Hi, I’m DiShanna (Di), the owner and founder of A Better Journey Therapeutic and Educational Services. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with 13 years of experience in the counseling field. I hold a PhD(c) and will soon be completing my Doctorate in Addiction and Neuroscience. My passion lies in helping others overcome addiction, depression, anxiety, and unhealed trauma.

Before becoming an addictions counselor, I struggled with alcoholism for nine years, along with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. My addiction led to multiple encounters with the legal system, spending much of my adolescent and young adult years on probation for alcohol-related offenses. But by the grace of God, I overcame those challenges, broke free from addiction, and founded A Better Journey to help others do the same.

My mission is to support individuals on probation, helping them complete their court requirements while evaluating their relationship with alcohol and other substances. I believe probation is a second chance—an opportunity to learn from past mistakes and build a better future, free from jail or prison. I enjoy guiding clients toward self-discovery, helping them understand the root causes of their substance use, and turning setbacks into powerful comebacks.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband, four children, and extended family. I enjoy traveling, attending church, and seeking adventure—whether it's rollercoasters, rock climbing, zip-lining, or skydiving.

My favorite quote is, 'It's never too late to be who you should have been.” And my favorite scripture is, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” – Proverbs 16:3.

My team and I are honored to support you on A Better Journey!

Hi, I'm Maurice, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of A Better Journey Therapeutic Services. I lead strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and execution, ensuring we provide the highest level of care.

I have a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration. Currently, I’m in the final year of my Doctorate in Healthcare Administration, further strengthening my expertise in healthcare leadership and innovation.

I’m passionate about enhancing access to quality substance use treatment and committed to making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals on their recovery journey.

Hello, I'm Maylin (May)! I am the Administrative Program Supervisor here at A Better Journey. My goal is to support each of you by providing detailed information about our programs and guiding you through the enrollment process, ensuring you can begin your treatment as smoothly as possible.

I’m truly grateful to be part of this amazing team, and I want to make sure you feel comfortable choosing us and reaching out with any questions you may have.

“Do everything in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

Hi, I’m Sara! I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A&M International University. With 15 years of experience in the substance abuse field, I am deeply passionate about helping individuals overcome addiction. My core motivation is to share a message of empathy and hope: "One day at a time, together we can and do recover." There's nothing more fulfilling than witnessing the growth and transformation of others as they become the best versions of themselves. Being part of that journey is truly an honor.
"Resilience is a choice. It’s choosing to rise above your circumstances, no matter how difficult, and become the person you’re meant to be." – David Coggins

Hi, I’m Kimberli. I attended Tarrant County College District in Fort Worth, Texas, and have been a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) in Texas since 2016. My own recovery journey began in 2007, and it has fueled my passion for helping others overcome the challenges of addiction and build a fulfilling, sober life.

Outside of work, I love gardening and taking care of my little homestead. I believe that having hobbies and meaningful activities is a vital part of the recovery process, helping to create balance and purpose in life.

Hi, I’m LaWonta! I bring over 14 years of experience advocating for vulnerable populations through the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

I hold a Master of Social Work and a Master of Arts in Human Services with a specialization in Marriage and Family, and I’m a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor-I.

Supporting individuals and families affected by substance use is my passion. I believe in a trauma-informed, culturally responsive approach, emphasizing healing, accountability, and empowerment.

Throughout my career, I’ve provided education and support to biological, foster, and adoptive families, as well as individual therapy. I have a strong background in advocacy, crisis intervention, and case management.

Now, I’m excited to continue my mission in substance use counseling at Better Journey, where I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to support individuals on their journey to recovery. My goal is to ensure that clients receive a seamless experience from admission to completion!

Hi, I’m Joyce, the Client Support Coordinator. As a part of the Better Journey Team, I’m here to make sure every client feels supported from the very first call. I assist with scheduling, enrollment, and answering any questions about our programs to help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

I truly believe that compassion, patience, and clear communication can make all the difference in someone’s recovery journey. It’s an honor to be part of a team that’s committed to helping others grow, heal, and move forward.
Outside of work, I enjoy watching SVU and reading fan fiction online, going on a nature trip, especially to beaches, and travelling in general. I also love exploring coffee shops and different food cuisines. I look forward to being a helpful part of your journey!

Hi, I am Asia! I am a dedicated professional committed to guiding individuals on their journey to recovery and healing. With 25 years of personal experience in recovery, I understand the challenges of addiction firsthand and have found healing through a therapeutic environment. As a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, Recovery Coach, and Christian Counselor, I am passionate about empowering others to develop healthier coping skills and embrace lasting transformation.

My mission is to inspire hope and provide the tools necessary for individuals to achieve emotional and behavioral wellness. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), which will allow me to expand my services beyond chemical dependency and address a broader range of mental health needs.

I firmly believe in the power of resilience and growth, and my favorite quote reflects that belief: “In every loss, there is a gain! Let’s find the gain.”

I am Vincent, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC III) with a passion for helping individuals overcome substance use challenges. Since 2014, I have been dedicated to using evidence-based practices and therapeutic modalities to support clients on their recovery journey.

My experience spans a variety of settings, including mental and behavioral health, the Correctional/TDCJ Rehabilitation Program Division, detox, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and supportive outpatient programs. I am committed to providing compassionate, effective care to those seeking a path to lasting recovery.

Hi, I am Sandy. I am a dedicated and passionate addiction professional with a strong background in substance use counseling and clinical management. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Tarleton State University. My work is centered around building relationships with local resources to ensure comprehensive care for the clients I serve in my community.

Recovery is my passion, and I take a hands-on approach to life. I am actively involved in strengthening my community by volunteering with various organizations. One of my most rewarding experiences has been teaching a recovery class to incarcerated women in the Reentry Program at Tarrant County Jail.

I am also an active member of NAADAC (National Association for Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors) and TAAP (Texas Association of Addiction Professionals), where I proudly serve on the board for the Fort Worth Chapter of TAAP. Through these organizations, I advocate for addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery services on a local, state, and national level, frequently visiting legislators in Austin and Washington, D.C., to advance the field for addiction professionals.

My dedication to this work has been recognized through awards such as the Fort Worth TAAP Counselor of the Year, Professional of the Year, and the SAMHSA MFP Fellow of the Month. I am committed to making a lasting impact in the field of addiction treatment and recovery, ensuring individuals have the support and resources they need to heal and thrive.

I love spending my days with my two children, making memories together. You can often find me working in my garden, what I like to call 'dirt therapy.' I also enjoy being outdoors and attending live music events and festivals.

HI! I am Cedric, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and a Master Social Worker, with more than 10-years of experience in counseling, mental health, and social services.  A dedicated professional, passionate about creating positive change, I specialize in evidence-based practices and take a holistic approach to care by integrating motivational interviewing, the social work systems theory, case management and cognitive behavior therapy; to individuals and families, ensuring they have the tools and support needed, to overcome obstacles and thrive.  

 

I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree from The University of Houston-Main Campus, and a Master of Social Work degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.  

 

A proud 21-year United States Air Force military veteran, my motto has always been “Aim High and approach each day with a winning attitude,” because all great things start in your mind.  Therefore, in my spare time, I enjoy creating opportunities to engage with my family and community, as I have always had a genuine love for people, and a passion for serving others, which dates back to my military service and my mission work in the church.  

 

As a member of the “Better Journey Family,” I look forward to assisting you to reach your greatest potentials, and to live your best life!