Meet our team
Licensed Practicing Counselors
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are trained mental health professionals who provide counseling and support for a variety of challenges. They hold a master’s degree, complete supervised clinical experience, and pass a state licensing exam.
Ruth Ridenhour CEO
DBA, LPC, CCDP-D, CCSTIP
Specialties and Modalities
Ruth Ridenhour holds a Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Human Resource Management from Northcentral University and a Master’s degree in Counseling from Webster University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Co-Occurring Disorders Professional–Diplomate, and has completed integrative sex and couples certification training. With more than 30 years of experience in service-oriented fields, Ruth has supported children, adolescents, and adults through their life journeys.
She began her career working with children and adolescents experiencing emotional disturbances in school settings, while also helping families better understand how to support their loved ones. Over time, her passion expanded to include working with adults, couples, and the LGBTQIA+ community, providing a safe and affirming space for self-expression and growth. Ruth believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and move forward toward a healthier future.
Ruth Ridenhour CEO
DBA, LPC, CCDP-D, CCSTIP
Specialties and Modalities
Ruth Ridenhour holds a Doctorate in Business Administration (Human Resource Management) from Northcentral University and a Master’s in Counseling from Webster University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Co-Occurring Disorders Professional–Diplomate, and has completed integrative sex and couples certification training.
With over 30 years of experience, Ruth has worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and the LGBTQIA+ community. She began in school-based settings, supporting youth with emotional challenges, and later expanded her work to include individuals and families at various life stages. Ruth provides a safe, affirming space focused on healing, growth, and hope for the future.
James (Jim) Gunn
MA, LPC
Specialties and Modalities
Jim holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from Bradley University and has completed training in Trauma-Informed Care. He lives with his wife in the countryside outside of Rolla, Missouri. Before beginning his career in mental health, Jim worked in the music industry, an experience that fostered a lasting appreciation for a wide range of music genres. He transitioned into the mental health field approximately 15 years ago and has since remained dedicated to supporting others in their personal growth and healing. In addition to his counseling work, he continues to work at Missouri S&T. In his spare time, he is committed to helping individuals find hope, direction, and their “best tomorrow.”
James (Jim) Gunn
MA, LPC
Specialties and Modalities
Jim holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from Bradley University and has completed training in Trauma-Informed Care. He lives with his wife in the countryside outside of Rolla, Missouri. Before beginning his career in mental health, Jim worked in the music industry, an experience that fostered a lasting appreciation for a wide range of music genres.
He transitioned into the mental health field approximately 15 years ago and has since remained dedicated to supporting others in their personal growth and healing. In addition to his counseling work, he continues to work at Missouri S&T. In his spare time, he is committed to helping individuals find hope, direction, and their “best tomorrow.”
Cindy Jones
LPC - Telehealth
Specialties and Modalities
Cindy holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Ethics, and Management from Mid-America Christian University (2009) and a Master of Science in Counseling from Mid-America Christian University (2014). She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both Oklahoma and Missouri and has over ten years of experience in the field. Outside of her professional work, Cindy enjoys playing the piano and guitar, going on walks with her German Shepherd, and spending time with her family.
Cindy Jones
LPC - Telehealth
Specialties and Modalities
Cindy holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Ethics, and Management (2009) and a Master of Science in Counseling (2014) from Mid-America Christian University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oklahoma and Missouri with over ten years of experience in the mental health field.
Outside of work, Cindy enjoys playing the piano and guitar, walking her German Shepherd, and spending time with her family.
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselors & Mental Health Counselors
PLPCs are provisionally licensed counselors who provide mental health services under the supervision of a Board-Approved Supervisor. MLC (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) indicates a counselor with a master’s degree who is fully qualified to provide counseling services to individuals, families, and groups.
Kristin Beels CCO
MA, MLC
Specialties and Modalities
Kristin holds a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Webster University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Human Services from Columbia College. She is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), equipping her with evidence-based approaches to support individuals facing a range of mental health and developmental challenges. In addition, Kristin is a Board Certified Autism Specialist, reflecting her expertise and commitment to working effectively with individuals on the autism spectrum. Kristin is a mother of 3 (20, 17, 16). She has been in the mental health field for 8 years, and 5 of those years practicing as a counselor. She likes to approach things from a holistic standpoint. She tries to meet clients where they are at, and help facilitate an understanding of the root of habits and behaviors. She believes the mind and body are connected and mental and physical health directly affect one another. “True power is the power to empower others”
Kristin Beels - CCO
MA, MLC
Specialties and Modalities
Kristin holds a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Webster University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Human Services from Columbia College. She is trained in TF-CBT and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and is a Board Certified Autism Specialist. Kristin has 8 years of experience in the mental health field, including 5 years as a counselor.
She takes a holistic approach to care, focusing on meeting clients where they are and helping them understand the root of their thoughts, habits, and behaviors. She believes in the connection between mental and physical health and the importance of empowering others through the therapeutic process.
Sarah Haines
PLPC
Specialties and Modalities
Sarah holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bradley University, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Central Methodist University (2018), and an Associate of Arts with an emphasis in Psychology from East Central College (2015). She is also a Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP) through the National Career Development Association. Sarah is a single mother to a wonderful teenage daughter and lives on her family’s cattle farm, where she enjoys spending time in nature through gardening, camping, hiking, and fishing. She has worked as a career specialist for the past several years and is excited to apply the knowledge and skills she has gained through her education and experience to support clients as a counselor. Sarah strives to meet individuals where they are and help guide them toward where they want to be.
Sarah Haines
PLPC - Telehealth
Specialties and Modalities
Sarah holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bradley University, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Central Methodist University (2018), and an Associate of Arts in Psychology from East Central College (2015). She is also a Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP) through the National Career Development Association.
