Meet the Team

  • Hi, I’m Dr. Elma Hadzic

    Why did you start Lighthouse Counseling?
    I opened Lighthouse Counseling in 2018, inspired by a vision to create more than just a therapy practice—a space that feels warm, beautiful, and peaceful. I designed the office to engage all the senses, from natural light and lush greenery to textures, colors, and thoughtful details throughout, so that clients feel calm, restored, and cared for from the moment they walk in. I believe the environment where healing happens is just as important as the therapy itself. My goal has always been to offer the best of the best—from the physical space to the care I provide—so that everyone who comes through the door feels safe, valued, and empowered to grow.

    Who do you work with?
    I work with adults (18+) who are navigating life challenges or who simply don’t feel like themselves. This includes high-achieving professionals, as well as individuals seeking support to regain balance, clarity, and resilience. I specialize in trauma, relationships, anxiety disorders, burnout, and addiction, helping clients address both personal and professional stressors in a confidential, supportive space.

    How do you help your clients?
    I take a holistic, strength-based approach, considering all parts of a person—their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, experiences, and nervous system. Together, we examine how these pieces interact, identify strengths, build practical tools, and expand choices so you can respond to life with more clarity, confidence, and intention. I draw from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), the Gottman Method, and Positive Psychology, to name a few, tailoring each approach to your unique story, goals, and needs.

    What is your background?
    I came to the United States from Bosnia and Herzegovina at the age of 11, starting over in a new country and finding my way in an unfamiliar world. Education became a steady step forward for me and shaped my belief that pain is our compass, not our anchor—guiding growth rather than defining us. That perspective continues to inform how I show up in the therapy room, being present with others as they move through some of their hardest moments.

    Over the past 18+ years, I’ve provided therapy in a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment programs, as well as a graduate university counseling center. These experiences gave me a broad clinical foundation and the confidence to open my own practice.

    I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Grand View University, a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Drake University, a Ph.D. in Psychology from Capella University, and I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). Lighthouse Counseling reflects the values that guide my work—integrity, compassion, and deeply personalized care—and being present with others as they move toward healing and resilience is at the heart of what I do.

    What do you do outside of work?
    Outside of work, I gravitate toward things that calm me and help me recharge. I love beaches and mountains, and traveling to see the world through my kids’ eyes. Spending time with family and friends is deeply meaningful to me, but I also enjoy my alone time after being with others. I enjoy running—especially long distances, Pilates, and getting lost in a good book. I also really appreciate the comfort of being at home, where I can slow down and savor life’s simple moments. Did I mention that I really like my alone time?

    Why should someone work with you?

    I work with clients who are ready to explore themselves, heal, and grow. True change often comes with the loss of something familiar, which is why so many people want to change but end up staying the same. In our work together, I offer unconditional support, guidance, practical tools, and gentle challenges, helping you navigate that process. My goal is for you to move forward with clarity, confidence, and a sense of empowerment, while honoring your unique journey every step of the way.

  • What is your background?

    I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with specialized experience working with adults impacted by childhood trauma and grief. I am trained in evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches including ACT, CBT, CPT, EFT, and EMDR. My work focuses on understanding how early experiences shape emotional patterns, beliefs, and relationships in adulthood.

    Who do you work with?

    I work primarily with adults navigating the long-term effects of childhood trauma, emotional neglect, and loss. I also support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment-related concerns, anger, and interpersonal or relationship difficulties. Many of my clients are thoughtful, self-reflective individuals who struggle with shame, self-criticism, grief, or difficulty trusting themselves and others.

    How do you help your clients?

    I help clients understand how past experiences show up in present-day thoughts, emotions, relationships, and coping patterns. Therapy may include processing unresolved grief, increasing emotional awareness, perspective-taking, shifting unhelpful beliefs, and developing more compassionate ways of relating to yourself and others. My approach is collaborative, paced, and focused on meaningful, sustainable change.

    What do you do outside of work?

    Outside of work, I enjoy reading and spending time with my husband, cat, and dog. We stay active through winter and summer game leagues such as bowling, volleyball, and pool. I also enjoy tending to my two fish tanks and caring for my potted and aquatic plants, which helps me stay grounded and present.

    Why should someone work with you?

    You may want to work with me if you’re looking for a therapist who is warm, thoughtful, and deeply attuned to the impact of childhood trauma and grief. I offer a non-judgmental space where you can explore difficult experiences at your own pace and build greater insight, self-compassion, and agency.

  • Hello, I’m Lynn Burham, a licensed mental health counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and deepen their understanding of themselves. I have experience working with adults facing a range of concerns, including trauma, grief, anxiety, anger, depression and suicidal ideation.

    My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity and compassion. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and respected. Whether processing past experiences or seeking to live more intentionally, I support clients in moving toward a more hopeful and empowered future.

    As a trauma-informed therapist, I help individuals heal from childhood trauma, shift unhelpful thought and behavior patterns, and reconnect with their values, identity, and relationships. Together, we explore how thoughts, emotions, and past experiences shape their current lives, and work to build healthier, more intentional ways of relating to themselves and others.

    I draw from evidence-based approaches, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Theory. Our work may also involve examining avoidance patterns, attachment styles, communication dynamics, and emotional responses to foster insight and lasting change.

    Whether facing a specific challenge or seeking greater self-understanding, I offer a supportive space where meaningful growth can take place.

  • Hi, I’m Jennifer Neal! With over 20 years of experience working with children and teens, I am passionate about fostering self-confidence and emotional well-being. I hold a Master's in Education and a Master's in School Counseling, along with my mental health licensure. Throughout my career as a teacher and school counselor, I have developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by young people and families. I believe we are all a work-in-progress, and my role is to help clients overcome life stressors and setbacks. I support clients dealing with anxiety, wanting to improve confidence, overcoming trauma, and finding inner peace.

    I specialize in supporting children ages 5 and up, teens, and women, utilizing approaches such as hypnotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy strategies, visualization, and compassionate listening.  I use a variety of approaches that best fit the needs of each client. I believe in embracing my clients' goals and visions, guiding them on their journey to strengthen their mind, body, and soul. Outside of the office, you can find me out in nature, enjoying movement, loving on my plants, or connecting with friends and family. 

    I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where clients feel safe and empowered. Together, my clients and I explore challenges, celebrate strengths, and work towards a brighter, more confident future.