Our team

Better Living Counseling Center is a team of highly experienced and qualified professionals who are passionate about helping people improve their lives. Our team includes individuals who are skilled in helping clients deal with a variety of issues, including mental health, relationship problems, and trauma. We offer a variety of services, including individual and family counseling, couple's counseling and consultations services to ensure we are the best fit for you. We believe that everyone deserves a life worth living, and we are here to help you achieve that goal.

Anika Gooch, Owner, LCSW

859-233-8496 ext. 0

anika.gooch@betterlivingcounselingcenter.com 

Anika Gooch is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and trained in a wide variety of therapeutic modalities. She earned a Bachelors. in Psychology from Centre College, which is ranked 46th in the 2019 edition of the Best National Liberal Arts Colleges. She received her Master's in Science of Social Work from the University of Louisville, where she was a member of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.

Anika has received training in Trauma Systems Theory, Motivational Interviewing, Family Based Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Shame-Based Treatments, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She implements current evidence-based practices and literature in her practice with clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, trauma, PTSD, phobias, ODD, and personality disorders.

Anika believes one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. You deserve a life worth living!  Whether  a parent looking for a therapist to work with your child/teenager or an adult struggling to find their purpose in life, you have the ability to become the best version of yourself.  Anika would help you discover your strengths & develop a confidence in your abilities to better understand your emotions and make life more meaningful.  Anika strives to create a safe and supportive environment to support healing for you and your family.

Anika's therapeutic style is described as client-centered, strength-based, and relationship-focused. She focuses on the importance of meeting the client where they are and helping them foster healthy relationships to assist them in meeting their personal life goals.

Anika enjoys practicing yoga, photography, and hiking in her free time.


Lone Gooch, LMFT

859-233-8496 ext. 1

lone.gooch@betterlivingcounselingcenter.com 

Lone Gooch is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1989 helping individuals and couples improve the quality of their lives by addressing unresolved trauma and dysfunctional interactional patterns stemming from abuse, addiction and toxic family relationships.  She earned her Bachelors in Psychology from University of California Santa Cruz and her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Santa Clara University.  Lone was trained at the Mental Research Institute of Palo Alto, CA, one of the leading sources of ideas in the area of systemic studies, psychotherapy, and family therapy.  Lone has worked in a variety of mental health settings in California and Kentucky. In addition, Lone is a Board Approved MFT Supervisor.

Lone specializes in working with depression, anxiety and PTSD.  Lone helps her clients feel emotionally connected in their relationships, develop skillful communication strategies and develop internal resources to manage distressing emotional experiences.  Lone provides a safe and inclusive space for your healing to begin and take hold.  She invites you to experience working with a clinician with years of experience in supporting individuals and couples heal, improve emotional health and grow deeper relational connections. "There's a field somewhere beyond all doubt and wrongdoing. I'll meet you there." (Rumi)

In her free time, Lone enjoys kayaking, gardening, and spending time with her children.  


Jason Millikan, LPCA

859-233-8496 ext. 2

jason.millikan@betterlivingcounselingcenter.com

Jason is a  dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma, anxiety, and emotional well-being.  His approach is rooted in understanding the profound impact of past experiences and how they shape present behaviors and thought patterns.   He specializes in supporting clients through the healing process from traumatic experiences.  He creates a safe and empathetic environment where individuals can explore their feelings, gain insight, and develop coping strategies tailored to their unique journeys.   He helps clients identify and manage anxiety through evidence-based techniques. By understanding the underlying causes of anxiety, he works collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized strategies that empower them to regain control over their lives.  His primary therapeutic modality is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.  He believes in the power of CBT to transform negative thought patterns and behaviors.  Through structured sessions, you will work together to challenge cognitive distortions, set achievable goals, and cultivate healthier coping mechanisms. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, Jason invites you to reach out.  Together, you can navigate the path toward a more fulfilling life.  Jason's  motto is Live life like you are living life!


Jason's therapeutic style is compassionate and non-judgmental.  He prioritizes building a trusting relationship with clients, ensuring they feel heard and validated.   He integrates mindfulness practices and skills training to enhance resilience and foster a sense of agency.


He is committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their narratives and thrive despite their challenges. He aims to guide clients toward healing, growth, and a renewed sense of hope through tailored interventions and a supportive therapeutic alliance.


Brianna Mekelburg, LCSW

859-233-8496 ext. 3

brianna.mekelburg@betterlivingcounselingcenter.com

As a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am here to guide you on a transformative journey towards holistic healing.  Rooted in a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, I specialize in trauma-informed care.  With advanced training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and a strong focus on somatic work, I bring evidence-based practices to empower you on your path to recovery.  I believe in the power of addressing trauma with a compassionate approach. 

I aim to create a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your unique healing process.  Whether you're seeking support for personal growth, navigating life transitions, or overcoming the impact of trauma, I am committed to providing care that honors your journey.Let's embark on a collaborative healing experience, where your well-being is at the forefront of every session.  Your holistic transformation begins here.