About Us

Optimum Wellness: Our Mission

At Optimum Wellness, our mission is to enhance mental health awareness and improve access to treatment and services for individuals living with mental illness. We strive to empower and promote personal wellness through an accessible, comprehensive, integrated, and evidence-based approach to mental health care.

Optimum Wellness Staff - Belleville, IL

Who We Are

We are a dedicated team of mental health professionals, including licensed nurse practitioners, therapists, counselors, and support staff, committed to providing compassionate and effective care. Our team members bring diverse expertise and a shared passion for helping individuals achieve mental wellness.

What We Do

We offer a wide range of mental health services, including psychopharmacological, individual, and group therapy, as well as specialized programs for various mental health conditions. Our approach is holistic, integrating evidence-based practices with personalized care to meet each client’s unique needs.

Why We Do It

At Optimum Wellness, we believe that mental health is vital to overall well-being. Our commitment to this field stems from a deep desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. We are dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and providing support to those in need.

Meet Our Staff

Optimum Wellness Staff - Brandy Eichelberger - Belleville, IL

Brandy Eichelberger

I am Brandy, the founder of Optimum Wellness—a premier mental health clinic committed to balance, stability, and healing. I am a dual-certified, board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), licensed to practice in Illinois, Missouri, and Arizona.

With over 20 years of experience in mental health, I bring both expertise and genuine compassion to every session. I provide evidence-based care for children, adolescents, and adults, tailoring my approach to meet their unique needs across diverse treatment settings.

My clinical expertise includes:

    • Depression
    • Anxiety
    • Stress Management
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Panic Disorder
    • PTSD
    • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
    • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
    • Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    • Weight Management

    As a Certified Clinical Services Provider in ADHD (ADHD-CCSP), I offer advanced, evidence-based assessment and treatment strategies for ADHD across the lifespan. I also provide QbTest, an FDA-cleared, objective tool that measures attention, impulsivity, and activity—supporting accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment planning.

    I find my greatest fulfillment in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. I believe in fostering strong therapeutic rapport and interdisciplinary collaboration to support holistic well-being. My goal is to empower patients with the tools, knowledge, and strategies necessary to regain stability, resilience, and overall mental wellness.

    If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply searching for a way forward, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to listen, support, and help you regain a sense of clarity and control. Through compassionate psychiatric care—including thorough evaluations, supportive therapy, and thoughtful medication management—we’ll work together to create a path that feels right for you. One that brings stability, strengthens resilience, and helps you feel empowered in your journey toward wellness.

    Optimum Wellness Staff - Tyler D. Roy Thurman - Belleville, IL

    Tyler D. Roy Thurman

    I am Tyler D. Roy Thurman, M.Ed., LCPC (IL), LSOTP (IL), LPC (MO), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.

    Your Story Matters

    Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Mental Health Consultant with 24+ years of experience in the mental health profession. I know the importance and therapeutic value of providing a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment where unconditional regard, empathy, patience, support, accountability, and compassion are the cornerstones.

    As an extensively trained Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist, I employ a very client-centered, strength-based approach with all clients. My areas of specialty include but are not limited to Mood Disorders (Adults and Childhood), Adolescent Behavioral Issues, Grief/ Loss Issues, Attachment /Abandonment Issues, Relational Problems, Women’s Issues, Post- Post-traumatic stress Issues, Sexual Abuse Victimization Issues, and Self- esteem problems.

    I am licensed in Illinois and Missouri and offer in-person and virtual therapy. Remember, your healing begins with you!

    Optimum Wellness Staff - Rita Byrd - Belleville, IL

    Rita Byrd

    I am Rita Byrd. I am a licensed clinical social worker who earned her Master of Social Work degree from Washington University, Brown School, in St. Louis, Missouri. My journey to becoming a mental health practitioner was unconventional yet proved to be an excellent training ground – as an elementary school teacher, youth director, and business – to engage in issues I’m passionate about most: mental health and wellbeing. 

