The Murray Center is a woman-run, woman-owned business that prides itself on excellence. That excellence spans from the services we provide to the staff we hire.
Meet Our Team
All of our clinicians hold the highest license for their degree and level of training. Murray Center is the elite clinic for psychiatry services, neuropsychological testing, and treatment. We are highly referred to and respected throughout Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan. We take our reputation seriously and select our providers carefully.
Sarah Murray, Ph.D.
Dr. Sarah Murray is the founder and director of the Murray Center for Behavioral Wellness. A fully licensed clinical psychologist and trained neuropsychologist in the state of Michigan, she founded the Murray Center with one goal in mind: to create a place where exceptional, evidence-based mental health care feels personal, collaborative, and genuinely supportive.
As the Center's director, Dr. Murray oversees all clinical operations and guides the vision of the practice. She mentors and supervises our team of psychologists, therapists, and nurse practitioners, ensuring that every patient receives thoughtful, evidence-based, high-quality care. From treatment planning to clinical consultation, she works closely with our providers to maintain the standards of excellence that define the Murray Center and to ensure every patient has a positive, meaningful experience.
Dr. Murray earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago and has dedicated her career to helping children, adolescents, and adults better understand themselves and overcome the challenges that interfere with living the life they want. Her clinical training includes an APA-accredited internship at a residential treatment center for children and adolescents in the Chicago area and a postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology in Georgia. Prior to opening the Murray Center, Dr. Murray served on the medical staff at both Beaumont Children's Hospital in Michigan and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, where she provided assessment and treatment services to children and families.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Murray has published research on pediatric psychogenic seizures and has presented to hospitals, schools, and community organizations on topics including anxiety, evidence-based treatment, psychological assessment, ADHD, learning differences, and school accommodations.
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Kathryn Combs, Ph.D.
As the Murray Center's Clinical Director, Dr. Combs oversees our clinical team and helps ensure that every patient receives thoughtful, high-quality care. For many families, she is the first psychologist they meet. During your initial consultation, Dr. Combs works with you to understand your concerns, identify your goals, and recommend the services and provider that best fit your needs.
Dr. Combs earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Wayne State University and is a fully licensed psychologist in the state of Michigan. She brings more than 15 years of experience as a school psychologist and has worked across schools, hospitals, and residential treatment settings. Her background includes providing therapy for children, adolescents, adults, and families, as well as conducting comprehensive neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations.
Dr. Combs provides both therapy and psychological assessment services at the Murray Center, specializing in ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, and educational concerns. She is also our early childhood specialist, working closely with parents of young children to build positive behaviors, strengthen parent-child relationships, and create calmer, more enjoyable home environments. Her expertise also supports our clinical team through consultation on complex early childhood cases.
Whether she's helping a family understand a child's learning profile, guiding parents through challenging behaviors, or developing an individualized treatment plan, Dr. Combs is known for her warm, collaborative, and practical approach to care.
Dr. Combs accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Mary Brennan, Ph.D.
As the Murray Center's Director of Clinical Training, Dr. Brennan is dedicated to ensuring every patient receives exceptional, evidence-based care. She supervises our doctoral interns, mentors the next generation of psychologists, and helps maintain the high clinical standards that define our practice.
In addition to providing therapy and comprehensive psychological evaluations, Dr. Brennan serves as the Murray Center's Educational Liaison. Drawing on her extensive background as a school psychologist, she partners with families and schools by attending educational meetings, collaborating with school teams, and helping students receive the support they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.
Dr. Brennan earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Wayne State University, where she also serves as an adjunct faculty member. Throughout her career, she has worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families across a variety of settings, including schools, outpatient counseling, and inpatient mental health programs. This diverse experience allows her to provide thoughtful, individualized care tailored to each person's unique needs.
Dr. Brennan specializes in the treatment of anxiety and depression and has extensive experience conducting evaluations for ADHD and dyslexia. Whether she is helping a child better understand how they learn, supporting an adult through life's challenges, or collaborating with schools to create meaningful change, her approach is compassionate, practical, and grounded in the latest research.
