Welcome to the Kennesaw State University Wellbeing and Counseling Services staff directory
page. Here, you can get to know the dedicated and compassionate professionals who
support your mental and emotional well-being. Our team is committed to providing you
with the resources and assistance you need to thrive during your time at KSU. Whether
you're seeking counseling, therapy, or simply want to connect with someone who can
help, our staff members are here to guide you on your journey towards improved mental
health and overall wellbeing.
Explore the profiles of our experienced team to find the right fit for your needs
and embark on a path to wellness and personal growth.
Administrative Staff
Name
Position
Melanie CovertExecutive Director, Counseling and Psychological Services
Executive Director, Counseling and Psychological Services
Education: Phd: Georgia State University, Sociology, with a Race, Urban Studies and Mental Health emphasis M.S.: Brenau University Clinical Counseling Psychology with specialization in Applied Psychological Teaching B.S.: Kennesaw State University Psychology with minor in History
Clinical Experience I have been in the mental health field working first as an LAPC and then LPC since 2011. I became a clinical supervisor in 2017 and since that time have supervised clinicians in a wide variety of clinical settings. In addition to my work as a university faculty member since 2010, I have served in the roles of assistant clinic director and director of internships as well as the founder and director of a private group counseling center.
I am passionate about making mental health care accessible both on campus and within communities. My clinical experiences include a wide range of populations specializing specifically in trauma, life transitions and ADHD. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy as well as other neuro based interventions to support clients and supervisees in their training and work.
Fun Facts In addition to my clinic work I love to be creative in my free time. I am practiced song-writer and have gotten to see my songs performed or performed by me on many different stages. I play several instruments including the Banjo. I am a published author and poet. And have had the chance to do a little stand-up comedy as well. And I am a huge fan of the theatre. You'll catch me at a play or musical at least once a month.
Emma HickeyAssociate Director, Case Management and Operations
Associate Director, Case Management and Operations
MSW in Master Social Work from Kennesaw State University Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Georgia Intensively trained in DBT through PsychWire Level 2 of Life Span Integration Training (LI)
Approach to Therapy I utilize a dialectical behavioral therapy approach to the work I do with clients. This means I work to help clients understand how their behaviors influence mood and daily living. My clients can expect that I provide a space for honesty, support, and acceptance when they enter sessions with me. Additionally, I strive to meet clients where they are at. I operate from a client centered approach which emphasizes client’s individual strengths, which empowers clients to decide what is best for them. I specialize in working with personality disorders, self-harm, suicidality, eating disorders, trauma, and challenges with interpersonal relationships.
Fun Facts Emma loves to read, go to concerts, travel, and spend time with friends and family. She also interned in her graduate program at KSU CAPS!
Opal OjedaInterim Associate Director, Clinical Services and Training
Interim Associate Director, Clinical Services and Training
oojeda@kennesaw.edu (470) 578-6600 Marietta Campus, 860 Joe Mack Wilson Student Center, Room 170O
Education Ph.D. Counseling Psychology, University of Minnesota M.A. Community Counseling, Gonzaga University Approach to therapy I use a Psychodynamic approach that looks at how early experiences form a person’s worldview and current patterns and those patterns may need to change to better fit their current life. My work is also influenced by Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral approaches. This looks like a focus on the relationship between me and clients to create a warm and accepting environment as well as providing them with concrete skills to help facilitate change.
Fun Fact I am an avid lover of whales and puzzles. I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, crafts, and listening to podcasts.
Nicole PhillipsAssociate Director, Outreach and Engagement
Education EdD: University of Georgia Student Affairs Leadership MS: Indiana University at Bloomington College Student Personnel Administration BA: University of California at Irvine Social Science
Approach to Mental Health Crisis Prevention and Psychoeducation Dr. Phillips’ approach, informed by over 20 years of student affairs practice, is intentional, evidence‑informed, developmentally appropriate, and empowering, emphasizing the development of knowledge, skills, and self‑efficacy rather than awareness alone. Effective mental health outreach must be preventive, strengths‑based, skill‑focused, and developmentally informed, normalizing common student experiences while building coping capacity. Grounded in my perspective that the college campus functions as a learning “village,” psychoeducation is most impactful when embedded within a culture of shared responsibility, collaboration, and care. Through creative, strategic outreach and engagement, she values promoting wellbeing, self‑care, and compassion, and prioritizes providing students with meaningful opportunities to sustain positive mental health and long‑term success. Dr. Phillips is also a certified trainer for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) and Question. Persuade. Refer. (QPR).
