Welcome to Catalyst
Solution focused counseling, Insight focused therapy and assessment
About Us
Vibe Statement
Catalyst Counseling is a judgment-free space in which our fellow humans explore and heal from their pasts, acquire tools to problem-solve in the present, and work to create their desired future.
We are part of a small, but growing, intentional group of therapists with a focus on social justice, evidence-based practices, and meeting folx where they are.
We loudly and proudly create an intentional safe space for marginalized communities.
Catalyst is making a difference by:
Offering accessible and inclusive mental health services
Providing validation, support, unconditional positive regard, encouragement, and honest feedback
Fostering a judgment-free environment where learning and growing are acknowledged as a messy—and essential—process
Tackling issues around identity, sexual orientation, poly relationships, addiction, porn, personality disorders, and losing faith
Utilizing technology and referral sources to provide services and connect people with appropriate resources
meet maureen (she/her/hers)
Because they said I had to...
So, I hate talking about myself. But I know you are contemplating trusting me with your life story, so here are a few things you should know about me. (I guess.)
I'm an Independently Licensed Psychological Examiner and behavioral health care professional, and I’ve been practicing since I graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in 2011. I’m quite proud of the relationships I’ve built throughout my career, and I am very excited to be part of an incredible network of physicians, physical and massage therapists and, of course, mental health professionals in Arkansas.
I practice what I preach to my clients—I’m a firm believer in actively seeking the good, the positive, and the real. I’m quite practiced at setting healthy boundaries and sticking to them. Outside of the office, you can find me gardening and doing home improvements, like building a deck or replacing a floor. I get a kick out of thrift-store shopping, both because of the bargain and the idea that it’s environmentally conscious. Should you choose Catalyst as your partner in leveling up, you will definitely be exposed to my crocheting—it's a bit of an obsession. Oh, and I have a wonderfully weird purse that looks absolutely nothing like a purse; it’s ridiculous, which is why I love it.
Meet Crystal, LAC (she/her/hers)
Crystal Certain received her Master’s Degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling from University of Arkansas at Little Rock, her Bachelor’s in Art Education from the
University of Central Arkansas, and is currently a Licensed Practicing Counselor and Certified Teacher.
I believe in people and the power of the healing journey. We have difficulties that help shape who we are, but we don’t have to let them define who we become. Though newer to counseling I have eighteen years of experience as an educator working with adolescents and their parents. I have also been an advocate and activist working with marginalized communities, mutual aid initiatives, and supporting my LGBTQAI+ community.
I genuinely enjoy working with people in a virtual setting. After teaching through Covid I have learned how to connect virtually and am looking forward to working with you from the comfort of your own space.
As a member of the LGBTQAI+ community I am interested in helping others who live their life with rainbows. I practice Ethical Non-Monogamy and would be happy to help partners or individuals navigate the emotional balance of ENM. I am comfortable working with adults, teens, and parents of teens who are newly out, gender non-conforming, transitioning, or questioning their gender or sexuality. I also understand and appreciate neurodivergence and will work to accommodate your needs.
Whether you have a specific therapy goal or just need someone who can listen, I look forward to helping you on your journey.
meet Ashley (she/her/hers)
From Ashley:
As a pre licensed Arkansas counselor, (which means I can’t accept insurance), I’m committed to making mental health support accessible which is why I’m offering FREE counseling sessions! All sessions will be held through a HIPAA secure televideo platform, so you can connect with me from anywhere in Arkansas that has WiFi or cell service!
My background is as varied as my approach to counseling. I spent over a decade as a special education teacher and another decade dedicated to holistic wellness. I’m a licensed massage therapist, an experienced registered yoga teacher (E-RYT 200), a Reiki Master teacher and practitioner, and so much more. This diverse experience allows me to bring a holistic and whole-person centered approach to mental health.
I’m passionate about creating a safe, accessible, and affirming space for everyone. My particular areas of interest include working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, including those exploring or questioning their gender identity and sexual orientation; adult survivors of sexual abuse and/or domestic violence; women, non-binary, gender fluid, and trans individuals; neurodivergent individuals of all kinds (both self-diagnosed and clinically diagnosed); chronic illness and chronic pain; individuals dealing with religious trauma and deconstruction; and those experiencing pet loss, including anticipatory grief. I am also especially passionate about supporting those seeking a fat-affirming and body-positive counselor to navigate the impacts of diet culture.
My counseling philosophy is grounded in being trauma-informed, person-centered, culturally sensitive, and Health At Every Size (HAES)-informed. I believe in meeting each client where they are, honoring their unique experiences and identities, and walking with them on their path to healing and self-discovery.
