***NOW ACCEPTING MISSOURI Healthnet MEDICAID***
Independence, MO Providers
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Laurie Carpenter is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kansas and Missouri. She holds certifications as a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) and a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. As the CEO of Authentic Life
Laurie Carpenter is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kansas and Missouri. She holds certifications as a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) and a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. As the CEO of Authentic Life Clinical Counseling and Wellness, Laurie is committed to fostering a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe and supported on their journey toward healing and growth.
Laurie's approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and a strengths-based perspective, allowing her to connect deeply with her clients and help them navigate their challenges with confidence and resilience. She believes in the power of personalized care and works diligently to tailor her therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Whether you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, or other life challenges, Laurie is here to provide expert guidance and compassionate support. She looks forward to walking alongside you on your path to wellness.
In her free time she enjoys her family, friends, faith and football.
Laurie is in network with Aetna, BCBS, UHC, Cigna, Tricare and Optum.
Rachael Hackler, LCSW, Lead Therapist
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Rachael is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and has been with Authentic Life since 2021. Rachael graduated from University of Central Missouri in 2018 and went on to get her Masters in Social Work at Park University and graduated in 2019. Rachael has previous work experience in community mental health working with adults with sev
Rachael is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and has been with Authentic Life since 2021. Rachael graduated from University of Central Missouri in 2018 and went on to get her Masters in Social Work at Park University and graduated in 2019. Rachael has previous work experience in community mental health working with adults with severe and persistent mental illness, working in adult inpatient psychiatric care, and working at a middle school as a school social worker for 2 years.
Rachael enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and adults and finds her passion partnering with clients to improve their ability to manage their symptoms and understand their emotions. Rachael takes a person-centered approach to therapy and meets clients where they are at emotionally. Rachael is competent in treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and improving social skills. Rachael welcomes and consistently works to create a safe environment for individuals of diverse backgrounds and orientations. Rachael is excited to be a provider at Authentic Life full time where she thoroughly enjoys her individual work with clients and the positive work atmosphere. In her free time Rachael enjoys spending time with her family and friends, playing with her cats, watching the Chiefs, gardening, and reading.
Rachael is in network with, Aetna, BCBS, UHC, Cigna, Tricare and Optum.
Amber Dealy, LPC, LCPC, Student Supervisor
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Amber Dealy, LPC, LCPC, Student Supervisor
"I did not come into this work on accident. I believe that therapists can only take people as far as they have journeyed themselves. I am here because I have had my own struggles, sadness, hurt, trauma and growth and it has led me to become passionate about the ability we have to heal. I believe that being truly seen, truly understood, a
"I did not come into this work on accident. I believe that therapists can only take people as far as they have journeyed themselves. I am here because I have had my own struggles, sadness, hurt, trauma and growth and it has led me to become passionate about the ability we have to heal. I believe that being truly seen, truly understood, and having someone to help guide you through the challenges of life is profoundly powerful to our happiness, wholeness and experience of the world and each other.
I have been doing this work for nearly 6 years and specialize in offering DBT, GESTALT, EMDR and CBT to people whom have experienced grief, loss, have low self-esteem, trauma, anxiety and depression. I have done extensive work with people whom have BPD and love that work deeply. I use a combination of these modalities and client centered work to learn and understand you, while helping you learn about and understand yourself.
I have been trained in the above modalities and used them in my own therapy. I have worked for several years with co-occurring disorders, and severe and persistent mental health disorders. This job is my passion and I am so grateful I get to do it."
Amber is in network with is in network with Aetna, BCBS, UHC, Cigna, Tricare and Optum.
Amber works with children and adults ages 10 and up. She provides individual, couples and family therapy.
Matt Scallion, LCSW, EMDR-C
Debra Richardson, LCSW, LSCSW
Amber Dealy, LPC, LCPC, Student Supervisor
Seeking help can be challenging, especially in a society where treatment is sometimes viewed as a sign of weakness. However, I learned early in my career that seeking support is a profound act of strength.
Since earning my MSW in 2015, I have had the privilege of serving both minors and adults dealing with emotional regulation, depressio
Seeking help can be challenging, especially in a society where treatment is sometimes viewed as a sign of weakness. However, I learned early in my career that seeking support is a profound act of strength.
Since earning my MSW in 2015, I have had the privilege of serving both minors and adults dealing with emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, substance use, and issues related to grief and loss. I also enjoy helping couples navigate the challenges of their relationships.
I am currently licensed in Missouri and Minnesota. My therapeutic approach incorporates a variety of treatment modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, motivational interviewing, and I take a strengths-based perspective.
I strive to help clients identify the root causes of their distress and ultimately live a life full of peace, passion, and purpose. If you are struggling, I welcome you to reach out. I look forward to helping you achieve your wellness goals.
