Nicole Siegfried, Ph.D. - Clinical Director

Nicole received a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from St. Mary's University in Texas in 1993, going on to earn a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Oklahoma State University in 1998. At the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Department of Medicine, Nicole completed a pre-doctoral residency and a postdoctoral fellowship in women's health disorders, with a focus on eating disorders. Nicole has published research articles and book chapters, performed workshops and given conference presentations in the fields of eating disorders and health psychology.

Nicole has exclusively treated eating disorders in her seven-year private practice, Siegfried, Porter & Associates. She strongly believes in treating the entire person and in her practice has worked closely as a team with psychiatrists, physicians, and dietitians to meet her clients' needs. Nicole is also a tenured Associate Professor of Psychology at Samford University, where she has received several teaching awards and is a favorite among students. She is the co-coordinator for the Alabama Network for Eating Disorder Awareness, which promotes awareness and provides education and treatment resources for eating disorders across the state.

As Magnolia Creek's Clinical Director, Nicole believes in collaborating with our residents and walking beside them in their journey to recovery. She understands that women with eating disorders are capable individuals who can fully recover when provided with the right support, guidance, and a sense of hope.

A. Kenneth Olson, M.D., Ph.D. - Medical Director

Ken received his M.D. from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in 1973 and his Ph.D. in Nutrition Sciences from University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) in 1994. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Northwestern University. Ken completed a three-year residency at the Mayo Clinic and a post-doctoral fellowship at UAB. For 17 years, Ken has been at Trinity Montclair Hospital in a private practice that specializes in the nutritional and acute medical treatment of eating disorders. He formerly held an appointment as an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor in Clinical Nutrition at the UAB School of Medicine and has published a number of book chapters, publications, and research presentations in the areas of nutrition and medicine.

As Magnolia Creek's Medical Director, Ken is dedicated to the health and well-being of our residents. His work with eating disorders has inspired him to research and develop nutritional supplements to aid in the recovery process.

Susan Overton, R.N. - Charge Nurse

Susie earned her degree in nursing from Samford University in 1984. Before coming to Magnolia Creek, she held positions as Primary Care Nurse and Case Manager for several medical centers, including New Beacon Hospice, Reciprocal of America, and the Shelby Baptist Medical Center's Occupational Medicine Clinic. Her experience also includes working as a Nurse Counselor for Bradford Adolescent Facility, working with adolescents receiving treatment for substance abuse.

In addition to her nursing and management duties, Susie enjoys educating our residents about taking care of their health and helps lead the Health, Body, and Wellness Group each week. She is known for her calming presence and readiness to lend a sympathetic ear and shoulder to lean upon.

Dominic Maxwell, M.D. - Psychiatrist

Dominic received his M.D. from Michigan State University in 1995, followed by extensive post-graduate training in several affiliates of Harvard Medical School: Massachusetts General Hospital, where he focused on Adult Psychiatry and the Children's Hospital in Boston, where he focused on Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and started specializing in eating disorders. He spent several years practicing Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in the northeast before coming to Birmingham, where he has worked in private practice and with Grayson and Associates, P.C. concentrating on treating patients with eating disorders.

Dominic brings a spirit of cooperation to his role as Magnolia Creek's psychiatrist. He is a strong advocate of working together as a team to treat our residents and is taking an active role in training our staff in the psychiatric aspects of eating disorders.

Anna Stanley, M.A., L.P.C. - Primary Therapist

Anna earned a Master's degree in Counseling from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2002 and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Anna most recently served as the Director of Counseling Services at the I Found Hope Counseling Center at Judson College, providing group and individual counseling for students and faculty. She has also worked extensively with young children in her previous work at Camp Greystone and the Early Arts Center.

As a primary therapist at Magnolia Creek, Anna leads Experiential Group and Body Integration Group. Using creative expression and other experiential modalities, she promotes insight and awareness through the use of symbols and metaphor.

Jill McCool, M.A., L.P.C. - Primary Therapist

Jill graduated from Auburn University in 1974 with a B.S. in Nutrition and Foods, later earning a Master's degree in Biblical Counseling from Birmingham Theological Seminary, as well as an M.A.Ed. in counseling from Univeristy of Alabama at Birmingham. She became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 1991. Jill spent several years as an Adventure Based Therapist at Bradford Adolescent, an in-patient facility for treating alcohol and drug-related addictions in teens. She then went into private practice, followed by six years at Beeson Divinity School on the campus of Samford University. Jill has worked as a counselor for Henderson and Walton Women's Center, the Day Treatment Program for New Life Clinic (now Wellspring Christian Clinic), and Trinity Counseling. She has also led numerous workshops and seminars.

Jill leads the Soulful Spirit Group. Jill has been a mentor and teacher to many women throughout her career, a role she is dedicated to serving as a primary therapist at Magnolia Creek.

