EXECUTIVE STAFF
John M. Duffey, Sr., D.Div, 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 and his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP) from the prestigious Wake Forest University. 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.
As he has always been, he is continuing his scholarship by pursuing a PhD in Forensic Psychology from Walden University. When completed, John, will be the only Trained Forensic Psychologist is six counties along east-central Alabama.
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.
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 and his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP) from the prestigious Wake Forest University. 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.
As he has always been, he is continuing his scholarship by pursuing a PhD in Forensic Psychology from Walden University. When completed, John, will be the only Trained Forensic Psychologist is six counties along east-central Alabama.
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.
CMsgt(Ret)[USAF] David Sharpe,
Member of the Board of Directors
David Sharpe is a Vietnam War Veteran and has also deployed to Desert Storm. He understands the rigors of
military life, forward deployment, and combat environments. He served 26 years in the USAF and as a Veteran Service
Officer (VSO) for the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs for 21 years. He has a long history of compassion,
empathy, and drive to help his fellow veterans.
David invested in the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health, Inc. to enhance the clinic's mission of supporting
veterans with the latest and most effective modes of treatment for military service-related mental health challenges. At
present he serves on the Board of Directors and oversees C and E level operations and direction.
Member of the Board of Directors
David Sharpe is a Vietnam War Veteran and has also deployed to Desert Storm. He understands the rigors of
military life, forward deployment, and combat environments. He served 26 years in the USAF and as a Veteran Service
Officer (VSO) for the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs for 21 years. He has a long history of compassion,
empathy, and drive to help his fellow veterans.
David invested in the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health, Inc. to enhance the clinic's mission of supporting
veterans with the latest and most effective modes of treatment for military service-related mental health challenges. At
present he serves on the Board of Directors and oversees C and E level operations and direction.
SFC(Ret)[U.S. Army] Steven Jillson,
Member of the Board of Directors
Steven Jillson is a 24 year U.S. Army Cavalry retiree with multiple OIF deployments. As a Combat Veteran he has a deep commitment to God, Country, and friends. He is committed to serving the mental health and other needs of our countries veterans and has been working with AIBH for the past eight years. His service includes years of in the American Legion and other Service Support organizations as the Adjutant.
At present, Steven serves as a member of AIBH's Board of Directors and advocates for veteran rights and benefits throughout the State of Alabama. His resume is filled with military and veteran-centered advocacy and support. He invested in AIBH for the purposes of enhancing its ability to serve the veteran community throughout the state.
Member of the Board of Directors
Steven Jillson is a 24 year U.S. Army Cavalry retiree with multiple OIF deployments. As a Combat Veteran he has a deep commitment to God, Country, and friends. He is committed to serving the mental health and other needs of our countries veterans and has been working with AIBH for the past eight years. His service includes years of in the American Legion and other Service Support organizations as the Adjutant.
At present, Steven serves as a member of AIBH's Board of Directors and advocates for veteran rights and benefits throughout the State of Alabama. His resume is filled with military and veteran-centered advocacy and support. He invested in AIBH for the purposes of enhancing its ability to serve the veteran community throughout the state.
KRISTIN DAVIDSON,
Deputy Executive Director and Director of Finance & HR
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, Human Resources Director &
Director of Finance at the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health.
Her father served in the army, retiring as a 1SG (E8), with over 25 years of service.
Deputy Executive Director and Director of Finance & HR
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, Human Resources Director &
Director of Finance 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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MIRELA THOMPSON,
Deputy Director of Finance. Healthcare has been my passion for nearly two decades. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in both patient care and medical administration, experiences that have taught me the importance of compassion, communication, and attention to detail. In my role as Billing and Coding Specialist, I enjoy helping patients navigate the financial side of their care while supporting our providers so they can focus on what they do best. I believe kindness, integrity, and teamwork are the foundation of exceptional patient care. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, staying active, and continually expanding my knowledge of medical billing and behavioral health. I’m honored to be part of a team that is making a meaningful difference in our community. |
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
SHAY WASHINGTON, MA, LPC (AL and GA)
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.
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.
Dr. Gerald S. “Sandy” Graham, PsyD, MS CMHC, LPC, NCC.
Psychotherapist.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Board-Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
specializing in Performance Psychology, having expertise bridging clinical mental health counseling and performance
psychology to optimize mental health and resilience for productive mental wellbeing and positive daily living in high-
stress veteran, first responder, sport and medical populations. My patients call me “Dr. Sandy”.
I am adept at evidence-based cognitive therapies (CBT, CPT, SIT, PE for PTSD) and applying an integrated approach to psychotherapy with demonstrated proficiency providing comprehensive psychological evaluations, diagnostic assessments, in-dept diagnoses, effective treatment planning, and trauma informed care for addressing CPTSD, PTSD, secondary traumatic stress (STS), chronic stress, anxiety, depression, as well as mood disorders, thinking disorders, anger management, behavioral issues, chronic pain, sexual abuse, suicidal ideation, coping skills, stress tolerance, burnout prevention, mental resilience, lack of self-esteem, and psychological testing and evaluation.
