Our Staff
At Mental Pain and Trauma Centers, our expert clinicians are trained to meet your needs.
CEO and Founder – Dr. Jeremy Cassius has a wealth of experience
A graduate of the Forensic Psychology PhD program at Walden University, Dr. Jeremy Cassius has a wealth of experience with diagnosing and treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety , and Depression. From 2009-2013, he served as the Executive Director of PLAN of North Texas Inc, an agency offering lifetime supportive services to clients with severe mental illnesses like Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia. He is licensed to practice in Texas and Ohio.
Following his position at PLAN, Dr. Cassius began conducting Forensic Mental Assessments for clients of Immigration attorneys, Probate attorneys, Family attorneys, and Personal Injury attorneys.
Dr. Cassius saw that there was a need to work with the clients of personal injury attorneys. “I saw many people affected by severe trauma and head injuries…they need our help.” For this reason, Dr. Cassius founded the Mental Pain and Trauma Centers to realize the unmet need of clients who suffer trauma from a life threatening event.
Jessica L. Tylicki, Ph.D, Director of Psychological Evaluation Services
Jessica Tylicki earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Kent State University. Her education concentrated on assessment psychology, including the development and validation of test methods for identifying individual differences in adult clinical outpatients and inpatients, undergraduate students, criminal defendants, and personal injury litigants. Dr. Tylicki has written over eleven published papers and book chapters, several of which are first authored, on the utility of personality and psychopathology measures. She has also served as a peer reviewer for various assessment-focused psychology journals. Furthermore, Dr. Tylicki is currently an adjunct professor in the psychology department at Florida Atlantic University.
Clinically, Dr. Tylicki has specialized training in neuropsychological assessment, which she uses to determine the impact of age and diseases in brain functions and behaviors. She completed a one-year postdoctoral fellowship at a neurology institute in South Florida, where she conducted
over 360 assessments for adults with mild and major neurocognitive disorders as well as mental health disorders. Most recently, Dr. Tylicki has worked in private practice, where she examined the neuropsychological functioning of geriatric patients.
Ari Margolies, Assistant Director of Psychological Evaluation Services
Ari received his master’s degree in clinical psychology from Columbia University, where he solidified his passion for helping people suffering from psychological trauma and traumatic brain injuries. Before joining MPTC, he worked with individuals with Substance Use Disorder and schizophrenia in healthcare settings in New York City. When not working, Ari can be found reading or competing in triathlons.
Dr. Kimberly Rood has over eight years of experience in the mental health field. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Texas A&M, a masters degree in counseling from Texas state university and a PhD in health psychology from North Central University.
Dr. Rood takes a client-centered approach, as she believes everyone deserves to be respected and heard. She specializes in mental health assessments and evaluations. Dr. Rood is a military spouse of fifteen years. Her hobbies include reading, CrossFit and playing with her three children.
Dr. Anna Lauer Roy, PsyD, LP, LPC
Dr. Anna Lauer Roy is a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned a Bachelor of Art degree in Foreign Languages from Fort Lewis College, a Master of Clinical Counseling degree from the University of Northern Colorado, and a Doctor of Psychology degree from California Southern University. She has fifteen years of experience working in the areas of mental health and family and child welfare in a variety of health care, clinical, and community settings. She has particular expertise in the area of trauma assessment and treatment. Anna is committed to psychology services that – while remaining objective per forensic psychology standards – is also person-centered, culturally-responsive, warm, and supportive of recovery and wellness.
When not doing this work as a psychologist that she loves, Anna also loves rambling through the mountains with her husband, playing music on her fiddle and mandolin, and admiring her extremely cute cat.
Dr. Jaylyn Shifrin is licensed Clinical Health Psychologist with expertise in the assessment and treatment of individuals living with chronic health conditions, such as chronic pain, insomnia, cancer, and organ failure. She has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia, a masters degree in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Florida and a doctoral degree in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Florida.
Dr. Shifrin uses a trauma-informed approach that centers around the unique needs of each client. She specializes in conducting mental health assessments and evaluations that support each client’s well-being and sense of empowerment and safety. Her hobbies include traveling with her husband, reading, and gardening.
Dr. Jordana Pepper earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University where she specialized in Forensic and Police and Public Safety Psychology. Her doctoral research focused on the mental health functioning of first responders and her clinical work focused on forensic, court ordered, psychological evaluations. Most recently, she has been employed as a forensic psychologist for the United States Department of Justice. Dr. Pepper specializes in psychological assessment and diagnostics and is licensed in Texas, Colorado, and has unrestricted authority to practice inter jurisdictional tele psychology. She is also undergoing a training program in psychopharmacology to become a prescribing psychologist in the state of Colorado.
