KOEN COUNSELING AND WELLNESS CENTER
FROM SURVIVING TO THRIVING
Dr. Nina Koen, LCSW
Title: Chief Executive Director & Therapist
Location: Herrin, IL, Telehealth
Contact: nina@koencwc.com
Payment: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, UHC, Healthlink, Deaconness, Illinois Medicaid, BCBS Community, Molina, Meridian, & Tricare.
Hi! Let me tell you a little bit about myself. I have approximately 17 years of experience in social work, providing counseling to adolescents and adults. At the end of 2021, I decided to open my own private practice to help fill the need of long waitlists for counseling services and that was the beginning of Koen Counseling and Wellness Center.
My areas of practice are with clients struggling with trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, and depression. I opened this private practice because there is a need for more counseling providers to help those looking for new ways to cope. I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting techniques as well.
In August 2021, I started attending Barry University to obtain my doctorate in Social Work. This has been my long-term goal that was completed in August 2024. During my doctorate classes, I have learned so much about how the brain functions and the body responds to stress and trauma.
I love supporting clients and being there for them when they are putting in the hard work to heal...yes, hard work. It isn't easy to show up as a client and work on yourself to heal.
Nikki Jeters, LCPC
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin, IL
Contact: nikki@koencwc.com
Payment: Private pay, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UHC, Health Link, Health Alliance, Medicaid, BCBS Community, Molina, Meridian, & Tricare.
My name is Nikki Jeters. I’m a wife and mother and love being active. I have my Master’s in Educational Psychology and graduated from Southern Illinois University. I have over 10 yrs of providing mental health and substance use therapy.
I am client centered and also use other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapies. I really enjoy helping my clients navigate through life and assist with problem solving and accomplishing goals. I believe you are the expert in your life and I am here to assist you in indentifying your needs and gaining confidence in executing tasks.
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Brenna Howerton, MSW, LSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin, & Telehealth
Contact: brenna@koencwc.com
Payment: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, BCBS Community, Molina, & Meridian.
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Hello, I’m Brenna. In 2022, I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC). My journey in the behavioral health field is driven by a deep passion to help individuals not only survive but thrive. I believe that healing is built on a foundation of empathy, trust, and understanding, and it is truly a privilege to support my clients through their transformative journeys.
At the core of my practice is a commitment to providing client-centered, trauma-informed care. I believe that everyone has the right to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life, and my mission is to be a trusted partner in helping you achieve your goals. I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and challenges.
With professional experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Additionally, I am trained in Brainspotting, a powerful therapeutic tool that can help deepen the healing process.
Outside of work, I enjoy dancing, running with my dog, and the occasional video game.
I look forward to embarking on this journey with you toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Crystal Shulda, MSW, LSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin and Telehealth
Contact: crystal@koencwc.com
Payment: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, BCBS Community, Molina, & Meridian.
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Hello, I’m Crystal Shulda, a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) dedicated to helping individuals and families strengthen their bonds and overcome life’s challenges. My approach is rooted in compassion, with a focus on healing and recovery. I have extensive experience providing trauma-informed therapy, counseling for substance use disorders, crisis intervention, and parent-and-youth-focused therapy.
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One of my core strengths is my proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL), which enables me to offer inclusive therapy services to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. My commitment to accessibility and inclusivity reflects my passion for serving individuals of all backgrounds and needs.
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I also bring a deeply empathetic approach to therapy, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can heal and grow. Additionally, I have recently received training in Brainspotting, an advanced therapeutic technique designed to enhance the healing process.
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I look forward to working with you on your journey to well-being.
Jason Palagi, MSW, LSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin, virtual, & telehealth
Contact: jason@koencwc.com
Payments: Private pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, BCBS Community, Molina, & Meridian.
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Hello, I'm Jason Palagi, a social worker who works with individuals aged 16 and older. My therapeutic approach involves empathy, compassion, and a strong desire to foster positive change. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a robust and evidence-based therapy that helps clients process and overcome trauma.
I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can heal, grow, and achieve their personal goals. Whether addressing trauma, navigating life transitions, or managing mental health challenges, I am here to offer my support every step of the way.
Jason Plichta, LPC
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin & Virtual
Contact: jasonp@koencwc.com
Payment: Private Pay, BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid, BCBS Community, Molina, & Meridian.
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My name is Jason and I am thrilled to be joining the Koen CWC family. I graduated with my masters in May 2024 and obtained my LPC in August 2024. I am interested in working with clients who have suffered trauma, and especially with first responders. I bring with me over 17 years of law enforcement experience, including one year working at a state-run juvenile prison. During my time as a police officer I have been involved in numerous things, including creating a therapy k-9 unit, the team coordinator for a county hostage/crisis negotiations team, a crash reconstructionist, a member of peer support teams, trained by the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation in individual and group debriefings, and even an instructor in schools on mental health.
I have been married to my wife Alexis for over 13 years and have a four-legged son named Gary. We are originally from the Chicagoland area, but moved to southern Illinois in 2018 to get away from the hustle and bustle that the north offered.
Again, I am excited to join this team and to work and learn alongside everyone. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you may have.
Deanna Charles, LSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin & Virtual
Contact: deanna@koencwc.com
Payment: Private Pay, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, IL Medicaid, BCBS Community, Molina, & Meridian.
