Board of Directors

Nicole Carson, LMFT
Executive Director
Founder
President

I’m Nicole, Founder, President, & CEO of High Hopes Counseling!

I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, breaking the cycle of generational trauma, and developing accessible, affordable mental and behavioral healthcare to support individuals and families who face daily struggles due to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).

Over the last decade, I’ve worked as a school-based mental health counselor, educator, and administrator in the public, non-public, and private sectors. For the last five years, I’ve been the clinical director and CEO of Barefoot Therapist Counseling Services, a women-owned, group-private practice located in Orange County, California.

These experiences encouraged me to create a safe, therapeutic environment where pre-licensed therapists provide strength-based and trauma-informed mental and behavioral health services. It’s open to all individuals and their families, regardless of their ability to pay.

I relocated to California from suburban Detroit in my teenage years. I’ve lived in Orange County for the last 30 years, where I raised three children, owned various businesses, and earned multiple college degrees.

In my spare time, I enjoy yoga, hiking, gardening, and traveling to spend time with my children.

Kris Johnson
MS, APCC

I’m Kris, an EMDRIA, EMDR-trained and Restorative Practice Hearth Science clinician. I have a Trauma Research Foundation’s Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies.

Working through a trauma-informed lens, I treat first responders, military, PTSD individuals, couples, and families. I also specialize in chronic illness and pain management.

Jennifer Pillon, Realtor
Secretary

For more than 20 years, I’ve supported the Fullerton community, especially in the public school system. In my journey, I’ve worked as a parent volunteer, classroom helper, and school site council member. While I’ve held various positions in the local PTA, I currently hold the title of PTA president at Fullerton High School. 

At High Hopes Counseling Foundation, I oversee the fundraising committee. I’m proud to be a part of an organization that works to bring mental health services to all the people who need them.

I’m a native Southern Californian and mother to four children. I enjoy spending time with my husband, Robert, of 22 years. If I’m not supporting my local restaurants, you can most likely find me volunteering for a good cause in the community!

Veronica Marquez
Website Developer and Graphic Designer

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, I stay at the forefront, blending technical expertise with artistic flair to bring ideas to life on and off the web. I value innovation and creativity. I push boundaries and deliver exceptional results. My ability to adapt to different industries and understand the unique needs of each client has earned me multiple awards.

I enjoy engaging with nonprofits, using my skills to contribute to meaningful causes and organizations like High Hopes Counseling. As a proud board member, I believe that mental health is a basic human right and should be accessible to all individuals.

Wendy Reid

My long-standing commitment to the Fullerton community reflects my genuine passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Over the years, I’ve been actively involved in various PTA roles at different schools, but most notably with the Fullerton Council PTA. I advocate for children and support those who are less fortunate. I also volunteer with Pathways of Hope, both at their main HUB and at the Fullerton College food pantry, working to address community needs such as hunger and homelessness.

I’ve lived in Fullerton for many years and have always felt deeply connected to the community. With my husband, Mike, and our two sons, we’ve built a family grounded in compassion and service.

I joined the High Hopes board because of my desire to make a positive impact. I’m excited to contribute to the organization’s mission, and I hope my experience and passion will help inspire others and continue to uplift our community.