Sarah has worked as a career specialist for several years and brings both education and experience into her counseling practice. She strives to meet clients where they are and support them in moving toward where they want to be.
Tabitha Hundt
PLPC
Specialties and Modalities
Tabitha holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Columbia College. As a therapist, she is committed to guiding clients in exploring the “why, what, and how” behind their experiences and life patterns. She collaborates with individuals to better understand their emotions, personal triggers, and coping skills, supporting emotional regulation and personal growth. She views therapy as a meaningful tool for self-exploration, helping clients deepen their understanding of how and why they think, feel, and behave the way they do. In her free time, she enjoys crafting, watching Grey’s Anatomy, and spending time outdoors. She is a dog lover and especially enjoys being outside in nature. Her favorite movie genre is animation, which reflects her appreciation for creativity, storytelling, and imagination.
Tabitha Hundt
PLPC
Specialties and Modalities
Tabitha holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Columbia College. She is dedicated to helping clients explore the “why, what, and how” behind their experiences and life patterns.
She works collaboratively with individuals to understand emotions, triggers, and coping skills, supporting emotional regulation and personal growth. She views therapy as a tool for self-exploration and increased self-awareness.
In her free time, she enjoys crafting, watching Grey’s Anatomy, spending time outdoors, and being with her dog.
Sarah Keeling
PLPC
Specialties and Modalities
Sarah completed her undergraduate degree at Drury University, where she double-majored and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminology, as well as an associate’s degree in behavioral science. She earned her graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University in 2024. She has worked in the mental health field and in client-based settings for over six years now. She enjoys working with people and creating a positive, safe environment for her clients. Sarah spends most of her free time with her service dog Peppa. She visits her home in Eminence, Missouri as often as she can, where they can both enjoy being outside. She also enjoys cooking and is forever searching for the perfect wine to pair with her favorite foods. Sarah is an advocate for self-expression, self-care, and finding the small things in life that bring peace and comfort; even if it is as simple as a tattoo, a bubble bath, or a quick game of tug-o-war with your dog.
Sarah Keeling
PLPC
Specialties and Modalities
Sarah completed her undergraduate studies at Drury University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminology along with an associate’s degree in Behavioral Science. She earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University in 2024.
She has over six years of experience in mental health and client-based settings and is passionate about creating a safe, supportive environment for clients. She values self-expression, self-care, and finding small, meaningful moments of peace in everyday life.
In her free time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her service dog Pep, visiting her home in Eminence, Missouri, cooking, and exploring wine pairings.
Interns and Nursing Staff
Our interns are pursuing master's degrees to become licensed counselors. They can see patients under the supervision of a licensed professional counselor. Our nursing staff provides clients with assistance in navigating their chronic illnesses, ensuring they have the support they need. Additionally, we offer services such as yoga classes and self-care techniques to promote overall well-being and empower our clients to take charge of their health.
Brendon LAST
Masters Level Intern
Specialties and Modalities
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Jessie Gunn
Masters Level Intern
Specialties and Modalities
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Administration Staff
Our dedicated administrative staff assists with scheduling appointments, managing billing, and ensuring a smooth experience for both patients and clinicians.
Bridget Hollingsworth - COO
Human Resources
Specialties
Bridget has her bachelors of Arts in Communication, Lindenwood University. Bridget has been in leadership positions for over 20 years. She is passionate about using her position to help grow and develop those around her, both personally and professionally. Bridget loves spending time with family friends, and her fur babies. She also enjoys nature, gardening, and cooking. Her motto this year is progress not perfection.
Bridget Hollingsworth - COO
Human Resources
Specialties
Bridget holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Lindenwood University and has over 20 years of experience in leadership roles. She is passionate about helping others grow and develop both personally and professionally.
Bridget enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her pets. In her free time, she loves nature, gardening, and cooking. Her motto is “progress not perfection.”
Sara Ferguson
Billing Assistant
Specialties
Sara has a bachelor of business administration and healthcare management informatics from the University of Phoenix. Sara has been in medical billing positions for over 20 years in multiple specialties. She enjoys using her knowledge of medical insurance to help others. She is passionate about working in a team environment and adapting to others. Sara loves spending time with family and friends. She enjoys cooking and doing puzzles.
Sara Ferguson
Billing Assistant
Specialties
Sara holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus in Healthcare Management Informatics from the University of Phoenix. She has over 20 years of experience in medical billing across multiple specialties.
She enjoys using her knowledge of medical insurance to support others and values teamwork and adaptability. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking, and doing puzzles.
Claireesa Murphy-Ridenhour
Office Manager
Specialties
Claireesa has a bachelor's degree in health science and is pursuing a K-12 special education master's. She has worked in behavioral health, wellness coordination, education, and office management. Currently, she is serving as the office manager while pursuing her Life Coach certification. Claireesa enjoys spending time with her husband, baby Atlas, and her pets. She likes to play games online, go on walks, and cook.
Claireesa Murphy-Ridenhour
Office Manager
Specialties
Claireesa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science and is currently pursuing a Master’s in K–12 Special Education. She has experience in behavioral health, wellness coordination, education, and office management, and currently serves as an office manager while completing her Life Coach certification.
In her free time, Claireesa enjoys spending time with her husband, baby Atlas, and her pets. She also enjoys online gaming, walking, and cooking.
Ready to start?
Healing Hearts Counseling
Compassionate counseling services to support your journey toward healing and growth
Quick Links
573-426-2277
h.heart.counseling@gmail.com
901 N Pine St Suite 101, Rolla, MO 65401
Office Hours
Monday-Friday: 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed