About Us - Our Counselors

Renewing Hope Counseling is a Christian counseling center in Houston that integrates time-honored, Biblical concepts and responsible psychological principles to minister healing to families, adults, teens, and children.  Our therapists offer help in spiritual issues, trauma and abuse issues, issues specific to men and women, depression, anxiety, phobias, grief issues, anger management, addiction, marital stress, communication, conflict resolution, eating disorders, or emotional intimacy.

Read more about our therapists below - click on a name to read his or her biographical information.  You may contact any of our therapists by using our contact us page.

Our Counselors

Marshall Rorie

Marshall Rorie with his dogMarshall is a licensed professional counselor who is a Christian. He has been doing this work in one form or another for over 15 years. Before that he was a Christian school teacher/administrator for 15 years. He loves what he does and enjoys watching the Lord do His work in the lives of people.

He was saved at age 12 in a Baptist church and has enjoyed attending a variety of types of churches over the years. He currently attends BridgePoint Bible Church in west Houston.

His wife of 34 years is Teresa. He has four adult children and four grand children. He has been in the Houston area for 20 years.  He likes teaching Sunday School, singing at church, outdoor activities, hunting, baseball, and collecting Thomas Kincaid. He loves lighthouses.

Practice Information

Training and Degrees: In 1979, Marshall received his Bachelor of Science degree from Southeastern Bible College (Birmingham, Ala.) with a minor in Christian Education. In August 1986 he received a Masters of Education degree from Reformed Theological Seminary (Jackson, Miss.) with an emphasis in school administration. In May 1997 he received a Masters of Arts Degree in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology form Houston Baptist University.

Experience: Marshall served in Christian schools as a teacher/administrator for 15 years. He was a staff Pastoral Counselor at Second Baptist Church, served three years with Christian Counselors of Houston during internship and early licensure. He has been a Licensed Professional Counselor for 6 years. If you have any questions concerning his credentials please ask and/or request a copy of his vitae.

Counseling purposes, goals and techniques: "The first and final authority for all my work is the Word of God, the Bible. I seek to integrate responsible psychological principles with Scriptural principles. I serve individuals, couples and groups. My theoretical approach is eclectic utilizing interpersonal, cognitive, Gesalt, cognitive-behavioral, behavioral, psychodynamic, and affective methods. The goal is to achieve mental, emotional, physical, social, moral and spiritual development that adjusts throughout the life span. Additionally, testing, assessing and appraising will utilize formal and informal instruments and procedures, for which I have received the appropriate training."

Boundaries: "It is my practice to set and maintain professional boundaries. Dual relationship with clients is prohibited. A dual relationship is considered any non-counseling activity initiated by either the licensee or the client for the purpose of establishing a non-therapeutic relationship."

Referral: "If necessary I shall terminate the counseling relationship when it is reasonably clear that you are not benefiting from the relationship. When professional counseling is still indicated, I shall take reasonable steps to facilitate the transfer to an appropriate referral or source. Clients may obtain a second opinion from another mental health professional and/or may discontinue therapy at any time."

Consultation: "In an attempt to gain other perspectives and ideas as how to best help you reach your goals, I have regular consultation with other professionals regarding clients with whom I am working. Such consultations are conducted with complete confidentiality. No 'identifying information' is shared in these consultations."

Professional Development: "In order to facilitate professional development and quality counseling, I submit myself to supervision as necessary. I also maintain state mandated Continuing Education Units to assure the client receives fresh perspectives and benefits from current research."

Dina Blume

Dina Blume, LPC, LSSPDina is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP). She earned a Master of Arts in Psychology at Houston Baptist University and received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Texas A & M University along with a Lifetime Texas Teacher’s Certificate. Her counseling training took place in an inpatient psychiatric facility within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice system, and in the public school system. Her work in schools gives her a perspective of students as well as parents in dealing with a variety of issues.

