CEO

Hello, I’m Jill, a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) and CEO at Nebraska Mental Health Centers.

I graduated with a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology-Community Counseling from the University of Nebraska in 2005. I began my career as a therapist at NMHC before serving as Treatment Coordinator at Excelsior Youth Centers (a residential treatment center), in Aurora, Colorado, and later, as Director of Outpatient Treatment at Pediatric Psychology Associates in Beatrice, Nebraska.

As owner and CEO of Nebraska Mental Health Centers, I wear a lot of hats. I oversee day-to-day operations and supervise both provisionally-licensed providers and Master’s-level practicum students. My areas of specialization include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal relationships and healthy communications, PTSD, and general mental health services surrounding issues of depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I have specific expertise in assessing and treating adolescent females and young women with severe symptoms including traumatic histories such as domestic violence, abuse and sexual offense victims. I am also certified in Parent Child Interaction Training (PCIT), as well as a Within Agency Trainer for this modality.

I’m a Nebraska native who hails from Beatrice and has also spent time in Miami, Florida and Denver, Colorado. I currently reside in Lincoln with my husband and two daughters.

TRAINING DIRECTOR, LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST

Hi, I’m Dr. Melissa Lafferty. I’m a Nebraska native and I’ve been working at NMHC since 2015.  I earned my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in English and Psychology in Secondary Education and became licensed as a school teacher for five years.  I taught High School at an inner-city school in Houston, Texas.  While teaching in Houston provided me with an incredible life experience, I discovered that my true passion was in the field of psychology and returned to graduate school. 

I graduated from Walden University with a Master’s degree and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. While obtaining my doctorate degree, I graduated from NMHC’s Psychology Internship Program, and following completion of my degree I stayed on for NMHC Residency Program as part of my training. I focus my services within the Lincoln and Beatrice office sites. As a generalist provider, I have experience conducting psychological, psychoeducational, social security disability, and court-ordered evaluations and have worked with ages across the lifespan.  I am particularly passionate about working within systems, such as schools and preschools, passionate about working with women that have chronic health issues, and have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and families. I also provide and coordinate NMHC-provided services for Beatrice Public Schools Special Education. I also serve as a mental health provider/consultant with the Blue Valley Community Action Partnership that provides Head Start services and Early Intervention Services for Southeast Nebraska.

I co-supervise our Parent Child Interaction Training (PCIT) training program and am certified to provide this specialized intervention with the Standard protocol as well as the Older Child protocol in PCIT. At present, I’m currently in training for the PCIT Toddler protocol. I serve as a member of the Training Committee, a supervisor, facilitate the weekly Early Career Supervision group and conduct clinical professional and psychometric assessment didactic trainings.

STAFF PSYCHOLOGIST

I’m a clinical psychologist with a generalist background, but I especially enjoy working with adolescent and adult women who are navigating trauma, identity development, and major life transitions. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling from Pacific University in Oregon and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Much of my work focuses on psychological assessment for diagnostic clarification, and I have a strong interest in forensic evaluations. I frequently collaborate with court systems, legal professionals, and social service agencies to support individuals involved in complex systems.

My therapeutic style is trauma-informed, gender- and LGBTQIA+-affirming, and grounded in a humanistic and interpersonal approach. I’m primarily process-oriented in therapy but often integrate CBT and DBT skills to support emotional growth and daily functioning.

In addition to clinical work, I’m actively involved in training early-career providers through our agency’s training program. I serve on the Nebraska Psychological Association’s Legislative Committee, where I advocate for policies that promote accessible, quality mental health care—an area I’m deeply passionate about in addition to fighting for equality and human rights.

Although I’m originally from Portland, Oregon, I’ve lived in several states before settling in Lincoln, Nebraska for my internship at NMHC—and I never left. I’m an animal lover, and my dog Stella often joins me in the office to offer comforting snuggles and kisses. In my free time, I enjoy binge-watching true crime, spending time with friends, taking little excursions and exploring local food scenes. If you see me, I will likely have my dog and an iced coffee in hand!

