Healthy Connections is pleased to welcome Cynthia McLellan, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to the Mena clinic as a new therapist with Evolve Behavioral Health Services. With extensive experience in social work and behavioral health, McLellan brings a strong foundation of clinical expertise, compassion, and community-centered care to patients across Polk County and surrounding areas.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Cynthia is specially trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions using evidence-based therapeutic approaches. LCSWs work with individuals to address emotional, behavioral, and life challenges, helping patients develop coping strategies, build resilience, and improve overall well-being. Therapy with a Licensed Clinical Social Worker is confidential, collaborative, and focused on practical, real-life support—not judgment.
Cynthia provides therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief, using proven clinical approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and mindfulness-based strategies for anger management. Her work emphasizes creating a safe, respectful environment where patients feel heard, supported, and empowered.
“I believe in the dignity and worth of every person, and I am passionate about providing evidence-based care to underserved populations,” McLellan said.
A Career Rooted in Service and Experience
Cynthia began her career in social work as a case manager and later served for more than a decade as Social Services Director at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab. She returned to graduate school in 2018 while working in hospice care, gaining meaningful experience supporting individuals and families during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Her professional background also includes senior behavioral health inpatient treatment, school-based services, and community mental health—providing her with a broad, well-rounded understanding of how mental health care intersects with every stage of life.
She holds a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), a Master of Social Work (MSW), and is licensed by the state as a Clinical Social Worker.
Originally from Vineland, New Jersey, Cynthia values family, community, and service. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, crafting, and listening to music. She also loves to travel, often taking short trips to experience different parts of the region. She has been involved in supporting veterans and hospice-related causes and considers being a wife, mom, and nana to be a great blessing.
About Evolve Behavioral Health Services
Evolve Behavioral Health Services is part of Healthy Connections’ comprehensive approach to whole-person care, offering accessible, confidential, and judgment-free mental health services for individuals and families. Evolve focuses on evidence-based therapy, strong provider-patient relationships, and removing barriers that often prevent people from seeking help.
For many people, the stigma surrounding therapy can be a significant obstacle. At Healthy Connections, behavioral health care is treated like any other essential health service—private, respectful, and focused on helping people feel better and function better in their daily lives. Patients do not need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Seeking support is a proactive step toward better health.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join Evolve Behavioral Health and Healthy Connections and to serve patients in the Mena community,” McLellan said.
Making Behavioral Health Care Accessible
Evolve Behavioral Health Services accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most major health insurance plans and offers a sliding fee scale for qualifying patients without insurance. This commitment ensures that cost is not a barrier to receiving high-quality behavioral health care.
“Cynthia’s experience and commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care make her a tremendous addition to our Mena team,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections. “She understands the importance of meeting patients with respect and dignity, and her background serving underserved communities aligns perfectly with our mission.”
With Cynthia McLellan joining the team, Evolve Behavioral Health Services continues to strengthen access to trusted mental health care in Polk County—making it easier for individuals and families to get the support they need, close to home.
Appointments with Cynthia McLellan, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, or any Evolve Behavioral Health provider can be scheduled by calling 800-409-6250. To learn more about Evolve Behavioral Health Services, visit www.evolvebhs.com.