Matt is in-network with Aetna, BCBS, UHC, Medicare, Cigna, Tricare, and Optum.
Debra Richardson, LCSW, LSCSW
Debra Richardson, LCSW, LSCSW
Debra Richardson, LCSW, LSCSW
Debra Richardson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is licensed in both MO and KS. Debra attended the University of Kansas and received her Masters degree in Clinical Social Work. Debra has over 25 years experience in a variety of mental health settings.
Debra enjoys working with Individuals, Families and Couples and is honored
Debra Richardson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is licensed in both MO and KS. Debra attended the University of Kansas and received her Masters degree in Clinical Social Work. Debra has over 25 years experience in a variety of mental health settings.
Debra enjoys working with Individuals, Families and Couples and is honored to be a part of the healing and growth of others.
Debra specializes in treating depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues. She uses evidence based treatment approaches including CBT, DBT and trauma-informed therapy.
Debra's goal as a therapist is to normalize counseling services and facilitate a safe environment for mental health services.
For self care, Debra enjoys reading, working out, listening to music, especially jazz and spending time with family and friends.
Debra is in network with Aetna, BCBS, UHC, Cigna, Tricare and Optum.
Debra works with adults. She provides individual, couples and family therapy.
Matthieu Gilme, LMSW
Debra Richardson, LCSW, LSCSW
Debra Richardson, LCSW, LSCSW
"I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with six years of experience working with individuals and within various systems, including community mental health facilities, communities, education, and healthcare settings. As a first-gen Haitian American, I chose this profession to help instill hope in others, believing that even a small amoun
"I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with six years of experience working with individuals and within various systems, including community mental health facilities, communities, education, and healthcare settings. As a first-gen Haitian American, I chose this profession to help instill hope in others, believing that even a small amount of hope can make all the difference in someone’s life. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that I truly grasp your perspective while asking the right questions to help you gain clarity. Whether you're dealing with life stressors like family conflict, relationship issues, work-related trauma, breaking generational patterns, or seeking to evolve into a new version of yourself, I am here to support you."
Matt is in the insurance credentialing and onboarding phase of employment. He will begin accepting new clients in February, 2025.
Matt will be accepting clients using self-pay, Aetna, Cigna, Tricare and Medicaid.
Matt works with adolescents and adults. He provides individual, couples and family therapy.
Tisha Griffith, CPS, HRS, Administrative Support Specialist
Tisha Griffith, CPS, HRS, Administrative Support Specialist
Tisha Griffith, CPS, HRS, Administrative Support Specialist
Tisha Griffith is on a dedicated path to becoming a Substance Abuse Counselor, diligently accumulating hours and experience. Her expertise extends to various areas, including life and coping skills, women’s issues, addiction recovery, and dual diagnosis.
Having personally triumphed over substance use, Tisha brings more than two years of re
Tisha Griffith is on a dedicated path to becoming a Substance Abuse Counselor, diligently accumulating hours and experience. Her expertise extends to various areas, including life and coping skills, women’s issues, addiction recovery, and dual diagnosis.
Having personally triumphed over substance use, Tisha brings more than two years of recovery experience to her role. Her passion lies in empowering others to achieve their unique success stories. She collaborates closely with our clinical staff, providing individual peer coaching across diverse life situations.
As a group co-facilitator, Tisha fosters connection and growth within our community. When you reach out to Authentic Life in Independence, she’s the friendly voice on the other end. Tisha assesses your needs and ensures you’re matched with the most suitable therapist.
Beyond work, Tisha cherishes family time, engages in service work, and actively participates in recovery-based activities. Her commitment to well-being extends to both herself and those she serves.
Kansas City, MO Providers
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Laurie Carpenter is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kansas and Missouri. She holds certifications as a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) and a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. As the CEO of Authentic Life Clinical Counseling and Wellness, Laurie is committed to fostering a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe and supported on their journey toward healing and growth.
Laurie's approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and a strengths-based perspective, allowing her to connect deeply with her clients and help them navigate their challenges with confidence and resilience. She believes in the power of personalized care and works diligently to tailor her therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Whether you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, or other life challenges, Laurie is here to provide expert guidance and compassionate support. She looks forward to walking alongside you on your path to wellness.
In her free time she enjoys her family, friends, faith and football.
Laurie is in network with Aetna, BCBS, UHC, Cigna, Tricare and Optum.
Dianna Obermueller, BS, MSW, LMSW, Lead Therapist
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Dianna is a licensed Master Social Worker, receiving clinical supervision. Dianna graduated from Kansas State University in 2019, and completed her Masters in Social Work from the University of Missouri. She has a bachelor's in nutrition and a bachelor's in kinesiology.
