(803) 722-4975 info@palmercounsel.com

Meet Our Team

Reese Palmer, LMFT

Founder/Couples Therapist

Accepting New Self Pay Couples Only

“As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
– Marianne Williamson

Hi, I am Reese Palmer. I’m a clinical psychotherapist specializing in marriage and family therapy,  I am also a Christian counselor, an entrepreneur, a family life specialist, and a relationship guru. I help children, teens, adults, couples and families with many different challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, infidelity and serious conflict.

Read Full Bio

Healing The Pain 

As a former Child Welfare professional for over a decade and County Director for the Department of Social Services, I also have direct experience serving those suffering from the heartbreaking effects of trauma. As a Therapist, I have the honor of helping individuals who have survived traumatic experiences such as family violence, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect. With genuine empathy, non-judgmental interactions and evidence-based approaches. I help others to heal from emotional pain, hopelessness and despair. 

Healthy Relationships

Relationships are the emotional building blocks of our society and our world. Sometimes they can be very difficult and even painful. It takes hard work and effort to nurture safe, secure bonds anchored by trust and lifelong commitment. Using Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral and Emotionally Focused Therapy, I can help you learn how to effectively identify and express your feelings and needs. I can also help you to heal from toxic or abusive relationships, and understand how to create healthy and safe interpersonal boundaries. I have a very successful track record helping individuals and couples who have experienced severe relationship traumas including infidelity, separation, divorce and intimate partner violence to heal, love and be loved again.

Walking With You

I work really hard to create a safe space for you to explore any negative patterns or behaviors that may be stopping you from enjoying a more abundant life, satisfying career, or healthy relationships. Simply put, I help you to remove any roadblocks keeping you from God’s greater plan and purpose for your life. I also believe it is my job to continuously inspire hope every time we meet. Hope is critical; with it anything is possible. My goal is to provide you with opportunities to dig deep and face difficult, sometimes painful things about your past, your relationships and family that may be keeping you stuck. I strive to help you move beyond negative self-talk or faulty beliefs that keep you from being the best version of yourself.

My Credentials

  • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (SC License #4674)
  • Master of Marriage and Family Therapy, Southern Connecticut State University
  • Certified Gestalt Therapist, Southern Connecticut State University
  • Bachelor of Science, Communications, Southern Connecticut State University

The Graduate MFT program at SCSU was extremely demanding, and I received hundreds of hours of live 1-way mirror supervision. I was observed by my professors, classmates and clinical supervisors as I conducted therapy sessions and was provided real-time feedback and guidance as part of my clinical training.

I am a Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT); a professional association in the field of marriage and family therapy representing more than 50,000 marriage and family therapists throughout the United States, Canada, and abroad.

Although my training and clinical orientation is primarily rooted in family systems theory, I may use many theoretical models and clinical interventions depending on the specific needs of the person, couple or family I am working with. Here are some of the approaches I use often:

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Structural Family Therapy
  • Gestalt Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

More About Me

Maybe it sounds corny, but I genuinely love helping and seeing people happy. There is no greater feeling in the world than experiencing someone struggle and fight to be free and finally have that long-awaited breakthrough. IT IS AMAZING! For me, it never gets old. I truly believe this work is God’s calling on my life.

I stay very busy as a proud dad to Jessica, Vaughn, Bryson and Bryant Jacob, as well as a devoted husband to VaLisa, the absolute love of my life. I am also an active member and Deacon for my church family. When I am not helping others I love traveling, cycling and being near or in the water. Oh, and dancing, I love to dance!

VaLisa Palmer, MA, LPC, NCC

Co-Founder, Therapist & Life Coach

Not Accepting New Clients

“Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”  Proverbs 11:14 NKJV

“At the intersection where your gifts, talents, and abilities meet a human need; therein you will discover your purpose.”
– Aristotle

“It’s never too late to be who you might have been”
– George Elliott

I am so glad you have decided to join this journey with me. I am Christian Counselor, Life, Career and Relationship Coach, who has helped hundreds of individuals improve their lives and create success, that is God-centered and well balanced. In this hectic life, I know how important it is to remain hopeful, encouraged and to understand your purpose. I feel blessed to have found my calling as a Professional Counselor and a Life Coach. I am truly passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

I’m happily married to my husband Reese and we have four wonderful children. We have also been therapeutic foster parents to several other children over the years.

