Our Team
Rachel Murdock
Rachel Murdock, MS, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, is the owner and clinician of Beyond the Storm Behavioral Health, LLC, a group practice in Eastern Jackson County, MO. Her practice specializes in mental health counseling for first responders, survivors of abuse, and individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, or post-traumatic stress. A significant part of her work involves conducting statutory wellness checks for first responder agencies, where she provides psychoeducation on trauma, promotes psychological resilience, and offers essential resources and referrals.
Rachel’s clinical expertise is built on a distinguished career spanning over two decades, including more than 10 years as a Child/Adolescent Forensic Interviewer with the FBI, where she conducted nearly 3,000 interviews. She is a recognized expert witness for the United States on matters related to forensic interviews, human trafficking, and victimology. Rachel further shares her extensive knowledge by teaching undergraduate and graduate psychology courses at Avila University, Missouri State University, and Southern New Hampshire State University.
Phone: 816-427-1337
Email: rachel@beyondthestormkc.com
Rachel Murdock
Rachel Murdock, MS, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, is the owner and clinician of Beyond the Storm Behavioral Health, LLC, a group practice in Eastern Jackson County, MO. Her practice specializes in mental health counseling for first responders, survivors of abuse, and individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, or post-traumatic stress. A significant part of her work involves conducting statutory wellness checks for first responder agencies, where she provides psychoeducation on trauma, promotes psychological resilience, and offers essential resources and referrals.
Rachel’s clinical expertise is built on a distinguished career spanning over two decades, including more than 10 years as a Child/Adolescent Forensic Interviewer with the FBI, where she conducted nearly 3,000 interviews. She is a recognized expert witness for the United States on matters related to forensic interviews, human trafficking, and victimology. Rachel further shares her extensive knowledge by teaching undergraduate and graduate psychology courses at Avila University, Missouri State University, and Southern New Hampshire State University.
Phone: 816-427-1337
Email: rachel@beyondthestormkc.com
Michaela Jacobson
Acknowledging the courage it takes to pursue therapy, I am excited to leverage my experience as a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor to support your pursuit of your best self. I believe in meeting clients where they are, ensuring they feel heard and seen through a collaborative and strengths-based approach. Together, we can address current areas of concern within the realms of emotions, career, identity, and relationships, as well as symptoms stemming from past trauma.
My primary goal is to provide a comfortable, safe, and nonjudgmental environment where we can discover the sources of your symptoms and work through them holistically. By engaging with your past and present with kindness, we can work to equip you to navigate life better than before. It is my honor to walk alongside you in this process, helping you tap into the potential for freedom and wholeness that we all possess.
Phone: 816-653-6869
Email: michaela@beyondthestormkc.com
Michaela Jacobson
Acknowledging the courage it takes to pursue therapy, I am excited to leverage my experience as a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor to support your pursuit of your best self. I believe in meeting clients where they are, ensuring they feel heard and seen through a collaborative and strengths-based approach. Together, we can address current areas of concern within the realms of emotions, career, identity, and relationships, as well as symptoms stemming from past trauma.
My primary goal is to provide a comfortable, safe, and nonjudgmental environment where we can discover the sources of your symptoms and work through them holistically. By engaging with your past and present with kindness, we can work to equip you to navigate life better than before. It is my honor to walk alongside you in this process, helping you tap into the potential for freedom and wholeness that we all possess.
Phone: 816-653-6869
Email: michaela@beyondthestormkc.com
Shelby Barber
I have worked in the mental healthcare field for the past eight years. I completed my Masters in Social Work through the University of Missouri-Columbia and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have worked predominantly with those experiencing symptoms of complex PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Pain Survivors, Depression, and Anxiety based symptoms.
I have been trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and Attachment-based therapies. More importantly, I believe in treating the whole person through the authentic relationship we create and the safety you feel during the work we do together.