Dina has experience in diagnostic interviewing, career counseling, marriage preparation and problems, psychological and intellectual assessment, and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Her formal education and experience allows her to provide counseling at any stage in life.

Dina approaches counseling from a biblical perspective and is committed to clinical excellence. "My desire is through counseling, your relationship with the Lord would grow deeper while your connections with others would be strengthened. I am, however, sensitive to where you are in your own spiritual journey."

Dina is a member of American Association of Christian Counselors and Texas Association of School Psychologists. She and her husband of 31 years are active at BridgePoint Bible Church in Houston. They have five children and two grandchildren.

"Comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." (2 Cor. 1:4-6).

Carolyn Erlinger

Carolyn S. Erlinger, M. Ed., LPC

Carolyn is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Education in counseling from the University of Houston and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Houston. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families as they face a variety of challenges. Special areas of interest include Christian counseling, depression and anxiety, grief and loss issues, marriage counseling, blended families, and relational healing. Carolyn’s mission is to integrate sound clinical concepts with Biblical principles. She is married with four children and five grandchildren and is available weekdays and some evenings for appointments.

Staci Mullinax

Liscensed Clinical Social Worker

In my experience, I have found that the most significant factor in effective counseling is the ability for the client and therapist to build a trusting relationship. In order for this to happen, you need to feel confident in my ability to not only provide appropriate clinical care, but to be able to meet you where you are, without judgement. Here’s a little bit of information that can tell you about what I do, as well as who I am.

In 1996 I received my Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Sam Houston State University. In May of 1999 I completed a Master of Social Work degree from University of Houston. My professional training and experience has taken place in psychiatric hospitals, public schools, and domestic abuse centers. Because of the diversity in my professional background, I am able to work with clients of all ages. I have experience in the treatment of depression and anxiety, trauma resolution, grief counseling, marriage, and family counseling. I currently work with clients aged ten years through adulthood.

I am a wife, mother, and dog owner. I am also an active member of my church family. As a Christian, I seek to integrate responsible psychological principles with scriptural principles found in the Bible. At the same time, I desire to always be respectful of the spiritual place in which others find themselves. My practice consists of helping Christians, as well as people of other faiths.

I am also an in-network provider with most insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid.

May God bless you in your endeavor to seek growth and healing!

Elizabeth (Betty) York

Elizabeth (Betty) S. York, M. Ed., LPC, LMFTElizabeth (Betty) S. York, M. Ed., LPC, LMFT

Providing individual, marriage, and family therapy to all ages, Betty has been licensed in Texas as a Professional Counselor for twenty-six years and as a Marriage and Family Therapist for sixteen years. With ten years of experience as an elementary educator in the public school system, the Texas Education Agency has certified Betty as an elementary educator, a Professional School Counselor Grades PK-12, and a Professional Special Education School Counselor Grades PK-12.

A member of the American Association of Christian Counselors, Christian Counselors of Texas, and Greater Houston Area Christian Counselors, Betty has been certified by AACC as an International Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor. For over twenty-five years Betty has served in various capacities on the Board of Directors of Christian Counselors of Texas, a statewide non-profit organization for professional Christian counselors.

Recognizing the God-given right of each individual to accept or refuse Christ's invitation to life-saving relationship, Betty seeks to meet each client where he or she is and help them reach their personal life goals. Preservation of marriage and family is a focus, and psychology and theology are integrated with client permission predominantly through Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.

 

"As a man thinketh in his heart, so he is." Proverbs 23:7

Erica Overshiner

Erica Overshiner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Renewing Hope Counseling. She received her Masters degree in Clinical Social Work from Washburn University. Her Bachelors degree was in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from the University of South Dakota. She enjoys working with individuals, families, and groups as they face a variety of challenges. Special areas of interest include Christian counseling, post traumatic stress disorder, trauma resolution, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss issues, and sexual identity issues. Erica seeks to integrate therapy with the Word of God. She is married with two children and is an active member of her church family. She enjoys reading, traveling, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

