LaBryon Williams, MA, LPC
Therapist/Owner
Sometimes life brings us experiences and relationships that are unhealthy, traumatic and painful. Finding your way through that pain and learning how to cope, while creating the life you want and developing the skills you need, can feel impossible. While life brings challenges there can also be those bright spots where you connect with another person, whether a teacher, coach or friend, that can make all the difference.
While playing in high-pressure and competitive sports in high school and college and serving in the United States military, I learned that a person can do more than they ever imagined, but also that the team you surround yourself with is critical to success. I have a passion for helping others through counseling because I believe in the strength that people have deep inside them, even when they don’t see it yet. Even when they doubt it.
After my time in the United States Navy I obtained my bachelor degree from Missouri Valley College and then my Master’s Degree in Counseling from Webster University. My over 20 years of experience in mental health treatment has included working with clients of various ages, socio-economic backgrounds, and identities. In 2015 I decided to open my own counseling practice with the goal of increasing access and the quality of mental health care in Southwest Missouri.
In my spare time I enjoy rooting for my home state teams the Tennessee Titans and Tennessee Volunteers, watching documentaries and auto racing and spending time with friends and family.
Amelia Lo, MSW, LCSW
Therapist
Amelia has a Masters Degree in Social Work from Missouri State University and a Bachelors Degree in Social Work from Evangel University in Springfield, MO.
Amelia grew up in Kaneohe, HI and always loved reaching out to others and meeting their needs in difficult circumstances. After working various jobs in the customer service industry, she decided to pursue further education at Evangel University in 2006 where she was inspired to match her passion for others with a degree that would help others in a tangible way.
Much of Amelia’s clinical experience is based with patients and families facing medical crises and having limited resources. She enjoys working with clients with a variety of clinical issues. She has passion for meeting clients where they are — using an individualized approach— and finding facets in a client’s life that can inspire them to move forward. She enjoys working with a variety of ages and issues at Counseling Group of The Ozarks. She operates from clinical approaches of cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Amelia believes that life can be hard, but people are never meant to face their struggles and triumphs alone.
Amelia enjoys reading, crafting, and baking in her spare time. She is a tolerable singer and enjoys documentaries that spark great discussion.
Robyn Taft, MA, LPC-S, C-DBT
Therapist
Everyone should have a therapist at some point because none of us are immune to the struggles of life. I am so passionate about breaking down the stigma of mental health and striving toward a society where we can be open about our problems and are not shunned for doing so. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment for you to talk about anything you want, even if it is just a time where I am able to hold space as you process.
In regard to experience, I acquired a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Family Studies from John Brown University in 2009, and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in 2011. I have an extensive background in criminal justice, both with teens and adults, and have worked with sexually maladaptive behaviors and substance abuse for over five years. I have more than two years experience with faith-based counseling and Autism Spectrum, and I am well-versed in assisting with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. I am also certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
In my spare time I love anything related to being in/around water, being with my people, actively participating in church, spending time with my fur children, and trying new food trucks. I love all things fall, and on any given Saturday you will find me glued to the TV watching college football and shamelessly calling those Hogs.
Felicia Typaldos, MS, NCC, LPC
Therapist
My name is Felicia Typaldos and I am a licensed professional counselor here at Counseling Group of the Ozarks. In my free time I enjoy playing with my two cats, watching anime, reading books, and learning. I like learning so much that I graduated from Missouri State University twice. Once for my bachelors in psychology and once for my Masters in clinical mental health counseling.
My path to being a counselor began with personal tragedy involving the sudden death of a loved one. I went to therapy and it was an immense help while I tried to hold myself together. These events led me to the conclusion that no one should have to suffer through the dark times alone.
Now dark times can mean different things to different people in a multitude of contexts and that’s ok. During sessions I strive to get to know each of my clients as a person. I believe that a person’s truth is their own, and their stories deserve to be heard with empathy. I employ person centered therapy practices, am trained in EMDR, and use other techniques on a case by case basis.
I am looking forward to working with you in our time together! I understand that you may be nervous to start, and that is okay. We can take it as slow as you need.
Katelyn Butler, MS, PLPC
Therapist
We can't always control what life has in store for us, but we can control how we deal with the bumps, scratches, and scars that life deals to us. I take a lot of inspiration from the art of Kintsugi which is the Japanese art of healing or mending broken pottery into something that functions once again while adding a touch of beauty to the piece. We are allowed to heal and the process of doing so can result in a more beautiful outcome than what we originally started with or hoped we could achieve. My journey in becoming a counselor began when I started my own process of healing from childhood trauma. I learned that a person doesn't have to carry the weight of trauma around with them every day; that with help, people can find better ways to cope with and heal from what life hands them. I have come to love my scars and the reminders of who I was, because it helps me appreciate who I am now and how much work I put in to get here. I want to help others on their path to healing and creating the life for themselves that they want and deserve. Whoever you are, whatever you've been through, you are worthy of love and happiness. And I'll be here to help you believe that.