Fun Facts Nicole enjoys engaging in various artistic endeavors, attending festivals, road trips, and volunteering to support various community endeavors. She has also been commissioned to create and perform customized poems for weddings, birthdays, and special occasions.
Wayne StrotherAssociate Director, Counseling and Psychological Services
Associate Director, Counseling and Psychological Services
wstrothe@kennesaw.edu (470) 578-6600 Marietta Campus, 860 Joe Mack Wilson Student Center, Room 170H
Joined CAPS:2017
Education Doctor of Public Administration, Valdosta State University M.A. Marriage and Family Counseling, University of Alabama at Birmingham; Master of Business Administration, University of Alabama at Birmingham B.S. Industrial Management, Auburn University
Education: MA: University of North Georgia, Clinical Mental Health Counseling with concentration in College Populations and Student Affairs BS: Georgia College and State University
Approach to Therapy: My approach to therapy is relational. I whole-heartedly believe that the therapeutic relationship itself can be transformational in client’s lives. Most of my approach comes from Person Centered, Internal Family Systems, and Existential therapy perspectives. My goal with clients is to create and support a relationship that is focused on empowering and supportive to the client while also challenging maladaptive patterns in client’s lives.
Fun Facts: I love reality TV (anything on Bravo, but Survivor is my all-time favorite), running, cooking and spending time with my friends and family!
Office Location: Kennesaw Campus
Karima DukesStaff Therapist, Student Health Services
Education: Master of Social Work, University of Georgia, B.A. Sociology, Augusta University
Approach to Therapy: I believe therapy should be a warm, supportive, and judgment-free space where clients feel safe to be their authentic selves and express their thoughts and emotions openly. My approach is primarily client-centered, meeting each client where they are while recognizing that every individual’s experiences, strengths, and needs are unique. I prioritize building a genuine therapeutic relationship rooted in trust, respect, empathy, and acceptance. I utilize evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and person-centered techniques to help clients develop self-awareness, build healthy coping skills, navigate challenges, and work toward meaningful change. My experience working in a psychiatric facility has provided me with valuable experience supporting individuals with a wide range of mental health diagnoses and varying levels of acuity, strengthening my ability to approach each client with compassion, flexibility, and understanding.
Fun Fact: I love doing artsy, creative things. I built my own couch from scratch. My first visit
to Disneyland was to the one in Paris, France. I sat in a live volcano in Cartagena,
Colombia. I went on the world's steepest zipline, located in St. Marteen.
Thalia EscobedoStudent Affairs Case Manager
Student Affairs Case Manager
tescobed@kennesaw.edu (470) 578-6600 Marietta Campus, 860 Joe Mack Wilson Student Center, Room 170F
Joined CAPS: 2024
Education: Master of Social Work, Asbury University; B.S. Psychology, Florida Gulf Coast University.
Approach to Therapy: I practice a client-centered approach which focuses on self-empowerment and compassion. I work with students navigating ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence, helping them better understand their strengths while developing strategies to manage academic, social, and emotional challenges. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and tailored to each student's unique experiences, with a focus on building self-awareness, confidence, and sustainable skills for success in college and beyond. I am fluent in Spanish and can provide mental health support and guidance for Spanish-speaking individuals.
Fun Facts: I ran the Atlanta Marathon in 2020- hardest thing I have ever done in my life! I love animals and have a gray cat (with orange cat energy) named Ziggy. There is a red dinosaur in my office named Leonard – he would love to meet you!
