Our Staff
Wellspring's counselors serve all without regard to race, religion, gender or national origin.
Counselors
- Jeanette Brown
- Janet Burns
- John Cordray
- Carol Gasser
- Jane Henke
- Kelly Kennison
- Carol Krentz-Wippold
- Lisa Lessing
- Jeff Oberle
- Dayna Osborne
- Leslie Peacock
- Alicia Seidler
- Rachel Smith
- Kristi Theriot
- Jerry Waggoner
- Kathy L. Woods
Interns are also available.
Support Staff
Jeanette Brown, LPC, holds a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary. Before pursuing a career in counseling, Jeanette worked for a Fortune 100 company as a Senior IT Project Manager. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, and is a member of the Missouri Mental Health Counselors Association. Jeanette holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and a M. A. in Management from Webster University. As a counselor, Jeanette has experience working with such concerns/issues as marriages, families, parenting, conflicts, communication, depression, and anxiety. She also has a heart for persons experiencing life cycle adjustments, grief, social fears, and relocation transitions. Jeanette counsels out of several of the Wellspring Counseling sites and has been a speaker for a variety of events. Additionally, Jeanette was appointed by the Governor to the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board. At her church, Jeanette serves as a Trustee and Sunday School teacher.
Janet Burns, LPC, holds an M.S. in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. Janet is a Visiting Instructor at Covenant Theological Seminary (CTS) where she supervises groups of counseling interns. She works with her husband in the CTS Center for Ministry Leadership to encourage pastors and their wives. Janet is most passionate when helping to strengthen marriages, repairing damaged relationships, or motivating men and women to find their voice after experiencing abuse. Other areas of expertise include grief, divorce, domestic oppression, developing emotional intelligence, parenting, and sexual concerns. Janet leads groups to help women process childhood abuse and trauma. She coordinates with pastors to offer pre-marital counseling. Janet co-authored a counseling article in By Faith magazine. She was a workshop panelist on the topic of church-based counseling at a Conference of the American Association of Christian Counselors. Janet has been married to Bob for 30 years, and has two grown sons and five grandchildren. She practices in Maplewood and St. Louis County.
John P. Cordray, LPC, holds a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA), and a Board Eligible National Certified Counselor. Prior to pursuing his counseling degree, John studied theology at Covenant Theological Seminary for three years. John specializes in child and adolescent counseling, working with young people on a wide range of issues, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, abuse, OCD, issues stemming from divorce, suicidal thoughts/attempts and more. John is an experienced play therapist and often uses this highly effective treatment when working with young clients (typically 3 to 12 years.) He utilizes an extensive collection of specialized toys which are designed to help a child “speak through play.” In addition to his office at Wellspring, John also provides counseling at several private schools, where he is able to help students in the comfortable environment of their own “turf.” John is considered a “mobile therapist” and is able to carry a portable play therapy office with him when needed. In addition to being a counselor of children and adolescents, John is also a youth director at his church, Spring Hills PCA. He has been in youth ministry for over 18 years and thoroughly enjoys trying to help students navigate through life. Because of his experience with youth, John offers a unique ability to relate to children and adolescents in counseling situations. John also offers marriage and family counseling as well as helping with men’s issues. John has been married for over 15 years to his beautiful wife, Julie, and has two fantastic children; one preteen and one full blown teenager! John enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, camping, fishing, (just about anything outdoors), as well as eating popcorn and watching a good action movie in surround sound!
Carol Gasser, LPC, holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and a Certified Counseling Supervisor for the state of Missouri. Carol is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors, the Missouri Mental Health Association, and the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. She was appointed by Governor Matt Blunt and was honored to serve as the Chairperson of the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board from 2007 - 2009. Carol has over seven years' professional experience working with conflicted marriages, individuals, and teens. She specializes in working with domestic violence/controlling relationships and survivors of childhood sexual abuse/trauma. Other areas of interest in counseling include: recovering from infidelity, spiritual struggles, post-abortion, depression/anxiety. Carol is a member of Harvester Christian Church where she leads a support group for women dealing with domestic violence/controlling/codependent relationships. She enjoys the role of speaker/trainer for area women's groups (she is a former MOPs mentor), St. Louis Christian College classes, and area churches on a variety of topics including: depression, conflict resolution and forgiveness, adolescence, boundaries, anger and domestic violence. Carol has been married 27 years to Richard and they have two terrific sons. She loves to quilt and still meets with her "playgroup" mom friends of twenty years. She practices primarily in the St. Charles County area.
