numerous radio and television programs and has co-authored four books including; The DNA of Relationships, with Drs. Gary and Greg Smalley, The DNA of Relationships for Couples with Dr. Greg Smalley, and  9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage – and the Truths That Will Save It and Set It Free with Dr. Greg Smalley.



Robert and his wife, Jenni, live in Springfield, Missouri, have been married for over 40 years. They have four children and six grandchildren.

Brett K. Sparks, PsyD, Lic Psy

Clinical Director

Brett K. Sparks, PsyD, Lic Psy

Dr. Brett Sparks is a licensed psychologist who joined the team in 2003 after his service as a staff psychologist in the U.S. Navy. He is an Intensive therapist as well as the Clinical Site Supervisor at the Branson retreat center. It is his desire to serve Christ and see marriages and individuals thrive. He has experienced the challenges and joys of marriage to his wife, Jennifer, since their journey began in 1993. They have three children--two daughters preparing for their professions and their son in high school.

Ryan Pannell, MA, LMFT

Clinical Director, Missouri

Ryan Pannell, MA, LMFT

Ryan Pannell is a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist and a licensed minister. Prior to coming to Focus on the Family, he was the Director of Counseling at Doulos Ministries in Branson, Missouri, for 6 years. Previously, Ryan was the founder and director of the Woodland Hills Counseling Center in Branson. He was also a Baptist minister in Oklahoma for 6 years before entering the counseling profession. Ryan and his wife Brenda have been married since 1996 and have 1 daughter, 3 sons and a son-in-law.

Sara Lynema, PsyD, Lic Psy

Clinical Director, Michigan

Sara Lynema, PsyD, Lic Psy

Dr. Sara Lynema earned a BA in Psychology from the University of Michigan, an MA in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois Institute of Professional Psychology, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology through Wheaton College. In addition to serving as an intensive therapist, she also operates as the Clinical Site Supervisor for the Michigan clinical team. Sara has been practicing in Michigan since 2010. Sara has gained specialized training in couples therapy, healing from trauma, abuse or neglect, and faith integration. She and her husband have been married since 2004 and have two children.

Dana Sutton, MA, LMFT, LPC

Clinical Director, Georgia

Dana Sutton, MA, LMFT, LPC

Dana Sutton joined the Focus on the Family team in 2013. Dana is thrilled to be working with the Intensives. Her desire is to see marriages find healing through Christ and to restore their hearts and relationships. Along with her husband, Jonathan, Dana has worked in ministry for the past 14 years, including church planting and a ministry to the public schools. They have travelled internationally for the past three years working with missionaries and their marriages. Jonathan and Dana met at Auburn University and married in 2000, and have four wonderful children.

Robert K. Burbee, PhD, Lic Psy

Director of FMI Training and Research

Robert K. Burbee, PhD, Lic Psy

Dr. Bob Burbee has 26 years of experience as a licensed psychologist working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. Bob and his wife, Mary Jo, are active in their church contributing to children and family ministries including facilitating a Sunday school class for engaged and young married couples. Bob and Mary Jo have four children and reside in Springfield, Missouri.

Jennifer Acord, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Jennifer Acord, MA, LPC

Jenny received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family therapy. She and her husband have been youth pastors for over 20 years. Families have been the focus of her ministry and she feels privileged to be allowed to journey beside couples as they experience God’s miraculous healing powers. She has been married to her husband, Rick, since 1991 with three children and adding to their family as the Lord blesses. They currently live in Springfield, MO.

Ben Adamson, MA, LPC, LMFT

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Ben Adamson, MA, LPC, LMFT

Ben’s desire is to see lives and relationships transformed; his included. He is excited to be with the Focus on the Family team to serve couples and marriages in need. Ben also sees people at Building Intimate Marriages, Inc., a private practice in the Atlanta area. Ben earned his undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of Georgia. He completed his MA in Marriage and Family Therapy at Richmont Graduate University. He and his wife, Sarah, were married in 2014. Outside of the counseling office, Ben enjoys going on adventures with his wife and browsing the aisles of any sporting goods store.

Leslie Bashioum, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Leslie Bashioum, MS, LPC

Leslie received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Evangel University and is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. Leslie is honored to be a part of the Focus on the Family team and to be able to come alongside couples on their journeys. It is her passion to walk alongside couples and help them experience a sense of empowerment, hope, and healing. Leslie and her husband, Matt, have two teenage boys. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time on Table Rock Lake.

