We meet people where they are without judgment and help them be the best they can be.

Our Vision 

Our vision is to be East Central Georgia’s behavioral health care choice. 

Our Mission 

The mission of Serenity Behavioral Health is to provide the highest quality behavioral health and developmental disabilities care in a professional, responsive, and caring manner, which is valued by individuals, families, communities, and employees.  We assist all individuals in achieving and living their best lives possible.   

Our Values 

Our values are based on principles that set guidelines for our interactions with individuals, families, advocates, community representatives, and governing bodies. 

Respect • Integrity/EthicalCompetencyCompassion • Accountability 
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How your journey starts.

Since joining the Serenity Team 7 years ago I have watched Serenity continue to evolve and grow to become a caring and competent mental health service provider to the counties that we serve. Our team continually serves with enthusiasm to provide the highest-level of ethical care and professionalism each and every day for each person receiving care at Serenity. Our goal is to effectively collaborate with each individual for an increased walk towards wellness and positive change. . 

John Moore
Chief Clinical Officer

Serenity Behavioral Health Systems (SBHS) began providing mental health, addictive disease, and developmental disability services to the Richmond County community in 1974. SBHS has been a long-standing behavioral health provider of the Division of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). Despite the numerous changes and challenges in the field of behavioral health over the years, we have continued to demonstrate dedication to serving the individuals in the community with a mission to provide the highest quality behavioral health and developmental disabilities care in a professional, responsive, and caring manner which is valued by individuals, families, communities, and employees.

Meet Our Leadership Team

Picture of Chuck Williamson

Chuck Williamson

Chief Executive Officer

Picture of Todd Deal

Todd Deal

Chief Financial Officer

Picture of Kim Hardiman

Kim Hardiman

CSU Program Director

John Moore – Clinical Director

John Moore

Clinical Director

Picture of Terrell Yelverton

Terrell Yelverton

Adult Outpatient Healthcare Director

Picture of Cyndi Taylor

Cyndi Taylor

Program Director Addictive Disease Services

Picture of Karen D. Paschal

Karen D. Paschal

Community Services Program Director

Picture of Laurie Bradford

Laurie Bradford

Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Program Director

Picture of Samuel Reyes

Samuel Reyes

IT Director and HIPAA Security Officer

Picture of Michelle Broadwater

Michelle Broadwater

Quality Assurance and Utilization Management Director and HIPAA Privacy Officer

Picture of Valerie Lamb

Valerie Lamb

Human Resources Director

Kretika Landells-Fraser

Kretika Landells-Fraser

Child and Adolescent Program Director

Meet Our Counselors

My name is Shirley Bowman, CPCS, I am licensed in the states of Georgia and South Carolina. I have been working in the field of counseling for 10 years. I use many forms of therapy but, I am a strong believer in two evidenced-based theories i.e. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Processing Theory (CPT) while providing a structured and supported environment for the individuals I meet.

I have a strong belief that if a person can change their thoughts about an issue of any kind, their behavior will soon follow. I also believe that a person needs to recognize their negative thoughts that are mostly created by trauma so that they can process them and move forward in life.

I obtained a Master of Social Work degree in 2023 after working almost ten years in social services and mental health. I’ve had the opportunity to serve children and adults living with intellectual disabilities and mental health diagnoses. My primary focus areas are depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. I always strive for a collaborative and person-centered approach with each person I serve. My ultimate goal is to help you find you again.

I enjoy working with children/adolescents and adults in working on whatever issues they have come to see me about that is interfering in their daily lives and work on making their life more productive and enjoyable. I believe everyone has the potential to live a happy and productive life. I work with people on their individual issues to help problem solve and try to improve their quality of life using various interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy and support.

I appreciate the opportunity to serve people and to help them realize their potential and ability to overcome adversity. I implore that they can be happy and live a productive life in their community and sphere influence. I work with individuals on coping skills, problem solve and life skills planning by using various interventions and goal setting that includes person centered therapy and motivational interviewing. I offer individual counseling via face to face for Major Depressive Disorder, Bi-Polar I and II, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, GAD and co-occurring disorders.

Amanda Miller serves Serenity Behavioral Health as both the CSI Program Manager and Therapist counseling adults and other individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, stress, and struggling to address other difficulties in life. Ms. Miller graduated from Troy University with a Master of Science in Counseling Clinical Mental Health and utilizes solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness based cognitive based therapy, motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy to help those in her community learn the coping skills they need to handle life’s challenges and grow into the person they want to be.

Barbara has been a Behavioral Health Counselor at Serenity for over a year now. She brings to the clinic experience working with adults, geriatrics, couples and families. Barbara obtained her master’s degree in social work from Fordham University’s Graduate School of Social Services. Currently she is working towards Clinical Licensure. She is educated and trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Motivational Interviewing and is Trauma Informed. She comes from a clinical background as a nurse where she worked in inpatient psychiatry, traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, as well as in the military community. Barbara’s goal for individual counseling is to provide a safe and supportive environment to create individualized treatment goals with her clients. As well as utilizing evidence-based interventions by using a variety of therapeutic modalities.

