Graduate counseling interns

Brittany roberts

Hi! I am Brittany Roberts, a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern at the Heritage Institute. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from Appalachian State University with a minor in sociology. I am pursuing my graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University.

While my specialization is working with children and adolescents, I am passionate about working with people of all ages. I believe that therapy can help everyone, whether you see your problems as big or small, and that everyone has the potential to reach their goals with the proper support. I look forward to meeting you and seeing what we can accomplish together!

JESSICA CROWN

I am Jessica Crown, a Graduate Student Intern at Heritage Institute, currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from Colorado Christian University. As an Army veteran and military spouse, I am deeply passionate about supporting military families and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

My therapeutic approach is relationship-centered, grounded in the belief that healing occurs within safe and supportive connections. I work from a systemic perspective, considering the many relationships and environments, such as family, culture, and community, that shape each person’s life. By exploring patterns, values, and themes within these systems, I aim to help clients gain deeper insight, strengthen relationships, and foster meaningful, lasting change.

EVA Lewandowski

I received my Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology from North Greenville University, and am currently pursuing an Education Specialist (Ed.S) degree in Counselor Education, with a concentration in marriage, couples, and family counseling, from the University of South Carolina. My personal and academic journey has fueled my passion for walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges.

Experiencing life means facing both joys and hardships. Among the wounds and hurts that often accompany challenging situations, the hope for healing and reconciliation can quickly start to feel out of reach. I hold a deep desire to help people rediscover hope within their circumstances and pursue healing within themselves and their relationships. As a marriage and family therapy intern, I practice a collaborative and client-centered approach, creating a safe, non-judgmental, and comfortable space for growth and change.

SYDNEY FLOYD

Life can be challenging — it’s just a fact! On any given day, we’re navigating demands from family, friends, work, and more. This can feel overwhelming and, at times, scary. But having “cracks” does not mean that we are broken — it simply means that we are human.

Hi! My name is Sydney Floyd, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapy intern at Heritage Institute. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice from Clemson University, and I am a current graduate student at Capella University. I believe that every person has intrinsic value and a story that deserves to be heard. I am passionate about working with individuals from all walks of life and creating a non-judgmental and supportive space for growth and healing.

Our first experience with the world is through our family and I am especially focused on helping individuals, couples, and families explore their relational dynamics and understand how their past shapes their present. My favorite phrase is, “We are meant to do life together”, and it is my honor to walk alongside you as you journey toward health, happiness, and connection

Mckenzie schlarb

Life is a series of dips and turns, and it can be hard to carry alone. We might experience big emotions that feel heavy and difficult to manage without support. Seeking help takes courage, and I want to honor you for taking this step toward healing and self-understanding.

I’m McKenzie Schlarb, a Graduate Counseling Intern at Heritage Institute. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Anderson University. I am passionate about walking alongside individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences as they navigate challenges, rediscover hope, and reconnect with their sense of purpose.

My approach to counseling is warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I believe that healing begins in a safe space where you can show up authentically and be fully seen and known. Whether you’re facing life transitions, emotional overwhelm, or a sense of disconnection, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where growth and self-compassion can take root.

Together, we will explore your story, uncover your strengths, and build tools that help you move toward a more fulfilling and balanced life. You don’t have to carry it alone. I look forward to walking this journey with you.

RACHEL SHOPPY

My name is Rachel Shoppy and I am an LPC graduate intern here at Heritage. I am currently getting my master's in mental health counseling from Liberty University and will be graduating in 2026. I am passionate about helping others find healing in the midst of life’s uncertainty and aim to create a space of safety, honesty, and encouragement. Whether you are navigating a tough relationship, processing grief, or working through life’s daily challenges, I am here to support you. Through a cognitive behavioral and person centered approach I believe that our thoughts and actions are connected, and that focusing on one's strengths can be a powerful tool in the healing process.

After walking through my own season of seeking therapy and working through grief, anxiety, and trauma, I know how intimidating and vulnerable taking this step can be. From my own personal journey, I am more confident than ever that having someone walk alongside you in your human experience is valuable and transformative. I truly look forward to meeting and working with you!

Andurina Sickinger

Hi! My name is Andurina Sickinger, and I am a graduate counseling intern at Heritage Institute. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee in 2019. Before pursuing my graduate studies, I served six years in the military, where I developed resilience, discipline, and a deep appreciation for human connection. Through my military experience, I developed strong communication skills and a deeper understanding of empathy and respect, which I strive to embody in my counseling practice. Two years ago, I felt called to return to school at Northcentral University, where I am currently working toward my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy.

