About A Step Ahead Counseling Services, LLC

Life brings both meaningful moments and difficult seasons. When challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, loss, or major life changes begin to feel overwhelming, it can be hard to know where to turn. You do not have to face those moments alone.

My name is Brandon Barnhart, and I am the owner of A Step Ahead Counseling Services, LLC. I believe that with the right support, guidance, and tools, healing and growth are possible for everyone. My passion for counseling comes from a deep belief in the importance of human connection and the power of feeling truly heard and understood.

I have experience working with diverse individuals, families, and groups in community mental health settings, with children and adolescents in schools, and with adults navigating a wide range of personal challenges. I specialize in working with individuals ages 12 and older who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, grief and loss, stress, and life transitions such as separation or divorce.

My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and strengths-based. Together, we will identify practical solutions, build on your existing strengths, and create meaningful progress toward the life you want to live. I strive to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can openly process difficult experiences and feel empowered in your journey forward. For clients who desire it, faith and spiritual support can also be incorporated into the counseling process.

My hope is that through our work together, you will find clarity, healing, and renewed confidence. I look forward to walking alongside you — one step at a time — as you move toward growth and emotional wellness.

To schedule with Brandon please contact him at brandon@astepaheadcounseling.com or call 717-609-0113.

My name is Josh Hager, LSW, and I am so glad you are here! Ever since I was a child, I have felt drawn to helping people before I really knew how to and after engaging in my own therapy as a teen, the path to becoming what I am today revealed itself to me and has informed my journey to this day. I landed in the field of social work because I resonated with the professional values of social justice, promoting the dignity and worth of all people, and the importance of human relationships. 

In my career thus far, I have had experience within the fields of addiction and community mental health and have worked with clients of all ages and walks of life.  I enjoy working with those that are 12 years of age and older.  My social work journey came to an unexpected crossroads when I experienced several personal losses a year into my career.  This has allowed me to understand and appreciate those that have experienced grief and loss.

 I specialize in providing individual counseling for adolescents and adults navigating issues with depression, anxiety, identity, life transitions and relationships, with special considerations being given to folks within the LGBTQIA+ community. I primarily operate from a strengths-based framework that is informed by elements of CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and intersectionality.  I view the therapeutic relationship as a reparative social connection where the client is an expert in their own lived experience. Through each conversation, we will work together to create a space of safety where we can build on your strengths, learn from one another, and develop a connection that will facilitate change. 

If you would like to learn more about myself or are interested in starting your therapy journey with me, please feel free to contact me at josh@astepaheadcounseling.com or call at 814.767.0305.

You don’t need to have all the answers or know exactly where you’re headed to begin healing. All it takes is curiosity and openness to taking the next step forward.

My name is Carlie, and I enjoy supporting others by creating space for understanding, empowerment, and hope during life’s challenges.

I approach each person with empathy and the belief that we are experts on our own lives. My role is to offer guidance as you cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself. This can sometimes require exploration of past experiences, relationships, and the complex thoughts and emotions which can affect your daily life. I also recognize how outside factors such as your environment, your physical health and access to vital needs can impact mental health and the way you move through the world.

I have experience working with people of all ages who have experienced trauma, grief and loss. I have also supported adults living with chronic illnesses, neurocognitive disorders and those who find themselves caring for a loved one.

I am inspired to do this work by my firsthand experiences and my belief that everyone is deserving of support. Therapy works best when there is a trusting and collaborative relationship where you can feel safe being your authentic self.

Therapy is a process, and at times growth may require courage to look at parts of your life that feel painful or overwhelming. You do not have to do that work alone.

If you are interested in working together, please email me at carlie@astepaheadcounseling.com or call/text (717) 298-0424

Hey there, my name is Joshua Myers.  I have been helping children and adolescents for almost 10 years, primarily within the school setting.  I currently work in the Harrisburg School District with elementary age children.  Throughout my career I have worked with children in many different facets providing conflict management, social skills and coping skills, communication concerns and building healthy relationships.  I have also helped children walk through trauma and grief.  Emotional regulation is important for all of us! 

As a therapist, I use an eclectic blend of counseling, focusing on strengths based, CBT and DBT.  I have also worked with people that have experienced trauma and assisted them in walking through that trauma so healing can take place.  I believe that it is important to be client focused and I tailor what approaches and techniques I use depending on what a client's needs may be.  

I whole heartedly love guiding kids and families through their mental health journey and supporting them however I can.

If you would like more information about me or to schedule an appointment to begin your therapy journey, please reach out through call or text at 717-388-0483 or through email at joshm@astepaheadcounseling.com

I look forward to helping you through your therapy journey!