When not working, Dr. Pepper loves to travel, loves all things Disney, and is a dedicated, full-time dog mom.
Stephanie Procell earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Forensics from Fielding Graduate University and completed her Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology and Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She is a licensed psychologist and has spent much of her career conducting psychological evaluations and providing mental health treatment to a wide variety of populations, including working with persons with a history of trauma, TBI, and/or chronic pain.
Dr. Procell has been involved in psychological research and has spoken on several panels discussing issues with mental health in corrections. She understands the difficult nature of opening up to a stranger during a psychological evaluation and strives to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. On a personal note, she fancies herself as an amateur photographer and is tall for her height.
Dr. Tripp is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in the assessment and treatment of individuals with various mental health conditions, including PTSD, addiction, depression, and stress. She received her doctorate from the University of Memphis and completed both her clinical internship and postdoctoral training at the University of California San Diego/VA San Diego Healthcare System. Dr. Tripp has published several peer-reviewed research articles and chapters on the topics of treatment for PTSD and addiction, and she is a strong believer that most mental health problems can be recovered from with the right tools and support.
While not working, you can find her outdoors, cooking, and spending time with her husband and two kids.
Dr. Niurka Santana is a bilingual (English/Spanish) former vocational evaluator, who holds a master’s degree in mental health counseling and a PhD. and Psy.D. degrees in clinical psychology, specializing in neuropsychology from Albizu University. She completed her internship and post-doctoral training through the University of Miami with rotations in brain injury, spinal cord injury and dementia. She has served as adjunct faculty at two universities teaching classes such as career development, research methodology, abnormal psychology and neuropsychological rehabilitation and has served as a broad member for the Florida Brain Injury Association and The Spinal Cord Injury Support Group. With over 20 years of experience, she has presented in numerous conferences, completed thousands of neuropsychological evaluations at her private practice in Sunrise, Florida and has privileges in a rehabilitation hospital where she often treats patients with head injuries, strokes and numerous medical conditions as well as assists in staff training. Dr. Santana specializes in neuropsychological testing, is licensed in Florida and has unrestricted authority to practice inter jurisdictional tele psychology.
Dr. David Juncos is a bilingual (English/Spanish) clinical psychologist with authority to practice tele-psychology for residents of 40 states, and Washington D.C. He earned his MA and PsyD degrees in Clinical Psychology from La Salle University, in Philadelphia. He has worked in the mental health field since 2002, and his clinical experiences include providing individual, couples, and group therapy to clients in private practice and community mental health settings, college counseling centers, and at substance abuse treatment centers where he worked extensively with clients who had co-occurring trauma-related and substance use disorders. Additionally, he has 15 years’ experience providing psychological evaluations for clients for confirmation of AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disorders, determination of hardship due to immigration issues, and obtaining diagnostic clarity for defendants undergoing criminal proceedings. He firmly believes the best psychological treatments occur when combining an empathic interpersonal style with the application of evidence-based approaches and an awareness of how one’s lived experiences impact their response to treatment. As an Associate Lecturer for the Voice Study Centre, UK, he also contributes to research on best practices for treating music performance anxiety and has published numerous peer-reviewed papers on the topic, including a co-authored book.
When not working, he loves spending time with his wife and daughter, exploring upstate New York, and attending live music in & around Philadelphia.
David Nathanson | Chief Development Officer
David Nathanson, Chief Revenue Officer is an experienced, dynamic executive with an innovative background in leadership, recruiting, sales, and business development. He is an exceptional communicator and connector with a demonstrated ability to energize and positively influence team members and clients. A skilled business strategist with an outstanding track record of proven success growing market share.
Janet Snyder, LCSW-S, Clinical Director
Janet has a Bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University in Social Work and a Master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington in Social Work.
Janet has worked with clients who have experienced a variety of traumatic events and helped those clients achieve healing. Janet uses different therapy models to meet the needs of each client individually. Janet has worked with children, teens, adults and elderly clients in many settings throughout her career. Janet is compassionate and open-minded in working with clients.
Janet feels that together with the client, healing can be achieved by building a trusting relationship and working together.
Throughout my over 19 years as a licensed mental health counselor, I have worked with many different populations, from children to seniors, in a variety of settings, to include inpatient, substance abuse residential treatment, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and the public school system. I have specialized experience working with individuals and groups with eating disorders, as well as those within the criminal justice system.
