About COCA
The mission of the Central Ohio Counseling Association (COCA), a chapter of the Ohio Counseling Association (OCA), is to serve and support licensed professional counselors, counselor educators, supervisors, and graduate students in the Central Ohio region. We aim to facilitate connections between counselors in our local communities through education, legislative advocacy, social justice promotion, outreach, and networking. We value the diversity of our profession at all levels, and provide our members opportunities for professional identity enhancement and leadership development. Our goal is to provide the necessary resources for counseling professionals to effectively carry out the responsibility of our work, enriching our professional lives, as well as the lives of those we serve.
Ready to become part of the COCA community?
Meet Your Team
COCA is led by a dedicated group of volunteer counselors who give their time, experience, and leadership to support the counseling profession throughout Central Ohio.
Together, they create opportunities for connection, professional growth, advocacy, and community while helping ensure COCA remains a welcoming resource for counselors at every stage of their careers.
Susanne Perry, LPC
President
Susanne is a Grief and Purpose counselor. Her practice specializes in working with individuals over 50 who face major life transitions like the loss of loved ones, chronic health conditions, and finding renewed purpose and meaning in life. Originally from Austria, Susanne has lived and worked internationally. Susanne holds a doctorate in Business Administration and a master’s degree in Clinical Counseling, blending academic insight with real-world experience.
Kaela Vance, LPCC-S
Past President
Kaela is a holistic therapist specializing in grief & trauma through a root-cause lens. She is trained in EMDR & ERP, & Health Restoration. She has worked in pediatric trauma at Nationwide Children’s Hospital & gained experience in inpatient care at Columbus Springs. She has been in private practice for over 4 years!
Michael Bock, LPCC
President Elect
Michael works with individuals & couples, specializing in trauma, relationships, & EMDR. He brings experience from both community mental health & private practice, offering a thoughtful & grounded approach to care. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, photography, backpacking, & spending time outdoors.
Ken Smith, LPCC-S
Treasurer & Social Chair
Ken focuses on autism, neurodiversity, & existential concerns. He is the founder of CAASS & has contributed to research & publications on autism & relationships. Known for his humor & authenticity, Ken creates a welcoming space for clients navigating complex challenges & is dedicated to supporting underserved populations across Ohio.
Jonathan Miller, LPCC-S
Communications Chair
Jonathan has extensive experience in trauma-focused care. He earned his master’s degree from Temple University & is trained in EMDR & Dialectical Behavior Therapy. He has presented on numerous topics including DBT, dissociation, ethics in AI, & more & remains actively engaged in professional organizations supporting trauma-informed practice.
Jeffrey Pharion, LPCC-S
Coffee & Consultation Chair
Jeffrey is a counselor & former educator with over two decades of experience teaching high school & college English. He brings a strong foundation in communication, motivation, & personal development to his clinical work. Jeffrey is also a longtime football coach, emphasizing discipline & positive motivation, & is passionate about helping individuals build confidence & achieve meaningful growth.
Sandy Deas, LPCC-S
Government Relations Chair
Sandy has over 20 years of experience in counseling across community agencies, higher education, employee assistance programs, & private practice. She is Gottman trained, as well as work in trauma, & recovery. She focuses on helping individuals & couples better understand communication patterns, navigate deeper sources of conflict, & build meaningful, lasting connections.
Erin Parsons, Ph.D., LPCC-S
Ethics Chair
With over 20 years of experience, Erin works with individuals, couples, and high-achieving professionals. A former Certified National MDFT Trainer specializing in family systems, she integrates evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches to support meaningful growth. Erin is the founder of Wellness Counselors and is committed to advancing the counseling profession through leadership and ethical practice.
Andrew Woody, LPCC
Board Member
Andrew is a co-founder of Redefine Better LLC, & experienced consultant with over 20 years in leadership, teaching, & program development. He specializes in supporting individuals through grief, anxiety, family transitions, & personal growth. He brings a relational, strengths-based approach to both his clinical & professional work.
Madison Wilmoth
Secretary
Madison is a new professional in the counseling field who works with children, teens, and adults. She especially values working with children and adolescents as they navigate growth and development. Madison strives to create a safe space where clients can be their authentic selves, bringing a warm, patient, and encouraging presence.
Ready to become part of the COCA community?