Therapist Biographies

Ashley Lanier MA, LCMHC, LCASA she/her

In 2012, Ashley earned her Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Mount Olive, followed by a Master's Degree in Human Services Addictions and Recovery in 2014 and a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling in 2017, both from Liberty University. With over a decade of experience as a first responder and current certification as a Paramedic in North Carolina, Ashley brings a diverse background to her practice.

For four years, she worked at Vidant Duplin Behavior Health, contributing to case management, group therapy, crisis intervention, and treatment development. Ashley offers a range of therapeutic services, including individual, family, couples, and group counseling, catering to adults, children (above the age of 6), and adolescents.

Central to Ashley's therapeutic approach is the belief that the counseling process is a collaborative alliance, with clients considered experts in their own lives. Within this framework, clients can access their inner strengths to promote positive change. Ashley employs various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Educational Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Reality Therapy.

With a background as a paramedic, she possesses a unique perspective that enriches her work with clients facing past trauma, first responders, and individuals with personality disorders. Ashley has dedicated her career to assisting military professionals, police officers, firefighters, and fellow paramedics in managing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), drawing from her own firsthand experiences in emergency services.

Specializing in a diverse range of mental health concerns, Ashley focuses on helping clients navigate and overcome challenges related to depression, anxiety, substance use, and grief/loss/trauma. Her approach is holistic, addressing not only the immediate symptoms but also the underlying issues that contribute to clients' struggles. Ashley is particularly adept at guiding adults through major life transitions, recognizing the impact these changes can have on mental well-being.

A cornerstone of Ashley's therapeutic philosophy is her commitment to practicing with positive unconditional regard. She prioritizes creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely. By fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding, Ashley encourages individuals to open up and engage in the therapeutic process with trust and confidence.

Having worked in the challenging environment of a mental hospital for several years, Ashley gained exposure to a multitude of mental health disorders. This experience has honed her clinical skills and deepened her understanding of the complexities individuals face in managing their mental health. Her versatility is evident in her work with both children and adults, showcasing her ability to tailor therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs of diverse populations.

Ashley's dedication extends beyond conventional therapeutic practice. Recognizing the need for specialized knowledge, she has invested time in learning about autism to better serve the autistic community. This commitment reflects her inclusive approach, ensuring that individuals on the autism spectrum receive the understanding and support necessary for their mental health and well-being.

Her theoretical perspective emphasizes the client's control over their counseling experience, helping them discern aspects of their life that are within their control and those that are not. Ashley encourages clients to actively engage in the therapeutic relationship, expecting effort in homework, accountability, and full participation. As a counselor, her goal is to create a safe environment for exploring clients' primary interests, establishing goals, and identifying strengths and assets as they work towards their aspirations.

Ashley specializes in various areas of treatment, providing support in:

• ADHD/Autism

• Personality Disorders

• Domestic violence

• Parent/Child or Partner Relational Problems

•Relationship problems

• Suicidal ideation and other acute problems

• Substance abuse/addictions

• Obsessions and Compulsions

• PTSD/first responder/military

• LGBTQ

• Anxiety Disorders

• Physical, Sexual, Emotional Abuse

• Anger and Stress Management

Dr Kimberly Outlaw

Dr. Outlaw is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate in North Carolina providing individual therapy to ages 12-59, focusing on young adults, adolescents, young parents, and adults. She has over 10 years of experience in outpatient therapy, medical settings, and community mental health. Through these experiences, she has worked with many populations from various walks of life. Everyone’s journey is unique. What works for one person might not necessarily work for you. Dr. Outlaw can help you begin the process to improve your emotional health no matter where you are in life. Dr. Outlaw also specializes in working with youth, and collegiate athletes. She is committed to empowering her clients with the tools, training, and knowledge they need to perform optimally day in and day out. Through the use of evidence-based strategies, she is able to help her clients with a variety of performance skills ranging from mindset and motivation to improving focus and concentration, handling performance errors, imagery, developing confidence and mental toughness.

Connie Nelson, LCSW

Connie considers herself semi-retired. She continues to work on a part-time basis because she loves working with people. Over the past fifty years, she has been a clinician, program manager, clinic director, and supervisor for master’s level staff who are working toward licensure. She has also been an adjunct field instructor at several schools of social work. She received her Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri in 1969.

