Meet Our Team

Cynthia "Cindy" Finnegan, LMSW

CEO

I am not your typical nor traditional therapist! If you're looking for a therapist who is stuffy and uptight, or if you prefer clinical jargon and lots of big words, I am not the therapist for you. I’m the therapist who may show up wearing jeans and sandals one week and a long dress the next. I have tattoos and don’t try to hide them. I will call you on your crap when appropriate, and I might even swear while doing so. I support BLM, LGBTQIA+ and I believe in Science. I may not be a "typical" therapist, yet I am me & I am genuine. If you want to become the best you possible, give me a call! I know I can help.

Fun Facts:

1. My first grandbaby was born in 2021

2. I have 4 rescue pets: Bosco (dog), Granny (dog), Sparty (cat) and Cujo (cat).

3. Prince is my all-time favorite musician, and one of my best vacations was visiting Paisley Park in Minneapolis

Kevin F. Fowler Sr.

COO

I handle all the behind-the-scenes stuff that keeps the lights on and the doors open at Motor City Center for Hope. In other words, I'm your go-to guy for just about everything else except therapy.

Fun Facts:

1. My favorite book is Beyond Good and Evil by Friedrich Nietzsche

2. I practice BJJ and Muay Thai and spend a lot of my free time in the gym

3. I love to play and study chess

Austin J. Kieffer, LMSW

Clinical Supervisor - Dearborn Heights/Inkster Office

My approach to clients and the therapeutic relationship begins with unconditional positive regard. I strive to build a therapeutic environment where my clients are accepted fully as worthy, capable individuals. I believe that thoughts, feelings, and our actions interact constantly based on past experiences that continue to influence our present. I would be happy to assist you in developing new ways of thinking about past, present, and future events in order to achieve your best self. I work wide a wide variety of clients; some of the topics I most frequently help with include mood disorders, trauma, and LGBTQ concerns.

Fun Facts:

1. I spent three weeks in Cuba during the summer of 2014.

2. My vinyl record collection contains over 170 items.

3. In my free time I love watching and discussing Classic Hollywood cinema.

Kiara Plump

Administrative Assistant

Hey, I am Kiara (she/her) and I go by either Kay or KP. My passion includes advocating and caring for others; thus why I am employed as an Administrative Assistant at Motor City Center for Hope. Although I am on the administrative side, it brings joy to my life being able to provide a helping hand and be a listening ear for members of the community. In 2017, I graduated with my Associates Degree in Applied Science with a concentration of Mental Health and Social Work. Further future career goals of mine are to be a Psychiatric Nurse, obtain my doctorate in Psychology, and create an organization "An Ear to Care" for all individuals.

Fun Facts:

1.My favorite flower is a sunflower

2.I am an art lover, and have an eye for aesthetics, colors, and patterns.

3.I like to think I have an old soul, and love vintage or antique items.

Kendella Coleman, BA, MA, M.Ed, LLPC

Clinical Therapist

I have worked in the helping/health field for more than 35 years with 25 years in the dental field as a Dental Assistant and as a Dental Assistant Instructor. During my years of working in the dental field, I had the opportunity to encounter many individuals from all walks of life with many issues that seemingly disturbed their “PEACE”. That experience encouraged my counseling journey.

My belief is that every individual should live a life of “PEACE”. I believe that “PEACE” is accomplished by combating issues that have disturbed one’s emotional, financial, physical, and spiritual health. My ultimate goal is to assist clients in exploring and processing their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, to improve their quality of life engulfed in “PEACE”.

Patients typically come into therapy feeling anxious, afraid and wanting relief. I strive to alleviate this discomfort with my caring, open, and empathetic demeanor. Experience has shown me that therapy can help patients better live life on life's terms. I believe that through acceptance, committed action, and the help of a professional, lasting change is possible.

Fun Facts:

1.I love music I especially love singing, in fact as a young girl I won several awards for my vocals.

2.I love visiting museums and the knowledge of history it brings.

3.I love traveling and experiencing new adventures.

