Your Partners in Progress: The Perspectives Therapy Team

Dr. Sarah Vidal McMurtry PhD

Clinical Supervisor
Licensed Psychologist

Hi! I’m Dr. Sarah Vidal McMurtry—affectionately known as “Dr. Sarah Mac.” I specialize in training and developing clinicians in the use of evidence-based interventions and wellness-centered methods that support parents, youth, adolescents, and communities—especially those impacted by trauma. My greatest passions lie in empowering individuals, celebrating diversity, and building community-based programs that promote healing and growth.

At Perspectives, I supervise staff clinicians’ counseling services. I also train our clinical team in evidence-based models like Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for young children and their families. Right now, our team is deepening its expertise in treatments specifically designed for children ages 0–5 but also develop expertise in clinical support for teens and adults with ADHD and autism. It’s an exciting time of growth and learning!

I created a platform coined, THRIVE, to help health and wellness leaders and high performers to improve their overall wellbeing so they can show up fully—for themselves and for others. I believe that healing happens in many spaces, and I’m always exploring new ways to deliver care that feels affirming, accessible, and transformative.

I earned my Ph.D. in Psychology from The University of Southern Mississippi, completed my predoctoral internship at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and a postdoctoral fellowship at Emory University/Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children. I also spent six years conducting psychological, speech-language, and neuropsychological evaluations at Emory University’s Department of Human Genetics, working with both children and adults with developmental challenges.

Teaching has always been a joy for me. I previously served as an adjunct professor, teaching Multicultural Counseling at The University of Southern Mississippi, and continue to prioritize multiculturally competent, trauma-informed approaches in all of my clinical work and training efforts.

Outside of work, I’m a wife and mom to a young adult daughter, a tween daughter, and a lovable cat. I live life with a big smile, a love for boldness and laughter, and an appreciation for the beauty of connection. I'm currently learning Spanish and AfroLatino culture in Cartagena, Colombia, where I’m exploring opportunities to design wellness retreats that integrate nature, culture, and healing.

Dr. Ngonzi "Truth" Crushshon PhD

Staff Psychologist

My name is Dr. Ngonzi "Truth" Crushshon, PsyD, and I specialize in traumatic grief, intergenerational family trauma, and both child and adult trauma. I bring over 15 years of clinical mental health experience to my work, along with a background in education that has deeply shaped my approach to care.

I am a proud alumna of Fisk University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology. I went on to obtain my master’s in clinical psychology, and later completed my doctorate in Clinical Psychology at The Illinois School of Professional Psychology, Chicago Campus.

During my predoctoral training at Ada S. McKinley Behavioral Health, a community mental health clinic in Chicago, I focused on building protective factors for children and families experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges. My postdoctoral internship at Hope Haven Psychological Resources, LLC in Indianapolis allowed me to provide play therapy for children impacted by trauma and grief, as well as offer individual and family therapy. I also conducted psychological assessments for both children and adults, including psycho-educational, psycho-sexual, and bariatric evaluations.

At Northwestern Memorial Hospital in downtown Chicago, I served as an Emergency Room Counselor, supporting adults experiencing suicidal and homicidal ideations. I also assessed youth and foster children ages 3 to 21 who were in crisis.

Today, I serve as a Staff Psychologist (pre-licensed) at Perspectives, where I provide culturally competent, trauma-informed care to children, families, and adults navigating grief, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other complex challenges.

Originally from Chicago, Illinois, I have a heart for mentoring and empowering youth and families. Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy journaling, running 5Ks, reading The Artist’s Way, and cooking meals from scratch.

Ms. Tainise Brannon M.A., CMCH, APC

Staff Clinician

Hi! I’m Tainise Brannon, a trauma-focused mental health clinician and proud advocate for individuals navigating Autism, ADHD, and trauma-related challenges. I’m originally from the Bronx, New York City, and was raised in Salem, Alabama. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a passion for helping others heal, grow, and feel seen.

I earned my undergraduate degree from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University and completed my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Clark Atlanta University. I currently serve as an Associate-Level Professional Counselor and Registered Behavioral Therapist working with children, teens, and adults—many of whom are managing trauma, neurodevelopmental differences, or other mental health challenges.

In my work, I create a creative, non-traditional, and non-judgmental space where clients can safely explore their thoughts, feelings, and personal growth. I use a Person-Centered approach combined with evidence-based practices. I’ve been trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and I draw on these modalities to support individuals with concerns like anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, conduct disturbances, and mood or personality disorders.

I also have a strong background in supporting parents and caregivers—particularly those raising children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and other learning or neurodevelopmental differences. Helping families feel confident and equipped is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

When I’m not providing therapy or coaching, I’m embracing my creative side! I’m a proud fashionista, avid thrifter, and world traveler who loves spending quality time with my family and friends. I believe healing doesn’t have to be traditional—it can be expressive, bold, joyful, and deeply empowering.

Let’s grow together—you bring your story, and I’ll bring the space to explore it.