I enjoy working with families, couples and our “Generation Next” to help them achieve greatness through God’s Promise. One of the scriptures from God’s Word I keep as a personal reminder is Matthew 6:33 “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” I am a firm believer that we should always seek to understand each other and with God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness all things are possible through Christ who strengthens us!

Personal Motto:
“Today I will… Be uplifted. Smile. Open my heart. Love. Laugh. Listen carefully. Rejoice. Be inspired and share it all with others.”

Niya Calderon, LPCS, LAC

Clinical Consultant, Therapist

Currently not accepting clients

Niya Calderon is a licensed professional counselor, Licensed addictions counselor, and supervisor for LPC-interns. She’s provided training facilitation for organizations in both SC and NC with topics in communication, emotional management, leadership, and coping with transitions. Niya is passionate about working with individuals who are in challenging seasons. She thrives on providing encouragement, edifying, and restoring hurt emotions with cognitive change, practical skills, and spirituality to any individual or group she’s working with. Her high energy and relatable sense of humor helps many people stay engaged while working through difficult conversation.

Ebony Langhorne, EdS., LPC

Site Supervisor, Therapist

Hey! I’m Ebony Langhorne and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. I attended the University of South Carolina for both undergraduate and graduate school and completed my Educational Specialist Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in May 2015.

My experience includes providing in-home therapy, group therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, and case management services. I have supported clients through challenges such as behavioral concerns, anxiety, depression, suicidality, self-harm, trauma, and parent-child relational issues.

I view the world as interconnected and believe in the importance of accessing the support we need to live productive lives. This is evident in my family systems approach to therapy. I like to combine the use of cognitive-behavioral techniques with art, music, mindfulness, and relaxation in sessions. In therapy, I help clients use their current interests and strengths to build resiliency.

I was born in Long Island, NY and moved to SC when I was 12 years old–so I’m half southern, half-northern. You never know what accent may come out! I enjoy listening to Gospel, Christian Rap, Hip-Hop, Indie R&B/Soul music, podcasts, and audiobooks. In my free time, you’ll find me spending time with my church family and/or managing our ministry’s online presence on some social media site.

 

Chelsea Casey, MS, LPC

Virtual Therapist

Hi, I’m Chelsea.
I’m a licensed professional counselor who works with clients ready to heal from the past, break
free from cycles of self-doubt, and reconnect with their most authentic selves. My own healing
journey led me to this work, and it continues to shape the empathy and intention I bring to each
session.
I’m passionate about helping others transform trauma, build self-confidence, and access the
inner strength that already lives within them. Much of my work includes supporting clients in
inner child healing—nurturing the parts of themselves that have long felt unseen or unheard. I
tailor each session to your unique needs, drawing from a range of specialized training and
experience. I’m Level 2 trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), a Certified Instinctual Trauma
Response (ITR) therapist, and a Dancing Mindfulness Facilitator.
Nothing brings me more joy than witnessing my clients step into their wholeness. If you’re ready
to begin—or continue—your healing journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you.

 

Karly Stroup, PsyD, ABPP, CPRP

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Stroup is available for Psychological Evaluations Only

Hello, my name is Dr. Karly Stroup and I am an energetic and ambitious licensed clinical psychologist who is offering comprehensive psychological assessments and psychoeducational assessments to the growing Blythewood and Northeast communities!  I use a variety of tests and diagnostic methods to capture each individual’s profile of strengths and weaknesses. I asses the person’s level of functioning, including attention, memory, learning skills, language skills, nonverbal reasoning, organizational skills and problem solving. I investigate whether the person is experiencing any emotional distress that is severe enough to meet criteria for a formal psychological diagnosis, such as a depressive or an anxiety disorder, and to get a sense of his or her coping skills. The outcome of the assessment is to guide treatment or other supports needed to maximize a person’s ability to function at their best in their environment.  A comprehensive psychological assessment can serve many functions that can be critical in treatment planning. For example, when a child is struggling with behavioral problems and academic difficulties, this could be a result of several factors (e.g., mental health problems, social skills deficits, an undiagnosed learning disability, neuropsychological deficits, ADHD, etc.). The findings of an assessment could help providers and educators better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the individual child and clarify the supports that child needs.

