- Categories :
- Urgent Care
- Hospitals
- Wellness
- Doctors
Print
Transforming Lives Through Comprehensive Behavioral Health Care
About Us
At LifeSpring Behavioral Health, we provide exceptional, individualized behavioral healthcare from a Biblical perspective with honesty and integrity. We believe true life transformation requires an integrated approach addressing the whole person, including the mind, body, and spirit. Evaluating factors from genetics, personality, relationships, and lifestyle enables a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs. In response to COVID-19, Telehealth is available.
Our Team
Peter A. Johnson, M.D.
Dr. Johnson is a board-certified, adult behavioral medicine specialist who inspires and empowers motivated individuals to achieve life transformation. His passion is helping established and emerging leaders achieve their highest potential and maximize their impact on those around them.
Dr. Johnson graduated magna cum laude from Bowdoin College and was awarded departmental honors in neuroscience. He received his M.D. from Baylor College of Medicine, where he then completed his residency training. He served as chief resident at The Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and at The Menninger Clinic. He and his wife have two children. christian counseling
Kathryn T. Rutland, M.D., MPH
Dr. Rutland uses an integrative approach to the treatment of addiction and aims to offer her clients excellence in care for chemical dependency and related problems. She is a fierce advocate for clients with dependency problems and is dedicated to helping clients and families find hope and healing, meeting people wherever they are in the process of change.
Understanding that addictive disorders have many causes, Dr. Rutland will explore the elements leading up to your symptoms and help you find a way forward. She creates a safe, reliable, and nurturing environment through which healing can occur.
During your consultation, you can explore the possible bio-psycho-social contributions to your symptoms and establish a comprehensive treatment plan that is specialized to your needs. Your visit may include psychiatric medications and/or psychotherapy, discussions regarding matters of lifestyle such as stress management & mindfulness, harm-reduction, relapse prevention, or 12- step support. Dr. Rutland may collaborate with trusted practitioners in complementary disciplines when necessary.
Dr. Rutland is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine, completed medical school at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and residency at the University of Louisville. She also has a master's degree in public health from the University of Kentucky, and a BS in Sociology where she graduated magna cum laude. She completed her training in addiction medicine in Houston, Texas under some of the best-known psychiatrists and addictionologists in the state.
Hilary Butella, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
Hilary Butella is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a secondary certification in family practice. Hilary provides individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, emotional health and spirituality. She strives to promote health and wellness in a compassionate, empathetic setting. Hilary is passionate about her faith and is inspired to help her patients grow stronger in theirs.
Hilary received her Post-Master's Certification in the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at Vanderbilt University where she graduated with honors and is currently completing a doctoral program. She also holds a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Houston where she served as a member of nursing faculty for 2 years. Hilary received Bachelor of Science degrees from Texas A&M University and Texas Woman's University. Hilary and her husband live in the Klein area with their two daughters. Christian counseling
J. Michael Smith, DHSc, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry
J. Michael Smith is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry. He believes that God is the ultimate healer, and that integrating faith and psychiatric medicine provides hope and support to people in need, utilizing best evidence-based practices. He believes in educating patients regarding lifestyle choices to promote mental, emotional, and spiritual health, and utilizes best practices to treat the spectrum of psychiatric conditions, with compassion and a genuine love for his patients.
Dr. Smith obtained his PA training at the University of Texas Medical Branch and a Master's of PA Studies from the University of Nebraska. He completed his Doctor of Health Science at NOVA-Southeastern University. He has been a psychiatric PA with 35 years psychiatric clinical experience in private practice, the U.S. Navy and the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. He retired from the Navy at the rank of Captain, Medical Service Corps and is an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran.
He worked for 25 years at the VA in Mental Health, with a special interest and experience in sleep disorders, PTSD, neuromodulation, and academic psychiatry. He teaches as clinical faculty for Baylor College of Medicine, UTMB, and Hardin-Simmons University, and has lectured at state and national conferences. Dr. Smith created and served as Program Director for the VA/Baylor PA Psychiatry Residency for five years, where he has trained over a dozen PAs in the specialty of psychiatry. He and his wife have three adult children and live in Sugar Land. Christian counseling
Tammy E. Nix, MA, LPC, LCDC
Tammy Nix is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor who has worked in her field for over 8 years. She has a wide range of experience working with kids to adults in all transitions of life. She has extensive clinical experience in mental health hospitals, addiction treatment facilities, nonprofit organizations and outpatient practices. Tammy's diverse background allows her to help address many topics such as stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, trauma, mood disorders, mental health issues and marriage and family counseling. She has a humanistic style that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and faith based principles to help people achieve their healthiest life possible. She has lived in the Houston area most of her life. She has been married for 17 years, has 5 children and her family has cared for many children in foster care.
Tammy earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Texas at Arlington. She then went on to get her Master of Arts in Counseling from Houston Graduate School of Theology. She has additionally been trained in addiction, trauma focused care and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life is not always easy. If you are struggling and looking for support, why don't you take that first step and give her a call. Through a relationship based on trust and respect, in counseling, you can walk through life's journey together and make positive changes in your life! Tammy understands life is a journey and it does not have to be done alone. Her greatest joy in life is helping others reach their full potential. She is here to support you in achieving the goals you have for your life.
Christopher M. Crawford, LSCW-S, LCDC
Christopher M. Crawford, LSCW-S, LCDC, has over 20 years therapeutic experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults with mental health and substance abuse disorders. Chris, a native Houstonian, returned home, after living in New Orleans and completing his master's in social work from Tulane University with a focus on individual and couple therapies.
Upon his return to Houston in 2011, Chris began working with adolescents in a substance abuse disorder outpatient program. Chris' passion for clients with substance abuse disorders lead him to develop a relapse and recovery program and expand services in an inpatient professionals/executives program, which included developing treatment assignments and detailed discharge plans. Chris' therapeutic style focuses on Humanistic, Existential, and Gestalt modalities. Chris embraces the emotional responses in relationships, as well as the “here and now” approach. Chris has researched, developed, and implemented interventions related to the relapse and attachment theory approach. Chris, a strong proponent of 12-Step Recovery Programs, has worked extensively with employee assistance professionals, the Texas Physician Health Program, the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses, and The Professional Recovery Network.
Chris resides in Spring, Texas, with his wife, two boys, and two wonderful cats. Chris is an avid sports fan, who is happiest when coaching his boys in baseball.
Emily M. Lash, M.A., NCC, LPC-Intern
Emily M. Lash, MA, NCC, LPC-I strives to embolden individuals to meet life's challenges with insight, courage, and hope through a constructive therapeutic relationship. She is licensed to practice professional counseling in the state of Texas and receives supervision from Sonya Heckler-Cheyne, Ph.D. Emily earned her master's degree in counseling from Northwestern University and her bachelor's degree from Baylor University.