She is also the winner of our 2023, Student of the Year Award, for all of her hard work during her practicum at Authentic Life.
She uses a strengths-based approach to help clients understand their best selves.
Dianna focuses on working with individuals who have experienced trauma, individuals in the military, athletes, and couples.
She uses a primarily cognitive approach to help clients understand how trauma can impact their lives and relationships in various ways. Dianna is EMDR and Level II Gottman Method trained
Dianna works with children and adults ages 10 and up. She provides individual, couples and group therapy.
She is able to work with clients using Aetna, Cigna, MO Healthnet benefits as well as private pay.
Caitlyn Cornell, BSW, LMSW, CYMHS, Associate Therapist
Laurie Carpenter, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, Chief Executive Officer
Caitlyn Cornell, BSW, LMSW, CYMHS, Associate Therapist
Caitlyn is an LMSW receiving clinical supervision while working toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Social worker. She is also working toward play therapy certification and is a Certified Youth Mental Health Specialist. Caitlyn graduated in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Park University. While obtaining her Master of Social Work degree, Caitlyn interned at Authentic Life. During her internship at Authentic Life, Caitlyn worked with children, adolescents, and young adults through individual and group therapy. Most recently, Caitlyn graduated with a Master of Social Work from Park University in May 2024.
Caitlyn utilizes strengths-based and cognitive approaches when assisting her clients. When working with children, she uses play therapy modalities to create a safe and engaging therapeutic environment where children can explore and express themselves. Caitlyn understands that each child is unique and tailors her interventions to meet their individual needs. Caitlyn is dedicated to empowering children, adolescents, and young adults to navigate life’s challenges. Caitlyn strives to create a collaborative and affirming therapeutic relationship where clients can feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. In her free time, Caitlyn enjoys reading, watching the Royals and Chiefs and spending time with family and friends.
Caitlyn works with children, adolescents, and young adults ages 3 and up. Caitlyn will accept clients using Aetna, and Cigna benefits. MO Healthnet, as well as Private Pay. She is also in the credentialing phase with Medicaid.
Kelly Sanders, PLPC, Associate Therapist
Alyssa Miley, Marriage and Family Therapist
Caitlyn Cornell, BSW, LMSW, CYMHS, Associate Therapist
Kelly is a provisionally licensed professional counselor (PLPC) with a passion for working with individuals of all ages and diverse backgrounds. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology and went on to complete her Master’s in Counseling at the University of Central Missouri in 2019. Kelly has gained valuable experience in various mental health settings throughout the Kansas City area since graduating. Her professional journey includes providing case management support to adults facing a range of mental health challenges.
For the past several years,
has served as a school counselor in the Raytown School District, working to provide various forms of support to elementary students and their families. She has also worked in a middle school behavioral skills program aimed at assisting students who require additional support outside of traditional classroom settings.
Kelly is Level II Gottman method trained. In session, Kelly is committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges openly. She employs a client-centered approach, drawing from her training in counseling to tailor interventions that meet the unique needs of each individual. She warmly invites clients to embark on their journey towards healing and personal development, offering a space where they can explore, reflect, and move forward with greater confidence and resilience.
Outside of her work, Kelly enjoys traveling, reading, baseball (go Cardinals!) and playing both video and board games. She also loves to spend time cooking and hanging out with her family.
Kelly is being supervised by Amber Dealy, LPC, LCPC. She works with children, adolescents and adults, ages 10 and up. Kelly will accept clients using Aetna, and Cigna benefits as well as Private Pay. She is also in the credentialing phase with Medicaid.
Alyssa Miley, Marriage and Family Therapist
Alyssa Miley, Marriage and Family Therapist
Alyssa Miley, Marriage and Family Therapist
Alyssa Miley graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelors in Psychology and a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy.
She is a certified Prepare and Enrich facilitator and has completed Gottman Level 1 training.
Alyssa is currently working towards her full license and is under the Supervision of Dr. Betsy Henderson a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist, ID:2020002712.
Alyssa is passionate in helping Couples, Families, and Individuals through distressing times.
Alyssa strives to create a safe space for people to be able to explore their emotions and to give support while going through wanted change.
She works to create individualized treatment plans based off the needs of each person entering her care as she believes all needs are different for each and every person.
She works with children, adolescents and adults.
Alyssa will accept clients using Aetna, and Cigna benefits as well as Private Pay. She is also in the credentialing phase with Medicaid.
