HAWAII
Vanessa Baggs, LSW
Vanessa Baggs is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) based in Hawaii, holding a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Denver and a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from CU Boulder. Vanessa specializes in working with individuals, couples, families, and children, bringing a holistic, trauma-informed approach to her practice. With a strong commitment to person-centered care, she tailors her therapeutic methods to meet the unique needs of each client.
Vanessa Baggs,
LSW, Hawaii
Vanessa Baggs is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) based in Hawaii, holding a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Denver and a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from CU Boulder. Vanessa specializes in working with individuals, couples, families, and children, bringing a holistic, trauma-informed approach to her practice. With a strong commitment to person-centered care, she tailors her therapeutic methods to meet the unique needs of each client.
Vanessa’s practice is deeply rooted in the belief that every person possesses their own inner wisdom and has the capacity for healing. She incorporates mindfulness and body-centered practices with evidence-based therapeutic techniques, such as EMDR and Brainspotting, to help clients connect with their inner selves and work through trauma. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection and uses her background in neuroscience to inform her practice.
In her work, Vanessa supports clients through various challenges, including anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ASD, mood disorders, and more. She works with a wide range of populations, including children as young as five, adolescents, young adults, and adults. Vanessa is known for her kindness, dedication, and lightheartedness, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts and feelings. She finds great fulfillment in being part of her clients’ healing and empowerment processes, helping them find freedom from trauma and discover their own paths to wellness.
Outside of her professional work, Vanessa is trained in various healing modalities, including yoga, auricular therapy, and biofeedback. She enjoys hiking, cooking, spending time at the gym, and cherishes her relationships with her three grown children. Vanessa’s holistic approach to therapy reflects her belief in the positive effects of integrating mindfulness and body-centered practices, helping clients achieve their goals and navigate their unique challenges.
Areas of Expertise:
– Addiction
– ADHD
– Adoption-related issues
– Anger management
– Anxiety
– Autism spectrum disorders
– Bi-cultural conflict
– Body dysmorphia (BDD)
– Boundaries
– Crisis intervention
– Dating and relationship issues
– Decision-making
– Depression
– Grief and loss
– LGBTQ+ issues
– Life transitions
– Mood disorders
– OCD
– Parenting challenges
– School and college issues
– Self-esteem
– Self-injury
– Sexual abuse and sexual addiction
– Suicidality
– Trauma and PTSD
– Work and stress-related issues
Therapeutic Modalities:
- Brainspotting (BSP)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Holistic Approach
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Person-Centered Therapy
- Play Therapy
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
- Strength-Based Therapy
- Trauma-Informed Care (TIC)
- Yoga Therapy
She is currently accepting new guests.
Naomi Salazar, LCSW
Naomi Salazar is a licensed clinical social worker who received her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Hawaii at Mānoa. She decided that therapy was her calling based on a strong desire to share knowledge on how to cope with life’s stressors and heartaches and live the life we envision for ourselves. Before joining Willis CC, Naomi worked with children exhibiting behaviors associated with anxiety, trauma, and stress-related, depressive, personality, and neurological disorders in a school setting.
Naomi Salazar,
LCSW, Hawaii
Naomi Salazar At Willis CC, she looks forward to helping guests of all ages and populations. She loves hearing guests’ stories and being part of their journey to understand themselves and cultivate their strengths. She works with grief, loss, trauma, families in need, pain, and healing and has a passion for those searching for change.
Guests describe Naomi as curious, dependable, and kind. She truly believes each guest has many strengths and has shown resilience and insight through their decision to seek counseling. She hopes to help guests highlight their strengths and build upon the skills already within by gently exploring ways of coping and managing painful situations.
Born and raised in Washington State, Naomi moved to Hawaii to attend the University of Hawaii. After graduation, she lived in Oahu for 20 years. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading, and going to the beach. Otherwise, you can find her hiking, eating, soaking up the sun, or sitting around a campfire with family and friends.