Dr. Brennan provides both therapy and psychological assessment services at the Murray Center and accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Ben Delaney, PMHNP-BC
Ben is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and serves as the Director of Psychiatry at the Murray Center. He oversees our psychiatric department while providing expert medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Ben believes that successful psychiatric care begins with thoughtful clinical reasoning and selecting treatments that are tailored to each patient's symptoms, diagnosis, goals, and concerns.
Ben earned his Master's degree in Nursing Science from Wayne State University with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, and a wide range of other mental health conditions.
Ben is known for his exceptional knowledge of psychopharmacology and his ability to solve even the most challenging medication questions. Patients often seek him out after struggling with ineffective treatment elsewhere because of his reputation for identifying the right medication strategy when others have fallen short. His treatment recommendations are grounded in the latest psychiatric research, extensive clinical experience, and careful consideration of each patient's unique presentation.
Rather than simply prescribing medication, Ben approaches each case like a clinical puzzle. He thoughtfully weighs symptoms, diagnoses, side effects, medical history, and patient preferences to develop treatment plans that are both effective and individualized. His decisiveness, depth of knowledge, and confidence in clinical decision-making have earned him an incredibly loyal patient following and consistently outstanding patient outcomes.
Ben's goal is straightforward: use the best available science to help patients feel better, function better, and reclaim their lives.
Ben accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network.
Maggie Korn, Ph.D.
Dr. Korn helps ensure every patient receives the right care from the very beginning. She thoughtfully matches patients with the provider best suited to their needs and monitors their treatment progress at the Murray Center.
Dr. Korn is a fully licensed psychologist in the state of Michigan, a nationally certified school psychologist, and one of the Murray Center's neuropsychologists. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Rhode Island and brings extensive experience working with children, adolescents, college students, and families. During her graduate training, she served as a disability services counselor, helping college students access accommodations while supporting their academic and personal success. She completed her internship in a New York public school and later worked as a school psychologist in Rhode Island, conducting comprehensive neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations across a wide range of developmental and learning needs.
In addition to providing comprehensive evaluations, Dr. Korn specializes in parent coaching and executive functioning therapy. Her approach is warm, collaborative, and practical, giving parents and patients realistic strategies they can begin using immediately. She has a gift for taking overwhelming situations and breaking them into manageable, achievable steps, helping families leave sessions feeling empowered rather than discouraged.
Whether she is helping parents navigate challenging behaviors, teaching executive functioning skills, or conducting comprehensive evaluations, Dr. Korn combines clinical expertise with genuine compassion. Patients appreciate her calm demeanor, thoughtful guidance, and ability to translate complex psychological concepts into practical tools that create meaningful, lasting change.
Dr. Korn accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network.
Lauren Myers, Psy.D.
Dr. Myers is a fully licensed psychologist in the state of Michigan and serves as the Murray Center's Adult Intake Coordinator. She helps new adult patients feel comfortable from the very beginning, taking the time to understand their concerns, identify their goals, and ensure they are matched with the services and clinician that best fit their needs.
Dr. Myers earned her Psy.D. from the University of Indianapolis and completed a certificate in neuropsychology at Ball State University. She completed advanced neuropsychology training under the mentorship of Dr. Sarah Murray and now serves as one of the Murray Center's adult neuropsychologists. In addition to providing comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, she offers individual therapy for adults using an evidence-based, collaborative approach that creates meaningful, lasting change.
Her clinical experience spans medical centers, schools, and outpatient settings, where she has provided therapy and completed neuropsychological, diagnostic, and psychoeducational evaluations for children and adults.
Dr. Myers has earned an incredibly loyal following of patients because of the genuine relationships she builds. Her supportive, encouraging style helps people feel understood from the very first session. Patients often describe feeling like Dr. Myers is truly in their corner, advocating for them, celebrating their progress, and helping them navigate life's challenges without judgment. She has a remarkable ability to help people feel hopeful while giving them practical tools that continue to serve them long after therapy ends.​
Dr. Myers accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield
Katie Ellstrom, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Dr. Ellstrom is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) who believes that the best treatment happens through partnership, taking the time to truly listen, understand each patient's concerns, and work together to develop a plan that feels both effective and comfortable.