I have a Navy affiliation and my family is military with a history of military, first responder and government service dating back to pre-revolutionary Virginia. It is an honor to have the opportunity to serve our veteran and active duty service member population, as well as law enforcement and first responders, and medical populations that are dedicated to service to others, and athletes experiencing both performance and mental health issues. To help my patients navigate my psychotherapy approach I developed an Integrative Cognitive Therapy Workbook that blends cognitive therapies, neuroscience and performance psychology. Growing up in a military family, I had the opportunity to live in the Panama Canal, Europe, and Canada with the majority of my life in the South. Growing up I played baseball, football, struggled with golf, tried my hand at fly-fishing , worked as a ‘cowboy’ and have a ‘love’ for Naval Aviation and the F14 Tomcat. I enjoy family, exploring Alabama, and Auburn University sports, particularly football, baseball and golf.
CERTIFICATIONS
Prolonged Exposure for PTSD (PE-C) Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Levels I and II (CCTP-I,II) Neuro Psychotherapy (NPT-C) AFFILIATIONS American Psychology Association American Counseling Association Alabama Counseling Association The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress® Military Family | Romans 12-2 | Isaiah 30:21 | Isaiah 6:8. “To Every American Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine and Coastie Who Bore The Wounds of War, Who Stood The Wall For Our Beloved Country, Who Rode, Sailed or Flew Into Battle, Who Cowboyed Up, May God Bless You and This Beloved Country".
Psychotherapist.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Board-Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
specializing in Performance Psychology, having expertise bridging clinical mental health counseling and performance
psychology to optimize mental health and resilience for productive mental wellbeing and positive daily living in high-
stress veteran, first responder, sport and medical populations. My patients call me “Dr. Sandy”.
I am adept at evidence-based cognitive therapies (CBT, CPT, SIT, PE for PTSD) and applying an integrated approach to psychotherapy with demonstrated proficiency providing comprehensive psychological evaluations, diagnostic assessments, in-dept diagnoses, effective treatment planning, and trauma informed care for addressing CPTSD, PTSD, secondary traumatic stress (STS), chronic stress, anxiety, depression, as well as mood disorders, thinking disorders, anger management, behavioral issues, chronic pain, sexual abuse, suicidal ideation, coping skills, stress tolerance, burnout prevention, mental resilience, lack of self-esteem, and psychological testing and evaluation.
I have a Navy affiliation and my family is military with a history of military, first responder and government service dating back to pre-revolutionary Virginia. It is an honor to have the opportunity to serve our veteran and active duty service member population, as well as law enforcement and first responders, and medical populations that are dedicated to service to others, and athletes experiencing both performance and mental health issues. To help my patients navigate my psychotherapy approach I developed an Integrative Cognitive Therapy Workbook that blends cognitive therapies, neuroscience and performance psychology. Growing up in a military family, I had the opportunity to live in the Panama Canal, Europe, and Canada with the majority of my life in the South. Growing up I played baseball, football, struggled with golf, tried my hand at fly-fishing , worked as a ‘cowboy’ and have a ‘love’ for Naval Aviation and the F14 Tomcat. I enjoy family, exploring Alabama, and Auburn University sports, particularly football, baseball and golf.
CERTIFICATIONS
Prolonged Exposure for PTSD (PE-C) Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Levels I and II (CCTP-I,II) Neuro Psychotherapy (NPT-C) AFFILIATIONS American Psychology Association American Counseling Association Alabama Counseling Association The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress® Military Family | Romans 12-2 | Isaiah 30:21 | Isaiah 6:8. “To Every American Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine and Coastie Who Bore The Wounds of War, Who Stood The Wall For Our Beloved Country, Who Rode, Sailed or Flew Into Battle, Who Cowboyed Up, May God Bless You and This Beloved Country".
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.
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.
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.
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.
Justino Macias, CMHCI
Justino Macias is a CMHCI from Texas A&M-Kingsville, preparing for a PhD in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in trauma. He is passionate about serving veterans, active-duty service members, and their families through culturally attuned, trauma-informed care.
A U.S. Army Infantry veteran with 12 years of service, Justino deployed across three campaigns in Afghanistan; Operation Enduring Freedom, Resolute Support, and Freedom Sentinel. His roles span across small-unit fire-team and squad tactics, sniper operations to Platoon Sergeant. These experiences exposed him firsthand to the realities of combat: firefights, ambushes, IED threats, profound loss, and the challenges of stateside transition and displacement. His later assignments as Drill Sergeant and primary instructor for the Modern Army Combatives Program (MACP, or Close Quarters Tactics & Martial Arts) facility on Sand Hill at Fort Benning, GA, concluded his service.
As an additional duty, Justino served as Resiliency Trainer, teaching service members and family members practical coping strategies, physiological regulation techniques, and value-based resilience practices. These roles inspired interest in the counseling professions, providing him with direct insight into both the effects of service and the pathways to recovery—insight he now brings to the therapeutic space.