“Stay awkward, brave, and kind.” – Brené Brown
Age Specialty
15 – 65 y/o
Naomi’s Modalities
- Individuals
Naomi’s Therapeutic Approach Incorporates
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
- Strength-Based Therapy
Naomi’s Specializations
- ADHD
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Boundaries
- Depression
- School Issues / College Issues
- Work / Stress
- Grief and Loss
- Crisis Management
Locations
- Hawaii Telehealth/Virtual
Mark Villanueva, LCSW
Mark Villanueva is a licensed clinical social worker based in Oahu, Hawaii, with a passion for providing compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care. Earning his Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Mark brings a diverse array of therapeutic techniques to his practice, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Therapy, and Strength-Based Therapy. He specializes in a variety of mental health issues ranging from addiction, anger, and anxiety to grief, substance abuse, and work-related stress.
Mark Villanueva,
LCSW, Hawaii
Mark Villanueva is a licensed clinical social worker based in Oahu, Hawaii, with a passion for providing compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care. Earning his Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Mark brings a diverse array of therapeutic techniques to his practice, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Therapy, and Strength-Based Therapy. He specializes in a variety of mental health issues ranging from addiction, anger, and anxiety to grief, substance abuse, and work-related stress.
Proudly representing his Hawaiian and Filipino heritage, Mark provides care to individuals, families, and the elderly across various age groups. Mark’s approach to therapy is unique; he believes that being too formal and professional can alienate his patients, so he welcomes everyone with open arms and a relatable demeanor. “Being myself when building rapport and trust has always produced positive outcomes,” he says.
With the motto, “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work,” attributed to Aristotle, Mark finds immense fulfillment in his role as a social worker. He views his work as his life’s calling, echoing his sentiment that “giving back is how I bring joy, peace, and fulfillment into my life.”
In addition to his work, Mark is an ardent lover of the outdoors, enjoying hiking and fishing in his free time. Bowling also features on his list of hobbies, along with a love for action and horror movies. Most importantly, he values spending quality time with his son and traveling to experience new cultures and places.
Mark’s mission is to let people know that help is readily available and that there are individuals who genuinely care. “I am here to lend a hand to those who are suffering and in need,” he affirms. Deeply committed to social justice, empowerment, and skill-building, Mark is not just a therapist; he’s a beacon of hope in the vibrant Hawaiian community.
Lucille Flood, LCSW
Lucille Flood is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Hawaii, with a mission to promote mental health and well-being in individuals, couples, families, and young adults. With a Master’s degree in Social Work from Hawai’i Pacific University, Lucille brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice. Lucille’s therapeutic approach is grounded in a variety of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Lucille Flood,
LCSW, Hawaii
Lucille Flood is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Hawaii, with a mission to promote mental health and well-being in individuals, couples, families, and young adults. With a Master’s degree in Social Work from Hawai’i Pacific University, Lucille brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice.
Lucille’s therapeutic approach is grounded in a variety of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Therapy (FT), Humanistic Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Stages of Change, Strength-Based Therapy, and Systemic Family Therapy (FT). She tailors her approach to meet the unique needs and interests of each individual guest, fostering a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship.
Specializing in a wide range of mental health concerns, including addiction, anger, anxiety, boundaries, depression, family conflict, parenting, school issues, and work-related stress, Lucille provides a safe and non-judgmental space for guests to explore their challenges and work toward positive change.
Lucille’s own journey with mental health challenges has fueled her passion for helping others. She believes deeply in the transformative power of therapy and the therapeutic relationship. With kindness, intelligence, and a spirit of adventure, Lucille guides her guests toward uncovering their inner strengths, gaining insight into their behaviors, and making meaningful changes to improve their lives.
In addition to her clinical work, Lucille is committed to ongoing professional development and has completed training in Trauma Responsive Care, DiSC Leadership, Structural and Strategic Family Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Suicide Prevention.
Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, Lucille Flood provides a safe and supportive space for growth and healing. With her guidance, you can embark on a journey toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and well-being.
