Dr. Mark Jennings and Dr. Ken Pittman co-founded Agape Youth Behavioral Health in 2013.

MEET OUR TEAM

Psychiatrists

Pediatricians

Psychologists

NPs and PAs

Therapists

Staff
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Owner/Pediatric Psychiatrist

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Ken Pittman, MD is board certified in Pediatrics, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. He is a graduate of Clemson University and East Tennessee State’s Quillen College of Medicine. He completed Triple Board Residency and Fellowship at Indiana University. He has a special interest in Autism and has over 12 years of experience in various settings treating children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. In addition, Dr. Pittman treats children with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other forms of mood dysregulation.

Child Psychiatrist

Mark Jennings, MD completed medical school in Galveston, Texas and residency in Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry in Lexington, Kentucky. He has been in Chattanooga since 1999. He works with children of all ages and their families. He is a firm believer in utilizing behavioral and environmental approaches to address any problems in addition to medical interventions.

Pediatricians

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Dr. Hawes is a board certified pediatrician and fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, with specific emphasis in child and adolescent development and behavior. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in medical anthropology at the University of Notre Dame, and her doctorate of medicine from Baylor College of Medicine. She completed her post-graduate training in pediatrics through the University of Tennessee College of Medicine at Erlanger TC Thompson Children’s Hospital here in Chattanooga. Dr. Hawes has additional training through the American Academy of Pediatrics, section on developmental and behavioral pediatrics. Dr. Pittman is a consult and mentor to Dr. Hawes on patients with more complex psychiatric presentations. Her interests include the impact of trauma on development and behavior; autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other neurodevelopmental conditions; medically complex patients with behavioral concerns; mood disorders including depression and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder; anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder; as well as eating disorders and substance abuse in adolescents.

Psychologists and Psychological Assistants

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Michelle Fast, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has experience working in school and private practice settings and works with children as young as three years old, adolescents, and young adults, as well as parents who are struggling with problematic behaviors at home. Dr. Fast specializes in providing comprehensive psychological evaluations of developmental and psychoeducational disorders including but not limited to ADHD, autism, learning disorders, anxiety, OCD, and depression. She provides therapy including parent management training, PCIT, CBIT, and other modalities of treatment on a case-by-case basis. Dr. Fast works with schools to complete independent educational evaluations (IEEs) and school consultative services to support IEP and 504 developments.

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Megan Brown Ed.S., Certified Psychological Assistant

Megan comes to Agape following nine years as a Nationally Certified School Psychologist in the Chattanooga area, where she served Prek-12 public school students experiencing learning and behavioral challenges. She brings a wealth of knowledge regarding exceptional education assessment, law, and best practices. Megan earned licensure as a Certified Psychological Assistant in 2019, which allows her to now also practice in a clinical setting with supervision by a doctoral-level practitioner. She serves in an assessment role under Dr. Michelle Fast, helping to complete evaluations primarily for autism, learning disorders, executive functioning concerns like ADHD, and impactful mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Megan is a certified ADOS-2 administrator.

Megan is also a current graduate student at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, working toward licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor; she hopes to utilize her professional background to help support individuals with diverse needs as they navigate the joys and challenges of life. She is a registered yoga teacher, having attained her RYT-200 designation via Soma Yoga Institute, and earned her Level I certification in the Trauma-Conscious Yoga Method in December 2022. Personally, Megan is an avid yogi, traveler, bookworm, and absolute lover of all dogs, everywhere, all the time. Her favorite travel destination thus far is Lake Atitlan, Guatemala. She looks forward to meeting and working with your family!

Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants

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Laura Edrington is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from East Tennessee State University and received her Master’s degree in Nursing from Southern Adventist University. She obtained her Post Master’s certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She works with children, teenagers, and young adults in the outpatient setting.

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Roshmoti (Roshi) Wolfe is an ANCC Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who joined the Agape Team in the fall of 2019. She has specialized in mental health for over 5 years and received her advanced practice nursing degree from Southern Adventist University.  She has experience treating mental health conditions across the lifespan from childhood through adulthood. Roshi currently focuses on psychiatric assessment and medication management for children and teens with mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, ADHD, bipolar, and other mood disorders.

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Erika Trimm is a ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.  She graduated with her Master’s Degree from Southern Adventist University and is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society of Nursing.  Erika has over 10 years experience in the mental health field, working with both children and adults, in inpatient and outpatient settings.  Erika joined Agape in March of 2020 and provides psychiatric treatment to children, adolescents and young adults, as well as provided support and guidance to their families.  Erika is a Pennsylvania native who relocated to Chattanooga with her family in 2016 and believes no place has ever felt more like home.

