Our Team
Dr. Liz Meeks, DSW, LCSW, CADAC II
Clinical Director
We’re so happy you’re here! As Clinical Director of CFS, Corp., I believe that healing happens when care is comprehensive, compassionate, and trauma-informed. At Grasshopper Group, we understand that every person carries a unique story, and we are committed to meeting clients where they are with the support they deserve.
Let’s leap forward together.
Specialties
Trauma-Informed Practice and Interventions, Crisis Intervention,
Sand Tray Therapy, EMDR, Expressive Arts, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Suicide Prevention (QPR), Positive Parenting Program
(Triple P), Substance Use and Recovery
Experience with the following
challenges and/or populations
Substance Use Disorders and Recovery, PTSD, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, Complex Unresolved/Complicated Grief, Life Transitions, Emotion Regulation, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Thinking Distortions, LGBTQIA+ Teens & Young Adults, Families
Qualifications
License: Indiana/34009162A
Illinois/149027401
Degree: Master of Social Work
School: IUPUI
Year Graduated: 2018
Degree: Doctor of Social Work
School: Barry University
Year Graduated: 2024
CADAC II License: C2-51378
Laci Thornton MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Health Services Director
Laci’s journey in healthcare started when she was still in high school, working as a nursing assistant. From there, she worked her way up through the nursing ranks, all while raising her two wonderful children, Hayden and Korbin. Through hard work, determination, and a heart for helping others, she earned her master’s degree in nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University—graduating with honors while working full-time!
At CFS, Laci has been a vital part of our team, playing a key role in leading us to Joint Commission accreditation. She’s also been the visionary behind our integrated healthcare services, implementing a wellness team that has expanded the care we provide to the youth we serve. For Laci, researching the future of healthcare and sharing her knowledge with others isn’t just part of the job—it’s her passion. She truly believes in making a lasting impact on those around her.
As a family nurse practitioner, Laci brings warmth, empathy, and advocacy into every interaction. While she can prescribe medication when necessary, she believes in a holistic approach first—really listening to her patients, educating them on all their options, and making sure they feel heard. More than anything, she wants her patients to understand why they’re taking a medication and feel empowered in their own healthcare decisions.
Qualifications
Indiana Licenses
Registered Nurse: 28177544A
APRN Prescriptive Authority: 71013870A
CSR-Prescriptive Authority: 71013870B
Collaborator: Dr. W. Eric Heath
Physician License: 01049035A
CSR-Physician License: 01049035B
Illinois RN License: 041348592
Illinois APRN License: 209026582
Degree: Master of Science in Nursing
School: Indiana Wesleyan University
Year Graduated: 2020
ANCC Board Certification: Family Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Atwood, MSW, LCSW
Lead Clinician
Hi! I’m Hannah, and I’m truly honored to be here, working with individuals who are ready to invest in their well-being and personal growth. My passion lies in creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where people can explore their thoughts and emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and take meaningful steps toward a more fulfilling life.
I was born and raised in Vincennes, Indiana, but I now call Daviess County home, where I live with my wonderful partner and our two beloved dogs—a Great Pyrenees and a Bernese Mountain Dog. If you know anything about these breeds, you’ll understand why our home often feels like it’s ruled by two gentle, furry giants!
When I’m not working, I love spending time on the front porch with a warm cup of coffee, getting lost in a good book, going for peaceful walks, or simply enjoying quiet moments with my dogs. These small joys in life help me recharge and stay present, something I encourage my clients to embrace as well.
My approach to working with others is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and collaboration. I firmly believe that healing and personal growth happen in spaces where people feel seen, heard, and understood. My goal has always been to be the kind of support I needed when I was younger, and I strive to help others navigate life’s challenges with resilience, self-compassion, and confidence.
If you’re here, you’ve already taken the first step toward positive change, and that’s something to be proud of. I’m excited to walk alongside you on this journey and help you create the life you deserve.