Lucille “Luci” Miller, LCSW
Lucille Miller is a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in the picturesque state of Hawaii, boasting an expansive career rooted in resilient determination and compassionate care. Working primarily with individuals and older adults, ranging from middle-aged individuals to the elderly, Lucille offers a sanctuary where clients can work through life’s trials, including crisis management, grief handling, and spirituality-related concerns.
Lucille "Luci" Miller,
LCSW, Hawaii
Lucille Miller is a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in the picturesque state of Hawaii, boasting an expansive career rooted in resilient determination and compassionate care. Working primarily with individuals and older adults, ranging from middle-aged individuals to the elderly, Lucille offers a sanctuary where clients can work through life’s trials, including crisis management, grief handling, and spirituality-related concerns.
Educationally fortified with an associate degree from Kapiolani Community College and further nurturing her skill set with a bachelor’s and master’s in Social Work from the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, Lucille brings a rich perspective to her practice. Leveraging an approach grounded in Compassion-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Lucille guides her clients to identify and dissect seemingly insurmountable problems, encouraging them to find their solutions and acknowledge their innate strength.
Drawing from an impressive 30-year tenure as a veterinary technician and her vibrant experiences, including skydiving and river rafting, Lucille brings a unique lens of wisdom and courage to her therapy sessions. A future Peace Corps aspirant, Lucille embodies a spirit of adventure and altruism, traits that spill into her dedicated therapeutic practice.
Away from her professional sphere, she is a lover of nature, often found hiking and engaging in enriching audiobooks, always fostering her resilience and nurturing her determined spirit. Lucille’s person-centered therapy facilitates a safe space, gently guiding individuals to develop a fresh perspective on their concerns, approaching each issue “one day at a time”—a mantra that embodies her methodical and compassionate approach to therapy.
In Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she spent part of her life before moving to Hawaii, Lucille honed her philosophy that encourages individuals to evolve into their best selves. Her expertise has also led her to work on outpatient palliative care teams, offering holistic care for individuals battling life-threatening illnesses.
Reach out to Lucille for a therapy journey rooted in experience and empathy, where every session is a step toward personal growth, self-care, and discovering the breadth of one’s resilience and strength. In Lucille’s seasoned hands, you find not just a therapist but a steadfast ally in your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
She is currently accepting new guests virtually in Hawaii across all islands.
Jordan Sleeth, LSW
Jordan holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Hawaii. Her Aloha spirit is strong, and she brings her Colorado mountain free-ness along with her.
Often described as outgoing, easy to get along with, and caring, Jordan became a therapist after having lost several friends to suicide and experiencing anxiety firsthand. Jordan hopes to remind those who feel alone that they are not alone in this world.
Jordan Sleeth,
LSW, Hawaii
Jordan holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Hawaii. Her Aloha spirit is strong, and she brings her Colorado mountain free-ness along with her.
Often described as outgoing, easy to get along with, and caring, Jordan became a therapist after having lost several friends to suicide and experiencing anxiety firsthand. Jordan hopes to remind those who feel alone that they are not alone in this world. She enjoys being there for and supporting others. She is an advocate and understands why the semicolon symbol matters!
Jordan has experience working with those in crisis and approaches therapy with a laid-back, client-led, and free-flowing manner. She has experience with individuals on hospice services and has also worked on a crisis line, supporting guests from various backgrounds who need different kinds of support. Her ongoing experience supporting loved ones through the dying process has gifted her with great wisdom, patience, and perspective.
While working with WCC, Jordan hopes to relieve anxiety and stress for those she works with. She aims to create a safe place for people to talk and work through tough times. Her skills are broad, and her passion is deep.
Outside of work, Jordan enjoys going to the beach, the gym, and hiking. She believes that being outside and staying active are very important. She grew up snow skiing, snowboarding, and wakeboarding. She was also a Colorado State gymnast. To sum it all up, Jordan is all about action, and guests who want to work on goals will have an ally in her.
