mynewhopecc

Our Team

Meet Our Team

Christian Forte

MA, LPC

Chris works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She develops adolescents by helping them with goal seeking, mindfulness, life skills, and positive affirmations. She also helps them with building self-esteem and time management. Chris encourages adults who deal with mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and attempts, homicidal ideation, aggression, and bi-polar disorder.

Lorraine Butler

MA,LPC

Lorraine has worked in counseling or counseling education for 10 + years.  She has a cognitive behavioral approach to targeted solution focused  therapy and has extensive experience working with families. Lorraine is also trained as a facilitator of True Colors temperament and personality assessment, and has extensive experience in vocational and personal finance coaching.  Lorraine is utilizing telehealth only.

Tonya Taylor

MA, LMSW

 Tonya is a Licensed Master of Social Work who thrives to help individuals reach their best potential. Through life’s obstacles, Tonya’s goal is to help individuals embrace their self-worth, self-dignity, self-esteem, and strength. No matter how hard an obstacle may be, Tonya guides individuals through the obstacle with mindfulness, cognitive behavioral theory, and multiple other methods. Tonya works to reach the goal of release, reset, and regain for healing to conquer desired goals.

Karla Smith-Lucas

Nurse Practitioner

Dr. Karla Smith-Lucas is a healthcare expert, speaker,  and community health advocate. Dr. Lucas is a licensed and certified nurse practitioner specializing in family health and wellness, as well as mental health counseling. She has been in the healthcare field for over 20 years. She received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas, a Master of Science from Texas Woman’s University and Maryville University, and her doctorate degree from Rocky Mountain University. She has earned many certifications and received training from well-known institutions. She has traveled to many countries on medical mission trips and loves helping others abroad. She is a member of the United Nations Association. Her passion is “helping others care for themselves so that they live BIGGER and BETTER.”

Kimberly James

Mental Health Counseling intern

Kimberly is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling intern who helps women and couples navigate emotional overwhelm, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Her style is warm, reflective, and grounded in practical tools such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and narrative therapy. She is also certified in SYMBIS (Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts) and enjoys working with couples to build strong, faith-centered foundations for marriage. Her goal is to help you feel heard, gain clarity, and take empowered steps forward, whether you’re seeking healing, connection, or simply room to breathe and grow.

Jean Desir

Nurse Practioner

Jean is a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management. He is known for his compassionate, evidence-based approach to care. He earned his Master’s in nursing from Nova Southeastern University, where he deepened his commitment to mental health and holistic patient care.With extensive experience in a metropolitan hospital, Jean has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients across various clinical settings, including critical care. He builds strong, trusting relationships with those he serves, empowering them on their journey to mental wellness.