Therapist Affiliations
Mikala Pickens, LPC
Hi, I’m Mikala, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, Alabama. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a teacher, case manager, and college counselor. Those experiences shaped the way I show up today: curious, compassionate, and committed to meeting you exactly where you are. For your convenience I offer both in office and virtual sessions. Virtual sessions are available throughout the state of Alabama. I support preteens/teens ages 12 and above, young adults, and/or adults navigating anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship concerns, depression, grief, burnout, or major life transitions. My hope is that your therapeutic experience with me feels grounding, supportive, and empowering. Additionally, I’m a Gottman-trained therapist and Prepare‑Enrich facilitator who enjoys helping couples strengthen communication, connection, and understanding. Faith‑based integration is available if you prefer it. Another area of specialty for me is neurodivergence. As a neurodivergent therapist, I care deeply about supporting neurodivergent clients. Whether you’re navigating ADHD, Autism, masking, burnout, or relationship dynamics shaped by neurodiversity, I'm passionate about helping you progress in a way that feels authentic to you in daily living. We also now offer the RUBI Parent Training Program. RUBI is an evidence‑based, practical, and family‑centered program for caregivers of children ages 3–14 with autism or developmental differences. RUBI teaches everyday behavior strategies, helps with the reduction of challenging behaviors, strengthens routines, and includes optional sessions on token economies, feeding challenges, sleep, toilet training, and more. I welcome questions in relation to the RUBI protocol. In summation, your therapeutic experience with me will encompass warmth, compassion, and an environment free from judgment. Every part of you is welcome here. Reach out today.
My name is Christina Ayers‑Klose. I’m a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), Associate Licensed Counselor (ALC), and Certified Clinical Supervisor Intern (CCS‑I). I provide counseling services in Alabama under the supervision of Courtney Benjamin, LPC-S, PMH-C. I also offer services throughout the state of North Carolina. Supporting mental health is at the heart of what I do. In our work together, I strive to help you understand your experiences, build emotional resilience, and move toward a life that feels more grounded and manageable. I’m dedicated to creating a compassionate and nonjudgmental, yet focused space for healing, growth, and meaningful change. My work centers on supporting individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging experiences, including trauma, addiction, transitions, and the impact of overwhelming emotions. I believe deeply in people’s capacity to heal, and I approach each person with respect, curiosity, and a genuine commitment to understanding your story. I have experience working with veterans, aiding in the navigation of the emotional and relational effects of military service, transition, and trauma. I also support families involved in the foster care system, offering guidance through the uncertainty, grief, and resilience that often accompany these experiences. My work with women includes addressing identity shifts, life transitions, relationship patterns, and the unique pressures that shape women’s mental health. I also provide care for individuals navigating eating disorders, borderline personality traits, and addiction, using trauma-informed, evidence-based approaches to support greater stability, strengthen emotional regulation, and reconnect with a sense of self-worth. My goal is to help you understand your experiences with clarity and compassion while developing tools that support long term wellness. My approach is relational and collaborative, centering your autonomy, your story, and your capacity for growth. I draw from cognitive‑behavioral strategies, somatic grounding, motivational interviewing, emotional regulation skills, and values‑based work, always tailoring the process to your needs and pacing. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your family, beginning therapy for the first time, or returning with new goals, I strive to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to make changes that align with your values.
Chania Mitchell, ALC
Hi, I’m Chania. I’m an Associate Licensed Counselor in Alabama, and I work with teens and adults who are carrying more than they often say out loud. If you’re navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, grief, recovery, or a major life transition, I offer a space where you can slow down, breathe, and sort through what’s happening at a pace that feels right for you. I also have specialized training in perinatal and postpartum mental health and support mothers, birthing people, partners, and families through pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, and loss.
My approach is grounded, relational, and deeply human. I don’t expect you to show up pretending everything is fine. I believe healing happens when you feel seen, understood, and supported without pressure to rush or perform. We pay attention to what’s happening in your mind and body and make space for the parts of you that have been working so hard. As a mother, a trained End‑of‑Life Doula, and a mental health counselor, I bring warmth, steadiness, and real‑life humanity into the room. And because joy matters too, I’m a lover of deep laughter, a good burger, and anime - the small things that remind us we’re allowed to be whole people, not just our pain.
I’ve spent nearly a decade supporting people in settings ranging from correctional facilities to community programs. I’ve worked with survivors, people in recovery, and individuals navigating trauma, identity shifts, and complex life transitions. Those experiences taught me to lead with humility, curiosity, and deep respect for the strength people carry, even when they don’t feel strong. If you’re looking for a space to sort through what’s happening in your life with someone who will meet you with honesty, steadiness, and care, I’m currently accepting new clients for telehealth sessions. I accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, AllKids, and Ulliance EAP through Benjamin Counseling and Consulting and I also offer self‑pay options through my private practice, Seasons Therapy Center.