Providing Competent Care
Barnhill & Associates Counseling Center is dependent on its counselors. Our team of knowledgeable therapists craft a warm, personalized counseling experience based on safety, communication and respect. With diverse backgrounds in a multitude of specialties, each therapist brings a unique perspective and service to the table.
Take a moment to learn more about each person below.
When you’re ready to get to know us, we’d love you to reach out!
C L I N I C A L D I R E C T O R
Matt Barnhill, MA, CART
Matt Barnhill has worked as an adult, adolescent, family, and marriage therapist since 1983.
With a Master’s Degree in Behavioral Science fromThe University of Houston Clear Lake and a Bachelor’s degree in Theology and Psychology from Hardin Simmons University, Matt began his career as an individual, marriage and family therapist at Pasadena Christian Counseling Center. This led to positions at River Pointe Church as an Associate Pastor and Pastor of Counseling at River Pointe Church as well as a Program Director and therapist at Rapha Treatment Centers. Holding these positions allowed Matt to serve people both through the ministry and clinically, specializing in adult and adolescent psychiatric and chemical dependency issues.
The incredible experiences at each stop in his career perfectly prepared Matt for his role today as the owner and Director of Barnhill & Associates Counseling Center. Matt specializes in marriage and family struggles, and alcohol addiction, sexual addiction, men’s issues, depression, divorce mediation and other life struggles. A Certified Anger Resolution Therapist (CART), Matt is also experienced in facilitating anger management.
In addition to his duties running BACC and providing clients with counseling, Matt is routinely sought out by leaders in business, education, and faith-based communities to speak as a mental health expert and advocate.
Matt has been married to his high school sweetheart, Julie, since 1981. Together they have three daughters, three sons-in-law and ten amazing grand kids they love spending time with. A well rounded man, Matt also enjoys hunting and riding motorcycles.
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND
Julie Barnhill, MA
Earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Abilene Christian University with a major in Elementary Education and a Specialization in Early Childhood, Julie Barnhill taught Kindergarten for 14 years and spent most of her adult life dedicated to raising her children.
Following her passion for marriage, family and God’s best for each individual, Julie completed her Masters of Art degree in counseling from Liberty University and joined Barnhill & Associates in 2014. Since that time, Julie has led various groups including divorce recovery and marriage retreats while teaching Bible classes in several churches.
Today, Julie continues to see children, adolescents, and adults (both single and married), focusing on relationship issues, as well as, anxieties, depression, and adjustment concerns.
She has been married to Matt since 1981. Their family includes 3 daughters, 3 son-in-laws and 10 beautiful GRAND children. Along with her husband, she has lived in Ft. Bend County since 1984. In her spare time Julie loves to travel, cook, decorate, entertain and love on her friends and family.
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND
Tiffany Chen, MS, NCC, LPC
Tiffany Chen, a licensed Professional Counselor in Texas and a Nationally Certified Counselor, comes to Barnhill & Associates Counseling Center with a Bachelors in Psychology from Walden University as well as a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling.
Holding a belief that every individual is uniquely and wonderfully made, Tiffany began her career working with Christian faith-based organizations. This background prepared her to integrate psychology alongside theology for those who desire Christian counseling. Of course, Tiffany possesses a respect for the views of each individual client she sees at BACC.
Regardless of background, Tiffany aims to walk alongside her clients, guiding and supporting them as they make healthy decisions. Using a number of approaches to explore issues, work towards personal growth and healing and remove daily challenges, Tiffany works hard to develop a therapeutic relationship. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused, person centered and family systems methods. Occasionally, as clients have different needs, some approaches may need to be combined to create a successful experience.
With clinical experience counseling adolescents (age 13 and up), adults, couples and families, Tiffany’s expertise extends to areas of relationship issues, reconciliation (with self and others), anxiety, depression and Women’s Issues. As such, she offers individual counseling, couples therapy, family counseling and group counseling.
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND
LoriAnn Nadeau-Colvin,
MS, LMFT, MFCC
LoriAnn Nadeau-Colvin, MS, LMFT, MFCC is a Licensed Marriage, Family and Child Therapist at Barnhill & Associates Counseling Center. She began her 35 years of experience in the mental health field after attaining her Master of Science degree in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling (MFCC), from California State University, Northridge and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Health and Nutrition from the University of Maine.
Throughout her illustrious career, LoriAnn has worked with nearly every common and uncommon mental health issue we are aware of, from anxiety and depression to Dissociative Identity Disorder. In addition, Lori has received training in Child Play Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based therapy used in the treatment of trauma. Her expertise continues into the areas of Learning Disabilities, ADD/ADHD, neurologically based sensory integration and processing, mood dysregulation, parenting, divorce recovery and woman’s issues. LoriAnn even has experience performing QEEG brain mapping and facilitating specialized treatment protocols for retraining the brain.
