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Meet the Team
 

Meet the compassionate providers who bring the CARE Approach to life through connected, intentional support

BAILEY MITCHELL

Founder

LCMFT-S

Bailey Mitchell developed the CARE Approach to help parents, children, and families grow through deeper understanding, connection, and practical support. Rooted in developmental insight and brain-based science, her framework combines compassionate care with real-life strategies that strengthen relationships, build lasting skills, and support meaningful growth.  

 

Over time, Bailey expanded the CARE curriculum beyond the therapy room to serve schools, corporations, community organizations, and service-based industries—making intentional, empowering care accessible across a variety of settings.

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As a therapist, Bailey’s  style is authentic, approachable, and direct. She believes therapy should feel human and comfortable, not stiff or scripted, and values honesty, perspective, and genuine connection in the room. Her work focuses on helping clients develop greater insight and self-awareness so they can move toward growth, confidence, and becoming the best version of themselves.

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BRANDI STARKS, MSN PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric Medication Management

Brandi is a dedicated mental health provider who specializes in evidence-based medication management with a focus on personalized, collaborative care. Rather than taking a “checklist” approach, Brandi prioritizes building meaningful relationships with patients where they feel heard, understood, and treated as whole individuals.

 

Brandi provides care for individuals of all genders and ages, with a special passion for women’s and perinatal mental health. She supports clients navigating anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, life transitions, and a wide range of mental health concerns.

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Her approach combines clinical excellence with deep empathy. Brandi is committed to staying current with evolving research, treatment options, and best practices in psychiatric care so she can provide thoughtful, evidence-based support tailored to each individual’s needs.

 

Brandi strives to create an inclusive, equitable, and judgment-free environment where patients feel safe, supported, and empowered throughout their wellness journey.

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KELLY ANKROM

LPC-T

Kelly is a licensed professional counselor currently with a temporary license but with a passion for supporting teenagers and young adults as they navigate life’s challenges. With 14 years of experience in the education field Kelly brings a deep understanding of the academic, social, and emotional pressures young people face today.

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Kelly specializes in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and career counseling, providing a supportive and compassionate environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered. Her approach is collaborative and strengths-based, helping clients build practical skills while fostering confidence and resilience.

Kelly utilizes evidence-based therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. These methods allow her to tailor each session to the unique needs of the clients, equipping them with tools to manage emotions, improve relationships, and create meaningful change in their lives.​

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CAITLIN MARTIN

LPC-T

Caitlin is currently a school counselor and LPC-T, with 8 years of experience supporting teens through both everyday stress and more complex challenges. Working in a school setting has given Caitlin a real, day-to-day understanding of what teens are dealing with, and it shapes the way she provides therapy.

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Caitlin works primarily with teens and young adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, family conflict, and the ups and downs that come with growing up. Whether clients are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with motivation, or trying to figure out relationships, Caitlin aims to create a space where they can be themselves without judgment.

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Caitlin’s style is down-to-earth and practical. Caitlin wants clients to leave sessions not just feeling heard, but with tools they can actually use in their daily lives. Therapy with Caitlin is a balance of support and gentle challenge, helping clients build confidence and move forward at their own pace.

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KRISTEN COOK

LMSW

Kristen Cook is a Licensed Master Social Worker dedicated to helping children, teens, and young adults overcome mental health challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling lives. She specializes in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, and emotional regulation difficulties, using a collaborative, strengths-based approach that empowers clients to reach their personal goals.

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Kristen earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in Social Work from Wichita State University, completing internships with Pyxis Inc. and The Center for Combating Human Trafficking. She has experience providing therapeutic services across a variety of settings, including psychiatric hospitalization, school-based mental health, and private practice. Her work has included supporting children, adolescents, families, and young adults through emotional, behavioral, and life challenges with compassion and evidence-based care.

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Kristen's approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered to build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and experience lasting growth.

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ALAINA GILKEY

CMHC- Intern

Alaina Gilkey is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern with more than 22 years of experience supporting children, teens, parents, and families in educational, community, and faith-based settings. She is passionate about helping individuals build emotional wellness, develop healthy coping skills, and navigate life's challenges with greater confidence and resilience.

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In addition to her extensive work with children and families, Alaina has five years of experience in geriatric care, supporting individuals with dementia and other mental health conditions. Her diverse background has fostered a holistic, person-centered approach that recognizes the unique experiences and strengths of every individual across the lifespan.

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Alaina earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wichita State University and is currently pursuing her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with an anticipated graduation in December 2026. She is committed to lifelong learning and providing compassionate, evidence-based care that meets the evolving needs of her clients.

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Alaina strives to create a warm, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered as they work toward healing, personal growth, and lasting well-being.

