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EXECUTIVE STAFF

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 John M. Duffey, Sr., PhD., MA, NCC, C-CBT, C-PE, CWT, CCT, C-CIMHA, WSC-III
Executive Director, CEO, Chairman of the BoD, and Founder of AIBH

 John is a committed clinical counselor and behavioral researcher dedicated to the improvement of the quality of life for his fellow veterans.  

 He is a combat veteran having been shot twice and blown-up once during his time in service and understands what combat trauma looks
 and feels like.  He has himself taken that arduous path towards recovery.  That experience has led him to see his purpose in helping others.

 John served in the Military Police Corps and was assigned to numerous missions involving the investigation of war crimes and crimes
 against humanity committed by foreign adversarial governments and terrorist groups.  His experiences in this field have opened his eyes  
 to the level of wickedness and evil people can inflict on others and the impact of loss and terror on indigenous civilian populations.  Later,  after leaving the Army, John worked as a detective in a local police department in the Atlanta, GA metropolitan area, Southside, where he
 served as a Domestic Violence Intervention Officer and Crimes Against Children Detective.  Working closely with DFACS, John has gained valuable experience and
 insight regarding the dynamics and impact of physical, sexual, psychological, and neglect abuse on children and families.  

​He received his BS in Terrorism Intelligence Studies from American Military University, a BA in Psychology from Auburn University his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP) from the prestigious Wake Forest University, and completed his doctorate training in 2023.  He has been involved in clinical mental health research since 2014 (12 years) and in clinical practice since 2019 (7 years).  John has also been a key developer and scientific writer on the Court Informing Mental Health Assessment platform regarding the performance of mental health assessments for court-involved adults, teens, and veterans.  This approach to mental health assessment to assist in court decision-making has proven revolutionarily useful and more effective than the archaic approaches of Forensic Psychology and psychological evaluations.  He is currently pursuing another PhD in Forensic Psychology from Walden University.

Much of Duffey's research focuses on PTSD and the various symptomatic criteria that negatively impact veterans and others who have experienced trauma in their lives. This includes areas of neuroscience and the examination and improvement of classic treatment modalities.  His focus is always on the improvement of the quality of life of others.  Chronic mental anguish should not dominate a lifespan that is already too short.  To-date, John has authored or co-authored over 23 peer-reviewed scientific articles in various journals such as, Journal of Special Operations Medicine, Journal of Military Medicine, Journal of Holistic Medicine, and others. 

John is certified in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Prolonged Exposure therapy and specializes in the treatment of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and other post-trauma conditions.  He works with combat veterans, police and EMS service members, survivors of domestic violence, survivors of sexual trauma, children survivors of physical abuse and neglect, and adult children of narcissistic parents.  

He is an accepted full member of the National Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, American Counseling Association, British Psychological Society, Special Operations Medical Association, Association of Military Surgeons of the United States, NAADAC, Alabama Counselors Association, and National Association of Forensic Examiners.  

John is also a Christian preacher and serves as a "Circuit Preacher" or "Friar of sorts" [said comically here] for various other churches such as the independent Methodists and others where their normal pastor is out on leave or illness.  John's religious and biblical perspective is that all people are inherently good and that it is a matter of taking responsibility for one's own actions and their consequences followed then by seeking change and Devine forgiveness that improves the lives of Christians and their relationship with Jesus.  "God helps those who take responsibility for sin and are trying to do better with absolute sincerity to do better"

Did you know that John is also a published science-fiction and philosophy author?  He is!  To date he has written several book series: Series Like: Aurelian War Saga, The Relic Protocol Saga, Terra Resurgens Series, Terra Nova Chronicles, and the Continuity War.  He has also written non-fiction such as Forensic Mental Health Assessment: A Handbook for Judges and Attorneys, Court-Informing Mental Health Assessment, CIMHA for Veterans, The Evolutionary Horizon, The Descendant's Hypothesis, and Science and Religion: A Contemporary Portrait.  In all, John has authored over 24 books.  
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 KRISTIN DAVIDSON, Executive Assistant, HR & Finance Director
​ Kristin is a highly skilled and experienced administrator with ten years of experience in public schools running offices and
 maintaining records. Her passion for supporting and helping veterans and veteran families motivates her to perform duties
 at a superior level. She has an associate’s degree in business management and accounting from Rasmussen university. Her
 education is accompanied by over twenty-five years of customer service and business operations experience. She
 currently works as the Executive Assistant & Administrator Director & Finance Department at the Alabama Institute for
 Behavioral Health.
​

 Her father served in the army, retiring as a 1SG (E8), with over 25 years of service.

