Our Vision: To provide mindful, evidence-based and trauma-informed care, and to treat each individual holistically and with compassion.
Dr. Amy Heckler DNP, PMHNP-BC
Dr. Heckler specializes in treating: ADHD, PMDD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Burnout and fatigue issues in women.
Dr. Heckler obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville in 2003. She began her nursing career in various critical care settings and in 2008 transitioned to become a psychiatric nurse where she treated adults, children and geriatric populations in an acute care hospital setting. She graduated with her Doctorate in Child and Family Mental Health in 2015 from Arizona State University and it was there she realized her passion for integrative medicine. She has worked beside and studied with experienced Functional Medicine practitioners and nutritional therapists in the past that has helped guide her specific treatment approach. She is also passionate about trauma-informed care, and making sure her patients’ trauma history is addressed as an important part of the healing process. Dr. Heckler is committed to helping patients heal holistically by offering integrative consults that include in depth evaluations, offering brief supportive therapy and treatment approaches including:
Monitoring and correcting nutrient deficiencies
Microbiome testing
Integrative approach to PMDD (Pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder) and highly sensitive types
Addressing trauma history and referring for specialized treatment when necessary
Referrals for TMS (Trans Magnetic Stimulation)
Amy J. Vargas, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Dr. Vargas holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from the University of Miami and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Gonzaga University. She is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has advanced training in both substance use disorders and perinatal mental health. Since 2009, Dr. Vargas has worked in a variety of mental health care settings including inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential treatment for military service members, and correctional healthcare. She is drawn to treating those with PTSD and trauma-related symptoms. Other clinical interests include:
Depression and Anxiety
ADHD
Bipolar Disorder
COVID-19 related mood symptoms
Grounded in a strengths-based care model, Dr. Vargas’ practice is patient-centered and individualized. She will work with you to understand your goals, share evidenced-based treatment options and ensure your plan meets your unique needs. Dr. Vargas is adept at medication management for both adults and youth.
*Independent practitioner is working solely and is responsible for the healthcare services they provide working in association with The Center of Mindful Healing.
Sandy Lindell, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC
Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Sandy is an advanced practice registered nurse and is board certified as a Nurse Practitioner in Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received a master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Minnesota in 2008. Sandy began her nursing career as a registered nurse at a University based hospital caring for patients with acute and chronic medical issues. It was through this experience that she was struck by the emotional resiliency of the human condition and the far reaching impact of mental health on overall wellbeing. This prompted a transfer to inpatient psychiatry and return to school for her master’s degree specializing in psychiatric nursing. Sandy has worked in a variety of settings including private practice, outpatient clinic, inpatient hospital, state hospital, and correctional care. She provides comprehensive mental health treatment including evaluation and medication management for adults of all ages with a variety of mental health issues including ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and thought disorders, as well as concurrent concerns related to chemical use.
*Independent practitioner is working solely and is responsible for the healthcare services they provide working in association with The Center of Mindful Healing.
David Lim, LICSW, MBA, MSW
David is a trained, practiced and evidence-based clinician. He has been in licensed clinical practice for 12 years and offers psychotherapy, life & parent coaching, clinical supervision, group facilitation, psycho-educational instruction & behavioral health organizational leadership. David works with adults, teens, children, families, couples and groups. Energy, emotion, intuition & the subconscious connects us all. While experience can bring forth suffering and pain — it is through experience that will ultimately bring forth healing, transformation, growth, and change. Change the way you experience yourself and your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, then the things that you look at will change.
*Independent practitioner is working solely and is responsible for the healthcare services they provide working in association with The Center of Mindful Healing.
Stephanie Hock, RN, BSN
Stephanie graduated with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing with honors from Chamberlain College of Nursing in 2012. She has been practicing as a critical care float nurse at a level one trauma center in St. Louis MO ever since. She provides nursing and clinical support on a part time basis for the Center of Mindful Healing and enjoys helping the practice run smoothly. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her 1 year old daughter and 5 year old son. She enjoys anything outdoors and loves flowers and gardening.
Chris Knudson
Chris joined our team in December of 2021 and works in administration. She has worked in the mental health field for over twenty years and managed a therapy office for 14 years and has also worked as a billing specialist. She is a proud, retired Navy spouse and mother to two amazing children. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, skiing, anything on the water, and line dancing.