Brooke Medina

Brooke Medina, LCSW (ESPANOL ABAJO)

I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Masters in Social Work. I have a special interest in serving the Spanish-speaking community, which has been a personal and professional focus since childhood; however I am dedicated to working with all populations. I have worked with individuals and families from varying cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, as well as, those with diverse family values and dynamics. I believe that with God’s help we together can address whatever issue or challenge has encouraged one to seek therapy. I join alongside individuals and families to discover and set clinically attainable goals that promote personal empowerment and growth, while remaining focused on ethical and competent practice. I encourage individuals and families to identify and utilize their God-given strengths throughout the therapeutic process.

Education and Credentials

     •Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), 2011

     •Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Certificate 2010

     •Positive Parenting Principles, International/National Provider, 
      Certificate 2009

     •Play Therapy (in training since 2008)

     •Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), 2008

     •Master in Social Work, University of Houston, 2008

     •Bachelor of Arts, Latin American Studies, University of Texas at
      Austin, 2000

     •University of Seville, Spain, 1998-1999 (Work/Study)

     •Study/Work Abroad, Chile, 1995

     •Associations: National Association of Social Workers (NASW),
      Association for Play Therapy (APT), Texas Association for Play
      Therapy, Sam Houston Chapter for Play Therapy (SHAPT)

 

I have clinical experience in a multitude of settings such as hospitals, public schools, and non-profit organizations. Areas of special interest include providing bilingual talk and play therapy, joining with parents to address parenting issues and challenges, and working with the family collectively to encourage lasting therapeutic change. My experience includes, but is not limited to, working to address acculturation issues, intergenerational differences, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, parent-child conflict, the special needs of children, school-related problems, trauma, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution. I have also actively facilitated child, adolescent, and multi-family therapeutic groups to improve social skills, anger management, grief, impulse control, communication, and parenting skills.

I am a Christian wife and mother of two children. My husband and I enjoy raising our children in a bicultural, Mexican-American family. We are active members at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Fresno, Texas, and I am passionate about singing in my church’s worship band. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, and maintaining an active lifestyle.

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

 

 

Brooke Medina, LCSW

Soy una terapeuta bilingüe (Inglés/Español) con la licencia oficial de “Licensed Clinical Social Worker” (Trabajadora Social Clínica) (LCSW). Tengo interés especial en el servicio de la comunidad hispana, que ha sido un enfoque personal y profesional desde mi niñez; sin embargo me dedico a trabajar con todas las poblaciones. He trabajado con individuos y familias de varias culturas, etnicidades, y creencias espirituales, así como también con valores y dinámicas distintas entre la familia. Creo que con la ayuda de Dios podemos confrontar cualquier problema o desafío que ha guiado a uno a buscar terapia. Establezco una unión de manera individual o familiar para descubrir y determinar metas clínicas y alcanzables que promueven el crecimiento personal, basada en una práctica ética y competente. Animo a los individuos y a las familias a identificar y a utilizar sus virtudes espirituales durante el proceso terapéutico.

Educación y Certificaciones

     •Licenciada Clínica de Trabajo Social (LCSW), 2011

     •Terapia Interactiva de Padre-Hijo, Certificada en 2010

     •Principios Positivos de los Padres, Proveedor International y
      Nacional, Certificada en 2009

     •Terapia de Juego – un método de terapia que frecuentemente se
      utiliza con los niños entre la edad de 3 a 10 (en capacitación desde
      2008)

     •Licenciada de Maestría de Trabajo Social (LMSW), 2008

     •Maestría en Trabajo Social, Universidad de Houston, 2008

     •Titulo de Bachelor, Estudio de los Asunto Latinoamericanos,
      Universidad de Texas en Austin, 2000

     •Universidad de Sevilla, España, 1998-1999 (Intercambio de trabajo 
      y estudio)

     •Intercambio de trabajo y estudio, Chile, 1995

     •Asociaciones: National Association of Social Workers (NASW),
      Association for Play Therapy (APT), Texas Association for Play
      Therapy, Sam Houston Chapter for Play Therapy (SHAPT)

