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Katie McMahon
LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC
Executive Director
Meet Katie – the founder of Rise! A veteran with dual master’s degrees in victims services and counseling, Katie has devoted her career to supporting those impacted by childhood trauma while advocating passionately for victims and social justice. In addition to being a counselor and counselor supervisor, Katie works as a professor at Sam Houston State University, teaching victims studies.
Outside of her professional life, Katie is a busy mom to teenagers, twin toddlers, and two Great Danes. When she finds a moment to herself, you might find her vibing to great music, sneaking in a good book, indulging in a bit of retail therapy, or exploring the latest foodie hotspots on her travels. Her fiesty, spontaneous spirit helps guide others to strength and healing.
Sarah Favilla
MA, LBA, BCBA
Director of Behavioral Services
Sarah is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a heart full of passion and a jeep full of sand (well, at least on the weekends). A proud graduate of Ball State University with a Master’s degree in Special Education, Sarah specializes in Autism Spectrum Disorder but brings her expertise to individuals with a variety of medical and psychiatric diagnoses.
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With experience ranging from toddlers just 18 months old to adults in their 80s, Sarah has seen it all! She loves witnessing the transformative power of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and is dedicated to making a positive impact in her clients' lives.
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Jessica Bly
Director of Human Resources
Jessica is an experienced HR and systems professional with a knack for creating workplace environments where employees thrive. A proud graduate of Texas Woman’s University, she has spent the past decade honing her expertise in Human Resources, System Integration, and Payroll. Jessica’s philosophy is simple: investing in people is the key to long-term success. Whether she’s helping employees build their skills, streamline processes, or boost confidence, her focus is always on growth and innovation.
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When she’s not driving workplace excellence, Jessica is busy being a devoted mom to her spunky 9-year-old daughter and celebrating over a decade of marriage. A native Texan living in the Galveston area, she finds joy in tending to her garden, expanding her personal library, and sharing creative moments with her daughter through drawing and coloring. She’s also a gamer at heart, proving that even HR pros know how to level up in their downtime.
Victoria Jones
Client Care Coordinator
Meet Victoria – The Heart of Our Front Office!
If you’ve called or walked into our clinic, chances are you’ve been greeted by the friendly voice and warm smile of Victoria. As our Client Care Coordinator, she keeps everything running smoothly—scheduling appointments, answering questions, and making sure every client feels welcome from day one.
A proud mom of four, Victoria has mastered the art of multitasking and brings that same energy and care to our team. She’s a Sam Houston State University Class of 2024 graduate with a degree in Psychology, and she’s just getting started—she’ll be pursuing her Master’s degree soon!
When she’s not keeping us all organized, you can find her relaxing on the front porch with a drink in hand, cheering on her favorite basketball team, or soaking up the sun at the beach. She’s the perfect mix of calm, cool, and collected, and we’re lucky to have her!
Amanda Beeman
MA, LPC, CAS
Amanda is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Autism Specialist with a focus on PTSD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She’s also a PhD candidate in Special Education, blending real-world experience with the latest research to help clients make real, lasting changes. Amanda’s style is straightforward, practical, and honest — she’s not the type to nod and smile while you stay stuck. If you’re ready to put in the work, she’s ready to get you moving.
When she’s off the clock, you’ll usually find Amanda on the jiu jitsu mats, lifting weights, or hunting down the next best taco spot. She’s a big fan of athleisure (because real life isn’t lived in dress shoes) and keeping things simple but effective — in and out of the therapy room. With Amanda, you’ll get real talk, real strategies, and maybe a few laughs along the way!
Alisha Gardner
MA, LPC
Alisha is a mom, an adventurous home chef who loves trying new recipes, a bookworm, and a travel enthusiast—especially when it comes to exploring national parks. She believes in finding balance in life, whether that’s through a great meal, a great book, or a great hike.
As a counselor, Alisha specializes in helping teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. She has a passion for working with troubled youth and individuals struggling with anger management, offering a supportive space to develop healthier coping strategies. Using a solution-focused approach, she helps clients identify their strengths, set goals, and take practical steps toward positive change.
Makayla Gill
MA, LPC
Makayla is a compassionate therapist who primarily practices from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach while incorporating techniques from other theories to best support her clients. She has a special interest in grief and bereavement, helping individuals process loss and adjust to life after it. While she has a soft spot for working with older adults and their wealth of life experiences, she also enjoys supporting teens and adults through life’s challenges. Her goal is to create a warm and supportive space where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions.