Qualifications
License: Indiana/34012728A
School: University of Southern Indiana
Degree: Master of Social Work
Year Graduated: 2023
Mackenzie Scott, MSW, LSW
Therapist
You are not alone. Seeking help for your mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. If I were to envision a perfect world, mental health treatment and recovery would be accepted as a part of the human experience.
I strive to provide a compassionate and laid-back environment, with empathy as the forefront of every interaction. I have experience working with young children and teenagers and completed a Concentration in Addiction Counseling while studying social work at the University of Southern Indiana. I am passionate about Trauma-Informed Care and Harm-Reduction practices, as I realize the importance of meeting a client where they are and considering the impact their personal experiences have on their physical and emotional well-being.
Having been born and raised in Vincennes, I am excited to be a part of the CFS, Corp./Grasshopper Group team! I look forward to supporting my community by helping others recognize their self-worth and reach their full potential, while also advocating for social justice along the way.
When I am not wearing my “therapist hat”, you can find me working as a Project Coordinator for CFS, Corp.
Trainings/Certifications
Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Informed Care, Harm-Reduction, Child Abuse and Neglect, Crisis Intervention, Mental Health First-Aid, QPR Suicide Intervention, and Addiction Counseling
Qualifications
License: Indiana/33012668A
Degree: Masters of Social Work
School: University of Southern Indiana
Year Graduated: 2024
Emily Garcia, LMFTA
Therapist
Hi, I'm Emily! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma-informed care for individuals, couples, and families navigating grief, loss, and trauma. My approach is grounded in humanistic principles that honor each person's inherent worth and foster healing through genuine connection and empathy.
I believe that therapy is most powerful when built on a foundation of compassion, authenticity, and collaboration. In our work together, I strive to create a therapeutic environment where you feel truly seen, heard, and understood. I recognize that each person's story is uniquely shaped by both personal history and lived experience, and I am committed to meeting you exactly where you are while supporting your movement toward greater emotional balance, resilience, and self-understanding.
I am particularly passionate about working with couples, helping partners enhance their communication, restore trust, and strengthen their relationships through deeper emotional connection. Whether you're facing a specific challenge or seeking to deepen your bond, I work collaboratively with couples to create meaningful and lasting change in their relationships.
My clinical work is informed not only by my professional training but also by my own lived experiences, which allow me to connect with clients in a genuine and relatable way. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I am honored to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing and growth.
I am dedicated to serving individuals and families in Daviess and Knox County, providing a respectful and supportive environment where transformation can unfold naturally and at your own pace.
Qualifications
License: Indiana/85000554A
School: Capella University
Degree: Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy
Year Graduated: 2023
Member of AAMFT
Honors Pi Delta Kappa
National Society of Leadership and Success
Danielle Christian, MSW, LSW
Therapist
Hi, I'm Danielle! I was born in Vincennes and grew up just across the border in Lawrenceville, but I'm so glad to find myself back in this community doing work that truly matters to me. Outside of the office, I'm a devoted animal lover through and through. I share my home with a very dramatic husky and two cats. If you ever want to swap pet stories, I'm always happy to oblige!
My journey in social work started at Vincennes University, where I earned my associate degree and first discovered my passion for helping others. From there, I went on to earn my Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Southern Indiana in 2016 and jumped straight into the field. For the next eight years, I worked as a case manager serving children and families both in their homes and within local school systems. That season of my career shaped me in ways I'm still grateful for. I loved the collaborative nature of the work, sitting down with kids, caregivers, and school staff, and finding solutions together. There is something incredibly meaningful about showing up for a family during a hard chapter and walking alongside them toward something better.
After about six years in the field, I felt the pull to go deeper, so I returned to school to pursue my Master of Social Work, which I completed in 2024. Following graduation, I stepped into an unexpected role as a Life Skills teacher, working with students with low-functioning autism who were nonverbal. It was quite the adjustment, and one that stretched me professionally and personally in the best ways. I have tremendous respect for those students and the educators who serve them every day. But somewhere along the way, I realized I had never stopped missing social work, and I knew it was time to come back to the work I was meant to do.
