Our Story
Simmons Early Intervention Therapy (SEIT) was founded in 2006, 
by owner Mrs. Simmons. SEIT began as a small agency providing therapy to children in one small county. During this time, Mrs. Simmons was the only therapist providing services for the agency and she often struggled to fit all of the clients into her weekly schedule.
After continuously being requested by numerous families, Mrs. Simmons began to expand her agency by hiring well-qualified therapist as well as offering therapy services in other counties. In doing this, the agency
continued to flourish and grow. We are proud to say that we now provide therapy services to many counties throughout the state of NC!

Our mission
for children is,
We Put The Child FIRST!
SEIT feels that all children deserve a fair chance in life regardless of their needs or circumstances. By providing therapy services to children at such a young age, SEIT will give them that opportunity. Through play, children will engage in activities and interact with others in their natural environment while learning essential tools they need to help them grow and develop. Through family interactions and modeling therapist are able to assist the “whole family” with important skills and techniques that can be implemented throughout daily routines to better assist the child.
F: Family Interaction and Involvement
I: Individual Children Have Individual Needs
R: Respecting The Fact That All Children Learn Differently
S: Supporting Your Child's Growth & Development
T: Taking The Time Out of Your Life To Give
Your Child What They Need To Succeed
Our mission for life is,
Intervene Today, Transform Tomorrow.
Intervene Today, Transform Tomorrow. We are dedicated to helping individuals TRANSFORM their lives by
providing support, guidance, and tools that create lasting change.
TRANSFORM stands for:
Trust – To build trusting and supportive relationships.
Resilience – Ready to rise above obstacles and adversity.
Action – Actively advancing toward meaningful goals.
Nurture – Nurturing personal growth and well-being.
Strength – Standing strong in every season of life.
Focus – Fostering clarity and purposeful direction.
Opportunity – Opening doors to new possibilities.
Renewal – Renewing hope and inspiring fresh starts.
Motivation – Moving forward with courage and determination.
Meet our Team
Office Staff
Lori
Office Manager
Lori is an experienced healthcare professional with over 35 years of expertise in medical office management. A 1985 Eastern Wayne High School graduate, she attended Wayne Community College in Goldsboro, NC, and LSU in Alexandria, LA. While she was brought to Goldsboro by Seymour Johnson AFB, she considers Goldsboro her home.
Lori is highly skilled in overseeing daily operations, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. With extensive experience in both hospital and medical office settings, she has a proven track record of improving patient satisfaction and streamlining administrative processes.
Passionate about providing excellent care to those in need, Lori also has a deep love for children and cherishes her six grandchildren.
Jeanette
Receptionist
Jeanette is an experienced student support specialist and manager. She graduated from Lenoir Community College's GED program in 2017 and is currently pursuing an associate degree in business administration. With a passion for serving children and interpreting for non-English-speaking communities, Jeanette has four years of experience working in the school system with Pitt County Schools. She provided one-on-one support to students with different disabilities, worked as a bus monitor to ensure safe rides home, and assisted bus drivers with various tasks.
Additionally, Jeanette has five years of experience in customer service and served as a District Manager in New York. She believes in building strong relationships with clients and families and always strives to go above and beyond, recognizing the importance of continuous growth.
Kylie
Adminstrative Assistant
Kylie is the Administrative Assistant at Simmons Early Intervention Therapy. She joined the team to contribute to the company's growth while improving her skills for her son.
Kylie graduated from Southern Wayne High School in 2020. She is attending Wayne Community College and aspiring to become a Physical Therapist Assistant. Passionate about helping others, Kylie strives to bring joy and smiles to those around her.
Shannon
Developmental Therapy Coordinator
Shannon is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in business operations and a passion for helping children. She graduated from Smithfield-Selma High School in 1997 and earned an Associate Degree in Applied Science, specializing in Medical Office Administration, from Johnston Community College.
After moving to North Carolina at the age of 12, Shannon has worked in various sectors, including home care, staffing agencies, and managing multiple storage facilities. She is committed to her work and her team, particularly in coordinating support for children in need.
As a mother of four, her children are her world. Outside of work, Shannon has served on the Pine Level Parks and Recreation Board for over 15 years, coaching youth in cheerleading and softball.
Lindsey
Early Childhood Operations Manager
Lindsey is completing her dual Bachelor's Degree in elementary and special education at Western Governors University. She aspires to return to WGU and earn a master’s in business. Her experience in both public schools and early childhood education, including her work with Berkeley County School District and as a Daycare Director, Lindsey has dedicated her career to creating inclusive, supportive environments for all children.
