HOPE Child and Family
Center of Texas
Meet Our Team
Brooke West PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, EMDR Certified
Dr. West has been featured on WFAA Day Break News with Mike Castellucci and The Therapy Hour on iHEART Talk Radio AM 1190 with Rusty Lozano.
Meet Dr. Brooke West:
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HOPE Child and Family Center of Texas was established by Dr. Brooke West in 2013. HOPE was created out of the desire to serve and give back to Dr. West's community. Dr. West specialized in play therapy during her Masters of Science and her Ph.D. She earned a B.A. in Psychology from Southern Methodist University and her M.S. and Ph.D. from University of North Texas. She has a vast experience in child trauma, psychiatric disorders, and abuse. Her expertise led her to want to establish a safe place for children, teens, and adults who desire to grow and to make changes for the rest of their lives. Offering child play therapy and being trained by the bests play therapists in the nation (Dr. Garry Landreth and Dr. Dee Ray), Dr. West is able to meet children developmentally based on what their needs are. Her services are known to be trust-worthy, professional, and genuine. Her passion for children and teens exudes in her work and success.​ Dr. West has worked at Children's Medical Center, Dallas Children's Advocacy Center, Green Oaks Hospital, and in Private Practice. She is a member of Texas Counseling Association and Association of Play Therapy. She has presented at conferences locally and nationally.
During her free time she loves to be outdoors with her two doodles, four children, and her best friend and husband. Dr. West loves to walk. run. ride bikes, people watch, travel all over, go to yoga, and bake. Her favorite places in the world to be are in coffee shops, praise and worship and on the Beach.
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Kayla Solley
LPC, RPT, EMDR Trained
Kayla Solley is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Kayla graduated with her Masters in Counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary as well as earned a B.S. in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Kayla is passionate about working with children and families in providing Play Therapy, activity therapy, and individual therapy.
Kayla served as a student intern and LPC-Associate at Hope’s Door New Beginnings Center (student intern), HOPE Child and Family Center of TX (LPC-Associate), and His Story Coaching and Counseling (LPC-Associate). Here she utilized play therapy, activity therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy techniques with children, teens, and young adults. Additionally, she co-facilitated psychoeducational groups for safe caregivers of traumatized children, and completed training in EMDR therapy. During her time as an associate she employed direct therapy services to children and teens, reporting a number of issues, including mourning death, divorce, suicidal ideation, self harm, PTSD, OCD, behavioral issues, and anxiety. Her specialty is play, activity, and individual therapy with children, teens, and young adults with trauma history and anxiety disorders.
Through her work with children and families, Kayla has gained a heart for serving her clients during difficult moments and life transitions while witnessing the happiness and joy in growth along the process. Kayla believes that children and families are resilient and capable of growth and healing when provided a safe space and through the positive collaboration of the client and therapeutic relationship.
When she is not working with her clients, Kayla loves spending time with her family and friends, painting, traveling, watching A&M football, and exploring the city of Dallas.
Raquel Shepherd
LPC
Raquel is a bilingual counselor who got her Bachelor's degree in Psychology in her country of birth, Venezuela at Universidad Rafael Urdaneta. While she lived in Venezuela, Raquel served clients as a school psychologist and a children's therapist getting experience in Cognitive-behavioral therapy. She completed a certification in Clinical Child Psychology and an internship with an institute in Granada, Spain.Raquel continued her academic journey in the United States as a full time student at Dallas Baptist University, where she received her Master's degree in Counseling. While in grad school, Raquel worked as an ABA behavioral assistant for children with Autism Spectrum disorder at Positive Behavior Support Corp. She also served survivors of domestic violence at Genesis Women's Shelter as a bilingual practicum student. Over this practicum, Raquel got training in trauma processing, play therapy, activity therapy, and group therapy for abused women and children.Raquel also worked as a mental health counselor at Dallas Metrocare Services serving children, adolescents, and parents with diverse issues such as ADHD, ADD, behavioral disorders, developmental disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, social skills, depression, and family crisis.Raquel is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas under the supervision of Dr. Brooke West, LPC-S, RPT-S. She combines Cognitive-behavioral techniques, psychoeducation, and the person-centered approach. Her goal is to provide a safe, welcoming and caring environment where clients can adjust to changes successfully, reach their best potential, and use what they learned in counseling to navigate life challenges. Her experience as a bilingual counselor has allowed her to counsel children, adolescents, and adults/parents from different cultural backgrounds, immigrants and other minorities.In her free time, Raquel loves spending quality time with her family and her yellow lab, Thor, trying new cafes or restaurants with friends, and traveling. She is a big fan of Harry Potter, and she loves singing and dancing Latin music.
