Individual, Family, Couples & Group Counseling for All Ages
Chattanooga, Tennessee
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At Roots Counseling Center, you can make yourself at home. When you come to Roots for the first time, you’ll find a charming 1930s home with a welcoming atmosphere. As you enter through the foyer, help yourself to a warm mug of coffee or tea. Feel free to check out our library or just settle into a quiet space in our living room and take a deep breath. Let this be a wide, open space for your spirit and soul to come out. We look forward to meeting you and joining with you on your journey toward health and wholeness.
Roots Counseling Center is a Christian mental health center interested in caring for the whole person – body, mind and spirit. At Roots all are welcome and will be cared for with equally intentional care regardless of race, age, socioeconomic status, religion, gender or sexual orientation.
“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive.” Brene Brown, Daring Greatly
COUNSELORS
Dr. Jeff Eckert, Clinical Director
Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Dr. Jeff Eckert has been counseling individuals, couples, families and groups from a relational perspective for over 20 years, working with a broad range of ages and backgrounds, from teenagers to senior adults. Jeff specializes in trauma, addiction, men’s issues and oppositional behavior in adolescents, balancing care and love with firm challenge to create a healing environment. Utilizing spiritual tools, mindfulness techniques and EMDR, Jeff partners with his clients to continue the healing process in those who may feel too broken to be helped. Jeff also brings years of group therapy experience and loves facilitating two men’s therapy groups and annual retreats. Jeff also offers intensive marital and family therapy experiences to get to the core wounds of individuals and families coming out of significant trauma experiences.
Jeff’s primary specialization is in the area of sexuality, including abuse, sexual addiction, orientation, or sexual dysfunction. Because sexuality is core to who we are in our deepest places, it impacts many areas of our lives. Jeff’s mission is to create a safe place to wrestle with anything a person brings to him. Jeff is launching a two-day sexual addiction intensive treatment program in 2017 to provide a comprehensive set of beginning steps in recovery. Prior to co-founding Roots with his wife, Dr. Kim Eckert, Jeff was the director of the Henegar Counseling Center and the Richmont Trauma Center in Chattanooga, TN. Jeff is also a clinical faculty member at Richmont Graduate University.
Education
Jeff earned doctorate and master’s degrees in clinical psychology from Wheaton College (IL), a Master’s in Social Work from West Virginia University, and an undergraduate degree from Wheaton College (IL).
Dr. Kim Gaines Eckert, Administrative Director
Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Kim Eckert has 20 years of counseling experience helping people on their journeys toward wholeness. She specializes in relationship issues, sexuality, coping skills, spirituality, anxiety, self-esteem, worry and depression. Kim partners with clients who feel stuck or exhausted in their efforts to feel better and get better. Within the context of authentic relationship, she utilizes her training in mindfulness and EMDR therapy along with a dynamic, interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral approach to change, hope and health.
In addition to counseling, Kim is a national retreat and conference speaker and the author of two books with InterVarsity Press: Stronger Than You Think: Becoming Whole Without Having to be Perfect (2007) and Things Your Mother Never Told You: A Woman’s Guide to Sexuality (2014).
Kim also publishes articles for Christianity Today and on her blog at www.drkimeckert.com. Prior to co-founding Roots with her husband, Dr. Jeff Eckert, Kim counseled at the Relationship Therapy Center in Chattanooga, TN, and was a psychology professor at Lee University in Cleveland, TN.
Education
Kim is a licensed psychologist and earned her master’s and doctorate in clinical psychology at Wheaton College (IL), where she also received graduate theology training. Kim completed an undergraduate honors degree from the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) with a double major in English and anthropology.
Bucky Broadrick, PharmD, M.A.