Connie’s clients include children, adolescents, families and adults. She has extensive training in treating childhood trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) which includes EMDR and TF-CBT, both evidence-based treatment modalities. Connie has worked in community mental health settings, school social work, nursing homes, acute care hospitals, inpatient psychiatric facilities, child and family agencies, community health, mental health advocacy organizations, and private practice. She utilizes a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, DBT, Psychoeducation, Play Therapy, behavior modification, and mindfulness and relaxation.

Connie believes in working in partnership with clients to utilize their strengths to help them sort out their challenges and achieve their goals. She also realizes how important it is to identify all aspects of an individual’s life that impact their well-being including their physical health, support systems (family, friends, etc.), work or school environment, and faith/spirituality in this process. 

Shanice Ruffin, LCSW

Shanice Ruffin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Grief Counselor. Her professional experience includes outpatient therapy for children and adolescents, clinical assessments, case consultations and referrals for services.

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Shanice specializes in working with children, adolescents and young adults navigating identity, esteem, and the high school and collegiate journey. She has specialized training in grief and brings a unique approach to children experiencing loss. Additionally, Shanice has worked with young people experiencing anxious or depressed moods, exploring their goals, feelings, attention, concerns, and being overwhelmed.  Her treatment modalities are as follows: Cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, strengths-based therapy and grief counseling.

Shanice is a passionate advocate for child and family health, racial equity, and bringing high quality prevention and trauma-informed services and solutions for some of the most pressing issues facing vulnerable children, families, and communities.

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Shanice attended Fayetteville State University where she earned Bachelor and Master of Social Work degrees. She has held clinical positions at Pride in North Carolina, Wayne and Lenoir County Department of Social Services, and Kitty Askins Hospice Center.

Latacho Barrett, LCSW-A, LCAS-A

In 2015 Latacho obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Winston – Salem State University. In 2022, Latacho was a Magna Cum Laude graduate from North Carolina Central University, where she obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work. Latacho Barrett is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCASA). Latacho specialize in providing comprehensive mental health support, focusing on areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Latacho use a tailor approach to meet you where you are, recognizing that each individual's journey is unique. Whether you're facing mental health concerns, relationship challenges, life transitions, or other issues, Latacho provides a safe, empathetic, and judgment-free space for self-exploration. A safe space is created for individuals to explore their challenges and work towards meaningful solutions.

Latacho is a therapist with a deep commitment to inclusivity, embracing individuals from diverse backgrounds. She adopts a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Latacho’s practice is founded on the belief that true healing involves addressing the individual as a whole. She strives to create a therapeutic environment that is culturally sensitive, affirming, and inclusive. By understanding the unique experiences and perspectives of each client, she utilize a tailored approach to meet clients specific needs.

Drawing from evidence-based practices, Latacho specialize in cutting-edge treatment modalities, staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field of mental health. Her goal is to empower clients by integrating evidence-based practices, mindfulness techniques, and collaborative goal-setting into the therapeutic journey. 

Latacho’s expertise extends to addressing common mental health concerns, helping individuals develop coping strategies and resilience in the face of life's complexities. With a commitment to ongoing learning and a genuine passion for supporting others, she provides guidance on your journey to improved mental well-being. 

Latacho is committed to guiding others along the wonderful journey of healing and self-discovery. Whether you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, improved self-care, ADHD, or substance use concerns, she aims to guide and empower you with the tools and insights needed to navigate life's obstacles and create lasting positive changes. The goal is to work together to foster healing from within and navigate a path towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Asia Morrison, PMHNP

Asia Morrison is a Goldsboro native board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She has worked in the mental health field since 2018 including inpatient settings gaining experience over a variety of ages and conditions. She graduated from East Carolina University with her BSN in December 2017 then started her career as a registered nurse in the mental health field. Seeing firsthand the mental health crisis that transpired around the COVID-19 pandemic in Wayne County pushed her to return to school to further her education. She received both her MSN from Walden University and ANCC PMHNP Certification in 2023. She is excited to be able to make a positive contribution to the community’s mental health where she was raised in a military family. Asia loves to support each client in establishing individualized goals and empowering each client to move towards those goals at their own comfortable pace.