Meet Our Team
Experts in Mental Health
From anxiety to work-life balance, our skilled team is here to guide them toward better health and productivity. Discover who our professionals are and how they collaborate with clients for enhanced well-being. Our counselors see patients virtually and in person at our locations in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. If you're already a member and want to schedule an appointment with our counselors, give us a call at (800) 969-6162 or submit a request form.
Kevin Baker, MA, LLPC, Psychotherapist
Get to Know Kevin:
Kevin is a Psychotherapist at HelpNet and has special interests in emotional, behavioral, mental health and substance use disorders. He works with couples or individuals to create healthy boundaries and enhance communication skills. Kevin handles substance use issues by also assessing for co-occurring mental health, behavioral health, and emotional-personality disorders. Kevin enjoys being able to help people when they need it most at no cost to the client. When Kevin is not at work you can catch him with his family, traveling or in his many gardens.
Special Interests
- Special Interests
- Anxiety
- Behavioral issues
- Depression
- Relationship issues
- Substance abuse
Education
- Master of Arts in Counseling, Spring Arbor University, Spring Arbor, Mich.
- Bachelor of Arts in Management and Organizational Development, Spring Arbor University, Spring Arbor, Mich.
Brandy Currie, LMSW, Psychotherapist and Behavioral Health Trainer
Get to Know Brandy:
"I am passionate about helping my clients through their challenges and personal traumas. As a combat Army veteran, I bring a unique perspective on what can be achieved when you have an army of support behind you."
Brandy enjoys working as a team to create a safe space for those needing help. Her special interests in mental health include sand tray therapy, healthy boundaries, anxiety, depression, sexual assault trauma, work-life balance and the trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy model. Before joining the Bronson HelpNet team, she worked for Bronson Sexual Assault Services.
When Brandy is not volunteering with Veterans Treatment Court or on-call as an advocate at Sexual Assault Services of Calhoun County, she is spending time with her husband and six children. Brandy enjoys lots of travel, good food and being involved in her spiritual community.
Special interests
- Anxiety/Depression
- Adolescent/Teen Issues
- Childhood Trauma
- Military Adjustment Issues
- Sexual Abuse
- Spiritual Issues
- Trauma
- Work/Life Balance and Boundaries
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, University of Maryland, College Park, Md.
- Master of Science in Clinical Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Fla.
Jill Green, MA, LLP, Psychotherapist
Get to Know Jill:
“Life can be stressful, and we often feel alone in these moments. Everyone has a unique story, and I am honored to collaborate with clients to promote their empowerment and transformation.”
Jill has been a Limited Licensed Psychologist for over 20 years, working with adults, adolescents and couples. She received her master’s degree in counseling psychology from Western Michigan University in 1998. Jill is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and has Level I training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She uses an integrative approach including mindfulness, CBT, ACT, DBT and spirituality to tailor treatment for each unique client. As a Psychotherapist at HelpNet, Jill is proud that EAP offers counseling to people who would never have tried therapy without this employer benefit. When not working, Jill enjoys spending time with family and friends, and trying new recipes.
Special Interests
- Anxiety
- Depression
- First responder stress
- Grief
- Life transitions
- Personality disorders
- Relationship issues
- Sexual abuse
- Trauma
- Women’s issues
Education
- Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Mich.
- Bachelor of Arts in History, Minors in Spanish and Sociology, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Mich.
- Bachelor of Arts in French, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Mich.
Additional Certifications
- Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
- Level I, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Taylor Kilbourn, MA, LLC, Case Manager
Get to Know Taylor:
"I want to create a safe, collaborative and supportive space for those who need or want it, especially for those who may not receive that otherwise. My hope is to enhance and encourage growth and balance within our clients, helping them feel supported and able to cope with current stressors."
As the case manager for Bronson HelpNet, Taylor is the main point of contact for clients in crisis and employers who need guidance related to employee concerns. Much of her day is filled with intaking call information and providing in-the-moment support for clients in crisis. She also manages many aspects of HelpNet's management referral program and connects clients and companies to local resources.
What Taylor loves most about her job is that every day is different, bringing new challenges and opportunities to learn. She values the welcoming environment that Bronson HelpNet creates and is proud of the different resources the team provides for clients and companies. She is honored to be a part of a team that works tirelessly to reduce the stigma around mental health.
Outside of the office, Taylor enjoys traveling, reading, going to concerts, playing with her husky and spending time with family.
Special Interests
Education
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Mich.
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Mich.
