Our Leadership.


Dr. Jared Pingleton, our Executive Director, is both a licensed minister and a licensed psychologist. Dually trained in theology and psychology, Dr. Pingleton earned a B.S. in Psychology and Biblical Studies from Evangel University, an M.A. in Counseling from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and M.A. and Psy.D., degrees in Clinical Psychology from Rosemead School of Psychology-Biola University. He also studied Theology at the Assemblies of God, Talbot and Fuller Theological Seminaries and holds memberships in several professional organizations.



In clinical practice since 1977, Dr. Pingleton specializes in ministry to hurting persons and relationships from an integrated Biblical perspective. He has authored numerous articles published in professional journals on various Christian mental health and relationship topics and is an Adjunct Professor at Evangel University and at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. Jared is an accomplished speaker and is available to lead conferences, workshops, seminars and retreats. He has appeared on numerous local and national television programs and has co-hosted various radio programs. Drawing from a unique blend of wit, warmth, and wisdom, Jared's wealth of clinical experience and application of Biblical principles has enabled him to connect with audiences all across the country. Jared and his wife have four sons.


Josh Spurlock is a professional counselor with Tri-Lakes Relational Center and a licensed minister. Dually trained in theology and professional counseling, Josh's education includes an undergraduate degree in Biblical Languages with 3 years of greek study and 2 years of hebrew, a Masters degree in professional counseling, and advanced training in sex therapy from the Institute for Sexual Wholeness.



Josh also serves the students of Central Bible College, Springfield, MO as an Adjunct Professor in Church Ministries. He is a fervent lover of the Lord Jesus Christ and views the counseling ministry as a work of healing and discipleship empowered by the Holy Spirit. Josh is a sought after speaker and is available to lead marriage retreats, seminars, true love waits events, and college love-sex-relationship workshops. He and his wife Cassie have two biological sons and a variety of foster and/or adopted children ranging from 3 weeks to 17 years of age. Josh sees clients primarily in the Springfield, Missouri area.


Dr. Harry Pearson is an ordained minister, having approximately 30 years experience in pastoral ministry. He is also a certified counselor with over 25 years of experience, specializing in marriage and family therapy, behavioral analysis and addictions. Trained in business, education, theology and counseling/psychology, Dr. Pearson earned a B.A. in Business Administration from Evangel University, an M.A. in Biblical Studies from The Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, an M.A. in Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, an S.T.M. in Counseling from New York Theological Seminary, a Ph.D. in Counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary and a D.Min. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Eastern University. He also holds memberships in several professional organizations.

Dr. Pearson’s approach to counseling is based upon the integration of a personal relationship with God, a thorough knowledge of the Bible and a healthy self-awareness. Development as a person is dependent upon the blending of theology and psychology. Dr. Pearson has conducted marriage conferences, hosted radio programs, and done chaplaincy work in prison, hospital and retirement center settings. He has served as adjunct faculty for several colleges, universities and seminaries. Dr. Pearson and his wife have been married since 1982 and have two sons and one daughter.

“I welcome the opportunity to meet you and work together toward relational health and wholeness.” ~ Dr. Harry Pearson


Joani Whitley joins the TriLakes Relational Center as a provisionally licensed counselor (PLPC) with several years of experience working with individuals and families in crisis. After receiving her B.S. from Evangel University in Psychology and Biblical studies, she worked with youth in residential care and then transitioned to case management support for adults. Encouraged that her calling was working with families, Joani decided to further her education by receiving her M.A. in Counseling from Saint Louis University. Her experience lead her to work with teens in the judicial system, which eased her into the transition of working at Shelterwood, a residential facility for teens, as a staff counselor for families and adolescents in crisis.

Joani views the counseling process as a way for families and individuals to experience the power of the Lord to bring restoration.


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