Stephen Bell, PhD, LMFT

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Stephen Bell, PhD, LMFT

Dr. Bell is a professor of Family Studies and Social Services at the College of the Ozarks. Dr. Bell earned his MS (Harding University) and PhD (University of Louisiana at Monroe) degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy. He is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In addition to Dr. Bell’s work at Hope Restored and College of the Ozarks, he and his wife, Tracy, are Co-Founders of Family Fanatics, LLC. Family Fanatics offer various services to strengthen marriages/families. Dr. Bell and Tracy reside in Branson, Missouri with their three daughters and son. Dr. Bell feels very honored and blessed that God has opened an opportunity to serve married couples at Focus on the Family.

Tracy Bell, LMSW

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Tracy Bell, LMSW

Tracy earned her Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of Arkansas. She earned her BA in Family Life Counseling and Psychology from Ouachita Baptist University. Tracy is a Missouri Licensed Social Worker, a Nationally Certified Life Coach, and an Assistant Professor at the College of the Ozarks. She is a certified Neurosequential therapist and serves those who have survived trauma. She is thrilled to be working along side a team at Focus on the Family. Tracy married her husband Stephen in 2004 and they have 4 children.

Verlette Berndt, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Verlette Berndt, MA, LPC

As a marriage intensive therapist since 2005, Verlette loves journeying alongside individuals and couples on the way to healing, restoration and reconnection. She received her Master of Arts in Counseling from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary in 1995 and is a licensed professional counselor. Having also been a licensed minister, youth pastor, and then a counselor for families in crisis, she is dedicated to assist couples in healing and rebuilding from the inevitable struggles of life. Verlette and her husband Chris were married in 1999 and are devoted to their two precious daughters.

April Bordeau, MA, LCSW

Marriage Intensive Therapist

April Bordeau, MA, LCSW

April received her Bachelor’s Degree from Purdue University and her Master’s Degree from the University of Michigan, She holds a license in the states of Indiana and Michigan, and has been working with families for over 25 years. April owns and operates Care to Change Counseling, a Christian counseling center in Indiana, whose team is part of the Focus of the Family Counselor Network. April and her husband of over 20 years, Randy, and two teenagers live just outside Indianapolis.

Christopher Bruton, PhD, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Christopher Bruton, PhD, LPC

Dr. Bruton has been counseling individuals through a variety of mental health concerns since 2008. As he has developed as a practitioner, Chris has found great satisfaction expanding his work with couples. As he has started to work with Focus on the Family in 2020, he has grown even more as a couple’s therapist and has been deeply moved by the program FOTF provides. I am married to Bobbie, my encourager and friend, and together we have three sons, Ellis, Daniel, and Asher, who are my joy and my adventure. We are a mess and are imperfect, but we love and strive to celebrate one another.

Ken Bryant, PhD, LPC, NCC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Ken Bryant, PhD, LPC, NCC

Ken Bryant has a Ph.D. in Counselor Education from the University of North Texas-Denton, an M.S. in Counseling from Pittsburg State University, a B.A.in Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and a B.A. in Biblical Literature for Ozark Christian College. Ken is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Colorado and a National Certified Counselor. Ken serves as the Founder/President of Oak Tree Marriage & Family Ministries. He served as a church pastor for over 30 years. Ken and his wife, Carol, have been married since 1970 and have been blessed with four sons, four daughters-in-law, and have grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Lisa Butler, EdS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Lisa Butler, EdS, LPC

Lisa has been married to her husband Charlie since 1998. Lisa and Charlie have two boys and reside in Springfield. Lisa has a MA degree in Educational Psychology and an Educational Specialist degree in school psychology from the University of Colorado-Denver. Lisa worked as a school psychologist in Colorado for over 15 years until her family moved to Missouri. Lisa is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She provides counseling and she teaches her own parenting curriculum, Positive & Powerful Christian Parenting at McGuire Christian Counseling. Lisa has been a part of the Hope Restored ministry since 2018. She considers it a privilege to come alongside couples on their healing journey.

