Get to know Naomi

My name is Naomi Norton, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Missouri (2018045008) and a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Kansas (2864). I am an Approved Supervisor through the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). I have a Ph.D. in Family Therapy from Northcentral University; my research focused on the conceptualization of mental illness by the white fundamentalist evangelical Christian community. I currently working on publishing the White American fundamentalist evangelical cultural Power and Control Wheel inspired by the Duluth Model.

(Article in the "Professional Work" Tab under "About").

I have worked in various capacities in the mental health field for almost a decade. Working with teenagers and families within a psychiatric hospital encouraged me to pursue further education to obtain a family therapy degree. Upon graduating, I worked within child welfare, providing intensive in-home therapy; these professional experiences have allowed me many opportunities with many people who deal with various issues. I have used my knowledge to help others impacted by cultural, contextual, and systemic struggles, for which I am incredibly grateful! I began my therapy practice in Kansas City in 2016, providing in-home therapy for individuals and families who struggle with various disabilities, personality disorders, severe mental illnesses, and religious trauma.

During my education and professional journey, I have obtained certification in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, I am passionate about supporting individuals with religious trauma and/or who have experienced adverse religious experiences (AREs), spiritual/religious/church abuse, and faith deconstruction.

When I'm not at my office (and not writing!), you can find me at a local bookstore or a coffee shop. I enjoy music, cooking, reading, writing, meditation, and spending time with family and friends.

Get to know Timeka O’Neal (MA, MS, MFT Intern)

Aspiring Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Kansas City, MO

Timeka O'Neal is a dedicated and empathetic therapist with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate life’s most challenging emotional and psychological experiences. With a specialized focus on Marriage and Family Therapy, Timeka’s therapeutic approach emphasizes building strong, trusting relationships with her clients. She integrates evidence-based techniques with a client-centered philosophy, believing true healing stems from an authentic, collaborative therapeutic environment.

Timeka has a broad range of clinical experience, from inpatient psychiatric care to working one-on-one with clients on the autism spectrum. Her ability to create safe, non-judgmental spaces allows clients to confidently explore their thoughts and feelings, making her an effective guide in their journeys toward self-discovery, emotional resilience, and personal growth. Her holistic therapeutic style incorporates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems theory, and mindfulness practices, all tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients.

Throughout her career, Timeka has worked with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, and other complex mental health issues. Her expertise extends to crisis intervention, where she has demonstrated a remarkable capacity to help clients navigate emotional distress and regain stability. As a Lead Therapist at Signature Psychiatric Hospital, she was instrumental in developing personalized treatment plans and facilitating group and individual therapy sessions long-term change.

Timeka’s clinical expertise is complemented by her strong academic background. She holds a Master of Science in Psychology from Capella University (graduating Magna Cum Laude) and is completing her Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at Northcentral University, where she made the Dean’s List. She has a deep commitment to continuous learning and professional development, with certifications in autism support and behavioral interventions.

In therapy, Timeka is known for her exceptional listening skills, empathy, and ability to meet clients where they are. She is particularly passionate about working with families to strengthen communication and resolve conflict, guiding them toward healthier, more meaningful connections. As she continues her path toward LMFT licensure, she remains driven by her mission to support and empower her clients to live more fulfilling, balanced lives.

When Timeka is not working, you can find her listening to music, reading, working out, shopping, creating vision boards, and spending time with her family and friends.