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LAURA ELLIS​

Director of Operations & Education

KCPPST

Certified ADHD & Family Wellness Coach

Laura brings a relationship-centered, strengths-based approach to her role as Director of Operations & Education at Care & Co.

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With experience in human relations, leadership development, behavioral health, and K–12 education, she is passionate about helping individuals, families, and organizations build the understanding, skills, and support systems they need to thrive.

In addition to her leadership role at Care & Co, Laura works directly with clients, drawing on advanced training in emotional and behavioral support, executive functioning, parent coaching, and peer support. She especially enjoys working with children, tweens, and teens to better understand and navigate emotions, strengthen executive functioning and ADHD-related skills, and build confidence. She also works with caregivers to explore family patterns, increase self-awareness, and strengthen relationships within the family.

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HANNA WRIGHT

MA, LCPC

Supervisor & Administrative Assistant

Hanna is a compassionate therapist whose passion for therapy is rooted in her genuine love for hearing people’s stories. She believes that every individual has a unique story to tell—and that true healing begins when clients feel truly heard and seen. Hanna’s goal is to walk alongside her clients, offering the support and guidance they need to become the best version of themselves.

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With advanced training in trauma and attachment, Hanna specializes in working with adults, adolescents, couples, and parents of young children who have experienced high-trauma circumstances such as abuse, neglect, foster care, and domestic violence.

Drawing on her background in both therapy and child welfare, Hanna provides individualized care that honors each client’s strengths and lived experiences. She creates a safe, supportive environment where clients can build resilience, strengthen relationships, and discover hope and well-being.

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MEG YENSER

LPC-INTERN

Meg Yenser is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern currently pursuing her master's degree at Wichita State University. She works with children, teens, adults, and families, with a special passion for supporting young children and caregivers through life transitions, emotional challenges, and relationship concerns.

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Meg brings a strong background in child development, education, and family support to her counseling work. As a parent educator and home visitor for the Haysville School District, she partners with families of children from birth to age five, helping caregivers strengthen parent-child relationships, understand child development, and foster healthy growth and learning. She also holds teaching licensure in both general and special education, giving her a well-rounded understanding of children's developmental and educational needs.

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Meg earned her bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Unified Education from Wichita State University and is currently pursuing additional training in play therapy.

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TYRA HOSTETLER

MSW Student

Tyra is a Master of Social Work student completing her graduate practicum while pursuing her Master of Social Work at Fort Hays State University. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and is working toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

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Before entering the social work field, Tyra spent more than 16 years working in healthcare and social services. These experiences shaped her compassionate, person-centered approach and reinforced the importance of treating every individual with dignity, respect, and empathy while recognizing the unique strengths each person brings to the healing process.

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Tyra is passionate about supporting individuals and families as they navigate life's challenges. Her areas of interest include trauma-informed care, substance use, anxiety, depression, and overall mental wellness. She believes in meeting clients where they are, fostering genuine connection, and working collaboratively to help clients build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and achieve meaningful growth.

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AJ CUTLER​

Health & Fitness Coach

Facilitator

AJ is a Health & Fitness Coach specializing in weight-neutral, non-diet approaches to exercise and nutrition. She is a NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Science. AJ also serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Exercise Science at Wichita State University and has over 10 years of experience working with diverse populations.

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Her work is aligned with Health at Every Size® (HAES®) principles and takes a trauma-informed, autonomy-supportive approach. AJ supports clients in building strength, mobility, and sustainable movement practices while improving their relationship with food, body image, and exercise. She has experience working with prenatal and post-partum clients, and her services are designed to complement mental health and nutrition care.

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NATALIE ELLIS​

Parent & Wellness Coach

Facilitator

Natalie holds a degree in Human Development and is a certified Life Coach with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She specializes in supporting parents as they move from surviving to thriving by using simple, practical tools that foster deeper connection, calm, and influence at home.

 

Natalie believes that the way we interact with our children has a far-reaching and lasting impact—and that even in challenging seasons, parents have the power to create more peace, confidence, and connection within their families. Her approach is compassionate, strengths-based, and rooted in both evidence-informed strategies and real-life application.

 

In addition to private coaching, Natalie offers group classes and facilitates workshops for parents and caregivers. Her life coach training also includes certification in weight loss coaching, allowing her to support clients in building healthier relationships with their bodies, habits, and overall well-being.

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Seeking Support

Navigating life can be challenging. Whether you're an individual, a parent, a business owner or a corporate manager, we understand the support needed to feel your best. 
1.

Therapy Services

2.

Family Support

3.

Community Trainings

4.

Organizational Consulting

5.

Workshops & Groups

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Care & Co.

450 N 159th St E

Wichita, KS 67230

Tel: 316-306-3569

Email: info@careandco.org

Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm

​​Saturday: 8am - 1pm

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