Counselor
Bucky’s experience as a pharmacist combined with his training as a professional counselor are integrated in his relational approach to counseling. Bucky specializes in vocation and calling, coping with chronic medical conditions, trauma, loss, group work, issues men face, addiction and recovery. Bucky believes that counseling is a collaborative relationship between the therapist and counselee. In the safety of the therapeutic relationship, Bucky works with clients to provide an understanding of past and current relationships and how those can be a catalyst for change. Bucky combines interpersonal process, cognitive-behavioral interventions, EMDR and narrative therapy to help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves and to develop goals that will lead to sustained growth and healing.
In addition to counseling, Bucky continues his work as a pharmacist for Panoramic Health, a company that helps patients with chronic conditions gain access to quality medical care while controlling costs. At Roots, Bucky will be launching a men’s process group centered on issues of sexuality and recovery.
Education
Bucky received his Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Georgia and his M.A. in Professional Counseling from Richmont Graduate University. Bucky is currently pursuing licensure as a professional counselor in the State of Tennessee.
Luke Campbell, M.Div., M.A., LPC-MHSP
Licensed Professional Counselor
Over the last 7 years Luke has been working as a professional counselor in Milwaukee, WI, and the Chicago, IL area. Luke believes we care best for what we understand. He values creating space for intentional listening to discover how personal uniqueness finds expression within the contours of life. Luke works collaboratively with individuals, families and adolescents to move into new ways of seeing old patterns and increase awareness around the stories we often tell ourselves about ourselves, our relationships and the world around us.
Luke recognizes one of the most significant challenges in life is to simply be ourselves, to be fully alive with all of our God-given gifts, talents and skills. Throughout his career Luke has helped others work through issues related to anxiety, depression, addiction, marital and relational conflict, vocational and career issues, and issues related to disability. As a veteran, Luke enjoys working with veteran's issues as well. As an ordained pastor Luke integrates spiritual direction throughout the course of therapy.
Luke recognizes one of the most significant challenges in life is to simply be ourselves, to be fully alive with all of our God-given gifts, talents and skills. Throughout his career Luke has helped others work through issues related to anxiety, depression, addiction, marital and relational conflict, vocational and career issues, and issues related to disability. As a veteran, Luke enjoys working with veteran's issues as well. As an ordained pastor Luke integrates spiritual direction throughout the course of therapy.
Education
Luke earned his Masters degrees in Mental Health Counseling and Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, IL. He holds a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider license in Tennessee and is also a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. He is a Board Certified Counselor through the National Board for Certified Counselors. Luke completed his undergraduate degree in Youth Ministry from King College in Bristol, Tennessee.
Kellie Currin, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Kellie Currin offers her clients a solid and steady presence for growth and healing. She works with children ages 11 and up, as well as adults, families and couples. Kellie believes that therapy is a place of self-discovery where unique strengths can be uncovered and where those who feel alienated can reconnect. Kellie approaches therapy from a systems and relational perspective, which means looking at life history and context to evaluate the impact current and past relationships have on functioning. Kellie also uses mindfulness skills and Brainspotting to aid in coping and increase functioning that cannot be accomplished through talk therapy alone. Kellie works with a variety of concerns including adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, body image issues, self-harm, relationship struggles, high sensitivity, grief/ loss and trauma.
Kellie also leads a group for adolescent girls called A Place to Belong, designed to address insecurity, self-discovery, and independence. The group may be a helpful option if your daughter struggles with: social anxiety, self-esteem, setting healthy boundaries with others, being assertive, a sense of personal identity.
Education
Kellie is a licensed marital and family therapist and earned her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Richmont Graduate University with a specialization in Trauma Counseling. Kellie’s post-master’s work was completed at the Henegar Counseling Center in Chattanooga. Kellie completed her undergraduate degree at Berry College, majoring in Psychology with a double minor in Women’s Studies and Family Studies.
Rachel Cox Downer, M.A., LPC-MHSP
Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Cox Downer works with adolescent and adult individuals, couples and families around issues of complex trauma, anxiety, identity development, female sexuality, relationship issues and boundaries. With an open, non-judgmental relational approach she fosters empowerment with her clients. Rachel utilizes mindfulness skills, EMDR, body work, cognitive-behavioral therapy interventions and interpersonal therapy.