Her clinical experience includes working with a diverse clientele of adolescents and adult individuals, couples, and groups in the Charlotte and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas. She integrates psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and logotherapy to help individuals gain self-understanding, implement helpful thought and behavior patterns, and find opportunities for healing and growth. Her core counseling values are rooted in Biblical teachings.
She and her husband are thrilled to return to the Houston area where they are surrounded by family, friends, and a supportive church community. Emily enjoys leading group fitness classes and spending time in the beautiful mountains of Southwestern Colorado. Christian counseling
Michael P. Groves, MA, NCC, LPC
Michael Groves is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Michael received a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sam Houston State University, a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary, and a bachelors from Auburn University. He spent more than 20 years in pastoral ministry in Texas counseling individuals, couples, and families facing many diverse life challenges. He then spent 11 years in the construction industry in Alaska managing his father's company and performed sales and management for another large construction company. Recently he served as counselor intern for the Good Shepherd Mission in Huntsville working with the homeless and transient dealing with addictions, transition from prison life, and numerous disorders and other life difficulties.
Michael's goal is to empower individuals, couples, and families to deal with tough and debilitating problems and empower them to reach their personal, relational, educational, and professional goals in life. He believes this is best accomplished in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental, and encouraging relationship between counselor and client. Michael's approach is both positive and challenging as he enters the world of the client to journey together probing underlying complications and discovering life changing solutions. Michael's focus is marriage and family issues, dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, and life transitions. He strives to aid individuals, couples, and families by diminishing hurt and pain, developing strategies to cope with life's trials, and increasing a sense of joy, purpose, and meaning in life. Michael is the father of three grown children and four wonderful grandchildren.
Kathryn Wainscott, MA, MCMHC
Kathryn Wainscott, M.A., LPC-Associate's primary clinical interests lie in helping to develop the coping skills of children, adolescents, and adults during major transitional periods in their lives, such as, college and career counseling, pre- and post-marital counseling, infidelity recovery, and pre/postpartum depression, OCD, and psychosis counseling. Additionally, she has experience with mental health disorders varying from ADHD/ADD, the autism spectrum in children, personality disorders, bipolar 1 & 2, depression, and anxiety. Kathryn earned both her bachelor's degree in medical and health studies and her master's degree in clinical and mental health counseling from The University of Oklahoma. (Boomer Sooner!)
Her warm and open demeanor naturally cultivates immediate personal connection with others. She has the genuine gift of empathizing with clients, allowing them to express and explore some of their most intimate and profound life experiences. Her holistic approach to intake and treatment differentiates her from a mere psychological approach to diagnosis, assessment, and evaluation. She believes biological, social, socioeconomic, and other non-cognitive factors are an essential part of diagnosis and treatment planning while striving to achieve optimal results for a client. She is a stern advocate for a multidisciplinary team approach to evaluation and treatment; and regularly consult with her fellow mental health professionals, as well as teachers, doctors, and members of her clients' emotional infrastructure to provide the highest possible level of care. Kathryn was baptized, confirmed, married in, and is a member of The Woodlands United Methodist Church, and offers Christian counseling services for those who wish to integrate their faith into the therapeutic process, but is knowledgeable and open to offering counseling services to all cultures, religions, and spiritualities.
Kathryn is a native of The Woodlands, Texas, graduated from The Woodlands College Park High School in 2013, and is thrilled in returning to Greater Houston area, with her husband, where they are surrounded by their friends and family. Kathryn is an avid Sooners fan, enjoys sipping a good cup of coffee on a cold morning, and is happiest spending time at her family's lake house.
Kathryn is currently under the supervision of Christie Farris, M.A., LMFT-S, LPC-S.
Nicole Garrett, MA, LPC-Associate
Nicole Garrett, M.A., LPC-Associate's hope is to empower her clients to be all that God intends for them to be. She sees the path to healing and wholeness as a journey and not a destination. Her approach to counseling is a collaborative process between the client and the counselor. Nicole works primarily from a person-centered approach utilizing other models and techniques as they are helpful. She seeks to provide a safe place and a climate of understanding and acceptance for her clients to be able to courageously work through life's difficulties. Nicole considers it a privilege to come alongside her clients as they seek healing and growth.
Through her work of over ten years leading groups for women struggling after an abortion Nicole first felt called to pursue a career in counseling. She earned her Master of Arts in Biblical counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. Her background includes working with teens in a residential treatment center and also working in a church counseling center. She especially has a heart for working with teens and women who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse. Her training includes trauma-informed care, attachment-based therapy, sand tray therapy, internal family systems, and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). Additionally, she is a certified RelateStrong facilitator.
She is married and has two kids. She loves nature and enjoys spending time outdoors. In her free time she likes to exercise-walk, lift weights, take group classes and do yoga. She loves the energizing effect that exercise has on her.
Nicole is currently under the supervision of Sara Mischler, MA, LPC-S
Chad Anderson, MA, LPC-S
Chad Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. Chad received a Masters of Art in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has worked with children and teens struggling with behavioral and mental health challenges in a non-profit setting for 18 years and also had experience working as a teacher, youth minister, and coach. Chad also has experience working with adults and married couples while contracting with a private practice facility.
Chad's counseling experience includes working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD,
oppositional behaviors, anger, premarital/marriage issues, relationship issues, life transitions,
obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar, attachment issues, stress, and substance use issues. Chad is trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT (TFCBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems, Solution Focused, TBRI, and is an approved facilitator with Prepare/Enrich (premarital/ marriage counseling).
Chad utilizes a person-centered approach, CBT, DBT, EMDR, TFCBT, solution focused, and motivational interviewing in working with individuals. Chad also believes including the family system into treatment (parents, caregivers, significant others) when available. Chad also believes in the importance of including spirituality into treatment, when desired by the client.
God has given me the responsibility and privilege of coming alongside those who are hurting and assisting them on their journey towards healing and wholeness. If you would like to pursue a meeting I would be honored to participate in your journey towards healing.
Quinn Walkley, PMHNP-BC
Quinn Walkley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He provides a holistic approach incorporating medication management as well as a mind-body approach. He believes that by combining mental, physical, faith, and spiritual well being each patient can achieve their full potential. Mental health is often an overlooked piece of people's health and Quinn is passionate about empowering people so that they can live their best life..
Quinn received his Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and his Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. He also holds a Bachelors in Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati. He served as an emergency medicine, cardiac catheterization laboratory, and endoscopy nurse before obtaining his masters degree. He and his wife live in The Woodlands with their two dogs.
