Meet The Team

Professional support for you & your relationship

Finding the right counselor for your relationship is a big deal.

When you make the decision to seek help for your most important relationship, partner with a professional experienced helping couples work through even the toughest circumstances imaginable.

Our team of counselors and coaches specialize in helping you achieve the goals and dreams you have for your relationship.

You can expect us to:

Support your marriage. All too often, couples call it quits way too early and for very little reason other than they feel dissatisfied and lose hope of ever feeling differently. We believe most marriages can be saved if you are willing to put in the work. We can show you how.

Speak the truth. We are compassionate and direct. We are willing to have tough conversations and tell you what you need to hear – even if it may not be what you want to hear – because we want more than anything for you to be successful in your relationship.

Provide a comprehensive approach. Couples therapy will sometimes uncover previously unaddressed individual work to be done to support your goals as a couple. We have therapists on staff who specialize in trauma, impulsive sexual behavior, and other individual therapy specialities to support you in this work.

Find Your FIT

Flexible Options to Meet Your Experience, Scheduling and Financial Needs

Two Convenient Locations in DFW (Richardson & Frisco)
In-person and/or Virtual Sessions
Evening & Weekend Sessions Available
Sliding Scale Options with Masters Interns
Therapists trained in Trauma, Impulsive Sexual Behavior, and Sex Therapy

Our Counselors

KIM BOWEN, LPC-S

Owner/Founder

SAM JOHN, LPC-S, CSAT

Clinical Director

JAMIE BLACKBURN, LPC

Counselor

LAURA BURR, LMFT, LPC-ASSOCIATE

Counselor

ELSA DAVIS, LMFT, LPC

Counselor

LAUREN GUENTHER, LPC

Counselor

BETTY MATZ-GELSKY, LMHC, LPC

Counselor

KERI HATCHER, LPC

Counselor

IKE PATRICK, LPC, CSAT

Counselor

MICHELLE SPENCE, LPC

Counselor

Susan Rice, LPC-ASSOCIATE

Counselor

Cindy Wright, LPC-ASSOCIATE

Counselor

Marilee Woodfield, MASTERS INTERN

Counselor

JUSTIN METZ, MASTERS INTERN

Counselor

ANDREW MITCHELL, MASTERS INTERN

Counselor

MOLLY

Therapy Dog

Our Coaches

Specializing in Rescue for One and Online Couples Coaching for Out-of-State Clients.

AMANDA RICHARDSON

Director of Coaching

LYUBOV ABRAMS

Relationship Coach

Ariana James

Relationship Coach

READY TO SCHEDULE?
HAVE QUESTIONS?

You are one click away from getting started.
Our coordinator can answer your questions & help you schedule your first counseling or coaching session when you are ready.

SCHEDULE FREE DISCOVERY CALL

Ready now? Call us.

Sam John

LPC, CSAT

Sam has a passion for marriage. He knows how it feels when one or both individuals want to walk away from a relationship because it seems hopeless. His passion is fueled from his personal struggles in the early years of his own marriage. When asked why he fights for marriages he stated “I understand the pain and disappointments that come when a couple’s expectations of their marriage aren’t being met. I also know, firsthand, how things can change for the better if you are willing to look at yourself in the mirror, own up to your own part in the marriage, and be willing to love your spouse and the marriage in a different way.”

Sam’s insight and passion motivated him to pursue his career in counseling. Whether you’re struggling to communicate your heart to your mate, considering divorce, constantly fighting and engaging in verbal warfare, falling out of love or just needing some guidance to make a good relationship a better one, Sam wants to be your advocate and guide for change. The possibilities for your relationship are endless if you decide to try something different. Are you ready to stop doing what is not working and find a way to transform your current situation to a new place of love, understanding and hope? Then Sam is your guy!

"My wife and I absolutely love Sam. He has done wonders for us as a couple and for me individually. He's a fantastic communicator, a gifted counselor, and a comforting presence to talk to and in front of. I cannot say enough good things about the work he has done with my wife and me." - R.B

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Jamie Blackburn

LPC

Licensed since 2006, Jamie has a broad therapy background working with both individuals and couples with additional emphasis on depression, anxiety, and trauma-related therapy. She is particularly passionate about working with women and mothers who are trying to prioritize their mental and emotional health while balancing families and careers. Jamie is trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy which helps clients rapidly move beyond trauma. Jamie's heart is to meet her clients where they are and journey with them as they find inner healing and freedom. For clients who desire faith-based counseling, Jamie is also trained in Heart Sync Ministry which helps clients heal dividedness so they can enjoy more whole-hearted living and loving. Regardless of where you are starting from, Jamie believes there is more for you and is honored to help you go after it! Jamie and her husband, Jay, have 4 children and live a very full life, running from one sporting event to the next and engaging in their community. Free time is scarce but in her spare moments you are likely to find her tucked away with a book or spending time with the people she loves.

