STAFF & THERAPISTS
Amy Blackwell
Executive Director
Amy Blackwell is the Executive Director at Compassion Counseling, has a Bachelor’s in Business with a specialization in leadership and Management and Leadership, and stands as a certified professional committed to advancing mental health. Amy holds certifications as a Family Support Specialist in Tennessee, a Family Peer Specialist nationally, and a Trauma Support Specialist certified by the Trauma Institute International. Her exemplary contributions were acknowledged as a recipient of Reclaiming Children’s Award from the National Federation of Families in 2021.
Amy’s journey is not just a professional one; it’s a personal born out of love, experience, and an unwavering commitment to fostering compassionate understanding around mental health issues. As the Executive Director at Compassion Counseling, Amy continues to lead with empathy, dedication, and a vision for a future where mental health challenges are met with understanding, support, and healing.
Amy Jackson, NCC
Therapist
Amy grew up in Southwest Virginia and traveled to various parts of the country as an adult before deciding to follow her passion in mental health. She graduated from Maryville College with a BA in Psychology in 2006. She then earned her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands in 2021. She is a Nationally Certified Counselor by the National Board of Certified Counselors. She has 18 years of experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and Borderline Personality Disorder. She is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She has the most experience working with adults, ages 25 and older. Amy follows a person-centered and holistic approach but uses various interventions from other approaches as needed during the therapeutic process. She has a passion for empowering individuals from all cultures to find their own strengths, resiliency, and sense of well-being.
Matthew moved to Tennessee from Phoenix, AZ in Early 2016. He has been married to his wife for 17 years and has 2 adult children living in different states. he received his BSW from Northern Arizona University. He loves helping veterans and does Volunteer work for Mission 22, Stop Soldier Suicide and the Valhalla Project. Matthew has been at Compassion Counseling for 2 years.
Suzanne Stratton, LCSW
Clinical Supervisor
Over the past 26 years, Suzanne has worked with children, families, and the elderly In hospital, home, and school settings. Now she serves as Compassion Counseling’s Clinical Supervisor. She has both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in social work from the University of Tennessee. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has a School Social Work Certification. Suzanne has served in leadership capacities as President of the Tennessee Association of School Social Workers and Knox Branch Chair of the National Association of Social Workers. She is passionate about providing quality services to clients and the mission of Compassion Counseling.
Felix is a dedicated professional with a diverse background and holds a degree in pharmacy from National University College in Puerto Rico. Married father of three boys, he brings a nurturing and empathetic approach to his work in healthcare and pharmaceutical sciences. Felix is a retired baseball player who spent 13 seasons in the Puerto Rico Professional Baseball League. After his playing career, he coached youth baseball and high school for 20 years, showcasing his leadership and ability to inspire young athletes. He also has experience working with special needs children, reflecting his commitment to inclusivity and specialized education. Felix is fluent in both English and Spanish, which has enhanced his ability to communicate and build relationships in diverse settings. With experience in sports, education, healthcare, and administration, he is a well-rounded professional with a proven track record. His dedication to his family, work, and community highlights his qualities as a compassionate leader.
Madeline Cunningham
MSSW Intern
Maddie, from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is completing her MSSW at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. With a focus on trauma-informed care, Maddie is also earning a Trauma Treatment Certificate. Her academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Arts in Development Psychology, with a concentration in Child Trauma and Resilience, from Maryville College, where she also minored in Deaf and Sign Language Studies. Maddie’s previous hands-on experience include field placements with Covenant Health Homecare and Hospice and Harmony Family Center’s Equine Therapy Program, where she gained valuable skills in assessment, therapy techniques, and trauma-informed interventions. At Compassion Counseling, Maddie is passionate about utilizing evidence-based practices to empower her clients and support thier emotional well-being. Maddie is looking forward to continuing her journey in clinical social work, helping individuals heal from trauma and achieve their mental health goals.
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