OUR PROVIDERS

Dr. Williams is originally from Tallahassee, FL. She received her medical doctorate from the University of South Florida and then trained at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, one of the largest and most reputable psychiatry residency programs in the country. There she was the chief resident of inpatient services and completed a one-year fellowship in Community Mental Health. She is now an esteemed board-certified psychiatrist in the Montgomery, Alabama community.


She primarily treats adults with disorders of mood, anxiety, psychosis, and personality, along with those struggling with addiction, past trauma, intellectual disabilities, and memory difficulties. She is a strong advocate for individuals suffering from mental illness and absolutely loves helping individuals find genuine wellness.


In efforts to improve healthcare and advance medicine in Alabama, Dr. Williams completed the Auburn University Physician Executive MBA program in 2018. She was recently elected by the physicians of Alabama to represent them as the current President of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama. Additionally, Dr. Williams has previously served as their Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer. Dr. Williams is also a current Board Member of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and has a current appointment on the Office of Women's Health Steering Committee and the Licensure Advisory Board for the State of Alabama. She also supervises and provides mentorship to medical students during their psychiatry rotation and was previously the clerkship director for the UAB Montgomery psychiatry rotation.

Dr. Edmonds received his medical doctorate from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile, Alabama. He completed his psychiatry residency at Prisma Health – University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Edmonds served as the Chief Resident during his final year of training. The following year, he completed a one-year fellowship in forensic psychiatry, also at the University of South Carolina. He moved to the Montgomery area in 2022. Dr. Edmonds also works with individuals within the Alabama Department of Corrections. He is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry and has an additional board-certification in Forensic Psychiatry.

Dr. Jessaka Fife is a board certified psychiatrist in practice since 2007. She has experience in treating a wide range of psychiatric illnesses, including but not limited to depressive and anxiety disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, and also geriatric psychiatry conditions including dementia. In addition, Dr. Fife has experience working with Veterans in several capacities. Dr. Fife trained at University of Alabama School of Medicine and completed residency at University Hospital/ UAB Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology in Birmingham, Alabama where she was Chief Resident in her final year. Dr. Fife has long history of working with telehealth both in an inpatient and outpatient setting. In her spare time, Dr. Fife is a supporter of the local food bank and also the Montgomery Humane Society.

Chrissy Morris is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from the University of West Alabama in 2017 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2018 from the University of Alabama. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from Wilke's University in 2022. She is currently pursuing her doctoral degree from the University of Alabama. She worked as a staff nurse for six years in various mental health settings before obtaining her nurse practitioner degree. She enjoys spending time with her family and dogs and traveling in her free time.

Lakeesha Broughton-Nelson is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master of Science in nursing from Herzing University and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. She started her nursing career in Connecticut in 2008 working in inpatient, outpatient and residential treatment settings. Throughout that time she provided care for patients from various demographics with a variety of acute and chronic illnesses, many of whom also required psychiatric care. This experience influenced her decision to work exclusively in psychiatry. Since 2019 she has worked in mental health, primarily serving adult and geriatric populations. As a provider, Lakeesha has worked to assist patients manage numerous psychiatric diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, PTSD and bipolar disorder. She strives to provide quality and compassionate treatment and is committed to her patient's overall wellbeing.

Liane has been a family nurse practitioner in primary care for 8 years and providing inpatient psychiatric care for 2 years. She received her Family Nurse Practitioner degree from Auburn University and her Doctorate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Samford University. She has worked with numerous mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD. She takes a holistic, patient-centered approach to care and is dedicated to overall patient well-being.

Nicole Dean is a compassionate and hard-working board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 16 years of clinical experience. She has provided psychiatric care in various settings including community mental health centers, inpatient hospital units, veterans health services, and in private practice. Nicole has worked with patients struggling with numerous psychiatric diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. Using various treatment modalities, Nicole seeks to help patients manage their individual diagnoses and improve their overall quality of life.