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Janera Pentiah, PA-C received her master’s degree as a Physician Assistant from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. She is a Chattanooga native and joined Agape to help support children in her hometown.  In her free time, she enjoys circus arts and game night with friends.   Janera joined Agape in the spring of 2020.

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Christy Tittsworth has practiced in pediatrics for over 20 years. She is a nurse practitioner board certified in pediatrics, psychiatric mental health, and neurofeedback. She received her advanced practice nursing degree from University of Tennessee at Knoxville and most recently completed a doctoral of nursing practice at University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Christy enjoys discussing developmental and behavioral concerns with parents, children, adolescents, and young adults. Christy integrates medication management, mindfulness, and neurofeedback to help children, adolescents, and young adults maximize their potential during their formative years. Christy balances her work life by hiking, biking, and paddle boarding with her family.

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Melissa Hickman is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner that is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as a Neonatal NP.  She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and her master’s degree at Southern Adventist University.  Through psychiatric diagnosis and medication management she strives to help children and teens of all ages heal and ultimately become all they were created to be.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading, relishes time at the beach and spending time with her family and friends.

Therapists

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Timothy Todd, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in the field for more than 20 years. He sees people of all ages, but specializes in working with people who suffer with anxiety and mood disorders. Tim likes to use humor and a very straight forward approach to managing these very difficult issues.

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Savana Williams, LPC-MHSP has worked in the counseling field for over 8 years, helping children learn about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how they are all interconnected. Savana received both her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Masters of Mental Health Services at Lee University. Savana has experience working with many mental health issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and LGBTQIA2S+ issues. Savana works with all ages and stages of the life span. Savana’s practice incorporates various evidence-based techniques tailored to each individual and family including play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. She strives to create a sense of safety and trust within the therapeutic relationship as well as warmth and openness.

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Airebis Baron, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in the field for 10 years.  She sees primarily adolescents and young adults ranging from 12 years of age to 25 years of age.  She specializes in working with anxiety, depression, anger, mood dysregulation, and the stress of being a student athlete.  Airebis is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and has recently received training in EMDR.  Airebis is fluent in both English and Spanish.

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Stephan Belasco, LMSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker who has worked in the field for more than 19 years.  He is warmhearted, compassionate, and pure in his approach.  He is especially skilled at shattering through those barriers of resistance that can be characteristic of so many children who oppose therapy in the beginning.  He is very malleable and adaptable in his ability to offer developmentally appropriate, creative, productive, and fun therapeutic interventions for children and adolescents of all ages.  Stephan recognizes the importance of providing a safe, encouraging, and comfortable space for effective therapy.  He also strives to develop a strong connection with each client and believes in collaborating with his clients to help them reach their personal goals in therapy, as well as to create a sense of empowerment throughout the process.  Stephan is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and has experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.  He earned his MSW from UT-Chattanooga.  He also has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Southern Adventist University.

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Lindsay Wiggins, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is licensed to practice in both Tennessee and Georgia. Lindsay earned her master’s degree in art therapy from the University of Louisville and enjoys using creative expression to help people better understand and communicate their thoughts and emotions. She has a background in community mental health (both in homes and schools), which has motivated her to make therapy approachable and meaningful for each family she serves. Lindsay has experience working with children, adolescents, and families with needs ranging from ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, mood dysregulation and stress related to life transitions.

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Kim Hays leads Educational Social Skills groups on a part-time basis for Agape.  She moved previously existing groups to Agape in January 2020.  Kim has been an Educational Consultant, specializing in behavioral interventions, since 2010.  Prior to 2010, she taught in several school systems for 30+ years.  As an Educational Consultant, she has worked with teens, facilitated social skills groups,  and worked as an advocate for children and families.  In October 2019, she began working as a Social Emotional Learning Coach in Hamilton County Schools.

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Steven Beaty, LCSW, CCTP, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and is currently pursuing postgraduate certification as a Veterinary Social Worker through the University of Tennessee. Steven earned his Masters of Science in Social Work from the University of Tennessee and his undergraduate degrees in Psychology and English from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Steven has over 8 years of experience working with children and adolescents in acute inpatient, residential inpatient, and outpatient settings. Steven has experience working with a range of mental health disorders and conditions during his time within the hospital setting, and specializes in trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychosis. He utilizes an eclectic therapeutic style to best meet the needs of his clients and their family, blending humor, humility, and authenticity to create a comfortable therapeutic relationship. Steven is actively incorporating Animal-Assisted Therapy into his practice.

