When people ask why I became a therapist, my answer is simple: It chose me!
I am a doctoral student in Clinical Counseling and Supervision at Tennessee Tech University, with a research focus on marginalized populations of children and adolescents with autism. I earned my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Tennessee Technological University in 2013 and have been practicing ever since.
As a therapist, I provide services to individuals of all ages and diverse backgrounds, with a strong focus on trauma recovery. I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for children and adults, utilizing evidence-based modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). My experience includes treating anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and other challenges that disrupt daily life.
In addition to therapy, I have recently begun providing autism testing for children and adolescents in our community. My goal is to offer comprehensive evaluations that help families gain a clearer understanding of their child’s unique strengths and needs, ensuring they receive the best possible support and resources.
I take a client-centered approach, guiding individuals on their journey to becoming their most authentic selves. My goal is to create a supportive, empowering space where healing and growth can take place.
When I’m not working, I love spending time with my family, enjoying the outdoors, and staying active in all things sports.
I began my journey in social services in 2004, working with victims of domestic violence and collaborating with Upper Cumberland resources to support individuals and families in need. I earned my bachelor's degree in Child Development and Family Relations from Tennessee Technological University and went on to complete a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Tennessee.
My passion lies in helping families regain stability and peace in their homes. My clinical experience is working with couples, individuals facing substance use disorders, anxiety, and depression. Using a person-centered approach, I meet you where you are in life’s journey—without judgment. My goal is to provide a realistic and supportive space where you can develop coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges and move forward with confidence.
Additionally, my experience working with the courts and family services has allowed me to specialize in family court-related matters. With a court order, I provide custody evaluations, parenting assessments, co-parenting sessions, parenting coordination, and other court-related services to support families in transition.
You might spot me out and about with my family, enjoying the outdoors, trying new restaurants, or browsing the shops!
I graduated with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Tennessee Technological University in 2014. I have experience working in the inpatient, Intensive Outpatient, and Partial Hospitalization settings. During this time, I have developed an understanding of the importance of having someone provide non-judgmental support while addressing various issues including depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, stigma, suicidal thinking, and low self-esteem. My goal is to help clients increase awareness of thoughts and perspectives that may be impending them from addressing their core issues, developing healthier behaviors, and experiencing more balanced feelings. I think the most rewarding part of the counseling profession is to see a client have a moment of recognition leading to growth and self-improvement. My primary source of experience is working with adults, but I enjoy working with ages 15 and up. I work only at our Sparta, TN location.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, drinking a large cup of coffee, listening to music, and watching movies.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of professional practice experience in a variety of social work settings including children and family services, crisis counseling, healthcare, academia and private practice; her professional focus is on emphasizing the essential need for healthy coping strategies and self-care for individuals. Her clinical experience includes providing individual and family therapy in areas of anxiety, PTSD, depression, relationships, family dynamics, cultural diversity, grief, trauma and loss. She utilizes knowledge and skill in trauma informed practice across all settings and utilizes a variety of approaches towards client overall well-being.
In her personal time, she enjoys the outdoors, family, friends and pets!
LeAnne graduated with a bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in social work from Tennessee Technological University. Immediately after graduating from TTU, she enrolled in the Master of Science in Social Work program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville College of Social Work. LeAnne obtains a certification on trauma treatment from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville College of Social Work as well. Shortly after graduating from UT in 2023, she successfully passed the state licensure exam to become a Licensed Master Social Worker. She is currently working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. LeAnne is a compassionate social worker who has experience in substance use treatment, community mental health, and crisis intervention. LeAnne's work history and knowledge was gained by working for a community mental health agency. She currently works full-time for as an Intensive Outpatient Counselor for substance use. She believes in the power of a therapeutic relationship as it is a significant component to providing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration and healing. She enjoys working with families to build healthy life-long relationships despite hardships that life may bring. LeAnne is dedicated to her role as a social worker and helping her clients navigate their healing journey. Her role at Insightful is to provide a safe environment for visits that are supervised and therapeutic to include intervening and/or redirecting if and when appropriate and encouraging interactions that allow growth for healthy relationship(s).
LeAnne enjoys hiking, spending time with her two Rottweilers, reading, traveling, and spending time with family.
Melissa has been the backbone of our agency, providing superior support to both our clinicians and clients. With over 13 years of experience in the medical field as an Office Assistant and Insurance Biller, she ensures that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
From verifying insurance benefits and managing all billing tasks to scheduling appointments, taking payments, and coordinating client care, Melissa keeps us all on track. Her dedication and efficiency allow our clinicians to focus on what they do best—helping clients—while she ensures that every detail is handled with care and precision.
Outside of work, Melissa loves traveling and camping with her husband, spending time with her young adult children, and getting lost in a good book.
Hi, I’m Lyndsay Herron, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and I’m honored to be part of the compassionate team at Insightful Pediatric & Family Therapy as a medication management provider.
I’ve been working in the psychiatric field since 2014 and earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University in August 2024. Being raised in the Upper Cumberland, I have a deep connection to this community and a strong passion for providing high-quality, personalized mental health care.
My approach to treatment is holistic and evidence-based, focusing on the whole person rather than just symptoms. I believe that with the right support, every individual has the power to create the life they want. My goal is to empower you with the tools and resources needed to navigate your mental health journey with confidence.
Outside of work, I’m a wife and proud mom of two wonderful children who are my heart and soul. I love spending time with my family and our two cats, as well as reading, cooking, and traveling whenever I get the chance.
I look forward to working with you and helping you take meaningful steps toward a fulfilling, balanced life.
"The best way to predict your future is to create it." – Peter Drucker