She is an Alabama native who has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology & communication studies from Huntingdon College and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from AUM. Nicole obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University in 2019 where she was a member of Sigma Theta Tau and Omega Nu Lambda honor societies.

Rachel Liner is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the mental health field. She started as an energetic psychiatric nurse devoted to the care of her patients. She worked side by side with Dr. Amanda Williams for three years as her invaluable nurse and then as a nurse practitioner student. Her passion for excellent clinical care and collaborative practice is palpable. Rachel Liner has worked with patients struggling with a variety of mental health issues in high acuity inpatient units, a community mental health center, and in an outpatient practice. She integrates expert medication management with other therapeutic modalities to help adults with a wide range of emotional challenges and psychiatric diagnoses. She is committed to patient wellness and improving life satisfaction. Rachel Liner received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is credentialed through the American Nursing Credentialing Center.

​Thomas Earnest is a compassionate, sincere and hardworking board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over thirteen years working in hospital settings as a psychiatric nurse, he has tremendous experience working with those in acute distress, struggling with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, trauma and addiction.

He is very highly regarded by his colleagues and well-respected by both patients and staff. In 2018 he received the esteemed Florence Nightingale Award given for excellence in nursing. Thomas Earnest received his Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. His knowledge of psychiatric diagnoses and treatments is impeccable and he works closely with Dr. Amanda Williams to provide outstanding psychiatric care for our patients.

Ms. Aubrey Carpenter has a passion for helping people feel empowered to improve the quality of their lives. She graduated from UAB with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Alabama A&M. She has extensive clinical experience working with many individuals in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She specializes in counseling adults and couples struggling with a wide range of symptoms including depression, anxiety, stress, anger, mood disorders, addiction, and personality disorders.

Austin Isler is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a masters degree in Clinical Mental Health counseling and a bachelors in Counseling, both from Troy University in Montgomery.

He believes that mental wellness is an important part of living our best life. His goal is be a resource for individuals on a journey towards that life. Utilizing a collaborative approach, he individualizes each patient’s experience and treatment. Austin provides counseling for children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing various struggles including anxiety, depression, addiction, and season of life difficulties using evidence-based therapy modalities. I focus on helping individuals heal and become aware of their inner strengths.

Beth Whatley is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 18 years of experience working alongside adolescent and adult patients who want to make positive changes in their lives. While she has worked in substance abuse settings and with mentally ill inmates in state prisons, most of her clinical experience has been working with adults in an outpatient mental health setting. Beth's focus in therapy is to support and guide her patients to develop realistic and measurable small goals to achieve the change desired and to create space to empower the individual to cope with adversity. She uses strategies and techniques from multiple theories of counseling depending on the best fit for the client in an informal, compassionate and responsive style.

Mr. Bo Mallory is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with vast experience treating adults struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, interpersonal problems, grief and adjustment issues. He believes that everyone is capable of overcoming difficulties in our lives and becoming happier and healthier. As a husband and father, he understands that sometimes the problems we face require professional help. Bo draws from a strength based, patient-centered foundation utilizing evidence-based modalities. His relaxed and easy-going demeanor makes him a terrific therapist, and he enjoys working together with patients in a safe and empowering environment. He obtained his Master’s Degree in Social Work from Troy University and has worked in a variety of clinical settings.

Brady Beziat is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker invested in supporting individuals in the pursuit of a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Using a variety of therapeutic techniques, he works with those looking to improve resiliency to stress, manage symptoms of a variety of psychiatric disorders, or simply cope with life’s challenges.

He brings humor, honesty, and compassion to his practice. He has cared for individuals in both the inpatient and outpatient setting and is able to provide a valuable calm to very distressing circumstances.

Derrick C. Manora, MS, LPC-S received his undergraduate degree from The University of Alabama earning a BA in psychology. He received his Master of Science in Counseling and Human Development from Troy State University Montgomery (Troy University Montgomery). He has over twenty years of experience in the counseling field. Derrick works with families, couples, adolescents and adults coping with stress, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Derrick’s career has included adult and juvenile justice settings, substance use disorders, and inpatient psychiatric therapy including individual and group therapy. His therapeutic approach is individualized drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Person Centered Therapy. Derrick’s eclectic and individualized approach allows him to see the person and not merely the diagnosis.