 

Tengo experiencia clínica en diversas áreas como hospitales, escuelas públicas, y organizaciones de servicios públicos. Mis áreas de interés incluyen la terapia de juego con niños (aproximadamente 3 a 10 años) y terapia de plática (con adolescentes, adultos, familias), presentar a los padres nuevas estrategias para mejor la interacción con sus hijos, y trabajar con la familia entera para encontrar una solución al conflicto existente. Mi experiencia incluye, pero no se limita a, trabajar con niños, adolescentes y familias que experimentan conflictos culturales y/o tradicionales, depresión, ansiedad, luto, conflicto entre padre-niño, discapacidades infantiles, problemas relacionados con la escuela, trauma, familias o personas en crisis, y resolución de conflicto. También he facilitado grupos terapéuticos para niños, adolescentes, y grupos multifamiliares para mejorar interacciones sociales, el manejo de enojo, el luto, el control de la impulsividad, la comunicación, y estrategias de ser mejor padre.

Aparte de ser una mujer Cristiana, soy una esposa y una madre de dos niños. Mi marido y yo disfrutamos de la experiencia de criar a nuestros hijos en una familia bicultural, respetando y apreciando nuestra cultura Mexicana-Americana. Somos muy activos en nuestra iglesia, Epiphany Lutheran Church, localizado en Fresno, Texas, y disfruto participar en el canto de la iglesia. En mi tiempo de descanso, gozo de leer, pasar tiempo con mi familia, y participar en actividades activas y atléticas.

“Porque yo sé muy bien los planes que tengo para ustedes —afirma el Señor—, planes de bienestar y no de calamidad, a fin de darles un futuro y una esperanza.” Jeremías 29:11

Our Play Therapists

Tom Stevens

       I am a psychotherapist who specializes in working with children and their families, and I have a private practice in Houston, Texas. With over 15 years experience, my main goal is to help people get where they want to go by building a safe and supportive atmosphere for treatment.

       I am a native Texan and have lived in Houston for most of my life. I have been married to my wife, Jill, since 1999 and we currently live in Northwest Houston with our two children. I am currently president of the Sam Houston Association for Play Therapy (SHAPT). This is the local chapter of the Texas Association for Play Therapy (TAPT), which focuses on play therapy as the most effective way to treat children's emotional issues. I am also on staff at the Foundry Faith Academy, in Northwest Houston, where I provide education, support, and consultation to staff and parents regarding the children at the preschool.

        Whether it is a one time consultation to get help with some current life issues, education on a particular parenting issue or even ongoing counseling for something that doesn't seem to be getting any better, I am here to help you get where you want to go. Contact me today for a consultation!

Education

  • Sam Houston State University, 1994 M.A. Counselor Education
  • University of Houston, 1991 B.S. Psychology

Credentials

  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
  • Registered Play Therapist (RPT)

Member

  • Association for Play Therapy (APT)
  • Texas Association for Play Therapy (TAPT)
  • Sam Houston Association for Play Therapy (SHAPT)

Positions Held

  • President - Sam Houston Association for Play Therapy

 

My counseling work includes treament for children as well as adults.

Below are some of the types of treament I use, as well as reasons people might begin treatment:

  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Couples Counseling
  • Play Therapy for Children
  • Parent Skills Training
  • Work and Career issues
  • Stress Management
  • Addiction & Recovery
  • Conflict Resolution

I worked with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for anxiety and depression to parenting support, couples counseling, and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they’re striving for. You can explore what your life has been and what you want it to be, then we can work to get you there.

