New Client Request Form
Coastal Center Clinicians
Christa Bhagat Smith, M.A., LPC
she/her
Licensed Professional Counselor
christa@coastal-center.com
License #C9135
CCCH employee since 2020
Online only Mondays - Thursdays
I accept Self-pay, Medicare, BCBS, Moda, Samaritan Choice, PacificSource Commercial, and IHN
*Schedule is FULL; Waitlist is OPEN*
My primary focus is on individual clients ages 14 and above who are seeking assistance with anxiety and PTSD, improving communication within systems, addressing non-white identity issues, and exploring the process of religious deconstruction.
The different types of clinical approaches that I use include: solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-systems therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand how their interactions with the world affect their daily lives.
I completed my M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver.
John Butler VI, Ph.D. Candidate, LMFT
he/him
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
john@coastal-center.com
License #T1258
¡hablo español!
CCCH employee since 2019
At the Corvallis office/online on Wednesdays & Thursdays
Online only Mondays, Tuesdays, & Fridays
I accept Self-pay, Medicare, Moda, IHN, Samaritan Choice, PacificSource Commercial, and BCBS
*Schedule is FULL; Waitlist is CLOSED*
I would be honored to be your therapist and help you and family obtain the support and hope you deserve.
I seek to nurture client change and growth by exploring and enhancing clients’ strengths, successes, and solutions to the problem. I view clients’ experiences through a systemic lens and use an integrative approach to treatment. I employ a collaborative, solution-focused, and narrative family therapy stance to help individuals, couples, and families realize new possibilities and think, feel, and interact in positive and adaptive ways.
I completed my M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Purdue University.
*I also can communicate in Spanish*
Dawn Cassube, M.S.
she/her
Professional Counselor Associate
Dawn@coastal-center.com
Registration #R11088
Supervised by Amanda Whelen, M.S., LPC, CADCI
CCCH employee since 2025
At the Corvallis office/online Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Online only Thursdays & Fridays
I accept Self-pay, Moda, and IHN
*Has Limited Availability; Waitlist is OPEN*
I believe that healing happens in a supportive and collaborative space where your strengths are recognized and built upon. Using a strengths-based, mindfulness approach, I work alongside you to navigate challenges and create meaningful change.
I have experience working with individuals ages 14 and older, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, trauma survivors, and clients facing depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, and those on the autism spectrum and their families. My specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) allows me to provide effective support for those processing trauma.
Together, we will work toward empowerment, resilience, and growth. I completed my M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix and am under the supervision of Amanda Whelen, meeting for 2-4 hours of supervision each month.
Betsy Dasenko, M.A.
she/her
Professional Counselor Associate
Betsy@coastal-center.com
Registration #R9767
Supervised by Julie Ramisch, Ph.D., LMFT
CCCH employee since 2025
At the Corvallis office/online Mondays & Wednesdays
Online only Tuesdays & Thursdays
I accept Self-pay, Moda, and IHN
*Has Limited Availability; Waitlist is OPEN*
I work with individuals navigating life’s challenges, including anxiety, stress, life transitions, and self-confidence struggles. I have experience supporting women adjusting to motherhood, LGBTQ+ and trans clients, and young professionals and college students finding their way in work, school, and relationships. My approach is rooted in person-centered and humanistic therapy, incorporating family systems and assessment to create a supportive, tailored experience for each client.
Before becoming a counselor, I spent 23 years as an educator, working with students from all over the world. This experience gives me a deep understanding of cultural identity, life transitions, and the unique challenges that come with navigating different cultural perspectives. I am passionate about providing an inclusive, affirming space where you feel heard and supported.
I earned my M.A. in Mental Health Counseling from Oregon State University (OSU) and also hold an M.A. in Education from OSU. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to work with you.
I am under the supervision of Dr. Julie Ramisch. We meet for 2-4 hours of supervision each month.
Brianne LaBauve, M.S.
she/her
Professional Counselor Associate
Brianne@coastal-center.com
Registration #R111076
Supervised by Amanda Whelen, M.S., LPC, CADCI
CCCH employee since 2025
At the Corvallis office/online Mondays & Wednesdays
I accept Self-pay, Moda, and IHN
*Schedule is FULL; Waitlist is OPEN*
I am genuinely committed to understanding and connecting with the unique experiences of each individual I work with. By recognizing the importance of seeing the world through each person's lived experiences, and with a deep respect for each person’s journey, my counseling approach is grounded in a holistic understanding of mental health, personal growth, relationships, and trauma-informed care. I strive to create a non-judgemental, compassionate, and supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges, get to know their strengths, heal, and thrive.