I look forward to working with you at Catalyst Counseling, where we can embark on a journey of growth, healing, and transformation together!
I’m thrilled to announce that Ashley Clifton, Masters level counseling student, will be continuing her practicum with Catalyst Counseling this Fall/Spring. She is currently on an exciting journey towards becoming a licensed counselor, studying clinical mental health counseling at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock!
About Catalyst Counseling
Let's talk about why you're here...
If you’re reading this, you likely have already decided that some changes need to take place. Maybe you’re exhausted from too many sleepless nights where decades-old conversations play on a loop in your mind. Maybe you’re tired of being triggered by the same traumas and want to break the cycle. Maybe you’ve maxed out your stress levels and just want to learn how to put yourself first, how to distance yourself from toxic people, how to turn off your phone for a while and just breathe—or how to tell your sister’s friend’s cousin, “No, thank you, I would rather let my cat claw my eyeballs out than partake in your most recent pyramid scheme.” Or maybe you want to figure out how to be yourself in a world that would rather you be anything else.
Regardless of the reason(s), if you’re looking to create real, lasting change in your life, then you’re in the right place. Starting counseling will be the catalyst for you to achieve your goals and overcome your hurdles.
The point:
I (Maureen, owner and founder) went to school for a long time and learned about a bunch of useful (and scientifically validated) tools—but you have been YOU your whole life, so you're kind of the expert in that department. You know your hopes, your desires, your fears, and your “why” for starting therapy.
And whether you heard about me through a friend or just the good ol’ internet, you’re here because you’ve decided to make some changes—and why not?—whether that be to deal with trauma, change harmful behaviors, come to terms with your identity, or to simply acquire the tools to navigate through life better; change is the only constant.
So great job! —Catalyst Counseling can help with all of the above. (Plus a lot more, of course.) Through counseling and therapy, we will explore, heal, energize, and help you become aware of your inner strengths.
The bottom line:
At Catalyst Counseling, regardless of labels, you can expect a safe, judgment-free, affirming, positive, bullshit-free zone where—together—we will work on the things that are no longer working for you.
The Catalyst Counseling Approach is Especially Effective When Dealing With:
● Trauma
● Substance misuse
● Family Issues
● Anxiety
● Depression
● Communication Barriers
The stuff
Depression & Anxiety
Depression & Anxiety
Depression & Anxiety
Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Trauma & PTSD
Depression & Anxiety
Depression & Anxiety
Many individuals can experience mental health symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. Counseling and therapy can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing.
Oh yeah, and some faq
How do I know whether I really need therapy or counseling?
If you’re asking the question, the answer is YES, YES, YES. In truth, everyone needs some level of therapy or counseling from time to time—whether it’s weekly appointments to process past trauma or just a monthly check-in to keep you on the right track and maintain momentum. At Catalyst Counseling, we will work together to identify what type of therapy fits YOU, your needs, and your lifestyle!
What’s the difference between counseling and therapy? Which one is right for me?
Counseling and therapy are similar and are often used interchangeably—but also can be defined differently. Counseling is often solution-focused and shorter in terms of the number of visits; there is an end-goal you achieve, often a behavior that is ultimately changed. Therapy is more insight-focused and seeks out the root cause of the thoughts and feelings you may be experiencing.
Whatever you prefer to call your journey, it’s definitely a collaborative process.
What type of counseling experience can I expect?
I believe in meeting my clients where they currently are in life—mentally and emotionally—in order to help them move forward. My background is diverse, including working in community mental health settings with acute, severe mental illness, private group practice with individuals seeking greater understanding of themselves—and now, solo private practice with adolescents and adults seeking to make improvements in their lives and gain understanding of the underlying issues holding them back.
My style is relaxed, compassionate, and nonjudgmental.
What types of therapy does Catalyst Counseling offer?
I use a combination of strengths-based focus and basic behavioral and cognitive principles. I practice motivational interviewing with an emphasis on uncovering and identifying your intrinsic motivation for change. These methods are particularly effective for Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and Psychotic Disorders.
I believe in the power of relationship and the transformative nature of the therapeutic process. As a Psychological Examiner, I also perform specialized psychological evaluations, psycho-educational testing, career testing, objective-personality testing, diagnostic interviewing, and consultation.
Which insurance plans do you accept?
Ambetter, BlueCross BlueShield and Qualchoice.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
Yes. We also offer cash pay rates for those without insurance. This is negotiated on a case by case basis and at the discretion of your clinician. Should you need to use or you choose the cash pay option, a good faith estimate for services can be provided.
accreditations