LoriAnn’s expertise also intersects with her personal life in multiple ways, giving her a personal insight into what many of her clients are experiencing. Recovered from an eating disorder herself, LoriAnn received specialized training from Carolyn Costin MFCC, a world renowned expert on the treatment of Eating Disorders. She also received specific training working with children with Special Needs and their families, as her family falls into this category. Her youngest son has Down Syndrome and has a high level of medical complexity with complicated medical trauma.
“The Lord has led me through each stage of my life using those experiences good and bad to grow me, grow my relationship with Him, gain clinical skills and expertise to help His hurting children no matter what age or stage of life. The Lord has blessed me with a multitude of many unique experiences, some just plain miraculous, that have built one upon another to provide perspective, wisdom and insight with the awesome responsibility to steward His gifts wisely and mindfully in this fallen world.”
LoriAnn works with individuals from 3 years old to 103. She also offers family therapy and couples therapy. In addition to weekday hours, she is in the office every other Saturday.
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND
Magan Barnhill Echols, MA, NCC, LPC-A
God placed the idea of becoming a counselor on my heart about 10 years ago, but we had three young children, and we were moving every 1-3 years as an Air Force family, so I felt Him urging me to wait for the right time. Recently, my husband retired from the Air Force after 23 years of service and I knew it was time to start this next journey. We are over-joyed to be back in the great state of Texas and never leave again! I have been married for over 20 years and I am a mother of three.
I am interested in family systems and how they shape our lives starting at a very young age. I am passionate about helping teenagers and college students as they navigate what is a hard time for so many young people. I love conversations about parenting and sharing what I have learned while raising kids in the crazy world we live in. It is with a humble heart, a desire to learn from those around me, and all the experiences in my life thus far as a wife, mother, and Air Force family that make up who I am as a counselor. What I have to offer you is a safe place to share your story, the good parts and the hard parts, without judgment. It is an honor to walk alongside you as you overcome life’s challenges.
I attended Texas A&M for the first three years of college and then married my husband who was already a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, and we were stationed at Langley AFB in Virginia. I finished my undergraduate degree at Old Dominion University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I graduated with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University in August 2024.
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God.” Micah 6:8
LOCATIONS: VIRTUAL ONLY
Linda Horan
Linda Horan, a certified Biblical Counselor and a Certified Mediator, received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a cognate in Social Work from the University of South Carolina.
She was trained in both Prepare and Enrich and SYMBIS, pre-marital classes offered at Barnhill & Associates Counseling Center. Additionally, Linda offers classes on How to Handle Your Daily Anger, Marriage Counseling and Mediation.
Having worked for Texas Child Protective Services and The Bair Foundation, a Foster Home Child Placing Agency, she has also taught Parenting and Co-Parenting Classes and Foster Parent Training Classes.
Linda’s approach to Biblical Counseling is inspired from Proverbs 3: 5-6, which reads: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways, acknowledge him and he will make straight your path”.
This verse guides her passion to help family members learn to show love, acceptance of the truth, and forgiveness towards each other and themselves. Through that forgiveness and acceptance, each individual is able to grow into the person God has prepared them to be.
Linda enjoys spending time with her husband, their three daughters, son-in-laws, and three darling grandchildren.
LOCATIONS: SUGAR LAND, RICHMOND, KATY
Christie Jacobus, MSN, RN-BC, M.Ed, LPC
Meet Christie Jacobus, a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience as a Registered Nurse within the same hospital system and an additional 15+ years as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Her dual expertise uniquely positions her to help understand the correlation between mind, body and spirit.
While Christie’s primary focus is on married and pre-married couples, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for fostering strong, enduring relationships. She is also adept at working with individuals that are committed to being the best version of themselves and maximizing all their potential. Using a variety of therapeutic techniques and frameworks, she works with clients to discover their opportunities for growth and discovery.
What sets Christie apart is her blend of optimism and down-to-earth practicality. She is not just an encourager of the possibilities within your life but is also dedicated to teaching, learning, and applying proven skill sets that can make a real difference.
Since 2020, Christie has been extending her expertise to virtual platforms, making her services accessible on top online counseling platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace. Now, she is excited to join the dynamic team at Barnhill and Associates Counseling Center toffer you the opportunity of virtual and online counseling sessions
Take the next step toward better health and relationships with Christie Jacobus at Barnhill and Associates Counseling Center. Your journey begins here!
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND AND VIRTUAL
Jim Jacobus
Jim Jacobus is a Certified Master Coach working with Barnhill and Associates Counseling Center. Working with select clients Jim specializes in guiding men on their individual and collective journeys.