PSYCHOLOGY RESIDENT

My name is Josh Magold, and I’m a post-doctoral resident with a broad range of clinical experience spanning individual, family, and group therapy. I’ve worked in diverse settings providing services such as school and office based therapy, competency therapy, and behavioral support, and I’m committed to meeting the unique needs of clients from all ages and backgrounds. I have a particular passion for trauma-informed care, behavioral/emotional management in adolescents and teenagers, mindfulness and meditation practices, grief support, and assisting with the management of personality disorders. I value creativity in the therapeutic process and often incorporate clients’ personal interests into my interventions to build connection and promote healing. In addition to psychotherapy, I have experience in neuropsychological assessments, probation and parenting evaluations, and hold a strong clinical interest in the use and effectiveness of projective psychological assessments as tools for understanding clients’ inner worlds.

Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy spending time with my two beloved pugs, unwinding with video games, and researching extreme weather occurring in the US at any given moment (weather is my second passion).

PSYCHOLOGY RESIDENT

Hi there, I’m C.C. (she/her), a native Iowan and graduate of NMHC’s Psychology Internship Program, now enrolled in NMHC’s Psychology Residency Program. I have a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology and will soon receive my doctorate from Adler University in Chicago. I previously obtained a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from Walden University.

My therapeutic approach is centered on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions openly. I have a passion for providing mental health services to individuals across the lifespan and have experience working with a variety of presentations, including predominately, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, Autism, and OCD.

I really enjoy spending my free time with my two pugs, painting, and being with friends and family.

DIRECTOR OF RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAM, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF INTERNSHIP TRAINING

My name is Dr. Lee Zlomke, a Nebraska native, and a licensed psychologist. I received my doctorate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and have 35-plus years of experience in the provision of psychological services, as well as professional leadership and training.

I specialize in behavioral psychology and interventions for a wide array of clinical presentations and have a specialty in child/family, developmental, forensic, and school psychology. I’ve provided clinical direction and special consultations for numerous agencies regarding individuals with severe and persistent mental illness and persons with developmental disabilities. I was the original Director of NMHC’s Psychology Internship Training Program, and now serve as the Associate Director of the program under its current Director, Dr. Melissa Lafferty. I continue to serve as the Director of the NMHC Psychology Resident Program.

I also founded and serve as the CEO of Pediatric Psychology Associates, a private psychology practice.

STAFF THERAPIST

I’m Jamie Monfelt, a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner with a passion for community mental health and clinical practice. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in

Psychology from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln and a master’s degree in Counseling from Doane College.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working within the Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice systems. I’ve also served as the Director of Child Welfare Services, where I contributed to the development and delivery of services. Additionally, I’ve been honored to serve on two governor-appointed committees: the Commission for the Protection of Children and the Women’s Health

Initiative Council, both of which allowed me to contribute to shaping policies that improve the safety and well-being of our communities.

Currently, I serve as the Rural Services Coordinator for NMHC, where I work to promote the organization within rural communities. This involves collaborating with rural referral sources, attending community meetings focused on mental health service development, and providing training on rural mental health. I also supervise clinical staff in rural areas, ensuring they have the support they need to provide high-quality care.

In addition to my work at NMHC, I am the co-chair for the Nebraska Counseling Association, where I collaborate with other professionals to advance the counseling profession and support counselors throughout the state. I’m also a Provisionally Certified Disordered Gambling Counselor (PCDGC), which allows me to offer specialized support to individuals struggling with gambling issues.

I specialize in helping individuals and families with complex, multi-systemic challenges, including severe and persistent mental illness, developmental/intellectual disabilities, and substance use disorders. I’m deeply committed to assessing function, identifying risk, and teaching therapeutic interventions to other providers, students, and community members.

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing volleyball, jogging, and chasing sunsets.

STAFF THERAPIST

Hi, I’m Amanda Dieckgrafe, a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner based in Lincoln, Nebraska. I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University (Washington, D.C. metro), and I’ve been practicing at Nebraska Mental Health Centers since 2021. 

Before becoming a therapist, I spent eight years teaching elementary and middle school art and music. That experience continues to shape how I connect with children, adolescents, families, and adults—whether through creativity, conversation, or quiet reflection, I aim to meet each client exactly where they are. 

My approach is integrative and rooted in a humanistic, client-centered philosophy. I believe every person has the capacity for growth, healing, and deeper connection—within themselves and in their relationships. I draw from evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and trauma-informed care, tailoring each treatment to fit the client’s unique needs. I’m trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and hold a Trauma Level 2 Certification, with clinical experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, life transitions, and relational challenges. 

