Our Mission
At Midwest Counseling Services, we understand accessing mental health services can be difficult for all of us, especially the elderly population. We exclusively work with elderly patients in nursing homes and senior communities. Elders can experience many challenges that can impact their mental health, including loss of independence, physical challenges, chronic pain, grief, cognitive changes, and financial concerns. Prioritizing mental health can help us enjoy life more, stay connected to our friends and family, and benefit our overall physical health.
Meet The Team
Lisa Harrison, LSCSW
As a dedicated clinical social worker, Lisa is committed to supporting the emotional wellbeing and mental health of older adults. With a deep passion for working with the geriatric population, Lisa brings extensive experience and empathy to every therapeutic encounter. Before starting Midwest Counseling Services, Lisa had a career in social work for over 20 years.
Specializing in psychotherapy for seniors, Lisa employs a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment to meet the unique needs and concerns of each individual. With a focus on fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, she creates a supportive environment where seniors feel heard, valued, and understood.
With an understanding of the challenges and transitions that come with aging, Lisa helps clients navigate issues such as grief, loss, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and caregiver stress. Through compassionate listening, evidence-based interventions, and collaborative goal-setting, Lisa empowers seniors to enhance their resilience, cope effectively with challenges, and live more fulfilling lives.
In addition to providing direct therapy, Lisa also advocates for seniors' rights and access to mental health services for clients who reside in senior living communities. Lisa is committed to promoting awareness and understanding of the unique mental health needs of older adults, both within the healthcare field and the broader community. With her warmth, expertise, and genuine dedication to improving the lives of seniors, Lisa is a trusted ally and advocate for older adults seeking support and healing on their mental health journey.
Robert Miller, LMSW, CDP, DCS
Robert is a native of Wichita, Kansas. He completed his education at Wichita State University, including a bachelor’s and master’s in social work with an emphasis in healthcare. In fact, he is extremely honored to be part of the first graduating class of-the-then newly founded WSU Master of Social Work program, 2001.
Totaling 25 years of professional service, he has worked in a full continuum of healthcare, including acute hospital settings, community medicine like home health and hospice, as well as the long-term care arena, specifically dementia care. The accumulation of experiences has led to his understanding of the unique and special needs of the aging and their families.
Today, he has come full circle, sharing his personal and professional experiences as a proud alumni and faculty member of WSU’s College of Health Professions, Public Health Sciences department, and Aging program, while also consulting on the development of aging programs for the university. If that was not enough, he is in the process of completing an LSCSW (Clinical License in Social Work) under the supervision of Lisa Harrison, Midwest Counseling Services, LLC. His focus is geriatrics, working with clients and families maneuvering the challenges of aging.
Robert has often answered the call to serve, sitting on various local and state boards. He is the co-founder and former Chair of the State Alzheimer’s Conference, once the 3rd largest in the country. His passion for giving back and advocating for change in his community led to the honor of being asked to sit on the Governor’s Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Task Force in 2019. He continues to give of his time to various local organizations while pursuing his passion for working with the aging population, their caregivers, and all the joys that come with aging.
Gail Kinzer, LMSW
I have been a practicing social worker since 1996. From working with individuals with traumatic brain injuries early in my career to being both a school social worker and a medical social worker in the home health field for 23 years, the professional journey I've enjoyed has provided me with tremendous opportunities to learn about and appreciate a rich tapestry of both youth and aging-related experiences and challenges. If I had to identify one common thread that has permeated my career until now, it would be that I always seem to learn as much from the individuals I've been blessed to work with as they learn from working with me.
My experience working as a medical social worker in the home health field has consistently illustrated a significant need for mental health support services for the aging population, particularly those living in facilities such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities and other residential long-term care arrangements. I'm now looking forward to a new focus in my career, as I begin the process of providing clinical social work services to individuals who can benefit from having opportunities for mental health support services brought to them.
Allison L Schulte, LSCSW
Allison L Schulte, LSCSW provides therapy to adults struggling with depression, anxiety, cognitive impairments (Dementia, Alzheimer’s), personality disorders, grief and loss, overwhelming stress, relationship issues, social/emotional issues, and family relationships. She received her undergraduate and master's in social work degrees from Wichita State University. Allison utilizes a variety of treatment methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, play therapy, strengths-based perspective, and mindfulness-based therapy. Allison has experience working within the mental health field for over 10+ years giving her the knowledge and skills to identify effective ways to help you address your needs and find hope and peace even in the most challenging situations.