I believe deeply in creating a space where clients feel safe, seen, and never judged. Whether you are navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, or simply trying to figure out your next step, I want to meet you exactly where you are. Healing looks different for everyone, and I am committed to walking alongside you at whatever pace feels right. If you are here, you have already done something courageous. I look forward to being part of your journey.
Qualifications
License: Indiana/99135960A
School: University of Southern Indiana
Degree: Masters in Social Work
Year Graduated: 2024
Melanie Taggart, CCMA
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
Hi, I'm Melanie! As a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, I work alongside Nurse Practitioner Laci Thornton to support the health and wellness of our clients every step of the way. From taking vitals and preparing patients for appointments to assisting with clinical procedures, I'm here to make sure every visit feels smooth, comfortable, and supported.
In addition to my role as a Medical Assistant, I also serve as Grasshopper Group's Healthcare Navigator, helping clients understand their options, connect with the right resources, and find their footing in a healthcare system that can often feel complicated and overwhelming. Whether you need help understanding your coverage, locating a specialist, or simply figuring out the next step in your care, I'm here to help make that process a little less daunting.
I've been part of the Grasshopper Group team for many years, and serving this community is something I'm deeply passionate about. I believe that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, deserves access to compassionate, high-quality care. That belief is what drives me every single day. Whether you're coming in for a routine visit or navigating something more complex, I want you to feel welcomed, respected, and cared for from the moment you walk through the door.
My commitment to others doesn't stop at the clinic walls. I'm a dedicated champion for vulnerable populations and believe wholeheartedly in showing up for people when it matters most. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your care here at Grasshopper Group!
CCMA Credential: Z8N6X4G6
Mariah Luchtefeld
Vincennes Office Manager
Hi! I’m Mariah, the Office Manager here at Grasshopper Group, and I’m so happy to be part of a team that truly cares about the people we serve. Whether you’re walking through our doors or calling in, I’m usually the first person you’ll see or hear, and I love making sure everyone feels welcome and supported from the start.
Life outside of work is pretty busy—I’m a proud mom of three amazing boys who keep me on my toes! When I do get some free time, I love being outdoors, enjoying Mexican food, listening to music, and doing a little shopping.
Before joining Grasshopper Group, I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education and spent several years working in childcare and preschool settings. I’ve always been passionate about helping others, and that’s exactly what drew me to this role. Now, I get to bring that same care and energy into helping our clients and team every day.
I know that life can get overwhelming, and if there’s anything I can do to make your experience here easier, I’m happy to help. Whether it’s answering questions, scheduling appointments, or just offering a friendly smile, I want you to feel comfortable and taken care of when you’re here.
I look forward to meeting you and being part of your journey with Grasshopper Group!
Madi Lee
Washington Office Manager
Hi there! I’m the Administrative Assistant at Grasshopper Group’s Washington clinic, where I help create a welcoming and organized environment for our clients and team. From scheduling appointments to assisting with day-to-day operations, I take pride in making sure every visit is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
I’m a proud graduate of Washington High School, and being part of this community has shaped who I am today. That’s why I’m especially grateful to work for an organization that shares my passion for giving back. Grasshopper Group’s commitment to supporting local initiatives and making a difference is something that truly inspires me.
When I’m not at the clinic, you’ll most likely find me on the soccer field! Whether I’m coaching young athletes, cheering on the Indiana Hoosiers, soccer has always been a big part of my life.
As the first friendly face you’ll see when you walk through our doors, I’m here to welcome you with a smile and assist with anything you need. I love meeting new people and being a helpful resource for our clients, ensuring they feel comfortable and supported from the moment they arrive.
I look forward to getting to know you and being part of your journey with Grasshopper Group!