Jane Henke, LPC, holds a Master of Science in Counseling from Missouri Baptist University (2005). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Missouri State University (1990). Jane joined the staff of Wellspring in May of 2005 after completing her Internship and Graduate Program. In addition to formal training in counseling, Jane has received specialized training to assist those in conflict through the use of mediation. Her areas of special interest in counseling include a wide variety of women's issues including codependency, past sexual abuse, addictions, grief, and eating disorders. Jane is an eclectic therapist who utilizes a wide variety of treatment techniques and strategies to assist clients in their healing. In addition to counseling, Jane also has experience and enjoys opportunities to speak to groups on a wide range of topics including conflict resolution, parenting, eating disorders, teen pregnancy, and spiritual issues. Jane was recently appointed by Governor Matt Blunt and is honored to serve on Missouri's Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board. Jane has been married for fifteen years and has two children. She attends a non-denominational church in the St. Louis area where she serves in various leadership roles.
Kelly Kennison, PLPC, holds a Master of Arts in Counseling (M.A.C.) degree from Covenant Theological Seminary, a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Christian Studies from Reformed Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Religious Studies from the University of South Florida. Kelly's experience includes being Director of Children's Ministry for a PCA church, homeschooling mom of two great kids (now grown), and social skills teacher for developmentally delayed children. She has taught a Children's Ministry seminar in Ghana, Africa, and a seminar on counseling sexually abused children in Manila, Philippines. She is currently on faculty at Kirk Day School (since 1998) teaching Jr. Kindergarten. Kelly is especially interested in working with struggling children of all ages and their hurting parents. Kelly is married to Mike, Pastor of Congregational Care at Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church. They will soon celebrate 21 years of marriage.
Carol Krentz-Wippold, PLPC, earned her Master of Arts in counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Indiana. Carol is a member of American Association of Christian Counselors and the American Counseling Association. Prior to her career change, Carol taught preschool for 10 years, taught midweek religious classes to middle school children, worked for the Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.) Society co-facilitating back-to-work groups, and as a house counselor at an adolescent crisis home and group home. Carol has experience counseling those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, the effects of sexual abuse, spouses of those sexually addicted, eating disorders, chronic physical illnesses and disabilities, and families in conflict. Carol has led support groups for those newly diagnosed with M.S. as well as those living with the long-standing chronic effects of M.S. She presently co-facilitates a support group for family members caring for relatives battling chronic mental disorders and volunteers for a local crisis pregnancy center. Carol is most passionate about helping people "stuck" in seemingly hopeless situations, and whose spirits are crushed. She considers it a privilege to walk alongside people overwhelmed by their difficulties, helping them find renewed hope and healing through the grace of Jesus Christ. Carol is an active member of Kirk of the Hills Church and has been married for 31 years. Her family includes 3 grown children, 2 grandchildren, and two feisty but needy little dogs.
Lisa Lessing, LPC, holds a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from St. John's College (1982) and taught in parochial schools for 8 years. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and a member of the American Association of Christian Counseling and the Missouri Mental Health Counselors Association. She joined the Wellspring staff in 2005. Lisa works with men and women experiencing depression and anxiety, adjustment and stage of life crises, grieving, forgiveness, and spiritual growth issues. Lisa is specifically focused on matters related to women including codependency, mid-life transitions, abuse (sexual, emotional, spiritual and/or physical), self-esteem, sexuality, and self-destructive behaviors. She also helps couples to process a marriage in crisis. Lisa integrates Christ-centered theology and psychology along with a variety of approaches and techniques to create a unique, workable counseling experience. Lisa has been married for 27 years and has two grown children and one in high school. As a pastor's wife, Lisa has a heart for men and women who serve in the Ministry and their families.
Jeff Oberle, LPC, serves as the Wellspring Team Leader. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary and a BS in Education from the University of Michigan. Before earning his Master's degree, Jeff owned and operated a successful small business in St Louis for 18 years. He is a licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Missouri and a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC). Areas of special interest and expertise include difficult problems and adjustments in first and second marriages; helping and guiding second marriages blend into caring, supportive, and unifying families; and helping parents and adolescents through this challenging transition in life. Issues commonly addressed include anger, intimacy, communication, conflict resolution, infidelity, pornography, addictions, finances, and depression. Jeff also has a passion for helping adults, adolescents, and children heal from the ravaging wounds of divorce. Additionally, he facilitates a grief support group (GriefShare), helping those who have lost significant relationships walk through their personal journey of grief. Jeff has been married for 28 years to his wife Heidi, has two grown children, and two grandchildren.
