About Counseling Connections
At Counseling Connections, we believe that healing begins with understanding and support. Everyone’s journey is unique, and we are here to provide a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy that meets you where you are.
Judy Holland, LCMHC
Practice Owner, Clinician
I have always been passionate about helping people, and nothing fulfills me more than seeing a client experience a breakthrough. My approach to therapy is flexible because I understand that no two people are the same. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), I specialize in trauma and trauma-related disorders, including PTSD, anxiety, and childhood trauma. As a Certified Trauma Specialist and Neuropsychology (NPT-T) certified professional, I am equipped with advanced tools to support healing.
Having previously served as a law enforcement officer and trainer, I have a deep understanding of the emotional toll that first responders face. Law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, and prison workers are often exposed to repeated trauma, yet many go untreated. I am committed to providing a safe space where these individuals—and anyone struggling—can process their experiences and regain control of their lives.
Karissa Ortiz, LCMHC
Clinician
I’m passionate about helping people find their footing through life’s ups and downs—whether that’s anxiety, depression, perfectionism, life transitions, relational trauma, or navigating the world as a neurodivergent or LGBTQIA+ person. Together, we’ll work on quieting your inner critic, building self-compassion, and feeling more grounded in who you are.
My approach is warm, laid-back, and affirming. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a real connection where you can show up exactly as you are, without having to filter or perform. I draw from holistic approaches such as person-centered, attachment-based, emotion-focused, strengths-based, and trauma-informed to meet you where you are. I truly believe you know yourself best, so my role is to offer a safe, supportive space to explore your story and help you feel more connected, confident, and empowered to live authentically
Alexis Pencola, LCSWA, LCASA
Clinician
I have always been passionate about helping others navigate life’s challenges and find hope, healing, and resilience along the way. I believe healing begins with feeling heard, supported, and understood, and my goal is to create a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel comfortable exploring your experiences and working toward meaningful, lasting change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCASA), I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, life transitions, stress, and other emotional challenges — together, we’ll identify your strengths, develop healthy coping strategies, and create personalized goals that support your growth and well-being.
I’m also trained and certified in Written Exposure Therapy (WET), an evidence-based treatment for trauma and PTSD, and I’m passionate about helping individuals process difficult experiences, reduce the impact of traumatic memories, and move forward with greater confidence and resilience. Whether you’re navigating a difficult season, adjusting to a major life transition, or seeking healing from past experiences, I am committed to providing a supportive space where you can feel empowered to make meaningful progress and regain a sense of balance in your life.
Toni Sunderland
Practice Manager
Toni Sunderland is the Practice Manager at Counseling Connections, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a welcoming experience for clients. She is married to her husband, Dean, and has three adult children. Outside of work, Toni enjoys playing golf, spending time at the beach, and making memories with her family.
A Personalized Approach to Healing
There is no one-size-fits-all method when it comes to therapy. Every individual’s experiences, challenges, and healing process are unique. That’s why I take a flexible, client-centered approach, tailoring each session to meet your specific needs. By combining evidence-based techniques with a compassionate, collaborative process, I help clients develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and regain control of their lives.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic methods, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Reshaping negative thought patterns
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – Processing trauma
Mindfulness Techniques – Enhancing self-awareness and emotional regulation
Animal-Assisted Therapy – Working with my co-therapists, Gidget, Little, and Snickers
Why Counseling Connections?
Seeking help takes courage, and I strive to make the process as comfortable and effective as possible. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, life transitions, or everyday struggles, my goal is to empower you with the tools to heal and grow.
Compassionate and
Client-Centered Care
Seeking help takes courage, and at Counseling Connections, we honor that first step by providing a supportive and understanding environment. Therapy should feel like a collaboration, not a one-size-fits-all process. I take the time to truly listen and adapt my approach to best serve your needs, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and empowered.
Healing Through
Personalized Care
Everyone’s journey is unique, which is why I use a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual. Whether you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, or life transitions, our sessions are designed to help you develop meaningful coping strategies. My goal is to equip you with the tools needed to create lasting change and a renewed sense of well-being.
A Safe Space for
Personal Growth
Healing isn’t just about addressing the past—it’s about building a stronger, healthier future. I strive to create a space where you can explore challenges without judgment, gain new perspectives, and take steps toward the life you deserve. No matter where you are in your journey, Counseling Connections is here to support you every step of the way.