Our support team
Becky Watkins
As our full-time administrative professional, Becky ensures our practice runs smoothly and that our guests are well-served.
Judy McHam
Bonnie Kelley
Dee Gelsomini
Zoe Rutland
Laurie Giovingo
Tracy Young
Our Team
Peter A. Johnson, M.D.
Dr. Johnson is a board-certified, adult behavioral medicine specialist who inspires and empowers motivated individuals to achieve life transformation. His passion is helping established and emerging leaders achieve their highest potential and maximize their impact on those around them.
Dr. Johnson graduated magna cum laude from Bowdoin College and was awarded departmental honors in neuroscience. He received his M.D. from Baylor College of Medicine, where he then completed his residency training. He served as chief resident at The Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and at The Menninger Clinic. He and his wife have two children. christian counseling
Kathryn T. Rutland, M.D., MPH
Dr. Rutland uses an integrative approach to the treatment of addiction and aims to offer her clients excellence in care for chemical dependency and related problems. She is a fierce advocate for clients with dependency problems and is dedicated to helping clients and families find hope and healing, meeting people wherever they are in the process of change.
Understanding that addictive disorders have many causes, Dr. Rutland will explore the elements leading up to your symptoms and help you find a way forward. She creates a safe, reliable, and nurturing environment through which healing can occur.
During your consultation, you can explore the possible bio-psycho-social contributions to your symptoms and establish a comprehensive treatment plan that is specialized to your needs. Your visit may include psychiatric medications and/or psychotherapy, discussions regarding matters of lifestyle such as stress management & mindfulness, harm-reduction, relapse prevention, or 12- step support. Dr. Rutland may collaborate with trusted practitioners in complementary disciplines when necessary.
Dr. Rutland is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine, completed medical school at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and residency at the University of Louisville. She also has a master's degree in public health from the University of Kentucky, and a BS in Sociology where she graduated magna cum laude. She completed her training in addiction medicine in Houston, Texas under some of the best-known psychiatrists and addictionologists in the state.
Hilary Butella, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
Hilary Butella is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a secondary certification in family practice. Hilary provides individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, emotional health and spirituality. She strives to promote health and wellness in a compassionate, empathetic setting. Hilary is passionate about her faith and is inspired to help her patients grow stronger in theirs.
Hilary received her Post-Master's Certification in the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at Vanderbilt University where she graduated with honors and is currently completing a doctoral program. She also holds a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Houston where she served as a member of nursing faculty for 2 years. Hilary received Bachelor of Science degrees from Texas A&M University and Texas Woman's University. Hilary and her husband live in the Klein area with their two daughters. Christian counseling
J. Michael Smith, DHSc, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry
J. Michael Smith is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry. He believes that God is the ultimate healer, and that integrating faith and psychiatric medicine provides hope and support to people in need, utilizing best evidence-based practices. He believes in educating patients regarding lifestyle choices to promote mental, emotional, and spiritual health, and utilizes best practices to treat the spectrum of psychiatric conditions, with compassion and a genuine love for his patients.
Dr. Smith obtained his PA training at the University of Texas Medical Branch and a Master's of PA Studies from the University of Nebraska. He completed his Doctor of Health Science at NOVA-Southeastern University. He has been a psychiatric PA with 35 years psychiatric clinical experience in private practice, the U.S. Navy and the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. He retired from the Navy at the rank of Captain, Medical Service Corps and is an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran.
He worked for 25 years at the VA in Mental Health, with a special interest and experience in sleep disorders, PTSD, neuromodulation, and academic psychiatry. He teaches as clinical faculty for Baylor College of Medicine, UTMB, and Hardin-Simmons University, and has lectured at state and national conferences. Dr. Smith created and served as Program Director for the VA/Baylor PA Psychiatry Residency for five years, where he has trained over a dozen PAs in the specialty of psychiatry. He and his wife have three adult children and live in Sugar Land. Christian counseling
Tammy E. Nix, MA, LPC, LCDC
Tammy Nix is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor who has worked in her field for over 8 years. She has a wide range of experience working with kids to adults in all transitions of life. She has extensive clinical experience in mental health hospitals, addiction treatment facilities, nonprofit organizations and outpatient practices. Tammy's diverse background allows her to help address many topics such as stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, trauma, mood disorders, mental health issues and marriage and family counseling. She has a humanistic style that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and faith based principles to help people achieve their healthiest life possible. She has lived in the Houston area most of her life. She has been married for 17 years, has 5 children and her family has cared for many children in foster care.
Tammy earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Texas at Arlington. She then went on to get her Master of Arts in Counseling from Houston Graduate School of Theology. She has additionally been trained in addiction, trauma focused care and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life is not always easy. If you are struggling and looking for support, why don't you take that first step and give her a call. Through a relationship based on trust and respect, in counseling, you can walk through life's journey together and make positive changes in your life! Tammy understands life is a journey and it does not have to be done alone. Her greatest joy in life is helping others reach their full potential. She is here to support you in achieving the goals you have for your life.
Christopher M. Crawford, LSCW-S, LCDC
Christopher M. Crawford, LSCW-S, LCDC, has over 20 years therapeutic experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults with mental health and substance abuse disorders. Chris, a native Houstonian, returned home, after living in New Orleans and completing his master's in social work from Tulane University with a focus on individual and couple therapies.
Upon his return to Houston in 2011, Chris began working with adolescents in a substance abuse disorder outpatient program. Chris' passion for clients with substance abuse disorders lead him to develop a relapse and recovery program and expand services in an inpatient professionals/executives program, which included developing treatment assignments and detailed discharge plans. Chris' therapeutic style focuses on Humanistic, Existential, and Gestalt modalities. Chris embraces the emotional responses in relationships, as well as the “here and now” approach. Chris has researched, developed, and implemented interventions related to the relapse and attachment theory approach. Chris, a strong proponent of 12-Step Recovery Programs, has worked extensively with employee assistance professionals, the Texas Physician Health Program, the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses, and The Professional Recovery Network.
Chris resides in Spring, Texas, with his wife, two boys, and two wonderful cats. Chris is an avid sports fan, who is happiest when coaching his boys in baseball.
Emily M. Lash, M.A., NCC, LPC-Intern
Emily M. Lash, MA, NCC, LPC-I strives to embolden individuals to meet life's challenges with insight, courage, and hope through a constructive therapeutic relationship. She is licensed to practice professional counseling in the state of Texas and receives supervision from Sonya Heckler-Cheyne, Ph.D. Emily earned her master's degree in counseling from Northwestern University and her bachelor's degree from Baylor University.
