Life and Trauma Survivor Center
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    • Home
    • Parent-Child Assessment
    • Services
      • Therapy
      • Positive Parenting Time
      • Child & Teen Defiance
    • Locations
      • Indiana
      • Pennsylvania
    • Staff
      • Indiana Staff
      • Pennsylvania Staff
    • Resources
Life and Trauma Survivor Center
  • Home
  • Parent-Child Assessment
  • Services
    • Therapy
    • Positive Parenting Time
    • Child & Teen Defiance
  • Locations
    • Indiana
    • Pennsylvania
  • Staff
    • Indiana Staff
    • Pennsylvania Staff
  • Resources

Meet our staff: Indiana

Sherrie Shivok, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II

Sherrie Shivok, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II

Sherrie Shivok, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II

Sherrie Shivok

Helping my clients achieve a sense of wholeness through my support with healing and leading healthy lives brings fulfillment and makes the therapeutic relationship all the more rewarding. With over 25 years of experience, I hold certifications in trauma-focused therapy (LMHC), specializing in supporting children (ages 6 and up), adolescents, and adults. I work with clients facing a range of challenges including complex and single-incident trauma, PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), anger/defiance, and daily life stressors.    


Additionally, I specialize in working with first responders, veterans, and other professionals who face unique trauma-related challenges in order to promote career longevity and success. I believe transparency, trust, and the spirit of curiosity behind the “why” of thoughts and actions are the key components of a productive and beneficial patient-therapist relationship. I strive to create a safe environment where my clients feel comfortable being open, allowing us to build an authentic, trustworthy connection. 

Emily Fernandez, MSEd, LMHC

Sherrie Shivok, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II

Sherrie Shivok, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II

Emily Fernandez

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with an MSEd in Mental Health Counseling from Purdue University. I work with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse recovery, career transitions, life skills, parenting, and gender exploration. My approach draws on EMDR, CBT, DBT, psychoeducation, and creative expression when appropriate. I have completed certification training in sex therapy and sex education through the University of Michigan and perinatal mental health through Postpartum Support International.

 

I believe therapy works best as a collaborative process grounded in mutual respect. I bring warmth, curiosity, directness, and humor when appropriate. My goal isn’t to tell you who to be, but to help you understand yourself, challenge unhelpful patterns, and make choices that reflect your values.


I especially enjoy working with people who have felt misunderstood or pressured to fit someone else’s expectations. I am sex-positive, LGBTQ+-affirming, and neurodiversity-affirming, with a focus on sexuality, identity, and relationships. I welcome autistic and ADHD adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, people involved in kink/BDSM or consensual nonmonogamy, sex workers, and those exploring religious trauma or nontraditional spirituality.

Elizabeth Cowley, MS, LCSW

Sherrie Shivok, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II

Kelly Coulopoulos, MSW, LCSW

Change can be difficult. However, having a therapist on your side that is willing to challenge and push your growth makes the treatment all the more successful and rewarding.


I have been a social worker for the last decade. My experience includes working with youth in the juvenile justice system, and foster care. I completed my practicum at Jesse Brown Veteran's hospital and have been a supervisor/crisis management in a residential facility.  Along with a master’s degree in social work from Indiana University, I have completed training in trauma-focused CBT and DBT, EMDR, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and somatic psychotherapy. I specialized in severe mental illness and addictions while completing my master’s work, and developed a niche for treating teens and those who are currently struggling with traumatic experiences. 

From a more general standpoint, I have experience treating the following: substance use, addictions, anxiety, depression, PTSD and other stress-related disorders, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, behavioral issues, grief, and life transitions. A staple in my therapy sessions is my passion for educating my clients so that they can better understand exactly what is happening and why. I integrate TF-CBT to identify and challenge negative self-thoughts associated with traumatic experiences, and I utilize trauma education to address the challenges of life experiences. 

Ultimately, my goals are my clients’ goals; I value guidance and support to help individuals achieve their best selves and see the change they desire in their lives. 

Kelly Coulopoulos, MSW, LCSW

Kelly Coulopoulos, MSW, LCSW

Kelly Coulopoulos, MSW, LCSW

Kelly Coulopoulos

I have been practicing as an LCSW with DBT certification since 2010 and am currently pursuing trauma and play therapy certifications. Over the years, I have worked with clients ranging from as young as four to adulthood, addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and sexually maladaptive behaviors. 


I believe that many factors influence mental health and it can manifest in diverse ways. Trust and consistency are foundational in my relationships with clients. I view all behaviors as forms of communication and aim to meet clients where they are, fostering a dependable and supportive therapeutic alliance. 


Aside from therapy, I worked in inpatient and residential facilities for many years where I managed frequent crisis situations. 