Phone: 816-597-4585
Email: shelby@beyondthestormkc.com
Shelby Barber
I have worked in the mental healthcare field for the past eight years. I completed my Masters in Social Work through the University of Missouri-Columbia and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have worked predominantly with those experiencing symptoms of complex PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Pain Survivors, Depression, and Anxiety based symptoms.
I have been trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and Attachment-based therapies. More importantly, I believe in treating the whole person through the authentic relationship we create and the safety you feel during the work we do together.
Phone: 816-597-4585
Email: shelby@beyondthestormkc.com
Jordyn Wood-Harris
Clinician (PLPC)
I am a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor committed to working with individuals of varying demographics. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2023 and have experience treating a range of issues such as exposure to trauma, difficulties with life transitions, coping with symptoms related to anxiety and/or depression and much more.
I strive to make clients feel comfortable and supported within a space where people have a sense of control in their therapeutic experience. Clients can expect to address, understand, and change areas of their life that may the source of their distress. Here, you can be in charge of your own success.
Phone: 816-441-4285
Email: jordyn@beyondthestormkc.com
Jordyn Wood-Harris
Clinician (PLPC)
I am a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor committed to working with individuals of varying demographics. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2023 and have experience treating a range of issues such as exposure to trauma, difficulties with life transitions, coping with symptoms related to anxiety and/or depression and much more.
I strive to make clients feel comfortable and supported within a space where people have a sense of control in their therapeutic experience. Clients can expect to address, understand, and change areas of their life that may the source of their distress. Here, you can be in charge of your own success.
Phone: 816-441-4285
Email: jordyn@beyondthestormkc.com
Brandy Williams
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
I am a strong believer that everyone can benefit from therapy. Decreasing the stigma of mental health is important to me. I have experience working in trauma and can provide an empathetic and authentic experience to support healing. I am a kind and clear communicator and want to encourage the belief that sustainable growth and healing can be yours when you lean into the difficult emotions and feelings that keep us stuck from moving forward and being our best selves. I would be honored to help create a safe space for you to be successful in this therapeutic journey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas. I have been working in the field of social services for over 20 years, with a focus on child sexual abuse, sexual violence, domestic violence and violence prevention. I work full time as the Director of Education at MOCSA in Kansas City. I am an active member of my community and volunteer in various activities.
Phone: 816-306-1229
Email: brandy@beyondthestormkc.com
Brandy Williams
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
I am a strong believer that everyone can benefit from therapy. Decreasing the stigma of mental health is important to me. I have experience working in trauma and can provide an empathetic and authentic experience to support healing. I am a kind and clear communicator and want to encourage the belief that sustainable growth and healing can be yours when you lean into the difficult emotions and feelings that keep us stuck from moving forward and being our best selves. I would be honored to help create a safe space for you to be successful in this therapeutic journey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas. I have been working in the field of social services for over 20 years, with a focus on child sexual abuse, sexual violence, domestic violence and violence prevention. I work full time as the Director of Education at MOCSA in Kansas City. I am an active member of my community and volunteer in various activities.
Phone: 816-306-1229
Email: brandy@beyondthestormkc.com
Moraiah Mitchell
SMFT (MO & KS)
Supervised by Melissa Winston, MS, LMFT-S, LCMFT-S, License #2014025253 (MO)
Moraiah is a licensed therapist with a Master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy from Antioch University New England. She has a Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a minor in Advertising from Kansas State University.
She understands the complexity of addressing our thoughts and feelings while creating space to discover their true meanings. Moraiah also acknowledges the importance of creating an inclusive, safe, and welcoming space for clients. The world can feel overwhelming and lonely, and she is passionate about helping others find their light through their darkest moments.
She is open to all demographics including working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples, and families. She also has a deep interest in trauma-informed care.