Her clinical experience includes working with a diverse clientele of adolescents and adult individuals, couples, and groups in the Charlotte and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas. She integrates psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and logotherapy to help individuals gain self-understanding, implement helpful thought and behavior patterns, and find opportunities for healing and growth. Her core counseling values are rooted in Biblical teachings.
She and her husband are thrilled to return to the Houston area where they are surrounded by family, friends, and a supportive church community. Emily enjoys leading group fitness classes and spending time in the beautiful mountains of Southwestern Colorado. Christian counseling
Michael P. Groves, MA, NCC, LPC
Michael Groves is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Michael received a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sam Houston State University, a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary, and a bachelors from Auburn University. He spent more than 20 years in pastoral ministry in Texas counseling individuals, couples, and families facing many diverse life challenges. He then spent 11 years in the construction industry in Alaska managing his father's company and performed sales and management for another large construction company. Recently he served as counselor intern for the Good Shepherd Mission in Huntsville working with the homeless and transient dealing with addictions, transition from prison life, and numerous disorders and other life difficulties.
Michael's goal is to empower individuals, couples, and families to deal with tough and debilitating problems and empower them to reach their personal, relational, educational, and professional goals in life. He believes this is best accomplished in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental, and encouraging relationship between counselor and client. Michael's approach is both positive and challenging as he enters the world of the client to journey together probing underlying complications and discovering life changing solutions. Michael's focus is marriage and family issues, dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, and life transitions. He strives to aid individuals, couples, and families by diminishing hurt and pain, developing strategies to cope with life's trials, and increasing a sense of joy, purpose, and meaning in life. Michael is the father of three grown children and four wonderful grandchildren.
Kathryn Wainscott, MA, MCMHC
Kathryn Wainscott, M.A., LPC-Associate's primary clinical interests lie in helping to develop the coping skills of children, adolescents, and adults during major transitional periods in their lives, such as, college and career counseling, pre- and post-marital counseling, infidelity recovery, and pre/postpartum depression, OCD, and psychosis counseling. Additionally, she has experience with mental health disorders varying from ADHD/ADD, the autism spectrum in children, personality disorders, bipolar 1 & 2, depression, and anxiety. Kathryn earned both her bachelor's degree in medical and health studies and her master's degree in clinical and mental health counseling from The University of Oklahoma. (Boomer Sooner!)
Her warm and open demeanor naturally cultivates immediate personal connection with others. She has the genuine gift of empathizing with clients, allowing them to express and explore some of their most intimate and profound life experiences. Her holistic approach to intake and treatment differentiates her from a mere psychological approach to diagnosis, assessment, and evaluation. She believes biological, social, socioeconomic, and other non-cognitive factors are an essential part of diagnosis and treatment planning while striving to achieve optimal results for a client. She is a stern advocate for a multidisciplinary team approach to evaluation and treatment; and regularly consult with her fellow mental health professionals, as well as teachers, doctors, and members of her clients' emotional infrastructure to provide the highest possible level of care. Kathryn was baptized, confirmed, married in, and is a member of The Woodlands United Methodist Church, and offers Christian counseling services for those who wish to integrate their faith into the therapeutic process, but is knowledgeable and open to offering counseling services to all cultures, religions, and spiritualities.
Kathryn is a native of The Woodlands, Texas, graduated from The Woodlands College Park High School in 2013, and is thrilled in returning to Greater Houston area, with her husband, where they are surrounded by their friends and family. Kathryn is an avid Sooners fan, enjoys sipping a good cup of coffee on a cold morning, and is happiest spending time at her family's lake house.
Kathryn is currently under the supervision of Christie Farris, M.A., LMFT-S, LPC-S.
Nicole Garrett, MA, LPC-Associate
Nicole Garrett, M.A., LPC-Associate's hope is to empower her clients to be all that God intends for them to be. She sees the path to healing and wholeness as a journey and not a destination. Her approach to counseling is a collaborative process between the client and the counselor. Nicole works primarily from a person-centered approach utilizing other models and techniques as they are helpful. She seeks to provide a safe place and a climate of understanding and acceptance for her clients to be able to courageously work through life's difficulties. Nicole considers it a privilege to come alongside her clients as they seek healing and growth.
Through her work of over ten years leading groups for women struggling after an abortion Nicole first felt called to pursue a career in counseling. She earned her Master of Arts in Biblical counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. Her background includes working with teens in a residential treatment center and also working in a church counseling center. She especially has a heart for working with teens and women who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse. Her training includes trauma-informed care, attachment-based therapy, sand tray therapy, internal family systems, and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). Additionally, she is a certified RelateStrong facilitator.
She is married and has two kids. She loves nature and enjoys spending time outdoors. In her free time she likes to exercise-walk, lift weights, take group classes and do yoga. She loves the energizing effect that exercise has on her.
Nicole is currently under the supervision of Sara Mischler, MA, LPC-S
Chad Anderson, MA, LPC-S
Chad Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. Chad received a Masters of Art in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has worked with children and teens struggling with behavioral and mental health challenges in a non-profit setting for 18 years and also had experience working as a teacher, youth minister, and coach. Chad also has experience working with adults and married couples while contracting with a private practice facility.
Chad's counseling experience includes working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD,
oppositional behaviors, anger, premarital/marriage issues, relationship issues, life transitions,
obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar, attachment issues, stress, and substance use issues. Chad is trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT (TFCBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems, Solution Focused, TBRI, and is an approved facilitator with Prepare/Enrich (premarital/ marriage counseling).
Chad utilizes a person-centered approach, CBT, DBT, EMDR, TFCBT, solution focused, and motivational interviewing in working with individuals. Chad also believes including the family system into treatment (parents, caregivers, significant others) when available. Chad also believes in the importance of including spirituality into treatment, when desired by the client.
God has given me the responsibility and privilege of coming alongside those who are hurting and assisting them on their journey towards healing and wholeness. If you would like to pursue a meeting I would be honored to participate in your journey towards healing.
Quinn Walkley, PMHNP-BC
Quinn Walkley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He provides a holistic approach incorporating medication management as well as a mind-body approach. He believes that by combining mental, physical, faith, and spiritual well being each patient can achieve their full potential. Mental health is often an overlooked piece of people's health and Quinn is passionate about empowering people so that they can live their best life..
Quinn received his Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and his Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. He also holds a Bachelors in Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati. He served as an emergency medicine, cardiac catheterization laboratory, and endoscopy nurse before obtaining his masters degree. He and his wife live in The Woodlands with their two dogs.
Our support team
Becky Watkins
As our full-time administrative professional, Becky ensures our practice runs smoothly and that our guests are well-served.