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Laura Burr

LMFT, LPC-ASSOCIATE

SUPERVISED BY (LPC): SAM JOHN, LPC-S

Laura knows marriage not only provides the framework for growth and some of life’s greatest joys, but it can also be the source of incredible pain and hurt. She has a heart for those struggling in their marriage and strives to help clients look beneath the surface, to address not only the presenting issues, but also the root causes including trauma, family of origin experiences, expectations, habits, and addictions.

Laura has spent the last 20 years mentoring couples healing from infidelity. She has a heart not only for marriage, but also women’s issues including the impact of pornography use, emotional or narcissistic abuse, and infidelity.

A former high school teacher, Laura enjoys working with couples parenting special needs/high needs children. She also works well with young adults facing challenges such as life changes, anxiety, low self-esteem, past abuse, and relationship issues.

Laura holds a M.A in Marriage and Family Counseling from Houston Baptist University and is a partner peer facilitator for Christian Sex Addiction Specialists International (C-SASI). Laura has four “mostly grown” children, including two internationally adopted. She loves watching movies, spending time with her family, hiking, traveling, and being at the beach.

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Elsa Davis

LMFT, LPC

Elsa is dually licensed as both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor. She is passionate about working with couples and advocating for marriage. Elsa enjoys working with couples in all stages of their relationship - from dating to the golden years, from the introduction of children to an empty nest. She is also motivated to help couples navigate difficult life events such as emotional disengagement and relationship traumas including infidelity or mental health disorders.

Elsa graduated with honors in her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy program and is now approaching nearly a decade in practice. She has been extensively trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), one modality designed to help couples heal from past or current distress. Elsa and her husband have been married for 12 years and have 4 children. She has learned not only through her training, but also through her own marriage, how both difficult and rewarding marriage can be, as they too have successfully weathered their fair share of marital ups and downs. Elsa is bilingual and offers therapy both in English and Spanish.

“Elsa has been absolutely fantastic to work with. My husband and I are happier and more connected than we ever have been. She has been a true blessing to both of us. We highly recommend her to anyone looking to refresh their marriage.”- KR

So glad I found this place! Elsa is the best!

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LAUREN GUENTHER

LPC

Lauren has a passion for helping couples as they navigate the hard parts of marriage. As the product of a broken family herself, she understands the pain and confusion divorce causes for each member of the family. As a result of her own parents’ split, she knew from a very early age that she would become an advocate for couples struggling in their relationships. Her goal is to help clients understand their own family of origin patterns and how early childhood experiences shape and influence how we show up with our partners. She also enjoys working with betrayed partners who are navigating the ups and downs of living with someone struggling with sexual addiction. She and her husband have been married for 11 years. They have two kids, two dogs and a cat. In her down time, she loves being with her family and spending time outdoors.

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Betty Matz Gelsky

LMHC, LPC

A Florida native, Betty has over 30 years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in relationships and intimacy. She uses Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT) to help couples transform their challenges into opportunities for healing and growth. Betty believes great relationships are consciously designed and she is passionate about working with couples in all stages of life who are motivated and oriented towards both personal and relational growth. Betty has extensive experience helping couples address the unique challenges of marriage, remarriage, blending families and empty nesting.

As the oldest of four, Betty was fortunate to have witnessed the 55 years of love her parents nurtured. Her first marriage blessed her with four adored children and in 2016, she married her soulmate. They now have a beautiful blended family of nine adult children and a golden retriever! They humbly walk the talk and practice what they preach by making it a daily practice to nourish their love and create safety for their relationship and those with their family. Betty is bilingual and offers therapy services in both Spanish and English.

Betty has been a bright beacon of hope in our marriage. After lackluster therapists, we were referred by psychologist friend to Marriage Place. We were matched with Betty and could not believe the juxtaposition in therapy interventions with someone that has actual marriage specialty training! She has a keen ability to engage both individuals while being tender yet direct. She is pragmatic because ultimately she genuinely cares about the health of our relationship- and that has made all the difference.

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Keri Hatcher

LPC

Keri has a deep empathy for the challenges faced by couples in distress and a passion for helping people get to a happier and healthier place in their lives. With the professional experience and personal insight gained from her own previous marriage, Keri brings a compassionate and understanding approach to her practice, with an intimate understanding of both the emotional upheaval and the potential for growth that can arise from our challenges.