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Hi! I’m Deanna Charles, a Licensed Social Worker, and I’m so glad you’re here. This is the first step towards becoming a happier, healthier YOU, and that’s a big deal!
In 2020, I graduated with my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. Since then, I’ve worked as a school social worker, supporting both general and special education students with behavioral and emotional difficulties like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
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Through my work with children and adolescents, I’ve facilitated with setting goals, identifying emotions, developing positive coping and social skills, improving relationships, and building positive and sustainable self-esteem. I often incorporate games, fidgets, or crafts into sessions, as learning through play goes beyond just learning—it’s about connecting, practicing, and understanding new things in a way that’s relevant. This approach is not only developmentally appropriate but also proven to stimulate brain development and make meaningful changes.
My approach is always client-centered and trauma-informed, ensuring a comfortable and empathetic environment. I believe that with the right support and encouragement, everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling and satisfying life. In our sessions, I will incorporate a mix of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. In addition to my existing experience, I am committed to expanding my knowledge by exploring new strategies to help guide you toward healing.
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While I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents, I’m also passionate about supporting teens, young adults, and early adults on their journey toward healing and personal growth. I truly believe that psychoeducation—understanding the “why” behind behaviors and thought patterns—can unlock powerful healing and transformation.
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If you’re ready to take the next step in improving your mental health and creating a more fulfilling life, I can help! I am currently accepting in-person and telehealth clients!
Christopher Higdon, MSW, LCSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Herrin & Virtual
Contact: chris@koencwc.com
Payment: Private, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UHC, Healthlink, HealthAlliance, & IL Medicaid
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Christopher Higdon, MSW, LCSW, is a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker, an alum of Southern Illinois University where he earned both his Bachelor of Science in Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees. Christopher honed his expertise through the Trauma-Based Behavioral Health fellowship, delving into the clinical intricacies of trauma and specializing in Trauma-Informed practices.
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Residing in Carterville with his husband, daughter, and their two beloved King Charles spaniels, Levi and Jake, Christopher finds joy in a diverse array of activities. He indulges in exploring wineries, revels in live music and concerts, and delights in discovering new culinary experiences at restaurants.
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With a rich professional background, Christopher’s career spans various facets of social work, including outpatient therapy, crisis interventions, case management, and inpatient psychiatric care. His specialized focus lies in aiding individuals dealing with depression, mood and anxiety disorders, among other areas. Christopher is actively pursuing certification as a Sexual Addiction Therapist, further expanding his ability to support clients facing these challenges.
Amy Creek Koehn, LCPC
Title: Therapist
Contact: amy@koencwc.com
Location: Benton School District/ Herrin, IL
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a deep passion for helping individuals find their path to emotional well-being and personal growth. For over 13 years, I have been dedicated to serving the child welfare population, working with children, adolescents, and adults as they navigate a wide range of challenges.
My journey into the field of counseling began at McKendree University, where I earned my Master’s degree in Professional Counseling in December 2010. Throughout my career, I have developed a strong expertise in various areas of practice, with a focus on helping individuals manage depression, anxiety, trauma, and adjustment-related difficulties. It has been incredibly fulfilling to guide clients through the healing process, instilling a sense of security, hope, and empowerment as they move toward living more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
As a counselor, I am a firm believer in the importance of personal growth and lifelong learning. I remain committed to my own professional development by continually expanding my knowledge and therapeutic approaches to provide the highest quality of care. I am honored to be part of each client’s healing journey and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those seeking support, guidance, and transformation.
Donna Burroughs, MSW, LSW
Title: Therapist
Contact: donna@koencwc.com
Location: Benton School District/ Herrin, IL
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Hello! I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW). I obtained my Master's in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale while serving as a Trauma Fellow at the SIUC School of Medicine, where I acquired a comprehensive range of trauma-informed approaches.
I am passionate about advocating for children and assisting them to process their emotions and learn coping mechanisms for various life circumstances through trauma-informed techniques. I encourage children with positive affirmations to help motivate them and build their self-esteem while ensuring the clients are mentally and emotionally prepared for any additional obstacles.
Patrick Brown, LCSW
Title: Therapist
Location: Virtual Only
Contact: patrick@koencwc.com
Payment: Private pay, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UHC, Aetna, Deaconess, Medicaid, BCBS Community, Molina, Meridian, & Tricare. ​
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I'm Patrick, and I am dedicated to helping individuals recognize and optimize themselves to their full potential through self-empowerment.
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I am a highly accomplished Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and obtained my Master's in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. My professional journey includes serving as a Trauma Fellow at the SIUC School of Medicine, where I honed a comprehensive repertoire of trauma-informed approaches. As the former clinical director at Brehm Preparatory School, I supported individuals facing complex learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, social/emotional issues, and other learning challenges. Furthermore, my tenure at Pasadena Villa Smoky Mountain Lodge has equipped me with invaluable experience catering to patients with high acuity needs and a wide array of complex diagnoses.
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I am deeply committed to meeting clients' needs through a comprehensive, evidence-based approach that yields positive outcomes. Guided by client-centered philosophy, I implement a range of best practice therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing. By utilizing these approaches, I strive to empower individuals on their path to growth and well-being.
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Outside of my professional pursuits, I enjoy spending quality time with my wife and daughter. I also embrace outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and playing sports.