our staff and therapists
Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S
Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S
Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S
**Owner/Therapist - Cullman Office**
Welcome to Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC! Founded by Sarah in 2018, our mission is to create a safe and comfortable environment for families seeking holistic mental health counseling services.
Sarah holds an Educational Specialist degree (Ed.S.) from the University of Mississippi, a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from The University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, as well as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor™️.
With extensive experience in addiction counseling, childhood trauma, ADHD, Autism, and parenting, Sarah is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy. She is also certified in trauma therapy and integrative medicine tailored for mental health practitioners.
At our practice, we offer innovative approaches such as animal-assisted psychotherapy, with Charlie—an AKC Certified Good Citizen, service dog, and valuable psychotherapy assistant—being an integral part of our team. Sarah is currently pursuing certification in this unique therapeutic method. Additionally, she specializes in EMDR therapy, further expanding her ability to support those in need.
When she’s not working, Sarah enjoys quality time with her husband, a retired teacher, and their family, which includes two sons, two granddaughters, and a grandson.
At Yellow Brick Road Counseling, we are here to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing and growth.
Sara Linkous Stephens, LPC-S
Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S
Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S
**Clinical Director/Therapist - Cullman Office**
Sara joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2018 as a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S). She earned her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2017 after completing her Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science from Athens State University in 2009.
In her practice, Sara is certified in AutPlay Therapy, a specialized approach designed to assist clients with learning disabilities and various diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. Additionally, she holds certifications in Parent-Child Interactive Therapy and Integrated Behavioral Medicine, complemented by extensive training in play therapy.
Sara is skilled in employing a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the unique needs of her clients. These include Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, EMDR, and Family Therapy, all of which contribute to her holistic approach to mental health support.
Outside of her professional commitments, Sara is married and values quality time spent outdoors alongside her three beloved dogs and various farm animals. Her blend of professional expertise and personal warmth makes her a dedicated advocate for her clients' well-being.
Mandy Laney, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S
Mandy Laney, MSN, PMHNP-BC
**Meet Mandy: Your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner**
We're excited to introduce Mandy, our newly joined psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC, who is now accepting new patients in our Cullman office and via telehealth.
With 19 years of nursing experience, including a decade of specialized practice in psychiatric mental healthcare, Mandy brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to her role. She is dedicated to serving our community and ensuring that both adolescents and adults receive the highest standard of mental health services.
Mandy collaborates closely with Dr. Leesha Ellis-Cox, our esteemed psychiatrist, to provide well-rounded and holistic care. Known for her strong clinical skills and her natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families, Mandy follows evidence-based guidelines infused with her clinical insights, personal observations, and intuition.
In her multifaceted role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Mandy serves not only as a provider of care but also as an educator and advocate for mental health. She champions interdisciplinary education and inter-professional collaboration, striving to treat the whole person with a patient-centered approach.
Mandy is passionate about addressing disparities in mental health services, particularly in rural communities, and actively seeks to innovate healthcare delivery. Her areas of special interest include the integration of behavioral medicine, trauma-informed care, and suicide prevention.
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, Mandy is here to help. Reach out today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward improved mental well-being!
Haley Satterfield
Haley Satterfield
Haley Satterfield
**Office Manager**
Haley joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling in 2022, bringing with her a wealth of experience in both customer service and management. She graduated from Snead State Community College in 2016 with an Associate in Science degree. Known for her professional demeanor and friendly approach, Haley plays a crucial role in ensuring that the office runs smoothly and that clients feel welcomed and supported.
Outside of work, Haley is passionate about singing and enjoys spending time on her grandfather's farmland, where she often goes searching for arrowheads. Her dedication to both her professional responsibilities and personal interests truly reflects her vibrant personality and commitment to community.
Julia Shelton
Haley Satterfield
Haley Satterfield
**Administrative Assistant**
Julia joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling in 2024, bringing a wealth of experience in mental health administration to our team. Her dedication to helping others is evident in her work, and she is committed to supporting our clients with a compassionate approach. Outside of her professional endeavors, Julia cherishes her time spent with family and her grandchildren, reflecting her warm and caring nature. We are delighted to have her on board and look forward to the positive impact she will make in our organization.
Claire Willis
Haley Satterfield
Claire Willis
**Adinistrative Assistant**
Claire joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling in 2024 as an Administrative Assistant. With a robust background in mental health administration, she plays a vital role in supporting the team’s mission to promote mental wellness. Currently, Claire is pursuing her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, further deepening her commitment to this essential field.