Keri focuses on helping couples foster healthy connections by gaining a deeper understanding of themselves and their partners. She encourages empathy, vulnerability, and mutual respect as she guides clients through the challenges of rebuilding trust, renewing appreciation for one another, redistributing responsibilities, and finding healthy ways to manage emotions and disagreements.

Keri's specialty areas of interest include co-parenting, blending families, healing after infidelity and neurodivergence (ADHD, autism). The mom of two teenagers, Keri's first career was in teaching. She holds a master's degree in Family, Marriage, & Couples Counseling from Lamar University and is a certified Animal Assisted Intervention Specialist (AAI-S). Her coworker is a goldendoodle named Molly.

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Ike Patrick

LPC, CSAT

After years of working for Fortune 500 companies, Ike pursued a career in counseling to help others overcome real-life challenges he personally had faced himself. Ike has a passion for partnering with those who are struggling with issues such as addiction, trauma, and unwanted feelings, and helping them to become the people they were really meant to be. He also enjoys working with the partners and family members to assist them in restoring balance to their relationships and families.

In a non-judgemental way, Ike combines his compassionate, empathetic nature with his academic training and life experience to come alongside his clients. His person-centered counseling style utilizes evidence-based therapies to assist clients in finding solutions to their complicated problems. Ike is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), as well as trained in EMDR, a top modality for trauma therapy.

Ike and his wife have been married for more than 30 years and have an adult daughter. In his spare time he plays guitar, works out, and studies languages - currently French and Spanish.

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Michelle Spence

LPC

An elective psychology class in high school is what initially fueled Michelle's interest in counseling and eventually led her to pursue her chosen field as a therapist. Growing up in a chaotic home, Michelle learned firsthand how our early experiences impact us as adults and in our relationships. She’s also experienced the freedom that comes from tackling the past and recognizes how integral counseling was to her own personal journey of healing and self-awareness. Michelle has a passion for working with couples who want to build, or rebuild, their marriage and with individuals who are ready to experience personal freedom from the pain of their past. Additionally, Michelle is trained as an EMDR therapist, a technique that helps clients heal from symptoms and emotional distress caused by memories of painful events. Michelle has been married for almost 3 decades and is mom to 3 adult children. In her free time, she enjoys Broadway, gardening, baking, and reading.

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Susan Rice

LPC-ASSOCIATE
SUPERVISED BY KIM BOWEN, LPC-S

Susan believes in the sanctity of marriage which, for her, means treating your spouse and relationship with the utmost respect and having the willingness to work both individually, and as a team, to keep your marriage on track. She recognizes the vital importance of focusing on your own role in the relationship, understanding it is the only thing actually within your control. Lovingly given the nickname of 'Emotional Ninja' by clients, Susan is passionate about building relationships with her clients and in turn, helping her clients foster, rebuild and restore relationships with their loved ones.

With The Marriage Place since 2019, Susan is a warm and empathetic listener who brings to her clients more than 25 years of diverse experience working with both families and children. Susan has been married to her husband and best friend for more than two decades and they are the parents of two teen-aged children. She's served on the Board of Directors of Hope International since 2005.

"Many thanks to Susan. She and this program have been a life saver for us!" - J.B

"Susan will be so good at just helping us figure it out, understand. 'Emotional Ninja' - that's what we call her!" - K.P

It was absolutely amazing! I feel so much hope for the first time in a long time. Sooo happy to find Susan & The Marriage Place!

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Cindy Wright

LPC-Associate

Supervised by Sam John, LPC-S

After spending the first half of her career as a CPA, Cindy found her true calling as a therapist specializing in relationships. Cindy's work is anchored in her mission to help each of her clients enjoy life as the best version of themselves, and to find fulfillment in their most precious relationships. She knows personally how past trauma and dysfunction can create self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that interfere with a couple's ability to navigate through life's toughest challenges. She also knows how the right therapist can help a couple gain confidence, restore their relationship and develop the skills that lead to a healthy marriage and long-term growth. Cindy and her husband of 37 years have 3 married children, 3 grandchildren, and one tiny dog.

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Marilee Woodfield

Masters Level Intern

Marilee is passionate about the marriage relationship and knows how critical it is to individual and family well-being. But relationships can be hard, even with the people you love, and it is painful to have your fairytale edited by unexpected circumstances. Marilee recognizes the pain that comes from when our reality doesn't meet our expectations, and thrives at helping clients see new possibilities for their relationship.

