Our Team
Leistey Tindall is a Dual-Board Certified Nurse Practitioner RN, MSN, FNP-BC (Family Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified), and PMHNP-BC,(Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner).
Leistey Tindall graduated from Gardner Webb University with her Associate’s Degree in Nursing, (ADN) in 2006, and then graduated from Kaplan University in 2009 receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
In 2012, she graduated from Gardner-Webb University advancing her degree to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Education.
In 2016, Leistey further advanced her career in the medical field and graduated with her Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) certification and degree.
In 2020 she graduated from Maryville University with her Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification and degree.
I possess a strong sense of empathy toward my patients, and understand that every patient has different needs, my ability to carefully process those individual needs is what allows me to provide specialized care for each of my patients. I am passionate about helping those who are suffering, whether it’s from a mental health disability or a medical need. Oftentimes we neglect to care for ourselves in our busy lives, which can come with great health risks. Patient-centered care focuses on the individual’s health outcome and builds trust within the relationship from provider to patient. Collaboration is key and is how I design a customized and comprehensive care plan, that is suitable for your goals and values as a patient.
I am thrilled to be a part of your journey in building (managing) a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric mental health and Primary Care, I will do an initial assessment, diagnose, and create a treatment and medication management plan that best suits your needs emotionally, physically, and medically. Together we will cover all of your mental health concerns and any general routine medical care you are seeking.
Kyle Duncan, NP, MSNA, PMHNP-BC
Kyle Duncan is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a robust background in critical care nursing and nursing education. He initially graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2009. Following his graduation, Kyle honed his expertise in the Neuro-Surgical and Cardio-Thoracic Intensive Care Units, where he worked as a critical care nurse, providing care to patients in high-acuity environments.
In 2015, Kyle further advanced his clinical expertise by completing a Master of Science in Nursing Anesthesia (MSNA) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. This education allowed him to gain specialized knowledge and skills, which he later applied to both clinical practice and academia.
With a passion for teaching, Kyle has made contributions to nursing education. He has taught undergraduate nursing students at various universities, focusing on skills lab instruction and simulation lab coordination. His experience in education reflects his commitment to shaping the next generation of nurses, ensuring they are well-prepared for the complexities of modern healthcare.
In 2023, Kyle expanded his scope of practice by earning a post-master’s certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Regis College. With this certification, he is equipped to provide comprehensive mental health care, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan.
Kyle believes strongly in the importance of taking care of one's mental health, understanding that everyone needs support at times. He emphasizes that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that there is nothing wrong with reaching out for assistance. "I enjoy what I do," Kyle says, "and I hope I can help you in some way." His diverse background in critical care, anesthesia, and mental health, combined with his dedication to education, makes him a well-rounded and compassionate provider. Kyle is committed to delivering holistic, patient-centered care in his role as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Veronica Johnson, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, is a pioneer in holistic psychiatry,
committed to helping individuals move away from prescription drugs and
addictive substances. With dual licensure in family medicine and
psychiatry, she combines expertise in mental health and physical wellness
to address the root causes of emotional and physical distress. Veronica
has worked alongside leaders in addiction recovery and trauma healing,
empowering people to reclaim their lives, minds, and bodies.
Veronica helps people understand that much of what they’ve been
medicating is part of the normal human experience. Rather than numbing
discomfort, she encourages individuals to embrace it, manage emotions,
and step into their full potential, creating lives filled with abundance and
meaning.
She holds psychiatric training from Vanderbilt University (2015) and family
practice training from Western Carolina University (2014). Over the years,
she has expanded her knowledge with certifications in hypnotherapy,
Certified Sex Addiction Therapy (CSAT), Advanced PIT, EMDR, Somatic
Experiencing, psychodrama, and breathwork facilitation. Veronica’s
expertise also includes functional medicine, holistic psychiatry, and
lifestyle medicine.
A certified herbalist and energy worker, Veronica’s approach integrates
alternative therapies like Healing Touch, NADA auricular acupuncture, and
permaculture, reflecting her deep commitment to mental, emotional, and
spiritual well-being. Her practice emphasizes deprescribing, guiding
people to free themselves from pharmaceuticals and reclaim their
sovereignty through connection with nature, community, and personal
growth.
Veronica lives on a homestead outside Asheville, NC, where she’s creating
a food forest. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, hiking with her dog
Raven, spending time with her daughters and granddaughters, and
nurturing the land and animals on her homestead.
My name is Shamika Ushry, LCSW. I have worked in the mental health field for 15 years with specialties in TBI, Geriatrics, and Inpatient psychiatric care. I enjoy working therapeutically with a variety of clients to enhance their quality of life. My space is judgement free, and I believe in being where the client is to achieve the optimal level of happiness for every individual I serve.