Elizabeth Manderville is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to address a broad range of concerns. Elizabeth holds M.S. and ED.S degrees in Counseling and Human Systems (specializing in clinical mental health counseling) from Florida State University. Elizabeth has worked as an outpatient therapist in a psychiatric group practice setting since 2011. Elizabeth has interest and specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma-focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She describes her therapeutic orientation as “eclectic” and draws from several different treatment modalities depending on the needs of the individual.

Ms. Elizabeth Mitchell is a Licensed Professional Counselor who enjoys working with individuals dealing with issues related to grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress and difficult life transitions. She attended Troy University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Human Services. She also has a masters degree in Counseling and Psychology. She has worked extensively with college-aged young adults and enjoys helping people find joy, meaning and purpose in their lives even during hard times. Elizabeth primarily uses cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy, incorporating various other techniques tailored to the needs of each person. She is a warm, compassionate, and sweet person who quickly makes you feel at ease.

Ms. Emily Hopkins is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a Masters of Science in Social Work as well as a Graduate Certificate in the Treatment of Trauma. Emily has training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness practices. She has experience providing therapy on both the outpatient and inpatient levels of care. Emily is experienced in working with patients dealing with difficulties related to every day life stress to those struggling with severe mental health crises. Emily is  LGBTQI+ allied. She has a special clinical interest in women’s issues and traumatic birth recovery. Hers practice is driven by a trauma-informed approach.

Isaac is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a master's degree from Troy University Montgomery (Counseling and Psychology) and a EdS from Auburn University Montgomery (Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Psychology). He specializes in the areas of motivation, self esteem, career difficulties, depression, and coping with life changes. His additional areas of focus also include: codependency, commitment issues, fatherhood issues, first responder issues, gender dysphoria, hoarding, hospice and end of life counseling, personality disorders, postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, self-harm, and young adult issues.

His clinical approaches include Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Existential Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.

Isaac believes we are each the expert of our own story. We possess many strengths that we are often unaware which can assist in overcoming every challenge. Inevitably, the only way to the other side is through. Look forward to what is forward for you. Better days are here. Welcome!

Ms. Jamie Pruitt has over twenty years of clinical and administrative experience in the mental health field. She has worked alongside Dr. Williams for over five years helping individuals overcome personal struggles and build a life full of peace and fulfillment.

She is skilled in the treatment of adults, couples and families. Jamie uses a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to treat and support individuals struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, situational distress, and personality disorders, along with other illnesses.

Jason Orrock received his PhD in Counselor Education with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling from the University of Florida. He is also an alumnus of the University of Virginia, where he completed his master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He completed his undergraduate studies at Virginia Tech receiving a Bachelor’s of Science in Family and Child Development.

It is his mission to foster greater self-awareness and self-care, while improving an individual’s ability to love their self and others, ultimately striving to live a fulfilled life. He blends Existentialist, Attachment, and Gestalt theories to help clients understand anxiety is a lived condition that can be managed. Through exploration and discovery of self, clients will be able to improve their interactions with self and others, and hopefully discover their meaning and existence in life, thus improving mental health functioning. He is experienced in working with individuals and families that suffer from: anxiety, anger, military families, blended families, career exploration, couples counseling, depression, family conflict, PTSD, relationships, self-control, sex counseling, sexual orientation, social skills, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, trauma and sports performance in athletics.

His goal is to empower his patients to break negative patterns of thinking, feeling and communicating, developing a more heightened self-awareness that will produce lifestyle change resulting in greater mental, physical and spiritual functioning within their lives. He is an avid outdoorsman and loves spending free time on the water pursuing his passions of fishing and surfing, along with playing guitar and gardening.

