John Wheeler PhD, LPC, MDiv, NCC, SEAL

Dr. John Wheeler is a Licensed Professional Counselor, educator, and former U.S. Navy SEAL with a deep passion for integrating faith, trauma recovery, and mental health. He holds a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Mercer University and is an Approved Clinical Supervisor in mental health counseling. He also holds a Master of Theology and Divinity degree from McAfee School of Theology, with a concentration in mental health counseling. As President and CEO of Pathfinders Counseling Services, Dr. Wheeler leads a thriving clinical practice committed to trauma-informed care with a Christ-centered foundation.

With almost two decades of practical and clinical experience, John specializes in trauma, Moral Injury, and the psychological and spiritual reintegration of veterans and first responders. He serves as Vice President and Board Member of the Special Operation Forces (SOF) Network, a national initiative connecting elite mental health professionals to the Special Operations community. He is also a board member of Cheerful Hearts Ministry, a faith-based organization supporting women in crisis.

Dr. Wheeler is a respected adjunct professor, having taught at Mercer University, Richmont Graduate University, and Liberty University. His academic focus includes first responder and veteran’s counseling, couples and group therapy, integrative theology, and crisis intervention. His published work explores the intersections of Moral Injury, locus of control, and the influence of toxic religion on mental health.

In both clinical and ministry settings, John is known for his authentic presence, masculine sensitivity, and a grounded, practical theology that resonates with clients, students, and fellow practitioners. He remains active in his local community, offering pro-bono counseling, mentorship, and servile leadership in church-based recovery programs.

A devoted husband and father, John lives on Lake Oconee, Georgia, where he enjoys reading, writing, boating, throwing any type of ball with his son, and the quiet strength of time spent outdoors. His greatest honor remains the title of “Dad,” and his deepest identity is anchored in his relationship with Jesus Christ

Tori Worley, LPC

Tori Worley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia. She earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a Minor in Health Sciences from the University of Colorado–Colorado Springs.

Tori brings experience working with children and adolescents across a variety of settings. Her passion for working with young clients is evident in her warm and engaging approach, which helps children feel safe, understood, and empowered. Prior to relocating to Georgia, she served as a paraprofessional in a high school setting, where she found fulfillment in supporting students academically and bringing a positive, encouraging presence to the classroom.

Tori is especially committed to supporting the mental and emotional development of children. She creates an age-appropriate, nurturing therapeutic space where younger clients can express themselves freely, explore their emotions, and build coping skills. Her work is grounded in the belief that early intervention and consistent emotional support can have a lasting impact on a child’s overall well-being and future success.

She incorporates a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, including Child-Centered Play Therapy, AutPlay Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Tori specializes in working with clients ages three and up who are dealing with concerns such as anxiety, anger management, self-awareness, self-esteem, confidence, life transitions, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and general mental wellness.

Tori is certified in AutPlay Therapy, which is a specialized therapy approach for children dealing with Autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental challenges. She is currently pursuing her credentials as a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), further enhancing her ability to serve children and their families with excellence.

Outside of her clinical work, Tori enjoys spending time with her dog, Koda, and her horses and goats. She also loves hiking and reading.

Tori is under the clinical supervision of Jill Osbourne, LPC, CPCS, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S) for her Registered Play Therapy Certification.

Katie Patton, RN, Office Manager

Katie is a Registered Nurse with a passion for supporting both clients and care teams. In her role as Clinical Assistant, she serves as a key point of connection helping clients feel informed, supported and comfortable from their very first interaction.

Her primary focus includes client intakes, scheduling, care coordination, and responding to questions with clarity and compassion. With experience balancing clinical knowledge and administrative organization, she aims to make the process behind the scenes feel seamless, so clients can focus on what matters most- their care and progress.

She is always happy to help, answer questions, and make sure you're pointed in the right direction.