The Ranch

Karen received an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Memphis and a Masters degree in Counseling from Southwestern College in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She later obtained her (CSAT) Certification in Sexual Addictions through Dr. Patrick Carnes and Supervision under Robert Weiss LCSW, CSAT-S. Her work as a Therapist includes areas of: Primary Chemical Dependency; Intensive Trauma Resolution; Sex / Love / and Relationship Addiction; Gender Specific Issues and Self-Harm. Karen joined the Ranch family in February 2011 to work with the Ranch team on developing a gender specific sexual disorders program. Prior to the Ranch, Karen was at the Life Healing Center, where she held multiple management and supervisory positions in the Clinical and Milieu areas for over 6 years – she assisted in the development of the first residential women’s gender separate, sex and intimacy disorder program in the country. Karen’s past career positions included: Residential and IOP facilities for Chemical Dependency and 20 years in the Financial Industry as a VP of Information Technology. Karen, a native Tennessean, is grateful to return “home” and close to her children.

Rodney Robertson has been involved in working with families for over 35 years. Rodney’s doctoral dissertation was on the subject of determining the principles that form the foundation for effective family communication. The dissertation also included an analysis of eight of the most common family communication patterns found in most family units today. In addition to his doctoral work he also has a Master of Arts degree in Human Services and a Master of Divinity degree. Rodney has operated his own private counseling practice for seven years in North Carolina focusing on the needs of families and individuals. Rodney has also provided counseling services for other community and civic organizations including churches, local school systems, and three years as the pro-bono counselor for the Miami City Ballet in Miami Florida. Rodney has been a member of the National Association of Forensic Counselors. As a member of the NAFC he was certified in the areas of Addictions, Domestic Violence, and Criminal Justice. Rodney has taught continuing education units for the NAFC on the subjects of: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; PTSD Resulting from a Criminal Act; Borderline Personality Disorder and the Impact the Disorder has Upon Criminal Activity; Emotional Regulation; Conflict Management; and Family Communication Patterns. Rodney is the proud father of three wonderful adult children and is busy chasing down ten grandchildren.

Linda is a Licensed Professional Counselor who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary/special education from Peabody College of Vanderbilt University, and a Master’s Degree in counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. Linda came to The Ranch in after working for Vanderbilt Mental Health Center for nearly 9 years, where she treated incarcerated adolescents for substance abuse, trauma, and other issues. One of her therapy passions is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), in which she is intensively trained. Linda originally hails from Kansas, although she has never met Dorothy nor seen a tornado. Linda heads The Ranch DBT consultation team.

Danielle grew up outside of Atlanta, Georgia. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia. She went on to receive her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Valdosta State University and is certified in the EAGALA equine therapy model. Danielle came to the Ranch to fill her role as an Equine Counselor, joining both her passion for therapy and helping others with her love for horses. She attributes her love of horses developed while visiting her grandmother’s California ranch as a young child. Danielle says, “Many people work and never get a chance to do what they love. At The Ranch, I am fortunate to combine my professional goals with the powerful and honest horse who creates space to be our true, unique selves.”

James Nihan is a licensed alcohol and drug addiction counselor and an associate sex addiction therapist. He has been associated with The Ranch since 2000 and he has been involved with the Center for Relationship and Sexual Recovery since its inception. His personal recovery began in 1975 and in 1980 his story was featured in a book published by the Rutger’s Center of Alcohol Studies. Special interests include healing through music and art, The Four Agreements and meaning of metaphor. With extensive studies in spirituality he supports those who seek connection through medicine wheel, labyrinth and the native ancestral landscapes that have become The Ranch. Working with clients who have adoption and abandonment histories is close to his heart. Of the creative process, James asserts, “Each one of us is an artist and each day we are given an opportunity to create. I think of life as a canvas and each day a brushstroke.” An award-winning songwriter and artist, his personal experience gives him an understanding of the unique recovery challenges faced by clients within the entertainment industries.

Tommy Williams is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor including a strong clinical and 12-step background with a heart to help others embrace effective change and learn new skills. Since 2004 he has delivered care to those suffering from addiction and behavioral health disorders. Tommy has worked as an Intensive Outpatient Counselor and Family Counselor at Cumberland Heights and for Tennessee Prison for Women Therapeutic Community. He is an apt presenter and appreciates the opportunity to teach concepts useful for lasting recovery, such as: Boundaries; Relapse Prevention; Shame and Addiction; Spirituality. Tommy also is trained in role-playing, ropes/challenge course, labyrinth walk and many others. His diverse set of clinical skills fit right into The Ranch team approach.