NCTP Interns

We are thrilled to have interns here at Nashville Center for Trauma and Psychotherapy who help our practice run smoothly, and provide income dependent fees, serving Nashville with affordable therapy. What!? We know you thought that was impossible!  

Our current interns are with us as they complete their master's degrees in counseling.  Supervision will be provided directly by one of our licensed therapists while they are practicing at NCTP. If you are interested in the limited lower fee spots for counseling associated with seeing an intern, let us know in order to be placed on the schedule.  

Avery Barakett

I may not be able to walk in your shoes, but I can hold a light alongside you. This is the foundation of my approach to therapy, and together we’ll discover which paths and therapeutic techniques are the best fit for you.

I am a graduate student at Vanderbilt University pursuing a joint master’s degree in mental health counseling and school counseling. I received my B.A. in Psychology, with a minor in Ethnicity, Migration, and Rights, from Harvard University in 2024, where my studies focused on Native American communities.

I’m passionate about understanding the specific stressors and barriers that marginalized communities face, particularly around racial and intergenerational trauma. As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I'm committed to understanding the communities, identities, and interests that bring my clients fulfillment and purpose.

I believe our best therapeutic work happens when we engage the whole self. For this reason, I draw on a range of techniques, including artistic and somatic practices, to explore trauma, significant life experiences, and future goals.

Outside of sessions, I play ice hockey, ride horses, make art, explore estate sales, collect plants, and care for my amphibians and reptiles.

Email: avery@nashvillectp.com

Derek Pham

Everyone makes sense in the context of their story.

Whether you are navigating hurt, anxiety, or anything else that’s weighing on you, I am passionate about creating a space where you can be seen and fully known. I consider it a high honor to witness the courage it takes to seek healing. My commitment to you is simple: I lead with safety, trust, and unwavering support.

As a Master’s of Marriage and Family Therapy student at Trevecca Nazarene University, I use evidence-based care and human connection to support my clients. Your story matters to me. Together, we will look at the chapters already written and find the agency you need to author the ones yet to come.

When I’m not in the therapy room, you would find me drumming, practicing improv comedy, or exploring Nashville with a camera in hand. I am deeply invested in our city—especially in supporting those on the margins—and I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey toward transformation, healing, and growth. I look forward to connecting with you and hearing how we can best support your needs.

Email: derek@nashvillectp.com

Taylor Roberts

I am passionate about supporting people from all backgrounds and ages as they navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re working through trauma, navigating life transitions, experiencing distress, or trying to understand old patterns that no longer serve you, I’m here for you. I’ll walk alongside you with curiosity, nonjudgment, and care.

If you’re here, you’re already taking a meaningful step toward healing, and that matters. As a counseling intern at Vanderbilt University, I aim to create a compassionate, grounded space where you can feel supported and empowered to grow. My work is rooted in trauma-informed, person-centered, and integrative care. I draw from Brainspotting to support deep processing and nervous system regulation, and I incorporate DBT and CBT skills in a gentle and collaborative way when they feel helpful.

In our work together, you can expect a warm, collaborative environment where your pace, your story, and your autonomy are respected. My hope is that you feel safe, supported, and increasingly connected to who you are becoming and want to be.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy all types of yoga, hiking, traveling, golf, and spending time with close family and friends. If you’re interested in starting therapy or exploring whether we might be a good fit, I would love to connect.

Email: taylor@nashvillectp.com

Ja’Ray Simonton

Healing is not about getting back to who you were before. It is about coming to terms with the new you, the one who survived the storm. This healing journey tends to be filled with uncertainty, which can be scary and overwhelming. My goal is to create an inclusive safe space for your rainy and sunny days. I want you to feel secure, supported, and understood throughout your journey. 

I enjoy supporting clients of all ages and have added training in working with children and adolescents. As a clinical intern from Vanderbilt University, I incorporate person-centered therapy, play therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and CBT. I customize these evidence based methods to meet your needs and goals.