Other areas of assessment include:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Learning Disabilities   (e.g., non verbal learning disability, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, reading disabilities, math learning disability, disorder of written expression, intellectual disability, etc.)
  • Intellectual Giftedness
  • Diagnostic clarification for psychological disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, behavioral disorders, bipolar disorder)

If you are wondering if an assessment is appropriate, please contact me to initiate a free phone consultation where we discuss the presenting problems and whether or not an assessment at this time would be appropriate. I may also want to review previous testing and educational records, if available, and request that an intake form be completed. I strive to complete the testing phase where I administer standardized tests or other assessment procedures in one appointment. After testing, we will schedule a feedback meeting where we discuss the results, my impressions, and recommendations. I will also provide you with a detailed psychological assessment report that can be shared with others.  My goal is to is to evaluate the presenting problems from the ground up, in context, to determine the origin of the problem and then to make recommendations that will be useful in managing or solving the problem. I will commit that you will receive a respectful, in depth look at the issue, or significant narrowing down of the potential causes and having a clear sense of what to do next.

 

 

 

Rozanna Tross, PsyD.

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Tross is available for Psychological Evaluations Only

I am a licensed psychologist providing both clinical and forensic evaluations to adults and adolescents.   I began my work in South Carolina in January 2014 working for the South Carolina Department of Mental Health (SCDMH) conducting competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility/capacity to conform, and sexually violent predator risk assessment evaluations.  From 2014 to 2016 I provided supervision for treatment providers as well as ran an interdisciplinary treatment team, which oversaw the development of treatment plans for each inpatient resident and monitored progress on those plans.  I developed and provided training seminars for clinical staff related to understanding sex offenders, assessing and addressing a variety of mental health issues, and implementing appropriate treatment strategies for those issues. In 2015 I developed and ran the assessment team, which conducted psychological assessments on all newly admitted residents and performed specialized referral assessments on residents as needed (e.g., intellectual, neurological, diagnostic, and malingering, etc.). 

From 2017 through January 2021 I served as the training director for the SCDMH Forensic Psychology Postdoctoral Fellowship Program and was responsible for its inception and development.  I oversaw the supervision and training of the fellows in a variety of criminal forensic evaluations. In January 2021 I entered into private practice where I continue to provide a variety of clinical and forensic assessments geared toward helping understand and address mental health issues as well as provide consultation on forensic issues. 

  

Natasha Washington, MA, NCC, LPC 

Therapist 

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“Mental health is not a destination, but a process.
It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.”

Noam Spencer, PhD”

Hello, I’m Natasha Washington, a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I firmly believe that you have the power to create the life you desire. No matter what challenges you’re facing, there is always hope, and I am here to help you navigate through it.

I offer a supportive, professional, and compassionate approach, guiding you toward a happier, healthier place. While I don’t have all the answers, I am confident in my ability to help you discover a better version of yourself and a more fulfilling life.

I work with you to explore emotions and challenges, focus on your desired outcomes, and learn from each experience along the way. Whether you’re dealing with grief, heartache, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, identity concerns, or any other difficult situation, I am here to support you.

I am experienced in working with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures, and I am committed to meeting you where you are and helping you reach your goals.

Wishing you a blessed day, and I look forward to being part of your journey.

Karalyn “Kara” Witherel, EdS., LPC

Therapist 

“All that is gold does not glitter; Not all who wander are lost”

Hi all! My name is Karalyn but I go by Kara for short. I am a Licensed Counselor Associate and a National Certified Counselor. I have received both of my degrees from University of South Carolina. I was awarded my Bachelors of Art in Psychology with a minor in Counseling Education in 2020 after which I completed my Educational Specialist degree (Masters) with a focus in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Play Therapy. Go Gamecocks! 

I enjoy seeing clients in individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy settings. I specialize in treatment for children and adolescents ages 5-18. I also enjoy working with young adults between the ages of 18-35. My areas of specialty include Play Therapy, ADHD/ODD, TF-CBT, DBT skills training and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I engage my clients through a humanistic approach, which means I strive to provide a non-judgemental, safe space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions and become the best version of yourself. When possible, I strongly believe that immediate family members should be involved closely when it comes to treating a child or adolescent. Children are healthiest and thrive when they have the support of a loving connected family. 