Marilee has a Masters of Science in Family Studies and is an adjunct professor in the Educational Psychology department at the University of North Texas. Her favorite course to teach focuses on relationships and marriage, and how they thrive when they are based on a foundation of trust, commitment, good communication, repair skills, and grace. It is this course which inspired her to pursue a second master's degree - this one in Marriage & Family Therapy - which she expects to complete in May 2025.

Married for 36 years, Marilee has four 'grown and flown' kids and 5 grandchildren whom she adores. When she’s not at work she enjoys pickleball, paddleboarding, travel and spending time with friends and family.

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Justin Metz

Masters Level Intern

As the oldest of seven children, Justin grew up with a deep appreciation for family and the complexity of relationships. With over 15 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate relational challenges, he brings both wisdom and warmth to his work as a counselor.

Before pursuing counseling professionally, Justin taught ballroom dance for many years—a passion that not only led him to meet his wife, Nikki, but also shaped his desire to help couples connect more deeply. Today, he works with clients to improve communication, rebuild trust, and restore emotional and physical intimacy.

Justin believes that relationships, even the most strained, can be repaired when individuals are willing to approach the hurt with humility, honesty, and grace. He encourages clients to engage with curiosity and compassion as they do the hard but rewarding work of healing. His counseling interests include Attachment Theory, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Story Work, and relational intimacy. Outside the counseling room, Justin enjoys cooking, woodworking, reading, practicing calligraphy, and spending time with his wife and daughter.

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Andrew Mitchell

Masters Level Intern

Andrew understands marriage can be both incredibly fulfilling and incredibly challenging. Whether it’s poor communication, broken trust, or emotional disconnection, with intentional effort, honest reflection, and the right guidance, Andrew believes couples can repair and rebuild connection by addressing the underlying issues creating the pain and distance. His approach is rooted in empathy, practical tools, and a genuine belief that change is possible.

Andrew also has a heart for men’s issues, including the impact of pornography use and infidelity. He recognizes the unique struggles that men face in relationships and works to provide a safe space where they can take meaningful steps toward growth and healing.

Andrew is nearing completion of his Master’s in Counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary. You could say counseling runs in the family, as Andrew’s wife, Charisse, is also a counselor. In his spare time, Andrew enjoys chess, online strategy games, and working out.

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Molly

Certified Psychiatric Support Animal

Molly is a 9 month old Goldendoodle. She is a Certified Psychiatric Support Animal in training to become a certified therapy dog. She is the trusted partner of our very own, Keri Hatcher. Just as each of us does, Molly has her own story to tell. She was born in a breeding facility that was raided by local law-enforcement. All of the puppies, including Molly, were rehomed. Molly initially went to the home of one of the law-enforcement officers who participated in the raid, but due to separation anxiety, struggled when her new human had to work and she was left alone. Now, she’s found her permanent home and job. She is still a puppy, but has worked hard on her manners, and her personality and temperament make her a good fit as a therapy dog. She loves coming to work with Keri and interacting with new and familiar faces. It supports her desire for human connection and interaction and in turn, she provides comfort and support for our clients. In fact, studies have shown that including a therapy dog in sessions can help clients reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, increase engagement and assist with emotion recognition and regulation.

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Amanda Richardson

DIRECTOR OF COACHING, CERTIFIED RELATIONSHIP COACH

Amanda is a self-proclaimed Enneagram enthusiast, embracing her Type 2 personality to compassionately guide others along their own personal journey of growth and self-reflection. She specializes in helping clients repair and rescue their relationship, and is particularly passionate about working with clients whose spouses want out. Amanda and her husband have been married for more than a decade, during which time they have grown through and explored the entire "Marriage Map". They are also the proud parents of two wild and wonderful boys. Amanda is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University and a Certified Relationship Coach. In her free time Amanda loves being outside, reading and spending time with her family.

“I highly recommend Amanda for relationship coaching! She's positive and insightful and has amazing tools to practically help your relationship right away. - A.H.

I highly recommend Amanda for relationship coaching! She's positive and insightful and has amazing tools to practically help your relationship right away. I have seen multiple therapists and Amanda has been by far the best coach. My journey over the last 14 months has been a struggle but I have been so fortunate to have her help me through this and guide me to be the best person i can possibly be ...I have grown so much and I owe it all to her!

I saw Amanda Richardson at The Marriage Place, and she was PHENOMENAL! Right away, I felt very comfortable with her. She is a VERY caring counselor/coach, and it shows. - J.C.

