About Me

With over 20 years of experience supporting children and families, my focus is on helping you navigate challenges and achieve lasting change. Beginning in early childhood education, my career has expanded to include roles as a social worker, parent educator, and therapist.

I specialize in guiding individuals, children, and families through trauma and behavioral challenges—providing compassionate support and practical tools to help you heal, grow, and thrive.

Throughout my career, I have worked in community mental health settings, supporting diverse populations including crime victims, parents involved in the court system, and children in need of behavior management. I also served as a mental health clinician for Early Head Start, where I provided essential services to children and families during critical developmental years.

Education

  • BA in Social Science — Chapman University, Modesto, CA
  • MA in Child Growth and Development — California State University, Turlock, CA
  • MA in Psychology (Minor in Marriage & Family Therapy) — Brandman University, Modesto, CA
  • Master’s Certificate in Art4Healing — Chapman University, Orange, CA

I am deeply committed to supporting you and your family in finding healing and creating lasting change. It is an honor to walk alongside you on your journey toward growth and well-being.

Kristie Hale, MA, LMFT

Therapy is not about what’s wrong with you; it’s about what’s right with you and how you can build on that.

Virginia Satir

Meet Our Team

We are incredibly grateful to have Charity on our team. She brings warmth, compassion, and a genuine heart for helping others to everything she does. Charity is often the first point of contact for our clients, and her kindness and professionalism help create a welcoming, supportive experience from the very beginning. It is truly a pleasure to have her on staff—she is a valued part of the care we provide.

A Note from Charity Howard

Hi there,

My name is Charity Howard, and I am the Administrative Assistant to Kristie Hale.

Sometimes life has a way of taking the “long way around” before settling in and making sense. Having grown up in the Jefferson City area and then spending nearly 20 years away, I have returned to my hometown with a heart for helping individuals who may feel lost or are navigating seasons of transition.

When working with Mindful Expressions and Kristie Hale, you may hear from me regarding administrative details such as scheduling or paperwork. In addition to my current role, I am pursuing my graduate degree toward becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. Because of this, you can expect all communication to be handled with care, respect, and complete confidentiality.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out:
charity@kristiehale.com

Charity Howard, Admin Assistant

We are excited to have Veronica as part of our team. She brings genuine compassion, encouragement, and a heart for helping others to every client interaction. Veronica is passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment where individuals, couples, and families feel heard, valued, and supported. Her thoughtful approach and commitment to helping others grow make her a wonderful addition to the care we provide.

A Note from Veronica

Hello!

My name is Veronica, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapy intern currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy at Colorado Christian University.

I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families strengthen their relationships, navigate life’s challenges, and experience healing and personal growth. I believe every person has a unique story, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they pursue healthier relationships, greater self-awareness, and lasting change.

My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and centered on creating a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and respected. Whether you’re facing a difficult season, working through relationship concerns, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to provide encouragement and guidance as we work together toward your goals.

I look forward to supporting you wherever you are on your journey.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out:

veronica@kristiehale.com

Veronica Norwood, Intern

Therapeutic Modalities & Insurance Information

I offer a range of therapeutic approaches designed to support healing, growth, and long-term change:

Expressive Arts
A creative, nonverbal approach that allows individuals to process emotions and experiences through art, movement, and storytelling—especially helpful when words are hard to find.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
A structured, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they feel less overwhelming and no longer interfere with daily life.

PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy)
A hands-on, coaching-based approach that strengthens the parent-child relationship while improving behavior through real-time guidance and proven strategies.

AutPlay
A play-based modality designed specifically for neurodiverse children, using structured play to support emotional regulation, social skills, and connection in a way that meets them where they are.

Insurance Accepted

  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • United Healthcare – Medicaid
  • Home State Health – Medicaid

These approaches, paired with flexible insurance options, ensure you receive personalized, accessible support tailored to your needs.