As a mother of three, one of whom has exceptional needs, Lindsey brings a deeply personal perspective to her work. She is a passionate advocate for early intervention, disability awareness, and connecting families with the community resources they need to thrive. Lindsey is currently serving as the early Childhood Operations Manager in Goldsboro, NC.
Lindsey is committed to leading with empathy, equipping early educators with the tools and knowledge to grow, building strong relationships with families and the community, and helping every child reach their fullest potential.
Tammy
Human Resources Coordinator
Originally from Beaufort County, Tammy moved to Wilson County in 2014. She is a proud mother of two and grandmother of two. Tammy's career in the medical field began in 1999 as a front desk receptionist. Over the years, she advanced through roles such as supervisor, billing specialist, and practice manager. Medical billing, a field she has always enjoyed due to her love for numbers, has been the core of her professional career.
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In 2022, Tammy transitioned to full-time Human Resources, where she embraced the opportunity to be a friendly and supportive employee resource. Her goal is to bring both structure and heart to HR, serving as a common ground for staff while ensuring a positive and thriving workplace.
Lauren
Digital Marketing Manager
Lauren has a passion for learning new things and is an innovative thinker with a creative outlook. She expresses her creative design skills to effectively communicate SEIT's message through branding, and print and web advertising.
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She holds over 10 years of experience in the industry and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Design Communication and a minor in Marketing from Thomas Jefferson University.
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She has a passion for child development in which she applies early intervention knowledge learned while working with the SEIT team when raising her own children.
Joy Bracey-Barrett
Mental Health Coordinator
Joy is the Mental Health Coordinator at Simmons Early Intervention Therapy. She was born and raised in Goldsboro, NC, and is a wife and mother of three. Joy began her career in mental health in June of 1994 as a direct care professional working with dually diagnosed clients.
Over the next 21 years, she worked passionately to serve the mental health population in Wayne, Lenoir, Johnston, Wake, and Halifax Counties, gradually advancing through management to become Director of Community-Based Services.
Her work in mental health became a mission, focusing on educating individuals and families, connecting them to resources, and improving their quality of life. Joy continues to be dedicated to serving individuals and families seeking mental health services.
Debi
Director of Clinical Services
Debi earned her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Eastern Kentucky University in 1994 and her Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology from Radford University in 1996. With extensive experience collaborating with individuals of all ages, Debi has specialized in treating a range of conditions, including Autism, Down Syndrome, Voice Disorders, and unique conditions such as Paradoxical Vocal Fold Dysfunction. She has worked with both low-tech and high-tech assistive technologies, including Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) and Visual Schedules.
As a musician, Debi incorporates music into her sessions to better engage children and tailor her approach to their individual needs. Her passion lies in helping children find their voice, using innovative techniques when traditional methods fall short.
Dena
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant
Dena is a wife and mother of two adult sons. She grew up in Goldsboro and graduated from the Speech and Language Assistants program at Fayetteville Technical Community College in 2010 with an associate’s degree in applied science. She currently lives in the Smithfield area.
Dena considers herself a patient advocate and has a strong passion for serving children with speech and language needs. She has worked with a variety of diagnoses, which include Childhood Apraxia, Selective Mutism, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Articulation/Phonology Disorders, and Developmental Delays.
Dena has worked in the pediatric field for over 30 years, specifically in speech therapy for the past 15 years. She is looking forward to expanding her range of experience and services into the Wayne County area.
Wolly
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant
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Jennifer
Occupational Therapist
Diana
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Ashlyn
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Speech and Occupational Therapy
SPOTLIGHT: DEVELOPMENTAL THERAPIST
Kelly
Developmental Therapist
Kelly holds an Associate of Arts Degree from James Sprunt Community College and a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Mount Olive. She is a licensed educator with a North Carolina Standard Professional II Teaching License. She has thirteen years of experience teaching young children in the public school system and five years in a private daycare setting.
Kelly has worked with children from diverse ability backgrounds, including those with developmental delays, visual and hearing impairments, and behavioral concerns. Her dedication to early childhood education focuses on creating safe, supportive learning environments while fostering positive relationships and maintaining effective communication with parents and families.
Tiffany
Developmental Therapist
Tiffany holds a Bachelor's in early childhood education from the University of Mount Olive. She is certified in Birth to Kindergarten Teaching, Triple P Parenting Facilitation, CLASS, NC Infant Toddler Specialist, and as a Registered Behavior Technician. With 14 years of experience in preschool education, Tiffany has worked as a paraprofessional, supporting children with autism, special needs, or developmental delays.
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She is also certified in SIDS and First Aid/CPR and has specialized training in Conscious Discipline, Behavior Modification, and before- and After-School Care. Tiffany is passionate about helping children master new skills in ways that suit their unique learning styles and finds joy in witnessing their progress and excitement.