Lyndsey Cherry, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Lyndsey Cherry, MA, LPC

Lyndsey is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the State of Missouri. Lyndsey was in private practice for 6 years in Springfield, MO with McGuire Christian Counseling where she worked with a wide variety of individuals, families, and couples. She is thrilled to be part of the Focus on the Family team and loves to see the insight and healing that individuals and couples experience during an intensive. Lyndsey and her husband, Jeff, have been married since 2006 and have three children.

Rachelle Colegrove, MA, LPC, CST

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Rachelle Colegrove, MA, LPC, CST

Rachelle is a licensed professional counselor in Missouri, a certified sex therapist and a licensed minister. Rachelle is passionate about coming alongside couples to help them discover a marriage they both love. In addition, her many years of ministry experience equip Rachelle for understanding unique pressures many ministry couples face. Rachelle and her husband, Greg, also travel and speak at weekend marriage conferences. Rachelle and Greg have been married for 30+ years and have two adult sons and a daughter-in-law.

Wendy Crawford, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Wendy Crawford, MS, LPC

Wendy is a LPC in the state of Georgia. Her Master's Degree is from Georgia State University in 2002 and has been practicing in the Atlanta area since that time. From 2002-2010 Wendy worked as a therapist with Still Waters Counseling Center. She was also certified by the National Child Advocacy Center as a Forensic Interviewer of Children and was contracted by law enforcement to conduct forensic interviews. In 2011, Wendy became the founder of Georgia Christian Counseling, Inc. Wendy has been married to Rich since 1999, and they have 3 children.

Jonathan DiStaulo, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Jonathan DiStaulo, MA, LPC

Jonathan was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec. As a young adult, serving alongside his father in an Italian/English speaking congregation, Jonathan began to observe the pressures placed on families in vocational ministry. In addition to his work at Focus on the Family, Jonathan counsels individuals and families through his own private practice Foundations Counseling & Consulting. Jonathan was married to Dusty in 1996 and they have 4 children. Jonathan is a licensed minister and served as a worship leader and pastoral care minister for many years in churches in Missouri and Massachusetts.

Pamela L. Frey, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Pamela L. Frey, MA, LPC

Pam is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and co-founder of Tradewinds Counseling and Consulting. After her first full time job as a deputy sheriff, she and her family served overseas for more than 20 years in various capacities in world missions. Since 2009, she has served as a member care consultant for global missions workers assisting in crisis situations, life difficulties, transition, and leadership training. She has a heart to be present with people as they maneuver difficult seasons of life. Married since 1979, Pam and her husband, Butch, have two children, grandchildren and a silver Labrador Retriever, Maggie.

N. Joel Fry, MSW, LISW, LCSW

Marriage Intensive Therapist

N. Joel Fry, MSW, LISW, LCSW

Joel Fry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who joined the Intensive team in 2020. He currently serves as an Intensive Therapist with Hope Restored and has a private practice where he has worked with marriage since 2005. Prior to private practice Joel worked in hospice and end of life care where he was blessed to journey with patients and families through one of the most intimate times of life. Joel and his wife, Heather, live in Iowa and keep busy with the activities of their 9 children. One of Joel's passions is to journey with couples as the healing power of Jesus Christ transforms hearts and minds.

Michael Harris, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Michael Harris, MA, LPC

Michael (Mike) Harris and wife, Angela, have been married for more than 30 years and have three adult children. Mike is a Pastor as well as Licensed Professional Counselor. He has served in ministry for more than 25 years and is a veteran of the US Air Force. He has a BA in Pastoral Ministry and a Master's degree in Counseling/Psychology.

Pam Hazell, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Pam Hazell, MS, LPC

Pam feels very blessed to be a part of the Focus on the Family team. Pam has a private practice, Cornerstone Christian Counseling, and assists clients at Woodland Hills Family Church. Pam earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from College of the Ozarks and her M.S. in Counseling at Southwest Missouri State University. She has served for many years in the Branson School district as both an elementary teacher and school counselor. Pam has been married to her husband Gary have been married since 1997. They have two sons and enjoy spending time with family on Table Rock Lake.

William Hemphill, II MDiv. LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

William Hemphill, II MDiv. LPC

William Hemphill is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. He received his Masters of Divinity from Emory University and Masters of Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University. In addition to working with Focus on the Family, he sees individuals and couples at Faith and Family Empowerment in Metro Atlanta, GA. William has spent the past thirty years working in various ministry settings from college ministry to chaplaincy and pastoring. He believes that a strong marriage is the foundation of the family, which in turn is the foundation of a strong society. Nothing brings him more joy than to see the lives of couples transformed by God’s grace. William married his wife Cheryl in 1995 and they have three children. In his free time, William enjoys traveling with his wife and children.