Riley Max, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

My philosophy in therapy is that the client is the expert of themselves and their situation. I can provide some guidance and an outside perspective, but ultimately my goal is to help you discover your unique abilities and means for bettering yourself that are already within you. My goal is not to fix your problems for you, but to help you find new perspectives and tools for managing problems in general so that you are better able to handle whatever life throws your way. I have experience with a wide variety of client populations and presenting problems, including work with the LGBTQ+ community and experience with holistic modalities and grief therapy. If you're looking to share your story with an empathetic and empowering ear, I look forward to meeting with you.

Fun Facts:

1. I have a passion for music and love going to concerts and music festivals.

2. My favorite trip I've been on has been to Sedona, Arizona. Absolutely gorgeous!

3. I love to read and one of my favorite books is The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

Armonique Threatt, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

In order for one to heal one must release what they’re suppressing. Together we will work on effective coping strategies to address the root cause to any difficulties you’re struggling with . My space is safe and allows you to get back to “a healed you”. With my personal life experiences included, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ Affirmative therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho-education, evidence-based treatments and Co Occurring Disorders.

Fun facts:

1.I love to travel (it’s self care)

2.Turtles are my favorite animal

3.I am a daredevil

Shalynn Rangel, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

I believe that therapy should be a safe and welcoming environment where the clients can vent, explore their feelings, and work through the things going on in their lives. I love working with people, and I have been involved in this field since I was 14 years old. It is truly my passion. My goal is to make therapy an enjoyable time for my clients. It doesn't have to be so serious! I enjoy seeing a wide range of clients, and I look forward to working with you soon.

Fun facts:

I am a cat mom to a fluffy Maine Coon named Augustine (Auggie or Augs for short)

I live in Detroit and absolutely love living in the city!

I love to travel and sightsee

Ravila Akhmedova, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

Empathy is my superpower! Helping others to find their courage and realize their potential, I use my education and experience in the field to support those who have endured trauma, injustice, and pain. A believer in the power of resilience. Advocate for social justice and mental health. Passionately committed to using my experience, knowledge, and understanding to help those who have endured trauma and injustice.

Three fun facts about me:

1. I have two birthdays.

2. My previous career was managing a hotel.

3. Fast & Furious is my favorite movie.

Ray Shipman, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

I have made it my job to normalize therapy in different communities. From the church to the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that the purpose of therapy is to help you discover the answers that you need to your past struggles, present difficulties, and future questions, that are already inside you. I am not the traditional therapist, and I plan to use every tool in OUR arsenal to help you process. Like Captain Planet, I want to combine our “powers” to help you process and work through individual, family, and whatever other issues that may come up. Listening to you will be my goal, but I do not mind pulling an “Iyanla” (google her) on you and getting you to do your own work. I have worked hard at making sure to find the line for you in therapeutic intervention as well as spiritual guidance.

Fun Facts:

1.I almost made it to Hollywood at an American Idol Audition.

2.I have 3 favorite musical artists, from 3 different genres (Beyonce’, Celine Dion & Kira Daffin)

3.I enjoy a good argument, keeps the blood pumping

Sh'Vaughn Nunley, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

Life can be very challenging, and sometimes we need support to become more self-aware and make the changes necessary to rise above the circumstances. It is my job to give you the tools to navigate through your most difficult life encounters. I will provide a safe, nurturing, and judgment-free atmosphere that will allow you to begin your journey to self-healing. Learning from your emotions and past experiences is the best way to grow and heal. I combine life experiences, psycho-education, and evidence-based treatments to help clients understand their symptoms, re-frame thought patterns, and use the tools we learn in session in everyday life. Allow me to help reconnect you to your strengths and purpose by processing and understanding your thoughts and emotion.

Fun Facts:

1. I have rekindled my love for roller skating and try to go skating at least once a week.

2. I love taking photos with my Canon camera (mostly of my kids!).

3. I absolutely LOVE baking!!

Elizabeth Mullins, LLP

Clinical Therapist

I am licensed by the State of Michigan as a psychologist and have been a public school educator for over 24 years. I've spent time as a clinical psychologist providing assessments, evaluations, treatment plans, and therapy. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Faith-Based Christian Counseling. My combined experience as an educator and psychologist offers the perfect blend for assisting parents with navigating the challenges of education with their children. I've been an advocate for parents of special needs children. I have a heart for the special needs child and his/her parents, as I have an adult son with Autism.