Phone: 816-312-5247
Email: moraiah@beyondthestormkc.com
Dr. Sarah Willey
I am passionate about joining with adult clients on their journey toward mental health recovery and wellness, whether the primary concerns are related to a new life change or to a longer-standing emotional or relational problem. I have worked in a variety of settings, including acute and longer-term inpatient care, VA, outpatient care, and college counseling. My approach to therapy is warm and compassionate, drawing primarily from cognitive behavioral therapies. My goal is to help my clients develop new coping skills and new ways of thinking about their situations, while also enhancing relational well-being through effective communication and boundaries. For clients who request it, I can integrate Christian faith into therapy.
I believe each person and their story is sacred, and none of us are meant to go through life alone. I feel honored when clients trust me with their story, allowing me to join with them on their journey for a season and to bear witness to both their pain and their progress.
Phone: (816) 371-7308
Email: sarah@beyondthestormkc.com
Moraiah Mitchell
SMFT (MO & KS)
Supervised by Melissa Winston, MS, LMFT-S, LCMFT-S, License #2014025253 (MO)
Moraiah is a licensed therapist with a Master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy from Antioch University New England. She has a Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a minor in Advertising from Kansas State University.
She understands the complexity of addressing our thoughts and feelings while creating space to discover their true meanings. Moraiah also acknowledges the importance of creating an inclusive, safe, and welcoming space for clients. The world can feel overwhelming and lonely, and she is passionate about helping others find their light through their darkest moments.
She is open to all demographics including working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples, and families. She also has a deep interest in trauma-informed care.
Phone: 816-312-5247
Email: moraiah@beyondthestormkc.com
Dr. Sarah Willey
I am passionate about joining with adult clients on their journey toward mental health recovery and wellness, whether the primary concerns are related to a new life change or to a longer-standing emotional or relational problem. I have worked in a variety of settings, including acute and longer-term inpatient care, VA, outpatient care, and college counseling. My approach to therapy is warm and compassionate, drawing primarily from cognitive behavioral therapies. My goal is to help my clients develop new coping skills and new ways of thinking about their situations, while also enhancing relational well-being through effective communication and boundaries. For clients who request it, I can integrate Christian faith into therapy.
I believe each person and their story is sacred, and none of us are meant to go through life alone. I feel honored when clients trust me with their story, allowing me to join with them on their journey for a season and to bear witness to both their pain and their progress.
Phone: (816) 371-7308
Email: sarah@beyondthestormkc.com
Kari Harris
Clinician (PLPC)
Let’s be honest – life can be really hard sometimes! My goal as a therapist is to provide a therapeutic relationship where people feel safe enough to be who they are and determine what it is they want for themselves as they navigate this life. Using evidenced-based therapy approaches, I collaborate with my clients to help them address past or present issues that they desire to work through. With a little grace, self-compassion, and the proper tools, I believe that you can learn to handle any storm that has come or will come your way.
Phone: (816) 586-4266
Email: kari@beyondthestormkc.com
Kari Harris
Let’s be honest – life can be really hard sometimes! My goal as a therapist is to provide a therapeutic relationship where people feel safe enough to be who they are and determine what it is they want for themselves as they navigate this life. Using evidenced-based therapy approaches, I collaborate with my clients to help them address past or present issues that they desire to work through. With a little grace, self-compassion, and the proper tools, I believe that you can learn to handle any storm that has come or will come your way.
Phone: (816) 586-4266
Email: kari@beyondthestormkc.com
Teresa Gomez
English/Spanish Speaking
With over 20 years of experience in non-profit education and mental health sectors, I have worked extensively with individuals and couples in both community mental health and private practice settings. My experience includes supporting clients with severe mental illnesses, co-occurring substance use disorders, personality disorders, and a wide range of life challenges. I pride myself on creating a safe, collaborative, and supportive environment that facilitates healing and growth. By working together, you will be empowered through awareness and self-exploration to make the changes needed to become the most authentic version of yourself.
