Our diverse staff is at the heart of what makes Rising Hope Therapy special. We believe that the richness of human experiences deserves to be met with a diverse team of therapists who can relate to and understand the unique challenges faced by different communities. Our therapists and staff come from various backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations and they are committed to creating a safe and affirming space for everyone who seeks our services.

Tracey Smith is a Master's level therapist with a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Wayland Baptist University. She received a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a minor in Business Administration from Wayland Baptist University. She is a mother of five beautiful adult children and married to her high school sweetheart of 38 years. She has a Doctorate in Biblical Studies and is a certified Chaplain.

​Ciera has a background in Customer Care Management, Healthcare, Billing, and Administration.
She is the glue that keeps the office running. Ciera also provides scheduling and billing services on behalf of Rising Hope Therapy. If you have any questions or concerns please email Ciera.  She will happily assist.

Tamara is a current doctoral student and a masters-level clinician in counseling for mental health and wellness. She uses her personal, academic, and professional background as an asset to relate well with diverse clientele and to provide high quality service to them. Her goal is to help all of her clients connect their emotions to their thoughts and actions in light of the goals they have set for themselves. Furthermore, She is motivated to support clients in reframing the sources of their distress

Dr. Baul is a Certified Life Coach with a PhD in Organizational Leadership and an MBA in Marketing. In partnership with Rising Hope, she aims to help Rising Hope clients with creating the life they deserve intertwined during their healing process or beyond.  Are you ready to make a change in your life? 

Jimmie K. Memminger has spent over twenty years in varying leadership capacities in Mental/Behavioral Health in corrections as well as secure and non-secure care facilities. He has spent his career advocating against the injustices and inequalities plaguing adjudicated young men. Jimmie is equally dedicated to strengthening young men and men to be the best fathers they can be.

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Shykera has received her Masters in Social Work at Delaware State University.  She has worked in the mental health field for 7 years and specializes in working with adolescents, adults, and family therapy in both individual and group settings as well as inpatient mental health/substance abuse facilities.  I am experienced in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and family conflicts.

Joy is a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a strong desire to serve her community. Joy has a \Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University.  In the past decade, Joy has provided Mental Health and Substance Use therapy to a diverse range of clients, building a wealth of experience in addressing a variety of mental health and life issues

Leo Ward earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, with minors in Forensic Psychology and Social Work, from George Mason University in 2021. He then pursued a Master’s in Social Work at West Chester University, where he began his clinical practice. Currently, Leo holds an LMSW and actively working toward his LCSW, demonstrating his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge in the field.

Bennita is a Licensed Master of Social Work clinician. She has attended Delaware State University, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science, in Psychology. She also attended Wilmington University where she obtained her Master of Education, in School Counseling as well as obtained certifications in Children and Families Counseling and Mental Health Counseling. 

Janae Robinson is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW). She received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Wilmington University and her Master of Social Work from Delaware State University.  She is currently working on her Doctorate of Education in Community Care Counseling with a concentration in Marriage & Family Therapy. 

Lucian is a passionate therapist with over 8 years of experience working in different settings. She has a proven track record of success evoking change in her clients. Her goal is to meet you where you are in life, with the understanding that we all are unique in our experiences.

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Kelly Merrick has over 5 years experience as a community based therapist for children and youth in a higher level of care program. Kelly specializes in working with children and youth, ages 5-18. She also specializes working within the LGBTQ+ community as well as kids and teenagers who have been through trauma, more specifically sexual assault trauma. Kelly’s strengths are her understanding, her patience, and her empathetic nature.

Siloe is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who received her Master's degree from Lock Haven University. After working in trauma-informed, community based services for over 5 years, Siloe has found her niche in working with families and individuals with an attachment theory and relational lens.

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Joslynn is a master’s level therapist with a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Goldey-Beacom College.

She is passionate about working with individuals and families providing therapeutic interventions for people struggling with a variety of life and mental health issues.

Maegan Sanders has received a Masters in Higher Education Counseling/Student Affairs from West Chester University of Pennsylvania.

She has worked in the therapeutic and case management field for the past 6 years.

 Bernice Banks. has received a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Goldey Beacom College. 

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I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, motivation, and grief and loss.  In our sessions, I primarily focus on using a strength-based approach to empower clients as they work towards healing.

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Brent O’Neill is a 2022 graduate of Boston University, having earned a Master of Social Work and Master of Divinity.  Brent practiced Social Work in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, specializing in care for adults with Substance Use Disorders, as well as adolescents.  He has practiced in school-based settings, and he has extensive experience working in progressive faith-based and interfaith organizations.  Brent is interested in the intersections of LGBTQ+ identities, faith and culture, and affirming practices.

Joseph Blue is a master's level therapist with a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. ​Choosing to seek counseling is not a sign of weakness as it takes strength to be vulnerable. Whether you are the strong individual who feels pressured to hold it all together, the individual who feels as if everything is spiraling out of control, or the individual struggling to move on from your past, I am here for you. It is ok to take your mask off!