Children - Explanation of Play Therapy

Part of my practice focuses on children and helping them conquer the fear, anxiety, and hurt caused in their life. This is done through a mode of treatment called "play therapy". Being a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), I have been specially trained and supervised to work with children as young as 2 years old, to help them build self esteem and move past the struggles they have been through. Play therapy gives the child a chance to build a relationship with a trained therapist and play out their feelings in a safe place. Since children are "feeling based" they need to play to process their feelings, unlike adults who can use their words and thoughts to process feelings. This gives the child a chance to share their feelings through play and build back the self esteem they have lost allowing them to go out and handle the next set of problems much more successfully.

 

Adults

When treating adults in therapy or working with parents I take a much more direct approach to counseling. I believe it's important to look honestly at what has happened in your life, realize how your past has carried over into the present and work to eliminate the old baggage and create newer and more healthy patterns of living. I give my honest opinion about how your life can change and believe in working together to create a better life. Whether I see you for one session or many, the focus is always on what you want to get out of life and creating a plan to get there. With hard work, anything is possible.

Jill Johnson-Stevens

Bio coming soon.

Lily Yoder (formerly Marquez)

I am a psychotherapist practicing in the West Houston/Katy area for over three years. My experience includes working with children and adolescents and their families to help them overcome challenges in their lives that hinder success and growth. I have experience in working with a variety of mental health issues (ADHD, Autism/Aspergers, Depression/Anxiety, and Behavior problems) as well as many psychosocial stressors such as separation/divorce, school difficulties, grief and bereavement, and trauma and attachment issues. I have specialized training in play therapy, a mode of therapy uniquely designed to effectively allow children, ages 3-10, express and cope with their emotional issues.

I was born in Houston and have lived in the Houston area for majority of my life. My husband, Mike, and I were married in 2008 and are the happy parents of a beautiful little girl born in April 2010. We are Christians and members of Thrive Church in Richmond, Texas. In my spare moments from being a new mother, I enjoy relaxing in my hammock, engaging in creative, craft projects such as scrapbooking, and catching up on the current prime time TV favorites!

Education

Houston Baptist University, 2007 M.A. Psychology
Baylor University, 2002 B.A. Psychology

Credentials 
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Registered Play Therapist (RPT) 

Credentials

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Registered Play Therapist (RPT)

Brenda Markle

Brenda K. Markle, L.P.C. - S.

 

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters of Arts Degree in Psychology from HBU with over 24 years of experience in the mental health field. My experience includes working in various settings: psychiatric hospitals, Houston Child Guidance Center, Family Service Center, private practice and Christian counseling centers. Also I have received specific training in the following areas: Premarital and marital counseling; Play therapy; Clinical supervision of LPC interns; and Certification in Gerontology.

I have experience working with children (3 and up). adolescents, and adults (individuals, couples, and families). Special areas of interest are working with foster and adopted children, grief counseling with children, and blended families. As a Christian counselor, I integrate Christian principles and ideals with psychological knowledge and experience.

My husband and I have been married for 25 years and have two sons and a granddaughter. We enjoy traveling, cooking and spending time with family, friends and our dog!

Brooke Medina

Brooke Medina, LCSW         (ESPANOL ABAJO)

I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Masters in Social Work. I have a special interest in serving the Spanish-speaking community, which has been a personal and professional focus since childhood; however I am dedicated to working with all populations. I have worked with individuals and families from varying cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, as well as, those with diverse family values and dynamics. I believe that with God’s help we together can address whatever issue or challenge has encouraged one to seek therapy. I join alongside individuals and families to discover and set clinically attainable goals that promote personal empowerment and growth, while remaining focused on ethical and competent practice. I encourage individuals and families to identify and utilize their God-given strengths throughout the therapeutic process.