    Your Story Matters

    The bedrock of my practice is the knowledge and principles of psychology, guided by the Word of God. My objective is to serve hurting people by providing evidence-based treatment that leads to solutions, improved functioning, and, ultimately, the expected fullness of life.

    Population: Children/Teens (ages 8-18), Families, Adults, Elderly, and Couples

    Specialties:

    • Therapy – Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, PTSD, Family and Couples Counseling
    • Supervision – Teach and direct students enrolled in a social work or a counseling educational program
    • Life Coaching – Guidance to facilitate personal growth and realization of goals
    Optimum Wellness Staff - Diandra Hall - Belleville, IL

    Diandra Hall, MA, LPC

    Licensed Professional Counselor

    Hi, I’m Diandra Hall, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 11 years of experience supporting individuals and families in their mental health journeys. My passion lies in helping people overcome life’s challenges and discover their inner strength. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with both children and adults facing a wide range of mental health concerns, including developmental delays and trauma-related disorders. I have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), which I use to support both youth and adults who have experienced trauma.

    I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in Sociology focused on Social Work, from McKendree University. I later completed my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Lindenwood University. During my graduate training, I had the opportunity to intern at Touchette Regional Hospital’s Intensive Outpatient Program, where I worked with both adolescents and adults in need of intensive mental health support.

    My mission has always been—and will always be—to help others achieve emotional wellness and reach their personal goals. I believe deeply in giving back to my community, and I see providing mental health services as a meaningful and lasting way to make a difference. One of my favorite quotes by George Eliot says, “It is never too late to be what you might have been.” I strive to walk alongside my clients as they work toward healing and meaningful change.

    My areas of specialty include:

    • Trauma and PTSD
    • Adolescent behavioral issues
    • Grief and loss
    • Attachment and abandonment concerns
    • Mood disorders in children and adults
    • Sexual abuse victimization
    • Family dynamics
    • Self-esteem and identity development

    Whether you’re navigating a difficult season or seeking support to grow into the person you were meant to be, I’m here to help.

    Optimum Wellness Staff - Fatima Warren - Belleville, IL

    Fatima Warren

    Licensed Professional School Counselor | Behavioral Therapy Specialist

    Welcome! I’m Fatima Warren, a licensed professional school counselor with over 17 years of experience supporting children through a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions.

    I specialize in behavioral therapy and use proven, evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children and families identify and shift unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. My approach is grounded in the belief that positive change happens through clear goals, structured interventions, and consistent reinforcement strategies.

    At the heart of my work is a client-centered philosophy creating a safe, supportive space where children feel heard, empowered, and equipped to thrive on their mental health journey.

    April Lacey

    Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)

    Welcome! I’m April Lacey, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with 8 years of experience supporting individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, and self-esteem issues. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in diverse therapeutic settings such as psychiatric units, crisis lines, and community mental health agencies—primarily serving youth and families impacted by the juvenile justice system.

    My therapeutic approach is centered on building a strong, collaborative relationship with each client. I prioritize authenticity and strive to meet clients where they are, treating everyone with respect and compassion. I draw from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Trauma-Focused interventions, Mindfulness, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Strength-Based approaches, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.

    I would describe my communication style as warm, calming, and supportive. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel encouraged to express their thoughts and experiences openly. I want every client to feel empowered to be their authentic self, as I believe this is key to the therapeutic process.

    There are times in life when we encounter rough patches, lose our sense of direction, or struggle to cope with change. These moments can feel overwhelming and lead us to question our resilience. I became a therapist to help individuals reconnect with their inner strengths and rediscover the tools they already possess to navigate life’s challenges. I believe that while we are not defined by what happens to us, we have the power to heal, grow, and live more connected and authentic lives.