For those who seek a faith-integrated approach, I also offer the option to incorporate spiritual perspectives into the therapeutic process.

My journey into this work began with my own. The transformative experience of being seen, heard, and understood in therapy inspired me to create that same space for others. I’m especially passionate about working with individuals and couples who are seeking to grow in self-awareness, confidence, and emotional clarity—people who long for more meaningful, fulfilling relationships with themselves and others. 

Above all, I value authenticity, empathy, curiosity, and honesty. I show up as a real person in the room—and I invite you to do the same. My hope is that our work together leaves you not only with practical tools but with a deeper sense of who you are: more grounded, more connected, and more attuned to what is true, good, and beautiful in your life.

Amanda enjoys spending time with her large family, playing the piano, bike rides and bonfires. She also enjoys card games, road trips, cooking and baking. Amanda looks forward to serving the community and meeting new people.

STAFF THERAPIST

I welcome all individuals, couples, or children who are looking for support! Being from rural Nebraska, I have a passion for providing mental health services to populations that are underserved. I have experience working with individuals who are struggling with substance use challenges, anxiety, depression, life changes, relationship conflict, college-age students, trauma and those who are neurodivergent. I view therapy as a collaborative experience and through understanding, acceptance, and exploration we can work to build a sustainable and enjoyable way of living. I completed my training through the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Master’s in clinical mental health counseling.

In my free time I enjoy reading, going on walks, painting, and spending time with my furry feline.

STAFF THERAPIST

I enjoy working with clients looking for meaningful change in their lives. I have experience with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, personality disorders, helping families with Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

My approach is to help you make the best decisions for yourself and help you find the person you want to be, accomplished through mutual exploration and understanding of patterns, problems, and solutions.

STAFF THERAPIST

I graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work and a Bachelor of Science in Journalism, New Editorial. After that, I earned a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Management at Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja (UTPL) in Quito-Ecuador, and at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) with a Master’s in Clinical Social Work. I’ve practiced in the state of Florida and Nebraska.

I really enjoy learning languages and I am a native Spanish speaker, bilingual in English, and conversational in French. Originally from the Middle of the World, Quito, Ecuador, South America, I appreciate traditions and culture, and that includes those here in the U.S. I am experiences as an outpatient therapist with nonprofit services and private practice, doing work with families, couples, adolescents, and children. 

My work focuses on aiming you toward a joyful, rewarding path in life and strengthening the therapeutic rapport while we work on the healing process. My commitment to you is to honor where you are, as well as encourage you to do the work to get to your goals.

I enjoy spending time with my family, listening to world music, traveling, and dancing.

STAFF THERAPIST

Hi, my name is Anne and I’m dually credentialed as an LIMHP and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). I received my Bachelor of Science degree with minors in Sociology and Anthropology from Nebraska Wesleyan University, and my Master of Arts in Counseling from Doane College in 2008. I’ve worked in direct care as a family support worker at Visinet, Inc., and as a Psychiatric Tech at Lincoln Regional Center prior to obtaining my licensure.

I’m a feline enthusiast and also enjoy all the flora and fauna I can, as evidenced by the time I spend outdoors in my yard at home and all the plants in my office!

Hi, I’m Caroline Cortés Babilonia! I am a Doctoral Candidate in Clinical Psychology at Albizu University in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and currently a Psychology Intern at Nebraska Mental Health Centers (NMHC). My dissertation focuses on designing a transition program to support autistic young adults in Puerto Rico as they pursue employment, education, and independent community living.

 I am PEERS-certified to work with adolescents, and my clinical interests focus on children, adolescents, and young adults. I am especially passionate about empowering parents to strengthen their role as positive models in their children’s development. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and incorporates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles, as well as strengths-based and collaborative strategies to meet the unique needs of each client.

A fun fact about me: I’m a saxophonist, a passionate foodie, and a beginner pickleball player!

I am a doctoral intern and earned my Master’s degree in Professional Psychology from William James College in Boston, where I am also completing my Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Children and Families of Adversity and Resilience. I have trained in a variety of settings, including community clinics, residential treatment facilities, hospitals, and integrated primary care. I have worked with clients across the lifespan and have particular interests in supporting adolescents and transition-aged youth experiencing depression, anxiety, and co-occurring medical conditions.