Judy McHam
Bonnie Kelley
Dee Gelsomini
Zoe Rutland
Laurie Giovingo
Tracy Young
At LifeSpring Behavioral Health, we provide exceptional, individualized behavioral healthcare from a Biblical perspective with honesty and integrity. We believe true life transformation requires an integrated approach addressing the whole person, including the mind, body, and spirit. Evaluating factors from genetics, personality, relationships, and lifestyle enables a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs. In response to COVID-19, Telehealth is available.
Our Team
Peter A. Johnson, M.D.
Dr. Johnson is a board-certified, adult behavioral medicine specialist who inspires and empowers motivated individuals to achieve life transformation. His passion is helping established and emerging leaders achieve their highest potential and maximize their impact on those around them.
Dr. Johnson graduated magna cum laude from Bowdoin College and was awarded departmental honors in neuroscience. He received his M.D. from Baylor College of Medicine, where he then completed his residency training. He served as chief resident at The Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and at The Menninger Clinic. He and his wife have two children. christian counseling
Kathryn T. Rutland, M.D., MPH
Dr. Rutland uses an integrative approach to the treatment of addiction and aims to offer her clients excellence in care for chemical dependency and related problems. She is a fierce advocate for clients with dependency problems and is dedicated to helping clients and families find hope and healing, meeting people wherever they are in the process of change.
Understanding that addictive disorders have many causes, Dr. Rutland will explore the elements leading up to your symptoms and help you find a way forward. She creates a safe, reliable, and nurturing environment through which healing can occur.
During your consultation, you can explore the possible bio-psycho-social contributions to your symptoms and establish a comprehensive treatment plan that is specialized to your needs. Your visit may include psychiatric medications and/or psychotherapy, discussions regarding matters of lifestyle such as stress management & mindfulness, harm-reduction, relapse prevention, or 12- step support. Dr. Rutland may collaborate with trusted practitioners in complementary disciplines when necessary.
Dr. Rutland is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine, completed medical school at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and residency at the University of Louisville. She also has a master's degree in public health from the University of Kentucky, and a BS in Sociology where she graduated magna cum laude. She completed her training in addiction medicine in Houston, Texas under some of the best-known psychiatrists and addictionologists in the state.
Hilary Butella, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
Hilary Butella is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a secondary certification in family practice. Hilary provides individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, emotional health and spirituality. She strives to promote health and wellness in a compassionate, empathetic setting. Hilary is passionate about her faith and is inspired to help her patients grow stronger in theirs.
Hilary received her Post-Master's Certification in the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at Vanderbilt University where she graduated with honors and is currently completing a doctoral program. She also holds a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Houston where she served as a member of nursing faculty for 2 years. Hilary received Bachelor of Science degrees from Texas A&M University and Texas Woman's University. Hilary and her husband live in the Klein area with their two daughters. Christian counseling
J. Michael Smith, DHSc, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry
J. Michael Smith is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry. He believes that God is the ultimate healer, and that integrating faith and psychiatric medicine provides hope and support to people in need, utilizing best evidence-based practices. He believes in educating patients regarding lifestyle choices to promote mental, emotional, and spiritual health, and utilizes best practices to treat the spectrum of psychiatric conditions, with compassion and a genuine love for his patients.
Dr. Smith obtained his PA training at the University of Texas Medical Branch and a Master's of PA Studies from the University of Nebraska. He completed his Doctor of Health Science at NOVA-Southeastern University. He has been a psychiatric PA with 35 years psychiatric clinical experience in private practice, the U.S. Navy and the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. He retired from the Navy at the rank of Captain, Medical Service Corps and is an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran.
He worked for 25 years at the VA in Mental Health, with a special interest and experience in sleep disorders, PTSD, neuromodulation, and academic psychiatry. He teaches as clinical faculty for Baylor College of Medicine, UTMB, and Hardin-Simmons University, and has lectured at state and national conferences. Dr. Smith created and served as Program Director for the VA/Baylor PA Psychiatry Residency for five years, where he has trained over a dozen PAs in the specialty of psychiatry. He and his wife have three adult children and live in Sugar Land. Christian counseling
Tammy E. Nix, MA, LPC, LCDC
Tammy Nix is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor who has worked in her field for over 8 years. She has a wide range of experience working with kids to adults in all transitions of life. She has extensive clinical experience in mental health hospitals, addiction treatment facilities, nonprofit organizations and outpatient practices. Tammy's diverse background allows her to help address many topics such as stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, trauma, mood disorders, mental health issues and marriage and family counseling. She has a humanistic style that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and faith based principles to help people achieve their healthiest life possible. She has lived in the Houston area most of her life. She has been married for 17 years, has 5 children and her family has cared for many children in foster care.
Tammy earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Texas at Arlington. She then went on to get her Master of Arts in Counseling from Houston Graduate School of Theology. She has additionally been trained in addiction, trauma focused care and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life is not always easy. If you are struggling and looking for support, why don't you take that first step and give her a call. Through a relationship based on trust and respect, in counseling, you can walk through life's journey together and make positive changes in your life! Tammy understands life is a journey and it does not have to be done alone. Her greatest joy in life is helping others reach their full potential. She is here to support you in achieving the goals you have for your life.
Christopher M. Crawford, LSCW-S, LCDC
Christopher M. Crawford, LSCW-S, LCDC, has over 20 years therapeutic experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults with mental health and substance abuse disorders. Chris, a native Houstonian, returned home, after living in New Orleans and completing his master's in social work from Tulane University with a focus on individual and couple therapies.
Upon his return to Houston in 2011, Chris began working with adolescents in a substance abuse disorder outpatient program. Chris' passion for clients with substance abuse disorders lead him to develop a relapse and recovery program and expand services in an inpatient professionals/executives program, which included developing treatment assignments and detailed discharge plans. Chris' therapeutic style focuses on Humanistic, Existential, and Gestalt modalities. Chris embraces the emotional responses in relationships, as well as the “here and now” approach. Chris has researched, developed, and implemented interventions related to the relapse and attachment theory approach. Chris, a strong proponent of 12-Step Recovery Programs, has worked extensively with employee assistance professionals, the Texas Physician Health Program, the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses, and The Professional Recovery Network.
Chris resides in Spring, Texas, with his wife, two boys, and two wonderful cats. Chris is an avid sports fan, who is happiest when coaching his boys in baseball.
Emily M. Lash, M.A., NCC, LPC-Intern
Emily M. Lash, MA, NCC, LPC-I strives to embolden individuals to meet life's challenges with insight, courage, and hope through a constructive therapeutic relationship. She is licensed to practice professional counseling in the state of Texas and receives supervision from Sonya Heckler-Cheyne, Ph.D. Emily earned her master's degree in counseling from Northwestern University and her bachelor's degree from Baylor University.