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Karissa Hyrchuk, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience in the field of mental health. She earned a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. Karissa has an extensive background in psychiatric residential care, working with adolescents and their families of origin or foster/adoptive families to provide support, education, and treatment for trauma, psychosis, mood disorders, and behavioral problems. Karissa draws from multiple evidence-based treatment modalities in order to meet the individual needs of every client and family. She utilizes empathy, transparency, and an ability to find humor in most situations to build a strong therapeutic relationship and to provide a non-judgmental space where it is safe to talk openly about difficult thoughts, feelings, and situations.

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Hannah Blake, LMSW, received her masters degree in Social Work from Western New Mexico University and has 3 years of experience working with children and adolescents. Hannah serves ages 3-13 using play and expressive arts therapies. She believes in the healing power of play therapy, which honors the child’s unique life experiences and helps give them the tools to cope, heal, and express themselves in their own native “language” – play. This approach has been effective for presenting concerns and life changes such as: anxiety, depression, anger, divorce, abuse, trauma, grief, and more.Hannah brings a tender warmth to sessions to meet clients where they are and guide them to where they would like to be. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, and families gain the tools to reach their full potential. Hannah aims to offer a safe space for people of all walks of life to be their most authentic self without judgment or shame.Outside of work, Hannah indulges in arts and crafts, good food, thrifting, video games, and spending time with her family.

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Sarah Doyle, LMSW, received her masters degree in Social Work at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She has experience working with individuals ages 7-25 in managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and trauma, as well as struggles associated with gender/sexual identity and self esteem. Sarah recognizes that, for many children and teens, the idea of therapy can be daunting or “weird”. Because of this, Sarah brings humor and warmth to the session to break down barriers so that clients can feel safe to explore their emotional needs and take steps toward reaching their goals. Her passion is to offer a judgment free space where clients of all backgrounds, beliefs, and values can be their most authentic selves and feel the freedom to explore their thoughts and feelings without shame. With a solution focused approach, Sarah encourages her clients to set personal goals to overcome challenges and work toward developing a more independent and confident sense of self.
In her free time, Sarah enjoys snuggling with her dog, Pippin, and cat, Junie. B. Jones, while repeatedly watching her favorite hyperfixation movies and discussing them online.

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Zack Allred, MS, graduated from Walden University with a Master’s In Clinical Mental Health Counseling this past August. Zack comes into therapy with a Psychoeducation therapeutic approach to increase the child’s or adolescents’ awareness. By increasing the awareness of why the client thinks and behaves a certain way, the client can make decisions that are better suited to match their goals. Zack believes that the future is unwritten and hopes to cultivate self-confidence, self-love, and self-empowerment in his clients. Zack has worked with anxiety, depression, and family dynamics.

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Sterlling Tindell – Therapist – I enjoy supporting children all the way to young adults trying to navigate what is next. For children, I work with emotional and behavioral problems and take a systemic approach to meet their developmental needs. I enjoy working with teenagers who suffer from anxiety, depression, life/social skills, as well as building their confidence. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and inclusive. My desire is to help families, children, and teenagers have a safe space to process life’s challenges.

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Kaitlyn Wallace, LPC-MHSP is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 7 years experience working in the mental health field. Kaitlyn received a  bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Middle Tennessee State University, and then went on to complete a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Heath Counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Kaitlyn began her career working in acute inpatient and residential inpatient settings with children, adolescents,  and families. She has experience working with a wide range of mental health diagnoses, behavioral difficulties, and varying levels of cognitive ability. Kaitlyn  specializes in trauma, mood disorders including depression and anxiety, and psychosis. Kaitlyn works collaboratively with clients using evidence-based  treatment modalities and interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Kaitlyn utilizes  empathy, genuineness, and a touch of humor to create a strong therapeutic rapport and a safe space for conversation.

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Trisha Tatum, LMSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker (PRN) with 5 years of experience working with children and families. She sees children and adolescents of any age but works primarily with adolescents ages 12-18. Trisha graduated with her Master of Social Work from the University of Tennessee. She has training in EMDR and TF-CBT therapies. She specializes in trauma, anxiety, and depression. Trisha’s passion is helping children learn and understand their struggles and find the right coping skills to help them succeed.

Staff

Office Manager – Courtney joined Agape Youth Behavioral Health in 2013, and has over 10 years of mental health experience.  She has her Associates Degree in Business Administration and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree.  Courtney has extensive knowledge in Credentialing, Practice Management and Medical Billing.  She started at Agape as a receptionist, was promoted to billing coordinator, and then promoted again when she became our Office Manager in 2015.  In her spare time, she enjoys being outdoors and traveling.

