Matthew Royster received his Master of Arts degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Northern Iowa. He was licensed by the State of Iowa in Mental Health Counseling in 2006.  Matthew received his Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Campbell University and earned an Honorary Associate’s Degree from St. Anne’s of Oxford University, England.

Matthew’s primary focus of treatment is with children.  He is the primary Clinician at Midwest Christian Services.  Matthew has over 15 years of experience working with adults and children in the following areas:  Sexual Deviancy, Personality Disorders, Mood Disorders, Psychopathy, Pervasive Cognitive Distortions, and Dysfunctional Behavioral Syndromes.  Matthew also incorporates animal-assisted therapy as a treatment intervention with his dog Rosey.

Valorie Royster received her Master of Arts degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City.  She furthered her education with Capella University and completed courses for counseling. Valorie was licensed in Mental Health Counseling by the State of Iowa in 2009.

She has a history of counseling children, adolescents and adults for the last 15 years and has experience helping individuals address matters related but not limited to: Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Sexuality, Behavioral Disorders, and issues involving Foster Care/Adoption.

Cheryl Ellis received her Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University in December of 2020.  She obtained her licensure from the State of Iowa as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in 2023.  Cheryl’s undergraduate degree was earned at Sterling College, in Sterling, Kansas with a major in Christian Education and a minor in Theatre Arts – both of which she uses in her practice often.

Cheryl has worked with youth and families in various capacities since 2000.  She was actively involved in youth ministry while her husband served as youth pastor for 10 years; was a licensed foster parent for 20 years taking placement of mostly teenaged girls; taught foster/adoptive pre-service training for almost 20 years; and worked as a peer liaison and counselor for both IFAPA (Iowa Foster and Adoptive Association) and the WIC program.  Her passion is to help families grow together and while providing therapeutic support for individuals, couples, and families.  Ms. Ellis, along with her husband, David, are parents to 7 daughters and are quickly adding sons-in-law to the family as the girls find them.

Steve received his master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in Minneapolis Minnesota. Steve received his bachelor’s degree in human services from Buena Vista University and earned an Associate’s Science degree in Substance Abuse Counseling from Iowa Lakes Community College. Steve has 13 years treating adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse disorders. Steve currently treats children, adolescents and adults struggling with mental health disorders, ranging from anxiety, depression, conduct disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorders. Steve has completed his EMDR certification and is able to provide EMDR therapy to his clients.