Trickey
Developmental Therapist
Trickey is a dedicated mentor, educator, and entrepreneur with a passion for inspiring youth. Born in Greenville, NC, and raised in Farmville, he graduated from Farmville Central High School in 1999 before serving 20 years in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his military career, Trickey specialized in Administration and Human Resources, served as a Drill Instructor, and taught as a College Naval ROTC Instructor. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in business administration from Columbia Southern University while on active duty.
After retiring from the Marines, Trickey worked as a Middle and High School JROTC Instructor in Texas and mentored troubled youth. He also contributed to Tarheel Challenge Academy in North Carolina, helping at-risk teens find direction and purpose. In 2020, Trickey returned to Pitt County, NC, where he pursued entrepreneurship by opening Trickey Hair Studio, Finch Tavern and Bistro, and founding Trickey’s Real Life Leadership Institute, a nonprofit focused on hands-on youth mentorship.
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With over 20 years of basketball coaching experience—from youth leagues to AAU and Marine Corps teams- Trickey uses sports as a platform for leadership development. He has led Toys for Tots drives, built after-school sports programs at local YMCAs, and remains deeply involved in community service. Known for his strong work ethic, positive mindset, and commitment to uplifting young people, Trickey believes that work ethic and perseverance are the keys to success.
Jessy
Developmental Therapy
Jessy holds a Bachelor's Degree from St. Andrew's University and earned her Birth–Kindergarten Licensure through East Carolina University. With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, she brings both leadership and hands-on classroom expertise to her work with young learners.
For seven years, Jessy served as the Preschool Director at the local YMCA, where she led program development, supported staff growth, and fostered an inclusive environment where children thrived. After relocating, she continued her career in early childhood education by joining Wayne County Public Schools, where she has worked for the past eight years. In this role, she has supported children at various developmental stages, built strong relationships with families, and collaborated with educators to promote successful early learning experiences.
Jessy is deeply passionate about helping children and families reach their full potential. She believes the early years are critical in shaping a child’s lifelong success and strives to make a meaningful impact in every child's life each and every day.
Latosha
Developmental Therapist
LaTosha holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management and Health Informatics and brings over 25 years of experience in early childhood education. She has served in various roles, including childcare center director, NC Pre-K teacher, and educator within collaborative programs supporting children with exceptional needs.
Her background includes extensive experience working with children diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, ADD, Challenging Behaviors, Down Syndrome, Sensory Processing Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Clove Syndrome. LaTosha has also held administrative positions, including roles as an administrative assistant and literacy facilitator, and currently supports school system operations as a budget specialist.
LaTosha is passionate about working one-on-one with children as a developmental therapist. She recognizes that every child develops uniquely. She is deeply committed to ensuring that each child and their family can access the resources and support needed to reach their full potential. She lives by the belief that "Big journeys begin with small steps."
Cassandra
Developmental Therapist
Cassandra holds a Master's Degree in Human Resource Management from Strayer University and a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from The University of Mount Olive. She is a licensed teacher with over twelve years of experience working with young children.
Throughout her career, Cassandra has provided educational support to children with Autism, Developmental Delays, ADHD, ADD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Challenging Behaviors, and Social-Emotional Delays. She has worked in both Head Start and state-funded pre-kindergarten programs, gaining expertise in inclusive and developmentally appropriate practices.
Currently, Cassandra serves full-time as a lead teacher in a state pre-kindergarten classroom and also mentors beginning educators. She is deeply passionate about the teaching profession, viewing it as the cornerstone of all other fields—her guiding philosophy—“Tell me, and I forget. Teach me, and I remember. Involve me, and I will learn "—reflects her commitment to engaging teachers, families, and children in a collaborative learning process that fosters leadership, understanding, and value for all involved.
Licensed Counselors
Magnolia "Maggie"
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Magnolia is a proud Haitian American, born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. Her life has been shaped by resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to helping others find healing and empowerment. Fluent in Haitian Kreyòl, she values her cultural roots and uses her background to connect with individuals from diverse walks of life.
From an early age, Magnolia felt called to serve and uplift others, leading her to a career in mental health counseling, she brings deep empathy, cultural awareness, professionalism, and expertise to her work, making a lasting impact.
She holds a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling Therapy from Capella University and is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), and National Certified Counselor (NCC). With over eight years of experience, she has worked extensively as a Behavioral Specialist, providing therapy and support to individuals, couples, and families navigating life’s challenges.
Magnolia’s therapeutic approach is person-centered, solution-focused, and trauma-informed incorporates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Counseling and Expressive Arts Therapy.
