Meet Our Team!

Kristen Hickey

Taking the first step toward mental wellness for you or your family is a significant decision, and I recognize that navigating this process can feel daunting. My mission is to offer a safe, empathetic space where young people and their loved ones are truly seen and valued throughout their healing journey.

As Kristen Hickey, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in delivering personalized, science-backed psychiatric interventions tailored for patients from childhood through age 22.

With nearly three decades of experience in mental health nursing and more than six years as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have had the privilege of caring for children, adolescents, adults, and families in community mental health, acute inpatient psychiatry, Community-Based Acute Treatment (CBAT), school nursing, and educational settings. These experiences have strengthened my belief that healing begins with connection, compassion, and collaboration.

Throughout my career, I have worked alongside families, therapists, primary care providers, schools, and community agencies to help young people navigate life's challenges and achieve meaningful, lasting growth.

Dr. Allison Beckler

As a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist with over ten years of experience, I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, young adults, and their families feel understood, supported, and empowered to thrive. Throughout my career, I have also had the privilege of serving in two medical director positions, experiences that have further shaped my commitment to thoughtful, comprehensive, and compassionate mental health care.

I recognize that seeking psychiatric care for your child can feel overwhelming, and I strive to create a welcoming environment where young people and their families feel comfortable, heard, and respected. My approach is collaborative and individualized, taking the time to understand each child’s unique strengths, challenges, experiences, and family dynamics.

At Kind Aligned Hearts, I believe meaningful progress begins with listening, building trust, and working together. I partner with parents and caregivers and, when appropriate, collaborate with therapists, schools, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care tailored to each young person’s needs.

My goal is to help children and young adults navigate challenges, build resilience, strengthen relationships, and develop the skills they need to thrive. I feel privileged to support families through difficult moments and to be part of their journey toward greater understanding, connection, and lasting positive change.

I want every family to know that they have a partner in care and that they do not have to navigate these challenges alone.

Emily Mayo

Hi, I’m Emily. Being a social worker was never in my life plan growing up. I wasn’t going to be like my dad. I was going to be a screenwriter and even went to school for film. But I needed a job. I started working as a relief counselor at an adolescent group home.

That was it.

For the past 20 years, I’ve dedicated myself to helping children and adolescents overcome challenges in residential, crisis, schools, and inpatient settings.

I became my dad.

Humor and play are two of my main philosophies for treatment. My favorite parts of my job are advocating for little humans and helping traumatized children be kids again.

Max

At Kind Aligned Hearts, we know that visiting a psychiatric practice can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for children who are feeling anxious or unsure. That’s where Max comes in!

Max is our friendly therapy dog who may be available to join appointments and offer an extra dose of comfort, companionship, and reassurance. His gentle presence can help children feel more relaxed, safe, and at ease as they navigate their mental health journey.

Whether it’s a wagging tail, a quiet moment together, or simply having a furry friend nearby, Max helps make our practice a little warmer and more welcoming.

Max is here to remind every child that they don’t have to face their worries alone.

Max’s participation is optional and can be arranged based on each child’s comfort level and needs.