Interns
Our interns are an integral part of our team. As college students enrolled in Master's mental health programs, they are learning and growing their craft and niche to be successful in the world of mental health. Seeing an intern is a great option for some clients because they see clients on a sliding scale fee and facilitate many meaningful groups. We are very lucky these individuals have chosen Shining Tomorrow Counseling to hone their skills and learn from our therapist. We love our interns and hope you will, too.

Jordan Hatch
Jordan is a student at Troy University. He currently works as a high school English teacher in Columbus and interns at Shining Tomorrow Counseling on the weekends. Jordan loves anime, Dungeons & Dragons, Star Wars, and Lord of the Rings. Keep reading to learn more about Jordan as a therapist:What is your major?Clinical Mental Health CounselingWhy did you choose to go into the mental health field?I think the mental health field chose me. I enjoyed teaching, but something always felt off, like my personality and quirks weren’t completely suited for it, but students often came to me with their problems. Other people have too. I want to do something that helps other people, so I chose this field as my second career. All in all, I think it matches my values. Counseling offers the challenge of solving puzzles while assisting people in becoming better versions of themselves.What is your style of therapy?It’s a bit too early to really say what my style is, but I know that I’m person-based and strengths based. Teaching taught me that you have to meet people where they are and build on their successes. Aside from that, I really believe that a lot of mental illness stems from people feeling stuck or relying on coping strategies that no longer work.What do you want your niche to be?If I had to choose, I would say that I am most excited about working with young adults, but I think that’s because I have lived that.

Blair Brooks
Blair Brooks is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling intern from Troy University’s graduate program. Blair has a passion for supporting individuals and couples by providing compassionate, client-centered care to assist her clients in overcoming life’s challenges and enhancing their overall well-being.Blair is a member of Chi Sigma Iota, the international honor society for counseling professionals and is committed to upholding the highest standards of professional excellence, ethical practice, and advocacy within the mental health field. Through academic and practical experience, Blair strives to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered.Besides counseling, Blair finds creative expression through drawing and painting, viewing art as a therapeutic outlet that promotes mindfulness and relaxation. An avid animal lover, Blair cherishes time spent with their beloved chocolate Labrador, Riley, whose playful and affectionate nature brings endless joy.Blair is looking forward to continuing to develop as a clinician, becoming familiar with our community, and making a positive impact on the lives of those seeking support on their mental health journey.

Josh Russaw
Joshua is an Army combat veteran with over 14 years of honorable service, bringing resilience, discipline, and a deep understanding of life’s challenges to his counseling practice. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Graduate Certificate in Addictions Counseling at Troy University, Joshua is dedicated to helping clients discover their strengths and achieve personal growth.
Why Counseling?
“As a veteran, I know the importance of support during life’s difficult transitions. I’ve been the person sitting across from a counselor during hard times, and now I want to be that source of hope and healing for others.”
Therapy Style
Joshua takes a person-centered approach, integrating evidence-based methods like CBT and DBT. He meets clients where they are, working collaboratively toward their goals.
Areas of Focus
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Trauma Counseling
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Substance Use Recovery
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General Mental Health Support
More About Joshua
When he’s not studying or counseling, Joshua enjoys time with his teenage daughter, working on DIY projects, and spending time outdoors. He shares his home with pet chickens and loves connecting with family and friends. His favorite TV show is The Walking Dead, and his favorite movie is Norbit.
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Joshua Thier
Joshua is a U.S. Army Special Operations combat veteran who deployed overseas four times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. After an honorable military career filled with numerous awards and qualifications, Joshua is now bringing the same dedication and resilience to the counseling field.
Currently completing his second clinical internship at Shining Tomorrow Counseling, Joshua will graduate this December from Troy University with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Graduate Certificate in Addictions Counseling. He’s also a proud member of Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic & Professional Honor Society International and SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society.
Joshua’s Why
“During my time in the military, I witnessed and experienced the impact trauma can have on a person’s life. My goal is to help people move forward with purpose and become the best version of themselves. Counseling is the way I turn this goal into action.”
Therapy Style
Joshua takes a person-centered, eclectic approach, adapting modalities and techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual or couple. He focuses on building strong therapeutic relationships while offering support—and a challenge—when needed.
Areas of Interest
If he had to choose a niche, Joshua would focus on working with combat veterans, as well as those navigating trauma, identity issues, and emotion regulation.
A Little More About Joshua
Joshua is a devoted dad, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu enthusiast, and proud owner of two dogs (a black lab and a Great Pyrenees) and a flock of chickens.