Education and Credentials

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), 2011
  • Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Certificate 2010
  • Positive Parenting Principles, International/National Provider, Certificate 2009
  • Play Therapy (in training since 2008)
  • Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), 2008
  • Master in Social Work, University of Houston, 2008
  • Bachelor of Arts, Latin American Studies, University of Texas at Austin, 2000
  • University of Seville, Spain, 1998-1999 (Work/Study)
  • Study/Work Abroad, Chile, 1995
  • Associations: National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Association for Play Therapy (APT), Texas Association for Play Therapy, Sam Houston Chapter for Play Therapy (SHAPT)

 

I have clinical experience in a multitude of settings such as hospitals, public schools, and non-profit organizations. Areas of special interest include providing bilingual talk and play therapy, joining with parents to address parenting issues and challenges, and working with the family collectively to encourage lasting therapeutic change. My experience includes, but is not limited to, working to address acculturation issues, intergenerational differences, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, parent-child conflict, the special needs of children, school-related problems, trauma, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution. I have also actively facilitated child, adolescent, and multi-family therapeutic groups to improve social skills, anger management, grief, impulse control, communication, and parenting skills.

I am a Christian wife and mother of two children. My husband and I enjoy raising our children in a bicultural, Mexican-American family. We are active members at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Fresno, Texas, and I am passionate about singing in my church’s worship band. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, and maintaining an active lifestyle.

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

 

 

Brooke Medina, LCSW

Soy una terapeuta bilingüe (Inglés/Español) con la licencia oficial de “Licensed Clinical Social Worker” (Trabajadora Social Clínica) (LCSW). Tengo interés especial en el servicio de la comunidad hispana, que ha sido un enfoque personal y profesional desde mi niñez; sin embargo me dedico a trabajar con todas las poblaciones. He trabajado con individuos y familias de varias culturas, etnicidades, y creencias espirituales, así como también con valores y dinámicas distintas entre la familia. Creo que con la ayuda de Dios podemos confrontar cualquier problema o desafío que ha guiado a uno a buscar terapia. Establezco una unión de manera individual o familiar para descubrir y determinar metas clínicas y alcanzables que promueven el crecimiento personal, basada en una práctica ética y competente. Animo a los individuos y a las familias a identificar y a utilizar sus virtudes espirituales durante el proceso terapéutico.

Educación y Certificaciones

  • Licenciada Clínica de Trabajo Social (LCSW), 2011
  • Terapia Interactiva de Padre-Hijo, Certificada en 2010
  • Principios Positivos de los Padres, Proveedor International y Nacional, Certificada en 2009
  • Terapia de Juego – un método de terapia que frecuentemente se utiliza con los niños entre la edad de 3 a 10 (en capacitación desde 2008)
  • Licenciada de Maestría de Trabajo Social (LMSW), 2008
  • Maestría en Trabajo Social, Universidad de Houston, 2008
  • Titulo de Bachelor, Estudio de los Asunto Latinoamericanos, Universidad de Texas en Austin, 2000
  • Universidad de Sevilla, España, 1998-1999 (Intercambio de trabajo y estudio)
  • Intercambio de trabajo y estudio, Chile, 1995
  • Asociaciones: National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Association for Play Therapy (APT), Texas Association for Play Therapy, Sam Houston Chapter for Play Therapy (SHAPT)

 

Tengo experiencia clínica en diversas áreas como hospitales, escuelas públicas, y organizaciones de servicios públicos. Mis áreas de interés incluyen la terapia de juego con niños (aproximadamente 3 a 10 años) y terapia de plática (con adolescentes, adultos, familias), presentar a los padres nuevas estrategias para mejor la interacción con sus hijos, y trabajar con la familia entera para encontrar una solución al conflicto existente. Mi experiencia incluye, pero no se limita a, trabajar con niños, adolescentes y familias que experimentan conflictos culturales y/o tradicionales, depresión, ansiedad, luto, conflicto entre padre-niño, discapacidades infantiles, problemas relacionados con la escuela, trauma, familias o personas en crisis, y resolución de conflicto. También he facilitado grupos terapéuticos para niños, adolescentes, y grupos multifamiliares para mejorar interacciones sociales, el manejo de enojo, el luto, el control de la impulsividad, la comunicación, y estrategias de ser mejor padre.

