Counseling Center Staff

Molly DeWalt, M.S., LMHC
Director & Counselor
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
mdewalt@whitworth.edu 

M.S., Counseling Psychology, Eastern Washington University
B.A., Clinical Psychology, Smith College

Former employment: Emergency psychiatric triage counselor at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, Inland Psychiatry, Private Practice

"As people grow and go through periods of change, it is not uncommon for them to feel their life is unraveling or to feel off center. My goal is to help my clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships. My therapeutic style is primarily cognitive behavioral using strength based, solution-focused techniques.

Prior to coming to Whitworth, I spent 25 years as an emergency psychiatric triage counselor in the emergency room at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center. During that time, I also worked as an outpatient therapist primarily with emerging adults at Inland Psychiatry and Psychology for five years.

I am certified as an ESA school counselor and am a trained Love and Logic facilitator. I have extensive training in suicide risk assessment through ASIST and AMSR."

Chad Hamasaki, M.ED., LMHC
Counselor
Mental Health Counselor
chamasaki@whitworth.edu

M.Ed., Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Whitworth University
B.A., Psychology, Whitworth University 

Former employment: Counselor at Tamarack Center in Spokane; Crisis Intervention Specialist at Frontier Behavioral Health in Spokane

"Over the course of my 27-year career in the mental health field I have always believed that everyone needs help at some point in their life. The college years are full of changes, transformations and challenges – it is a very natural point to ask for that help. My goal has been to lend that hand, using primarily person centered and cognitive behavioral therapeutic approaches. I have worked with clients across the age spectrum, primarily in crisis resolution, stabilization and safety assessment. I believe that people want to be heard, respected and empowered. Through this, they can safely process, heal and grow. 

As a former collegiate athlete, I understand the demands of balancing athletics, academics, expectations and social demands.

I am Native Hawaiian and appreciate that everyone has their own culture. I feel very blessed that Ke Akua (the Lord) has brought me back to my alma mater to help those in the Whitworth ohana (family)."

Maja LeBon, M.S., LMHC
Counselor
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
mlebon@whitworth.edu

M.S., Applied Psychology: Mental Health Counseling Emphasis, Eastern Washington University
B.A., Philosophy, Gonzaga University

Former Employment: Mental health counselor at Children's Home Society of Washington (Child and Family), eating disorder technician and mental health counselor at The Emily Program, private practice

"I was drawn to the counseling profession because it allows me to combine my love for people with my love for creative problem-solving and seeking a deeper understanding of why we do and think the way we do. My experience includes work with people of all ages with a diverse range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image concerns and trauma.

My therapeutic style combines a few different modalities, including person-centered counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and Lifespan Integration (LI). Above any specific theory, I deeply value relationship. I believe that people have an amazing capacity for change and often just need a safe space in which to discover and overcome barriers to positive growth. It is very important to me to understand (and help you to clarify) the values that guide your life and integrate them into our therapeutic work. I seek to be flexible in finding the best way to help you move toward a healthy and value-driven life.

Outside of work, I am a mom to three busy kids and wife to my husband. I love running, biking and swimming, so I've taken on triathlons in the last few years. I get so much out of the journey in training and racing, but I also love recovering well with rest, play, family time and good food. I have felt so at home at Whitworth and feel truly blessed to get to serve the community here."

Sophia (Sophie) Miller, M.A., LMHC
Counselor
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
sophiamiller@whitworth.edu 

M.A., Community Counseling, Washington State University
B.S, Intensive Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz

Former employment: Counselor and Health Awareness Team Coordinator at Washington State University, Counselor at WSU Spokane campus

"Every individual has a unique life story, and a unique path they are taking. Every individual has different experiences they have been through, and different relationships that have helped mold who they are and how they interact with the world. My job as your counselor is to come along side you, as an individual, and help you sort through different aspects, struggles, and challenges in your life. My therapeutic approach is interpersonal process therapy, under the methodology of Edward Teyber, which incorporates object-relations, attachment theory, family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have specific training and experience working with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal issues. I have been practicing counseling since 2010, all within the college counseling setting. I believe that every individual is different, and that their needs, strengths, and life struggles are also different. Therefore, every counseling experience is unique, and I greatly enjoy every opportunity to join another person in a segment of their journey through life."

Karina Smith, M.A., LMHCA
Counselor
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
karinasmith@whitworth.edu

B.A., Psychology, Gonzaga University
M.A., Mental Health Counseling, Gonzaga University

Are you facing something that makes you feel confused, overwhelmed, hopeless or just stuck? Sometimes, you know you don’t feel your best but don't know how to label the emotions or what to change to feel better. More so, these emotions can impact your day-to-day well-being and performance, and you may not understand why. I am a former dual-sport athlete in cross country and track, providing me a unique perspective in the counseling chair. I am dedicated to helping students and individuals navigate the intricate intersection of sports, relationships, academics and mental well-being, playing a valuable role in the mental health field and university setting.

I primarily utilize therapeutic techniques rooted in a Person-Centered approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness. My therapeutic interests include anxiety and depression disorders, adjustment and grief, athletes and sports, and relationship challenges. It is my goal to create a safe space so that collaboratively you and I can work through past and present hardships and utilize your strengths to reach your goals. Let's get started together!

Kassie Hillhouse
Counselor Intern

I am a current Marriage & Family Therapy graduate student at Whitworth University. I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method couples therapy, aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing. Prior to this role, I worked as a clinician in a community mental health setting, where I gained valuable experience supporting individuals in acute distress and navigating complex mental health needs. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed and person-centered. I strive to create a safe and supportive space where all individuals feel heard, respected and empowered. My core values as a clinician include autonomy, respect, and fostering an authentic connection between myself and my clients. I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including individuals of varying ages, gender identities, sexual orientations and ethno-racial backgrounds. I strive to create an affirming and culturally responsive space for all clients.

When I am not at work, I typically spend time with my family, friends and pets. I enjoy reading, crocheting, playing video games and spending time outside. 

Julian Theuringer
Counselor Intern

I am currently pursuing my Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy here at Whitworth. As a family man and lifelong learner, the journey from childhood, adolescence and early adulthood has become a passion of mine throughout my career. College students are the movers and shapers of the future and face diverse choices and challenges as they become emerging adults. My goal is for young people to become more of who they are and have peace within themselves. My own personal faith has played a major part of my journey as a person and informs much of my desire to help others grow and develop.

When I am not seeing clients on Whitworth’s campus or attending classes, I am usually spending time with my wife and children, as well as spending quality time with friends, relatives and church family. I enjoy cooking, reading, gaming and having good conversation.

Kip (the dog!)

Kip is associated with Pet Partners, which states on their website: "We believe that the human-animal bond is a mutually beneficial relationship that improves the physical, social and emotional lives of those we serve. We are motivated by connection, compassion and a commitment to sharing this meaningful bond with everyone who can benefit from time spent with an animal."  Kip is also a certified “Hope Dog” – “trained for comfort in times of crisis.”

Kip is available in the counseling center one afternoon a month. He stays in the conference room and students are able to schedule a 15-minute session with him individually or with a group. Kip is accompanied by his handler.  

If you have questions about how to schedule an "appointment" with Kip or would like to find out more information, please call counseling services at 509.777.3259 x2.