Karlee Davis, MSW, LICSW
Owner, Begin Counseling
EMDR Certified Therapist
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in WV
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and EMDR Certified Therapist in West Virginia. I received my Master of Social Work degree from West Virginia University. I spent much of my career working with individuals having trouble in life due to various aspects of trauma, such as recent traumatic events, chronic traumatic stress, or abuse.
I founded Begin Counseling in 2023 as the need for culturally competent professional support for first responders became increasingly apparent to me. I have worked in private practice counseling since 2007, which led to my specific interest, research, and advanced training in working with first responders. I believe these individuals are often underappreciated and misunderstood within our society. The experience and knowledge I acquire from knowing and working with those of you in law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, emergency communications, and the military is the driving force for increasing access to genuine help for those who would otherwise never seek professional counseling.
Counseling is tailored to your unique needs. For those desiring a Christian perspective, biblical principles and beliefs can be incorporated and prioritized in therapy. The therapeutic relationship is a key component of the counseling process, and you will be provided with a comfortable presence to facilitate your goals.
With every new client I meet, I am humbled by the opportunity to learn your story and bear witness to your deepest hurts and greatest victories. I recognize that deciding to start therapy can sometimes be uncomfortable; you will receive a welcoming, confidential counseling experience at Begin. I am committed to establishing and growing a practice that our community can trust to provide competent trauma treatment and where the quality of life can be improved for public safety professionals, their families, and anyone seeking help from us.
Amanda Profilio, MSW, LICSW
Therapist, Begin Counseling
EMDR Trained Therapist
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in WV and VA
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, offering telehealth appointments for residents in West Virginia and Virginia. I strive to create a safe and welcoming space where you can share your story without feeling judged.
I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Shepherd University and my Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland. My experience includes working with teens, adults, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, family changes, life transitions, stress, and trauma. I have experience working in foster care, schools, inpatient care, and private practice. My clinical background has provided me with a well-rounded framework to address various concerns you may face. I am skilled in helping families navigate divorce and successful co-parenting. I enjoy supporting first responders and family members in the difficulties you encounter at work and how that may impact life at home. I will help you on your journey, offering kind guidance, compassion, empathy, and experience.
I am trained in EMDR and specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), both of which are evidence-based approaches shown to be effective in addressing trauma. I also incorporate treatment methods from other theories, tailoring the approach to your needs. I want you to know you are welcome here, imperfections and all. I feel honored and privileged to be a therapist. I look forward to working with you.
Amanda Witmer, MSW, LICSW
Therapist, Begin Counseling
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in WV and MD
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in West Virginia and Maryland. I received my Master of Social Work degree from West Virginia University. My professional background includes working with clients coping with grief, loss, chronic illness, life transition, abuse, and trauma. I utilize an integrative, strengths-based approach to therapy that includes various interventions tailored to your individual needs.
I spent a significant portion of my career working as a grief specialist, supporting those who have been given life-altering medical diagnoses as well as those who have experienced the death of a loved one. I have a special interest in supporting you as you grieve all types of loss, including divorce, estrangement, empty nest, job loss, identity crisis, and other significant life changes. I also have extensive experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, giving me a broad range of expertise to assist you. Since joining Begin Counseling, I have enjoyed the additional opportunity to support emergency/shift workers and those in relationships with first responders to address the unique challenges you and your family face while serving others.
I am mindful of the stereotypes and stigmas often associated with therapy and am intentional about increasing your comfort and confidence in the process through building a strong therapeutic alliance. Therapy doesn’t have to be a strange, uncomfortable experience. It’s important to me that you trust that you are in a safe, welcoming place where your voice is always heard.
Karen R. Kays, LICSW
Therapist, Begin Counseling
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in WV and MD
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in West Virginia and Maryland. I specialize in trauma, grief, wellness, and faith-based perspectives, and I am here to help you find hope and create change through a strengths-based, solution-oriented approach.
Sometimes, we can feel stuck in life, held back by negative thoughts or worries, or life takes us by surprise and leaves us reeling with confusion. If this resonates with you, breathe deeply and know you are not alone. There are answers to those questions in your mind, and I can help you find them. I enjoy working with individuals with varying backgrounds and life experiences. I have a heart for people who help others, so if you are an emergency responder, I will guide you as you strengthen your resiliency and navigate the inevitable trauma and challenges in your career.
I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry and Wildlife, as well as a Master of Education and Master of Social Work degree. My professional life has had its own twists and turns, and I have learned that despite life’s curveballs, nothing gained is wasted. My training in forestry has taught me, among other things, the importance of time in nature to refresh the soul, and as an educator, I gained an understanding of the mind and the learning process. I believe that we humans are an integrated, three-part system: body, mind, and spirit, and true wellness is only achieved when all three are functioning well. So, join me, and let me help you get back to your best self or find it for the first time. I am ready to listen!
Valerie Gorman
Therapist, Begin Counseling
Provisionally Licensed Counselor in WV
I am currently a Provisionally Licensed Counselor to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia. I earned my Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from West Virginia University. I spent many years working in acute mental health and addiction within the hospital setting, including crisis intervention. I am trained and experienced in providing Critical Incident debriefings to first responders after high-stress events.
My goal is to help you achieve peace and balance in your life. Each person is unique in their own way, so your treatment should be as well. I will walk through the process of therapy with you so you can realize you are normal, although your experiences may not be. You have the ability within you to overcome the difficulties that have been thrown at you through the help of new skills and tools.
As the wife of a first responder, I understand the career impact on the individual, their spouse, and their family members. Professional support for the spouse and family is important. Being part of the first responder family is unique and often difficult to navigate. Spouses may feel alone in this dynamic, but through support and understanding, you can confidently handle what the job entails. First responders and their families need compassion in navigating the good and the not so good, and the tools to figure out how to make it work. It is my hope through this work, the lives of first responders and their families can be enriched.