Hailey Mitchell
LPC-Associate, Supervised by Dr. West
Hailey Mitchell is a graduate student at Lamar University, pursuing her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Counseling. She will graduate in August of 2023. Hailey received her Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences at Texas State University. Hailey is practicing under the supervision of Brooke West Ph.D., LPC-S, RPT-S.
During her practicum experience Hailey worked at Open Gate Counseling where she provided therapy for adolescents, teens and adults who struggled with life transitions, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, self-identity, coping skills, depression, and relationships. Hailey also assisted in play therapy, activity therapy and child therapy.
Hailey’s passion for counseling sparked in her early teenage years where she fell in love with working with adolescents as a nanny for many amazing families. In her time working with children, she also found her spark in helping others in a time of need and being a listening ear for others to feel safe and heard. She continues to work closely with families and children, providing services as a sleep consultant for infants.
Hailey has experience working with all ages, and especially enjoys working with adolescents. She incorporates Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution- Focused Therapy to best fit the client’s needs. She strives to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for the client to become the best versions of themselves. She is passionate about trust, empathy, and healing. Hailey is focused on walking alongside her clients offering a perspective to help create an impactful change in their lives.
In her free time, Hailey enjoys spending time with family and friends, spending time in nature, working out, football Sundays, scuba diving, shopping on amazon and traveling.
Juliana Long
LPC, RPT
Juliana Long began her academic career at Texas A&M University where she earned a B.S. in Psychology. While at A&M, Juliana collaborated with professors to conduct research in emotional-regulation, self-esteem, and self-control. After graduation, she earned pursed a M.A. in counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary where she gained specialized training in child and family counseling as well as caring for victims of trauma.
While in graduate school, Juliana provided therapy as a masters-level counselor at His Story Coaching and Counseling and Dallas Christian College. There, she developed a passion for walking with parents through the stress of juggling parenting and maintaining their own self-identity. Additionally, she enjoys working with clients of all ages struggling with relationship issues, grief, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Juliana believes that working with children at a young age is important as it helps grow them into healthy adults.
While counseling can feel intimidating, Juliana’s goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space for clients to process the rollercoaster moments of life. She believes that positive and lasting change exists in the context of healthy relationships and seeks to provide that to her clients. it is her greatest privilege to walk with others through some of their hardest moments.
When not working with clients, Juliana enjoys spending time with her husband, exercising, reading, and traveling.
Yunji Min
LPC-Associate, Supervised by Dr. West
Yunji Min began her studies at Sookmyung Women’s University, where she earned a B.A. in Counseling. Yunji pursued her M.A. in Missiology at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. After working as a children’s pastor and the refugee program director for children at New Song Church in Carrollton, TX, Yunji completed an M.A. in Biblical Counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary.
As a master-level counselor at Dallas Life Homeless Shelter, Yunji provided therapy to individuals and families, including those struggling with addiction, life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and unresolved trauma. Additionally, Yunji co-led an anger management class for residents at Dallas Life Homeless Shelter.
Yunji strives to create a safe, accepting, and non-judgmental environment for children and their families. She is passionate about helping children and families learn how to make positive changes in their lives. She believes that every child has the potential to be the best version of themselves, and she feels honored to be a part of their growth.
During her free time, Yunji enjoys traveling with her husband, meeting friends, going for a walk, and quilting.
April Bryant
LPC-Associate, Supervised by Dr. West
April Bryant is a Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate, under the supervision of Brooke West Ph.D., LPC-S, RPT-S. April received her B.S. Interdisciplinary Studies/ Middle School Specialist degree from Lubbock Christian University, in 2005. She then spent the following years raising a family and volunteering with women and children in various capacities. After adopting in 2014 she became increasingly interested in pursuing a career in counseling. April graduated with her Masters in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary where she specialized in child and family counseling as well as walking with those struggling with grief.
April’s practicum experience began at Hope Speaks in Richardson, TX. She worked collaboratively with children, teens, and adults in crisis, utilizing skills for grief, suicidal ideation, as well as a myriad of psychiatric conditions. April is passionate about her work with children, teens and families in providing Play Therapy, as well as working with individuals through issues with anxiety, depression, and grief and loss. Her unique life experiences as well as her training have equipped her to meet with others in an open and empathetic way. She loves working with individuals moving from chaos to connection and a greater understanding of who they are. It is a great privilege to work through people’s stories without judgment and she is passionate about using the counseling relationship as a vessel for change! In her free time April loves to spend time traveling with her five children, and husband, often on the sidelines, or in line waiting for tacos.