Lauren Cibak, MA, LMHCA

Kelly Coulopoulos, MSW, LCSW

Lauren Cibak, MA, LMHCA

Lauren Cibak

Hi! My name is Lauren Cibak! I graduated with my B.A. in Psychology in 2016 from Indiana University East. I then graduated with my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in 2018 from Liberty University. I am TF-CBT certified and trained in EMDR therapy. I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, tailoring each session to fit the unique needs of my clients. 


My goal is to always be authentically myself as a therapist, for I truly care for the well-being of my clients and want them to feel a sense of genuineness during therapy sessions. I focus on equipping them with coping skills, parenting skills, and better communication so that they feel confident that they will be successful and prepared for whatever circumstances they may face in their daily lives. 


I work with individuals experiencing or diagnosed with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, oppositional defiance, autism, ADHD, divorce/blended families, and family conflict. I value my client’s confidentiality through a therapeutic relationship. I consider myself a Christian therapist, working with those who have Christian beliefs. 

Amye Gourley, MS, LCSW

Kelly Coulopoulos, MSW, LCSW

Lauren Cibak, MA, LMHCA

Ayme Gourley

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to providing strengths based and culturally competent therapy. My background includes working with behavioral concerns, substance abuse, trauma, and stressors impacting daily functioning. My mission is to guide, support, and empower clients of all ages to achieve their desired goals. I am trained in DBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, substance use and family systems. Contact me with any questions, I am here to help.

Dorthea Robbins, MSW, LCSW

Jessica Miller, LMHCA, Family Coach

Dorthea Robbins, MSW, LCSW

Dorthea Robbins

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a graduate of Indiana University Northwest with a concentration in mental health and addictions. I have worked in social services for over 20 years in a variety of settings, beginning my therapy practice in 2014. My experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, helping them navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, behavioral concerns, adoption, and parenting struggles. I take a client-centered approach, meeting people where they are with the understanding that they are the experts in their own lives. I like to incorporate humor when appropriate to create a comfortable and approachable space for growth. Therapy can be heavy, but a sense of humor can help clients rise above the discomfort they are experiencing. 


While I am empathetic and supportive, I also believe in being direct. My preferred therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and a strengths-based perspective. I am also trauma-informed and trained, working with individuals who have experienced various types of such. Above all, I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable and invested in their healing. The truest measure of success in therapy, for me, is when a client can independently use the coping skills and strategies we've worked on to navigate life's challenges. Even the smallest step forward is a victory. I believe therapy should be as normalized as getting a haircut—there’s no shame in seeking support. I look forward to being a part of your journey toward healing and peace.

Kristina Devors, MS, LCSW

Jessica Miller, LMHCA, Family Coach

Dorthea Robbins, MSW, LCSW

I’m committed to creating a safe space for all individuals, regardless of age, background, diagnosis, or personal decisions, and I strive to develop trust and connection with each client. I work with clients on feeling confident in using their voices and working toward getting their needs met in healthy ways. I've been practicing full-time as a therapist since 2014, with experience in the therapeutic field since 2011. I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior (TF-CBT) therapist and have qualifications in working with families using Narrative, Solution-Focused, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. 


My approach is rooted in non-judgment, flexibility, and a strengths-based perspective that also challenges clients to grow through deeper thinking. My work with clients helps them realize how trauma can affect their thoughts and use that knowledge to work toward who he/she/they want to become. I believe that building strong rapport is key to successful interaction with clients—it’s what allows us to work through even the toughest moments together while promoting a healthy way to communicate with one another. 


My areas of expertise include trauma, family and relationship issues, disordered eating, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, divorce, and co-parenting issues along with other general dysfunction. I enjoy working with pre-teens, teenagers, and young adults, especially those facing adjustment challenges, loss, and grief. I am dedicated to inspiring reflection and hope in every session, ensuring that clients leave each encounter feeling more seen, understood, and empowered than when they arrived. 

Jessica Miller, LMHCA, Family Coach

Jessica Miller, LMHCA, Family Coach

Jessica Miller, LMHCA, Family Coach

Jessica Miller

I have a Bachelor Degree in psychology and have worked with people in crisis since 2014.  I specialize in family systems and supporting parents.  I work with families who are struggling with divorce and parenting difficult children. I am specifically trained in helping noncustodial parents with supervised visiting time. I can come into your world an help you with behavioral support for your child(ren) who struggle to follow expectations around them. 


I believe in Positive Parenting with love and limits. I have training in trauma, parenting programs, family systems, and divorce mediation. 