Travis Hill, LPC, MMFT

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Travis Hill, LPC, MMFT

Travis is a Marriage and Family Therapist and specializes in Sex Therapy, and he works at the FMI campus in Rome, GA. Travis has a heartfelt desire to serve Christ through helping couples find greater intimacy, trust, healing, and hope in all stages of relationships. He also has a deep desire to help men struggling with various sexual issues and struggles that can cause problems in their relationship with God and others. He has been married to his wonderful wife Stephanie for almost 27 years, and they have two daughters, a son-in-law, and two sons.

Rachel H. Hillmer, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Rachel H. Hillmer, MS, LPC

Rachel is a Licensed Professional Counselor experienced in counseling couples, adults and teens. She previously spent 14 years as a high school counselor and, more recently, as a therapist in private practice with Eaglecrest Counseling in Springfield, MO. She has a passion for helping couples find healing in their marriage relationships and considers it a blessing to work with couples through Hope Restored Marriage Intensives. She and her husband Ted lived in many areas of the United States during his career with the National Park Service. Calling Table Rock Lake in MO their home now, they love spending time with their 3 daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, and friends.

Cindy Irwin, MA, LMTF, ABCST

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Cindy Irwin, MA, LMTF, ABCST

Cindy Irwin is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified Christian Sex Therapist. Along with being a part of the Hope Restored Intensive program since 2003, she is also the founder of Life By Design, a counseling center and ministry that specializes in Sexual Wholeness. Her passion is to help individuals gain insight and to experience all that God has designed for intimacy. Cindy is also the creator of Heart Care Chapel which ministers to ministers who are struggling with discouragement, wounding or family difficulties. Cindy and her husband Steve began their journey together in 1985 and have two children.

Suzy Jordan, MA

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Suzy Jordan, MA

Suzy received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from Richmont University. Suzy has a heart to see marriages restored through Christ's redeeming power. Since being a participant in a marriage intensive in 2007, Suzy is honored to partner with Focus on the Family to be able to walk alongside other couples in their journey. In addition, Suzy serves as the Leadership Care Director at Crosspoint City Church. She has been married to Glenn for over 30 years, and they have two children.

Brian Kase, MA

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Brian Kase, MA

Brian received his Master of Arts Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and completed his Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance at Berry College. Brian is passionate about helping others develop life giving self‐care practices and seeing marriages redeemed. He considers it an honor and privilege to have worked with married couples in a pastoral counseling setting for the last 10+ years. Brian is an ordained minister and also serves as the Executive Pastor of Administration and CFO at West Ridge Church. He has been married to his wife Kayla since 2012, and together they enjoy traveling to new places and going on adventures with their two boys.

Jen Krause, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist
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Jen Krause, LPC

Jen earned a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Evangel University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Missouri. She established her private practice, Peaceful Mind Counseling and Consulting, in Springfield MO where she specializes in trauma, mood, anxiety, and co-occurring disorders. She feels privileged to join couples as they seek hope and restoration of their marriages. Jen has been married to her husband, Mark, for 14 years. They enjoy spending time outdoors and traveling.

Hannah Littlepage, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Hannah Littlepage, MS, LPC

Hannah is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) who earned her Master’s degree from Evangel University. For nearly a decade, she worked with an inpatient residential population of adolescents and families in crisis, and is an EMDR trained therapist. Hannah and her husband have been married since 2012, and have one child. They serve in ministry together focusing on youth, their families, and discipleship. She considers it an honor to work alongside couples at Hope Restored and a blessing to be a part of the Focus on the Family team.

Carol Loya, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Carol Loya, MA, LPC

Carol received her Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary in 2007 and has been licensed in Missouri since 2008. She and her husband served as missionaries to Costa Rica for over 14 years where they felt burdened to help couples and families struggling with spiritual and relationship issues. As a therapist, Carol has worked with adults and youth in the areas of behavioral health and addictions. She and her husband Max have been married 40 years and have 7 children. Her heart’s desire is to help hurting couples find hope and she is blessed to be a part of Hope Restored.