Ms. Jennifer Venable-Humphrey is a licensed clinical social worker with more 20 years of experience in helping clients improve their lives. She believes therapy should be goal-oriented and client-driven, utilizing a strengths-based approach that starts with what is strong rather than what is wrong. This approach stems from her belief that everyone can set and reach goals in their life. Her training in social work lends itself to a holistic approach to helping people. Consequently, she seeks to treat the whole person: mind, body and spirit. Her clinical interests include grief and loss, helping families navigate transitions, addiction recovery, and mood disorders and dysregulation.

Mrs. Jill Sexton is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 18 years of clinical experience. Certified in trauma focused-CBT and trained in EMDR, she is well-versed in helping patients dealing with trauma, grief and loss, parenting difficulties and adoption-related challenges. Jill enjoys working with adolescents, adults and families and offers individual, couple, and family counseling. She graduated with an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Auburn University and with her masters degree in community counseling from Auburn University Montgomery. She worked with APAC for over a decade and has extensive knowledge and training in the adoption and foster field. She is trained in adoption competency having completed C.A.S.E's TAC training program in 2019.

Kate Atkins is a Licensed Professional Counselor who graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation before moving on to earn her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University, Montgomery. It was her work as a recreational therapist at the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, Colorado where she realized her passion and skill in helping others realize their unique strengths to build strategies to overcome life’s challenges.

Skilled in utilizing various cognitive therapy approaches tailored to client’s specific needs, she draws heavily from person-centered theoretical framework, approaching clients with warmth, curiosity, empathy, and a supportive, affirming stance. She enjoys working with adults, teens, and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, life stressors, parenting challenges, and executive functioning difficulties. She is ND and LGBTQIA affirming.

Mr. Kyle Flaherty is a caring and highly-knowledgeable therapist who has more than a decade of experience working with individuals, couples and families. He believes we are our best selves when we feel in control of how we think and behave. He is committed to helping individuals on their path through life to be the person they want to be and live a life they find fulfilling. Using various philosophical and theoretical approaches, Kyle is well-versed in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship conflict and more. He enjoys seeing his patients improve and overcome various struggles. In addition to being an excellent therapist, Kyle is also a warm, friendly, and thoughtful person who can make anyone feel at ease.

After graduating with a Psychology degree from University of Alabama, Kyle went on to get a Master of Science degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University. He has served on the Alabama Association for Play Therapy Board and has worked in a variety of mental health settings.

Ms. Laura Morris has years of experience counseling people with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma and abuse, as well as relationship issues, loneliness, and adjustment problems. She grew up in a military family and later married into the Air Force, so she is very familiar with the emotional and mental challenges faced by military families.

She believes genuineness and sincere empathy are the keys to forming a strong basis for trust and therapeutic growth. She draws from many styles of counseling such as CBT and DBT, person-centered, and Adlerian - just to name a few. She believes in working as a team with the patient to help them identify and achieve their goals in therapy. She obtained a degree in Community Counseling from the University of South Alabama before pursuing her LPC.

Ms. Leigh Anne Fagin is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who is focused on highlighting the resilience of the human spirit and building a more compassionate world. Leigh Anne matriculated at the University of Texas for her undergraduate degree and graduated with a Masters of Social Work from the University at Albany SUNY. Leigh Anne has been a practicing social worker in Montgomery since 2015. She is a behavioralist whose work is grounded in a Rogerian approach. She is experienced with a number of different interventions: Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness practices.  The end result is a customized and person-centered therapeutic environment where Leigh Anne can partner with her patients to meet their goals.

Leigh Anne’s clinical interests are varied but focus on harnessing human potential: trauma work, attachment issues, obsessions/compulsions, creating a neurodivergent affirming life, and sports performance. She is LGBTQIA affirming and has experience in working with WPATH criteria. Leigh Anne has a great interest in working with any person who is looking to tackle big things in their life.

