Meet Layana Sariah, a Drake University graduate with a B.S in psychology and a minor in neuroscience. Layana is a current Masters of Counseling student at Avila University. Layana has a passion for working with children and teens and she continues her work by supporting families in the community through working as a case manager. Her background has been focused on individuals with trauma backgrounds and behavior challenges. She is committed to making a positive impact in the field of psychology and counseling and serving minority communities and their allies. Contact us to schedule a virtual 45 minute session with Layana!

Hello! I’m Jo Anna White, and I am delighted to share my journey with you. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, complemented by a minor in Women’s Studies, from Avila University, where I am also pursuing my Master’s in Counseling. With over a decade of experience in healthcare, I have cultivated a deep passion for helping others and a steadfast commitment to delivering compassionate, client-centered care. I have a special interest in working with older adults (seniors 65+) in the Kansas City metropolitan area, and I am particularly dedicated to providing grief support to those navigating the challenges of loss. My approach is to offer individualized care that is both supportive and empowering, fostering positive growth and acceptance in every client I serve. I look forward to the opportunity to connect with individuals in my community and to support you on your journey toward mental wellness. Together, we can create a safe and nurturing environment for healing and personal development, especially during times of grief and transition.

I’m excited to offer virtual telehealth sessions for your convenience! This way, you can receive support from the comfort and privacy of your own home, or any quiet space in Missouri that feels right for you. All you need is a stable internet connection, and we can connect in a way that suits your needs. I look forward to meeting you where you are!

Susan Meyer is a Counseling Psychology Intern at Ember & Bloom Therapy in Kansas City, where she provides trauma-informed, client-centered counseling with warmth and respect. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Lincoln University of Missouri and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Counseling Psychology at the University of Kansas, focusing on Positive Psychotherapy and Multicultural Counseling.

Susan is passionate about reducing mental health stigma and expanding access to culturally responsive care for underserved communities. She works with individuals navigating trauma, family dynamics, personality disorders, and identity development, drawing from DBT, Positive Psychotherapy, and strengths-based approaches.

At Ember & Bloom Therapy, she creates a safe, collaborative space where clients can explore their strengths, build resilience, and pursue meaningful growth.

Hello, I’m Kamari, and I’m originally from Iowa! I earned my B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Drake University and am currently pursuing my M.S. in Counseling Psychology. My passion is working with BIPOC communities and marginalized populations, with a strong commitment to increasing access to culturally responsive mental health care.

I bring experience supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, people impacted by substance use, and adolescents navigating behavioral and mental health challenges. My counseling approach is person-centered, with an emphasis on empowerment, self-acceptance, and self-awareness. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where every individual feels seen and valued.

At the heart of my work is a belief in helping clients build awareness, take control of their own healing, and develop resilience that leads to lasting growth and well-being.

At Ember and Bloom Therapy, I aim to create a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental space where every individual feels seen and valued.

I’m Tamajong (Tama) Ndifor, a dedicated therapist with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Human Development and Family Science from the University of Central Missouri. Currently, I am pursuing my graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the same university.

I am passionate about supporting refugees and racial and ethnic minority communities, striving to enhance awareness and access to mental health services. My approach integrates cultural customs and values into therapeutic models, ensuring culturally sensitive and effective care for all individuals and families here at Ember and Bloom Therapy.