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 CASH, Therapy Dog and Senior Milk Bone Analyst
 Cash is a trained service dog for Executive Director John Duffey and works as a therapy dog while in the clinic with him.  He
 is extremely gentle, good with kids, and genuinely loving.  Every one, staff and clients alike, love him and he loves them right
​ back.  He is a seven year-old Black Lab, Born in Hawaii.   

 Cash is sensitive to human emotion and will approach and apply pressure when he detects anxiety or distress in people.  
 Some family members of our clients come with the client so they can pet and play with Cash while they wait.

​ He is a certified Service dog.

CLINICAL STAFF

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 SHAY WASHINGTON, MA, LPC (AL and GA), AIBH Senior Counselor

 Shay is a Licensed Professional Counselor with several years experience dealing with trauma-related disorders and crisis
 intervention. She focuses on trauma's related to Military Sexual Trauma (MST), combat, survivors of domestic violence, and
 adult survivors of childhood sexual traumas. She has a BA and MA in clinical mental health counseling From Ft. Valley State  
​ University and is a native of Warner Robins, GA. Currently, Shay works for AIBH and the VA Suicide Hotline.

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 Dr. Gerald "Sandy" Graham, PsyD, MA, NCC, LPC (AL), Counselor

 I am a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), hold a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS CMHC) and am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Psychotherapist. 
 My passion lies in supporting US veterans, first responders, and those facing significant life issues and crises. I specialize in PTSD, Depression, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Stress Reduction and Coping, anger management, coping with chronic pain, adjustment skills, grief, personality disorders, self-esteem and self-efficacy building, suicidal and prevention and intervention.
 
My theoretical orientation is Cognitive-Behavioral which involves evidence-based integrated cognitive and behavioral theories supported by the integration of performance psychology and  mental resiliency skills for therapeutic coping and recovery. I apply an integrated approach to psychotherapy focused on how thought and perception impact and influence behavior, and the impact of cognitive distortions on behavior that affect the quality of life for individuals. 

​If you are seeking compassionate, expert guidance to navigate life's challenges, my psychotherapy works, and it will work for you.
 
AFFILIATIONS 
American Psychology Association 
American Counseling Association 
Alabama Counseling Association 
The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress 
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CERTIFICATIONS 
Prolonged Exposure for PTSD (PE-C) 
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Levels I and II (CCTP-I,II) 
​Neuro Psychotherapy (NPT-C) 

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CHRISTOPHER ROBINSON, MA, ALC (AL)

 Christopher J. Robinson, Sr. is a native of Prichard, Alabama. He was born to the union of retired Master Sargent Fletcher
 Robinson and the late Voncile C. Robinson. He is the proud father of Ava and Christopher, Jr. Christopher has three siblings:
 Fletcher K. Robinson, Voncile R. Stutts, and the late Felise K. Robinson. Christopher is a 2001 graduate of C.F. Vigor High
 School. He went on to further is education at Faulkner State Community College, where he earned an Associate of Arts
 degree in Criminal Justice. He then continued his education at Troy University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science
 Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Human Services.

