Meet the Team
Aaron Jones, MSW, LCSWA
Aaron Jones believes that everyone deserves a space where they can show up as they are, without pretending or performing, and be met with genuine care. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA), he walks alongside individuals, couples, and families across every stage of life, from children and adolescents to adults, offering steady support through some of life's hardest seasons.
Aaron earned his Master of Social Work from North Carolina Central University and his Bachelor of Social Work from Winston-Salem State University. His clinical background spans residential, community, and school-based settings, giving him a broad, grounded understanding of how people heal, not just in the therapy room, but in the context of their whole lives. He approaches each person with warmth, patience, and an unwavering belief in their capacity to grow. His style is client-centered and strengths-based, and for clients who welcome it, he is glad to incorporate faith and spiritual values into the work.
What matters most to Aaron is that clients leave each session feeling a little lighter, a little more understood, and a little more hopeful than when they walked in. He is honored to be part of the Upward Call Counseling team and looks forward to supporting you or your family on the path toward healing.
Specialties: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Grief & Loss, Family Conflict, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Stress Management, Mood Disorders.
LaShonda Dixon-Truesdell, M.MFT, LMFTA
Lashonda holds a BA in Psychology, an MA in Human Service Counseling Marriage and Family from Liberty University, and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University. She is a member of the AAMFT and Delta Kappa, the Honor Society of Marriage
and Family Therapy. Lashonda has experience working with clients in private practice and community mental health settings.
Lashonda takes an individualized, empathetic, and nonjudgemental approach with each client to
ensure they are heard and feel important. Lashonda’s extensive experience with the IDD/MH population has provided her with the knowledge and understanding of the importance of being person-centered. Lashonda utilizes evidence-based approaches including Emotionally Focused
Therapy (EFT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Lashonda utilizes Christian principles with the mindset of “…The Lord doesn’t see things the
way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1Samuel 16:7 NLT).
When not working with clients, Lashonda enjoys doing ministry outreach, spending time with
her family, and taking road trips. She is currently accepting new clients via telehealth.
Stephanie Williams, LCSW
Stephanie Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker certified by the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Alabama and is passionate about helping individuals and families achieve greater emotional wellness and life balance.
Stephanie is from Birmingham, Alabama and developed a strong family value system and utilizes practices that align with the client’s faith.
Stephanie also utilizes a strengths-based approach to therapy, empowering clients to recognize their abilities, build resilience, and develop a stronger sense of well-being.
Throughout her career, Stephanie has worked extensively with underserved communities. Her diverse clinical experience has equipped her with the skills to support clients facing a wide range of behavioral and emotional challenges. Stephanie has experience working with individuals (adults and children), families, couples, and stakeholders in the community.
Stephanie integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Informed Care while assisting clients with developing effective coping strategies.
Outside of her professional work, Stephanie enjoys traveling, participating in sports, spending time outdoors, and connecting with friends.
Adena Diggs, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Adena Diggs is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) who is deeply passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families experience healing, growth, and restoration. As both a mental health professional and a committed Christian, Adena believes that true healing involves caring for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Adena approaches counseling with warmth, authenticity, and compassion, creating a safe and supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and valued. She integrates evidence-based therapeutic practices with a Christ-centered perspective, meeting clients where they are while honoring their personal values, faith, and life experiences. Her work is grounded in the belief that God’s grace, combined with thoughtful clinical care, can foster meaningful change and emotional freedom.
With a collaborative and nonjudgmental style, Adena helps clients navigate anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and emotional pain, while also supporting them in developing insight, resilience, and healthy coping skills. She is especially passionate about helping clients process complex emotions, strengthen relationships, and grow in self-awareness and confidence.
Adena considers it a privilege to walk alongside clients on their healing journey and is committed to providing care that is both clinically sound and spiritually sensitive. Her goal is to help clients move toward hope, wholeness, and lasting transformation.
Ashlyn Arnold, MSW, LCSWA
Ashlyn believes that true healing and growth come from addressing the whole person—mind, body, spirit, and environment. She approaches therapy from a relational and wholistic perspective, integrating evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy, all within a biblical framework rooted in grace, truth, and hope.