My therapeutic approach is eclectic and draws from relational psychodynamic and third-wave cognitive-behavioral interventions, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I emphasize collaboration and tailoring treatment to individual needs, while also valuing interdisciplinary teamwork and the integration of behavioral health into medical care.

 A fun fact about me is that I like staying active with hot yoga and relaxing with jigsaw puzzles.

I am joining the NMHC team as a psychology intern from the beautiful state of Maryland. Currently completing my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Fielding Graduate University, I hold Master's Degrees in Clinical Psychology, Biomedical Science, and Biology. I enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan, though I am particularly passionate about supporting children, teens, and young adults. I have worked extensively with Autistic and ADHD clients, providing support around the neurodivergent experience, including helping neurodivergent adults navigate the unique challenges of late- and/or self-identification. I am experienced in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and gender-diverse individuals, bringing an awareness of intersectionality to the provision of supportive and affirming care. I also conduct neurodiversity-affirmative, strengths-based assessments with individuals of all ages.

In my work, I focus on building a supportive, empathic, and affirmative therapeutic relationship with every client. My aim in therapy is to work with each individual’s strengths, explore identity and relationships, and cultivate self-awareness to encourage growth and support clients in reaching their therapeutic goals. I utilize an integrative, trauma-informed, and neurodiversity-affirming approach to therapy, tailoring therapy to meet each individual’s unique needs. Trained in CBT, I also frequently utilize ACT, emotion-focused, narrative, interpersonal, and play therapy approaches in my work. My professional interests include neurodiversity, sleep psychology, and pediatric neuropsychology.

In my free time, I enjoy painting, doing puzzles, drawing, watching hockey, and napping with my cats.

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Business from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and I’ve been passionate about this work ever since. I have over seven years of experience supporting and coordinating mental health services, particularly for court-involved individuals.

In my role, I oversee the day-to-day operations of our administrative office, manage billing and credentialing, and help ensure that our team runs smoothly and efficiently. I enjoy being the go-to person for problem-solving and finding creative, practical solutions to everyday challenges.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes, digging in the garden, or road-tripping to explore national parks.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Hi, my name’s Thomas McPherson (he/him) and I manage the practice’s public relations and marketing activities. I also try to keep computers running, the plumbing unclogged, and the light bulbs glowing.

I graduated from Metropolitan State College (now Metropolitan State University) in Denver, Colorado with a B.A. in English with minors in History and Journalism. I moved to Nebraska in 2010, and obtained a certification in Technical Writing, also from Metro State. When I’m not at work or tending to fatherly duties I busy myself with gardening or yard work. I really enjoy art and graphic design, and if something’s geeky chances are I’m a fan.

CLIENT CARE COORDINATOR

Hello! I’m originally from St. Louis, Missouri, and I recently earned my B.A. in Psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. As a Client Care Coordinator, I’m dedicated to fostering strong relationships and ensuring each client feels supported and valued. I bring a warm, thoughtful approach to my role and am excited to contribute to a collaborative and client-centered team environment. Outside of work, I enjoy reading mystery and thriller books, cooking, traveling to new places (especially the beach), and spending time with friends and family.

CLIENT CARE COORDINATOR

I'm originally from Idaho Falls and graduated with a degree in Biology from the University of Nebraska, with a minor in Biochemistry. I currently work part-time as a Client Care Coordinator at NMHC. Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors—whether it's camping, biking, or exploring new places. I'm also in the process of applying to medical schools, with the goal of advancing my career in healthcare. In addition to my professional and academic pursuits, I enjoy volunteering at the VA and am a proud dog owner to two active pups, Macaroni and Zeus.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner who began working for NMHC in December 2001. I specialize in services for seniors and faith-based treatment. I graduated in May 2000 with a Master of Arts from Grace University, and have been an independent contractor working with NMHC for several years focusing primarily on in-home therapy.

PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER

I’m a Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has provided behavioral health services to incarcerated individuals, chronically mentally ill adults and mentally challenged individuals in the community since 2008. I joined NMHC in 2014 and provide medication management services as well as psychiatric evaluations of individuals.

I am an experienced therapist and graduate of Doane College in Crete, Nebraska. I’m an independent contractor working with NMHC primarily providing services to adults and couples. My husband and I are the parents of two young boys.

Wendy is a graduate of NMHC’s Psychology Internship Program.

CONSULTANT PSYCHOLOGIST

CONSULTANT PSYCHOLOGIST