Shamika Ushry, LCSW
Dena Ford Johnson, MS, NCC, LCMHCA, LCASA graduated with her Bachelor's degree in Sociology from the University of Miami and her Masters of Science in Clinical Counseling from East Carolina University. She and her husband of 23 years are the proud parents of four children. . I am a member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators Counselors and Therapists. I work with Adults and young people who question their sexuality and have issues that arise from their lifestyle. I create a safe place to fall and a safe place land.
Beth Teresa Gosnell,
MA,NCC,
ATR, LCMHC, NCDPI, Certified Educator in Art, Special Needs and Reading Specialist
Beth brings her extensive training in art, psychotherapy, and the creative process to her work as a clinician. As an art therapist, she is able to utilize nonverbal expression and exploration through a variety of art materials and expressive arts professional training including theatre, music, film, poetry, animation and comics/anime' and the visual arts in addition to verbal processing. Ms. Beth is dedicated to integrating art and creativity to facilitate communication, insight, growth and healing. Ms. Beth is focused on the needs of each individual she works with. Goals are set collaboratively with the client and the method for reaching them is unique to each individual
Donita Smith is a licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. She received her Bachelor of Social Work Degree from Shaw University in 2015 and went on to obtain her Masters of Social Work Degree from North Carolina Central University in 2019. Donita is currently a member of the NASW, Phi Alpha National Honor Society, the NC ETA Chapter of Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, and National Association of Black Social Workers. She enjoys working with diverse populations, is passionate about helping others, and strives to be an effective social work professional.
Donita Smith,
MSW,LCSWA
Delana M. Lucas, MSN, APRN, AGPCNP-BC
I am a nurse practitioner who has been in the nursing field for over 15 years. Most of my career has been in palliative and end of life care. I have dealt with grief that comes from patients and their loved ones during their most vulnerable times of their life. This includes but is not limited to depression and anxiety. I have also worked in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities to manage psychiatric medications that smooth moods and behaviors in patients with trauma, psychotic, mood, and obsessive disorders.
My educational background begins with my starting out as a high school drop-out to graduating with my master's in nursing from Duke University. I have three amazing sons, who have all served our nation's military. I am blessed to have granddaughters who light up my world!
It is an honor and privilege to serve you and help you become the best version of yourself!
Laquanna Lucas, MSW, LCSW-A
Laquanna Lucas is a licensed clinical social worker associate in the state of North Carolina. Laquanna received her Bachelor of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2018. After graduating, Laquanna decided to return back to school where she received her Masters of Social Work from Capella University in 2021. Laquanna enjoys serving diverse populations, mentoring the youth, and being a mental health advocate. Laquanna has had experience working with the homeless population. She has also worked in a psychiatric inpatient hospital. Laquanna’s recent expertise is in Outpatient Therapy working with adolescents with behavioral issues.
Sometimes, we may feel so overwhelmed that we don’t know what to do to improve our circumstances. I am here to support you. I create a safe place, a soft place to land, so that you can share and explore the pain you are experiencing. I believe that is the foundation of a strong therapeutic relationship. It is the therapeutic relationship that helps us heal. We do not live in a vacuum; we change and grow through our relationships. I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, physical and/or sexual abuse, relationship issues, issues connected with the LGBT community, and behavioral issues. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults, and I provide individual, group, and family therapy.
Kathleen Colbert,
MA, LCMHCA
Jacqua Ushry,
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSWA)
I have been in the mental Health field for almost 8 years working with many different populations. I take pride in what I do because I understand how important mental health is to every community. I use CBT and talk therapy in sessions. I ensure the environment is a calm, relaxing, No Judgement zone.
Sodeya Midgett,
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Minerva Dudley, LCSWA
Hello My name is Minerva Gibbs LCSWA I am a native of Bayboro NC aka “The County” I have worked in the mental health field for the past 9 years. I began my journey in the mental health field as a mobile crisis worker and the population we served were mental health, substance abuse and the IDD population. I enjoyed meeting new people and once they were discharged from services I wanted to know how they were doing, so I knew then I had to do something to see about the continuum of care.
I graduated from Pitt Community College 2017 Associates in Arts, Shaw University “Shaw U!! You know!!’ Bachelor in Social Work and I continued my education and obtained my Masters from Walden University January 2022. Praise be to God for the wonderful works he has done in my life. He created me to have a heart to assist others and help them learn their worth. I love making people smile and using positive affirmations along the way. I am currently a member of NASW, Phi Alpha National Honor Society and National Association of Black Social Workers. Everyone is a work in progress and I’m here when you're ready to start your journey. Remember “ We Got This!!!”
