An energetic, dedicated social worker with over 20 years of extensive experience in mental health, behavioral health, program management, and clinical supervision. My work experience ranges from youth to adults, including behavioral health therapy and case management, school-based programming, day treatment, hospital social work, and experience with Veterans and special populations. Throughout my career, I have participated in program development, direct care, as well as supervisory and management positions. I have a passion for serving others, the drive to grow people and programs, and a heart of compassion for our youth through the young adult population, as well as a passion for the field of social work.

Therapeutic Style:

I am a person-centered therapist at my core. I believe it is vital to provide an atmosphere of unconditional positive regard, empathic understanding, and genuineness (authenticity) for each person that I am fortunate to work with. I also believe exercising cultural humility is important in keeping the needs of the person as well as the respect of their psychosocial background at the forefront, to assist them through the process of therapeutic change.

Professional Interests:

My professional interests include optimal psychosocial well-being of African-Americans; areas/issues related to college students; populations of ethnic origin; at-risk/developmental youth and families; social advocacy and juvenile justice; the promotion and prevention of mental health disparities through interventions aimed at building resilience (GRIT) with ethnic minority youth; Group Processes; Diversity/Cultural Humility Issues.

Educational Background:

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science-Kinesiology from Arkansas State University. I earned my master’s degree and Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Tennessee State University (TSU), Nashville, TN. Interesting to note, TSU is one of two public Historically Black Colleges and Universities to house an American Psychological Association (APA) program in Counseling Psychology. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at Counseling and Wellness Services within the School of Professional Psychology at Wright State University.

Personal Interests:

My immediate family is my main personal interest. I enjoy simply being in their presence and being an integral part in helping my children flourish. I enjoy reading, catching up with family members, and intentionally emitting positive energy into the world.

Heather M. Hughes is an advanced practice nurse who is board-certified as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (APRN, PMHNP-BC). She received her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and her bachelor’s degree from Fortis College of Nursing. She is certified through the American Nursing Credential Center. She has over seventeen years of nursing experience in various medical settings. She has a passion for walking alongside individuals who struggle with mental health disorders.

Vonciel is committed to helping individuals find their purpose and supporting them through life's challenges. As an Operations Consultant and owner of Perfect English Development Solutions LLC, Vonciel has over 25 years of professional experience. She has facilitated the opening and start-up operations for organizations in the retail, gaming, and hospitality industries. Throughout her career, she has trained hundreds of employees, mentored clients in recovery, and helped many individuals overcome barriers.

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Vonciel believes that resilience is the key to wellness, and that with faith, anything is possible! Her unique skill set includes human resources, nonprofit case management, workforce development, adult education, and healthcare administration. She received her Master's degree in Human Resource Management from Indiana Wesleyan University and her Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management and Entrepreneurship from Central State University.

I’m Zacha I. Torres-Serrano, a licensed social worker with a strong passion for working with children and families in community settings. I advocate for social justice and serve as a voice and a driver for change, striving to support those in need. I thrive in collaborative environments and enjoy partnering with individuals and organizations that are dedicated to making a positive impact on populations requiring support.

I earned my bachelor's in social work from Wright State University and my master's in social work with a focus on child and adolescent trauma from Simmons University. I’ve been in Ohio since 2012 and consider it my home. I’m working toward achieving my independent licensure to further my development and better serve my community. Professional Growth is always my priority.

Child and Adolescent, Aging/Geriatrics, Depression and Anxiety, ADHD, Cultural Issues, Mood Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Adjustment Disorders, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavior Modification, Parenting Education, School Problems, Stress Management, Sexual Abuse Victim, Social Skills Training, Victims of Trauma, Family Issues, Grief Counseling/Bereavement & Women’s Issues. 

Monica is a licensed social worker and received her MSW degree from Walden University. Bachelor degree from Ashford University and was awarded Cum Laude. Monica has worked in the mental health field for over 24 years with a wealth of experience in child and adolescence, adults in various settings, school-based therapy, DD services, and Geriatrics. Working with a wide range of diagnosis from ADHD, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, PTSD, and Trauma. Works well with issues with relationships, family unit dynamics, and stressful life events. 
I utilize a client -centered approach which places the significant focus on the client. I like to create an atmosphere where the client can communicate their feelings with certainty that they are being understood rather than judged. I have experience in a variety of techniques and theories of practice such as; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Mindfulness techniques, Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. 
I am passionate about helping others and focus on assisting, serving, counseling, or teaching other people. I am a compassionate empathetic clinician who helps those that seek services. I want to help foster individuals with developing healthy and productive relationships and managing lives concerns. 

“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.”

Fred Rogers

I am Jessica Mowen, the Registration and Office Support Specialist here at Wellness and Resilience Center. My role in the office is to help guide our clients through the intake process, along with scheduling and billing.  I’m always happy and excited to meet our clients and get them connected with the right provider for them. 

I’ve lived here in Dayton, Ohio, my entire life and graduated from Wright State University with a bachelor's degree in fine arts. As a mother of three and a firm believer that positive self-care and good mental health is a necessity for a successful and happy life, I’m honored to be a part of the Wellness and Resilience Center family. I’m inspired by the work we do here, uplifting and strengthening our community and its children.

I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from Cornerstone University in May 2025 and bring hands-on experience working with children ages 6–18. My early work includes serving two summers as a camp counselor, where I supported youth in building friendships, managing emotions, and having fun. During my year-long internship at the Boys & Girls Club, I ran the “Cool Down Corner,” worked alongside a diverse team, and co-led many activities with the MSW intern while providing one-on-one support to kids who were experiencing big emotions or just needed someone to listen.

I’ve always been drawn to working with children and find joy in helping them grow, thrive, and discover their own resilience. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, I recently relocated to Dayton, Ohio, and I’m slowly falling in love with the charm of this “small town.” I’m excited to bring my passion and energy to my role as a Child Development Specialist with the Wellness & Resilience Center.

Outside of work, I enjoy creative outlets such as photography and drawing, as well as spending time with friends and going on spontaneous mini-adventures.

I am Natosha Jones, a committed and passionate Community Health Worker. My journey has been fueled by a deep commitment to fostering community wellness and supporting families. My role has consistently been centered around providing essential resources, building robust relationships with partnering organizations, and delivering impactful presentations that drive positive change. I am enthusiastic about leveraging my diverse experiences to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of people and the broader community. 

Hello, I have over 27 years of experience as a dedicated advocate, supporting communities by connecting individuals and families to vital resources and services that promote success, education, and self-sufficiency. I have also served as a liaison, assisting with Medicaid applications and guiding clients through the process with care and efficiency, while contributing to the overall safety and well-being of the public.