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Lyubov Abrams

Certified Relationship Coach

Lyubov finds much joy in helping clients realize their relationship potential, especially after having gone through a tough time. Like many of us, Lyubov and her husband have weathered their own share of ups and downs in their 14 years of marriage. With the pressures of work, children, families, and other life demands, it's easy for us all to find our relationship on the proverbial 'back burner' without intentionality and the right relational skills. Lybov's mission is to help clients get back on track and revive their marriages by teaching sometimes simple strategies that have long lasting effects.

Lyubov holds a degree in Psychology from Georgia State University and has completed advanced training in relationship coaching from the Center of Thriving Relationships. She also holds special certification in neurodiverse/neurodivergent (ADHD, autism) relationships. Lyubov shares her life with her husband, 3 kids, and a dog. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, volunteering, and writing.

"So far, Lyubov and The Marriage Place have been a true blessing to me. It’s the exact help, guidance, and direction I was seeking and I’m so glad I found you all in this world with so many subpar options."

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Ariana James

Certified Relationship Coach

Ariana is an extrovert by all definitions. She loves meeting new people and helping them to feel at ease. Ariana spent the first part of her career in education where she taught and worked as a school counselor. After a few years as a stay-at-home mom, Ariana followed her passion by joining The Marriage Place where she helps her clients succeed in life and in their most important relationships.

Ariana knows the hard work it takes to make a marriage successful and recognizes the vulnerability and bravery it takes to ask for help. Great relationships require introspective self-work and Ariana guides her clients in a direct but compassionate way.

Ariana and her husband Sean have been married for 16 years. They have two boys and spend most of their waking time watching them play baseball.

I am SO grateful to have walked this path with Ariana next to me. Ariana is everything I could have wanted in this challenging time. She is insightful, empathetic, warm, funny, understanding, and resourceful. She has been so supportive of me in the past few months. She was always reachable and ready to listen and guide.

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Meet The Team

Professional support for you & your relationship

Finding the right counselor for your relationship is a big deal.

Find Your FIT

Flexible Options to Meet Your Experience, Scheduling and Financial Needs

Our Counselors

KIM BOWEN, LPC-S

SAM JOHN, LPC-S, CSAT

JAMIE BLACKBURN, LPC

LAURA BURR, LMFT, LPC-ASSOCIATE

ELSA DAVIS, LMFT, LPC

LAUREN GUENTHER, LPC

BETTY MATZ-GELSKY, LMHC, LPC

KERI HATCHER, LPC

IKE PATRICK, LPC, CSAT

MICHELLE SPENCE, LPC

Susan Rice, LPC-ASSOCIATE

Cindy Wright, LPC-ASSOCIATE

Marilee Woodfield, MASTERS INTERN

JUSTIN METZ, MASTERS INTERN

ANDREW MITCHELL, MASTERS INTERN

MOLLY

Our Coaches

Specializing in Rescue for One and Online Couples Coaching for Out-of-State Clients.

AMANDA RICHARDSON

LYUBOV ABRAMS

Ariana James

READY TO SCHEDULE?HAVE QUESTIONS?

You are one click away from getting started.Our coordinator can answer your questions & help you schedule your first counseling or coaching session when you are ready.

Sam John

LPC, CSAT

Jamie Blackburn

LPC

Laura Burr

LMFT, LPC-ASSOCIATE

SUPERVISED BY (LPC): SAM JOHN, LPC-S

Elsa Davis

LMFT, LPC

LAUREN GUENTHER

LPC

Betty Matz Gelsky

LMHC, LPC

Keri Hatcher

LPC

Ike Patrick

LPC, CSAT

Michelle Spence

LPC

Susan Rice

LPC-ASSOCIATESUPERVISED BY KIM BOWEN, LPC-S

Cindy Wright

LPC-Associate

Supervised by Sam John, LPC-S

Marilee Woodfield

Masters Level Intern

Justin Metz

Masters Level Intern

Andrew Mitchell

Masters Level Intern

Molly

Certified Psychiatric Support Animal

Amanda Richardson

DIRECTOR OF COACHING, CERTIFIED RELATIONSHIP COACH

Lyubov Abrams

Certified Relationship Coach

Ariana James

Certified Relationship Coach

READY TO SCHEDULE?
HAVE QUESTIONS?

You are one click away from getting started.
Our coordinator can answer your questions & help you schedule your first counseling or coaching session when you are ready.

LPC-ASSOCIATE
SUPERVISED BY KIM BOWEN, LPC-S