 After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree, he continued his education at Troy University and earned his Master of  
 Science degree in Counseling and Psychology. In addition,  Christopher has earned several certifications including the American Red Cross HIV/AIDS Starter Facts, Case Management from the Alabama Department of Mental Health, and Associate License in Counseling from the Alabama Board of Examiners. After graduating college, Christopher followed his beloved mother’s career in the field of mental health. Currently, he is employed with the Alabama Department of Mental Health where he is a Certification Specialist for the Development Disability Division. Throughout a career that has spanned two decades, Christopher has established a reputation of working with families, stake holders, providers, and other community resources to provide quality care for the citizens of Alabama. He provides a comprehensive array of services and supports to individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families through contractual arrangements with community agencies. This is done with the assistance of other community service offices and comprehensive support teams and partners such as the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health. Christopher is a firm believer in the divisions mission of Serve, Empower, Support, and Promote the health and well-being of Alabamians. Christopher also devotes part-time services to the Keeton Correctional Institute as a monitor whereby he oversees federal inmates who have been released to the halfway house. There he helps inmates reunite with their families and integrate into the workforce.

Christopher 
has a passion for helping people. “My love is to see people happy and improve their lives whether it's personal or work related.”  His treatment specialization includes, but is not limited to, trauma, sexual abuse, ADHD, PTSD, self-harm, grief counseling, LGBTQ+, and stress management. Finally, Christopher is involved in several service organizations. He is a member of the (Cedar Grove 622 Masons Lodge, Prichard,Al Port City Second-liners, and Conde Explorers. He is also an extremely proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Alumni Chapter Beta Sigma Sigma Mobile, Al). In addition, he is a member of the American Counseling Association, Alabama Counseling Association, the Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association, MLK Monday Mystics Adult Mardi Gras Association, and City of Hope Church-Mobile Campus. In his spare time, he enjoys swing dancing, karaoke, swimming, bowling, and traveling the United States and abroad.
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 Michaela Humiston, AIBH Care Specialist
Michaela is a rising star at the Institute, recognized for her exceptional work ethic, deep empathy, and unwavering compassion for those she serves. She is dedicated to providing high-quality care and support to retirees and geriatric clients, helping them maintain dignity, independence, and quality of life as they navigate the challenges that often accompany aging.

With a long history of successfully assisting veterans and veteran spouses, Michaela has earned a reputation for her patient-centered approach and genuine commitment to others. She understands the unique needs of older adults and works tirelessly to ensure they receive the guidance, resources, and personalized support necessary for daily living. Her ability to build meaningful relationships and provide compassionate care makes her an invaluable member of the Institute and a trusted advocate for the individuals and families she serves.
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BRITTANY CONLEY, MA, ALC (AL)
 Brittney Conley is a dedicated clinician with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, adolescents, and families
 through life’s challenges. Originally from California, Brittney has spent much of her adult life moving across the country as a
 proud military spouse for more than 15 years, giving her a deep understanding of the unique experiences and stressors  military families often face.


 Brittney began her journey in the mental health field in 2009, working in suicide prevention hotlines, case management,
 and youth substance abuse facilities. Through these experiences, her passion for helping others continued to grow and
 inspired her to pursue a career as a clinician.


 She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Northwestern University and a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice
 from Webster University. Since completing her graduate studies, Brittney has worked in private practice as well as on
 military installations providing education and counseling services.


​Brittney specializes in working with trauma and adolescents and is passionate about helping clients build resilience, gain insight, and reach their personal goals. She believes in creating a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment where clients feel empowered to heal and grow.

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Jessica Hagensick, CMHCI

I am a Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate from Liberty University with a professional foundation shaped by global engagement, military service, and over a decade in the wellness industry. I completed my bachelor’s degree at the University of Minnesota in Global Studies with a concentration in Justice and a minor in Psychology, which first grounded my interest in understanding people within their cultural environments.
For the past 18 years, I have served in the U.S. Army—eight years active duty and ten in the reserves—where I continue to serve today. My experience includes combat deployment as well as non‑combat rotations in Civil Affairs, a branch centered on collaboration, community engagement, and adaptive problem‑solving. These experiences strengthened my capacity to work effectively under pressure and build rapport across diverse communities.