As a Spanish-speaking bilingual clinician, I specialize in helping clients heal from trauma, including narcissistic abuse and intergenerational trauma, to stop toxic cycles. I also work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and hormonal issues such as PCOS, infertility, and menopause, viewing counseling as a holistic process. Using evidence-based techniques like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), we can address the hurt, shame, and betrayal that can shatter your happiness. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone; let’s work together not just to cope, but to truly heal.
Phone: (816) 934-5717
Email: teresa@beyondthestormkc.com
Cayla Billings
I am driven by working with children, adolescents, and adults who seek therapy to help them navigate life changes and challenges. I take a warm, empathetic, person-centered approach, allowing clients to guide the sessions and create a safe space to be vulnerable. I utilize cognitive behavioral, play therapy, and sand tray techniques to aid the client in navigating their experiences. It is my belief that people are the experts on their own lives, as I walk alongside them providing support. I have recently graduated with my master’s degree in counseling at Avila University. I have experience in community-based and school-based therapy. I strive to assist clients in identifying healthy coping skills, processing emotions, and building strong relationships.
Phone: (816) 327-6743
Email: cayla@beyondthestormkc.com
Cassie Anderson
Cassie specializes in perinatal mental health, birth trauma, and supporting parents as they navigate the emotional complexities of early parenthood. She utilizes an evidence-based approach that integrates attachment theory, trauma-informed care, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients find healing, confidence, and connection during the perinatal period. Cassie is passionate about helping parents break generational patterns, heal from their own mother wounds, and establish healthy boundaries within their families. With warmth and authenticity, her goal is to create a compassionate and safe space where clients can process their lived experiences, build resilience, and rediscover themselves in parenthood. You’re not too much. You’re not too late. You’re right on time.
Phone: (816) 422-5959
Email: cassie@beyondthestormkc.com
Teresa Gomez
English/Spanish Speaking
With over 20 years of experience in non-profit education and mental health sectors, I have worked extensively with individuals and couples in both community mental health and private practice settings. My experience includes supporting clients with severe mental illnesses, co-occurring substance use disorders, personality disorders, and a wide range of life challenges. I pride myself on creating a safe, collaborative, and supportive environment that facilitates healing and growth. By working together, you will be empowered through awareness and self-exploration to make the changes needed to become the most authentic version of yourself.
As a Spanish-speaking bilingual clinician, I specialize in helping clients heal from trauma, including narcissistic abuse and intergenerational trauma, to stop toxic cycles. I also work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and hormonal issues such as PCOS, infertility, and menopause, viewing counseling as a holistic process. Using evidence-based techniques like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), we can address the hurt, shame, and betrayal that can shatter your happiness. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone; let’s work together not just to cope, but to truly heal.
Phone: (816) 934-5717
Email: teresa@beyondthestormkc.com
Cayla Billings
I am driven by working with children, adolescents, and adults who seek therapy to help them navigate life changes and challenges. I take a warm, empathetic, person-centered approach, allowing clients to guide the sessions and create a safe space to be vulnerable. I utilize cognitive behavioral, play therapy, and sand tray techniques to aid the client in navigating their experiences. It is my belief that people are the experts on their own lives, as I walk alongside them providing support. I have recently graduated with my master’s degree in counseling at Avila University. I have experience in community-based and school-based therapy. I strive to assist clients in identifying healthy coping skills, processing emotions, and building strong relationships.
Phone: (816) 327-6743
Email: cayla@beyondthestormkc.com
Cassie Anderson
Cassie specializes in perinatal mental health, birth trauma, and supporting parents as they navigate the emotional complexities of early parenthood. She utilizes an evidence-based approach that integrates attachment theory, trauma-informed care, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients find healing, confidence, and connection during the perinatal period. Cassie is passionate about helping parents break generational patterns, heal from their own mother wounds, and establish healthy boundaries within their families. With warmth and authenticity, her goal is to create a compassionate and safe space where clients can process their lived experiences, build resilience, and rediscover themselves in parenthood. You’re not too much. You’re not too late. You’re right on time.