My name is Sodeya Midgett and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSW) practicing as a therapist with Second Chance Behavioral Health. I obtained my master’s degree from University of North Carolina at Pembroke in Social Work (MSW). Upon obtaining my MSW, I began providing mental health services and working in the human services field. I have been doing so for the past 7 years. I have experience treating a variety of populations, including adults, adolescents and geriatrics with diverse backgrounds and range of concerns. The vast majority of my experience stems from counseling clients with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, ADHD, ODD and providing family counseling. I utilize treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to assist in meeting treatment goals developed.
As a therapist I am warm, open, encouraging and direct while assisting with the needs of my clients. I continue to educate myself through attending local conferences, training and obtaining supervision. I am very passionate about my career and I am excited to serve!
JENNA GRAY, LCMHC
I’m Jenna Gray, LCMHC. I’m a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina. I offer individual Telehealth services to a variety of NC clients and insurances. I have a heart for helping others because we all need it sometimes. My approach is meeting people where they are and providing therapeutic support while they grow and progress. I have a background in mental health counseling and clinical assessments. I have been in the mental health field since 2017. Some specialty areas include, but are not limited to: teenagers, young adults, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, adjustment disorders, identity and LGBTQ+ concerns, relationship difficulties, family stress, and anger management.
I’m grateful to be a part of this team here at Second Chance Behavioral Health.
Mariela Butler, Social work Intern
My name is Mariela Albarelli Butler. My parents are Italian. They moved to Argentina for work.
That’s where I was born. I speak some Italian. However, my first language is Spanish, and my secondary
language is English. I have lived and worked in several countries including Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador,
Colombia, Spain, and Italy. I now live in the United States with my husband of 8 years. We have a wonderful international blended family. My husband has two sons and together we have four grandchildren. When I am not working, I like to go to the gym and participate in several exercise classes
such as Yoga, TRX, Spin, and Pilates. My husband and I love to travel and experience different cultures and foods. We are foodies. Since I was 15 years old, I have been volunteering for non-profit organizations such as Damas Rosadas, Operation Smile, Unicef, and the Julie Valentine Center. Therefore, social work is a natural fit for me as a career. There is always more to learn, research, and advocate for.
I meet each client where he or she is, and offer a non-judgmental, empathetic space for therapy. I work with diverse populations across the lifespan, including children and teens with emotional, behavior, and conduct disorders, as well as clients with major mental illness and/or everyday life stress.
I am also a former teacher, both general education and exceptional children.
Amie Hanson,
MA, LCMHC
Hi. I'm Vera Gibson and I am a LCMHCA. More specifically, I am someone who greatly enjoys working with others to spark change in their lives and relationships. In my work I help children, teens, adults, and couples to feel satisfied in their connection with their partners, and to reduce and overcome stress and frustration in their everyday lives. I support my clients in exploring their history and learning about past patterns they may not even be aware of, so they can begin to have more control over their emotions, regain excitement in their relationships, and reclaim their lives.
I know from my years of experience working with individuals, families, and children that have a history of trauma, behavioral challenges, and relationship issues that you have the ability to make big changes in your life. The clients that I work with are motivated and committed to making these changes, and I love providing them with the tools, techniques, and guidance so that they can reach their fullest potentials. I work to be as goal oriented as possible because I know your time and money are valuable. Because of this, I focus on ensuring I am keeping up with the latest research proven interventions and approaches in the fields of trauma, behavioral, and relationship therapy. If you are ready to do the work, I guarantee you will be amazed at how capable you are to explore parts of yourself and reach levels you weren't aware of. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, depressed, and at a crossroads in life, I would love to speak with you and start exploring what is holding you back from living the life you were meant to live.
Vera Gibson, LCMHC, CCTP, MFT, EMDR
My name is Queena Washington. To start, I was not born a social worker nor have I lived a perfect life. I grew up in poverty and had obstacles but decided early on that this was not my assignment. I live in a world as challenging and nuanced as yours. And I believe that we are all surviving in this crazy world together, so I want to assist where I can in making that just a little easier for everyone I meet the same way that it was done for me. I am a mother, first and foremost (and a single one at that) to a teenage daughter, which in and of itself comes with challenges of its own. I am also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate with over 20 years of experience working with and caring for people. My first 12 years, I spent in nursing with a focus on geriatrics. I then worked for 5 years as a Medical/Administrative Assistant. I finally got my introduction to the mental health field as a Qualified Professional and Peer Support Specialist working with children in an Intensive In-Home environment, and in-home and the community with individuals who suffer with severe and persistent mental illness respectively. In 2018, I began my work at the Department of Social Services with the Majority of my time spent as an Adult Protective Services Social Worker. I hold an Associate of Arts in Health Administration (2008), a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (2011), and a Master of Social Work (2022). I have a thorough knowledge of social work principles, techniques, and practices, along with their application to complex cases, group work, and community challenges. I have a considerable knowledge of family and group dynamics, along with governmental/private organizational and community resources. I am skilled at working with behavior and socio-economic problems and their treatment, including individuals suffering with severe and persistent mental illness. I hope that you will allow me to meet you where you are and assist you in obtaining your goals. It will be my pleasure to walk with you on your journey to wellness and holistic health. I look forward to meeting you and until then, in my best Iyanla Vanzant voice, “Stay in peace not in pieces.”