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”
Ages:
- 12 years old and older
Populations:
- Individuals
Modalities:
- Narrative Therapy
- Person-Centered Therapy
Specialties:
- Anxiety
- Crisis
- Family Conflict
- Grief and Loss
- Self-Esteem
- Suicide
- Work and Stress
Location:
- Hawaii Telehealth/Virtual
Celeste de la Paz, LSW, LMSW
Celeste holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at El Paso and a master’s degree in Social Work from Texas State University in San Marcos. She is a Texas transplant working also in Hawaii—she knows life in the heat and sun for sure!
Often described as empathetic, diligent, and astute, Celeste has experience working with victims of human trafficking. She knew after this experience that she wanted to become a therapist.
Celeste de la Paz,
LSW, LMSW, Hawaii
Celeste holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at El Paso and a master’s degree in Social Work from Texas State University in San Marcos. She is a Texas transplant working also in Hawaii—she knows life in the heat and sun for sure!
Often described as empathetic, diligent, and astute, Celeste has experience working with victims of human trafficking. She knew after this experience that she wanted to become a therapist. It goes without saying that she is an advocate for women, girls, and anyone being taken advantage of in life. You won’t find a stronger advocate than in Celeste.
She believes that something as small as a giggle, as well as reaching weekly goals, recovery maintenance, and regaining one’s self-confidence, can have a big impact on guests. She believes the smallest steps can lead to the biggest strides. Celeste finds it fulfilling to witness guests come full circle and regain their confidence, hope, and sense of normalcy through the work they do in therapy. Her goal in therapy is to maintain consistency and work toward open and effective communication with guests.
This work includes balancing work-life, decision overload, managing identity issues, relationship work, and mood issues such as anxiety and depression. Her skills and experience are broad, and she is LGBTQ+ supportive and welcoming.
Outside of work, Celeste enjoys cooking, organizing, and Pilates. She also has a Golden Retriever named Koba, who is her best pal. Together, she and Koba enjoy beach days, movies, and hiking. Some of her favorite films are “The Crow” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.” She loves Mexican food and enjoys vacationing in both Mexico and Santa Barbara, CA.
“A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees.”
Ages:
- Age five and older
Populations:
- Individuals
- Couples/partners
- Families
Modalities:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Family Therapy
- Gestalt Therapy
- Skills-Based Approach
- Stages of Change
- Trauma-Informed Care
Specialties:
- ADHD
- Autism
- Crisis
- Dating and Relationships
- Decision Making
- Domestic Violence
- Family Conflict
- LGBTQ+
- Mood Disorders
- Pregnancy/Prenatal/Postpartum
- Self-Esteem
- Sexual Intimacy Issues
- Trauma and PTSD
Location:
- Hawaii Telehealth/Virtual
- Texas Telehealth/Virtual
Brandie Nacnac, LCSW
Healing Guide | Holistic Therapist | Empathetic Supporter
Brandie works primarily with middle-aged and elderly individuals, addressing issues such as addiction, ADHD, anger, anxiety, crisis management, relationship and family conflicts, mood disorders, parenting, and self-esteem. Her background includes extensive experience in palliative care, end-of-life care, caregiver burnout, and grief counseling. She has a special passion for gerontology and palliative care.
Brandie Nacnac,
LCSW, Hawaii
Locations: In-person in Kapolei, HI; Virtual sessions through Willis Counseling and Consulting
Brandie Nacnac is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Oahu, Hawaii, offering in-person sessions in Kapolei and virtual counseling through Willis Counseling and Consulting. With a profound passion for helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges, Brandie provides flexible and accessible support to her guests.
Brandie’s therapeutic practice is rooted in a holistic and humanistic approach, focusing on understanding each person as a whole. She integrates various therapeutic modalities to tailor her sessions to meet the unique needs of each guest. Her areas of expertise include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
- Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Person-Centered Therapy
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
- Strength-Based Therapy
- Stages of Change
Brandie works primarily with middle-aged and elderly individuals, addressing issues such as addiction, ADHD, anger, anxiety, crisis management, relationship and family conflicts, mood disorders, parenting, and self-esteem. Her background includes extensive experience in palliative care, end-of-life care, caregiver burnout, and grief counseling. She has a special passion for gerontology and palliative care.