Her clinical experience includes working with a diverse clientele of adolescents and adult individuals, couples, and groups in the Charlotte and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas. She integrates psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and logotherapy to help individuals gain self-understanding, implement helpful thought and behavior patterns, and find opportunities for healing and growth. Her core counseling values are rooted in Biblical teachings.
She and her husband are thrilled to return to the Houston area where they are surrounded by family, friends, and a supportive church community. Emily enjoys leading group fitness classes and spending time in the beautiful mountains of Southwestern Colorado. Christian counseling
Michael P. Groves, MA, NCC, LPC
Michael Groves is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Michael received a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sam Houston State University, a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary, and a bachelors from Auburn University. He spent more than 20 years in pastoral ministry in Texas counseling individuals, couples, and families facing many diverse life challenges. He then spent 11 years in the construction industry in Alaska managing his father's company and performed sales and management for another large construction company. Recently he served as counselor intern for the Good Shepherd Mission in Huntsville working with the homeless and transient dealing with addictions, transition from prison life, and numerous disorders and other life difficulties.
Michael's goal is to empower individuals, couples, and families to deal with tough and debilitating problems and empower them to reach their personal, relational, educational, and professional goals in life. He believes this is best accomplished in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental, and encouraging relationship between counselor and client. Michael's approach is both positive and challenging as he enters the world of the client to journey together probing underlying complications and discovering life changing solutions. Michael's focus is marriage and family issues, dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, and life transitions. He strives to aid individuals, couples, and families by diminishing hurt and pain, developing strategies to cope with life's trials, and increasing a sense of joy, purpose, and meaning in life. Michael is the father of three grown children and four wonderful grandchildren.
Kathryn Wainscott, MA, MCMHC
Kathryn Wainscott, M.A., LPC-Associate's primary clinical interests lie in helping to develop the coping skills of children, adolescents, and adults during major transitional periods in their lives, such as, college and career counseling, pre- and post-marital counseling, infidelity recovery, and pre/postpartum depression, OCD, and psychosis counseling. Additionally, she has experience with mental health disorders varying from ADHD/ADD, the autism spectrum in children, personality disorders, bipolar 1 & 2, depression, and anxiety. Kathryn earned both her bachelor's degree in medical and health studies and her master's degree in clinical and mental health counseling from The University of Oklahoma. (Boomer Sooner!)
Her warm and open demeanor naturally cultivates immediate personal connection with others. She has the genuine gift of empathizing with clients, allowing them to express and explore some of their most intimate and profound life experiences. Her holistic approach to intake and treatment differentiates her from a mere psychological approach to diagnosis, assessment, and evaluation. She believes biological, social, socioeconomic, and other non-cognitive factors are an essential part of diagnosis and treatment planning while striving to achieve optimal results for a client. She is a stern advocate for a multidisciplinary team approach to evaluation and treatment; and regularly consult with her fellow mental health professionals, as well as teachers, doctors, and members of her clients' emotional infrastructure to provide the highest possible level of care. Kathryn was baptized, confirmed, married in, and is a member of The Woodlands United Methodist Church, and offers Christian counseling services for those who wish to integrate their faith into the therapeutic process, but is knowledgeable and open to offering counseling services to all cultures, religions, and spiritualities.
Kathryn is a native of The Woodlands, Texas, graduated from The Woodlands College Park High School in 2013, and is thrilled in returning to Greater Houston area, with her husband, where they are surrounded by their friends and family. Kathryn is an avid Sooners fan, enjoys sipping a good cup of coffee on a cold morning, and is happiest spending time at her family's lake house.
Kathryn is currently under the supervision of Christie Farris, M.A., LMFT-S, LPC-S.
Nicole Garrett, MA, LPC-Associate
Nicole Garrett, M.A., LPC-Associate's hope is to empower her clients to be all that God intends for them to be. She sees the path to healing and wholeness as a journey and not a destination. Her approach to counseling is a collaborative process between the client and the counselor. Nicole works primarily from a person-centered approach utilizing other models and techniques as they are helpful. She seeks to provide a safe place and a climate of understanding and acceptance for her clients to be able to courageously work through life's difficulties. Nicole considers it a privilege to come alongside her clients as they seek healing and growth.
Through her work of over ten years leading groups for women struggling after an abortion Nicole first felt called to pursue a career in counseling. She earned her Master of Arts in Biblical counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. Her background includes working with teens in a residential treatment center and also working in a church counseling center. She especially has a heart for working with teens and women who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse. Her training includes trauma-informed care, attachment-based therapy, sand tray therapy, internal family systems, and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). Additionally, she is a certified RelateStrong facilitator.
She is married and has two kids. She loves nature and enjoys spending time outdoors. In her free time she likes to exercise-walk, lift weights, take group classes and do yoga. She loves the energizing effect that exercise has on her.
Nicole is currently under the supervision of Sara Mischler, MA, LPC-S
Chad Anderson, MA, LPC-S
Chad Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. Chad received a Masters of Art in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has worked with children and teens struggling with behavioral and mental health challenges in a non-profit setting for 18 years and also had experience working as a teacher, youth minister, and coach. Chad also has experience working with adults and married couples while contracting with a private practice facility.
Chad's counseling experience includes working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD,
oppositional behaviors, anger, premarital/marriage issues, relationship issues, life transitions,
obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar, attachment issues, stress, and substance use issues. Chad is trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT (TFCBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems, Solution Focused, TBRI, and is an approved facilitator with Prepare/Enrich (premarital/ marriage counseling).
Chad utilizes a person-centered approach, CBT, DBT, EMDR, TFCBT, solution focused, and motivational interviewing in working with individuals. Chad also believes including the family system into treatment (parents, caregivers, significant others) when available. Chad also believes in the importance of including spirituality into treatment, when desired by the client.
God has given me the responsibility and privilege of coming alongside those who are hurting and assisting them on their journey towards healing and wholeness. If you would like to pursue a meeting I would be honored to participate in your journey towards healing.
Quinn Walkley, PMHNP-BC
Quinn Walkley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He provides a holistic approach incorporating medication management as well as a mind-body approach. He believes that by combining mental, physical, faith, and spiritual well being each patient can achieve their full potential. Mental health is often an overlooked piece of people's health and Quinn is passionate about empowering people so that they can live their best life..
Quinn received his Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and his Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. He also holds a Bachelors in Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati. He served as an emergency medicine, cardiac catheterization laboratory, and endoscopy nurse before obtaining his masters degree. He and his wife live in The Woodlands with their two dogs.
Our support team
Becky Watkins
As our full-time administrative professional, Becky ensures our practice runs smoothly and that our guests are well-served.