Outside of counseling, I enjoy cooking, playing with dogs, watching animes/tv shows, listening to R&B music, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to collaborating with you on your healing journey.

Email: jaray@nashvillectp.com

Ren Taylor

Human existence can feel monotonous, exhausting, and scary. As we move through life, we get stuck in metaphorical holes that we can't dig out of alone--no matter how hard we try. I believe my role as a therapist is climbing down into that hole to meet you; I will grab a shovel and we can get our hands dirty together. Whether you are dealing with relationship concerns, trauma, chronic pain and illness, or feelings of hopelessness, I will meet you where you are and we will walk the path to healing together. 

Therapy is hard, but reaching out for help takes immense insight and bravery. By seeking positive change, you have already taken the first step. 

I am a master's candidate and Clinical Mental Health Intern studying at Vanderbilt University with previous work experience in crisis counseling, inpatient mental health, and educational consulting for neurodivergent children and teens.

I bring a trauma-informed and identity-affirming lens to my work and seek to ensure every client feels heard, seen, and deeply understood. My style is collaborative, empowering, and humanistic. I incorporate a holistic perspective in my work, considering the impacts of external structures as well as internal experiences on well-being. 

I am passionate about working with survivors of sexual trauma, folks with chronic pain and illness, LGBTQIA individuals, couples, neurodivergence, and severe and persistent mental health concerns. 

Outside of sessions, I enjoy gardening in my backyard, spending time with my pet dog and bunny, reading fantasy novels, writing short stories, camping, and crafting.

Email: ren@nashvillectp.com

Nora Whitten

Everyone deserves to have a space where they feel seen, heard, and safe. 

My goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, patience, and curiosity, meeting you wherever you are in your healing journey. I believe you are the expert of your own experiences, and therapy should be a collaborative process that honors your voice, your story, and your strengths.

I strive to cultivate an inclusive & affirming space that respects all identities, cultural backgrounds, and life experiences. I work from a person-centered and holistic approach that recognizes the connection between the mind, body, & nervous system. As a Clinical Mental Health Counseling intern, I incorporate both evidence-based and creative approaches—including DBT, narrative therapy, somatic & mindfulness practices, and expressive arts techniques—each adapted to meet your unique needs & goals.

I am especially passionate about supporting survivors of trauma, sexual assault, & domestic violence, LGBTQIA+ folks, and women navigating health & life transitions. Together, we will explore difficult emotions, reconnect you with your sense of self, and foster growth & resilience in a space that feels safe and empowering.

Outside of counseling, I enjoy crafting, crocheting, reading, doing puzzles, and rewatching my comfort shows. It would be a privilege to support you in your healing journey!

Email: nora@nashvillectp.com

Claire Wiley

Whether you’re facing relationship conflict, adjusting to a new role, or processing difficult experiences, these moments can be overwhelming, isolating, or simply confusing. Having a place to slow down and reflect can make all the difference. As a Clinical Intern from the University of West Alabama, I consider it a privilege to hold space for clients during such meaningful seasons of life.

Coming from a research background, my therapeutic approach is grounded in curiosity, collaboration, and evidence-based practice. I am genuinely interested in understanding each client’s unique experience and working together to identify patterns, clarify what matters most, and move toward more authentic and aligned ways of living. I enjoy working with clients navigating transitions of all kinds, and am especially passionate about working with individuals during the perinatal season and with couples facing relationship challenges.

Outside of session you can find me at a youth sporting event, baking, or on a hike. My current hobbies are crochet and needlepoint, and I am a rookie mahjong player. If you’re ready to make sense of where you’ve been and consider what’s possible next, I’d be honored to walk with you.

Email: claire@nashvillectp.com

Intern Fees

Intern fees are based on your income and range between $35 and $65 per session. No one has ever been turned away simply because of finances. Please ask, no matter your situation.

Get in touch

Call (615) 268-3344 or schedule online here to begin your journey to better emotional, mental, and spiritual health.