Sunny Days Therapeutics
(706) 883-5300
Sunny Days Therapeutics
(706) 883-5300

Meet our Team

Therapists

Amy Simmons, LCSW

Clinical Director
Teen & Adult Therapist
 
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Amy Simmons

Amy Simmons is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has a passion for serving and genuinely loves helping other people. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Concord University in Athens, West Virginia in 2013 and Master’s Degree in Social Work from West Virginia University in 2015. She completed internships in both out-patient and in-patient settings. Her background includes working with adult and adolescent patients. She most often conducts individual therapy sessions but also has experience with couples and groups.

Amy has experience working with individuals with special needs and issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+, gender identity and sexual orientation. She has experience is using a variety of treatment modalities and is excited to schedule an appointment to conduct an initial assessment and develop a person-centered treatment plan, that will help you meet your mental health goals. At this time, therapy sessions will be conducted via telehealth.

When not working, Amy enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter and family. She enjoys spending time outdoors, trying new things and going on adventures.

Amy's Bio

Valerie McGuinness, LCSW

Clinical Supervisor

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Valerie McGuinness

Valerie McGuinness is a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about helping people live an authentic life that they love. By joining people where they currently are, Valerie teaches practical skills and techniques for communication, emotional regulation, and processing past traumas.

Valerie completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Georgia in 2006 and her Masters in Social Work in 2012. After working in a variety of settings, Valerie has settled into being a trauma focused therapist and mentor for developing therapists. Valerie has trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR (2019), Polyvagal Theory, Trauma Focused CBT, and completed yoga teacher training (2014).

In her free time, she enjoys crafts, gardening, memes, cats, and live music.

Valerie's Bio

Amber Miller, LPMT

Music Therapist
 
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Amber Miller

Amber began her career as an elementary school music teacher in 2014 after graduating Georgia Southern University. She continued teaching until 2017, when she moved to Athens to pursue her Bachelor’s Equivalency in Music Therapy at the University of Georgia. This culminated in an internship at The George Center in Roswell, GA. 

Amber has experience leading music therapy in groups and with individuals from many walks of life. She has worked with seniors in memory care, children and young adults with Autism, preschool-aged children, and more. Additionally, she is trained in Remo’s HealthRHYTHMS program. She is passionate about making music accessible to anyone, and in presuming competence in her clients.

When not making music, Amber enjoys snuggling her pugs, geocaching, and playing D&D with her friends.

Amber M's Bio

Darryl Walker, LMSW

School-Based Teen Therapist
 
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Darryl Walker

Darryl Walker Jr. is a Licensed Master Social worker. He earned his Master’s of Social Work degree from the University of Alabama and received his Bachelor’s of Social Work degree from Oakwood University. He approaches each client with empathy and respect, with the goal of supporting them in navigating complex challenges. In his spare time he enjoys spending time with his wife, son, and extended family, playing basketball, and going fishing.

His favorite quote is, “take everything one day at a time.”

Darryl's Bio

Davida Workman, LMSW

Teen and Adult Therapist

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Davida Workman

Davida is an Army veteran, wife and mother of 2 daughters and 2 bonus sons. During her time in the service she served as a Sexual Harassment / Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Representative. After leaving the Army, she served as a Nationally Credentialed Domestic Violence Victim Advocate at Fort Stewart, GA for military soldiers and their families. Since 2021, she has dedicated her time working with the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) to ensure the safety, permanency, and wellbeing of children and families in foster care.

Davida Workman obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University in 2015, and a Master of Social Work from Simmons University in Boston, MA in 2021. She has experience with CBT, TF-CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused therapy modalities.

Davida's Bio

Elisa Guzman, MSW

Bilingual Teen & Adult Therapist

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Elisa Guzman

Elisa Guzman is a client-centered social worker who offers individual therapy rooted in collaboration, empowerment, and a deep respect for each person’s lived experience.

She earned her Bachelor of Science from Georgia State University in 2019 and her Master of Social Work in 2025, where she pursued a combined focus in clinical practice and policy. She has facilitated workshops at the University of Georgia, teaching practical skills and therapeutic techniques to support emotional well-being.

Elisa is trained in DBT, ACT, CBT, TF-CBT, and other evidence-based modalities. She has experience supporting individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, emotional regulation, identity development, relationship issues, low self-esteem, and stress.

Her therapeutic style is strengths-based, empathetic, compassionate, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, collaborative space where clients can explore, heal, and build resilience at their own pace. Elisa feels it is an honor to walk alongside clients as they navigate life’s challenges and work toward growth.

When she’s not in session, Elisa enjoys spending time with her son, baking, reading, building Lego sets, gardening, coloring, and appreciating nature, especially the rain.

Elisa's Bio

Jasmin Mata-Sanchez, MSW

Bilingual Child Therapist
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Jasmin Mata-Sanchez

Jasmin is a client-centered child mental health therapist who offers individual therapy rooted in collaboration, empowerment, and a deep respect for each person’s lived experience. She provides a supportive space that highlights client strengths while fostering growth and resilience. 