Fun Facts:

1. Music is my mood regulator. 90's R&B is my favorite.

2. I prefer a pool over the beach, Coke over Pepsi, books over movies, and a night in over a night out.

3. I have a Rottweiler Rescue named Java. I like to rescue senior bully breed dogs.

Todd Losié, MATL, MS, LMSW

Clinical Therapist

Sometimes life gets in the way of our happiness. Sometimes we continue to struggle with challenges from our past. Whatever the challenges, there is hope to move through those challenges that keep us from living our most fulfilled selves. Whether your challenges in life are depression, out-of-control behaviors, marital issues, divorce recovery, anxiety, the effects of bullying, or a history of abuse - I can support you in your journey. I work with individuals and couples and use a psychodynamic and somatic approach that integrates the whole person. I work with men and men's issues, women, couples, and adolescents. You will not be alone. I look forward to partnering together to support your goals.

Fun Facts:

1. I once sang heavy metal badly in a karaoke bar in Japan whose audience consisted of 3 older women.

2. I’m a fan of rescued dogs and other rescued souls (canine and human alike).

3. I’m a 27 year veteran educator (teacher, principal, social worker).

Tye Baker, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

As your therapist I will provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space to help you achieve personal growth and goals. I will guide you through the healing process that balances your emotional, mental, social, physical, and ideal self. I describe myself as down to earth and passionate about each client that embarks on a journey to develop skills and live a more fulfilling and present life.

Fun Facts:

1. I enjoy traveling and being by the ocean

2. I love reading

3. I enjoy watching reality tv

Carlotta Mann, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

Life can be very stressful and overwhelming. I am here to help you master good habits to reduce stress and anxiety for a better sense of peace and mental clarity. My CBT approach helps you manage stress and anxious thoughts. It helps you learn how to become resilient against those negative feelings in your life. I have both my Bachelors and Masters degree in Social Work from Wayne State University with a focus on Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I look forward to collaborating with you to support your goals.

Fun facts:

1. I love massages

2. I love watching romantic comedies

3. I love 90's R&B

Darthanian Nichols, LLMSW

Clinical Therapist

I get it. I'm not the talkative type either. After working in the community and interacting with so many different people, from every walk of life, I realized, we aren't all that much different. My experience touches people who are active in addiction as well as working on their recovery, individual and couple support and doing groups (I love doing groups). Education is usually my goal, because if you know, you can grow. I have learned that sometimes a listening ear is what people need and I will be that ear for you. No matter your past, we will work to make sure we create a better future for you.

Fun Facts:

1.I LOVE Fantasia

2.I listen to musicals when I'm driving long road trips (Hamilton is my favorite)

3.I will YouTube or read and figure out how to do anything

Nastajia Dent, BSW

Therapist Intern

I am here to listen without judgement, help you find your voice when you don’t feel heard, show you your strength that has always been within, and provide a safe space while helping you achieve your goals. I am taking part in the opioid workforce program: looking to specialize not only in mental health, but alcohol and substance use as well.

Fun facts:

1. I was on a dance team and danced to afro beats for 3+ years

2. I was in a band, my instrument was drums and I am currently learning guitar

3. I absolutely love pandas!

Adam Haj, BSW

Therapist Intern

A very important part of therapy is listening, and doing so attentively. We all just want to be heard. Your goals, your dreams, your anxieties or your traumas and your willingness to overcome them; these all matter, and they create this beautiful orchestra that is You. You might feel like some of the instruments in this orchestra are out of tune. That’s okay. We will work together and help you develop the skills and techniques you'll need to fine-tune these instruments and get you back behind the conductor’s podium.

Fun facts:

1.I used to be in a band. We were awful but the vibes were immaculate.

2.I like to go to the gym, but I love walking. For like, hours. I will almost always opt for walking.

3.I’m very introverted, but I am actively challenging myself to become more out-going.