Before her journey into mental health, Claire earned a degree in finance, showcasing her diverse skill set and analytical mindset. This unique combination of expertise allows her to contribute effectively to the administrative aspects of the counseling center while remaining dedicated to her passion for mental health and wellness.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Claire enjoys attending live music events and cherishing moments with her husband and two beloved dogs. Her friendly demeanor and welcoming attitude make her an invaluable asset to the Yellow Brick Road Counseling team.
Kori Cowan, LPC
Cindy Perry, LPC
Kori Cowan, LPC
Cullman Office
Kori joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2019 and brings with her over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout her career, she has worked in various settings, gaining valuable insights and skills that enhance her practice. Kori specializes in addressing a range of issues, including substance abuse, youth offenders, ADHD, and other mental health challenges.
As a dedicated professional, Kori believes in creating a safe and supportive environment for her clients. Her friendly demeanor and extensive experience make her an approachable therapist who is committed to helping individuals find their path to wellness. Outside of her professional life, Kori is a mother of two and enjoys running, which contributes to her holistic approach to mental health.
Kori is here to guide you on your journey toward healing and growth, ensuring that you feel heard, understood, and supported at every step.
Narda Harp, LPC
Cindy Perry, LPC
Kori Cowan, LPC
Trussville Office
Narda is a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. She graduated with Honors from Capella University, where she earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, specializing in General Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Before joining Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2019, Narda gained valuable experience working at a private hospital in the Birmingham area. There, she provided compassionate care to adults, teens, and adolescents facing severe mental illnesses through individual and family therapy sessions. Her expertise extends to facilitating processes, mental health, and recreational groups tailored for all age groups.
Outside of her professional work, Narda actively participates in various civic organizations as a volunteer, demonstrating her commitment to the community. When she’s not working or volunteering, she enjoys staying active as an avid runner and cherishes quality time with her husband and child.
Narda’s professional approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, making her a trusted ally for those seeking guidance and support
Cindy Perry, LPC
Cindy Perry, LPC
Bethany Griffis, LPC
Huntsville Office
Cindy is a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor who has been an integral part of Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC since 2019. With a solid foundation in education, she earned her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Athens State University in 1989. Over the course of 15 years, she brought joy and learning to young minds as a kindergarten teacher in Huntsville City Schools.
Cindy furthered her expertise by obtaining a Master's degree in School Counseling from Alabama A & M University. This paved the way for a successful 17-year career with Madison City Schools, where she made a significant impact on the lives of countless students.
Beyond her professional achievements, Cindy is a family-oriented individual. She is happily married and has raised two wonderful children, with the exciting news of a grandchild on the way! During her leisure time, she enjoys playing tennis, which keeps her active and engaged.
Cindy's compassionate approach and extensive experience make her a trusted ally for those seeking guidance and support in their personal journeys.
Bethany Griffis, LPC
Kristy T. Black, LPC, NCC
Bethany Griffis, LPC
Cullman Office
Bethany joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2019, where she completed her internships working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Montevallo and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Alabama. As a Nationally Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor, she utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques, including play therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Bethany enjoys spending time with her dog and cat, pursuing her passion for writing, and engaging in creative hobbies such as knitting and needle felting. Her professional approach fuses expertise with warmth, creating a welcoming environment for her clients.
Blake Townsend, LPC
Kristy T. Black, LPC, NCC
Kristy T. Black, LPC, NCC
Cullman Office
Blake is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been a valuable member of the Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC team since 2020. Blake earned his Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Alabama at Birmingham. His relevant experience includes an internship as a trauma and behavior therapist at Clay House Child Advocacy Center, where he developed a strong foundation for addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.
In his practice, Blake predominantly works with children and teens, utilizing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Child-Centered Play Therapy. He is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for his clients, helping them navigate their emotions and challenges.
Outside of his counseling work, Blake has a few passions that keep his spirit lively. He thoroughly enjoys paintball and is an avid video gamer. Additionally, he proudly admits to being obsessed with Marvel superheroes, often drawing inspiration from their stories of resilience and bravery.
If you are seeking a compassionate counselor who understands the unique needs of younger clients, Blake is here to help you on your journey toward healing and growt
Kristy T. Black, LPC, NCC
Kristy T. Black, LPC, NCC
Kristy T. Black, LPC, NCC
Cullman Office
Kristy is a dedicated and highly qualified therapist. Kristy is a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor, having joined our team in 2022, she brings an impressive background in education.