Ashlyn holds an MSW from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and a Bachelors in Psychology from Louisiana State University.
Her training and experience in the Positive Parenting Program (Triple P), play therapy, and family therapy has shaped the way she understands the deep connection between individual healing and the family systems we are part of. These experiences have equipped her with practical tools and a compassionate lens to support not only individuals, but also parents and families navigating complex dynamics. With a background in ministry, Ashlyn also has extensive experience working with and mentoring teens in a variety of life circumstances navigating the unique struggles and feelings they encounter.
Ashlyn specializes in working with older children, teens, and young adults as they navigate the unique and often difficult transitions of their developmental stages. From questions of identity and purpose to struggles with anxiety, depression, or spiritual doubt, she aims to provide a safe and supportive space where clients feel known, valued, and empowered to grow—both emotionally and spiritually. Above all, Ashlyn considers it a sacred privilege to walk alongside individuals and families in their journeys toward healing, wholeness, and deeper relationship with God and others.
Ashlyn serves clients across North Carolina via Telehealth.
Melissa Penley, MAC, LCMHCA
Melissa Penley, MAC, LCMHCA is passionate about helping people in whatever stage of life that may be. Whether it is working with younger children and parents to help find solutions to struggles or concerns they are facing, or it is later in life where older adults may feel as if they do not have as much contentment as they once had. Her desire to help is what led her from the classroom to the therapy room.
While working in the school system, she discovered a love for listening and being present with the children in her classroom, which ultimately led her to pursue her dream of counseling.
Melissa holds two Master’s Degrees, one from the Pentecostal Theological Seminary, in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and she also has a Master’s from Liberty University in Human Services Counseling with a concentration in Crisis Response and Trauma. She is planning to begin a doctoral program later this year.
Melissa has been professionally counseling for several years and has served in multiple ministry capacities for over twenty-seven years.
She employs various therapeutic techniques including cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, play, expressive arts, and psychoeducation to help individuals and families achieve their personal goals. Melissa integrates faith based counseling into the therapeutic process upon request.
Melissa serves clients across North Carolina via Telehealth.
Jamilia Simmons, MSW, LCSWA
Ms. Simmons is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate with extensive experience providing compassionate care to children, adolescents, and adults facing mental health and substance use challenges. She has worked across diverse settings, including academic environments, residential programs, day treatment, hospital acute care, in-home, and community-based services. Her background also includes working with individuals with developmental disabilities and involvement with Child Protective Services.
Ms. Simmons utilizes evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Motivational Interviewing. Her clinical approach is integrative and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Offering counseling from a Christian perspective, Ms. Simmons is committed to supporting the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. She believes that true healing comes from God and integrates biblical truth, prayer, and Spirit-led guidance into her sessions for clients who desire to grow in their faith while addressing emotional and mental health concerns. Whether navigating anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, or life transitions, she provides a safe and supportive environment to process, reflect, and grow.
Ms. Simmons is honored to be part of Upward Call Counseling PLLC and looks forward to walking alongside you as you seek clarity, healing, and direction through your faith.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Winston-Salem State University and a Master of Social Work from Clark University. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Social Work at Morgan State University, where her research interests include social justice, facial recognition technology, colorism, algorithmic bias, and digital inclusion.
Paiga Brown, MSW, LCSWA
Paiga holds a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Winston-Salem State University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Florida. With a strong foundation in clinical practice and a deep understanding of developmental needs, she specialize in helping young people navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral challenges, and life transitions. Her approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to each child's unique strengths and experiences.
She believe in creating a safe, supportive space where children and teens feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow. She also value collaboration with families, schools, and other support systems to foster holistic healing and positive outcomes.
For clients who are interested, she is pleased to offer Christian counseling, integrating faith-based principles into the therapeutic process to support spiritual as well as emotional growth.
ELIANA DE LA ROSA, LCSWA
Eliana is a dedicated therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve healing, growth, and self-discovery. She specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflicts, working with both individuals and couples. Ellie believes in everyone’s potential for positive change.