Karen Ward, MBA

Therapist Intern

My hope is that every client that comes to me feels that they are being heard. I provide a safe, supportive space so that you can talk about any issue, concern, or emotion that you may be dealing with. In this space there is no judgement. I will sometimes challenge your way of thinking and hopefully get you to see that you can change your outlook. I believe that everybody has the ability to make healthy choices in thoughts and behaviors. Together we will come up with the best plan to help get you on the path to feeling better!

Fun facts:

1.I have 4 “fur children”. Rosco (Bub) is my 5-year-old Coonhound mix. Callie (KittyCal) is my 4-year-old Calico cat. Jolene (Jo Jo) is my 3-year-old long haired domestic black cat. Daisy (Angel Baby) is my 2-year-old Fox Terrier mix. I could talk for hours about them, no joke!!

2.I was the organist for my church for 10 years.

3.I love to collect decorative boxes and bags….. One can’t have too many!!!

Elise Dilaura, BSW

Therapist Intern

I believe that therapy is a way to gain greater insight into yourself. With knowledge and understanding, therapy can help to promote a better relationship with yourself and others. I will provide a supportive and confidential environment where we can explore these thoughts and feelings. Currently, I am completing a Master of Social Work from Wayne State University. I have been working as a social worker for the past several years and strive to empower individuals to become their best selves. I am very passionate about therapy and look forward to working with you.

Fun facts:

1. I have a cat named Mika who I rescued at 5 years old.

2. I enjoy trying new recipes, as long as I don’t have to do the dishes after!

3. I love finding new places to eat with family and friends."

Sonya Ramey, BSW

Therapist Intern

I have completed my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work at Wayne State University and am currently working on completing my Master's Degree. Throughout my career I have accumulated over 21 years of professional clinical experience in the healthcare field, during which I have developed my counseling skills by working with clients from all walks of life. I approach therapy from a level headed perspective involving realistic mindsets and down to earth experiences. I believe that everyone needs someone to talk to, and my objective is to provide you with meaningful and eye opening insights that enable you to reach new goals.

Fun facts:

1. I love all kinds of music

2. I adore quality time with family

3. I love to travel

Jennipher Gee, B.Sc. Ed

Therapist Intern

Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and challenging. Working in health care for twenty-five years has taught me that mental health is just as important as physical health. No two people are identical, and each person’s journey is uniquely theirs. As a Wayne State Master of Social Work Intern, my goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where we can collaboratively explore your emotions, discover your strengths, and tackle your challenges. I look forward to working with you.

Fun Facts:

1.I am Canadian. I do say 'eh' and 'sorry' - a lot.

2.I coach a girls travel fastpitch baseball team and have been known to wear a tutu and pirate’s hat on the field to motivate my players.

3.I am a sports enthusiast. October is my favorite month because I can watch baseball, hockey, and football all in the same day.

Monique Irvin, BSW

Therapist Intern

I have a passion and desire to help others in the community. I am a licensed Evangelist who loves the Lord with all my heart. I am a student at Colorado Christian University. I am currently in the psychology mental health counseling program. I am excited and ready to gain hands-on experience as a clinical intern. I enjoy helping others and have excellent communication skills as well as being a good listener. I believe that everyone is somebody. In this world today no one is perfect and despite the obstacles that come into your life you can make it through with the help of therapy.

Fun facts:

1.I love family gatherings and spending time with my husband and children.

2.I love gospel music.

3.I enjoy praying for others.

Amy Miller, BSW

Therapist Intern

I believe that therapy is a place to feel safe and secure while giving you space to address your goals and needs. I am a student at Wayne State University working towards a master's degree in Social Work. I have a passion for helping people be their best selves. My goal is for you to become your best self by learning the tools you need to address issues or challenges in your life. My aim is to support you in reaching your goals in the best way for you and meeting you where you are at in whatever journey you are in.

Fun Facts:

1. I love animals. So much so that I have three cats and two dogs!

2. My favorite person to spend time with is my niece.

3. My first job was as a lifeguard and swim instructor. I taught all ages, from infants to adults.

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