Dayna Osborne, LPC, holds a Masters of Education in Counseling from the University of Missouri-St. Louis (1989) and completed post graduate training in the two year Menninger Marriage and Family Training Program. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri, a National Certified Counselor and is a member of the American Association of Christian Counseling. Prior to her eighteen years of counseling experience she taught middle school and high school for fourteen years. As a counselor, Dayna, uses an eclectic approach within a family systems context. She has experience working with individuals, couples and families specifically including issues with marriage, separation, divorce (adults and children), remarriage, stepfamilies, parenting, adolescent and adult ADD, depression and anxiety. She is a member of Twin Oaks Presbyterian Church where she is a ministry leader of Divorce Recovery. She and her husband have led and facilitated divorce recovery support groups since 1996. These have included Divorce Care, Boundaries, and Safe People. She has also facilitated groups for women based on Nancy Groom's book, Heart to Heart About Men and co-taught a Sunday School Class on the subject of "Becoming an Emotionally Healthy Person." She and her husband have also been on the leadership team of Celebrate Recovery (a Christian twelve step ministry) and have facilitated open share groups. She had an article published by the Stepfamily Association of America in Stepfamilies, "Being All You Can Be as a Stepfamily". Dayna sees clients in Ballwin at Twin Oaks Presbyterian Church (Big Bend and 141) and at the Wellspring office in Chesterfield, as needed. She has been married to Bob for twenty two years. They have five adult sons and eight grandchildren.
Leslie Peacock, PLPC, holds a Master of Arts in Counseling (M.A.C) from Covenant Theological Seminary and a B.A. in English Literature from Furman University in Greenville, SC. Prior to entering the counseling field, Leslie worked in college ministry for 5 years, mentoring college-age women and addressing such issues as adjustment, depression, identity, eating disorders, anxiety, and family relationships. Her clients include individuals and families wrestling with these issues as well as abuse recovery, codependency, and grief. Additionally, Leslie specializes in working with children and families in the area of divorce and separation. Leslie counts it a privilege to journey alongside her clients towards hope and healing and collaborates with them towards personal growth and a greater freedom to risk, hope, and love. Leslie is an active member at Central Presbyterian Church, where she is collaborating on a Divorce Recovery for Kids program designed for middle-schoolers.
Alicia Seidler, PLPC, holds a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Counseling and Family Therapy from Saint Louis University and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from University of Missouri- St. Louis. Additionally, Alicia has certification in Trauma Studies and Non-profit Organization Management and Leadership. Alicia has worked in a social service agency, helping those with severe persistent mental illness and homelessness for 5 years, most recently directing a psychiatric group home. Previous experience also includes working with victims of crime and domestic violence through the St. Louis County Prosecutor's Office, assisting with orders of protection and court proceedings. Areas of interest and expertise include: depression; working with kids and teens, especially during periods of life adjustments; schizophrenia; addictions; domestic violence; eating disorders; personality disorders; and anxiety. Alicia finds working with adolescent clients particularly rewarding as she strives to relate to them in a way that is culturally relevant. Issues that she commonly addresses with her clients are anger, assertiveness, intimacy, communication, conflict resolution, forgiveness, self-esteem, and stress. Alicia is a lifetime member of South County Christian Center. She is married and has four fish.
Rachel Smith, CIT, holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts in Family Studies from Samford University in Alabama. She has experience counseling those struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, marital conflict, spiritual struggles, abuse, and eating disorders. Rachel has a unique heart for marital counseling and has completed Susan Johnson’s Emotionally Focused Therapy externship — an experiential approach to marital counseling based on a comprehensive theory of adult love and attachment. Additionally, she has a strong passion for helping teenage girls and adult women fight against negative body image issues and eating disorders. Prior to entering the counseling field, Rachel worked for 6+ years in a variety of ministry-related settings, including youth ministry and care ministry in churches, pastoral care in a hospital, and special education in a high school. Rachel has watched God's love and grace carry her through the darkest moments in her life and consequently desires to walk along-side those in their darkest moments — offering God's love and grace in their times of need. Rachel is married to Jeff, a current student at Covenant Theological Seminary, and enjoys doing ministry with him. They are active members of Greentree Community Church.