Kristy has served as a School Counselor and teacher for the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) in Europe, bringing over 26 years of public school teaching experience and an additional 10 years as an adjunct instructor. Her educational journey began with an undergraduate degree from Athens State University, followed by two Master’s degrees in Secondary Education from the University of Alabama-Birmingham (2000) and the University of North Alabama (2007). In 2008, she furthered her education with a Master’s in Administration from the University of North Alabama. Additionally, she earned her Education Specialist (ED.S.) degree in Science from the University of Alabama in 2007 and her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction in 2011 from the same institution.
In 2017, Kristy transitioned into mental health by earning her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Alabama. Her comprehensive education and experience allow her to provide exceptional care to her clients.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Kristy enjoys reading, spending time with family, and engaging in running and walking. She has a passion for learning and traveling, and she loves all things related to football and various sports, including hiking and paragliding. In particular, she is a devoted fan of the UA Crimson Tide, passionately supporting her team at every opportunity.
Kristy has been happily married for 30 years and is the proud mother of two sons. With her friendly and professional demeanor, Kristy looks forward to guiding you on your journey toward mental wellness.
Shaquilla Gibbons-Robinson, LMFTA
Shaquilla Gibbons-Robinson, LMFTA
Shaquilla Gibbons-Robinson, LMFTA
Therapist
Cullman Office
Shaquilla Gibbons-Robinson joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2022 as an intern. She is currently an associate Marriage and Family Therapist working towards her licensure under the clinical supervision of Charice Calloway, LMFT. She graduated from Valdosta State University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Art degree in psychology and in June of 2023, she received her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from Capella University. Also during her time at Capella, she received her graduate certification in contemporary theory in couples and family systems. In her free time she enjoys reading and spending time with her husband and 6 fur babies. She just became a mother to a sweet baby girl!
Laine Martin, ALC
Shaquilla Gibbons-Robinson, LMFTA
Shaquilla Gibbons-Robinson, LMFTA
Therapist
Cullman Office
Laine is an Associate Licensed Counselor under the supervision of Sara Stephens, LPC-S. Laine joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC, in January 2024 as an intern. Laine earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Alabama in 2024. She is a Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Honor Society and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society member. Laine earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Athens State University in 2018, where she graduated magna cum laude. From 2017 - 2020, Laine served as a research assistant under Athens State’s Department of Behavioral Sciences on two suicide awareness, prevention, intervention, and outreach grants funded by The Alabama Department of Public Health, Alabama Higher Education Suicide Prevention Program grant.
Laine works with children, adolescents, and adults. She believes counseling should be tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. Therefore, while primarily working from a Person-Centered Approach, she uses an Integrative Approach incorporating techniques from Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Interventions. Laine looks forward to building a therapeutic relationship with you at Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC!
Chanda Dobbs, ALC, NCC
Shaquilla Gibbons-Robinson, LMFTA
Chanda Dobbs, ALC, NCC
Therapist
Cullman Office
Chanda is an associate licensed counselor, under the supervision of Sara Stephens, LPC-S. Chanda joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling in 2024. She is a nationally certified counselor. She earned her master’s degree in counseling from the University of West Alabama, where she also earned a Master’s degree in teaching mathematics. She has experience working with adolescents and children for over twenty years in education.
Charlotte Jones, ALC
Gunter Chenoweth, MA Intern
Chanda Dobbs, ALC, NCC
Therapist
Cullman Office
Charlotte is an Associate Licensed Counselor under the supervision of Sara Stephens, LPC-S. She is a Nationally Certified Counselor by the National Board of Certified Counselors. She joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2024. She received her Bachelor's Degree in psychology and social work from University of Alabama in Birmingham in 2020. She received her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella university in 2024. She is a combat veteran who medically retired from the US Army in 2018 after a 15 year service. She has experience working in crisis intervention with the mobile crisis team. She has experience working with individuals with severe mental health issues as well as substance abuse issues. She has past experience working with traumatized children and families involved in domestic violence. She has past experience in teaching parenting classes and support groups. She has 3 sons ages 18, 16, and 13. During free time she enjoys spending time with her children and family. She enjoys learning new things, visiting new places, museums, amusement parks, and all things traveling.
Gunter Chenoweth, MA Intern
Gunter Chenoweth, MA Intern
Gunter Chenoweth, MA Intern
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern
Cullman Office
Gunter is currently a student at Colorado Christian University where he is working on his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He is under the site supervision of Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S, LPC-S. He received his Bachelor’s in Psychology from Athens State University in 2021 along with a certificate in Child Advocacy Studies Training. When not with clients he volunteers with a robotics program, reads, and spends time with his two dogs.