My goal for the future as a therapist is to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology to continue my professional development and skillset to meet my clients needs. Fun facts about me: I am a huge animal lover and a dog mom of two wonderful fur-babies! I was born in Buffalo, NY and raised in Lexington, SC. I am still a diehard Bills fan and love my Buffalo chicken wings! I like to relax by crocheting, reading, playing video games, and watching my true crime documentaries. I look forward to working with you and your family to provide support and success!

Courtney Young, MA, LPC/A

Therapist 

“Healing doesn’t take time it takes courage!” 

Greetings, my name is Courtney Young!I was born and raised in New York City, becoming a proud resident of South Carolina back in 2013. I’m a licensed professional counselor and graduate of Liberty University’s Marriage & Family Therapy Program.

My undergraduate studies include Prehospital
Emergency Care and Early Childhood Administration degrees. As an Army spouse, educator, and retired paramedic, I bring decades of diverse experience to my role as a mental health practitioner. My background as a public servant makes me especially attuned to the challenges that many of my clients face.

I am very much family focused as I love to spend time with my husband, children, and grandchildren. I consistently serve at my local church, being a light in any way possible. My hobbies include reading, writing poetry, traveling, and singing praise and worship songs at the tops of my off-key lungs.

My approach to therapy is rooted in compassion and empowerment, providing valued support to those in need of a hand. My mission is to equip each client with the
necessary tools to manage life’s struggles while building mental and emotional resiliency. I believe that we are all a part of a bigger picture, a shared human experience
that matters to God.

Areas of Focus:

 Family Therapy (children/adolescent/parenting)
 Marriage & Premarital Counseling
 Individual Therapy
 Anxiety & Depression
 Trauma
 Major Life Transitions
 Self-Esteem
 Stress Management
 Interpersonal Relationships
 College Students
 Grief Counseling
 Spiritual Integration

Treatment Modalities Used:

 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT & FCBT)
 Gottman Couples Therapy
 Bowen Family Systems Therapy
 Solution Focused Therapy
 Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
 Trauma Informed Therapy

Latrice Wright ,

Lead Administrative Coordinator 

“All things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

Hello there, I’m Latrice,

With more than two decades of dedicated service in the healthcare field, I bring a wealth of experience from hospitals, physician practices, and mental health settings. In my role as Lead Administrative Coordinator, I am committed to serving both clients and providers with excellence, compassion, and purpose-driven care.

I am passionate about walking alongside individuals as they navigate their healthcare journey, offering guidance, empathy, and unwavering support. I believe true leadership begins with service, and I strive to model servant leadership in every interaction. By fostering trust, listening with intention, and leading with humility, my goal is to create an environment where clients, clinicians, and team members feel seen, valued, and supported.

Motivated by compassion and a heart for people, I approach each day with the belief that healing extends beyond clinical care—it begins with connection. One of the scriptures that guides my life is Romans 8:28: “All things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” This keeps me grounded, purposeful, and resilient through every season.

 

Kendra Creech, Administrative Coordinator

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Phillipians 4:13

Hi, I’m Kendra, and I have the privilege of being one of your first points of contact here at Palmer Counseling & Consulting. As an Administrative Coordinator, I am committed to providing exceptional support with scheduling, billing and payments, insurance inquiries, and overall office coordination to ensure your experience with us is smooth, welcoming, and stress-free.

I earned my Associate Degree in Health Science with a focus in Medical Assisting from ECPI University. Along with my background in medical billing and customer service, I bring a blend of professionalism, compassion, and administrative expertise to every interaction. It is always my pleasure to assist in any way that I can.

My passion for helping others fuels my ability to connect with the individuals and families I serve. I am a joyful, easygoing, and confident person who strives to make each person feel heard, supported, and genuinely welcomed. I truly believe that a kind word, a listening ear, and a warm greeting can make a difference in someone’s day and I’m grateful to offer that in my role.

One of the scriptures that guides my life is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” This verse reminds me that with God’s strength, I am equipped to show up with excellence, grace, and compassion for those I serve.

I look forward to connecting with you and providing the very best care and support during your time with us.

 

 

Welcome!

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Palmer Counseling and Consulting is offering both Telehealth Services and In Office Sessions, to continue to serve you during this time.

To schedule an appointment, please click the link below.

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COVID-19 Announcement:Palmer Counseling will continue to serve our community during the COVID-19 Pandemic. We now offer Tele-Health Therapy, online via a HIPAA compliant platform or via the telephone. Click here for more information.