She specializes in working with individuals facing:
✔ Trauma and grief
✔ Substance use and addiction recovery
✔ Relationship and family struggles
✔ Domestic violence and crisis intervention
✔ Stress and work-life balance
✔ Life transitions
Beyond her professional work, Magnolia is a devoted wife of 13 years and a mother to two wonderful children, a son and a daughter. Her faith, family, and Haitian heritage keep her grounded and has fueled her dedication to service.
She believes in the power of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. Her mission is to create a safe space where individuals can embrace their true selves and grow into their fullest potential. She strives to uplift, guide, and empower those around her through therapy, community engagement, or personal connections.
Constance "CJ"
Licensed Clinical Mental Health CounselorConstance “CJ” is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) in the State of North Carolina. She is also a Certified Peer Support Specialist, Mental Health Trainer, Advocate, and Community Worker, with a comprehensive background in addiction counseling, mental health services, and community advocacy.
Constance earned her master’s in social work from Walden University and a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from the University of Arizona Global Campus. She is certified by the State of North Carolina as a Peer Support Specialist and holds additional certifications in Mental Health, ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences), Trauma-Informed Care, and Resilience. Constance is also trained in Self-Sufficiency, ROMA, First Aid/CPR/bloodborne pathogens, Certified CRM Training, and Leadership.
In addition to her clinical work, Constance serves as a Mental Health Supervisor, where she leads and supports a team of professionals to ensure high standards of care in the field. As a Child Counselor, she specializes in helping children and adolescents navigate emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges, providing a safe and nurturing space for young individuals to grow and thrive.
A passionate advocate for mental health, diversity, and inclusion, Constance has led several key initiatives aimed at supporting low-income individuals and families, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to improve their quality of life. She is an active National Association of Social Workers member, advocating for mental health awareness and support within underserved communities.
Crystal
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Crystal is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with twelve years of experience serving clients in various therapeutic settings. Throughout her career, she has worked with youth ages 11-18 and adults in outpatient therapy, school counseling, and Intensive In-Home services.
Crystal earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from East Carolina University in 1999 and completed her Master of Science in School Counseling in 2010. She received initial licensure from the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors in 2011.
With a passion for working with youth, Crystal is dedicated to finding creative and realistic ways for her clients to address their goals and reach their full potential through a caring and nurturing process.
Certified Peer Support Specialist
Reverend Howard
Peer Support Specialist
Reverend Howard is a Peer Support Specialist with many years of experience supporting individuals and families. He studied at Shaw Divinity School Seminary Extension with a concentration in Religion and Bible History, and he holds an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Mental Health.
Reverend Howard retired after thirty years of dedicated service to the State of North Carolina. In addition to his professional work, he has served on both the Trustee and Deacon boards within his local church community. He began his ministry in June 1995, was ordained the following year through a regional Baptist association, and currently serves as a senior pastor. His lifelong passion is helping people through faith, support, and compassionate care.
Jaleesa
Peer Support Specialist
Jaleesa is an experienced Certified Peer Support Specialist, earning her certification from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. While she has been certified in Peer Support for two years, Jaleesa brings prior experience in mental health.
She believes that drawing from her personal journey allows her to motivate others to define their own goals and strategies, helping them take meaningful steps toward improving their lives. As a Certified Peer Support Specialist, Jaleesa uses her experiences to support and inspire others, fostering a sense of hope and empowerment.
Lonnie
Peer Support Specialist
Lonnie is a devoted husband and proud father of three who brings both personal experience and professional training to his work in recovery. As a North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist, Lonnie is passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate their own healing journeys, drawing on community resources and cognitive restructuring techniques.
Currently pursuing an Associate of Arts in Human Services at Wayne Community College, Lonnie has also completed the North Carolina Drug and Alcohol Counselor Certification through Randolph Community College. His commitment to helping others is rooted in his own life of recovery, having overcome years of addiction.
Lonnie is dedicated to inspiring hope, promoting positive change, and empowering individuals to build healthy, fulfilling lives.
Monica
Bilingual Certified Peer Support Specialist
Monica is a dedicated and resilient individual who has overcome significant life challenges with strength and determination. In recovery for over 10 years, Monica deeply understands the complexities of addiction and the perseverance required to rebuild a fulfilling life. She became a mother at 16, which led her to pause her education, but her commitment to personal growth never wavered. In 2019, after balancing full-time employment and raising three children, she earned her GED from Wayne Community College, exemplifying her dedication to self-improvement and learning.
Over the past three years, Monica has served as a Volunteer Coordinator, a role that has equipped her with valuable knowledge of community resources that support individuals on their paths to recovery. This experience has strengthened her ability to connect people with the tools and services they need to heal and move forward.
Monica’s story is one of perseverance, empathy, and an unwavering belief in the power of second chances. She is committed to being a beacon of hope and change for others, proving that it is never too late to make a meaningful difference.