Judy McHam
Bonnie Kelley
Dee Gelsomini
Zoe Rutland
Laurie Giovingo
Tracy Young
Our Team
Peter A. Johnson, M.D.
Dr. Johnson is a board-certified, adult behavioral medicine specialist who inspires and empowers motivated individuals to achieve life transformation. His passion is helping established and emerging leaders achieve their highest potential and maximize their impact on those around them.
Dr. Johnson graduated magna cum laude from Bowdoin College and was awarded departmental honors in neuroscience. He received his M.D. from Baylor College of Medicine, where he then completed his residency training. He served as chief resident at The Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center and at The Menninger Clinic. He and his wife have two children. christian counseling
Kathryn T. Rutland, M.D., MPH
Dr. Rutland uses an integrative approach to the treatment of addiction and aims to offer her clients excellence in care for chemical dependency and related problems. She is a fierce advocate for clients with dependency problems and is dedicated to helping clients and families find hope and healing, meeting people wherever they are in the process of change.
Understanding that addictive disorders have many causes, Dr. Rutland will explore the elements leading up to your symptoms and help you find a way forward. She creates a safe, reliable, and nurturing environment through which healing can occur.
During your consultation, you can explore the possible bio-psycho-social contributions to your symptoms and establish a comprehensive treatment plan that is specialized to your needs. Your visit may include psychiatric medications and/or psychotherapy, discussions regarding matters of lifestyle such as stress management & mindfulness, harm-reduction, relapse prevention, or 12- step support. Dr. Rutland may collaborate with trusted practitioners in complementary disciplines when necessary.
Dr. Rutland is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine, completed medical school at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and residency at the University of Louisville. She also has a master's degree in public health from the University of Kentucky, and a BS in Sociology where she graduated magna cum laude. She completed her training in addiction medicine in Houston, Texas under some of the best-known psychiatrists and addictionologists in the state.
Hilary Butella, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
Hilary Butella is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a secondary certification in family practice. Hilary provides individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, emotional health and spirituality. She strives to promote health and wellness in a compassionate, empathetic setting. Hilary is passionate about her faith and is inspired to help her patients grow stronger in theirs.
Hilary received her Post-Master's Certification in the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at Vanderbilt University where she graduated with honors and is currently completing a doctoral program. She also holds a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Houston where she served as a member of nursing faculty for 2 years. Hilary received Bachelor of Science degrees from Texas A&M University and Texas Woman's University. Hilary and her husband live in the Klein area with their two daughters. Christian counseling
J. Michael Smith, DHSc, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry
J. Michael Smith is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry. He believes that God is the ultimate healer, and that integrating faith and psychiatric medicine provides hope and support to people in need, utilizing best evidence-based practices. He believes in educating patients regarding lifestyle choices to promote mental, emotional, and spiritual health, and utilizes best practices to treat the spectrum of psychiatric conditions, with compassion and a genuine love for his patients.
Dr. Smith obtained his PA training at the University of Texas Medical Branch and a Master's of PA Studies from the University of Nebraska. He completed his Doctor of Health Science at NOVA-Southeastern University. He has been a psychiatric PA with 35 years psychiatric clinical experience in private practice, the U.S. Navy and the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. He retired from the Navy at the rank of Captain, Medical Service Corps and is an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran.
He worked for 25 years at the VA in Mental Health, with a special interest and experience in sleep disorders, PTSD, neuromodulation, and academic psychiatry. He teaches as clinical faculty for Baylor College of Medicine, UTMB, and Hardin-Simmons University, and has lectured at state and national conferences. Dr. Smith created and served as Program Director for the VA/Baylor PA Psychiatry Residency for five years, where he has trained over a dozen PAs in the specialty of psychiatry. He and his wife have three adult children and live in Sugar Land. Christian counseling
Tammy E. Nix, MA, LPC, LCDC
Tammy Nix is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor who has worked in her field for over 8 years. She has a wide range of experience working with kids to adults in all transitions of life. She has extensive clinical experience in mental health hospitals, addiction treatment facilities, nonprofit organizations and outpatient practices. Tammy's diverse background allows her to help address many topics such as stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, trauma, mood disorders, mental health issues and marriage and family counseling. She has a humanistic style that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and faith based principles to help people achieve their healthiest life possible. She has lived in the Houston area most of her life. She has been married for 17 years, has 5 children and her family has cared for many children in foster care.
Tammy earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Texas at Arlington. She then went on to get her Master of Arts in Counseling from Houston Graduate School of Theology. She has additionally been trained in addiction, trauma focused care and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life is not always easy. If you are struggling and looking for support, why don't you take that first step and give her a call. Through a relationship based on trust and respect, in counseling, you can walk through life's journey together and make positive changes in your life! Tammy understands life is a journey and it does not have to be done alone. Her greatest joy in life is helping others reach their full potential. She is here to support you in achieving the goals you have for your life.
Christopher M. Crawford, LSCW-S, LCDC
Christopher M. Crawford, LSCW-S, LCDC, has over 20 years therapeutic experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults with mental health and substance abuse disorders. Chris, a native Houstonian, returned home, after living in New Orleans and completing his master's in social work from Tulane University with a focus on individual and couple therapies.
Upon his return to Houston in 2011, Chris began working with adolescents in a substance abuse disorder outpatient program. Chris' passion for clients with substance abuse disorders lead him to develop a relapse and recovery program and expand services in an inpatient professionals/executives program, which included developing treatment assignments and detailed discharge plans. Chris' therapeutic style focuses on Humanistic, Existential, and Gestalt modalities. Chris embraces the emotional responses in relationships, as well as the “here and now” approach. Chris has researched, developed, and implemented interventions related to the relapse and attachment theory approach. Chris, a strong proponent of 12-Step Recovery Programs, has worked extensively with employee assistance professionals, the Texas Physician Health Program, the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses, and The Professional Recovery Network.
Chris resides in Spring, Texas, with his wife, two boys, and two wonderful cats. Chris is an avid sports fan, who is happiest when coaching his boys in baseball.
Emily M. Lash, M.A., NCC, LPC-Intern
Emily M. Lash, MA, NCC, LPC-I strives to embolden individuals to meet life's challenges with insight, courage, and hope through a constructive therapeutic relationship. She is licensed to practice professional counseling in the state of Texas and receives supervision from Sonya Heckler-Cheyne, Ph.D. Emily earned her master's degree in counseling from Northwestern University and her bachelor's degree from Baylor University.
Her clinical experience includes working with a diverse clientele of adolescents and adult individuals, couples, and groups in the Charlotte and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas. She integrates psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and logotherapy to help individuals gain self-understanding, implement helpful thought and behavior patterns, and find opportunities for healing and growth. Her core counseling values are rooted in Biblical teachings.