When she’s not in session, Makayla is probably hunting for vintage treasures, adding to her vinyl collection, or watching a classic movie. She has a deep appreciation for old Hollywood, timeless music, and a well-loved antique. Video games are another favorite pastime, often enjoyed with her cat, Mushu, who rules the house. Whether she’s tracking down a rare record or getting lost in a great film, she believes in finding joy in the little things and encourages her clients to do the same.
Alyssa Hawkins
MA, LPC-Associate
Supervised by Kathleen McMahon LPC-S
Alyssa is a dedicated counselor who specializes in play therapy and helping clients navigate anxiety. With years of experience teaching and babysitting children, she has a natural ability to connect with kids, adolescents, and adults alike. Her approach is rooted in Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but she also incorporates solution-focused techniques to tailor treatment to each individual’s needs.
Outside of the therapy room, Alyssa loves trying new things, traveling, and unwinding with a good TV show. An animal lover at heart, she spends plenty of time with her beloved dog, who keeps her life full of joy (and probably a little fur). Whether she’s supporting clients, exploring new places, or enjoying a cozy night in, Alyssa brings warmth, understanding, and a compassionate spirit to everything she does.
Donald "DC" Coffen
MA, LPC-Associate
Supervised by Kathleen McMahon, LPC-S
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Donald “DC” Coffen brings a down-to-earth, supportive approach to counseling, especially when it comes to addiction and recovery. With over 20 years of experience in support groups and a passion for helping others, he specializes in working with individuals navigating addiction and life’s challenges. His approach is rooted in Person-Centered Therapy, meaning he prioritizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity—because real change happens when people feel truly heard and supported.
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Born and raised in Huntsville, TX, DC is all about giving back to the community that shaped him. When he’s not in session, you’ll probably find him deep in conversation about current events, hunting for great new music (while still loving the oldies), or working on his car—thanks to the magic of YouTube tutorials. A lifelong musician, he’s been drumming since he was five and still finds peace in playing music. He also enjoys spending time with family and appreciating the beauty of nature—because sometimes, you just need to step outside and breathe.
Kelly Hurn
MA, LMSW
Supervised by Jennifer Varela, LCSW-S
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Kelly is a therapist who keeps it real, helping couples and teens work through life’s ups and downs without overcomplicating things. With dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Disaster Resiliency Leadership from Tulane (yes, she actually studied disasters—so she can definitely handle yours), she’s all about finding practical solutions. Using a mix of Solution-Focused Therapy and CBT, she helps clients break through the stress, drama, and tough moments to create real change.
When she’s not helping people figure things out, Kelly is probably at the beach, fully embracing her happy place. She’s married with two awesome bonus daughters, which means life is always busy but never boring. She believes in the power of laughter, deep talks, and a good ocean breeze to reset the soul.
Candis Evans
Masters Level Counselor Intern
Supervised by Kathleen McMahon LPC-S
Candis is a devoted mother and supportive friend who appreciates traveling, family bonding, reading, creative writing, and marvel movies, with a profound admiration for pizza.
Her faith and commitment to assisting those in need shapes her moral and ethical principles as a counselor. Candis specializes in supporting individuals across various age groups struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. With extensive experience in aiding children, disadvantaged youth, and adults with chronic mental health conditions, as well as young adults navigating life transitions and stress.
Candis employs a trauma-informed and solution-focused approach. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, she emphasizes the importance of thought patterns, beliefs, attitudes, and values that underlie behavior. Candis is dedicated to empowering others to overcome trauma, cultivate mental wellness, and develop effective coping strategies for stress management and emotional regulation.
Reagan Fulks
Graduate Student Counselor Intern
Supervised by Kathleen McMahon LPC-S
Reagan brings a warm, down-to-earth approach to therapy, creating a space where clients can feel comfortable, supported, and even crack a smile along the way. Sessions start with getting to know each other and setting goals—whether it’s tackling anxiety, improving communication, or just figuring out this whole “life” thing. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she helps clients challenge unhelpful thought patterns, build healthier coping skills, and make real, meaningful changes.
Reagan works with teens, young adults, individuals, and couples facing anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship struggles. Reagan believes therapy should feel like a safe place to learn, grow, and be unapologetically yourself. When she’s not in session, you’ll probably find her lost in a fantasy novel, crocheting something cozy, or spending time with her partner, family, and friends.
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Rise Counseling and Wellness
Our therapists are trauma informed and dedicated to providing quality services. We offer therapy services in-person and online.