I also have significant experience with military service members and their families during intense times in our recent military history. My own years as a U.S. Marine Corps spouse have given me the ability to empathize with the challenges of this life, and I am eager to support our military families who face similar hardships. In addition, I enjoy working with couples as they attempt to resolve conflict and reconnect with one another. Whether the relationship has drifted apart over the years, there was a significant violation of trust, or a couple is looking for assistance as they amicably separate, I work with the different ‘parts’ of the relationship to facilitate healing.
I hold a M.Ed., LPC, LCDC
I work with marriage, family, couples, individuals, children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in counseling for anxiety, adhd, BPD, depression, grief, mood disorders, PTSD, sexual assault victims, and substance abuse.
Nayeli Morales has a Bachelors in Social Work from New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico and her Masters in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, TX. Nayeli is bilingual, speaking English and Spanish fluently. During her time at Our Lady of the Lake University, Nayeli focused on the Hispanic population. She has worked with children and teens as well as incapacitated individuals throughout her career. Nayeli believes in empowering individuals and is passionate about helping others. Nayeli is from El Paso, TX and she enjoys playing soccer and reading books.
Hayven is a social worker from Amarillo, TX. She has a bachelor’s from Abilene Christian University in Bible and Ministry and a Master’s in Social Work from Abilene Christian University. She is currently working to become a licensed clinical social worker.
Hayven has worked with at-risk students, refugees, and children with special health care needs throughout her career as a social worker.
Hayven is passionate about mental health and working with disadvantaged communities. She believes that by working alongside individuals to process and heal from traumatic experiences they can become empowered and gain resilience.
Dominique is passionate about creating safe spaces where healing can take place. She is a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Texas with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Lamar University and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Dominique has had the honor of working with a lot of really brave individuals throughout her career, including children and families, refugees, and survivors of sex trafficking. She believes that, while we don’t get to choose the hurts we endure in this life, we do get the opportunity to choose how we heal. Since pain comes in all shapes and sizes, Dominique uses different therapeutic techniques tailored to the individual needs of those she serves.
When Dominique is not at work, she enjoys time spent chasing after a small toddler alongside her spouse, an authentic chai latte and a great book.
Dr. KaShanda Ray is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama, Georgia and North Carolina who has two decades of experience working with teens and adults experiencing depression, anxiety and adjustment issues. Dr. Ray has worked in both community agencies as well as in higher education providing counseling and advising to college students on both 2-year and 4-year campuses. Dr. Ray completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Mobile, received a Master’s of Science in Community Counseling from the University of South Alabama and a doctorate in Organizational Leadership at Gardner-Webb University.
Dr. Ray uses strength based, cognitive behavioral and solution-focused approaches to therapy, while working to meet the unique needs of each individual. Dr. Ray uses a combination of talk therapy and therapeutic assignments to work with each individual.
Relationships are important to Dr. Ray and the therapeutic process. As a result, Dr. Ray strives to establish an environment that is comfortable and caring. The goal is to support you and help you work towards your goals.
I am a New Yorker turned Texan, receiving my bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland in psychology and family science and my master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington in social work. Diverse experiences with therapeutic riding, TMS therapy, military mental health, and more have provided well-rounded knowledge and skills. My passion for providing a person-centered holistic approach is fueled by the privilege of hearing so many life stories and getting to be part of someone’s support system that makes them thrive.
Outside of the office, I can be found navigating the chaos two rescue dogs bring to my household, trying to snag some quiet with a cup of coffee and a good book. When others talk about me, I do not want them to label my success by my achievements or job but by the number of lives I touch.
Cayla Cecil, Licensed Master Social Worker
Hi! My name is Cayla Cecil and I am a Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners Licensed Master Social Worker(# 67761). I am a charismatic, energetic, positive, quirky soul who has a big ole heart for helping people and doing my part in changing the world, one person at a time. I have been working as a social worker for the last 10 years and have found such a deep purpose in providing mental health care and helping people grow & succeed. I am a Texan born and raised, growing up in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, moving to Waco for my undergrad at Baylor University, and now I have been in our amazing city of Austin for the last 10 years. In my free time, I absolutely love listening to, dancing to, and spinning vinyl to all my favorite genres of music. Disco is my #1! I have always said that music is the best medicine and I can’t imagine where I would be without it. I also really enjoy cooking (and eating!) foods of all different cultures, and the special moments that come with having dinner with friends and family. I am 1000% an extrovert who LOVES people, a social butterfly some might say, and I can’t begin to describe how much I love spending time with my incredible group of friends. But on the nights that I am cozied up at home with my partner and my cats, we are usually nerding out by playing board games or watching animated movies. If I am outside, you can catch me playing disc golf or playing in the water. I feel so lucky to be living such a beautiful life in such a beautiful city!