She and her husband are thrilled to return to the Houston area where they are surrounded by family, friends, and a supportive church community. Emily enjoys leading group fitness classes and spending time in the beautiful mountains of Southwestern Colorado. Christian counseling
Michael P. Groves, MA, NCC, LPC
Michael Groves is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Michael received a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sam Houston State University, a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary, and a bachelors from Auburn University. He spent more than 20 years in pastoral ministry in Texas counseling individuals, couples, and families facing many diverse life challenges. He then spent 11 years in the construction industry in Alaska managing his father's company and performed sales and management for another large construction company. Recently he served as counselor intern for the Good Shepherd Mission in Huntsville working with the homeless and transient dealing with addictions, transition from prison life, and numerous disorders and other life difficulties.
Michael's goal is to empower individuals, couples, and families to deal with tough and debilitating problems and empower them to reach their personal, relational, educational, and professional goals in life. He believes this is best accomplished in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental, and encouraging relationship between counselor and client. Michael's approach is both positive and challenging as he enters the world of the client to journey together probing underlying complications and discovering life changing solutions. Michael's focus is marriage and family issues, dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, and life transitions. He strives to aid individuals, couples, and families by diminishing hurt and pain, developing strategies to cope with life's trials, and increasing a sense of joy, purpose, and meaning in life. Michael is the father of three grown children and four wonderful grandchildren.
Kathryn Wainscott, MA, MCMHC
Kathryn Wainscott, M.A., LPC-Associate's primary clinical interests lie in helping to develop the coping skills of children, adolescents, and adults during major transitional periods in their lives, such as, college and career counseling, pre- and post-marital counseling, infidelity recovery, and pre/postpartum depression, OCD, and psychosis counseling. Additionally, she has experience with mental health disorders varying from ADHD/ADD, the autism spectrum in children, personality disorders, bipolar 1 & 2, depression, and anxiety. Kathryn earned both her bachelor's degree in medical and health studies and her master's degree in clinical and mental health counseling from The University of Oklahoma. (Boomer Sooner!)
Her warm and open demeanor naturally cultivates immediate personal connection with others. She has the genuine gift of empathizing with clients, allowing them to express and explore some of their most intimate and profound life experiences. Her holistic approach to intake and treatment differentiates her from a mere psychological approach to diagnosis, assessment, and evaluation. She believes biological, social, socioeconomic, and other non-cognitive factors are an essential part of diagnosis and treatment planning while striving to achieve optimal results for a client. She is a stern advocate for a multidisciplinary team approach to evaluation and treatment; and regularly consult with her fellow mental health professionals, as well as teachers, doctors, and members of her clients' emotional infrastructure to provide the highest possible level of care. Kathryn was baptized, confirmed, married in, and is a member of The Woodlands United Methodist Church, and offers Christian counseling services for those who wish to integrate their faith into the therapeutic process, but is knowledgeable and open to offering counseling services to all cultures, religions, and spiritualities.
Kathryn is a native of The Woodlands, Texas, graduated from The Woodlands College Park High School in 2013, and is thrilled in returning to Greater Houston area, with her husband, where they are surrounded by their friends and family. Kathryn is an avid Sooners fan, enjoys sipping a good cup of coffee on a cold morning, and is happiest spending time at her family's lake house.
Kathryn is currently under the supervision of Christie Farris, M.A., LMFT-S, LPC-S.
Nicole Garrett, MA, LPC-Associate
Nicole Garrett, M.A., LPC-Associate's hope is to empower her clients to be all that God intends for them to be. She sees the path to healing and wholeness as a journey and not a destination. Her approach to counseling is a collaborative process between the client and the counselor. Nicole works primarily from a person-centered approach utilizing other models and techniques as they are helpful. She seeks to provide a safe place and a climate of understanding and acceptance for her clients to be able to courageously work through life's difficulties. Nicole considers it a privilege to come alongside her clients as they seek healing and growth.
Through her work of over ten years leading groups for women struggling after an abortion Nicole first felt called to pursue a career in counseling. She earned her Master of Arts in Biblical counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. Her background includes working with teens in a residential treatment center and also working in a church counseling center. She especially has a heart for working with teens and women who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse. Her training includes trauma-informed care, attachment-based therapy, sand tray therapy, internal family systems, and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). Additionally, she is a certified RelateStrong facilitator.
She is married and has two kids. She loves nature and enjoys spending time outdoors. In her free time she likes to exercise-walk, lift weights, take group classes and do yoga. She loves the energizing effect that exercise has on her.
Nicole is currently under the supervision of Sara Mischler, MA, LPC-S
Chad Anderson, MA, LPC-S
Chad Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. Chad received a Masters of Art in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has worked with children and teens struggling with behavioral and mental health challenges in a non-profit setting for 18 years and also had experience working as a teacher, youth minister, and coach. Chad also has experience working with adults and married couples while contracting with a private practice facility.
Chad's counseling experience includes working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD,
oppositional behaviors, anger, premarital/marriage issues, relationship issues, life transitions,
obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar, attachment issues, stress, and substance use issues. Chad is trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT (TFCBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems, Solution Focused, TBRI, and is an approved facilitator with Prepare/Enrich (premarital/ marriage counseling).
Chad utilizes a person-centered approach, CBT, DBT, EMDR, TFCBT, solution focused, and motivational interviewing in working with individuals. Chad also believes including the family system into treatment (parents, caregivers, significant others) when available. Chad also believes in the importance of including spirituality into treatment, when desired by the client.
God has given me the responsibility and privilege of coming alongside those who are hurting and assisting them on their journey towards healing and wholeness. If you would like to pursue a meeting I would be honored to participate in your journey towards healing.
Quinn Walkley, PMHNP-BC
Quinn Walkley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He provides a holistic approach incorporating medication management as well as a mind-body approach. He believes that by combining mental, physical, faith, and spiritual well being each patient can achieve their full potential. Mental health is often an overlooked piece of people's health and Quinn is passionate about empowering people so that they can live their best life..
Quinn received his Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and his Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. He also holds a Bachelors in Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati. He served as an emergency medicine, cardiac catheterization laboratory, and endoscopy nurse before obtaining his masters degree. He and his wife live in The Woodlands with their two dogs.
Our support team
Becky Watkins
As our full-time administrative professional, Becky ensures our practice runs smoothly and that our guests are well-served.
Judy McHam
Bonnie Kelley
Dee Gelsomini
Zoe Rutland
Laurie Giovingo
Tracy Young
Recommendations For LifeSpring Behavioral Health
There are currently no reviews. Be the first to Submit A Review
More From Us