My commitment to community engagement also includes a history of working with at‑risk youth in the St. Paul, Minnesota school system. In this role, I supported students navigating trauma histories, socio-economic barriers, and development. This experience deepened my understanding of resilience and the importance of trauma‑informed, developmentally attuned care.

Outside the military and school system, I have spent over a decade in the fitness and wellness industry as a yoga and Pilates instructor, personal trainer, and behavioral change specialist. I also worked as a corporate team development manager, where I facilitated group cohesion, communication, and leadership growth. Across these roles, I developed a holistic, strength-based approach to supporting others—one that integrates mind, body, and environment.
I am also deeply involved in animal rescue, which has shaped my understanding of compassion, trauma recovery, and the healing potential of human–animal relationships. This work reinforces my belief in dignity, patience, and relational safety—values that directly inform my clinical approach.
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I love to travel and have explored much of the world independently before shifting to shared adventures with my husband, who is active duty. These experiences continue to shape my multicultural awareness and my belief in meeting clients with humility and respect for their lived experiences.
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As a counselor‑in‑training, I am committed to integrating evidence‑based practice with a relational, culturally responsive, and wellness‑oriented approach. My goal is to support clients in developing resilience, meaning, and agency as they navigate life’s challenges.

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 Brian Davis, CMHCI
 Brian is a dedicated graduate student and military veteran who is bringing a wealth of life and leadership
 experience into the field of clinical mental health counseling. He offers more than 25 years of experience
​ in healthcare leadership and medical planning, with a career shaped by navigating complex human systems and building
 trust across diverse groups. His service as a senior leader in the U.S. Air Force—including eleven years overseas and four
 successful deployments, where he led large teams and managed critical healthcare infrastructure around the world—has
 given him a deep appreciation for resilience, crisis management, and the value of trauma-informed care in healthcare
​ settings.

 Throughout his professional journey, Brian has been known for his ability to bring people together, mentor developing professionals, and foster collaboration in complex organizational settings. These experiences have shaped a deep commitment to advocacy and a people-first approach to problem-solving. As a clinical intern, he draws on his background in healthcare technology and leadership to offer clients a grounded, empathetic, and culturally sensitive environment.

Outside of his clinical work, Brian is an active member of his local community and participates in several veteran and non-veteran advocacy groups. He is also a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors and Chi Sigma Iota, the counseling academic and professional honor society (Rho Eta Sigma Epsilon chapter). He is passionate about lifelong learning and personal growth across a wide range of interests. He speaks Mandarin Chinese, is a proficient musician, and is currently pursuing a general aviation private pilot license. His broad life experience helps him connect with people from many backgrounds, especially those navigating major career transitions or the shift from military to civilian life.​

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 Shawn Shelton, CMHCI
 I am an alumni of Troy University with a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Applied Behavioral Analysis.
 Currently, I am a part of Troy University's graduate program for Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am looking forward
 to becoming a counselor for the community.


 When planning out what I wished to have as a career, I wished to dedicate myself to one where I know I am having a direct
 positive impact on the lives of others and am actively helping others become the best versions of themselves that they can
​ be.


With counseling, I aspire to be someone who makes a genuine effort to understand the perspectives of people and reassure them that they will come into a non-judgemental space that will allow them to safely work on themselves and conquer the obstacles that life has put in their way. I am a firm believer in the idea that coming to therapy is a great first step on the road of progress and that any progress is good progress no matter how small it may seem.

I look forward to giving my assistance and care to not only those who have served or currently serve our country in some way, shape, or form but to anyone who comes through our doors in need of someone that can truly work with them and listen to them.

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

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 ANGELA LEE, Billing and Claims Specialist
With over 30 years of experience in customer service and management, Angela Lee brings a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to every role she undertakes. Her expertise lies in insurance and billing, having successfully managed multiple companies throughout her career. Currently, Angela serves in the Billing and Insurance Department at AIBH, where she is a vital part of our operations.
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Coming from a proud family tradition of military service, Angela is deeply committed to serving veterans and giving back to the community. Her dedication, integrity, and compassion are evident in the care she provides to those who have served.

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Contact: 334-408-4689

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