Max M. Loya, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Max M. Loya, MA, LPC

Max has over 35 years of experience working with couples and families in different cultures. As an ordained minister, Max served as a missionary in Latin America for 14 years. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Max led the fatherhood program at a crisis pregnancy center and was the Clinical Director of a residential facility for youth with emotional and behavioral issues. Max and his wife, Carol, have been married for 40 years and have 7 children. They live in Springfield, MO, where they also have their own counseling practice.

Kelsey Mitchell, LMFT

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Kelsey Mitchell, LMFT

Kelsey is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the states of Michigan and Kentucky. She has long been passionate about supporting families toward health and wholeness in Jesus’ name. When Kelsey is not at a marriage intensive, she is supporting her husband in his pastoral role, raising their three children, and learning how to garden.

Todd Monroe, LMSW

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Todd Monroe, LMSW

Todd has been serving families with emotional needs since 1992. Beginning his career with foster care children, he has worked in psychiatric settings, as a Counseling pastor, and at his outpatient practice, Grand Rapids Therapy Group. Todd completed his BA in Psychology at Cornerstone University and his MSW at Grand Valley State University. He and his wife Kathleen are raising their blended family of 5 together. His passions include fatherhood, golfing, nature, music, and seeking the heart of his Savior on a daily basis.

Vicki Morgan, LPC, LMFT

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Vicki Morgan, LPC, LMFT

Vicki received her Master’s degree in Counseling from Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Vicki enjoys coming along side individuals, couples, and families as they seek personal wellbeing and restored relationships. She served in ministry for many years with her husband, Bruce, and has been an intensive therapist for Focus on the Family since 2014. Vicki and Bruce have been married since 1984. They have four grown sons, four lovely daughters-in-law, and have been blessed with grandchildren.

Alex Muzichuk, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Alex Muzichuk, MA, LPC

Alex Muzichuk received his Master’s degree in Marriage & Family Counseling from Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. He practices as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri and Michigan. Furthermore, as an ordained minister, Alex brings years of ministry experience and awareness of the ministry dynamics that influence family life. He speaks Russian, Ukrainian, and English. Alex’s Slavic heritage brings a new perspective to family life in American culture. Alex married Natalie in 2006, with their children they enjoy traveling and doing ministry as a family.

Cynthia Nicholson, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Cynthia Nicholson, MA, LPC

As a licensed counselor and featured speaker in churches and conferences for over thirty years throughout the United States and Latin America, Cynthia has focused on marriage and home and women’s issues. Cynthia has been working with Focus on the Family since 2005, bringing insights from a cross-cultural perspective. Having served with her husband, Richard, fourteen years as missionaries in Argentina and Mexico, they continue to travel extensively, providing marriage seminars in Spanish-speaking venues.

Nathan J. Phillips, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Nathan J. Phillips, MS, LPC

Nathan worked in a Residential Treatment Center for adolescents for 8 years prior to serving a missionary in Zaire, East Africa along with his wife Jane and their two boys, Isaac and Andy. They co-founded Battlefield Ministries in 1996 where he serves as CEO, counselor & trip leader. Both he and Jane help lead worship in their local fellowship when they are not ministering to missionaries alongside a number of sending organizations all over the world. He has co-authored two books, three music projects and regularly leads marriage retreats and adventures. Nathan has been leading Intensives with what is now Focus since the early 2000s. Nathan & Jane reside in Rome, GA.

Nikki Pinkley, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Nikki Pinkley, MS, LPC

Nikki is a licensed professional counselor in Missouri. Nikki has worked in the private practice setting since 2008. She is the founding director of Restoring Wellness Counseling, LLC. Nikki is thrilled to be a part of the Focus on the Family team and considers it a blessing to have the opportunity to serve as a vessel to couples who seek the full potential of their relationships. Nikki and her husband, Matt, have been married since 2008 and enjoy spending time with their daughter and son.

Carol Rasche, MA, LLP, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Carol Rasche, MA, LLP, LPC

Carol is a Limited Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from John Brown University and her MA in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University. She has a Certification in Formational Prayer from Healing Care Ministries International. She facilitates Healing Journey and Spiritual Formation Groups. Carol has been a Trauma Therapist and a Behavioral Health Counselor in medical clinics, a psychiatric hospital and private practice. Carol has journeyed through the pain of infidelity, divorce, re‐marriage and blended family. As a wounded healer, she is very grateful for God’s grace and how He transforms difficulty into new life and ministry.