QUEENA WASHINGTON, LCSWA
LaMika Odum,LCSWA
Do you wonder why you keep making the same mistakes? Do you engage in self-sabotage? Experience low self-esteem or self-doubt? Do you want change but not sure where to start? I understand, I’ve been there. Whether a teenager or adult, we all experience things in life that require someone to walk alongside us to assist us on our journey to healing. I possess a strong sense of empathy for my clients and understand every client has different needs. I provide a nonjudgmental, supportive, and therapeutic environment to help you explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My approach is warm and professional. I believe in treating all aspects of the individual while applying strengths and teaching new skills to assist you on your healing journey.
Sherree Smith, LCASA
Sherree is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate, practicing as a therapist working with those with addiction issues and co-occurring mental health disorders such as: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, grief, loss, behavioral issues, mood disorders, life stressors, sexual abuse issues and more.
Sherree received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and her Master of Science in Counseling from Faulkner University. Sherree also graduated from Shelton State School of Nursing.
Her primary focus is working with the adult population, and occasionally adolescents.
Sherree has worked in many diverse settings in the mental health field including psychiatric units in hospitals, community mental health, outpatient settings and intensive in-home treatment. Sherree has worked in psychiatric, chemical dependency, and geriatric nursing. She has also worked as a Behavioral Health Case Manager and Substance Abuse Counselor. She has worked with those with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, substance use/chemical dependency, detoxification, and those with dual diagnosis, early childhood intervention, and other psychiatric/mental issues.
Additionally, as a community volunteer, she has had experiences in working as a Guardian Ad Litem within the Court System advocating for the best interest of the children involved; worked with the local Literacy Program- teaching adults to read; and various nursing and assisted living organizations facilitating Art Activities.
Sherree is a military family member (her husband, sons, father, grandfather, uncles, cousins, brother-in-laws and numerous other family members all served. Sherree also served in the military, and is a retired Soldier. She has a special understanding of the challenges military families face today.
Sherree's approach is to provide a supportive, calm, safe place to help empower clients to reach their goals.
JASMINE IS AN INTERN FROM WALDEN UNIVERSITY. SHE IS A MASTERS LEVEL STUDENT WHO IS WORKING TOWARDS HER LICENSURE IN SOCIAL WORK.
JASMINE POWELL-PEREZ , INTERN
Shaunte is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with over 9 years of experience. Shaunte has worked with multiple populations and with people from all walks of life. Shaunte received her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Rehabilitation Counseling from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 2015.
Shaunte provides individual, couples, family, and group counseling. She uses multiple therapy models and interventions with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Areas of special interest consist of anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, Postpartum Depression, and Postpartum Psychosis, anger, marriage, substance abuse, and addictions. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. Shaunte is able to provide supervision for LCMHCA and LCASA.
SHAUNTE JOHNSON, LCMHC, LCMHCS, CSI
I have been in the Mental Health Field for over 20 years. I specialize in disruptive behaviors ages 7 to 21. I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy. I provide a non-judgmental and safe environment.
Sometimes, we may feel so overwhelmed that we don’t know what to do to improve our circumstances. I am here to support you. I create a safe place, a soft place to land, so that you can share and explore the pain you are experiencing. I believe that is the foundation of a strong therapeutic relationship. It is the therapeutic relationship that helps us heal.
Tysha Ushry,
MA, MFT, LCMHC
Christina Saunders, Office Manager
JODI GILLIAM-SAMPSON, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 1
Angela Moore
Records and Insurance Specialist
Deyana Thomas
Administrative Assistant
ALEXIS USHRY
BILLING SPECIALIST SUPERVISOR
JAILA USHRY, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 11
Luna is a 'teenage" Siberian Husky rescued by Monty's Home and trained by the Second Chance (a different organization than our therapy office) program by Pender County Prison Inmates. Luna is beginning her journey to be a therapy dog. Luna enjoys lots of hugs, loves to give kisses, making mud angels, playing with everything and everybody and currently provides comic relief during Ms. Beth's sessions. ..oh, and of course lots of doggie treats!
Luna,
Therapy Dog
KAYLA USHRY
BILLING SPECIALIST