With a background of 30+ years as a professional, trainer and consultant to America’s elite corporations, organizations and associations Jim brings a wealth of experience to his coaching role. His passion lies in helping men achieve their goals as individuals, husbands, fathers, and business professionals.
Jim’s coaching philosophy aligns with his belief that the line between personal and professional life should be thin, allowing individuals to seamlessly integrate their roles as men, husbands, fathers, and business professionals. Through his coaching, Jim empowers men to find harmony and success in all aspects of their lives.
Drawing from personal experiences, Jim understands the complexities of personal growth and relationship dynamics. His commitment to continuous learning and growth serves as a guiding principle in coaching men to navigate and thrive in their various roles.
Having taught Divorce Care for over 15 years Jim is also involved in coaching men through the challenges a divorce can bring. You will find his insights and experience a valuable tool if you are dealing with this unfortunate reality of life.
LOCATIONS: SUAGR LAND AND VIRTUAL
Jessica McDuffee, MA, LPC-A
Jessica earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University and a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health from Sam Houston State University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Ashby Simons MA, LCDC, LPC-S in the state of Texas.
While working towards her Bachelor’s degree, Jessica had the opportunity to serve with faith based organizations in prisons in Texas, Tennessee, and Georgia. This work strongly reinforced Jessica’s belief that every individual, regardless of background or identity, is created equally and deserves to be treated with unwavering respect and dignity. This inspired her to pursue a masters degree in counseling, igniting a passion within her to serve others in establishing hope, meaningful relationships, and purpose.
With clinical experience counseling adolescents (ages 10 and up), college students, and adults, Jessica’s expertise extends to areas of depression, anxiety, self-harm/suicidality, reconciliation (with self and others), and feelings of shame. She is extensively trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. In addition, Jessica enjoys incorporating expressive interventions such as sand tray and art therapy to further explore avenues of communication and processing one’s thoughts and feelings.
In working with all her clients, Jessica strives to create a trusting space for clients to grow in discovering answers, navigating emotions, and fostering hope. Together, let’s create a meaningful life by identifying and prioritizing the values, goals and relationships that matter most to you. If you're struggling with finding your place, affected by trauma, self-harm, depression, shame, or anxiety, It would be an honor to walk alongside you in your journey of healing, reclaiming joy, resilience, and wellbeing together. Take the first step – schedule a counseling appointment to start your path to healing.
LOCATIONS: THE WOODLANDS AND VIRTUAL
Colleen Paxton, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S
Colleen Paxton has a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Our Lady of the Lake University. She’s a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S) and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor.
(LPC-S). She is a doubly Certified Trauma Professional in both Clinical and Family Trauma. Colleen has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a graduate of University of Houston’s Certificate in Chemical Dependency program in UH Center for Addiction Studies. For nine years, Colleen Paxton was Director of Clinical Services for Inpatient at West Oaks Psychiatric Hospital, a 176-bed facility of children through adult patients. Colleen was on the Board of Directors for the Texas Association for Marriage and Family Therapists. She specializes in family therapy, especially with adolescents and their families, and has an extensive understanding of trauma, and its effects on the body and emotional development. She has worked with many adult patients who suffer from traumatic experiences and views the initial symptoms from a systemic view. Colleen offers support, encouragement and compassion for those who suffer from depression, anxiety, eating disorders, OCD, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. Emotional pain can heal as the pain is processed. However, we cannot change what we don’t acknowledge. Colleen also encourages the importance of making good choices which leads to a more successful life. You can always get better!
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND
Robert Rankin, MA
Robert Rankin is a native Texan, growing up in Pasadena and graduating from Texas A& M University in 1987. After a career in Insurance, he has served in Public Education since 2002 in both the classroom and the Counselor’s office. In 2019, Robert saw a growing need and followed a call to address the social and emotional needs of students and families more directly by earning a Master of Education in School Counseling from Lamar University. Since then, he has been a Professional School Counselor in a Houston area Elementary school.
Robert and his wife, Tatiana are active members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where they have led for many years in the youth group, mentoring and counseling in their local church and at events like YEC in Nashville, Tennessee and San Antonio, Texas. They love traveling and spending time in Tatiana’s native Colombia. They have three daughters, Mali, Kersty, and Bella who are all scattered around the great state of Texas. Robert and Tatiana reside in Cypress, Texas with a loveable German Shepherd named Faith.
Robert’s Christ-centered practice draws from a variety of therapy techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, ACT, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Having a wealth of experience educating children and families along with valuable knowledge of counseling and family dynamics, Robert is well-suited to clinically assist a wide range of clients including children and adolescents, marriage and families, and adults in an individual setting.