Billing Coordinator – Hope began as a receptionist for Agape and then moved into our billing department where she assisted with denied claims, patient billing, and other necessary tasks.  In 2021, she was promoted to Billing Coordinator where she leads our billing team. In her free time she enjoys going to Broadway shows, visiting Disney World, and spending time with friends and family.

New Patient Coordinator – Missy began as a receptionist at Agape Youth Behavioral Health when she joined our team in August 2020.  She moved to our New Patient Coordinator position several months later.  In her spare time, Missy enjoys Bible study, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.

Receptionist – Rebekah joined Agape in January 2022. She loves to find ways to help people smile. She is happy to answer your questions, plan for appointments, help resolve concerns, and make your visits positive. She loves interacting with the patients and staff. Rebekah is married with one cat and a dog. When not working, she loves to do photography and crafts.

Accountant – Estelle has been with Agape Youth Behavioral Health since its inception in 2013. She has a bachelor’s degree in Accounting with over 50 years of experience. She is currently retired, but continues to do the accounting she loves on a part-time basis. Estelle enjoys reading, ladies Bible class, playing dominoes, and hanging out with friends.

Billing Assistant – Kira joined Agape in January 2022 in our billing department.  Her focus is management of denied insurance claims and she also helps with patient billing.  Kira just finished her Army active duty contract and is now in the reserves.  She is currently working towards her Medical Assistant Certification.

Billing Assistant – Ashley began as a receptionist for Agape and then moved into our billing department where she assists with collections, patient billing, and other necessary tasks. In her free time she enjoys going bowling, hanging out with her cat Bagheera, and spending time with friends and family.

Receptionist – Annalise, joined Agape in July of 2023. My goal at Agape is to help as many as I can. In my down time I like to read, write, and chef it up in the kitchen.

Front Desk Coordinator – Hunter is our Front Desk Coordinator and joined Agape in April of 2022 as a receptionist. She has a passion for helping people, and feels like this is the perfect place to do so! She loves Taylor Swift, her cat Poppy, and being organized. In her free time, she enjoys playing video games, watching true crime documentaries, and drinking iced coffee.

Hixson Receptionist – Keily joined Agape at our Hixson location in April of 2023. As the receptionist in Hixson it is her goal to see patients leave with a smile! Whether that be asking patients about the band t-shirt they are wearing, giving out stickers and candy, or just asking the patients about their hobbies, she’s always there to try and make the patient laugh!

Ashley T. , LPN – Ashley joined Agape in June of 2022. She has been an LPN since 2010 with the majority of her time being in pediatrics. She is married to her high school sweetheart and has two boys. In her spare time she enjoys being on the river with her family, watching football, attending concerts, and watching anything true crime related.

Cassie, CCMA – Cassie joined Agape in January of 2023. She has nearly 18 years of experience in the healthcare field working with adults/children with special needs as well as pediatrics. She has a true passion for children and those with special needs. She is married and is a Mother to 3 boys. Most of her spare time is spent with her boys and their busy schedules with sports and other activities and her family loves to take trips but when she does get some quiet time, she enjoys watching a good true crime show.

Referral Assistant – Vicki joined Agape in October 2021 and helps ensure that new patient paperwork is completed along with assisting in other office tasks.

Makayla joined Agape in Jan of 2024 as a receptionist. She loves making people laugh and smile. In her free time she likes starting new Netflix shows, shopping, and taking trips to the beach.

Haley (PRN) – Haley joined Agape Youth Behavioral Health in July of 2021. In her spare time, she enjoys making crafts and spending time with her children.

Easton’s birthday is August 12th and is in training and still has many puppy traits. However, he is part rat terrier and chihuahua. He has lots of energy and likes to cuddle when he settles down. He also loves to play with his toys and his favorite is chasing the mini tennis balls.

Agape Youth Behavioral Health Values

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to serve the mental and behavioral health needs of children and adolescents in the greater Chattanooga area.  We strive to do this by comprehensive care that addresses the therapy, medication, and educational needs of the child or adolescent.

Our vision is a place where children and adolescents can find a home for all of their mental and behavioral health-related needs including medication management, various therapies, social skills groups, educational assistance, nutrition, and whatever other needs are identified.

Agape Youth Behavioral Health promises to continuously strive to improve and grow our services to meets the needs of children and adolescents to the greatest extent possible.