Amanda Coleman, M.Ed., L.P.C., N.C.C. - Primary Therapist

Amanda received a Master of Education in Community Agency Counseling from Auburn University in 2004. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, as well as a National Certified Counselor. Amanda comes to us from SpectraCare in Dothan, where she provided individual counseling and facilitated up to 20 groups each month. Previously, she worked as a counselor for Laurel Hill Inn, a residential treatment facility for eating disorders in the northeast. She has also worked with young girls at Twin Cedars Youth Services and children with autism at The Center for Behavioral Training.

Amanda has experience in the application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and leads our DBT Group and Mindfulness Relaxation Group. As a primary therapist at Magnolia Creek, she provides individual therapy, group facilitation and treatment planning for our residents. She looks forward to working closely with our multidisciplinary team in order to provide personalized and comprehensive treatment.

Suzanne Eleazer, M.A., R.D., L.D. - Dietitian

Suzanne is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian and is also certified in food management and food safety (ServSafe). She received her Bachelor's degree in Nutrition from University of Mississippi, followed by a Master's degree in Exercise Physiology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Suzanne completed her dietetics internship at UAB and completed a fellowship in the treatment of adolescents with eating disorders through the Children's Hospital in Birmingham. She also received several awards and recognitions throughout her training.

Suzanne believes that healthful eating is within everyone's reach yet recognizes the nutritional and dietary challenges that come with eating disorders. As Magnolia Creek's dietitian, she works closely with each resident to help her develop a healthier, more intuitive and more sustainable relationship with food.

Ellen Fisher, M.S., R.D., L.D. - Nutrition and Wellness Specialist

Ellen is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian, with a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Ellen completed her dietetics internship at UAB and was a nutrition fellow with the "Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH)" program. She has also worked for "Healthier Weigh", a program for overweight adolescents, providing nutritional assessment, education, and counseling.

As the Nutrition and Wellness Specialist, Ellen is responsible for planning and preparing meals for our residents, as well as leading physical training sessions several times a week. For both roles, she focuses on designing a well-balanced plan that can be individualized for each resident's preferences, medical conditions, and physical needs.

Chebon Porter, Ph.D. - Therapist

After receiving a Doctoral degree in 1999 from Oklahoma State University, Chebon completed a post-doctoral fellowship in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Medicine. He has since been working at the Southeastern Blind Rehabilitation Center as their attending clinical psychologist and as the Director of Clinical Training for the VA, as part of the APA -accredited UAB Clinical Psychology Internship Consortium. In addition, he maintains a private practice at Siegfried, Porter & Associates, where he specializes in trauma, and also holds an academic appointment as Assistant Professor at the UAB School of Medicine.

Chebon leads both the weekly Empowerment Group for residents and the After Care therapy group for alumni, helping past and current residents develop a sense of purpose and affirm their commitment to recovery. He coaches soccer in his spare time and can often be found by Magnolia Creek's lake, indulging in his favorite pastime of fishing.

Lindsay Klyce, M.A., A.L.C. - Adjunct Therapist and After Care Coordinator

Lindsay is currently finishing her thesis work for a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology, specializing in eating disorders, from Mississippi State University. She also holds a Master's degree in Community Counseling from Louisiana State University and is an Associate Licensed Counselor under the supervision of Joyce McKay, Ph.D. She has served numerous internships and externships in adult psychology, counseling, and behavioral health.

Lindsay coordinates the After Care program at Magnolia Creek, leading a weekly After Care Planning group and assisting residents with the transition out of residential treatment. She is also keeps in contact with alumni, supporting them in maintaining recovery.

Katie Moon, B.A. - Lead Staff Counselor

Katie earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Samford University in 2006 while studying under Magnolia Creek's Clinical Director, Nicole Siegfried. Katie most recently worked as a Manager and Skincare Expert at Sephora. As our Lead Staff Counselor, Katie supervises our Staff Counseling staff, provides emotional support to our residents and relays pertinent information to the treatment team.

With her warm smile, effervescent personality and sense of humor, Katie has a gift for making our residents feel comfortable and at home upon arrival and is the current undefeated champion at our traditional Family Weekend Pictionary showdown.

Spring Olson, B.S. - Arts Instructor

Spring has worked in arts education for nearly 20 years. She started as a private art instructor, and then brought art into the classroom at the elementary and middle school levels. She has moved into creating and leading therapeutic arts programs for girls and young women since cofounding a summer art program held at Oasis Women's Counseling Center from 2001 - 2003. Since that time, she has been an arts facilitator for "The Art of Girl Building," a summer arts program for Creative Wellness, a center blending counseling and the creative arts. Spring has Master's level training in Art Education from University of Alabama at Birmingham and holds a B.S. degree from the University of Kansas.

Spring encourages our residents to express themselves freely through art several times a week in Expressive Arts group. She incorporates elements of nature into art whenever possible to promote a connection to the earth. She does, though, look forward to incorporating the use of power tools into projects to instill confidence and a sense of self-sufficiency.