She earned her Bachelor of Social Work in 2024 and her Master of Social Work in 2025 from the University of Georgia. Through her academic and clinical training, she developed a strong foundation in evidence-based practice and child and family mental health. 

Jasmin is trained in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, and ACT. She has experience working with clients of all ages who are navigating depression, anxiety, stress, mental illness, and other life challenges. She also has experience facilitating group therapy and providing individual therapy sessions in Spanish. 

Her therapeutic style is strengths-based, empathetic, culturally competent, and grounded in active listening. She strives to create a safe, collaborative environment where children and families feel heard, understood, and supported as they work toward their goals. 

Outside of her work as a therapist, Jasmin enjoys doing crafts, spending time with her cats, reading, playing video games, and watching movies.

 

 

 

Jasmin's Bio

Joyce Hethcox, MSW

Child, Teen & Adult Therapist
 
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Joyce Heathcox

Joyce Hethcox obtained her Master of Social Work degree (with a clinical focus) from the University of Georgia in 2025. She also holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from Georgia State University.

Joyce has experience co-facilitating remote psycho education for couples, providing group and individual therapy in women’s residential treatment and recovery, providing individual therapy with children, teens and adults in the public mental health sector and has worked in providing arts education with children and teens in under-resourced communities. Her education, work and life experiences have taught her about trauma-informed practices, CBT, DBT, EFT, narrative therapy and art modalities as pathways to creating safety and access to healing growth towards personal goals.

Outside of therapy rooms, Joyce is an artist who uses a camera to explore the subject of complex relational dynamics through photographing dogs. She also enjoys knitting, building fires, drinking coffee, listening to audiobooks and walking in the woods.

Joyce's Bio

Kayla Moultrie, LMSW

Teen and Adult Therapist
 
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Kayla's Bio

Kayla began her career in Social Work in 2013 after receiving an Associate’s of Arts degree in Social Work. To further her education she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, with a minor in Psychology; while receiving certificates in Social Services and Cultural Diversity all from the University of West Georgia. Soon after she received her Master’s Degree (MSW) from University of Southern California with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Families.

She is a mental health therapist and social worker with 10+ years of experience working with at- risk youth and young adults in residential, behavioral health, and supportive housing settings. Her work is grounded in trauma-informed care and evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, with a strong commitment to DEI and ethical practice. She has also held leadership roles in operations and lead multidisciplinary care teams. She is always striving to further strengthen her clinical practice, leadership skills, and ethical foundation in social work.

In her free time to enjoys reading, watching true crime documentaries and going to the gym & pilates.

Kayla's Bio

Kryss Kenneth, LMSW

Child Therapist
 
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Kryss Kenneth

Kryss Kenneth obtained her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Boston University in 2023, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree from The University of Georgia in 2020. While at Boston University, Kryss pursued the clinical track of her program and specialized in Children, Youth, and Families.

Kryss has experience working in a domestic violence shelter, a high school, a teen center, and an LGBTQ+ mental health clinic. Through her work and educational experiences, she has learned how to engage with clients in a trauma-informed and age-appropriate manner. Through a combination of treatment modalities like CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, play and art therapy, social emotional learning, and more, Kryss is prepared to guide clients to their goals.

When she’s able to spend time outdoors, Kryss enjoys gardening flowers and vegetables, hiking, skateboarding, roller-blading, and taking on DIY projects. When she’s hanging out indoors she enjoys cooking, baking, rock tumbling, and spending time with her cats and family.

Kryss's Bio

Ramou Jalloh, MSW

Child Therapist

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Ramou Jalloh

Ramou is a client-centered social worker who provides therapeutic support grounded in collaboration, empowerment, and respect for each individual’s unique life experiences. She is committed to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges while fostering emotional growth, resilience, and overall well-being.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Human Services from the University of North Georgia and her Master of Science in Social Work from Walden University, where she obtained a certification in Medical Social Work. Ramou has experience working in behavioral health, child welfare, educational settings, and community-based services, supporting diverse populations across the lifespan. She has also obtained her Associate’s degree with Early Childhood Education with The University of North Georgia . 
Ramou is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing. She has experience supporting individuals navigating trauma, life transitions, emotional and behavioral challenges, stress, and difficulties with emotional regulation and social functioning. Her clinical work includes group therapy, supporting crisis-prevention interventions, and implementing client-centered strategies that promote practical coping skills and personal growth.
Her therapeutic style is strengths-based, compassionate, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their experiences and build resilience at their own pace. 
Outside of her professional work, Ramou enjoys doing word searches, watching movies, listening to podcasts, and completing puzzles. She values activities that promote relaxation, curiosity, and balance, which help her remain grounded and present in the work she d
Ramou's Bio

Sentoria Green, LMSW

Child, Teen & Adult Therapist

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Sentoria Green

Sentoria is an Army veteran, a wife, and a mother of four. After serving in the military for nearly 11 years, she returned to education as an adult learner. She earned an Associate in Arts degree from Midlands Technical College in 2020, a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Columbia College in 2022, and a Master’s in Social Work-Clinical Track from Campbellsville University in 2023.