Phone: (816) 422-5959
Email: cassie@beyondthestormkc.com
Lauryn Paulus
Welcome! I am a warm, empathetic, and client-centered therapist who works with children (3+), adolescents, and families experiencing attachment challenges, trauma, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem concerns. I strive to foster a safe, inclusive space where every client feels seen, heard, and valued, approaching each session with compassion and a nonjudgmental presence. My counseling style is grounded in person-centered values and trauma-informed care, using evidence-based practices tailored to each client’s unique goals.
As a trained Play Therapist, pursuing my Registered Play Therapy credential, I specialize in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), a non-directive approach that honors play as the child’s natural language, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings in an empowering way. Whether through talk therapy or play, my ultimate aim is to support each individual in discovering their inner strengths and building a life of greater connection and resiliency.
Phone: (816) 375-4579
Email: lauryn@beyondthestormkc.com
Jeffrey Rabideaux
For 25 years, I served as a paramedic in Kansas City, working alongside first responders, military personnel, and frontline professionals in moments of crisis. That experience shaped my understanding of how stress and trauma imprint themselves on the mind and body. Now, as a psychodynamic and EMDR trained psychotherapist, and fellow first responder, I provide a unique space for people in high-stress roles (first responders, executives, healthcare workers, and veterans) uncover how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence their resilience, relationships, and ability to find peace off the clock.
My approach is grounded in specialized training from Northwestern University and is trauma-informed and neurologically aware. I integrate techniques that honor the connection between brain and body, from somatic awareness to psychodynamic principals. Because healing isn’t just about talking; its about helping your nervous system feel safe again.
Phone: 816-640-4528
Email: jeff@beyondthestormkc.com
Janese Williams
Hello, my name is Janese B. Williams. I’m in my third year of obtaining my master’s in counseling psychology degree from Avila University. I plan to go into private practice once fully licensed. I hope to specialize in teenagers and women facing mental health challenges. I’m a self published author and spoken word poet. I spend most of my free time with loved ones and catching up on rest.
Phone: (816) 429-0809
Email: janese@beyondthestormkc.com
Lila Rozell
I am a graduate student in Liberty University’s Clinical Mental Health program, preparing for licensure as a professional counselor. I am also a long-time critical care paramedic and EMS educator. My journey from caring for physical health to caring for mental health is a result of years of experience working alongside other first responders and caring for individuals and their families in times of crisis. I see the incredible resilience of the human spirit but also the need for support, empathy, and safety, especially in times of crisis and growth. I believe no one should face challenges in life alone.
People come to therapy for many reasons, and there is no one path to wellness just as there is no one reason people may come to therapy. Whatever it is that brings you in to therapy, know that you are embarking on an incredible journey of self-discovery and I am honored to be able to walk with you along the way, tailoring evidence-based approaches to meet your unique needs.
Phone: (816) 605-6703
Email: lila@beyondthestormkc.com
Richard Rowland
I am a graduate student currently obtaining my masters in counseling psychology at Avila university. One of my greatest motivations is getting the opportunity to be an empathetic listener and extending a helping hand to those who are facing life’s many challenges. Through overcoming and accepting the hardships of our journey, and shedding light on the fulfilling moments we make of it, hopefully we can come to find the destination all the more worthwhile.
Phone: (816) 323-8915
Email: richard@beyondthestormkc.com
Lauryn Paulus
Welcome! I am a warm, empathetic, and client-centered therapist who works with children (3+), adolescents, and families experiencing attachment challenges, trauma, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem concerns. I strive to foster a safe, inclusive space where every client feels seen, heard, and valued, approaching each session with compassion and a nonjudgmental presence. My counseling style is grounded in person-centered values and trauma-informed care, using evidence-based practices tailored to each client’s unique goals.
As a trained Play Therapist, pursuing my Registered Play Therapy credential, I specialize in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), a non-directive approach that honors play as the child’s natural language, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings in an empowering way. Whether through talk therapy or play, my ultimate aim is to support each individual in discovering their inner strengths and building a life of greater connection and resiliency.