Kristi Theriot, PLPC, holds a M.A. in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University, a B.A. in Religious Studies from Lindenwood University and a B.S. in Children's Ministries from Baptist Bible College. She has five years of experience working with adults, adolescents and children in a psychiatric hospital setting and over eight years experience working in the field of Social Services. As a result of Kristi's Social Services experience, she has insight into child welfare issues, transitions associated with adoption and coordination of available community resources. As a counselor, Kristi works with all ages. She specializes in children's issues including: separation, divorce, adoption, school and behavioral concerns, as well as grief and loss issues. She has had training in school issues including IEP's, 504 plans and Attention Deficit Disorder. Kristi is an active member of Grace Baptist Church in St. Charles, Missouri. Kristi works from the Chesterfield office and the St. Charles / O'Fallon satellite offices. Kristi has been married for over 16 years and has two young children.
Jerry Waggoner, LPC, holds a Master of Education in General Counseling from the University of Missouri St. Louis as well as a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary. Jerry is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC). Jerry has been counseling professionally since April, 1991. He was previously a teacher. He has extensive experience working in the field of addictions, having worked as a counselor for adolescents struggling with substance abuse and their families, as well as managing a nationally certified substance abuse treatment center for adults for ten years. He counsels persons struggling with addictions, including men who are burdened with sexual issues. Jerry also counsels individuals and couples on marital issues and does family counseling. He is convinced that the family is the key to the development of healthy individuals and communities and that strengthening marriages and families is the most strategic task facing the church and society today. Jerry strives to make the counseling relationship the safest place in the world for his clients. As individuals so valuable that Jesus gave His very life for him, he will never condemn or shame his clients. Jerry offers counsel that is both biblically sound and consistent with reliable research findings and that he personally practices. He seeks never simply to apply a Christian veneer to secular thinking. He is committed to Scripture's clear teaching about how we are to love God, ourselves and one another. In addition to his counseling, Jerry enjoys conducting marriage seminars and retreats for couples with his wife, Nancy. He also leads men's retreats. He speaks on a variety of relationship topics, including "How to Get Unstuck in Your Marriage," "The Fear Dance," and others. He and Nancy are the parents of 3 grown children and have seven grandchildren. He enjoys bird watching and hunting.
Kathy L. Woods, CIT, holds an M.A. in Counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary and a B.S. in Biblical Studies. As a counselor, Kathy has experience working with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, identity issues, life transitions, and sexual trauma. Kathy founded and has directed a successful support recovery ministry for sexual abuse victims at Grace Church - St. Louis since 1999: Hope for Women/Men. Kathy has worked in the Social Services field for over 20 years as an advocate for children and families in crisis. As a result of Kathy's Social Services experience, she has insight into child welfare issues, transitions associated with adoption and coordination of available community resources. Kathy has been married to Don for 22 years and has three children. Kathy practices at our main location in Chesterfield and at two of our satellite locations: Ferguson and St. Louis City.
Support Staff
Darla Ferguson serves as liaison between Wellspring and the community, promoting awareness of Wellspring's counseling ministry. On staff since 2005, Darla endeavors to communicate Wellspring's vision to individuals, families and the church community. She seeks opportunities to demonstrate Wellspring's commitment to support the local church and to maintain a reputation with pastors as a trusted counseling resource. With 28 years of office administration experience, Darla also handles case administration for Wellspring's intensive counseling services. Darla worships at Rockport Baptist Church in Arnold, MO. She has been married to Doug for 28 years and has two grown children.
Debra Powers has been on staff at Wellspring Christian Counseling since 2003, serving as Business Manager. Prior to service at Wellspring, she worked for a total of 21 years in financial and business administration roles. Debra has served the local body as a Sunday School teacher, Youth Ministry leader and board member for Haitian Islands Ministry. She has served her community as a board member and active volunteer for a youth camp that ministers to underprivileged children. Debra has been married for 30 years and has one daughter, whose adoption from Guatemala has led their family into passionate support of Team Guatemala, an evangelistic mission organization.
Healing Hearts • Restoring Relationships • Liberating Lives