Our Staff

Dawn Marie is the Chief Operating Officer and President of EAN. She oversees the operations of, and services provided by EAN along with supervision of all EAN staff. Dawn Marie also provides account-management services, training, consultation, assessment, referral, and brief counseling services. She has experience in inpatient and outpatient substance abuse counseling as well as group, individual, and couples counseling. With Dawn Marie’s 20+ years of experience working in Employee Assistance, she has expertise in working with clients to develop leadership skills, critical incident stress management, and diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Dawn Marie has also participated in the Racial Equity Institute and has been on the Board of Directors for Building Bridges in Asheville. She has been trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Critical Incident Stress Management and has experience in responding to workplace trauma. Dawn Marie has served on the Board of Directors of the International Employee Assistance Professionals Association. She has served a past president, vice president, secretary and treasurer for NC EAPA and received the NC EAPA Member of the Year Award in 2005and the John Burke President’s Achievement Award in 2018.  She has served as President of the Board of Directors for On Track Financial Education and Counseling WNC and is currently serving on the Board of Directors for Asheville Humane Society. Starting in April 2024 she will serve as a Non-Alcoholic Class A Trustee of the General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous.  Dawn Marie holds a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. She is a Certified Employee Assistance Professional and is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in NC.

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Misty is the Clinical Director at EAN. She provides clinical supervision of the EAN counseling staff, along with account management services, training, consultation, assessment, referrals, and brief counseling services. Misty has experience providing individual, group, and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. Misty has prior experience in the field of management and leadership, working as both a Clinical and Operational Director for several local behavioral health programs. In her clinical work, she maintains a focus on wellness, resiliency, and recovery. Misty provides support to clients addressing issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Misty has been trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Critical Incident Stress Management. She has attended training on Racism in Mental Health and participated in the Racial Equity Institute and Building Bridges. Misty holds a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southwestern College and is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in NC.

Tammy is the Communications and Logistics Manager at EAN. She is responsible for aspects of accounts payable and receivable, computer-related issues, contractual agreements, petty cash, office supplies, and company reports. She provides support to clinical staff for all EAN locations.  Tammy also maintains EAN’s social media, announcements, and website updates. Tammy is a seasoned Customer Service representative with a background in several different professional industries. Tammy has prior experience working as an Office Manager, Team Leader and Administrative Assistant. Tammy holds a Bachelor’s in General Management from the University of North Carolina, in Asheville, NC.

Minnie is the Mental Health Coach Coordiantor at EAN. She oversees the scheduling of new clients and offers support with resources and referrals. Minnie also provides phone triage and screening services and organizes response to Critical Incidents in the workplace. Minnie is passionate about helping individuals manage issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. She has prior experience working as a coordinator in a partial hospitalization program for children and adolescents and has worked as a researcher to investigate the public’s access to mental health resources. Minnie holds a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Sciences from University College London in the United Kingdom.

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Andrea is the Bookkeeper at EAN and is responsible for accounts payable and accounts receivable. While new to this position at EAN, she has over thirty-five years of administrative experience and has held positions in bookkeeping, auditing, office management, HR and payroll in several different professions. Andrea has a BA in General Studies/Business from Louisiana State University and is also a licensed Realtor in Florida and North Carolina.

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Amy is a Counselor at EAN as well as our Clinical Intern Supervisor, specializing in brief solution-focused counseling services, training, assessment, referrals, and internship supervision. She has prior experience as team leader and program manager for a local behavioral health agency providing individual, group, and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults across diverse community settings. Amy's clinical practice focuses on supporting clients dealing with stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression, emphasizing resilience and recovery through trauma-informed care. Amy's expertise includes certifications in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Components for Enhancing Career Engagement and Reducing Trauma (CE-CERT), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).

Amy holds a Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling from Western Carolina University, and is a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Qualified Supervisor (LCMHC, QS).

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Lou is a practicum student from Western Carolina University who provides short-term counseling and referrals. She is interested in LGBTQIA issues, anxiety, depression, parenting, and generational and family trauma. She is passionate about working collaboratively with people to find their most joyful, unique path in life. Lou utilizes a feminist and multicultural lens, and is a heartfelt fan of positive psychology, mindfulness, and a humanistic approach to counseling. Lou is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and has a BA in Psychology with a minor in Women’s Studies from Agnes Scott College in Decatur, Georgia. 

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Mark is a Mental Health Coach and an intern student from Lenoir-Rhyne University.  He provides brief counseling and referrals. Mark is interested in issues related to anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment difficulties, trauma, substance use and couples work.  He takes a person-centered approach, by focusing on wholeness and integration, leading to greater self-awareness, newfound resources, and a deeper connection to oneself and others. He holds a BA from Concordia University at Seward Nebraska, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling.

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Lauren is one of our mental health coaches at EAN and serves as the first point of contact for clients seeking support. She conducts phone and virtual screenings to connect clients with services, resources, supports, and referrals. Lauren is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges, build resilience, and improve their emotional well-being. She provides a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can openly explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism. Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology and has over thirteen years of experience working in the mental health field, with expertise in both community mental health and private practice.

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Meet LuLu, EAN’s Therapy Dog in Training

LuLu is a lovable, compassionate, playful, and gentle Shih Tzu who found a second chance at life after being rescued from a shelter in Florida. LuLu’s former owner passed away and she was surrendered by the family. A Rescue organization swooped her up and brought her to the mountains where one of our counselors, Amy, adopted her two weeks before Hurricane Helene.

Initially, LuLu was intended to be a companion animal but very shortly after she settled in it became clear she was meant for something greater. LuLu came to work with Amy and immediately won the hearts of our staff and clients. LuLu greets you at the door and makes you feel at ease and welcomed. She adores everyone of all ages and offers unconditional love to those who need it the most. Whether it's a soft nuzzle, a wagging tail, or just being by someone’s side, LuLu has an incredible ability to make everyone feel loved and welcomed.

LuLu is currently undergoing the required training to be a certified Therapy Dog, and with a heart full of love and a spirit of resilience, she brings joy, comfort, and healing to those in need.

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