    My areas of specialty include:

    • Depression
    • Anxiety
    • Trauma & PTSD
    • Self-Esteem Concerns
    • Grief & Loss
    • Coping Skills 
    • Adjustment Issues
    • Mood Disorders
    • Women’s Issues
    • Men’s Issues
    • Cultural Stress
    • Job Stress

    Yvonne Licavoli, MS, LCPC, NCC

    Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

    Welcome, I am Yvonne Licavoli, MS, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.

    Life has a way of chipping away at us, sometimes making us forget who we truly are.
    We may find ourselves feeling lost, disconnected, or alone unsure of our identity, uncertain of where we belong, and yearning for someone to simply listen. Have you ever found yourself in that space? If so, you’re not alone.

    I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you can reconnect with yourself—whether you’re seeking clarity in your family life, your career, or your relationships. My passion lies in helping people rediscover their strength, embrace their authenticity, and live a more fulfilled and purposeful life.

    I use a person-centered, holistic approach to therapy, focusing on the whole person. We are the sum of all our experiences—mind, body, and spirit—and each part of us deserves attention and care. All of our parts matter.

    I work with both adults and children, providing age-appropriate support that meets each client where they are. With over ten years of experience in the mental health field, I have worked with individuals navigating addiction, trauma, and grief. I’ve supported couples working through infidelity and communication challenges and served in the community as a job coach. My goal is to create a healing space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to grow.

    Jedsia Brown, MSN, PMHNP-BC

    Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Jedsia Brown is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward wellness. She is committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences, goals, and challenges.

    She provides comprehensive care for children, teens, and adults through both psychotherapy and medication management. With a holistic approach, Jedsia works collaboratively with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that align with their unique needs and lifestyle.

    With specialized training in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of psychiatric conditions, Jedsia is passionate about helping patients restore balance, build resilience, and feel empowered in their mental health care.

    Bianca Jenkins - Youth Development Mentor & Group Facilitator

    Hello, I am Bianca Jenkins a dedicated Youth Development Mentor and Group Facilitator with more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in supporting children and adolescents as they navigate life’s challenges.

    As a mentor, I provide guidance with a focus on personal growth, emotional regulation, and building strong foundations for lifelong well-being. My mentorship approach emphasizes trust, consistency, and empowerment, ensuring that every young person feels seen, heard, and valued by quipping them with the skills and confidence they need to thrive, including:

    • Effective communication and conflict resolution
    • Emotional regulation and coping strategies
    • Building healthy relationships and self-esteem
    • Goal setting and personal development
    • Identifying and managing triggers
    • Confidence and self-worth development
    • …and much more!

    I believe that mentorship is about more than guidance. It’s about partnership. I strive to be the change I wish to see in the world by showing youth that they are never alone, and by helping them discover their strengths, purpose, and potential.

    JoVonda Winters

    M.Ed., M.Ed. Administration, M.S.W. (School Social Work), QMHP (MO)

    Hi, my name is JoVonda Winters. I am a Licensed Professional School Social Worker and Qualified Mental Health Professional, currently pursuing licensure as a Clinical Social Worker (CSW).

    For over nineteen years, I have dedicated my career to serving in educational settings, working with individuals ages 3 to 25. I also have more than ten years of experience in the broader field of mental health. My extensive background includes roles as a Teacher, Behavior Interventionist, Community Mental Health Social Worker, Mental Health Intake Counselor, Special Community Projects Coordinator (G.E.D.), and Qualified Mental Health Professional—all contributing to a deep and multifaceted skill set in supporting both youth and adults.

    While I work with clients of all ages, I specialize in supporting children in grades 5 through 12 and young adults. I utilize age-appropriate therapeutic modalities, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and integrate the Intentional Relationship Model (IRM)—a framework emphasizing the therapeutic use of self and the intentional choice of interpersonal approaches such as advocating, collaborating, empathizing, encouraging, and problem-solving.

    My communication style is warm, supportive, and rooted in empathy. My goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered to heal and grow. I believe in the power of collaboration—working alongside clients, families, and schools to advocate for the resources necessary to promote each child’s developmental, emotional, and behavioral well-being.

    Reach out to us today!

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