Graduate level interns

Jaret Phillips

Hi there! My name is Jaret Phillips, and I am a recent counseling intern at Heritage Institute. I originally received my Bachelor’s degree from Furman University, double majoring in History and Political Science. I am now currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wake Forest University, and am excited about beginning my journey in the mental health profession.

Counseling, at its core, is a deeply humane profession, a profession that prides itself on helping others towards wellness, growth, and overall purpose. That being said, my viewpoint strongly aligns with person-centered approaches, specifically a Rogerian mindset that functions to create greater self-awareness within the individual, and, in turn, fostering a growth-mindset! Whatever it is holding you down, I am confident that we can work together to understand the best approach. I enjoy working with all population groups and would love the opportunity to get to know you! I hope you will consider me on your journey towards self-fulfillment!

Ashley Heath

Hi! My name is Ashley Heath, and I am a graduate counseling intern at Heritage Institute. I graduated from Clemson University in 2011 with a degree in Elementary Education and spent 12 years working in the public school system as a teacher and school counselor. Currently I am pursuing a Masters in Clinical Mental Health from Walden University on my journey to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. 

I have a passion for helping hurting people. My personal journey of post-traumatic growth has given me a desire to help others in recovery from trauma and abuse. I work with all populations, with a special emphasis on children and play therapy. My approach is person-centered through a trauma lens. I believe hope and healing are possible for all people, and I strive to support clients as they learn to live freely and authentically.

Savannah Bivens

Hey! My name is Savannah Bivens and I am a MFT intern at Heritage Institute. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in child advocacy from the University of South Carolina Upstate. I am currently pursuing my graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from National University. While my specialization is in couple’s therapy, I am also passionate about helping individuals as well. I am especially interested in those that just feel stuck, down, or simply need guidance. I will do my best to make you feel at ease sharing your story and am welcoming to working with a diverse population. I am extremely excited to be on this journey and am compassionate to get to know every individual, couple and/or family that walks through my door. I want to help you achieve your goals in order for you to enjoy the life you deserve! You are the start of your happiness, so let’s get started!

Ashley johnson

The imperfections of life cause us to feel uncertain, overwhelmed, scared, sad, or angry. We might even feel a combination of these emotions sometimes, leading us to act in unhealthy ways or think that we are sinking into quicksand. We feel powerless because we do not know where to turn or what to do. 

As a graduate student currently pursuing a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Liberty University, I am consistently being drawn to cognitive behavioral therapy because I see the correlations among how we think, feel, and act. As a counselor intern with Heritage Institute, I eagerly await meeting you so that we can learn together what specific tools point you toward reclaiming your power. Above all, I want you to know that I am here for you. You do not have to go through this alone.  

karen burchett

Sometimes life does not turn out the way we envisioned or planned it would. Relationships fail, leaving us to feel confused, alone, misunderstood, and hurt. Making sense of experiences and the emotions that accompany them can be difficult to navigate through. Sometimes we feel stuck and do not know which way to go, or we can create habits and behaviors that are not how we truly want to live.

I am Karen Burchett, a student-intern and graduate student at Liberty University studying Clinical Mental Health. I am passionate about helping individuals to live an authentic life. My personal journey through emotional and spiritual trauma has given me the desire to help others sift through the confusion and perplexities that can cause individuals to become stuck in undesirable feelings and situations. I believe each of us deserves to live our best life now, and that hope, peace, and healing is possible for everyone.

sherry garnett

SHAQUELAH WALTERS

Prioritizing your overall well-being whether it be spiritually, mentally, and/or emotionally is significant and deserves intentional focus. Embarking on the journey toward healing, change, and growth can be challenging, yet a worthy step, and I congratulate you for taking it! 

I am Shaquelah Walters, a Graduate Counseling Intern at Heritage Institute. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Coastal Carolina University and have been ordained as a Minister. I am passionate about serving individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life.

My counseling approach centers on providing a non-judgmental space where individuals can authentically be themselves. I believe that with the right tools and a willingness to engage, meaningful change is achievable. I am dedicated to supporting those who are seeking their life’s purpose, experiencing feelings of brokenness, or who have felt unheard or unseen. My goal is to offer a safe place to explore your true self, provide encouragement, and practical tools to help you towards enjoying a fulfilling life with purpose. There is no better time to get started than right now, let's do this together! I look forward to the opportunity to work with you!

KATY BUCHANAN

At Heritage Institute, I’m currently a Marriage and Family Therapy intern while finishing my degree at Montreat College. I’m in the process of earning my Master of Science in Counseling with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy, and I’ll be graduating in 2026.

I’ve always had a deep passion for helping people through tough times and truly believe in the power of walking alongside someone as they navigate life’s challenges. Whether you're facing a difficult relationship, working through personal struggles, or just looking for support, I’m here for you. I’m genuinely excited to be part of your healing journey and can’t wait to connect as we work together toward growth and transformation.

SHEA HENDRICKS

Brittany roberts

Hi! I am Brittany Roberts, a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern at the Heritage Institute. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from Appalachian State University with a minor in sociology. I am pursuing my graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University.

While my specialization is working with children and adolescents, I am passionate about working with people of all ages. I believe that therapy can help everyone, whether you see your problems as big or small, and that everyone has the potential to reach their goals with the proper support. I look forward to meeting you and seeing what we can accomplish together!