Dr. Ellstrom earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Michigan State University with a concentration in psychiatric care. Throughout her training and career, she has provided psychiatric treatment in a variety of clinical settings across Metro Detroit, giving her experience caring for patients with a wide range of mental health concerns.
Patients are immediately drawn to Dr. Ellstrom's warm, personable, and engaging approach. She has a remarkable ability to make people feel comfortable from the moment they meet her, transforming what can often feel like an intimidating psychiatric appointment into a relaxed, collaborative conversation. She listens carefully, answers questions thoughtfully, and ensures that every patient feels heard, respected, and actively involved in their treatment decisions.
Dr. Ellstrom's playful, genuine personality helps young patients feel safe and understood, allowing them to engage in appointments with confidence instead of fear. Parents appreciate the way she naturally connects with their children while also partnering closely with them to create treatment plans that fit the entire family.
Whether discussing medication options, answering concerns, or celebrating progress, Dr. Ellstrom approaches every visit with warmth, curiosity, and encouragement. Her goal is not simply to prescribe medication, but to build lasting relationships that help patients feel empowered, supported, and optimistic throughout their mental health journey.
Dr. Ellstrom accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network.
Emily Lemke, LMSW
Emily is a fully licensed clinical social worker in the state of Michigan who provides therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. She is known for her warm, welcoming personality and her ability to combine genuine compassion with practical, evidence-based treatment. Emily believes therapy should leave people feeling not only understood, but equipped with real skills they can use long after they leave the office.
Emily earned her Master of Social Work with a school specialization from Loyola University Chicago and her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wayne State University. Her clinical experience spans community mental health, private practice, and clinical supervision. She has worked as a bilingual therapist in both Denver and Chicago, providing individual, family, and group therapy to high-risk populations before returning to Michigan, where she continued her work in private practice and supervised limited licensed social workers.
Emily's treatment style is collaborative, engaging, and rooted in research. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and other evidence-based approaches to help patients make meaningful, lasting changes. She has an exceptional ability to take complex psychological concepts and translate them into practical, everyday strategies that patients can confidently apply in their daily lives.
Emily works effectively with individuals across the lifespan but has a particular passion for supporting adolescents as they navigate the unique challenges of growing up. Her background in school social work also allows her to collaborate seamlessly with schools and provide thoughtful guidance to parents who are navigating academic, behavioral, or emotional concerns.​
Emily accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Cassidy Slade, Psy.D.
Dr. Slade is a fully licensed psychologist in the state of Michigan who specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, and life's many transitions. She has a remarkable ability to connect with her clients, creating a therapeutic experience that feels natural, comfortable, and even enjoyable. Her warmth, curiosity, and genuine interest in people help clients feel at ease while doing meaningful work that leads to lasting change.
Dr. Slade earned her Psy.D. from the Michigan School of Psychology and has extensive experience providing care across multiple levels of psychiatric treatment. She completed her doctoral internship at Linden Oaks Behavioral Health in Naperville, Illinois, where she worked with adolescents and teens in inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs.
Using an interpersonal and evidence-based approach, Dr. Slade believes that meaningful change begins with a strong therapeutic relationship. She has an exceptional ability to help clients recognize the patterns that keep them stuck, better understand themselves, and develop healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and responding that continue to benefit them long after therapy has ended.
Patients often describe Dr. Slade as calm, approachable, and incredibly easy to talk to. She has a way of making difficult conversations feel lighter without minimizing their importance, allowing clients to feel both supported and challenged in all the right ways. Her steady presence, thoughtful insights, and authentic compassion make her a trusted guide for those navigating life's most difficult moments.​
Dr. Slade accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Jaylen Gavie, LLP
Jaylen is a Limited Licensed Psychologist in the state of Michigan who specializes in working with children and adolescents, particularly those experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and emotional regulation challenges. She is passionate about helping children develop the emotional skills, confidence, and resilience they need to become happy, capable, and thriving individuals.
Jaylen earned her Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Wayne State University and completed her practicum at Children's DMC Hospital. She brings experience in child advocacy, autism support, and research focused on the development of emotional skills in young children. Her treatment approach is warm, engaging, and evidence-based, creating a safe environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves while learning practical strategies they can use every day.