Robert strongly believes that personal healing and growth begins when we nurture relationships. We are designed to experience life through relationships. By strengthening our relationship with God, we begin to strengthen our inner selves, our families, and our communities. The blessings received as we travel together are what make life memorable and rewarding.
LOCATION: THE WOODLANDS
Sarah Lane Taylor (Lane), MA, MEd, LPC-A
Lane earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management and Ethics from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Oral Roberts University. Additionally, she earned a Master’s degree in Education from Houston Christian University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Kimberly Nemec, MA, LPC-S in the state of Texas.
For the last eight years, Lane has worked as an educator and administrator in private school settings. She is a firm believer that learning and growth is a life long process and seeks to help others on their journey of healing, primarily from a Biblical worldview. Her approach to counseling is from a cognitive-behavioral perspective with an emphasis on the understanding of Romans 12:2 (“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”).
Lane knows the importance of connecting with the right therapist, as this was a pivotal part of her life, and what ultimately led her to pursue a career in counseling. She specializes in working with individuals and families facing issues such as alcohol and drug addiction, eating disorders, self mutilation, anxiety, depression, grief / loss, and trauma. Lane has experience in individual and group counseling and works with children, adolescents and adults.
Lane has been married to her husband, Michael, since 2002 and together they have one son.
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND
Renee Trimble, MS, LPC, LCDC
Throughout Renee Trimble’s 25-year career as a medical professional, there were times she traveled a parallel journey as a counseling client. Like anyone seeking a therapist, Renee learned first-hand how difficult it can be to find the right combination of counseling attributes - that magical marriage of competence and concern that makes it easy to become truly vulnerable with our most personal life issues. Finding that safe place to share her most intimate concerns did not come easily.
Answering the heartfelt call to become a therapist, Renee was in a unique position to provide exactly the kind of counseling she had searched so long for - counseling that provides complete acceptance and respect for the client and their journey, a non-judgmental safe place for exploration and healing.
She returned to school as an adult after winning an academic scholarship from Utah State University. There, Renee graduated summa cum laude with a BS in Psychology, earning a Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling with High Honors. This, paired with her extensive field experience, gives Renee the expertise to meet a wide variety of your mental health needs.
Renee is well versed in the latest counseling sciences, such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). As a member of the National Registry of Marriage Friendly Therapists and personally committed to the institution of marriage, Renee works with clients that are motivated to strengthen their relationship.
LOCATION: RIVER OAKS
Heather Woods, LMSW
Heather Woods is a licensed counselor here at Barnhill & Associates Counseling Center. She earned a Masters of Social Work degree from the University of Houston in 1994 after graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelors of Science degree, with a concentration on communications in 1989.
It was during college that Heather first experienced the counseling profession as a client. At that time, she struggled with an eating disorder and anxiety. Thanks to great counseling by skilled and compassionate professionals, she fully recovered. Through her own experience, Heather developed a passion for sharing her experience and insights with others. Counseling for over 18 years, she’s able to meet clients where they are in their journey, equipped with a unique understanding of both sides of the counseling relationship and process.
Heather’s practice and passion have always been focused on working with children, adolescents, women, and families. Since 1996, Heather has counseled adolescents in the Harris County Juvenile Probation System, where she has worked with hundreds of troubled teens. During this time, she also continued working with women, including facilitating groups for Gari Meachum, renowned author of the book Truly Fed.
Heather is experienced and comfortable counseling on an individual basis, in a family setting, and in conducting groups. She is well-versed in a broad range of care including physical/sexual/emotional abuse, addictions, self-mutilation, anger management, depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), post-partum, self esteem issues, unresolved trauma, grief, life skills coaching and many others.
Given her personal history, Heather has a special interest in helping people of all ages to identify, to work through, and to develop healthy coping skills for life’s struggles and the feelings that accompany them.
For over twenty years, Heather has been married to the love of her life, Scott Woods. Together they have had the privilege of raising four children, now ranging from elementary to college ages.
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND
Andy Wright, MA, LPC-A
Andy earned his Master of Arts degree in Psychology from Houston Christian (formerly Houston Baptist) University in 1987 and is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A) in the state of Texas. Andy believes that every person is uniquely and wonderfully created in the image of God. His area of counseling experience includes working with adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, dementia caregiving, grief, or sexual addiction. His counseling focus is Biblically based using Christ-centered application of well-established clinical therapeutic techniques.
An avid musician, Andy sings in his church choir and plays trombone in a local variety band and in brass ensembles during Christmas and Easter seasons. He has been married to his loving wife Carolyn Turner for 11 years, and they live in Bellaire with their dogs Rudy and Riley.
LOCATION: SUGAR LAND