Office Location: Marietta Campus
Elisheva FunkStaff Therapist
Staff Therapist
efunk4@kennesaw.edu (470) 578-6600 Marietta Campus, 860 Joe Mack Wilson Student Center, Room 170I
Joined CAPS:2018
Education:Master of Social Work with Family Therapy certificate, Boston University; B.A. Psychology,
University of North Carolina
Approach to Therapy: I am a client-centered therapist, which means that my goal is to help people see their strengths and support them in achieving their goals. Students are often asking what is wrong with them, and I like to help them see the barriers in their way instead of what needs to be “fixed.” I believe that a strong working relationship is important to the therapy process. The way I approach building a working relationship is through a non-judgmental lens and trusting the student to know what is best for them. I am also well versed in Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Fun Facts: I love to read, especially historical fiction and magical realism. After reading “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo, I decided to bring my favorite books into my office to be surrounded by what brings me joy.
Education: M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Clark Atlanta University; B.S. Electronic
Media Communications-Journalism, Middle Tennessee State University
Licenses and Certifications: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Approach to Therapy: My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in helping clients navigate life’s transitions with clarity and confidence. I work from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy lenses, supporting clients in identifying patterns, challenging unhelpful thoughts, and building practical tools for change. Whether someone is adjusting to college life, navigating identity development, or other personal challenges, I strive to create a space that feels genuine, affirming, and centered on helping them move toward the life they want to build.
Fun Facts: Outside of work, Alondra enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. She loves shopping probably more than she should and firmly believes that good music, good perfume, and good food can improve almost any day. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, she is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She’s also a devoted dog mom and animal lover, so much so that her friends sometimes joke and call her Eliza Thornberry.
Education: Master of Social Work, Kennesaw State University; B.A. Music Theory, Kennesaw State
University
Approach to Therapy: I approach therapy from a holistic perspective and primarily integrate psychodynamic, schema-focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) approaches into my work. I believe many of the beliefs, values, and patterns we carry are shaped through our experiences, relationships, environments, and the stories we learn about ourselves over time. Those experiences can quietly shape how we navigate the world, almost like a pair of glasses influencing the way we see ourselves and others. My clinical experience includes community mental health, addiction treatment, medical social work, severe and persistent mental illness, and working alongside vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness, trauma, and substance use. I am especially passionate about identity formation, LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma, grief, and helping clients build lives that feel authentic, meaningful, and aligned with who they truly are. My goal is to create a therapeutic space that feels warm, affirming, collaborative, and genuinely human.
Fun Facts: I am especially fascinated by the collective experience of creating music with others — how people from entirely different backgrounds can come together and create something meaningful without ever speaking the same language. I also have a deep love for the French horn and do my best to make my music sound as cinematic, dramatic, and emotionally devastating as possible (preferably all at once). Outside of work, I love reading, roller coasters, weather, and all things Disney (especially Walt Disney World). I can also probably tell you more than you ever wanted to know about theme parks, meteorology, or ride evacuation procedures
Education: PhD: Auburn University Counselor Education and Supervision, MEd: Auburn University Clinical Mental Health Counseling, BS: Psychology
Approach to Therapy: My approach to therapy emphasizes development of the therapeutic alliance and creating a space for my clients to feel safe and understood. I incorporate aspects of Humanistic Theory that prioritize the importance of subjective experience and self-determination alongside Cognitive approaches that help individuals develop skills to address specific challenges. I also utilize education about exercise, nutrition, and general health related topics to create a wholistic approach for wellbeing. My goal is to help empower clients to reach their full potential and achieve their aspirations in life.
Fun Facts: I am an avid outdoorsman and enjoy a wide variety of activities that often have me
spending time in the woods. Hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting are generally how
I choose to spend my free time when I am not attending functions for my children.
I am also a United States Marine Corps veteran and engage in several advocacy related
activities that seek to improve the lives of military members and their families.
I also enjoy cooking, playing video games, reading, and archery as well.