I have always had a heart for helping others and a passion for walking alongside those who are hurting. Being adopted from Guatemala and walking through my own journey of healing and growth inspired my desire to support others in finding hope and restoration. My counseling approach is person-centered, grounded in empathy, authenticity, and respect. I believe every individual is capable of healing and transformation, and my goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their stories, discover their strengths, and embrace lasting change.

CHARIS MILLER

Hello, my name is Charis, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapy Graduate Counseling Intern from Grand Canyon University. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, and I am passionate about walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges.

I believe one of the greatest gifts we have in life is the opportunity to learn from others and share in each other’s journeys. My heart is to pour into the lives of my community by creating a safe, collaborative space where people feel truly seen, heard, and valued.

As a therapist, I approach the counseling process as a partnership. I believe healing and growth happen best when we work together by drawing on your strengths, experiences, and values while exploring new ways of moving forward. Whether you are facing relational struggles, personal challenges, or simply seeking growth, I am committed to walking with you toward clarity, resilience, and hope.

TRISTIN JUDD

Hi! My name is Tristin Judd, and I am a Clinical Mental Health Graduate Intern here at Heritage. I proudly hold a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health Science with an Emphasis in Trauma and I will graduate in 2026 with my master’s degree as an LPC after my internship has been fulfilled. Prior to graduate school, I served my community as a 911 EMT-B, where I was able to truly walk alongside those who were in crisis and comfort them in the midst of their suffering.

I do not just have a passion for helping people; I truly see it as my calling and a unique opportunity to change the lives of hurting people. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment as I exhort my clients and empower them to have best quality of life that they can achieve.

My professional background and personal values have equipped me with the knowledge and tools to come alongside my clients as they face life’s inevitable challenges. I approach counseling and mental health in general as an ongoing, highly collaborative and client-centered process and one where I can help my clients develop the coping mechanisms and other skills to heal and grow; skills that will stick with them, even long after our time together has ended. I believe that restoration happens through intentional, nonjudgemental relationships combined with practical intervention. I genuinely cannot wait to share this journey with you!

MAGGIE ADAMSON

Hi, I’m Maggie Adamson. I am currently a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling through Grand Canyon University, and I am passionate about walking alongside individuals on their healing journey. Through my own personal experiences with mental health, I have developed a deep desire to help others find the same healing and hope I have experienced. I approach counseling from a Christian worldview, believing that true healing involves the whole person (mind, body, and spirit) and that every individual is worthy of compassion, dignity, and hope. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and valued.

My areas of interest include betrayal and childhood trauma, anxiety, and depression. I believe growth and restoration are possible, and I am committed to offering empathy, grace, and understanding as clients work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I live in the Greenville area with my husband, our two children, and two energetic pups. I am a stay-at-home mom and am currently navigating the rewarding journey of homeschooling our children as they tackle 4th and 5th grade. Family life plays an important role in shaping my perspective and deepening the compassion I bring into my work.

In my free time, I enjoy taking walks, spending time with family and friends, baking, playing board games, and traveling. While I have visited many places around the world, my favorite place will always be the ocean.

RAYCHEL PANTON

JENNIFER SIMPSON

Every person has inherent worth, dignity, and purpose. Sometimes we lose sight of who we are and where we are going. Through my personal encounters with grief, pain, and suffering, I have found great healing through connection with compassionate people skilled and gifted with holding sacred space. I aspire to enter into therapeutic relationships as a wounded healer and consider it a great privilege to meet with others in a safe, exploratory, confidential space. This sacred space is a place where our past can be explored, which can help make sense of where we are today, and hope can be built as we envision a brighter future more aligned with our values, strengths, and wisdom gained along the way.

As a Marriage & Family Therapist Graduate Intern, I work with individuals, couples, and families while under supervision. This means that although my supervisors aren’t physically in the room with us, my clients receive care from multiple professionals committed to providing the highest standard of care, which includes evidence-based practices, trauma-informed care, and a collaborative, client-centered approach. I have been providing care for clients since February 2025 and my anticipated graduation from Kairos University is January 2027.

I was raised in a multi-cultural, military family and am a mother of four children (of which 2 are adults!). My faith, experiences and training have equipped me to come alongside others who are looking for a calm, stabilizing presence during trying times. I offer a free 15-minute consultation and am happy to help you take your next step toward healing.