Building on a foundation of mindfulness, my therapeutic practice integrates person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches. As a former yoga instructor, I bring a somatic perspective to my work, recognizing the profound connection between the mind and body. I incorporate techniques that address physical, mental and emotional experiences. I enjoy helping clients cultivate resilience, achieve self-awareness, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.
I earned my M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Western Oregon University. I am under the supervision of Amanda Whelen. We meet for 2-4 hours of supervision each month.
Morgan McCoy, M.A.
she/her
Professional Counselor Associate
Morgan@coastal-center.com
Registration #R9289
Supervised by Julie Ramisch, Ph.D., LMFT
CCCH employee since 2024
At the Corvallis office/online Sundays
Online only Mondays & Wednesdays
I accept Self-pay, Moda, and IHN
*Schedule is FULL; Waitlist is OPEN*
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I want to help you achieve whatever life changes you are looking for while experiencing yourself in new ways.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples, especially around issues related to sexual trauma, anxiety, ADHD, school stress, life transitions, relationships and communication. I also enjoy working with older adults around issues related to memory loss and grief.
My therapeutic lens is a client-centered approach and incorporates cultural-relational, emotion-focused, and cognitive-behavioral theories utilizing art therapy interventions. Art therapy is a therapeutic modality that focuses on the art process to externalize problems as well as to express, work through and transform emotions and cognitions. Using art therapy is never a requirement in treatment, it’s an extra tool that’s available for you if you are interested. I also utilize play therapy with children.
I completed my M.A. in Art Therapy from Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling. I am under the supervision of Dr. Julie Ramisch. We meet for 2-4 hours of supervision each month.
Jacob Merritt, M.A., NCC, LPC
he/him
Licensed Professional Counselor
jacob@coastal-center.com
License #C7695
CCCH employee since 2020
Online only Mondays - Thursdays
I accept Self-pay, Medicare, IHN, Samaritan Choice, Moda, Providence, PacificSource Commercial, and BCBS
*Has Availability; Waitlist is OPEN*
Throughout my career, I have gained valuable experience in providing counseling services to undergraduate college students and individuals with disabilities.
My counseling approach is person-centered, although I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as deemed suitable.
I have the most success working with individual clients between the ages of 14 and 30, as well as those who are 50 years old and above. These individuals often struggle with issues such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anger management.
It would be a privilege for me to accompany you on this journey of self-improvement.
I completed my M.A. degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Texas at Tyler.
Aidan Morda, M.S.
he/him
Professional Counselor Associate
Aidan@coastal-center.com
Registration #R11366
Supervised by Julie Ramisch, Ph.D., LMFT
CCCH employee since 2025
At the Corvallis office/online Thursdays & Fridays
Online only Wednesdays & Saturdays
I accept Self-pay, Moda, and IHN
*Schedule is FULL; Waitlist is OPEN*
Whether it's managing stress and overwhelming emotions, navigating strenuous relationships, or moving through trauma, I plan to help you find a sense of peace.
Together, we will create a space in which we can identify, deconstruct, and change the patterns in your life that no longer serve you. I take a holistic and collaborative approach to therapy accounting for physical, psychological, social, and transpersonal factors that contribute to your lived experience, and finding ways to navigate how these factors influence our mode of being. My practice draws from person-centered, existential, cognitive, systemic theories, and integrates creative arts and somatic awareness to provide a well-rounded and meaningful experience.
I have experience working with individuals and groups enduring significant stress, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and a variety of other concerns. I primarily work with adults, and also have experience working with adolescents. I am trained in Traditional Talk Therapy, Music Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR).
Regardless of if we’re managing emotions and daily stressors, creating meaning and direction in a chaotic world, or just creating a space to relax and let the dust settle, I hope to help you find whichever path is most beneficial to you.
I earned a B.M in Music Therapy from Marywood University, as well as Master’s of Music Therapy and an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Loyola University New Orleans. I am also trained in EMDR to treat PTSD. I am currently under the supervision of Dr. Julie Ramisch. We meet for 2-4 hours of supervision each month to assure quality therapy is provided to all clients.
Julie Ramisch, Ph.D., LMFT
she/her
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
julie@coastal-center.com
OR License #T1160
WA License #LF61316486
IL License #166000892
Clinical Director
Opened CCCH in 2016
At the Corvallis office/online Sundays & Mondays
Online only Tuesdays
I accept Self-pay, Medicare, Moda, IHN, OHP Open Card, Samaritan Choice, Providence, PacificSource Commercial, and BCBS
*Schedule is FULL; Waitlist is CLOSED*
I graduated from Purdue University Calumet with my master's degree, and then Michigan State University with my Ph.D.. I worked as an assistant professor at a university before starting Coastal Center in 2016. I am a AAMFT Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor and I enjoy supervising associate therapists.