Mayra Richards, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Mayra Richards, LPC

Mayra Richards is a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Atlanta, GA. Mayra is passionate about helping individuals and couples become closer to themselves, their loved ones, and God. She works with people who feel disconnected from their authentic selves, confused about life direction, or want to learn more about their emotions. Mayra earned her Master’s degree from Richmont Graduate University. Her goal is to empower clients to discover their life purpose and take steps towards that life purpose. Mayra approaches therapy using evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). With CBT, Mayra helps clients break free from harmful thought patterns and connect their emotions to their actions.

Ryan Rose, LLPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Ryan Rose, LLPC

Ryan is a pastor and LLPC in Michigan. He received his MA in counseling from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He has been married to his wife, Joanna, for 19 years and they have four children ranging in age from mid-teens to preschool. One of his favorite pastimes is hanging out at a rustic cabin in the woods that he and his family have been working on for the last few years. His prayer is to help people struggling in their marriage to move toward health and repair their relationship with God and with each other.

Scott Schmidt, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Scott Schmidt, MS, LPC

Scott received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and his Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Evangel University. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Missouri. Scott has also worked in private practice since 2013. He joined the team at Focus Marriage Institute in 2017. Scott and his wife Penny married in 1998 and are blessed with three wonderful children, one son and two daughters. Scott loves family time, vacations, and holidays spent together. He and his wife are also active in their church, serving together as volunteers. Some of Scott's other interests include reading, woodworking, and spending time in outdoor activities.

Shar Schroyer, MA, LLP

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Shar Schroyer, MA, LLP

Shar is committed to the ever changing challenges and blessings in marriage because a strong marriage is a picture of Christ's love for the church. She believes the FOTF marriage materials have enriched her own marriage and she is excited to participate in that process with other couples. Shar received her undergraduate degree from Cornerstone University, her masters in counseling from Western Michigan University and she has completed course work in Health Psychology, at the doctorate level. She has been married since 1982, has three grown children, and five grandchildren. In her off-time, Shar enjoys living on a rural hobby farm with her husband and chickens, as well as the dog, Ruger AKA the wonder spaniel.

Eric Joseph (Joey) Staples, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Eric Joseph (Joey) Staples, MS, LPC

Eric Joseph (Joey) Staples has a B.A. in Psychology and an M.S. in Educational Psychology from Baylor University. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Louisiana, a Certified Family Counselor and a Board-Certified Professional Christian Counselor. As an Ordained Minister, Joey is the Family Life Pastor at First Baptist Church in Branson, Missouri. In his role at the church, Joey oversees family growth, leads several Bible Study classes, and counsels with individuals, couples, families and groups. After 30+ years in the field, he joined the Focus team in 2015 and considers it an honor to come along side couples in their time of need. Joey and his wife Jeanie have been married since 1981 and live in Branson. They have a wonderful son and daughter and a bunch of fun, beautiful grandchildren.

Kara Stone, MA,LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Kara Stone, MA,LPC

Kara is a Licensed Professional Counselor serving in the St. Louis and surrounding areas since 2008. In 2012, she established M.O.V.E. (Making Our Vows Eternal) Christian Counseling and is a certified Practitioner in the Aroma Freedom Technique using essential oils in her therapy. Kara desires to instill in her clients hope for their future, freedom from their past, and offer tools to embrace what they are given each day. She is excited to empower couples through Focus on the Family so marriages can heal, families can be restored, and communities can be impacted by Christ-centered marriages and families. She has been married to her husband, Tim, since 2012 and they have 4 children.

Laura Tate, MS, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Laura Tate, MS, LPC

Laura received her Bachelor’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Central Bible College and her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Evangel University. Laura is a License Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. Laura also works in private practice at McGuire Christian Counseling and serves as a care pastor alongside her husband, Andy. Laura and Andy married in 1992 and have three grown sons and three daughters-in-law.

M. Kelly Ward, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

M. Kelly Ward, MA, LPC

Kelly Ward, MA, LPC received his master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Missouri and Texas, and an ordained minister. Raised in a pastor's home and being in ministry for over 30 years himself, Kelly has a deep understanding of family life in ministry and in the church. He has a private practice in Texas with experience in marriage, PTSD, parenting and attachment. Kelly has been married to his high school sweetheart, Alisa, since 1988. They have four children and several grandchildren. Kelly and Alisa also direct Sole Mission, a nonprofit organization provided new shoes to kids in need across the United States.