One of Jaylen's greatest strengths is her ability to build genuine relationships with children and their families. Her warmth, patience, and authenticity help even hesitant children feel comfortable, while her approachable style gives parents confidence that they have a trusted partner in their child's care. She has a special passion for teaching emotional awareness, self-regulation, and healthy coping skills, believing that these abilities lay the foundation for lifelong mental wellness. Jaylen is beloved by both children and parents for making therapy feel encouraging, empowering, and even enjoyable.
Within the Murray Center, Jaylen is a respected leader and an integral member of our clinical team. She is known not only for her clinical excellence but also for her kindness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to helping others. Colleagues value her thoughtful collaboration, and families consistently appreciate the genuine care she brings to every interaction.
Jaylen accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Alec Campbell, PMHNP-BC
Alec is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides both psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. His ability to integrate both treatments allows him to care for the whole person, creating treatment plans that are comprehensive, individualized, and deeply effective. Whether a patient needs therapy, medication, or both, Alec is equally skilled in each role.
Alec earned his Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a focus on Mental Health Counseling from Metropolitan State University of Denver and his Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University, where he specialized in psychiatric mental health care across the lifespan. Throughout his training and career, he has cared for patients at every stage of their mental health journey, developing a thoughtful, evidence-based approach that recognizes each person's unique story.
What truly sets Alec apart is the depth of his commitment to his patients. He approaches every session with genuine curiosity, compassion, and an unwavering investment in helping people succeed. No concern is ever too small, and no challenge feels too overwhelming. Patients quickly recognize that Alec is fully present, deeply invested, and committed to helping them create meaningful, lasting change.
His treatment style is collaborative, practical, and rooted in the belief that healing happens through strong relationships built on trust and mutual respect. Patients consistently appreciate his ability to listen carefully, understand the bigger picture, and offer thoughtful guidance that leads to real progress.
Alec accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network.
Robert Sheehan, LLP
Robert is a Limited Licensed Psychologist in the state of Michigan who works with adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional challenges. His calm, steady presence is one of his greatest strengths, helping clients feel seen, understood, and grounded from the moment they begin working with him. Robert creates a supportive environment where people can slow down, gain perspective, and build confidence in their ability to move forward.
Robert earned his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Wayne State University and his Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Michigan State University. Prior to joining the Murray Center, he worked for three years as a behavioral technician at Havenwyck Hospital, where he gained extensive experience supporting individuals with significant mental health needs.
Robert works especially well with adolescents and young adults, particularly those struggling with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. In addition to his clinical work, he is involved in suicide research at Wayne State University, allowing him to bring current, evidence-based knowledge into his practice. He primarily utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and existential therapy to help clients better understand themselves, develop psychological flexibility, and create lives that align with their values.
Patients appreciate Robert's thoughtful, compassionate approach and his ability to remain calm during life's most difficult moments. He helps clients feel emotionally regulated, hopeful, and empowered while working together toward meaningful, lasting change.
Robert accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Selena Kejbou, LLMSW
Selena is a clinical social worker who provides therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. She is known for her warm, genuine personality and her natural ability to help people feel comfortable from the very first session. It's not uncommon for people to leave a session with Selena feeling lighter, more hopeful, and better equipped to face the week ahead.
Selena earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan with a concentration in mental health, integrated care, and interpersonal practice. She also holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Oakland University. Her clinical training included work at Michigan Medicine, where she supported patients during the perinatal and bereavement periods while contributing to hospital-wide wellness initiatives.
Selena has experience treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, emotional regulation challenges, and life transitions. She utilizes evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, tailoring treatment to each person's unique needs and goals.
Children are especially drawn to Selena's playful, caring nature. She has a wonderful ability to meet kids where they are, helping them feel safe enough to learn, grow, and practice new emotional skills while making therapy feel engaging rather than intimidating. Parents appreciate her thoughtful communication, practical guidance, and the genuine care she shows for every family she works with.