Joanna Short, LMSW
I have been practicing Social Work since 1992 when I received my undergraduate degrees from Kansas State University in Social Work/Human Development and Family Studies. I received my Master's in Social Work from Wichita State University in 2010.
I started my career at the Kansas Department of Children and Family Services investigating abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults. I also have experience working in the Kansas foster care system, family preservation, and adoption. I have spent the last ten years working as a Hospice Medical Social Worker, assisting individuals and families in making end-of-life decisions, responding to mental health needs, and making referrals to community resources. My primary experience -- and the most rewarding part of my
career -- has been working with the older population.
Ashley Keller, LMSW
Ashley is a Licensed Master Social Worker with over twenty years of experience in human services. She specializes in providing compassionate therapy to older adults navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, cognitive impairments, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues, and family dynamics.
Ashley earned her undergraduate degree in Rehabilitation Services Education from Emporia State University and her Master of Social Work degree from The University of Kansas. Her extensive background in human services, particularly with individuals with disabilities and older adults, informs her empathetic and comprehensive approach to therapy.
In her current practice, Ashley is committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their full selves, discover their personal power, and make positive changes in their lives. Her approach to therapy is rooted in the humanistic perspective, evaluating and supporting individuals as unique, whole beings rather than focusing on just one aspect of their experience. She utilizes a variety of treatment methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy.
Jessica Hankins, LMSW, LMAC
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Licensed Master Addiction Counselor (LMAC) in Kansas. My passion for working with older adults started when I volunteered at a skilled nursing home in 2011. I have since worked as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in both home health and skilled nursing facilities across Kansas and Oklahoma before pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW) at Oklahoma University. From this, I recognize the challenges often faced by the older populations.
My style of therapy is collaborative, where you are seen as the expert on your life, and your values are set as the foundation of our work together. I believe strongly that it is important that I maintain the ability to see different perspectives, which better enables me to meet people where they are. I focus on adjusting to life changes, compensatory strategies, strengths-based perspective, MI, DBT, and CBT.
I individually customize treatment plans that are most effective for creating change and helping patients achieve their goals. I work primarily with older adults struggling with phase of life problems such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and grief.
Ultimately, therapy can lead to greater self-awareness, self-esteem, and most importantly, a more fulfilling life. Let’s work together to find hope and create positive change in your life.
Carrie Osgood-Franklin, LMSW, LAC
Carrie is a dedicated social worker with nearly 20 years of experience in the social services field. She holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Wichita State University and a Master of Social Work degree from Newman University. In addition to her extensive educational background, Carrie is a licensed addiction counselor, bringing specialized expertise to her work with individuals and communities. Throughout her career, she has been committed to providing compassionate and effective support, helping clients navigate challenges and achieve their personal goals.
Dawn Gadberry, LSCSW
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) and obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Wichita State University in 2006. I completed my bachelor’s in psychology with an emphasis on research from Southwestern College in 2004.
I have over 23 years of experience working with individuals of all ages and have been a licensed clinician for 18 years. I began my career working as a Children’s Case Manager and devoted years to working with survivors of domestic violence in addition to investigating abuse, neglect and truancy. A tremendous amount of experience was gained while working at Hutchinson Correctional Facility as well as Hutchinson Regional Medical Center on the Behavioral Unit focusing on stabilizing individuals utilizing brief and solution focused therapeutic interventions. I have spent the last 6 years at South Central Mental Health where I worked largely with the geriatric population and developed a passion for working with older adults and helping them and their families navigate changes later in life.
My areas of expertise include: stress management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, cognitive impairments (Dementia, Alzheimer’s) social/emotional issues, helping people heal from trauma, building self-worth, improving communication, and reaching their goals in both individual and group settings. I utilize a variety of evidenced-based therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, strengths-based interventions, and mindfulness-based therapy.
I believe that building positive relationships and working together are key to mental wellness. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you know you are heard and can grow and show resilience through overcoming challenges.
Rachel Fortney, LSCSW
Rachel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) and Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC). With a master’s degree in social work from Wichita State University and 18 years of experience in the social services field, she brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her work.
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Recognizing the remarkable ability of individuals to cope, strive, and thrive through life's challenges, Rachel acknowledges that there are moments when we all need a little extra support. In these times, seeking assistance from others can be immensely beneficial. For 18 years, Rachel has been guiding individuals through difficulties in a therapeutic capacity. She uses a range of treatment modalities including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy and mindfulness-based therapy.
