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!
ben suggs
Hi! My name is Ben Suggs, and I am an Intern with Heritage Institute. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Christian Studies from Anderson University in 2022, and I am currently working towards my Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with Liberty University. I am a Greenville native, and I have a big heart for the people of this city. I am open to clients of any background, but I have an inclination to want to help those who are suffering from addiction/the effects of it, as well as those going through periods of grieving. If you fit into one of those categories, please reach out! I believe that it is my goal to love others with all my heart, and foster community through love. With counseling I want to help others learn how to love themselves so that they can in turn, love those around them.
karen burchett
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.
sherry garnett
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.