McKenzie is a Licensed Master level Social Worker in the state of Texas. She has her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from James Madison University and her master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas Arlington.
McKenzie has been working with clients who have experienced a variety of trauma since the start of her career. She began her professional career working with children, teens, and young adults involved with the child welfare system, then continued her practice with clients of all ages who have experienced some level of trauma.
McKenzie believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the importance of creating safe spaces for her clients to heal at their own pace. She understands that trauma can affect everyone differently and uses this knowledge to help guide her practice to best fit each individual she works with.
When McKenzie is outside of work, she loves a great cup of coffee, traveling, visiting her family in Boston MA, and playing with her dog Winston.
Zuni A. Ortega is a bilingual Licensed Master Social Worker with a Master of Science in Social Work with a concentration in Direct Practice with Latino Individuals, Families, and Groups from the University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley. She has experience working with youth and adults dealing with cultural adjustment, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress management, self-esteem, anger, and self-harm. She approaches therapy from a holistic, person-centered approach with a primary focus on principals from cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. Zuni will provide unconditional support while exploring, identifying, and working towards achieving one’s goal(s) in an individualized manner.
Michelle Iankowitz is a licensed clinician, complex trauma specialist, intimacy recovery coach, certified clinical hypnotherapist and also a certified HeartMath Interventions practitioner. Michelle combines heart and humor when supporting her clients through serious times of need and care. She graduated from Columbia University School of Science in Social Work and continued her holistic training throughout California and also Santa, Fe New Mexico. With over a decade of experience in the clinical world, Michelle always finds time to be with loved ones/friends, hike with her big puppy, discover new loose leaf teas and rock climb to test her own limits. Michelle is a big believer in finding balance between work and play while encouraging her clients to rediscover their own balance.
Mr. Carey Dobbins is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience providing mental health services to individuals and families in Arkansas. He has a deep commitment to helping people improve their lives and find greater meaning and fulfillment.
Mr. Carey earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Arkansas and his Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He has worked in a variety of clinical settings, including community mental health centers, schools, and hospitals, where he has provided therapy, counseling, and support to individuals of all ages.
As a highly experienced mental health professional, Mr. Carey has expertise in addressing a broad range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. He takes a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy and works collaboratively with his clients to help them identify and achieve their goals. He has a passion for working with couples and families especially in coaching families to overcome behavioral issues in the home.
In addition to his clinical work, Mr. Carey is actively involved in advocacy and public education efforts related to mental health. He is a member of several professional organizations and regularly attends conferences and workshops to stay up-to-date with the latest research and treatment approaches.
Mr. Carey is known for his warmth, empathy, and ability to create a safe and supportive environment for his clients. He is dedicated to helping people develop greater self-awareness, resilience, and coping skills, and is honored to be a part of their journey towards healing and growth.
You’ve just been through a traumatic experience. You may be still healing from any physical wounds and doing physical therapy, while also trying to show up for work or your family and just get through your day. On top of all of this your body still feels like it is in fight or flight mode, you feel irritable, on edge or reactive and images and scenes from the trauma seem to intrude your mind at unpredictable times. As a therapist specializing in treating trauma, I regularly work with people in these situations and know the mental impact that comes from traumatic incidents. I utilize evidence-based approaches to help your mind and body move on from the trauma so you can reclaim your life.
My name is Melanie Dobbins. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker. I have been a therapist for 18 years. My experience includes work with Trauma, ADHD, Mood disorders, grief, and other disorders. I have provided services to the very young, teens, elderly, and couples. I approach the treatment process always mindful of where the client is. I have used Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Modification, Mindfulness, and other treatment modalities. I always see myself as a student with a focus on learning and am always seeking to learn new skills to enhance the treatment of my clients. I have provided services in homes, schools and outpatient settings. I also use a spiritual approach when needed.
As the child of a soldier, I have moved frequently and have become comfortable with people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Moving from place to place has taught me how to adjust to various situations. I am also a lover of music and the arts. My background has allowed me to consider, learn, and develop the use of many coping skills which have proven valuable in my practice.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Oklahoma with over 19 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, family/relationship conflicts, parenting problems, career challenges, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse. I have counseled many children, teenagers, families, and individuals in a variety of settings.