She holds a BSW and MSW from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a Bachelor of Theology from Universidad Nuestro Pacto Internacional. Ellie is also fluent in Spanish.
In addition to her clinical work, Ellie serves as a local youth pastor, working with children (ages 6+), adolescents, young adults, and married couples. She integrates biblical principles into counseling for individuals who seek a faith-based approach to mental health. From a clinical perspective, she believes incorporating a client’s spiritual beliefs can enhance coping strategies, providing comfort, resilience, and a sense of hope and meaning—crucial in overcoming depression, anxiety, and trauma. Biblical teachings also emphasize forgiveness, grace, and healing, which can be powerful tools for reconciliation, processing past hurts, resolving relationship conflicts, and fostering self-acceptance. She also believes a faith-based approach can reinforce an individual’s sense of identity and intrinsic value, helping to counter negative thought patterns and promote self-compassion.
Ellie takes a holistic, client-centered approach, integrating evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Trauma-Informed Care, tailoring treatment to each client's unique needs. She emphasizes the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship, providing a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. Whether addressing past trauma, relationship difficulties, or personal growth, she is committed to guiding clients toward a more fulfilling life.
AMBER DILLARD, LCSW
Amber earned a Master of Social Work from East Carolina University in 2002 and is an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker). She enjoys meeting with clients of various ages and backgrounds. She has worked primarily with older children and adults providing individual, family, couples counseling and Christian Counseling. Amber has worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, adjusting to life challenges and stressors, as well as other emotional, relational and spiritual issues.
Amber is trained in both EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Sara Leiva, MSW, LCSW
Sara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She provides support for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship concerns, life transitions, and other emotional and behavioral challenges.
Sara is passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, build on their strengths, and work toward meaningful change. She believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and grow, regardless of where they are in their journey.
Her approach incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and faith-based counseling when desired. Sara works collaboratively with clients to develop practical coping skills, improve emotional well-being, and strengthen relationships.
Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your child, your relationship, or your family, Sara is committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and move toward healing, hope, and wellness.
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, ADHD, Child & Teen Counseling, Family Therapy, Couples Counseling, Emotional Regulation, Life Transitions, and Bilingual Spanish Counseling.
Bushra Ebneof, MS, LCSWA
Bushra holds a BA in Sociology, an MBA from Saint Leo University, and a Master’s in Social Work from USC. He served five years in the U.S. Army and speaks Sudanese Arabic.
Bushra has extensive experience working with clients facing challenges such as anxiety, anger management, PTSD, depression, substance use disorder, sleep disorders, military-related concerns, low self-esteem, and other trauma-related issues. He also specializes in supporting the veteran community and their families, helping them navigate the unique challenges they may face.
Bushra believes that therapy can be life-changing, especially during a crisis, Bushra views therapy as a collaborative process where you, the client, are the expert. Together, you’ll work to develop coping skills and solutions that are tailored to your specific needs.
Bushra creates a relaxed and affirming environment in his sessions, where clients can openly discuss their concerns. He listens to feedback and adjusts treatment based on what works for each individual. Utilizing various therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness, Bushra works with clients as a team to equip them with the tools needed to create positive, meaningful change in their lives.
Katie Smart MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Katie is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina. She has experience working with clients in day-treatment and private-practice settings. She graduated in December 2022 with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UNC Pembroke.
Katie approaches each client uniquely utilizing an integrative approach using cognitive behavioral, person-centered, and mindfulness-based therapies. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults who are dealing with mental health conditions associated with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and life-transitions. Her main goal is to approach clients with empathy while providing a calm environment for her clients to grow in.
Katie is passionate about combining Christian principles with a strong counseling foundation. Romans 12:2 says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Katie wants to provide a safe space for you to challenge your old ways of thinking to find healing and joy. She also provides traditional counseling options for those that do not want Christian-based counseling.
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Janelle Stitt, MSN FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
Janelle is a dual licensed, Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, providing medication evaluations and medication management. Janelle received her Associates in Nursing from Carolinas College of Health Sciences, Bachelors in Nursing from Winston Salem State University, Masters In Nursing with Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration from Simmons College and her Masters in Nursing with Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner concentration from Maryville University. Janelle will start her Doctorate in Nursing Practice Studies in January 2025.