Justino is dedicated to bridge the often-misunderstood gap between military culture and mental health care. He intimately knows the conditioning, unspoken influences, and barriers many veterans face when seeking help. His approach honors each individual’s unique story, offering an in-depth space for healing, growth, and reconnection. At the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health, he is eager to support the clinic’s mission of providing care to those who have served.
Outside the office, Justino maintains balance through fitness, MMA training, hiking, reading, writing, range time, video games, and the occasional creative video project exploring philosophical and existential themes—pursuits that continue to inform his empathetic, holistic perspective.
Justino Macias is a CMHCI from Texas A&M-Kingsville, preparing for a PhD in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in trauma. He is passionate about serving veterans, active-duty service members, and their families through culturally attuned, trauma-informed care.
A U.S. Army Infantry veteran with 12 years of service, Justino deployed across three campaigns in Afghanistan; Operation Enduring Freedom, Resolute Support, and Freedom Sentinel. His roles span across small-unit fire-team and squad tactics, sniper operations to Platoon Sergeant. These experiences exposed him firsthand to the realities of combat: firefights, ambushes, IED threats, profound loss, and the challenges of stateside transition and displacement. His later assignments as Drill Sergeant and primary instructor for the Modern Army Combatives Program (MACP, or Close Quarters Tactics & Martial Arts) facility on Sand Hill at Fort Benning, GA, concluded his service.
As an additional duty, Justino served as Resiliency Trainer, teaching service members and family members practical coping strategies, physiological regulation techniques, and value-based resilience practices. These roles inspired interest in the counseling professions, providing him with direct insight into both the effects of service and the pathways to recovery—insight he now brings to the therapeutic space.
Justino is dedicated to bridge the often-misunderstood gap between military culture and mental health care. He intimately knows the conditioning, unspoken influences, and barriers many veterans face when seeking help. His approach honors each individual’s unique story, offering an in-depth space for healing, growth, and reconnection. At the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health, he is eager to support the clinic’s mission of providing care to those who have served.
Outside the office, Justino maintains balance through fitness, MMA training, hiking, reading, writing, range time, video games, and the occasional creative video project exploring philosophical and existential themes—pursuits that continue to inform his empathetic, holistic perspective.
Garilyn Young, CSWI
Garilyn Young is a retired United States Army Sergeant First Class with 26 years of military service and leadership experience. Throughout her military career, she served in positions including Human Resources Sergeant, Training NCO, and Readiness/Operations NCO. Much of her work involved supporting Soldiers, addressing personnel and readiness concerns, coordinating resources, and helping Soldiers and their families navigate challenges associated with military service. These experiences helped shape her commitment to service and ultimately influenced her decision to pursue a career in social work.
Garilyn earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Troy University and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at Troy University. As an MSW practicum student at the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health, she is developing her clinical social work skills through supervised learning, observation, and direct practice experiences. She looks forward to expanding her knowledge of behavioral health, strengthening her ability to work effectively with individuals and families, and learning from experienced mental health professionals.
As a Veteran herself, Garilyn has a particular passion for serving Veterans, active-duty service members, and military families. Her years of military service provide her with a personal understanding of military culture, the importance of connection and support, and some of the challenges that can accompany the transition from military to civilian life. Her long-term professional goal is to work with Veterans and their families as a clinical social worker, providing compassionate support while helping them build upon the resilience and strengths they already possess.
Garilyn's commitment to service also extends into her faith and community. She is actively involved in her church and values opportunities to serve and encourage others. She believes that her transition from military service into social work represents a continuation of something important throughout her life: serving people. She is excited to begin this next stage of her professional journey at the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health and to continue learning how she can best serve those who have served others.
Garilyn Young is a retired United States Army Sergeant First Class with 26 years of military service and leadership experience. Throughout her military career, she served in positions including Human Resources Sergeant, Training NCO, and Readiness/Operations NCO. Much of her work involved supporting Soldiers, addressing personnel and readiness concerns, coordinating resources, and helping Soldiers and their families navigate challenges associated with military service. These experiences helped shape her commitment to service and ultimately influenced her decision to pursue a career in social work.
Garilyn earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Troy University and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at Troy University. As an MSW practicum student at the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health, she is developing her clinical social work skills through supervised learning, observation, and direct practice experiences. She looks forward to expanding her knowledge of behavioral health, strengthening her ability to work effectively with individuals and families, and learning from experienced mental health professionals.
As a Veteran herself, Garilyn has a particular passion for serving Veterans, active-duty service members, and military families. Her years of military service provide her with a personal understanding of military culture, the importance of connection and support, and some of the challenges that can accompany the transition from military to civilian life. Her long-term professional goal is to work with Veterans and their families as a clinical social worker, providing compassionate support while helping them build upon the resilience and strengths they already possess.
Garilyn's commitment to service also extends into her faith and community. She is actively involved in her church and values opportunities to serve and encourage others. She believes that her transition from military service into social work represents a continuation of something important throughout her life: serving people. She is excited to begin this next stage of her professional journey at the Alabama Institute for Behavioral Health and to continue learning how she can best serve those who have served others.
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.
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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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. 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. 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. |