Education: BS Psychology 2020 University of Illinois Urbana-Campaign, MSMS Clinical Psychology 2024 Ponce Health and Sciences University, PsyD Clinical Psychology 2025 Ponce Health and Sciences University
Approach to therapy: My approach to therapy is grounded in a humanistic foundation, emphasizing authenticity, empathy, collaboration, and the belief that each person has the capacity for growth and healing. I strive to create a warm, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel genuinely seen and understood. Through an interpersonal lens, I explore how relationships, attachment patterns, communication styles, and lived experiences shape emotional wellbeing and sense of self. I view the therapeutic relationship itself as a meaningful vehicle for insight, healing, and change. As a clinical psychologist, I work from a generalist perspective while specializing in trauma, eating disorders, and LGBTQ+ concerns. My work is informed by cultural humility, recognizing that clients are experts of their own lived experiences. I strive to approach each therapeutic relationship with openness, curiosity, and ongoing self-reflection while honoring the ways culture, identity, community, and systems of oppression influence mental health and healing.
Fun Fact: I have two cats and a dog named Sasuke, Salem, and Koda. They were all emergency rescues who love to play outside and snuggle!
Office Location: Kennesaw Campus
Jace MitchamStaff Therapist, Student Health Services
Staff Therapist, Student Health Services
jmitcha4@kennesaw.edu (470) 578-6600 Marietta Campus, 860 Joe Mack Wilson Student Center, Room 170J
Joined CAPS: 2025
Education: M.S. Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling, Georgia State University; B.S. Psychology,
Minor in Substance Addiction Education, Troy University
My Approach: My approach to counseling combines person-centered and psychodynamic styles, creating emphasis around the client and the therapeutic relationship while taking into consideration past experiences and behavioral patterns. My goal as a therapist is to create a comfortable, affirming environment in which you feel empowered to explore and express all aspects of your identity while also determining the ares of your life in need of change.
Fun Fact: Jace loves trying new foods, reading, and going to the movies on a weekly basis. He is the proud father of a French Bulldog named Paul Baker and frequently encourages others to enjoy the “cinematic masterpiece” that is Shrek 2.
Office Location: Marietta Campus, Student Health Services
Education:Ph.D. Clinical Psychology, University of Tennessee; Internship-Psychology: Duke University
Medical Center, M.S. Psychology, Temple University; B.S. Psychology, Brooklyn College
Therapeutic Style: If academic, personal or life issues leave you feeling distressed, I can help. I am a psychologist who emphasizes a generalist approach with a multicultural focus utilizing an interpersonal and interactive supportive method and style that encourages personal growth, personal responsibility and cognitive as well as emotional self-awareness My goal is to enable individuals to feel free of exhausting anxiety and depression and, instead, to feel competent, intentional, and self-directive in their approach to life issues. I provide an individualized approach to help the people I work with feel empowered and equipped to meet life’s challenges.
Peresonal Interests: Family, travel and photography.
Office Location: Kennesaw Campus
Brittani SheldonStudent Affairs Case Manager - Clinical, Counseling and Psychological Services
Student Affairs Case Manager - Clinical, Counseling and Psychological Services
Education: MS: Capella University Clinical Mental Health Counseling, BA: Georgia State University Sociology
Approach to Therapy: Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, but navigating life’s challenges does not have to be done alone. I believe healing begins in a space where someone can feel heard, understood, and accepted without judgment. My goal is to create that space while helping others build practical skills to navigate difficult emotions, strengthen relationships, and move toward the life they want. My goal is to help individuals feel safe, understood, and empowered as they move toward healing and resilience.
Whether they are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for change, I'm here to help. I provide a compassionate, collaborative space where we’ll work together to better understand their experiences, develop practical coping skills, and help them move toward the life they want.
Fun Facts: Brittani loves being a proud basketball mom and loves cheering her daughter on from the sidelines. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, traveling, exploring new places, and creating fun family memories. She especially enjoy swimming, visiting beaches and hiking, and finding new adventures.
LMFT, CSPO, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and Certified Scrum Product
Owner with Kennesaw State University Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS).
She earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and
brings extensive experience supporting individuals, couples, families, and communities
across university, healthcare, and community-based settings.
Afton is committed to creating compassionate, inclusive spaces where students feel
heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes. Her clinical interests
include anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, perfectionism, loneliness, trauma,
identity development, emotional regulation, and life transitions. Using a collaborative,
strengths-based approach, she helps students deepen self-awareness, develop practical
coping skills, improve their relationships, and move toward lives that feel more balanced
and authentic.