Brandie believes that by healing and changing our internal stories, we can shape our lives to be what we truly want. She sees each person as the expert in their own life, sometimes needing a compassionate guide to help interpret and navigate the challenges they encounter. Brandie is committed to being by her guests’ sides through their healing journeys, helping them develop the strengths needed to achieve desired outcomes and providing tools to handle future challenges.
With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Brandie has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families through their most difficult times. Her multicultural heritage (Hawaiian, Filipino, Japanese) and rural upbringing in Lanai City, Hawaii, inform her inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to therapy.
When not working with guests, Brandie enjoys spending quality time with her family, exploring outdoor activities, traveling, and indulging in various forms of dance, including hula and salsa. She also cherishes hunting trips with her dad and family adventures to Disney parks.
Brandie is dedicated to providing a caring, empathetic, and supportive environment where guests can embark on their healing journeys. Together, she works with her guests to achieve balance, happiness, and a deeper understanding of themselves. Brandie is passionate about helping her guests transform their internal narratives and create the lives they truly desire.
Brandie Nacnac looks forward to working with WCC guests and helping them find their path to healing and fulfillment. She is currently accepting new guests.
Anna Dixon, LCPC
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, my primary focus is to listen to your story and understand the challenges you’ve faced. With over eight years of experience in the field, I am dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, using evidence-based practices that empower you to create meaningful, positive changes in your life.
Anna Dixon
LCPC, Hawaii/Montana/Missouri
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, my primary focus is to listen to your story and understand the challenges you’ve faced. With over eight years of experience in the field, I am dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, using evidence-based practices that empower you to create meaningful, positive changes in your life.
I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling from Montana State University Northern, and I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness techniques, all tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
My passion lies in supporting individuals—particularly teens and adults—who are navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, panic disorders, personality disorders, relationship issues, social skills development, life transitions, trauma, and more. I’ve had the privilege of working in diverse settings, from community mental health facilities to supporting military personnel and their families.
I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming space for clients to feel heard and understood. I firmly believe that every person’s journey is unique, and I aim to build a compassionate, collaborative relationship with each client, working together to achieve their personal goals and enhance their well-being.
If you’re ready to make lasting changes, I’m here to provide the guidance and support you need to navigate life’s challenges and build a fulfilling future.
Kristen Benevides, LCSW (She/Her)
Hawaii | Virtual Only
Kristen Benevides is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Hawaii who brings a calm, patient, and warm approach to therapy. She works with adults of all ages—young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults—supporting them through life’s challenges with curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for each person’s unique journey.
Kristen Benevides, LCSW (She/Her)
Hawaii | Virtual Only
Kristen Benevides is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Hawaii who brings a calm, patient, and warm approach to therapy. She works with adults of all ages—young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults—supporting them through life’s challenges with curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for each person’s unique journey.
Kristen specializes in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, eating disorders, life transitions, self-esteem, work stress, and boundary setting. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Journal Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care to guide her clients. She also incorporates yoga-based approaches for those interested in mind-body connection.
Clients often describe Kristen as a grounded and empathetic presence who helps them feel safe, seen, and empowered. Her sessions are guided by the belief that the client is the expert in their own life—she listens deeply, asks thoughtful questions, and avoids over-explaining, allowing insights to emerge organically. As Kristen says, “Slow down and breathe.”
With a background in hospice and medical social work, Kristen has worked with Medicare Advantage members, medically fragile individuals, and those navigating major life stressors, dementia, and substance use issues. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and a Bachelor’s in Human Behavior from the University of Phoenix.
Outside the therapy room, Kristen loves reading, exercising, spending time with family and friends, and all things Disney—especially visiting during Halloween or Christmas. She’s also a proud Swiftie and Travis Kelce fan, and happily shares a dog with her parents.
She is currently accepting new clients virtually in Hawaii.