Austin Waters, LCPC

THERAPY
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Post Traumatic Stress

I’m originally from Emporia and spend the majority of my time here, I also enjoy traveling to spend time with family friends around the country. I also enjoy video games and movies, reading, and getting the occasional round of golf in.

A chance meeting with a career counselor opened my eyes to the vastly different ways people find value in their lives and how certain personality types fit different roles. I attended Emporia State University for Mental Health Counseling shortly after this meeting, and have been working in the field since graduating in 2015. My goal is to continue growing my knowledge in this area so that I can help others find their purpose and a meaningful life.

I enjoy working with and helping clients struggling with anxiety and depression from day to day life, sense of direction in life or lack thereof, and sense of purpose, among other things. Having spent multiple years in community mental health, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients both in age as well as diagnosis and mental health struggles.
I collaborate with clients to challenge irrational thoughts and negative thought patterns, and focus on the present to utilize personal strengths that can be helpful in making positive changes. 

Al Areheart, Life Coach

LIFE COACH
Working through obstacles and transitional issues to better days

I am a native South Carolinian, but had the privilege of living in Emporia, KS for many years. I have undergraduate and graduate degrees from Columbia International University in Columbia, SC.

My wife and I are the parents of two sons and eight grandchildren. My hobbies include anything outdoors, reading, and time with family and friends.

My pathway has always included one-on-one time with real people with real challenges. It has alway energized me to see people get better. We all face obstacles and transitional times that seem insurmountable. But I believe that the future is not static and that we can make choices that move us forward into better days—days of freedom and hope.

Roxana (Roxy) Peraza, LPC-T

THERAPY
Specialties: Children, Teens, Spanish-speaking

I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California and found myself in Emporia, Kansas upon graduating high school. I am a mother to a teenager and I really enjoy spending time with my friends, family, and dog. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, going to the gym, spending time with my loved ones, and going to concerts. I attended Emporia State University and worked as an Admissions Counselor and then decided to pursue my Masters. I earned my Masters of Science in School Counselling and found myself enjoying the part of my work that allowed me to collaborate with people through their growth and personal journeys.

I am based in the values of empathy, acceptance/non-judgment, compassion, and authenticity. Starting therapy doesn't need to have a rigid plan or agenda. Simply waiting to understand yourself or wanting to feel better is a great place to start. We all need a space where we don't feel judged and are free to explore who we are, what we want, and who we want to become. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and all backgrounds and am fluent in Spanish.

I look forward to to working with you through your mental health journey.

Darcy Keeffe, LPC

THERAPY
Specialties: Children, Teens, Families

Darcy Keeffe is a committed professional counselor who has over ten years of expertise in child counseling. Currently serving as a high school counselor, Darcy has been instrumental in guiding and supporting students through their academic, social, and emotional challenges. Darcy holds a Master's degree in School Counseling and is a licensed professional counselor.

Her empathetic approach and ability to build strong, trusting relationships with her young clients have made her a successful counselor. Throughout her career, Darcy has developed a deep understanding of the unique issues faced by children and adolescents, including anxiety, depression, peer pressure, and family dynamics.

In addition to her work with high school students, Darcy is eager to extend her services to clients of all ages. She believes that counseling is a lifelong journey and is committed to helping individuals of all backgrounds achieve mental and emotional well-being.

In her free time, Darcy loves to be outside and spend time with her family. Her two children are highly involved in sports and school activities, which keeps the entire family busy. 

Steve Blocker, Counseling Intern

I grew up in a military family and am originally from Southern California. Although I’ve had the opportunity to live in Virginia, Arizona, Missouri and Iowa I have found Emporia to be the place to raise my family and to call home.

After coaching collegiate track & field for 20 years, I have moved into counseling to continue to serve people and help others attain their best and healthiest life.

I attended the University of Northern Iowa and have a master’s degree in Exercise Science as well as multiple coaching credentials, including a USA Weightlifting level 1 certification. With over 25 years of working with athletes of different levels and sports, I have experienced first-hand the necessity of a strong mental health perspective, and the powerful relationship of human movement and mental well-being.

I work as a faculty member at Emporia State and teach classes in Health & Human Performance and Sports Leadership. I have always enjoyed working with young people and helping them through the challenges that life presents.

I enjoy doing nearly anything active and outside, and love mountain biking and strength training. My wife Erin and I have two boys, and we love spending time together with family and friends and working and living in the Emporia community.

Austin Thurman, Psychology Intern

I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, with family roots in the Wichita, Kansas area. Early in my college years, I discovered my passion for psychology through a general psychology course, which sparked my interest in understanding the human mind and mental health conditions. This experience inspired me to pursue a career in the mental health field.

I am currently pursuing a master's degree in Clinical Psychology at Emporia State University, completing my academic journey close to my family's origins. My goal is to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others and contribute positively to the community. I look forward to serving the people of Emporia.