Mrs. Lekesha Wyse is a Licensed Professional Counselor who graduated from Auburn University at Montgomery with a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from University of Alabama in Birmingham. Lakesha is currently certified as an Alcohol Drug Counselor with Alabama Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association (AADAA) and has extensive experience working with individuals struggling with addiction. She has expertise using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and will integrate other modalities as needed to meet the patient’s needs. She enjoys working with individuals that suffer from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, stress management, grief, and trauma. Her goal is to provide high-quality care built with empathy, compassion and support.

Dr. Cole has worked in the mental health field in a variety of roles and contexts since 2005, of which ten years were spent serving as an active duty psychologist in the United States Air Force in both military medical and operational contexts. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from BIOLA University, and his master’s and doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from Rosemead School of Psychology in Southern California. Dr. Cole has established a strong reputation for his specialization and success in treating complex and chronic mood, interpersonal, personality, and PTSD/trauma-related issues and disorders in adults. He also possesses extensive experience and expertise in providing psychotherapies to individuals, couples, and groups for a wide spectrum of issues and diagnoses, such as depression, anxiety and stress, grief and loss, early adulthood challenges, cross-cultural and multicultural issues, mental health and spiritual/religious conflicts, work and occupational struggles, and various relational problems with romantic partners, families, and friends.

Patients and professional colleagues of Dr. Cole would describe him as someone who is genuinely warm and compassionate, has a reassuring and calming presence and tone, and is a skilled and attentive listener who leaves you feeling heard and understood. They would also describe him as someone who possesses a keen ability to illuminate and identify important connections and patterns in your life that are central to your healing and growth. Dr. Cole personally tailors his therapeutic approach and interventions to your unique clinical needs and preferences based upon the best available research, treatments, and theoretical orientations. In particular, he pays special attention to the awareness, experiencing, and expression of important emotions; thoughts, feelings and motivations happening within and outside of awareness; the complex psychological mechanisms by which you cope with painful or difficult emotions and experiences; the impact of early relationships and experiences on patterns and struggles in present functioning; and how the therapy relationship can serve as vehicle for exploring, healing and correcting important personal and interpersonal issues and patterns.

McKenzie Litaker is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who works to create a calm and comfortable environment while providing positive and honest communication to help each patient reach their full potential. She graduated from Appalachian State University with her Master's of Social Work degree. She earned her undergraduate degree from Auburn University where she was also a member of the 2011-2015 women's softball team. She enjoys working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, low self- esteem, grief and loss, life stressors, sports performance and stressors related to athletics. Her therapeutic approach is individualized pulling from a variety of therapeutic models to best meet the patient's needs.

Ms. Sakia Dixon is a licensed clinical social worker committed to helping others reach their highest potential. She is passionate about working with individuals to understand purpose in every situation and utilize their inner strengths to overcome obstacles and distractions. She is a graduate of Alabama A&M University and has over sixteen years of experience working with both individuals and families. Her multigenerational therapeutic approach to clinical work is infused with skills and techniques derived from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused therapy and person centered therapy. She radiates joy and warmth and is skilled at working with those struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, and stress.

Ms. Victoria Tisdale is a skilled therapist who enjoys working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence and sexual abuse, low self-esteem, relationship conflict, and situational stressors. She earned her undergraduate degree at Auburn University and completed a Masters program at the University of Alabama. She has over five years of experience working in the mental health field and incorporates a variety of therapeutic techniques to best match the needs of the patient. Born in Eclectic, AL, she recently returned to our state after spending a few years living in Fayetteville, AR.

Ms. Megan Word is a Registered Dietitian dedicated to helping patients create a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. She received her undergraduate degrees from Auburn University and her Masters in Public Health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Megan completed her dietetic training through the University of Montevallo and specialized in a variety of areas including community and clinical nutrition, and foodservice during her training. She has worked in weight management for both the adult and the pediatric population over the last two years, encouraging patients that all foods fit into a healthy lifestyle and that “diets” are not sustainable. She also works with individuals struggling with disordered eating. Megan currently lives in Birmingham, Alabama and also works at the UAB Weight Loss Clinic.