I utilize a collaborative approach combining solution-focused, trauma-focused, and narrative family therapies to assist individuals, couples, and families in uncovering fresh possibilities and fostering positive and adaptive thoughts, emotions, and interactions.
My expertise lies in working effectively with clients who are ages 30 years and above, particularly those facing challenges in relationships and requiring assistance in managing occupational stressors. I have extra training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and use this to assist couples in identifying unhelpful or hurtful patterns and learning to connect with each other in deeper ways. Ultimately, my primary objective is to ensure that my clients perceive therapy as a beneficial and fruitful experience.
Sam Reed, M.S.
he/they
Professional Counselor Associate
Sam@coastal-center.com
Registration #R9639
Supervised by Amanda Whelen, M.S., LPC, CADCI
CCCH employee since 2024
At the Corvallis office/online Saturdays & Mondays
I accept Self-pay, Moda, and IHN
*Has Limited Availability; Waitlist is OPEN*
People often come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns they understand but aren't quite sure how to change. I primarily work with young adults navigating trauma, anxiety, identity, relationships, life transitions, and difficulty managing intense emotions. I also enjoy working with LGBTQ+ clients who are exploring identity and relationships, as well as navigating many of the challenges described above.
My approach is primarily emotion-focused and person-centered, with trauma-focused CBT integrated when helpful. Instead of focusing only on coping with symptoms, I believe therapy can help us understand where emotional patterns, beliefs, and reactions come from and how they continue to affect your life and relationships.
As a trans man, I understand the value of having a therapeutic space where identity does not need to be explained or justified. My goal is to provide a space that feels collaborative and accepting whether you are coming to therapy to process trauma, better understand yourself, navigate relationships, or feel more comfortable with who you are.
I completed my M.S. in Counseling and Develop from Texas Women's University. I am under the supervision of Amanda Whelen. We meet for 2-4 hours of supervision each month.
Amanda Whelen, M.S., LPC, CADCI
she/her
Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda@coastal-center.com
OR License #C5769
Clinical Supervisor
CCCH employee since 2026
At the Corvallis office/online Tuesdays & Thursdays
Online only Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
I accept Self-pay, Medicare, Moda, IHN, Samaritan Choice, Providence, PacificSource Commercial, and BCBS
*Has Limited Availability; Waitlist is OPEN*
I am an experienced therapist that is dedicated to providing exceptional care for clients who are experiencing a variety of mental health disorders. My therapeutic approach utilizes a strengths a person-centered, humanistic approach to therapy with elements of existentialism, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and brief solution focused therapy to build the foundation of skills needed to engage in growth and empowerment. I provide therapy services for adult individual clients as well as clinical supervision for associate therapists seeking licensure as professional counselors.
I completed my M.A. in professional Mental Health Counseling with an addictions specialization at Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling and am a registered supervisor candidate with the Oregon Board of Licensed and Professional Therapists.
Coastal Center Admin Team
Kira Cuthbert, B.A.
she/her
Office Manager
team@coastal-center.com
CCCH employee since 2022
As the office manager, I make sure that we offer the best service possible by answering phone calls and questions about how to become a new client, what type of insurance we can take, payment, and other general questions about our practice. I keep office operations running smoothly. In my time away from the office, I enjoy spending time with my cat and getting outside in nature.
*I also can communicate in Spanish*
Samantha Szynskie, B.A.
she/her
Front Desk Receptionist
team@coastal-center.com
CCCH employee since 2025
As a front desk receptionist, my job is to greet you with a warm smile and make sure you feel safe and comfortable while visiting our office. I check in clients for appointments, answer the phone, and respond to emails. Please say hello when you come in for your appointment!
*I also can communicate in Spanish*
McKenzie Kendall, B.S.
she/her
Front Desk Receptionist
team@coastal-center.com
CCCH employee since 2025
As a front desk receptionist, you will see me at the front desk greeting clients with a warm and welcoming smile. My job is to check in clients for their appointments, answer any questions they may have, and respond to emails and phone calls. Please say hello when you come in for your appointment! In my spare time, I love reading and doing various art projects.
Coastal Center for Collaborative Health is proud to have our COA through OHA, demonstrating our commitment to clinical excellence. We welcome associate therapists seeking a supportive, collaborative environment with high-quality clinical supervision as they work toward licensure.
We are currently accepting resumes for potential new associate clinicians and licensed therapists to join our team.
Please send your resume to julie@coastal-center.com