Hallie Tabor
LPC, RPT
Hallie Tabor began her academic career at St. Edwards University, where she earned a B.A. in Criminology with a Minor in Psychology. Hallie pursued her M.S. in Counseling at the University of North Texas, with a focus on adolescents. She expanded her studies to also be able to provide play therapy and use expressive arts in her counseling approach.
As an intern at UNT, Hallie worked at Jewish Family Service. She worked with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of experiences including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and life transitions. During her time at JFS she also created and co-led a virtual support group for children who were struggling with transitions and life changes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hallie believes that each individuals experiences are unique and works to create a safe and accepting environment for clients to share their world. She values the therapeutic relationship and takes time to connect and fully understand her clients beliefs and needs. She is very passionate about her work and helping children and families heal, grow, and learn more about themselves.
During her free time, Hallie enjoys singing, playing piano, reading, video games, and spending time with her friends.
Erica Thomason
LPC
Erica Thomason has over 20 years of experience, Erica has devoted her entire career to working with hundreds of children and their families in multiple capacities. Her knowledge in psychology, early education, physical and cognitive development, social-emotional wellness, attachment, positive parenting skills, and mindfulness have encouraged families to reach their potential at various levels. She has consistently guided children to cultivate a love of learning and confidence in their abilities and skills to positively navigate their worlds. Therapeutically, Erica has focused on the areas of Individual therapy, Parent Education, Child-centered play therapy, Theraplay, Filial play therapy, Existential group therapy, and Mindfulness.
She currently resides in Dallas, Texas where she and her husband have a beautiful home a few miles from downtown. They have two Yorkshire Terriers and welcomed their first child in June 2019. In Erica's free time, she enjoys being with friends and family, practicing yoga and traveling. Erica graduated from Garland High School with a diploma, from The University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Educational Psychology. In 2017 she established an educational company called The Dynamic Child that provides individual enrichment for children ages 3-9. Most recently she completed her graduate studies with Grand Canyon University in 2018 and earned a Masters in Counseling with a focus in Play Therapy.
Throughout Erica's career, she has worked with children and families in many capacities including as an educator, wellness coach, as a caregiver and now as a counselor. Erica looks forward to continuing to contribute positive impacts with families for many years to come.
Morgan Simpson
Internship student, Supervised by Dr. West
Morgan Simpson began her academic career at Texas A&M Commerce where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 2022 with a summa cum laude designation. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health at Texas A&M Commerce with the expected graduation date of December 2024.
She found her calling in the helping profession at a young age through volunteering. Morgan helped to deliver enrichment-based respite care for teens and adults with developmental disabilities at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church’s Epiphany program from 2014-2017. She has volunteered at Vickery Meadows Summer Reading Academy in 2015-2017. She has also volunteered as a tutor at McShan Elementary School to continue her relationship with her students.
From 2017-2022, Morgan volunteered at Spectra Therapies and helped to facilitate groups under the supervision of a LPC teaching social skills to young children that were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), social anxiety, and /or ADHD. She assisted with games that addressed effective turn-taking, taught techniques to start a conversation, and provided guidance in starting friendships. Morgan currently works part-time at The Dallas Cognitive Wellness Center (August 2022-present) as a psychometrist administering psychological/academic tests to children and adolescents under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
Morgan strives to walk alongside her clients to help them overcome life’s obstacles through a professional partnership and learning more about themselves in a safe, non-judgmental, and caring environment. She recognizes that each client is unique and may require different therapeutic interventions. Morgan uses an eclectic approach including Person-Centered Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy. During her free time, Morgan enjoys cooking, art, yoga, playing tennis, and spending time with friends and family including her two dogs.
Aly Scott
Intake Coordinator
Aly Scott is our intake coordinator and started at Hope in January 2023. Some background about Aly is she earned her degree in Computer Information Systems while playing D2 basketball at Tarleton State University in 2002. She launched her career in corporate America as a computer programmer at JCPenney, later transitioning to a business analyst role. After her twin daughters started Kindergarten in 2012, Aly focused on motherhood. After realizing her efficiency as a mom translated well to administration, she took Brooke's offer to be the intake coordinator at Hope. When you call our office, Aly is the one who answers the phone.
Outside of work, Aly finds joy in supporting her 16-year-old daughters in their basketball and volleyball pursuits. A devoted Dallas Cowboys and Iowa Hawkeyes fan, she also indulges in hobbies such as cake decorating, organizing, and the festive tradition of Christmas tree decorating.