Archives: Our Teams

Bethany Turner, LMSW

Bethany was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Alabama and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of North Alabama. Bethany has over seven years of experience working in addiction recovery, serving in various roles and positions throughout the years. Most recently, after becoming a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Bethany stepped into the role of a therapist and provided individual, family, and group therapy to clients with substance use disorders in a residential treatment setting. Bethany’s journey into social work and therapy began with a deeply rooted passion for advocating for individuals in need. She believes in the resilience and potential of every person and is committed to providing the support and tools necessary for clients to achieve lasting change. Bethany incorporates a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether through cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, or mindfulness-based strategies, her goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their challenges and develop effective coping mechanisms. Through a holistic and client-centered approach, she aims to foster a sense of hope and possibility in every individual she works with and is honored to be a part of their recovery journey.

Shonna Martin, PMHNP

I was born in Pennsylvania, spent my childhood living right outside of Lexington KY, and then moved to south Alabama with my family in 2004. I moved to Birmingham in 2009 where I attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in psychology. I worked in crisis and intake for a substance use disorder treatment facility where my interest in psychiatry and pharmacotherapy flourished. I then obtained a Bachelor of Science in nursing at the University of South Alabama and worked as a registered nurse in inpatient psychiatry in Birmingham while I obtained a Master of Science in nursing specializing in mental health. I believe in an all-encompassing approach of promoting mental health and wellness with incorporating elements of psychopathology, thought and behavioral patterns, and bodily wellness. I have a profound appreciation for the intricate balance between mind and body and the complexities therein when addressing mental health symptomatology. I love getting to know my clients and collaborating with them to obtain optimal functionality and well-being through evidence-based pharmacotherapy. I love nature, being active, animals (especially dogs!) and finding new creative outlets.

Amy Rast, LPC

Amy brings a wealth of essential experience in her role as Chief Clinical Officer. Upon completion of her master’s degree, she embarked on a dedicated career in the field of substance use disorders, demonstrating unwavering commitment and expertise. Over the past 14 years, she has garnered extensive experience in both residential and outpatient settings, contributing to the holistic well-being of individuals grappling with addiction. Throughout her journey, she has honed her leadership skills, which has enabled her to guide and inspire fellow professionals. Since the inception of Longleaf Recovery and Wellness, she has held the pivotal role of Clinical Director, steering the clinical aspects of the organization with precision and dedication. In every professional endeavor, she strives to blend empathy with clinical expertise, creating a positive and transformative impact on the lives of those affected by substance use disorders. Amy received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Alabama, and she completed her Masters in Community Agency Counseling at the University of Montevallo.

Kayla White, LICSW

Kayla is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). She is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate support to individuals navigating the challenging journey of addiction recovery. Kayla has an undergraduate degree in Human Development and Family Life Education from Samford University and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Alabama. Kayla has had several years of experience in addiction disorders, working at Bradford in several roles. She brings a depth of knowledge and a warm, non-judgmental approach to her clients. Her practice is grounded in the belief that each person’s journey to recovery is unique. She uses a blend of: Motivational Interviewing, Experiential Learning, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and principles from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Kayla believes that everyone has the ability for positive change, and through a combination of therapeutic support, education, and empowerment, individuals can achieve lasting recovery.

Jen Watts, M.Ed., ALC, NCC

Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Jen holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Birmingham-Southern College and a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Montevallo. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and is currently under supervision as an Associate Licensed Counselor (ALC) in the state of Alabama. She is drawn to the humanistic and person-centered therapeutic approaches and strives to support her clients as they become creative and self-actualized individuals while in the safety of a therapeutic relationship. She believes it is a sacred experience to listen with an open mind and an empathetic heart as clients embody vulnerability and courage while pursuing their fullest potential. When words may seem inadequate or too difficult to be spoken, she provides clients with creative interventions such as breathwork, relaxation and grounding techniques, expressive arts therapy, and play therapy modalities like sand tray therapy. She works collaboratively with her clients to provide personalized, evidence-based therapies while supporting them in their quest to become congruent and autonomous agents of their own lives. Jen desires to support a diverse constellation of individuals discover their true selves as they embark on their recovery journey.

Jillian Dale, ALC

Jillian was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. She received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is additionally certified in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling, and she is currently under supervision as an Associate Licensed Counselor (ALC) in the state of Alabama. Prior to joining Longleaf, Jillian provided individual, family, and group counseling at the Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient levels of care. She has experience in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. She feels passionately about creating a compassionate and nonjudgemental therapeutic environment where clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to explore underlying issues, challenge distorted beliefs, and develop sustainable strategies for nourishing both body and mind. She is inspired by her clients’ resiliency and is committed to helping them navigate life’s challenges with hope and self-compassion. Jillian aims to practice a collaborative, person-centered approach, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients further achieve their goals for wellness. She is thrilled to be part of the Longleaf team and join clients on their journeys towards personal growth and healing.

Julia Fibbe, LMSW

Originally from Mobile, AL, Julia received her master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. As a Licensed Master’s Social Worker, Julia has experience providing emergency treatment in a residential setting to adolescents who are experiencing homelessness, runaways, or involved with the juvenile court system. Additionally, she’s equipped to offer crisis intervention, individual, family, and group therapy as well as skill development to the youth and their families. Julia specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and strength-based approach to assist her clients navigate their personal journeys toward healing and growth. She regularly works with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Julia brings a fresh perspective and genuine enthusiasm for supporting her clients as they embark on their healing journey. In her free time, Julia enjoys going to the beach, cooking, and spending time with friends.

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