With a deep passion for service, Sentoria is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities. She combines a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, to help clients navigate their challenges and reach their full potential. While she has experience working with children and perinatal populations, she welcomes clients from all walks of life.

Outside of her professional life, Sentoria enjoys crocheting, reading, listening to true crime podcasts, and exploring nature trails.

Sentoria's Bio

Tashara Roberts, LMSW

Teen & Adult Therapist

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Tashara Roberts

Hi, I’m Tashara, a Licensed Master Social Worker from New Jersey. I earned my degree from Clark Atlanta University, and I’ve always had a passion for helping others grow and discover their inner strength. Over the years, I’ve worked as a crisis counselor, group facilitator, and behavioral health therapist, supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and creating a safe for a supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered. Outside of my work, I enjoy watching sports and taking part in adventurous activities that keep me active and grounded. I truly believe in the power of connection, self-discovery, and personal growth. I’m dedicated to helping others build the confidence and tools they need to thrive.

Tashara's Bio

Leadership

Amber Buchanan

Founder/Chief Executive Officer

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Amber Buchanan

Amber Buchanan, founder and CEO of Sunny Days Therapeutics, earned her Bachelor of Science in Business from a small private college in West Virginia. Despite her degree being in business, she has always had a passion for helping others. During the onset of the pandemic, Amber engaged in some soul-searching and realized she wanted to dedicate herself full-time to helping individuals within her community and surrounding areas.

Seeing a pressing need for enhanced mental health support in her community, Amber took the initiative to make a difference. She sold her home to cover the startup costs for Sunny Days, hired administrative staff and therapists, and secured an ideal location to establish a new mental health practice.

Over the past few years, Sunny Days has evolved and expanded, becoming a vital resource for mental health support in the Athens and Watkinsville communities. The connections formed, the support from the community, the dedication of the therapists and staff, and, most importantly, the patients, are truly what makes this journey worthwhile.

Amber hopes that Sunny Days will continue to thrive and support those in and around her communities for many years to come.

Amber B's Bio

Corey Starks

Chief Operating Officer

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Corey Starks

Corey Starks brings extensive leadership experience in behavioral health, having owned and operated multiple residential programs for youth and outpatient counseling centers across Arizona. His hands-on experience building, scaling, and overseeing services has given him a practical, results-driven understanding of what it takes to deliver high-quality care.As a former Chief Operating Officer for mid-sized outpatient organizations, Corey has led operational improvements, implemented quality management systems, and strengthened regulatory compliance. He is also skilled at building high-performing teams, developing effective onboarding and training processes, and supporting staff retention through clear expectations and sustainable workflows.Corey’s entrepreneurial track record includes launching new clinical programs, navigating complex licensing and regulatory requirements, and driving strategic growth. He is known for fostering strong community relationships and creating partnerships that expand access to care and strengthen the organizations he serves.Corey is proud to be part of the Sunny Days team and is committed to supporting its mission through disciplined leadership, collaboration, and a deep passion for behavioral health and community impact.

Corey's Bio

Administration

Jennifer Smith

Office Manager

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Jennifer Smith

Jennifer currently lives in the Athens area, where she enjoys spending time with her three children and three fur babies. She enjoys keeping active with outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, and tubing. She also enjoys refurbishing old wooden furniture- considering it a personal form of therapy. 

Jennifer has worked in medical administration for many years, and she loves her career and helping others!

Jenn's Bio

Erika Lachica

HR Professional and Recruiter

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Erika Lachica

Erika is based in the Philippines and earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from St. Paul University Manila. Her background in psychology shapes how she connects with people, listens with care, and approaches her work empathy and intention. As an HR professional and recruiter, she is passionate about creating positive and supportive experiences for everyone she works with.

Joining the Sunny Days team has been especially meaningful for Erika. She is deeply aligned with the mission to promote holistic wellness, connection, and compassionate support not only for the individuals Sunny Days serves, but also for the team members who make that work possible. Collaborating with a purpose-driven and caring team allows her to help create brighter days, both within the organization and beyond it.

Outside of work, Erika enjoys spending time with family and friends, whether that means sharing meals, staying in for movie nights, or traveling when she can. She loves playing with her three pawsome dogs and values making time to rest, recharge, and care for her own well-being.

Erika's Bio

Kim Nebreja

Intake Specialist

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Kim Nebreja

Kim Nebreja is an Intake Specialist at Sunny Days Therapeutics and a strong advocate for mental health awareness and accessibility. As one of the first points of contact for individuals and families seeking care, Kim is dedicated to creating a supportive, welcoming, and stress-free intake experience. She assists with scheduling, intake coordination, and initial questions, helping clients feel comfortable and supported from their very first interaction with the practice.

Outside of work, Kim enjoys running and is both a marathoner and obstacle course racer. She believes that mental and physical wellness go hand in hand and values balance, resilience, and personal growth—principles she brings into her work each day.

Kim's Bio

Independent clinicians affiliated with Sunny Days Therapeutics. Scheduling, records, and billing are managed through Sunny Days.

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