Elishae Johnson, PhD, LPC, CAADC, Psychotherapist, Bronson HelpNet Director
Get to Know Elishae:
“I believe in creating the most authentic, nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic environment possible, to allow people to discover how to achieve balance, hope and an enhanced quality of life. I empower my clients to identify and tap into their own strengths, and utilize strategies from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including positive psychology, REBT, person-centered, CBT, mindfulness, and others, depending on each individual client’s needs.”
Elishae explains why she enjoys working in the mental health space and for Bronson Helpnet, stating that “There is something mutually beneficial and therapeutic in working with people, assisting them in navigating life. I often say that people don’t reach out to us in the best moments of their lives; they seek us when they’re the most vulnerable. I feel honored to be trusted to hold space for people who come to us for support. I enjoy working with our employer customers, who by nature of having an EAP, are communicating how important the people are in their organizations, and their commitment to supporting them being well.
Elishae loves joy and laughter, bold colors and experiences. She enjoys listening to R & B, gospel and hip-hop music. In her spare time, she can be found cooking (and eating), gardening, spending time with family and friends, attending festivals, traveling and shopping!
Special Interests:
- Adjustment after incarceration
- Adolescent adjustment and behavioral issues
- Anxiety and depression
- Career and leadership development
- Cultural issues
- Gender and sexual identity issues
- Interpersonal violence
- Life transitions
- Self-esteem
- Spiritual issues
- Substance abuse
- Trauma
Education
- Walden University, Minneapolis, Minn. - PhD – Counseling Psychology
- Spring Arbor University, Spring Arbor, Mich. - Master of Arts – Counseling
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich. - Bachelor of Arts - Communication Studies
Brandon McKinney, MA, LPC, Psychotherapist
Get to Know Brandon:
For Brandon, working as a therapist is a rewarding opportunity. He considers it a sacred privilege to work with clients who are fully invested in their growth and healing. Together, he works with each client to cultivate creative strategies, based in art and science, that help them get the most out of life.
Why does he enjoy working for Bronson HelpNet? “We are committed to making counseling accessible and appealing. To have short-term counseling included as an employment benefit reduces potential financial barriers. The fact that Bronson HelpNet benefits not only covers employees, but extends to their immediate family and household members, allows us to serve even more clients effectively.”
Outside of work, Brandon enjoys spending being active, having fun, and spending as much time as possible with family. “We love music and relish opportunities to enjoy live music! When possible, we also take rejuvenating vacations.”
Special Interests
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for depression, anxiety and general stress
- Marital and couple counseling
- Motivational interviewing to understand values
- Work/life balance
Education
- Master of Arts in Counselor Education with a specialty in in marriage, couple and family counseling, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Mich.
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in social work, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Mich.
Shoni Newhouse, MA, LPC, Psychotherapist
Get to Know Shoni:
“Bronson HelpNet’s short-term model of therapy is a testament to the healing power of a therapeutic relationship that allows for growth in a short period of time.”
Shoni enjoys working as a psychotherapist, as it is an opportunity to work with a wide range of people from different backgrounds and phases of life. She considers it an honor to work with clients as they display bravery and vulnerability during some of the hardest times of their life. When working with clients, Shoni uses a variety of interventions including sand-tray therapy, art expression, CBT, person-centered, solution focused, nutritional psychology and spirituality. Areas of focus include assessing values, creating healthy boundaries, practicing self-care, finding new strategies to reduce anxiety and identify triggers, creating a support system, and providing education on community resources.
Outside of work, Shoni enjoys making memories with family, watching international shows and making travel plans!
Special Interests
- Acculturation Immigration Identity Culture
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- First responders
- Foster care and adoption
- Pastoral care
- Racial identity
- Trauma
- Work-life balance
Education
- Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Public Health from Walden University, Minneapolis, Minn.
- Master of Arts in Pastoral Care and Counseling, Biola University, La Mirada, Cali.
- Master of Arts in Professional Counseling, Liberty University, Lynchburg, Va.
- Bachelor of Science in Biology, California Polytechnic Pomona, Pomona, Cali.
Cheryl Rosenbaum MA, LLP, Psychotherapist
Get to Know Cheryl:
“As a therapist, I am responsive, caring and always striving for excellence when partnering with my clients. I am here to meet them where they are at in their journey. I believe that we are doing the best we can, with what we have, at any point in our lives. Sometimes we learn coping skills that work well in certain timeframes, but those coping skills lose their effectiveness and leave us feeling stuck or overwhelmed. We want to change, but struggle with how. Therapy is about exploring and discovering the most effective path to make the changes to get where you want to be. I like to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and person centered, strength based, and play therapy techniques.”