Phone: (816) 375-4579
Email: lauryn@beyondthestormkc.com
Jeffrey Rabideaux
For 25 years, I served as a paramedic in Kansas City, working alongside first responders, military personnel, and frontline professionals in moments of crisis. That experience shaped my understanding of how stress and trauma imprint themselves on the mind and body. Now, as a psychodynamic and EMDR trained psychotherapist, and fellow first responder, I provide a unique space for people in high-stress roles (first responders, executives, healthcare workers, and veterans) uncover how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence their resilience, relationships, and ability to find peace off the clock.
My approach is grounded in specialized training from Northwestern University and is trauma-informed and neurologically aware. I integrate techniques that honor the connection between brain and body, from somatic awareness to psychodynamic principals. Because healing isn’t just about talking; its about helping your nervous system feel safe again.
Phone: 816-640-4528
Email: jeff@beyondthestormkc.com
Janese Williams
Hello, my name is Janese B. Williams. I’m in my third year of obtaining my master’s in counseling psychology degree from Avila University. I plan to go into private practice once fully licensed. I hope to specialize in teenagers and women facing mental health challenges. I’m a self published author and spoken word poet. I spend most of my free time with loved ones and catching up on rest.
Phone: (816) 429-0809
Email: janese@beyondthestormkc.com
Lila Rozell
I am a graduate student in Liberty University’s Clinical Mental Health program, preparing for licensure as a professional counselor. I am also a long-time critical care paramedic and EMS educator. My journey from caring for physical health to caring for mental health is a result of years of experience working alongside other first responders and caring for individuals and their families in times of crisis. I see the incredible resilience of the human spirit but also the need for support, empathy, and safety, especially in times of crisis and growth. I believe no one should face challenges in life alone.
People come to therapy for many reasons, and there is no one path to wellness just as there is no one reason people may come to therapy. Whatever it is that brings you in to therapy, know that you are embarking on an incredible journey of self-discovery and I am honored to be able to walk with you along the way, tailoring evidence-based approaches to meet your unique needs.
Phone: (816) 605-6703
Email: lila@beyondthestormkc.com
Richard Rowland
I am a graduate student currently obtaining my masters in counseling psychology at Avila university. One of my greatest motivations is getting the opportunity to be an empathetic listener and extending a helping hand to those who are facing life’s many challenges. Through overcoming and accepting the hardships of our journey, and shedding light on the fulfilling moments we make of it, hopefully we can come to find the destination all the more worthwhile.
Phone: (816) 323-8915
Email: richard@beyondthestormkc.com
Tori Ammons
As our dedicated on-site administrative coordinator, Tori warmly welcomes clients when they arrive at our office. She also handles office inventory management, addresses administrative needs, and ensures efficient communication between our clients and office staff.
Phone: 816-427-1337
Email: admin@beyondthestormkc.com
Tori Ammons
As our dedicated on-site administrative coordinator, Tori warmly welcomes clients when they arrive at our office. She also handles office inventory management, addresses administrative needs, and ensures efficient communication between our clients and office staff.
Phone: 816-427-1337
Email: admin@beyondthestormkc.com
Jessica Rocker
Jessica leads and supports the administrative team, ensuring that every interaction reflects our mission, values, and commitment to compassionate, trauma-informed care. Her role ensures that our clients and clinicians are supported with excellence from the very first point of contact.
Phone: 816-427-1337
Email: jessica@beyondthestormkc.com
Jessica Rocker
Jessica leads and supports the administrative team, ensuring that every interaction reflects our mission, values, and commitment to compassionate, trauma-informed care. Her role ensures that our clients and clinicians are supported with excellence from the very first point of contact.
Phone: 816-427-1337
Email: jessica@beyondthestormkc.com
Contact Us
Main Office
Lee's Summit (Satellite Office)