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She is naturally curious about people's unique strengths and struggles and finds great satisfaction in developing strategies to help them navigate and overcome their challenges. She is privileged to aid in the journey to healing.
Shawnta Smith, LMSW, QMHP
Shawnta is a native of Wichita, Kansas. She completed her Bachelor of
Social Work degree at Wichita State University in 2012, obtaining a minor in Psychology. She earned her Master's of Social Work at Indiana Wesleyan University in 2018.
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Shawnta is a licensed therapist and qualified mental health professional
with over 10 years of experience working with individuals from various backgrounds and in various settings, including schools, long-term care,
acute inpatient geriatric psychiatric care, middle-aged adults, and adolescents. She is trained in Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She utilizes a strength-based approach to therapy, focusing on clients’ strengths and abilities to help them reach their goals. Shawnta aims to create a safe space for clients to work through their challenges and build resilience.
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Shawnta is passionate about mental health awareness and strives to normalize the conversation around mental health. She believes that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and actively works to end the stigma associated with mental health and receiving treatment.
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She is the Founder/Owner of The A.R.T. Project (Aware. Reach. Teach), which provides community aid, mental health support, and suicide prevention education. The A.R.T. Project was created to honor the life of a beloved family member, Arthur, affectionately known as Art. After losing him to suicide, she wanted to create something meaningful to celebrate his memory and to help others who have suffered in silence with the challenges of mental health. This project aims to raise awareness, inspire hope, and remind everyone that they are not alone.
Carly Wills, LCMFT
Carly is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT). She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in Sociology, at Wichita State University and her Master of Science in Family Therapy at Friends University. She has experience working in various mental health settings including primary care clinics, community mental health, and private practice. Her passion for working with older adults started in elementary school when she volunteered at a local assisted living facility and for a local hospice organization in college.
Carly is dedicated to helping individuals overcome the challenges of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, cognitive impairments, family dynamics, life transitions, and relationship issues. She utilizes a variety of treatment methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
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Carly strives to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered to heal and grow. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered, compassionate, and non-judgmental. She believes that everyone deserves to feel heard and understood. Carly's goal is to empower clients, and their families, with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
Kayla Hiebert, LMSW
Kayla holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Bethel College in North Newton, KS, and a Masters of Social Work from Newman University in Wichita, KS. She has a wide variety of experience and over fifteen years of practicing social work. Her experience includes foster care, adoption, hospital social work – specifically geriatric psychiatry and hospice, and skilled nursing/long-term care.
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In her position as a social worker in skilled nursing and long-term care, Kayla balances providing empathy with guiding clients and families through some of the most difficult decisions of their lives. She has a passion for advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations, including the elderly, and also seeks to assist clients to attain their highest quality of life and maintain dignity.
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Kayla is currently working towards her LSCSW. The emphasis of her master's program was Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She also utilizes solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and a strengths-based approach. Kayla was inspired to further her education and experience after one of her close friends took her life. She seeks to build a rapport with clients that allows them to share their most vulnerable thoughts, feelings, and fears and ultimately strengthen their mental health and overall quality of life.
Lueata Evenson, LSCSW
Lueata received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in social work through Wichita State University, earning her Bachelor’s degree in 2004. While working toward her Master’s, her professional experience was largely focused on the homeless population, followed by work with children and families. After earning her Master’s degree, she gained employment as a Medical Social Worker with Hospice. She continued working in Hospice while completing her LSCSW in Texas in 2016. Lueata has been a clinical therapist for nine years.
With 20 years of experience dedicated to helping others, Lueata has worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including various ages, races, educational levels, cultures, and religious beliefs. Her work has included individual, family, and group settings, all of which she has thoroughly enjoyed. Over the past four years, she has specialized in working with the geriatric population and adults with intellectual disabilities, an area she has found to be her true calling.
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Lueata's areas of expertise include working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, communication skills, boundary setting, self-worth, self-esteem building, and family dynamics—whatever that may mean for each individual. She utilizes active listening, compassion, empathy, and validation, along with a variety of evidence-based therapeutic interventions. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy. She emphasizes strengths-based interventions and motivational interviewing to support her clients.
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Lueata believes that everyone has something unique that sets them apart. Her goal is to help individuals recognize their own self-worth by providing a safe, supportive environment where they feel heard and validated.
Misha Bender, Administrative Assistant
