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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 has clinical experience in multiple settings including private practice, children’s hospitals, residential treatment centers, university research facilities, day treatment centers, and vocational rehabilitation facilities. Her integrative approach uses a variety of therapy methods such as play therapy, behavioral therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy to adapt to the needs of each client.
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Dr. Hirsh works to help clients of all ages reach their optimal level of functioning. She spent countless hours of research focused on identifying career interests in adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders and vocational identity formation among individuals with different types of disabilities. She also assists individuals with disabilities and their families with gaining intervention services in the community and the school system.
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 has over 20 years of combined experience counseling in private practice settings and residential programs, in addition to providing mental health support abroad on a remote Army base for military members, civilian contractors, and local nationals.
Mary Beth centers her role as a therapist specifically to the needs of each client, building a safe and trusting environment for individuals to explore the various stressors and symptoms that impact life. She uses a variety of evidenced-based methods to promote growth, healing, and transformation.​
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 has over 24 years of clinical experience working with adolescents and adults of all ages. In addition to her past work as a university counselor and disability coordinator, she also has experience with mental health day treatment programs, adult and geriatric partial hospital programs, and group therapy settings. She is passionate about bringing awareness to the signs and symptoms of mental health illness to the community.​
Grace sees therapy as a collaborative relationship and values honest communication that promotes nurturing, compassion, respect, and nonjudgment.
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
Stan Peck, MA, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
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Licensed Professional Counselor
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National Board for Certified Counselors
EXPERIENCE
Stan has 10 years of clinical experience working in private practice and inpatient settings with adolescents and adults. He utilizes a holistic and strength-based approach to help clients access their innate resilience to make progress toward healing and positive transformation. He applies faith-based counseling techniques for those clients wishing to incorporate faith as a resource for coping and personal growth.
EDUCATION
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Master’s Degree in Community Counseling (University of North Alabama)
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Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts (University of North Alabama)
SPECIALTIES
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Faith-Based Counseling
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Adolescents
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Family Therapy
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Substance Abuse
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Anxiety
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Depression
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.