Rachel Feild, LCSW
Alyssa Miley, Marriage and Family Therapist
Alyssa Miley, Marriage and Family Therapist
Rachel Feild is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas who believes in using an authentic, compassionate approach to meet her clients where they are at and to begin healing. Rachel received her Bachelors of Psychology from the University of Kansas and a Masters of Social Work from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Rachel has over 10 years of experience in social services including volunteering for the National Suicide Prevention Line (NSPL), working with adults with severe and persistent mental illness in a community mental health setting, and a wide variety of child welfare experience as a member of the National Child Welfare Workforce Institute (NCWWI) program during graduate school and during her previous role as a forensic interviewer and therapist at a Children’s Advocacy Center. Rachel has been able to provide a safe space for hundreds of children to talk about the trauma they have experienced and has worked with children and adults of all ages and many diverse backgrounds throughout her career. Rachel utilizes a humanistic, holistic, strengths-based approach to help clients realize their full potential and to empower clients to overcome barriers. Rachel works with children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing any of life’s challenges including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and trauma. When working with children and adolescents, Rachel believes in incorporating families and systems to be able to create a sustainable change. Rachel utilizes modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), SandTray Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Rachel always strives to foster genuine connections and to provide the best services individualized to her client’s unique needs.
In Rachel’s free time, she loves to eat delicious food, thrift, travel, walk her dog, and spend time with her family and friends.
Rachel is in network with Aetna, BCBS, UHC, Cigna, Tricare and Optum.
Brittany Normand, BA, Master's in Child and Adolescents, Student Intern
Christopher Carpenter, Chief Financial Officer, CPS, Administrative Support Staff
Brittany Normand, BA, Master's in Child and Adolescents, Student Intern
My name is Brittany Normand and I am an intern working towards a Master's in Child and Adolescents Degree through Avila University. I graduated with my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, concentrating in Mental Health, from Avila University in 2023.
During my undergraduate years, I completed my practicum at Empowering Parents KC where I got to see a variety of clients and ages, eventually finding my passion working with children and adolescents.
Working with children and adolescents has always been a passion of mine. I also enjoy reading, listening to music, and my family in my free time"
Brittany is being supervised by Amber Dealy, LPC, LCPC. She works with children, adolescents and young adults, ages 3 - 25
Clayton Titkemeier, Master's in Counseling Psychology, Student Intern
Christopher Carpenter, Chief Financial Officer, CPS, Administrative Support Staff
Brittany Normand, BA, Master's in Child and Adolescents, Student Intern
I am a Master’s student at the University of Avila pursuing a degree in Counseling Psychology and am expected to complete the program by December of 2025. I studied Psychology and Sociology at the University of Kansas before spending two years working for the Division of Youth Services in Missouri. For two years, I spent my evenings working with troubled teenagers from all over
north-western Missouri providing trauma informed care and individualized treatment plans for those who I directly advocated for.
My time in the Division of Youth Services taught me that one person can be the difference in changing someone’s life for the better. My adventure of becoming a counselor is driven by seeing positive progress made in the lives of those that I help. Working together, I aim to harness the strengths within you to better your
well-being. You deserve to live a life full of happiness, and I hope to help you work towards this."
I have experiences working with youth who have experienced:
● Complex Trauma
● Sexual Abuse
● Physical Abuse
● Grief/Loss of Loved Ones
● Gun Violence
● Substance Abuse
● Extreme Poverty
● Neglect
Clayton is being supervised by Dianna Obermueller, BS, LMSW
Christopher Carpenter, Chief Financial Officer, CPS, Administrative Support Staff
Christopher Carpenter, Chief Financial Officer, CPS, Administrative Support Staff
Christopher Carpenter, Chief Financial Officer, CPS, Administrative Support Staff
Chris Carpenter is a dedicated professional specializing in life and coping skills, men’s issues, addiction recovery, and physical health and wellness.
With years of personal recovery experience, Chris is passionate about helping others find their path to sustainable healing and growth.
As a key member of the Authentic Life team in Kansas City, MO, Chris collaborates closely with therapists to provide individual peer coaching across a wide range of life situations. He serves as an initial point of contact for those reaching out to Authentic Life, skillfully assessing their needs and connecting them with the most suitable therapist.
Outside of work, Chris maintains a healthy lifestyle by hitting the gym, indulging in reading, and leading life groups within his faith community. He also enjoys attending live music shows alongside his wife.
Serina Campos, Administrative Support Staff
Serina Campos, Administrative Support Staff
Christopher Carpenter, Chief Financial Officer, CPS, Administrative Support Staff
Serina is a dedicated advocate for mental health and is passionate about her own wellness journey.
As the first point of contact at our KC, MO location, she assists clients with all intake paperwork and ensures they are placed with the appropriate psychotherapist based on their needs.
Serina has completed peer specialist training with the state of Missouri to better understand the needs of clients reaching out for services.
In her free time, she enjoys playing video games, spending time with family, volunteering for various non-profits, and loving on her fur baby, Onyx.
Authentic Life Clinical Counseling & Wellness is a Proud Member of