Monique Wells, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Monique Wells, MA, LPC

Monique (a Canadian) and Grant (a New Zealander) were married in 1993 and have two beautiful daughters, Emma Clare and Phoebe. They moved to Rome, GA in 2006 to join the adjunct faculty of WinShape Marriage and for Monique to partner with Battlefield Ministries, a ministry that focuses on Christian marriages and couples. Along with a private practice Monique partners with Grant to lead marriage retreats and Bible studies.

Nick White, MA, APC, PCC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Nick White, MA, APC, PCC

Nick received his BS in Human Growth and Development from the University of Georgia and his MA in Counseling from Colorado Christian University. He is an Associate Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia. Prior to joining the Hope Restored team of therapists, he worked with Focus on the Family in Colorado Springs for nearly 18 years. He is passionate about helping people get their life back, specifically working with individuals and couples at Georgia Counseling Center, Inc. in the Atlanta area. His heart for serving others comes out of his own personal journey as a man, husband, and father. Nick and his wife, Jamie, have been married over 15 years and enjoy going on adventures with their three children to see new places.

Janet Williams, MA, LPC, LLP, MAML

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Janet Williams, MA, LPC, LLP, MAML

Janet earned her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, from Spring Arbor University. She also earned a second Master’s in Ministry Leadership from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. She is a licensed professional counselor and a master’s level licensed psychologist in the state of Michigan. She and her husband Terence have 2 adult children and two grandchildren. In her free time she enjoys traveling and ministering with her husband. Janet feels very blessed to be able to be a part of Focus on the Family by coming alongside couples as they journey towards the divine design God had in mind! .

Terence W. Williams, LMSW, MAML

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Terence W. Williams, LMSW, MAML

Terence (Terry) is a fully licensed social worker with the State of Michigan. He has worked as a professional counselor since earning a Master of Social Work from Western Michigan University in 1990. Terry is honored to join the Focus on the Family team and hopes to be used by the Lord to be a blessing to couples. Terry specializes in substance abuse, and gambling addiction. Terry has been married to his wife Janet for more than thirty-five years and they have 2 adult children and 2 grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoys comedies, traveling, and reading.

Tim Williams, PhD, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Tim Williams, PhD, LPC

Tim received his Master’s Degree in Education from Missouri Baptist University and a PhD in Counseling from Liberty University. He is a licensed professional counselor in Missouri. In addition to his work as a therapist, Tim contributes to the therapist training program and is involved in new product development. Tim and his wife Carol live in the Branson area and have been married over 35 years.

Michael Todd Wilson, LPC, CST

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Michael Todd Wilson, LPC, CST

Michael Todd Wilson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Georgia and Florida, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist with the American Board of Christian Sex Therapists. In addition to nearly 30 years of experience, he has authored three Christian books: two related to sexuality and one promoting healthy self-care among ministry leaders. Michael Todd specializes in working with individuals and marriages in the areas of sexual integrity recovery and overall marital health. He and his wife live in Rome, Georgia with their two kids and the friendliest standard poodle you will ever meet.

Kathy Wingo, EdD, LPC, LMFT

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Kathy Wingo, EdD, LPC, LMFT

Kathy earned her Masters and Doctorate degrees in Counselor Education from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. She is licensed as both a Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her counseling work began as an elementary school counselor in 1985 and after five years, she transitioned to work in private practice for many years. Kathy joined the Focus team in 2015. and considers it an honor to come alongside couples in their time of need. Kathy and her husband Richard have been married since 1994 and have one grown son.

Sarah Young, MA, LPC

Marriage Intensive Therapist

Sarah Young, MA, LPC

Sarah holds a Master’s in Counseling from Spring Arbor University, and has counseled individuals and couples for over a decade. She enjoys engaging people in the reality of the richness of God’s plan, and how He flips brokenness for His glory. Sarah has a specific heart for intimacy issues, and holds specialized training in sex therapy from the Institute for Sexual Wholeness. Prior to joining the Focus team, she was in private practice at the Winning at Home Wellness Center. She and her husband, Lance, have been married since 2003, and have three children.

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