I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach in treatment. This means I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your individual culture identifies and lifestyle choices that impact your experience. I primarily use evidence-based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, narrative therapy, solution-focused counseling and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
For those who desire counseling from a Christ-centered perspective, I offer Christian Counseling. Combining the best of professional counseling, this incorporates a Biblical framework within the context of one’s personal faith.
My counseling style is warm, supportive, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I offer hope, empowerment, encouragement, and compassion that is conducive to growth and change. I am here to support you through your journey.
I look forward to working with you.
Daizha Harvey, a compassionate Mental Health Therapist, brings five years of experience in the medical field, rooted in her background as a Licensed Master Social Worker. Daizha received both her Bachelors and Masters degree in Social Work from Texas Tech University. Her journey spans diverse settings, from holistically supporting individuals affected by HIV/AIDS to addressing emergency mental health needs at a nationally recognized children’s hospital. With a profound commitment to mental and emotional wellness, she offers a welcoming space for clients to explore their challenges and discover their inner strengths.
As Daizha wraps up her day as a therapist, she transitions seamlessly into her most cherished roles: as a supportive partner to her spouse and a nurturing mother to her child. With a deep understanding of the importance of family dynamics, she values every moment spent fostering these relationships. While her professional achievements hold significance, Daizha finds her greatest fulfillment in the intimate bonds cultivated within the walls of her home.
Belinda Carmona is a Licensed Social Worker who attended the University of Phoenix where she received a bachelor’s in human services. She then attended Simmons University where she received her master’s in social work. Belinda was raised in El Paso Texas and is Bilingual, speaking English and Spanish. Belinda has a passion to help and empower vulnerable and underserved populations. Belinda has 8 years in her career working in the mental health field. Her experience has been providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with trauma, personality disorders, mood disorders, substance abuse and anxiety. Belind’s approach when working with individuals is to provide a safe space where trust and healing can flourish. Her experience in therapeutic approaches includes CBT, DBT, Psychoeducation and Solution Focused. Out of work, Belinda enjoys being a part of her church community, spending quality time with family and friends and going for long walks.
Anjelica Hayter, LPC- Associate
Anjelica Hayter is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate and is supervised by Dr. Jeremy Cassius, LPC-S. She received a Bachelor of Arts from University of North Texas, and a Master of Education in School Counseling with a specialization in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University.
With experience working with the youth dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, and grief, Anjelica is dedicated to providing compassionate support and guidance. Her therapy approach focuses on creating a safe, welcoming environment centered on the individual needs of clients. By utilizing Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches, Anjelica helps clients develop coping strategies and achieve their goals in a supportive, judgment-free setting. Committed to empowering clients on their journey to well-being, Anjelica strives to make a positive impact in every individual’s life.
Lanee’ Towns is a licensed psychotherapist working with Mental pain &Trauma Centers with over a decade of clinical experience. Lanee graduated with the highest distinction of summa cum laude and is a part of the American mental health counselors association and American association of Christian counselors. She has a passion for advocating and helping individuals of all ages improve their overall well-being. At an early age Lanee volunteered and served in her community working with individuals who are marginalized and disenfranchised. Lanee has worked in an array of settings such as public schools, hospitals, non-profit agencies and served on boards to help mitigate mental health disparities within organizations and communities. Lanee has served on the foster care youth council and has written a book for young girls entitled “In case you didn’t know”.
Lanee is a client centered, trauma focused therapist. She uses an array of modalities because we are all unique and individually made. Lanee understands that all clients are different so she does not utilize a cookie cutter approach. She uses several clinical approaches consisting of CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution focused, motivational interviewing, narrative, and mindfulness. Lanee has experience treating anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, adjustments, grief/loss, post-traumatic stress, anger issues, and depression. Lanee strongly believes that the family unit and a strong support system are very beneficial in helping clients meet their goals.
Clients can expect a warm and welcoming space to feel supported and work on feeling balanced and whole. Lanee’ is here to help you feel less overwhelmed and more supported while encouraging healing. She has a goal to show the love of Jesus to all those that are struggling and hurting by being kind, compassionate, and equipping them with the tools they need. Being a therapist is an honor and she truly enjoys guiding people towards positive change.
Lanee chose Mental Pain & Trauma Centers due to the alignment in values, diversity of the providers, and the various evidenced based treatments offered to benefit clients. Lanee believes in the value of making mental health care accessible and exploring alternatives to medication.
Lanee is looking forward to creating a therapeutic alliance with you while helping you to become a better version of yourself.