Ashley Perry, MA Intern
Gunter Chenoweth, MA Intern
Gunter Chenoweth, MA Intern
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern
Cullman Office
Ashley joined the Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2024 as a counseling intern. She received bachelor's degrees in Biblical Studies and Elementary Education in 2012 and continued to work as a teacher and in school administration for 13 years. Ashley has dedicated time to college and children's ministry work as well as work overseas in Uganda building community resources, teaching, and caring for orphans. Additionally, she worked alongside DHR to support families in their journey toward reunification for 3 years and has experience medically caring for elderly patients. Her experiences have shaped the passion she has for counseling and has promoted a desire to work with children, adolescents, women, families, and couples. She uses an integrative therapeutic approach grounded in person-centered mindfulness, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is proven to foster growth and resilience in clients.When Ashley is not working with clients, she enjoys spending time with her husband of 12 years and their three children. She focuses on hobbies that promote connectedness to nature and family such as hiking, kayaking, traveling, and trying new things.
Melissa Evans, LICSW
Melissa Evans, LICSW
Melissa Evans, LICSW
Therapist
Huntsville Office -Weatherly Plaza
Melissa is a graduate of the University of Alabama. She has worked with Madison County families that have experiencing trauma for 15 years and is certified in treating trauma. Melissa offers a wide range of mental health treatment and often implements expressive forms of therapy such as play, art, and sand tray. Melissa is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and she is certified in Trauma Play Therapy. Her motto is: "Play is the highest form of research!"
Tara Slay, ALC
Melissa Evans, LICSW
Melissa Evans, LICSW
Therapist
Huntsville Office/Morgan County Schools
Tara is an Associate Licensed Counselor, supervised by Sarah Brickell, Ed.S., NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S. She joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling in 2023. She received her master's degree from Jacksonville State University.
Lora Baker, ALC
Melissa Evans, LICSW
Ronald Scott Howard, ALC
Therapist
Oneonta Office
Lora joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2022. She earned her Bachelor's in Psychology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2017 and her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Montevallo in 2022. She has extensive training and is a registered student of Psychodrama and Sociometry pursuing certification since 2019. Lora is an Associate Licensed Counselor under the supervision of Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S. She utilizes therapeutic modalities and interventions such as CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness, and Yoga and will soon be getting training in Play-Therapy and other modalities. Her areas of interest are in working with trauma, self-esteem issues, addictions, anxiety and depression, spirituality, emotional regulation, and developing communication skills. In her free time, she enjoys playing with her cats, going to the gym, drawing/painting, writing poetry, or enjoying the great outdoors by hiking, camping, or kayaking with her friends and brother.
Ronald Scott Howard, ALC
Ronald Scott Howard, ALC
Ronald Scott Howard, ALC
Therapist
Oneonta and Cullman Office
Scott joined Yellowbrick Road Counseling LLC in 2023. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and received his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University with Honors. Scott is an Associate Licensed Counselor under the supervision of Sarah Brickell, Ed,S, NCC, RPT-S, LPC-S. He has been married for 21 years and has two sons. He enjoys working with clients of all ages and is currently in Oneonta 3 days a week and Cullman 1 day a week. Cullman Office
Julianna Moreno, ALC
Ronald Scott Howard, ALC
Elizabeth Bynum, ALC
Therapist
Cropwell Office
Julianna joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling, LLC in 2023. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of West Alabama. Julianna is an Associate Licensed Counselor under the supervision of Sarah Brickell, Ed.S, NCC, RPT-S™️, LPC-S.
Elizabeth Bynum, ALC
Ronald Scott Howard, ALC
Elizabeth Bynum, ALC
Therapist
Cullman
Liz joined Yellow Brick Road Counseling in 2023 as an intern while completing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She received her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Samford University and her Master’s from the University of West Alabama. She is working towards full licensure under the clinical supervision of Sara Stephens LPC-S.
Liz has experience working with children, adolescents and adults. She has experience working with at risk youth and their families to develop a strong family system that allows for the child and family to thrive in their community and life. Liz also has experience in trauma and crisis counseling as well as marriage and family counseling. She has a passion for music and art and enjoys integrating them into therapy as another way for the client to express themselves. She has experience using play therapy with clients of all ages and plans to become certified in play therapy.
In Liz’s free time she loves spending time with her husband and with her three little boys and baby girl. She is an avid runner and believes therapy can also be found in nature and mindful movement.