Rachel has worked in a variety of settings, most recently at the Lee University Counseling Center, where she co-facilitated therapeutic movement groups, women's issues groups, and served clients struggling with anxiety, trauma, self-worth and relationship issues. Rachel has also worked in community mental health providing services to clients with a wide range of ages and presenting problems.
Education
Rachel is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Tennessee. Rachel received her B.A. in Psychology and Child and Family Studies from University of Tennessee, Knoxville and her M.A. in Professional Counseling from Richmont Graduate University, with specialized training in Christian sex therapy and trauma counseling.
Blake Feagans, M.A.
Counselor
Blake Feagans works with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a wide array of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional behavior, relational issues, academic problems, spirituality, sexual addiction, sexual identity, grief and loss. Blake approaches therapy through a holistic, person-centered, and relational framework, striving to connect with each of his clients in a genuine way in order to create a safe space for everyone who enters his office. With trust as the foundation of his work, Blake utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy interventions, interpersonal therapy, EMDR, play therapy techniques, and mindfulness skills. He is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC) Framework.
Prior to joining Roots full-time, Blake provided counseling services in Hamilton County’s Opportunity Zone schools and at the Lee University Counseling Center. He co-facilitates Brotherhood, a men's therapy group, with Dr. Jeff Eckert.
Education
Blake received his graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Richmont Graduate University (TN) and his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Lee University (TN). Blake is a Chattanooga native and a McCallie School graduate. Blake is a Board Certified Counselor through the National Board for Certified Counselors and is currently pursuing full licensure as a professional counselor for the state of Tennessee.
Andrea Milligan Moody, LMFT, RPT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist,
Registered Play Therapist
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist,
Registered Play Therapist
Andrea Moody brings extensive experience counseling children, adolescents and adults in both an outpatient counseling environment as well as intensive in-home therapy. Drawing from family systems, interpersonal and cognitive-behavioral approaches, she collaborates with clients on their personal journeys towards lasting change. Andrea specializes in childhood trauma, sexual trauma, family conflict, attachment issues, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, poor self-esteem, anxiety, anger and addiction. Through the therapeutic relationship, she provides a safe and inviting place to be vulnerable, to process life adjustments and to begin learning healthy coping skills.
Andrea is trained in EMDR therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidenced based treatment modality for children and adolescents. Andrea is a registered play therapist with the Association for Play therapy and has received extensive training in play therapy and incorporates art, sand tray, parent-child interaction and child-centered play techniques in her treatment.
Education
Andrea is a licensed marital and family therapist and completed her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy at Lee University (Cleveland, TN). Andrea completed her post-master’s work at Centerstone, where she counseled individuals from a diverse range of ages and cultural backgrounds. Andrea earned her undergraduate degree in psychology from Bryan College (Dayton, TN).
Sarah Otis, Ph.D.
Provisionally Licensed Psychologist
Sarah Otis is a postdoctoral fellow currently working toward full licensure as a psychologist. She provides psychological assessments for individuals across the lifespan, as well as individual and couples therapy. Sarah utilizes an integrative approach that includes cognitive behavioral interventions and an exploration of how the past influences the present and the future, all within the dynamic context of the therapeutic relationship. She believes therapy is a collaborative journey, with clients being an expert on their own lives. Sarah enjoys working with individuals across the lifespan around depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, and relationship discord. Sarah also provides psychological evaluations for a wide range of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, learning disability, intellectual disability, and emotional/behavioral difficulties. She enjoys working with individuals of all ages, but has a special interest in helping children and families in such a pivotal time of life.