For Cheryl, it is exciting to come to work every day and engage with a variety of unique people – each with their own background, hopes and dreams. She enjoys seeing her clients flourish and grow in the areas that they have identified as important to them.
Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys spending time with family, reading and training dogs. In fact, she has a trained therapy dog named Bella. Bella is a Golden Doodle and likes to visit with people wherever she goes.
Special Interests
- Anxiety and depression
- Attention Deficit (ADD, ADHD)
- Behavioral issues
- Children, youth and teens
- Family issues
- Foster care and adoption
- School issues
- Stress
- Trauma
Education
Master of Arts in Counseling Education, Counseling Psychology, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Mich.
Additional Certificates
- Graduate certificate in alcohol and drug abuse
- Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBY)
- Theraplay Institute Training, Level 1
Cheryl spent 10 years as a Juvenile Probation Officer, completing Michigan Judicial Institute training. She has also completed specialized training at Western Michigan University to provide quality, evidence-based neurodevelopmental assessments. Additionally, she has completed training in attachment observations.
Administrative and Support Staff
Our staff is ready to assist with any questions and direct you to the right resources, ensuring you receive the help you need.
Izzy Gabriela, Administration Specialist
Get to Know Izzy:
"I like knowing that I am helping other people when they need it. Even when they are going through a difficult situation, I can direct them in the right direction."
Pamala works behind the scenes at Bronson HelpNet, ensuring both employer partners and clients have the information, tools and resources they need to get the most out Bronson HelpNet. She enjoys the work at Bronson HelpNet because each day brings new challenges. Outside of work, Izzy enjoys spending time with her family. They love going camping and visiting new national parks. She also enjoys cooking and watercolor painting.
Lexi King, Information Specialist
Get to Know Lexi:
Lexi works behind the scenes at Bronson HelpNet, ensuring both employer partners and clients have the information, tools and resources they need to get the most out Bronson HelpNet. She most enjoys talking with new HelpNet clients and referring them to the right counselor for their individual needs and goals. She understands that setting up an initial counseling appointment can be a difficult task, and she enjoys making sure the process is as enjoyable as it can be. Besides helping the clients, Lexi also looks forward to seeing her coworkers and keeping the office in good spirits. Lexi has a special interest in cultivating a healthy work-life balance and practicing self-care – making Bronson HelpNet a great match for her professional skills and personal passions. Outside of work, Lexi can be found thrift shopping or at the dog park with her goldendoodle pup.
Education:
- Currently pursuing master's degree in strategic communications from Michigan State University, Lansing, Mich.
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.-
Pamala Milliron, Administration Specialist
Get to Know Pamala:
“It's not a typical office job with a manual in front of me telling me what my day will look like. Each time I answer the phone or assist someone, I know I am helping them connect with the people who are going to help them improve their life!”
Pamala works behind the scenes at Bronson HelpNet, ensuring both employer partners and clients have the information, tools and resources they need to get the most out Bronson HelpNet. Some of her favorite work projects include those that involve community outreach and community projects. Outside of work, Pamala volunteers at her local food bank, with mission programs and with various children’s services. She also loves traveling – including oversees to see her family abroad!
Maureen Jenkins, Account Manager
Get to Know Maureen:
Maureen works for Bronson HelpNet as the account manager for east Michigan and northern Ohio. She works directly with companies who are partnering with Bronson HelpNet as their EAP service. She ensures each employer partner has the information, tools and resources they need. “I enjoy working with our employer partners. I love building relationships and helping them provide mental health and wellness services to their employees,” Maureen explains. Outside of the office, Maureen enjoys being outside with her family, often going on walks and bike rides.
Education:
- Master of Science in Social Agency Counseling, University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio
- B.S.B.A. Marketing & Transportation Logistics, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Heidi Saxton, West Michigan Account Manager
Get to Know Heidi:
Heidi works for Bronson HelpNet as the account manager for West Michigan and Northern Indiana. She works directly with companies who are partnering with Bronson HelpNet as their EAP service. She ensures each employer partner has the information, tools and resources they need. “I love coming to work every day and building trusting relationships with our customers. Knowing that I have provided a tool, information, or simply words of encouragement to help a customer is the best part of my day,” Heidi says.
In her free time, Heidi enjoys hiking, shopping, cooking, spending time with my family and taking care of her backyard chickens.
Education:
- Bachelor of Business Administration, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio
- Master of Business Administration, Lake Superior State University, Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.