Kimberly Guion, M.A. - Movement Instructor

Kim received her Master's in psychology last year and is currently pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University if Alabama in Birmingham (UAB). She is also a modern dance and swing dance instructor in the local community, teaching children and adults of all ages and abilities. She received a minor in Dance from Middlebury College, and has been teaching movement classes and groups since moving to Birmingham in 2005.

She is excited to guide the weekly Movement Group at Magnolia Creek and help provide a forum for creative movement and body awareness through yoga and dance.

Jim Palmer, M.P.H. - C.E.O. and Executive Director

Jim received a Master of Public Health degree from University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1986. For the past 25 years he managed the Veteran Administration's Southeastern Blind Rehabilitation Center (SBRC), a 32-bed residential treatment program for veterans receiving comprehensive training in adjustment to sight loss. He recently retired as their Assistant Director. During his time at the SBRC, he also set up the hospital's non-profit research corporation of which he has been the Executive Director for the past 17 years. Jim spent the early part of his career as a Blind Rehabilitation and Manual Arts Therapist, working directly with patients in a residential setting.

Jim was lured out of retirement to contribute his extensive leadership and management experience to the Magnolia Creek team. He is also a talented and skilled woodworker, and evidence of his craft can be found throughout the facility.

Ronda Cannon, B.S. - Intake Coordinator

Ronda graduated magna cum laude from Washington State University with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. She spent several years as the Program Coordinator for Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention in Washington state, developing eating disorder prevention programs and creating several presentations and publications on the subject. Ronda also has a strong research and analytical background having worked as a Research Specialist and Project Coordinator for several programs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

With her gentle voice and caring demeanor, Ronda is often the first point of contact for prospective residents and their families. In addition to conducting intake interviews and assisting residents with the financial aspects of care, Ronda is using her research experience to evaluate assessments and develop outcome studies for Magnolia Creek.

Brittany Gregg, B.A. - Intake Assistant

Brittany graduated from Samford University with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, during which she studied under Dr. Nicole Siegfried, and is currently working toward a Master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Brittany started as an intern at Magnolia Creek and serves as a Staff Counselor in addition to her intake duties.

In her spare time, Brittany enjoys attending psychology conferences and presenting research.

Suzanne Zimmerman, Esq. - Business Manager

Suzanne comes to Magnolia Creek from Legal Services of Alabama, where she worked as an Attorney in Elder Law and Family Law. She is an active member of the Alabama Network for Eating Disorder Awareness and has led several eating disorder support groups, including Balance, an interactive support group for women who are overcoming eating disorders. Suzanne holds a Juris Doctor from Cumberland School of Law at Samford University and has held a judicial clerkship in Domestic Relations Court, as well as positions with several private law firms.

In addition to her extensive business duties, Suzanne is the driving force behind all of our outreach efforts, coordinating Magnolia Creek's presence at local events and national conferences. She also continues to plan and coordinate Family Weekends, helping residents' families participate in the treatment process.

Gina Palmer, M.A. - Compliance Coordinator

Gina spent the last 25 years overseeing daily operations and administration at Southeastern Blind Rehabilitation Center (SBRC) and earning several honors and awards during her tenure. She acted as the center's CARF/JCAHO (now Joint Commission) Compliance Manager, maintaining policies and ensuring accreditation standards. Gina also works part time for Weight Watchers, providing guidance and support to members. Gina holds a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Teaching from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor's in Special Education from Boston College.

Gina's hard work has been instrumental to securing our Accreditation from The Joint Commission. She is constantly working with the clinical team to improve our quality of care and adherence to state and accreditation standards. When she isn't thumbing through policy manuals, Gina can be found working in her kitchen, indulging in her passion for Italian and world cuisine.

Apostolos Lerios, M.S. - Information Technology Coordinator

Apostolos “Toli” Lerios received his Master's of Science degree in Computer Science from Stanford University in 1995. Toli worked on his PhD for five years at Stanford, but left the program early to join the Silicon Valley internet boom. During his career, he has worked on NASA and Air Force projects, cutting-edge computer graphics, and has held leading technical positions at several startups, including a medical device manufacturer. Curiosity also got him involved on the business side of those ventures, of which one was sold to a larger firm, and another held a successful IPO. In parallel, he has taught computer science in diverse environments, from the University of Hanoi in Vietnam to Stanford University, where he was awarded the prestigious Gores teaching award.

Toli shares his technical expertise with Magnolia Creek, having set up our IT systems to standards beyond what is typical for businesses of this size. He is also our shareholder liaison and advises on overall strategy.

Christine N. Lerios, B.A. - Website and Marketing Coordinator

Christine received a dual Bachelor's in Human Biology and Economics from Stanford University in 1998 and studied as a Public Policy and International Affairs Fellow at Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School. She spent several years in high tech marketing, crafting marketing strategy, creating brand awareness, and launching products for several tech companies. A foray into the non-profit world led Christine into website development, and she has spent the last five years creating sites for small businesses and non-profit organizations. Christine is also a certified yoga teacher and permaculture designer.

Christine is excited to promote awareness and help others learn about Magnolia Creek and our programs.