Kimberly

is the Founder and Director of Family Matters Counseling Center. A distinguished alumna of Geneva College, holding dual Master of Arts degrees in Professional Psychology (1998) and Counseling (2014).

While marriage and family counseling is her primary focus, she has also worked with a diverse range of issues and groups, including substance use disorders, mood disorders, life skills, parenting, women, adolescents, and the forensic population.

Kimberly is known for her compassion, discernment, and sense of humor. She believes God blessed her with two large features— big eyes (to help her see beyond the surface of what is presented), and a big smile (to encourage and remind people that hope still exists).

Outside of her professional pursuits, Kimberly enjoys quality time with family and friends, embracing adventure, exploring her creativity, and weightlifting.

Kimberly L. Thornton, MA, LPC

Jacen

is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University (1991), specializing in Substance Abuse Counseling. With a rich background in developing and delivering impactful programs for both adults and youth, Jacen is passionate about supporting individuals who feel marginalized by society.

His genuine warmth and engaging approach have consistently inspired hope and transformation in those facing their most challenging moments. In addition to his expertise in individual therapy, Jacen excels at group facilitation, finding fulfillment in guiding others toward meaningful “aha” moments—whether through direct instruction or shared peer experiences.

Beyond the social services field, Jacen has demonstrated strong leadership in the business sector, having served as Senior Manager for a prominent local health food distributor.

*Please note that Jacen does not accept health insurance as a form of payment. All services are offered on a private pay basis.

Jennifer Black, MS, LAPC

CLINICAL TEAM

Jennifer

Jennifer Black is a trauma-informed therapist, holding a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Carlow College. Jennifer has extensive experience in helping professions, with previous work in the social work field and community organizations throughout Pittsburgh.

Jennifer is dedicated to helping clients overcome life obstacles to achieve a life of wellness and purpose. She utilizes a humanistic approach that embraces the individuality of the client while encouraging them to identify and lean on their strengths to promote a successful treatment outcome. Jennifer enjoys counseling through a holistic lens to honor the three parts of human nature: body, mind, and spirit.

While Jennifer enjoys working with a diverse clientele, her areas of clinical focus are anxiety/stress management, mood problems, trauma, adolescent issues, autism spectrum disorder, spiritual concerns, and women’s issues. Jennifer also enjoys working with families, offering family counseling, as well as co-parenting counseling.

When Jennifer is not working, she pursues self-care by spending time with family and friends, reading a good book, catching a movie, or letting her creativity guide her to a fun and exciting place. Jennifer is the proud mother of two children, as well as a mentor for youth in her community. She also enjoys teaching and participating in dance, theater, and music.

*Please note Jennifer currently accepts UPMC Health Plan, Highmark BC/BS (Commercial Plans), as well as private pay.

Jacen Morris, BA

                                  Lori

Lori is a compassionate and experienced Clinical Mental Health Counselor dedicated to helping clients navigate the everyday challenges of life. She provides therapy for children, adolescents, young adult women, couples, and families—offering support that is both clinical and Christ-centered. Lori specializes in supporting those facing challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, spirituality, women’s issues, relationship issues, conflict, divorce, teens, young adult women, and marriage.

Every session with Lori is grounded in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. She believes that healing happens in connection, and her goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow. Her client-centered approach allows her to tailor each session to meet the unique needs of the individual or family with whom she works.

Lori’s treatment approach is rooted in a variety of evidence-based modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Christian Counseling, Family Systems Theory, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and the Gottman Method. She tailors her work to the unique needs of each client, drawing on these methods to promote healing, resilience, and personal growth.

Known for her warm and compassionate presence, Lori employs a client-centered approach that emphasizes active listening, empathy, and genuine understanding. She believes in incorporating clients into the therapeutic process, creating a safe space where they feel seen, heard, and empowered to reach their life goals and improve their overall quality of life.

Outside of the therapy room, Lori enjoys spending time with family and friends, singing, dancing, baking, shopping, and relaxing at the beach.

*Please note that Lori does not currently accept health insurance as a form of payment. All services are offered on a private pay basis.