Above all, Selena believes therapy should leave people feeling more hopeful than when they arrived. Her collaborative, strengths-based approach helps patients recognize their abilities, develop practical coping strategies, and build lives that feel more manageable, meaningful, and aligned with their values.
Selena accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Erin Horne, LMSW
Erin is a clinical social worker who provides therapy for teens and adults. When life feels overwhelming or emotions seem impossible to manage, Erin helps patients slow things down, identify what matters most, and move forward with a clear, practical plan.
Erin earned her Master's degree in Social Work and her bachelor's degree in Behavioral and Biological Sciences from the University of Michigan. Before becoming a therapist, she worked in research, public health, and policy analytics, experiences that continue to shape her thoughtful, analytical approach to patient care.
Erin brings extensive experience working with individuals in crisis. hese experiences have given her an exceptional ability to remain calm, focused, and effective during life's most difficult moments. Patients often find her steady presence reassuring, knowing they have someone who can help them navigate even the most overwhelming situations.
Her treatment is firmly grounded in evidence-based practice. Erin utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and other research-supported interventions to help patients build resilience, improve emotional regulation, and develop practical skills that create lasting change. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and stress-related concerns.
Erin believes therapy should provide more than insight. It should provide a roadmap. Her sessions are structured, collaborative, and goal-oriented, helping patients understand why they feel the way they do while equipping them with practical tools they can use in everyday life. Her calm confidence, clinical expertise, and unwavering support help patients feel capable of facing challenges they once thought were impossible.
Erin accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
LaKenya Johnson, Ph.D., LLP
Dr. Johnson is a Limited Licensed Psychologist (LLP) who has an extraordinary ability to help people feel at ease from the very first session. Her calm, reassuring presence allows even the most anxious patients to relax, open up, and begin doing meaningful work. Many patients leave their first appointment wishing they had started therapy years earlier.
Dr. Johnson earned her Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy and completed her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at Wayne State University, where she also serves as an Adjunct Faculty member. She has worked with Michigan Medicine's perinatal mental health program, providing both individual and group therapy to mothers during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Dr. Johnson has a gift for taking complex emotional struggles and translating them into simple, everyday skills that people can immediately begin using in their daily lives. Her sessions are insightful without feeling overwhelming, helping patients make meaningful changes that last long after therapy has ended.
In addition to individual therapy, Dr. Johnson provides couples counseling, where she helps partners better understand one another, recognize the patterns that keep them stuck, and develop healthier ways of communicating and connecting. Her thoughtful, balanced approach allows each person to feel heard while guiding couples toward lasting, meaningful change.
Dr. Johnson's research has explored the experiences of Black women during the perinatal period, the impact of support groups in reducing mental health stigma, and the importance of culturally responsive care. She integrates this knowledge into an evidence-based, collaborative approach that is both compassionate and highly effective.
Dr. Johnson accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Elle Flynn, LPC
Elle is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the states of Michigan and Illinois and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She provides therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, helping patients navigate anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, and the everyday challenges that can make life feel overwhelming. Whether she's working with a child learning emotional regulation or an adult facing a major life decision, Elle has a remarkable ability to meet people exactly where they are.
Elle earned her Master's degree in Counseling from DePaul University and brings extensive experience from both school-based counseling and outpatient therapy.
Patients quickly notice how easy Elle is to talk to. She has a genuine, down-to-earth style that helps people feel heard, understood, and accepted without judgment. Kids naturally connect with her playful and engaging personality, while teens and adults appreciate her ability to listen deeply before offering thoughtful insights that often leave them saying, "That's exactly what I needed to hear."
Elle's therapy is practical, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based care. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based approaches to help patients better understand themselves while building skills they can immediately apply in everyday life. Her feedback is thoughtful, actionable, and tailored to each person's unique goals, allowing patients to leave sessions feeling not only understood but equipped to make meaningful change.
Many patients describe feeling lighter, more hopeful, and genuinely thankful they decided to begin therapy after meeting with Elle.
Elle accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network.
Khaled Awwad, PMHNP-BC
Khaled is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults. He is known for his easygoing personality, genuine empathy, and ability to make patients feel comfortable from the very first appointment.