Jeanette Barcenas, LMHCA

Jeanette Barcenas, LMHCA

Jessica Miller, LMHCA, Family Coach

Jeanette Barcenas, LMHCA

Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor  (LMHC). I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from Adler University in Chicago in 2021 and am currently working toward becoming a Registered Art Therapist (ATR). I am passionate about continuing to expand my therapeutic knowledge and skills so that I can provide the highest quality care and best support my clients’ growth and healing.


I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in both outpatient and residential settings. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I utilize evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), to help clients develop coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and navigate life’s challenges.


I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, or life transitions, I am committed to helping you build resilience, gain insight, and work toward meaningful change.

Candy Forsythe

Jeanette Barcenas, LMHCA

Henry, Therapy Dog

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. I have worked in social services for 32 years. The past 11 years I've worked specifically with families in crisis.


At Life and Trauma Survivor Center, I use my knowledge, experience, and specialized training to support families as they navigate the challenges of co-parenting and raising children with disruptive behaviors. My work focuses on family systems, and I have specific training in assisting noncustodial parents during supervised parenting and visitation time.

I utilize a strength-based approach when working with families and believe in positive parenting through a balance of love and limits. My professional training includes trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, parenting programs, family systems, and divorce mediation.

I am passionate about helping families build healthier relationships, strengthen communication, and create positive outcomes for both parents and children.

Henry, Therapy Dog

Jeanette Barcenas, LMHCA

Henry, Therapy Dog

Henry, German Shepard


I am a certified therapy dog trained to detect stress & anxiety, and provide comfort in response.


Sherrie Shivok is my mom and I like to lounge with Jessica Miller in her office between my sessions. 

Meet our staff: Pennsylvania

Anne-Belle Izquierdo, MS

Anne-Belle Izquierdo, MS

Anne-Belle Izquierdo, MS

Therapy is a space where change begins—one hour at a time. I work with children, teens, and adults navigating a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, including trauma, emotional dysregulation, and mental health diagnoses. My mission is to empower each individual to reclaim their strength, discover their goals, and build a life of thriving. My clinical experience includes working with children who display extreme emotional reactions and behavioral concerns, as well as teens and adults coping with trauma, or a sense of feeling stuck. 


Using a holistic approach that looks beyond symptoms on a page, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and emotion regulation strategies to help clients understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors connect.

Together, we can identify patterns, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and work toward lasting emotional balance and personal fulfillment. There is life after trauma. Living with mental illness or emotional pain can feel isolating, but it is not the end of the story. I’m here to help you find your way forward—compassionately, collaboratively, and at your pace.

Sarah Alley, LAPC

Anne-Belle Izquierdo, MS

Anne-Belle Izquierdo, MS

Sarah has been working in addiction and family therapy since 2009.  She has experience working with diverse populations and clients who identify with substance use disorder, co-occurring disorders, trauma, and family issues. Sarah is able to offer her clients a calm, inviting, and a nonjudgmental presence. 

​Sarah creates a welcoming space for clients to holistically explore and address underlying issues. People usually seek out therapy when life begins to feel overwhelming or if there has been a significant change. Everyone has life challenges. By supporting clients to gain greater awareness and to understand that they can be managed in healthy ways, Sarah guides clients through those struggles. 

Sarah specializes in working with clients with anxiety, depression, addiction background, families that have suffered from loved ones in active addiction, as well as couples counseling. Her personal experiences with addiction have equipped her to offer both empathy and motivation.  Sarah helps clients to understand how addiction affects the family system and offers self-care tools towards finding capability within themselves. She recognizes her role in validating and celebrating the work clients do and the changes they are able to make. Her approach is integrative, supporting each person in discovering their own path to healing, because no two journeys are ever the same.

My goal is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to explore, and empowered to move forward in a way that feels aligned with you. And my ​​​​​​hope is that clients feel more grounded, reconnect with their true self, and find direction and purpose. If you are willing to do that work, therapy can help restore the light within you.  

My approach blends evidenced-based, holistic therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT).  I specialize in family of origin issues, relational issues, trauma, recovery, and supporting individuals in managing anxiety, depression and life transitions.  I have worked extensively with individuals facing both acute challenges and long-term patterns, helping them not only cope but thrive in their day-to-day lives.

Sarah is a certified allied addiction practitioner and a certified recovery specialist (CAAP), a certified recovery specialist (CRS) and is a licensed associate counselor (LAPC). She is a member of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association (PCA). She has a Master of Arts in clinical counseling from Alvernia University and a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and health promotion and fitness from Coastal Carolina University. Sarah has experience and worked in in-patient settings, in partial hospitalization programs, and private practice. 

Lucy, Therapy Dog

Anne-Belle Izquierdo, MS

Lucy, Therapy Dog

Life and Trauma Survivor Center

402 Wall Street, Suite 42, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383

Phone: 219-510-8043 Fax: 219-510-8044

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