Aparte de ser una mujer Cristiana, soy una esposa y una madre de dos niños. Mi marido y yo disfrutamos de la experiencia de criar a nuestros hijos en una familia bicultural, respetando y apreciando nuestra cultura Mexicana-Americana. Somos muy activos en nuestra iglesia, Epiphany Lutheran Church, localizado en Fresno, Texas, y disfruto participar en el canto de la iglesia. En mi tiempo de descanso, gozo de leer, pasar tiempo con mi familia, y participar en actividades activas y atléticas.

“Porque yo sé muy bien los planes que tengo para ustedes —afirma el Señor—, planes de bienestar y no de calamidad, a fin de darles un futuro y una esperanza.” Jeremías 29:11

Interns

Diane Shillings

I am a licensed professional counselor intern working under supervision to complete the 3,000 training hours required by the state of Texas. I earned my Master of Arts in Christian Counseling at Houston Baptist University in August 2010. Although my counseling training has been and continues to be with people of all ages, my special areas of interest are adolescents and young adults.

I earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Marketing from the University of Texas in 1981 and for several years worked as a commercial real estate broker. I changed careers in 1990 to become a full time wife, mother of three sons, and volunteer in schools, churches, and Houston area tennis organizations. In 2006 I felt God’s calling to counsel and thus began this new life journey. I believe these life experiences combined with my formal education give me a well rounded perspective necessary for counseling people of all ages.

I am a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors, the Christian Association for Psychological Studies, and Christian Counselors of Texas. My family and I are active members of Tallowood Baptist Church.

Lisa McNeurny

Bio coming soon...

Laurette Presley

Laurette Beeson Presley, MA, LPC-I

Having been married for 33 years to my husband, Jeff, and raising our four children, I returned to school and completed my Masters of Arts in Christian Counseling at Houston Baptist University in May 2011. I embrace the opportunity to continue in this field and work under the supervision of Marshall Rorie at Renewing Hope, while completing my 3000 hours of internship.

During the past 10 years, my involvement in the pastoral care ministry brought great awareness and empathy to those facing difficulties and the need for caring and trained individuals to walk with them through these times. I believe we are each valuable individuals who have enriching and unique qualities to offer in our lives. In my work, the most defining focus is the experience of a healthy relationship between client and counselor. Having the greatest respect and empathy with clients and the circumstances that life brings, I practice from a cognitive behavioral approach. It is in this therapeutic model in which we become aware of the ways that we think and how this affects both our feelings and actions.

Due to stressful life circumstances as well as our biological factors, we are given the opportunity, during demanding times, to work from within in order to overcome obstacles or move through transitions. It is when we build up ourselves in challenging times that our inner strength grows and our full potential can truly be appreciated.

My areas of concentration with regards to life transitions are:

     •Young adults – capturing the life that you can be equipped to  
      experience

     •Parents of high school/college children – allowing children their  
      individualism while building on your passions

     •The geriatric population – adjusting to and embracing the golden
      years; extending dignity and compassion to those in this phase
      (individual and family therapy)

Other areas of equal interest are:

     •Individuals facing chronic illness – overcoming emotional challenges

     •Women’s issues – increasing self-esteem, overcoming unhealthy or
      abusive relationships

     •Couples/family therapy

The core of my work grows from my firm foundation in Christ and the abundance of life that is offered to us through His love and grace. No matter where your beliefs are in this area, my acceptance and understanding of each individual is an evident part of my work.

Practicum Students

Tiffany Bunch

Tiffany BunchI am currently a student at Houston Baptist University working toward my Master of Arts in Christian Counseling. I am completing my practicum at Renewing Hope under the supervision of Marshall Rorie, and my expected graduation date is December 2011. Once I graduate I plan to become a licensed professional counselor intern after completing the state exam. My experience is currently with children and adolescents in my practicum setting, and I work with younger and older adults at my job in academia.

I graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Women's Studies. Shortly after I graduated I began working as an advisor at a local community college and have been there for 2 years now. I recently started attending Houston's First Baptist Church, and I enjoy singing as a member of the choir.