Education
Sarah holds a PhD in clinical psychology, with a concentration in neuropsychology. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychobiology from Southern Adventist University and a master's degree in clinical psychology from Fielding Graduate University. Prior to joining Roots, Sarah completed a pre-doctoral internship with rotations in neuropsychology, geriatric extended care, and PTSD/Substance Use Disorders at Robley Rex VA Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
sotis@rootscounselingcenter.com
Sarah holds a PhD in clinical psychology, with a concentration in neuropsychology. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychobiology from Southern Adventist University and a master's degree in clinical psychology from Fielding Graduate University. Prior to joining Roots, Sarah completed a pre-doctoral internship with rotations in neuropsychology, geriatric extended care, and PTSD/Substance Use Disorders at Robley Rex VA Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
sotis@rootscounselingcenter.com
Juliet Thomas, M.S.Ed., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Juliet works with children ages 3-12, as well as adolescents, adults and families. She has over eight years of experience working with families, helping them reach their therapeutic goals. Juliet specializes in counseling children and families experiencing anxiety, depression, academic problems, attachment issues and abuse, as well as divorce, co-parenting and custody issues. Juliet brings a fun-loving and flexible approach to her work with children, while also offering support, empathy and structure for families in crisis.
Juliet believes in the goodness of people and empowerment of others. She appreciates the person holistically and utilizes mindfulness, contemporary alternative treatments, cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy and collaboration with clients to work toward meaningful change. We all have a story to tell and she would love to hear yours.
Education
Juliet obtained her Master's degree from Western Illinois University and is currently finishing her doctorate in Counseling Education and Supervision from Argosy University Nashville. Juliet received her Bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in sociology and women's studies from St. Ambrose University.
Sydney Hasty
Graduate Intern
Sydney Hasty is passionate about working with individual adults and teenagers surrounding a variety of issues such as anxiety, anger, life transitions, addictions, grief, self-esteem, and depression. She considers it an honor to walk alongside clients through pain, healing, and personal growth. Her gift of empathy paired with her nonjudgmental presence provide a safe and supportive space for others to process life experiences as they journey toward wholeness. Sydney utilizes multiple counseling approaches based on her client's needs including mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, interpersonal techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Her ultimate goal as a therapist is to establish therapeutic relationships where her clients feel accepted and empowered to take steps toward holistic growth and freedom leading to more abundant life.
Education
Sydney is currently a student at Richmont Graduate University in Chattanooga, pursuing a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. While completing her internship at Roots, she is under the supervision of Dr. Kim Eckert. Sydney completed her undergraduate degree at Moody Bible Institute with a major in Ministry to Victims of Sexual Exploitation and a minor in Bible.
Kristin Smith
Graduate Intern
Sometimes life lands us in a place where we just feel stuck. Kristin is here to walk with you through those dark places of trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, marital issues, or deep loss. She has been trained in a variety of evidence-based therapy styles including cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, and family systems therapies. Because no two people are exactly alike, she tailors her therapy style to each individual, couple, or family, partnering with them to find their own unique solution.
As a professional firefighter for almost 20 years, Kristin has cultivated skills in problem solving, bringing stability to chaos, and offering a sense of hope that naturally cross into her therapy style. This experience gives her a depth of understanding into the unique struggles first responders and their families must navigate.
Education
Kristin is pursuing her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in trauma therapy at Richmont Graduate University. In addition, she received in-depth trauma training at the Justice Resource Institute in Boston, MA., and has completed Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
"I am not what happened to me.
I am what I choose to become."
Carl Jung
Whether trees are blossoming under the fragrant sunshine of spring or dormant under the harsh winter cold, life is always happening under the ground’s surface. We experience seasons of fruitfulness, loss and pain in our own lives as well. Our mission is to walk with you through whatever season you find yourself in, both to uncover the roots of pain and to find sources of life hidden under the surface for renewal, transformation and growth. At Roots Counseling Center we partner with you to build creative, collaborative, compassionate relationships for lasting change.
"They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green." Jeremiah 17:7