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor, Masters Addiction Counselor, Certified Anger Management Specialist

Being of service to others, to aide or be a bridge towards improving one’s quality of life, wellness and sense of self is the type of therapist that I am. What drives and motivates me is when one’s desired personal or mental health goals are fulfilled and come into fruition. To be able to witness and experience the positive changes with an individual is what makes what I do as a therapist worth it. I am genuine, respectful, non-judgmental, open-minded and empathetic.

Educational background: MS in Counseling from Webster University, Patrick AFB

Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Fayetteville State University

National Certified Counselor since 2009 through NBCC

National Certified Masters Addiction Counselor since 2013 through NBCC

Certified Anger Management Specialist

Experience: I have been a therapist for over 21 years within the agency of Serenity Behavioral Health Systems as a mental health and substance abuse counselor. I consider myself to be eclectic with the ability to work with diverse populations. I offer individual therapy in person or via telehealth addressing a variety of issues one may present with, such as addiction (s), anxiety, anger management, depression, low self-esteem, medical, lack of coping skills, lack of motivation or that of dual diagnosis. I incorporate various treatment modalities (CBT, MI, DBT, Humanistic, Reality, Solution Focused, Person-Centered, Mindfulness) that will accommodate the need of the individual towards meeting their desired goals.

I am a licensed, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapist who believes that every person has the ability to become empowered, and to grow and heal. My counseling style is client-centered and I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities, using what best suits each individual person. I am here to support and encourage you on your journey to wellness.

I enjoy working with adults who are experiencing challenges such as depression, anxiety, and other symptoms due to past experiences of trauma or life difficulties. My specialty is working with clients who have experienced trauma of any kind. Using EMDR in session, clients will feel less activated by their trauma and more able to move traumatic, challenging memories to the past, where they belong, so people can enjoy their present lives more fully. My therapy style is eclectic, tailoring treatment to the preferences of the client. I have been trained as a social worker and therapist in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, and EMDR. My practice is person-centered and trauma informed.

Education

Associates of Science from Georgia Military College, Bachelor of Arts Degree from Augusta State University, Master of Science from Troy University.

Experience

I am a Behavioral Health Counselor with at least 10 years of clinical experience. My emphasis is on helping adults as well as youths overcome anxieties, depression, poor anger control, sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders through utilizing evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral therapy, problem-solving therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness therapy, motivational interviewing. I provide a supportive and collaborative space for individuals seeking to pilot life challenges. With a focus on these evidenced-base methods, I encourage consumers to develop coping mechanisms to achieve long lasting positive change.

Hello, I’m Brittany Sunkett, MSW, CMAC (Certified Master Addiction Counselor). I have a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas in Arlington and Certified Master Addiction Counselor through the Georgia Addictions Counselors Association. I enjoy working with adults with mental health and substance use disorders to regain purpose in their lives and become the best version of themselves through counseling. I enjoy providing therapy to individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and substance use. I have specialized in substance abuse counseling for the past 7 years providing individual and group counseling. I started my career as a substance abuse counselor working in a therapeutic community (TC) with women in prison in a 9-month program prior to working in outpatient. I currently work in a Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Grant Program assisting individuals with opioid and alcohol use disorders.

Types of Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in various settings including community mental health, residential substance abuse treatment, and the prison system. I believe we all deserve the chance to be the best version of ourselves and I’m here to walk through that journey with my clients. I provide solution focused individual counseling where I help people process problems in their lives and figure out ways to move forward into living the best life possible.

Many people find it difficult to talk about what they have gone through, which can make them feel as though they are alone in their experience. My aim is to make the therapeutic process a comfortable transition by focusing on realistic goals.

My name is Rosemarie Adkins, and I hold a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling and Psychology. My journey has been a unique blend of experiences that have shaped my professional life and personal values. As a proud mother of four amazing adults, who continue to fill my life with joy and happiness, I have gained invaluable insights into the complexities of growth and development. Additionally, I am blessed to have two incredible grandsons who are not only my family but also my best friends.

In my practice, I utilize evidence-based approaches tailored to the unique needs of each individual. I strive to empower my clients by equipping them with the tools and strategies necessary for personal growth and resilience. It is my hope that through our collaborative efforts, they will learn to value themselves and embrace their potential.

Hi, my name is Cindy Beck, and I was born and raised in Augusta, Ga. Educated in Richmond County school system. A 1995 graduate of A.R.Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School. A 1999 graduate of Augusta State University- B.A. Sociology, Minor Social Work and Criminal Justice. 2007 graduate of Troy University-Augusta Campus- M.S. Counseling and Psychology. The mother of 2 young adult children. Youngest sibling- 2 older brothers. I enjoy listening to music, singing, spending time with family, coordinating ministry activities/events for youth and young adults. I am also the leader of the Young Adult Ministry at my local church.

