Bio coming soon.

Natalie Whitehead holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia and a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Argosy University. Natalie completed her Master's Internship at the Anna Crawford Children's Center in Woodstock where she worked with children and adolescents in suspected cases of child abuse. Natalie is a member of the Association for Play Therapy and the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association. Natalie has successfully completed Forensic Interviewing Training at the National Children's Advocacy Center in Huntsville, AL. 

Catalin Simpson is our intern counselor at the Appalachian Children's Center. She holds a BA in Psychology and is in her final semester at Georgia State University completing work on her Master's in Professional Counseling. Catalin has five years of experience working in a child and adolescent residential treatment center. Her passion is working with children while providing a safe, therapeutic environment. After graduation in May, Catalin hopes to work with children and adolescents and their families. She also intends to obtain her Registered Play Therapist certificate in an effort to provide the best possible therapy for children.

Pat Rickman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her degree in Social Work from the University of Georgia . Pat has over 35 years of experience working with children and youth. She has worked with youth in detention and is a retired school social worker from Cobb County Schools where she continues to provide contract work as needed. Pat is also an adjunct professor at Kennesaw State University where she teaches for both the undergraduate and the Master's in Social Work programs. She is working with the Appalachian Children's Center as a clinical coordinator where she sees clients and provides supervision for the clinical staff and interns.

Vicki Benefield, Grant Director

Vicki is a self employed, professional grant writer.  She has extensive experience in the field of grants from government to the private sector.  Vicki previously worked as Development Director for the Anna Crawford Children's Center in Cherokee County and was responsible for all grant and fund raising operations.  She went on to open the first Congressional Office in Cherokee County and worked as a Field Representative for Congressman John Linder.  Vicki is a graduate of the Leadership Class of 2000, served on the Chamber Connection for five years, and three years on the Leadership Steering Committee.  Vicki currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Sequoyah Regional Library System and Sequoyah Public Library Board, Cherokee County Sheriff's Foundation, Cherokee County DUI/Drug Court , and Sheriff Roger Garrison Charities Foundation.