Khaled earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health. Before transitioning into psychiatry, he spent years working in hospital-based care, an experience that strengthened his ability to see the whole person, remain calm under pressure, and thoughtfully address both medical and emotional concerns.
He specializes in the evaluation and treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and other mental health conditions. Khaled combines evidence-based medication management with a collaborative approach, taking the time to understand each patient's experiences, answer questions, and ensure they feel informed and involved in every treatment decision.
Khaled's warmth helps appointments feel comfortable, while his thoughtful recommendations and sound clinical judgment help patients make meaningful, lasting progress. He has a natural ability to balance compassion with expertise, creating an experience where patients feel both supported and confident that they are receiving excellent care.
Khaled is especially passionate about improving access to high-quality mental health care for underserved communities and believes everyone deserves treatment that is respectful, individualized, and grounded in the best available evidence.
Khaled sees patients both in person and via telehealth and accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network.
Melissa Ng, LLPC
Melissa is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor and fully licensed school counselor who works with adolescents, young adults, and families. She is known for her kind, encouraging nature and her genuine desire to help every patient become the healthiest, happiest version of themselves. Melissa creates a welcoming environment where patients feel accepted, supported, and empowered to grow at their own pace.
Melissa earned her master's degrees in School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Oakland University and holds bachelor's degrees in both Psychology and Mathematics from the University of Michigan. She has spent the past nine years serving as a secondary school counselor in Oakland County, where she has helped hundreds of adolescents navigate both the emotional and academic challenges that come with growing up.
Melissa has extensive experience supporting patients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, grief and loss, trauma, anger management, peer relationships, identity development, academic stress, school transitions, and family changes such as divorce.
Melissa's approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and rooted in evidence-based care. She integrates Person-Centered Therapy with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help patients better understand themselves, develop resilience, and make choices that align with their values and long-term goals. She believes lasting change happens through a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, consistency, and genuine compassion.
Patients and families appreciate Melissa's gentle encouragement, thoughtful guidance, and unwavering belief in their ability to grow. Her warmth, optimism, and dedication make therapy feel like a place where healing, confidence, and meaningful change are truly possible.
Amber Abboud, B.A.
Amber is the creative force behind much of the Murray Center's visual identity. As our Content Designer, she transforms evidence-based psychology into engaging, approachable, and genuinely enjoyable content. From designing our social media graphics to illustrating our original cartoons, Amber has a unique talent for making mental health education feel accessible, memorable, and even a little funny.
She is also the creator and illustrator behind @hey.thatsweird, the Murray Center's animated series that explores the fascinating psychology behind everyday human behavior. Through clever illustrations and relatable humor, Amber helps bring psychological concepts to life in ways that connect with thousands of people.
Amber earned her degree in English Education from Michigan State University and spent six years as a classroom teacher, where she developed a passion for youth mental health, creativity, and helping students reach their full potential.
In addition to her creative work, Amber is an exceptional tutor who builds meaningful relationships with her students. She has helped countless middle school and high school students improve their ACT scores, strengthen their writing skills, and craft compelling college application essays. Her ability to make learning engaging, encouraging, and individualized gives students the confidence they need to succeed both academically and personally.
Whether she's creating content, designing educational materials, illustrating cartoons, or working one-on-one with students, Amber brings creativity, warmth, and enthusiasm to everything she does. She believes learning and mental wellness should be approachable, empowering, and even fun, and her work reflects that philosophy every day.
Amy serves as the Murray Center's Intake Coordinator and Director of Patient Experience. For many families, she is the very first person they meet. From your first phone call, Amy takes the time to listen carefully, understand your concerns, and help you navigate what can often feel like an overwhelming process. Her goal is simple: to make sure you feel heard, supported, and confident that you've come to the right place.
Amy earned her degree in Elementary Education from Michigan State University and spent nine years as a classroom teacher before starting her family. Her background in education, combined with years of experience in communication, event planning, and community engagement, gives her a unique ability to connect with families, understand children's needs, and guide people through unfamiliar situations with patience and clarity.