In addition to providing clinical services, Afton contributes to CAPS outreach, prevention,
and student engagement initiatives. She created the Virtual Wellness Academy, an innovative
online learning experience that gives KSU students flexible access to skill-building
resources focused on emotional regulation, mindfulness, resilience, compassion, and
belonging and connection. She also supports healthy relationship programming, mental
health education, and collaborative initiatives with departments across the university.
Her work reflects a strong commitment to making mental health resources accessible,
relevant, and responsive to the diverse needs of the KSU community.
Afton believes therapy is most effective when students are able to show up as their
full selves without fear of judgment. She views counseling as a partnership and works
to help students recognize their existing strengths while building new tools for navigating
challenges. Whether meeting with a student individually or engaging the broader campus
community, Afton is passionate about reducing stigma, fostering connection, and helping
every Owl thrive academically, emotionally, relationally, and personally throughout
their KSU journey and beyond graduation. She is honored to support students as they
grow, heal, connect, and discover new possibilities.
Doctoral Internship Staff
Kennesaw State University's Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) Doctoral Internship
in Health Services Psychology.
Name
Position
Chelse HallCounseling and Psychology Doctoral Intern
Education: PsyD: Mercer University, Clinical Psychology (Doctoral Candidate), MS: Mercer University, Clinical Health Psychology, MA: Stony Brook University, Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care, and Bioethics, BS: Clark Atlanta University, Psychology
Approach to Therapy: I believe therapy should be a space where clients can show up as their full selves and feel seen, understood, and supported without judgment. My approach is grounded primarily in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), all through a culturally responsive lens. I bring warmth, humor, and authenticity into the therapy room while helping clients better understand themselves, develop practical coping skills, and navigate life in ways that feel meaningful and authentic to them.
Fun Facts: I love trying new restaurants and finding any excuse for brunch with friends. In my free time, you can find me making candles, painting, doing my nails or tandem-watching TV series with friends!
Cameron WarrenCounseling and Psychology Doctoral Intern
Education: M.A Clinical Psychology 2024 Adler University, BA Psychology & Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies 2020 Emory University,
Approach to therapy: My approach to therapy is grounded in Adlerian and Decolonial theory, relationally focused, and aims toward psychological liberation. Every person is a holistic being influenced by the many stories and identities that mold them. Through genuine empathy, encouragement, and collaboration, I strive to help clients reshape and reclaim ownership of their own stories. Using an intersectional lens, I explore how identities, systems, social connections, and the client's lived experiences intersect to shape their mental health and wellness. As a clinical psychologist in training, I work from a generalist perspective while specializing in trauma and chronic stress, identity-based concerns, and multicultural backgrounds. My work is informed by cultural humility, recognizing that clients are experts of their own lived experiences.
Fun Fact: I was the captain of my high school wrestling team and won my first tournament with a sprained ankle.
Estefania Sostre-CalderónCounseling and Psychology Doctoral Intern
Education: B.A. Psychology, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus, Ph.D. Student in Clinical Psychology, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus
Approach to therapy: My clinical approach is grounded in humanistic psychology, starting from the core
premise that clients are true experts in their own lives. From this perspective, I
view therapy as a collaborative and horizontal process, where my role is not to direct,
but to facilitate a safe, empathetic, and judgment-free space. Driven by cultural
humility and a commitment to providing bilingual support in both English and Spanish,
I meet clients where they are, honoring their unique backgrounds and lived experiences.
Through unconditional positive regard and deep listening, I accompany clients in exploring
their inner world, promoting self-awareness, self-acceptance, and the unfolding of
their own latent potential to heal and grow.
Fun fact: I have a twin sister, and we still manage to confuse people to this day! Aside from that, I am also a big fan of Star Wars and anime.
Clinical Trainees
The Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) office of Kennesaw State University (KSU) offers training experiences for master and doctoral students in counseling, social work, and psychology.
Our CAPS Practicum Trainee Cohort for the 26/27 academic year (pictured left to right):
Jessi Oyler
Lauren Harville
Chandler Keown
Olevia Hooper
Jaimie Tarleton
Jody Mazur
Christopher Mino
Nicholas Alba
Counseling and Psychological Services is a function of the Division of Student Affairs.
