about
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Kristen Hirsh, PhD
Licensed Psychologist
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
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Licensed Psychologist (Alabama)
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ADOS Certified (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)
EXPERIENCE
Dr. Hirsh is a licensed psychologist with extensive clinical experience spanning multiple settings, including private practice, children’s hospitals, residential treatment centers, university research facilities, day treatment centers, and vocational rehabilitation programs. With over 15 years in private practice, Dr. Hirsh brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her work with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families.
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Dr. Hirsh’s research has focused on career interest identification in adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders and vocational identity formation among individuals with various disabilities. This background informs her commitment to supporting individuals as they navigate academic, social, and vocational challenges.
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She has extensive training and experience in psychological assessment, including formal training in the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Dr. Hirsh has helped many individuals with disabilities and their families obtain vital educational and community-based services, advocating for appropriate support within the school system and through specialized interventions.
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In therapy, Dr. Hirsh uses an eclectic and integrative approach tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Her therapeutic techniques include play therapy, behavioral therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). She is dedicated to helping individuals with a wide range of psychological concerns and learning differences, empowering them to reach their highest potential and achieve meaningful personal growth.
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Dr. Hirsh’s professional philosophy centers on empathy, collaboration, and respect for individual differences. She remains passionate about fostering resilience and well-being in every client she serves.
EDUCATION
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Doctorate in Philosophy in Counseling Psychology (University of Memphis)
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Master’s Degree in Counseling (University of Alabama at Birmingham)
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Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (University of Alabama at Birmingham)
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Postdoctoral Fellowship in Developmental Psychology (Vanderbilt University School of Medicine & Monroe Carell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt)
SPECIALTIES
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Comprehensive Autism Evaluations
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ADHD Assessments
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Learning Disability Assessments
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Individual Psychotherapy
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Mood and Anxiety Disorders
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Differential Diagnosis
Mary Beth Dawicki, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
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Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
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Gottman Level 2
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Advanced Trauma Treatment for Children & Adolescents
EXPERIENCE
Mary Beth is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of combined experience providing mental health services in private practice settings and residential programs. Her career has also taken her abroad, where she provided mental health support on a remote Army base to military members, civilian contractors, and local nationals, deepening her appreciation for cultural diversity and resilience in challenging environments.
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Mary Beth is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and trusting therapeutic environment where clients can openly explore the stressors, symptoms, and life circumstances that affect their well-being. She tailors her approach to the unique needs of each individual, meeting clients where they are and helping them move toward personal growth and healing.
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Utilizing a range of evidence-based therapeutic methods, Mary Beth empowers clients to gain insight, build coping strategies, and foster lasting transformation. Her compassionate and collaborative style encourages self-discovery and helps clients navigate life’s challenges with renewed strength and clarity.
EDUCATION
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Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (Boston University)
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Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling (Lesley University)
SPECIALTIES
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Couples Therapy
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Anxiety & Anxiety-Based Disorders
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OCD Management
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ADHD
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Grief & Loss
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Trauma
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Life Transitions
Grace Arnold, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
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Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
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Certified Mental Health First Aid Trainer
EXPERIENCE
Grace is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience working with adolescents and adults across the lifespan. She has provided care in a variety of settings, including adult and geriatric partial hospitalization programs, community mental health day treatment programs, and university counseling centers. Her work has encompassed individual, couples, and group therapy, as well as supporting the unique challenges faced by university students in her role as both a counselor and disability coordinator.
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Grace is also a Certified Mental Health First Aid Trainer and is passionate about promoting mental health awareness. She regularly conducts trainings to help individuals recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges and understand the resources available for support and recovery.
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Grace views therapy as a collaborative relationship built on trust, honesty, and respect. She strives to create a nurturing, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore past and present experiences that may be contributing to anxiety, depression, or life transitions.
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By fostering insight and self-awareness, Grace helps her clients feel empowered to confront current challenges and build the future they envision for themselves. Her goal is to guide individuals toward greater emotional well-being, resilience, and fulfillment in their lives.
EDUCATION
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Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology (Alabama A&M University)
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Bachelor’s Degree (Oakwood University)
SPECIALTIES
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Couples Therapy
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Family & Parenting
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Life Transitions
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School Challenges
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Stress Management
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Coping Skills
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Eating Disorders
Daniel Crawford, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
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Licensed Professional Counselor
EXPERIENCE
With over 25 years of experience in the field of mental health, Daniel is a dedicated and compassionate counselor committed to helping individuals achieve personal growth and emotional well-being. His primary theoretical orientations include Cognitive Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy, which he integrates to meet the unique needs of each client.
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Daniel’s extensive background encompasses work with diverse mental health populations, including behaviorally and emotionally disturbed children and adolescents, combat veterans, individuals struggling with addiction, and those coping with trauma. His career began at a residential treatment facility for children and teenagers, where he developed a deep understanding of behavioral and emotional challenges in youth.
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Over the past 17 years, Daniel has served in hospitals, mental health agencies, and private practice settings, providing therapy to clients presenting a wide range of mental health disorders.
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As a military veteran and member of a military family, Daniel has been exposed to diverse cultures and communities throughout his life. This experience has shaped his deep appreciation for cultural diversity and his openness to individuals from all backgrounds. His commitment to inclusivity and respect for each client’s unique experiences are central to his therapeutic practice.
EDUCATION
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Master’s Degree in Counseling (University of Alabama at Birmingham)
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Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (University of Alabama at Birmingham
SPECIALTIES
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Children and Adolescents
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Military Members, Veterans, and Families
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Grief and Loss
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Anxiety and Depression
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Stress Management
Kelsey Rae Wright McKannan, M.Ed.
Psychometrist
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
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ADOS Certified
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Georgia Educator Certificate in School Psychology
EXPERIENCE
With a background in psychology and specialized training in clinical testing procedures, Kelsey plays a key role in supporting accurate diagnoses of neurological, developmental, and psychiatric conditions. Known for her patient-centered approach and commitment to ethical standards, she ensures that each assessment is conducted with precision, care, and cultural sensitivity.
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Kelsey is experienced in creating safe, supportive environments where young children and teenagers can express themselves, work through challenges, and build resilience. She empowers both children and parents to develop healthy communication patterns and stronger emotional bonds.
EDUCATION
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Education Specialist in School Psychology (Georgia State University)
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Master’s Degree in School Psychology (Georgia State University)
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Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (Georgia College & State University)
SPECIALTIES
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Neuropsychological Assessments
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Children & Adolescents
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Family Dynamics
Sara McGinness
Office Administrator
EXPERIENCE
With over a decade of experience serving her community, Sara brings a unique blend of empathy and efficiency to her role here at The Health Sense. Known for keeping even the busiest practices running like clockwork, she ensures that our clients and providers experience smooth, stress-free visits—from the first phone call to follow-up care.
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Behind the scenes, Sara’s the engine that drives scheduling systems, compliance protocols, billing accuracy, and team coordination. Up front, she’s a reassuring presence for clients navigating everything from insurance confusion to appointment anxiety.
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