Our Team: A Nurturing and Intuitive Experience
Nita Cochran - Founder - LPC-S, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, M.Ed.,
Hi, I’m Nita—the founder of Magnolia Counseling Solutions and a Licensed Professional Counselor in both South Carolina and North Carolina. For more than 13 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. Each client’s story reminds me of the resilience we carry and the hope that emerges when we’re given the space to heal.
My journey in mental health began as an after-school counselor, supporting middle school students in their academic, social, and emotional growth. That early experience sparked a lifelong passion for helping people—especially during times of transition, uncertainty, and change. Motivated to expand my impact, I earned a Master’s in Counselor Education from The Citadel Graduate College, with a specialization in Secondary Education, and went on to broaden my work to serve clients across all stages of life.
Today, my approach is both holistic and compassionate—rooted in the belief that healing is personal and that each client deserves care that honors their unique story. Whether you’re managing anxiety, navigating life transitions, seeking balance in relationships, or simply needing a safe, supportive space, my goal is to meet you where you are and help you reconnect with what brings you peace, purpose, and joy.
At Magnolia, our mission is simple yet powerful: to provide a nurturing and intuitive counseling experience where healing feels possible and growth feels within reach. It’s an honor to hold space for every person who entrusts us with their journey.
Veronica Rector - LPC, M.Ed
Hey! Glad to meet you here, I'm Veronica!!!I believe every person’s story matters—and within each story lies the possibility for strength, healing, and growth. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Winthrop University, I have been honored to walk alongside individuals on their mental health journeys since 2016.
My professional experience includes both school-based counseling and work with the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, where I supported individuals navigating complex challenges such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma. These experiences have shaped my belief in the power of human connection and the importance of meeting each client with respect, empathy, and curiosity.
In my work, I integrate approaches such as narrative therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients process emotional pain, reframe limiting beliefs, and develop healthier thought patterns. My goal is always to create an accepting and affirming environment, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences and empowered to move toward the life they want.
For me, it is a true privilege to support the growth and change of those in my community. Wherever you are on your journey—whether seeking clarity, healing, or simply a space to be heard—I look forward to walking alongside you at your pace, in your way.
Alyssa Hajjar Hines, MSW, LCSW, LCASA
Alyssa Hajjar is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate who has joined our team at Magnolia Counseling Solutions as a Mental Health Therapist. Alyssa is passionate about creating an intuitive, nurturing, and emotionally safe space where clients feel genuinely heard, supported, and empowered in their healing journey.
Alyssa brings extensive experience across outpatient, hospital, community, and correctional mental health settings. Most recently, she served as a Psychotherapist and Program Coordinator with Atrium Health, where she provided individual and group therapy within the behavioral health department . In this role, she completed comprehensive psychosocial assessments, developed individualized treatment plans, facilitated group therapy utilizing DBT and the Transdiagnostic Unified Protocol, and collaborated closely with interdisciplinary teams to ensure holistic, high-quality care .
Throughout her career, Alyssa has worked with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, life transitions, trauma, crisis situations, and complex systemic stressors. Her background as a Clinical Social Worker with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety further strengthened her ability to support clients through significant life changes, coordinate community resources, and provide compassionate care in high-stress environments .
Alyssa believes that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. She partners with clients to understand their unique experiences, strengths, and goals. Her approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and rooted in evidence-based practices
At Magnolia Counseling Solutions, Alyssa looks forward to walking alongside individuals and families as they cultivate resilience, clarity, and meaningful change.
Faith Speaks, Ph.D., LPC-A
Hi, I’m Faith—a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with a Ph.D. and a deep commitment to bridging the worlds of research, teaching, and direct practice. My journey in mental health began with a passion for community development and advocacy, and over the years I’ve had the privilege of working as a graduate-level counseling educator, community agency counselor, and advocate for accessible care.
After years of focusing on teaching and systemic change, I returned to direct practice through intensive in-home counseling, reconnecting with the day-to-day realities of individuals and families navigating stress, trauma, and transition. This experience reignited my belief in the importance of psychoeducation, practical coping skills, and community support as essential tools for healing.
My therapeutic style is flexible and human-centered. I avoid one-size-fits-all methods, instead listening deeply to clients’ stories and adapting my approach to their unique needs. I believe meaningful therapy comes from building genuine, respectful connections—and empowering clients with the tools and insights that help them thrive.
At Magnolia Counseling Solutions, I look forward to combining my background in education, research, and counseling with a nurturing and intuitive approach that meets you exactly where you are. Whether you’re facing personal struggles, family challenges, or searching for a safe space to be heard, I’m here to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and hope.