WELCOME
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or overwhelmed?
Is your mind constantly racing—especially at night—making it hard to rest?
Do you find yourself avoiding conflict, even if it means accepting less than you deserve?
Is the harmony in your relationship off and in need of a reset?
Maybe you're recovering from narcissistic abuse—whether from a partner, a family member, or even in the workplace.
Perhaps you're trying to find balance between work and life or just navigating a difficult season.
Is your adolescent son or daughter in need of a mentor or healing space to talk?
Are you a man seeking guidance on identity, purpose, or emotional health?
Would you benefit from counseling that aligns with and supports your Christian faith?
Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to walk through it alone.
Your goals matter.
It’s okay to ask for support—and we’re here to walk alongside you on your journey.
Founder/ Clinical Psychotherapist
Tanise Smith, MS, LCPC
Tanise is a clinically licensed psychotherapist in Kansas and Missouri and the Founder of Journey Embraced Counseling (est. 2020). With over 20 years of experience, she provides compassionate, insight-driven care for individuals navigating narcissistic abuse recovery, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship challenges. She was honored to be a nominated finalist for Best Therapist in the Kansas City People’s Choice Awards in 2023 and 2025, reflecting her commitment to impactful, client-centered care.
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She has supported hundreds of clients healing from emotionally abusive dynamics and specializes in attachment, identity development, and relational growth.
Tanise also leads specialty therapeutic groups focused on family healing, wounded identity, co-dependence recovery, and youth music-based groups. She is a faith-based and mental health workshop curator and serves as a certified clinical supervisor in Kansas and Missouri, as well as a consultant for emerging private practice clinicians.
Her approach is structured, empathetic, and growth-oriented. “I look forward to sharing genuine support alongside you on your journey.”
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Clinical Social Work/ Therapist
Natasha Harris-Butler, LCSW, LSCSW
Natasha is a Kansas and Missouri Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been serving individuals and families since 2006. She specializes in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients effectively manage anxiety, overthinking, stress, and depression. Natasha is passionate about equipping individuals with practical, evidence-based tools to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, regulate emotions, and build healthier coping strategies.
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While she has extensive experience supporting those navigating divorce-related stress and grief, her work strongly focuses on helping clients reduce anxious rumination and regain mental clarity and confidence. In addition to individual counseling, Natasha facilitates therapeutic groups designed to address anxiety and provide structured skill-building in a supportive, collective healing environment.
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She is also the author of Anchored by Grace: Prayers for Keeping an Undivided Heart After Divorce, a prayer journal created to support individuals navigating the emotional and spiritual journey of divorce.
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“I listen; I share empathy, understanding, and unconditional positive regard. My hope is to help clients draw from their strengths while cultivating an undivided heart during challenging experiences.”
Clinical Social Work/ Therapist
Debra Richardson, LSCSW, LCSW
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Debra is a Kansas and Missouri Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience in social work and mental health. Throughout her career, she has served individuals and families in a variety of clinical settings and remains deeply committed to helping others move toward healing and wellness.
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Debra views therapy as a guided conversation that creates space for growth, clarity, and meaningful change. Her approach is interactive, conversational, and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She specializes in supporting individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and grief and loss.
Debra works collaboratively with clients to identify strengths, build resilience, and develop practical tools for lasting change.
Her goal is to normalize the therapy process and provide a supportive environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and equipped to move forward with confidence.
Licensed Professional Counselor (KS) – Under Clinical Supervision
Chris Gudjenov, LPC
Specializing in Adolescent Athletes & Men’s Mental Health
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Chris is a Licensed Professional Counselor (KS) practicing under clinical supervision with over 10 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. For the past seven years, he has supported U.S. Army service members and their families through resilience training, CBT-based skill development, and substance use support, including alcohol misuse and stress-related coping concerns.
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Chris specializes in working with adolescent athletes, high performers, and men navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and substance use. As a Certified Mental Performance Consultant, he supports clients in building resilience and enhancing performance across military, collegiate, and professional settings.
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Using a Cognitive-Behavioral approach, Chris helps clients build self-awareness, manage anxiety, address unhealthy coping patterns, and develop practical tools that create lasting growth—both on and off the field.
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Outside of work, Chris enjoys hiking, staying active outdoors, and playing just about any sport he can get his hands on.
Certified Life Coach/ Administrative Coordinator
Cynthia Stokes, LCC
Cynthia Stokes is a certified life coach with an extensive background as an instructor and mentor. She specializes in working with adolescents and teens, supporting them as they navigate emotional and mental challenges while building practical coping skills, confidence, and resilience in a nurturing and empowering environment.
She also works with women from diverse backgrounds and is especially passionate about providing Christian mentorship and coaching to women navigating life stress, marital challenges, and the journey of parenthood.
As a wife of over 19 years and a mother of five, Cynthia brings both professional insight and personal experience to her work. She values family, holistic living, creative expression, and also serves as a professional photographer and writer. Her natural ability in communication and active listening allows her to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood and encouraged.
Cynthia’s approach is centered on guiding individuals toward deeper self-reflection, meaningful personal growth, and the development of effective coping skills. She is committed to helping clients build confidence, overcome mental and emotional barriers, and move forward with greater clarity and peace.
Pastoral Counselor & Men's Life Coach
Jonathan Slade, B. Th.
Jonathan is a pastor and life coach with a deep passion for helping people find clarity, healing, and purpose in every season of life. With years of experience walking alongside individuals and families through times of transition and growth, he provides practical, faith-based guidance to support emotional, spiritual, and personal development.
Jonathan is especially committed to supporting men in their journey toward becoming servant leaders—whether at home, at work, or in their communities. He offers focused support in areas such as goal setting, self-improvement, and living with intention and integrity.
His approach is centered on creating a safe, encouraging space where you can reflect, realign, and move forward with confidence and hope.
Jonathan is a devoted husband and proud father of four beautiful children. He enjoys mixed martial arts, hiking, anime and family time. He looks forward to walking alongside you on your journey toward growth and wholeness.