Janelle is dedicated to serving others and follows the teachings of Jesus Christ. She employs a Faith-Based Integrative approach to healing the mind, body, and spirit, utilizing prayer, the Word of God, and practical resources like medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
Janelle has extensive experience in treating patients ages 5 and up and managing all Mental Health diagnoses, including Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, Trauma, Domestic Violence and Substance Use Disorders. Janelle also has experience in Primary Care and managing chronic diseases such as High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Obesity and High Cholesterol.
Janelle resides in Charlotte, NC with her husband and is blessed with 5 children and 1 grandson. Janelle loves to worship the Living God, travel, food, shopping and learning new things.
TAMARA WILLIAMS, LCMHC
Tamara F. Williams is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who is passionate about helping preteens, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and develop greater self-awareness. She provides support for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relationship concerns, behavioral challenges, and life transitions in a compassionate, client-centered environment.
With experience in community mental health, public schools, and juvenile justice settings, Tamara brings a well-rounded perspective to her work. She currently conducts assessments within the juvenile justice system and has extensive experience supporting youth and families through difficult circumstances.
Tamara utilizes evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based interventions, and trauma-informed care. She works collaboratively with clients to identify strengths, develop healthy coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and create meaningful change.
Tamara is honored to support individuals who have experienced trauma, including survivors of domestic violence, and is committed to providing a safe, supportive space where healing can occur. Virtual counseling appointments are available, including evening hours for added flexibility.
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Adolescent Counseling, Family Therapy, Couples Counseling, Domestic Violence Recovery, Behavioral Concerns, Emotional Regulation, and Life Transitions.
Christien Armour, LCMHCA, LCASA
Christien is a seasoned mental health professional with over a decade of experience, specializes in helping adults facing a variety of challenges, including developmental disabilities, behavioral health, career development, and substance abuse. She's worked with veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, and underserved populations in individual and group counseling settings.
Christien's approach is personalized and compassionate. She uses Christian principles with a strong counseling foundation. She believes in your unique journey and uses a warm, nonjudgmental style with a touch of humor. As your partner, she aims to empower you to make lasting changes through open and honest communication, emphasizing your strengths and challenging negative beliefs. You're not alone on this path to personal growth and well-being with Christien by your side.
Meet Donna Cobb, MPC, LCMHC, LCASA
Donna L. Cobb is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate in the state of North Carolina. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Secondary Education and a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling.
With more than twenty-four years of experience in education, Donna has taught in military, at-risk, and public-school settings. This extensive background has shaped her
passion and expertise in building meaningful, trusting relationships with adolescents and
teens facing developmental, social, and emotional challenges.
Donna has significant clinical experience counseling adolescents and teens struggling with self-image concerns, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. In addition, she has worked with adults navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, adjustment disorders, and relational concerns.
Donna’s therapeutic approach is integrative and client-centered. While she draws from multiple evidence-based modalities, her primary approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviors, SolutionFocused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to build upon clients’ existing strengths and successful
strategies, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to enhance emotional regulation and coping skills, and Experiential Therapy to foster deeper insight and emotional healing.
Known for her authenticity, professionalism, and unbiased support, Donna partners collaboratively with clients, walking alongside them as they develop the strength and
courage needed to confront obstacles, resolve emotional and relational conflicts, and create meaningful changes in their live.
Practice Areas
At Upward Call Counseling PLLC, our team of experienced professionals are here to provide you with the support you need to navigate life's many challenges. Our unique approach to counseling is 100% virtual, offering convenient and accessible solutions for all our clients. We offer specialized services to help you cope with
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Church hurt
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Trauma
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Addiction
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Breakups
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Self-worth
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Separation
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Divorce
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Communication
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Boundaries
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Infidelity
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Career stress
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Unexpected life events
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Identity crisis
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Rejection
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Transitions
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Relationships
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Self-esteem
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Professional burnout
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Coping strategies
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Abandonment
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Self discovery
Our compassionate, non-judgmental approach will provide you with the emotional support, understanding and guidance you need.