Amy will help you understand what to expect during your first appointment, recommend the providers and services that best fit your needs, and answer every question along the way. She takes the time to learn about you, your child, and your family's story so that our clinical team can begin your care with a clear understanding of what matters most to you.
Amy's involvement doesn't end after your first appointment. She follows up with new patients during their first several visits to ensure we've earned your trust, matched you with the right provider, and are delivering the level of care you deserve. If something isn't quite right, she wants to know. If you've had a wonderful experience, she wants to hear that too. Her commitment is to making sure every patient feels respected, valued, and genuinely cared for.
Amy embodies what the Murray Center is all about: treating people with kindness, respect, and compassion from the very first interaction. By the time you meet your provider, you'll already know that you're in good hands because Amy has made sure of it.
Amy Orlando, B.A.
Kim Whelan, A.GS
Kim serves as the Murray Center's Director of Finance, overseeing billing, insurance, and patient accounts. She believes patients deserve someone who will advocate for them when navigating the often confusing world of health insurance.
Kim holds an associate's degree in General Studies and brings decades of healthcare administration experience to the Murray Center. As a longtime employee of Beaumont Hospital, she developed extensive expertise in medical billing, insurance, scheduling, and patient relations. Her deep understanding of insurance benefits and billing procedures allows her to help patients navigate even the most complex questions with confidence.
Kim is known for being direct, knowledgeable, and incredibly resourceful. She believes patients should always know what to expect, especially when it comes to finances and insurance. When insurance issues arise, Kim is a tireless advocate, working behind the scenes to resolve problems, clarify benefits, and help patients receive the coverage they deserve. Many of our patients have expressed deep appreciation for her persistence and willingness to go to bat for them.
Kim also coordinates all psychological and neuropsychological testing appointments at the Murray Center. She understands that the evaluation process can feel overwhelming, particularly for families seeking answers for their child. From the moment testing is scheduled, Kim walks patients through every step of the process, explaining what to expect, answering logistical questions, and ensuring families feel informed and prepared. Her organization and attention to detail make what can feel like an intimidating experience predictable, straightforward, and easy to navigate. At the Murray Center, Kim is the person you want in your corner when you have a billing or insurance question. Her unwavering commitment to advocating for patients make her an invaluable part of our team.
Devon Gardner, B.A.
Devon works in our customer service department and welcomes all patients to the Murray Center. Devon received her bachelor's degree in Human Resources from Grand Valley State. She has worked as executive assistant at Quicken for the chief learning officer and chief diversity officer. Devon has experience in administration, recruiting, event planning, and marketing. In her spare time, Devon enjoys traveling, going to concerts, and spending time with her dog, Sunny and her cat, Charlie. At the Murray Center, Devon will work with you to make sure your visits with us are easy and comfortable! She is an advocate for our patients, making sure you are in the know and that all of your questions and concerns are addressed. As a patient advocate, Devon strives to meet your needs and make sure the process is as welcoming, transparent, and informative as possible! While Devon is scheduling your visits with us she will also help you navigate our entire facility so that you feel a part of the Murray Center family. When you're in with us, stop by and say hi to Devon, grab a snack, or get comfortable in our inviting waiting room. We can't wait to see you!
Allison O'Connor, A.AS
As our Patient Liaison, Allison is dedicated to ensuring every patient and family feels welcomed, supported, and cared for from the moment they walk through our doors or call our office. Whether she's greeting you at the front desk, answering your questions over the phone, or helping coordinate your visit, Allison's goal is to make every interaction feel easy, personal, and reassuring.
Allison's path to the Murray Center is a unique blend of healthcare, customer service, and crisis management. She earned her associate's degree in Applied Science, competed as a collegiate athlete at Central Michigan University, and later became a certified massage therapist, further expanding her understanding of health and wellness. She also spent nearly a decade as a 911 dispatcher, where she developed exceptional communication skills, learned to remain calm under pressure, and discovered the importance of helping people feel supported during life's most stressful moments.​
At the Murray Center, Allison serves as a dependable resource for patients and families, helping them navigate the day-to-day details of their care with compassion, patience, and professionalism. She believes that exceptional patient care begins long before someone meets with a provider, and she takes pride in creating an environment where every person feels welcomed, respected, and valued.