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.
Allese Renee - LPC, ATR-P, CTRS, MA,
Hey! My name is Allese
I believe therapy is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth—and my role is to walk alongside you with compassion and creativity.
My approach is eclectic, meaning I draw from multiple therapeutic frameworks—such as narrative therapy, psychodynamic work, and client-centered practices—tailoring each session to fit your unique needs. I also honor spiritual perspectives when requested, integrating prayer, scripture, and faith-based support in a way that aligns with your personal beliefs.
As a trained art therapist, I bring the power of creativity into counseling for those who are open to it. Art therapy is not about creating “perfect” pieces—it’s about using mediums like painting, photography, poetry, movement, or clay as tools to express, process, and heal when words alone aren’t enough. For some, this opens new pathways of understanding; for others, it provides a safe and playful way to reconnect with themselves.
Beyond my clinical work, I’m passionate about creativity in daily life. I enjoy reading, writing poetry, cooking, making art, and spending time with animals. Having traveled across the United States before finding home in South Carolina, I bring a broad perspective, cultural sensitivity, and openness to every client’s story.
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.
Diana Kickery, LMSW, MSW
Hey, I’m Diana—a Licensed Master Social Worker passionate about helping youth, families, and communities find healing and connection. I began my journey into social work during the COVID-19 pandemic, after years of feeling called to this work but not having the opportunity. That leap has allowed me to focus on what matters most: creating safe, supportive spaces where people can be heard, understood, and empowered.
I especially enjoy working with children, teens, and families navigating difficult circumstances. My passion lies in supporting LGBTQ+ youth, particularly those experiencing rejection or family conflict, and helping families reconnect through compassion and acceptance. Alongside family counseling, I also integrate psychoeducation—teaching skills in self-regulation, coping, and conflict resolution to strengthen resilience and confidence.
My therapeutic style is eclectic—I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I listen deeply, meet clients where they are, and adapt strategies to their unique needs. I also work closely with parents, helping them recognize how their own patterns may impact their child’s well-being. Above all, I believe therapy is a process of discovery and growth, best approached with patience, empathy, and understanding.
Whether you’re a young person finding your way, a parent seeking to better connect, or a family in transition, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and care.
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.
Kirsten Magee, B.A., Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies - Office Admin
Kirsten Magee brings over five years of expertise in office management, medical billing and coding, and administrative support to her role at Magnolia Counseling Solutions. With a passion for creating smooth, positive experiences for both clients and clinicians, she ensures the behind-the-scenes details of our practice run seamlessly.
Her background includes customer success, operational coordination, and software integration, giving her the tools to streamline systems, maintain accurate records, and support client engagement with care and precision. Kirsten’s skill in medical billing and coding ensures efficiency and accuracy in handling insurance claims and financial processes, while her attention to detail and organizational strengths keep daily operations running with ease.
Known for her thoroughness, resourcefulness, and commitment to excellence, Kirsten balances strategic problem-solving with a welcoming presence that helps every client feel supported from the moment they connect with Magnolia. Beyond administration, she is also creative at heart—bringing talents in illustration, writing, and crafting into her personal mission of making the world a brighter, more compassionate place.
Kirsten plays a vital role in ensuring that our therapists can focus on what matters most: providing a nurturing and intuitive experience for every client who walks through our doors.
🌿A piece of Magnolia 🌿
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