I attended Missouri State University for both my Bachelors and my Masters degrees and I am now a provisionally licensed counselor. I work from mainly a person centered and cognitive behavioral point of view and am also certified as a Polyvagal therapist, but I always work to find the best treatment plan for each person in my care. I love helping people work through trauma of all kinds but work the best with those who have suffered childhood trauma and religious trauma. I can't wait to work with you, no matter who you are, who you love, or how you identify. All are welcome in my office.
Outside of work, I spend a lot of time with my cats, significant other and friends. I love to read, play video games, and have way too many stuffed animals! I also have a small obsession with ducks! I hope you find comfort and peace in my office as you start on your journey to healing and a happier future.
Vince Pozzie, MS, PLPC
Therapist
I am what you would call a “Springfield transplant”; I’m originally from the Chicagoland area and I first received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Northern Illinois University in 2019. I would then move to Springfield in 2022; and 2024 graduated with a master’s in Counseling from Missouri State University.
As a counselor, I see myself almost like a sound board for you to reflect and examine whatever you find yourself faced with. I mainly operate with a Person-Centered and Cognitive approach but am committed to using what helps you reach your goals. I have experience working with adults, teens and children.
I am a provisionally licensed professional counselor working under the supervision of Robyn Taft, MA, LPC-S, C-DBT.
In my free time I enjoy getting together with friends in person and through videogames.
On particularly nice days I try to get outside and spend time on a local trail.
Therapist
I am what you would call a “Springfield transplant”; I’m originally from the Chicagoland area and I first received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Northern Illinois University in 2019. I would then move to Springfield in 2022; and 2024 graduated with a master’s in Counseling from Missouri State University.
As a counselor, I see myself almost like a sound board for you to reflect and examine whatever you find yourself faced with. I mainly operate with a Person-Centered and Cognitive approach but am committed to using what helps you reach your goals. I have experience working with adults, teens and children.
I am a provisionally licensed professional counselor working under the supervision of Robyn Taft, MA, LPC-S, C-DBT.
In my free time I enjoy getting together with friends in person and through videogames.
On particularly nice days I try to get outside and spend time on a local trail.
Julie Davenport, MSW, LMSW
Therapist
Hi, I’m Julie! I’m a licensed therapist and a graduate of Missouri State University, where I earned my Master’s in Social Work. I’m originally from St. Louis, Missouri, and grew up in a small town where mental health wasn’t often talked about. That experience motivated me to help create a space where people feel comfortable opening up and finding support.
Over the years, I’ve learned that everyone can benefit from a therapeutic relationship. When life feels overwhelming, it can be hard to see the strengths and positives you already have within yourself. My goal is to provide a healthy, supportive space where we can problem-solve together and view your situation from a new perspective.
Outside of work, I enjoy all things creative—baking, drawing, reading, and spending quiet evenings watching movies with my dog.
Therapist
Hi, I’m Julie! I’m a licensed therapist and a graduate of Missouri State University, where I earned my Master’s in Social Work. I’m originally from St. Louis, Missouri, and grew up in a small town where mental health wasn’t often talked about. That experience motivated me to help create a space where people feel comfortable opening up and finding support.
Over the years, I’ve learned that everyone can benefit from a therapeutic relationship. When life feels overwhelming, it can be hard to see the strengths and positives you already have within yourself. My goal is to provide a healthy, supportive space where we can problem-solve together and view your situation from a new perspective.
Outside of work, I enjoy all things creative—baking, drawing, reading, and spending quiet evenings watching movies with my dog.
Rachella McClain, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Director
Rachella has been working for Counseling Group of the Ozarks (CGO) since its inception. She is a clinical social worker who has years of experience in client services and management.
When she is not working she spends a lot of time reading, spending time with those that she loves and traveling to the lake or ocean for rest and relaxation.
Clinical Director
Rachella has been working for Counseling Group of the Ozarks (CGO) since its inception. She is a clinical social worker who has years of experience in client services and management.
When she is not working she spends a lot of time reading, spending time with those that she loves and traveling to the lake or ocean for rest and relaxation.
Cody Jones
Office Coordinator
I have several years of administrative experience, but only recently joined the CGO team as the office coordinator and front desk receptionist while pursuing my master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. I know that starting personal counseling can be extremely daunting and confusing at first, which is why I try to be a welcoming first contact in that journey. I look forward to speaking with you and answering any questions you may have!
In my free time, I enjoy baking, working out, reading, and spending time with my friends.