Hello, my name is Brittany Jones. I graduated from Fort Valley State University with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am a Child and Adolescent counselor for Serenity Behavioral Health Systems. As a clinician I utilize different modalities of treatment such as CBT, Person-Centered, Solution Focus, and DBT. When I am not playing video games during my free time, I enjoy raising money for charity by selling ecofriendly golf balls at golf tournaments. My favorite quote is by Stanislav Grof which reads, “The human psyche shows that each individual is an extension of all existence.”

Hello there! My name is Kretika Landells-Fraser. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is passionate about meeting clients where they are on their life journey and helping them to process the challenges they are facing. I’ve received my master’s from Adams State University and have been practicing for the past 4 years. Within those 4 years, my passion is working with children/adolescents diagnosed with several disorders, including depression, anxiety, suicidality, self-injurious behaviors, and emotional dysregulation.

My primary theoretical approach is person-centered, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); however, I am aware that everyone is different and unique in their own way. Therefore, I consider various approaches for treatment based on your needs assessment during the initial appointment.

My therapy style is transparent and warm. I strive to create a judgment free zone, a safe space for you to share your story, your journey, feel heard, and foster positive change in your life.

Hello, my name is Janina Mason. I graduated from Troy University with a master’s in counseling and minor in Clinical Mental Health. I am a Child and Adolescent counselor for Serenity Behavioral Health Systems within the Child and Adolescents unit. My tenure at Serenity Behavior Health Systems has been brief, but impactful. In my brief tenure, I have been provided an opportunity to utilize different modalities of treatment (CBT, Person-Centered, Solution Focus, DBT, and other interventions to service the needs of the clients and their families). Apart from serving the community in a mental health capacity, I volunteer with non-profit organizations to feed and clothe the homeless in the CSRA region, and abroad.

In my spare time, I enjoy self-development, reading and related activities, to become the best version of myself and to sustain personal growth, with the goal of helping others do the same. My favorite quote that helps me to keep me accountable on my self-development journey is, “One can choose to go back toward safety or forward towards growth. Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again”. – Author Abraham Maslow

Aaron Rose is a counselor in training working towards his LPC licensure at Serenity Behavioral Health in Augusta, GA since August 2024. He has a master’s in clinical/counseling psychology from Augusta State University. Aaron takes a client-centered, integrative approach to counseling that incorporates techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness. Aaron has worked in collegiate and community settings with students and children dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, relationship concerns, and grief. He believes in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for his clients to explore their concerns while developing a trusting therapeutic relationship. Outside of work, Aaron enjoys listening to music, exercising, and spending time with his loved ones.

Hello, I’m Moriah, a counselor with a Master’s in Education specializing in Counselor Education. I have experience working with diverse populations and supporting individuals on their unique therapeutic journeys. My approach is rooted in person-centered and cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, ensuring that each session is tailored to your specific needs and goals. I am passionate about advocating for my clients and creating a safe, supportive space where they can explore their emotions, build resilience, and achieve emotional well-being. Together, we will work towards empowering you to navigate life’s challenges and discover your best self. I look forward to walking alongside you on this journey!

Comprehensive Community
Needs Assessment

The purpose of the following report is to identify the behavioral health needs and concerns of the community that SBHS serves. Serenity Behavioral Health Systems and its consulting partner, TRX Development Solutions, LLC, completed a needs assessment with the community to determine cultural, linguistic, treatment, and service needs, and determine the accessibility and availability of the identified needed services. The community needs assessment was completed between January and March 2024, and consisted of publicly available data collected by government agencies and service providers, population surveys of individuals served, and focus groups with individuals served, peers, stakeholders, and SBHS staff.

Meet The Board of Directors

Columbia County: Dr. Chris Mace: County Rep.; Roxanne Whitaker: Elected Official County Rep.

Richmond County: Jeff Drake: County Rep.; Dr. Frank McPhail: Vice Chairperson County Rep.; Brandon Garrett: Elected Official Chairperson; Susie Felz: Secretary-Treasurer  County Rep.

Lincoln County: Vacant: County Rep.

Taliaferro County: Vacant: County Rep.

Wilkes County: M. V. Booker: County Rep.

McDuffie County: Eleanor McMannon: County Rep.

Warren County: Vacant: County Rep.

If you are interested in serving or have a compassionate, impact-driven community member
you think would be a great fit for our board, please reach out to us at (706) 432-4942 or Info@serenitybhs.com.

We would be honored and grateful for your interest in serving.

Accreditation
CARF International accreditation demonstrates a programs quality, transparency, and commitment to the satisfaction of the persons served. CARF International is an independent, not-for-profit accreditor of human service providers in the areas of Aging Services, Behavioral Health, Child and Youth Services, Durable Medical Equipment, Employment and Community Services, Medical Rehabilitation, and Opioid Treatment Programs.