Meet The Owners
Angelique Howington Works, LPC-MHSP
Angelique is a licensed professional counselor with a master’s degree in clinical counseling and a background in theater and psychology. She is also the owner of Works Counseling Center, bringing over 7 years of specialized experience in treating OCD, anxiety, and related disorders. Known for her dedication to fostering compassionate and welcoming environments, Angelique believes every person deserves a therapeutic home where they feel seen, safe, and supported. She leads Connect Counseling Center with a mission to provide high-quality mental health care across the Mount Juliet, Clarksville, and Cookeville communities. As a Nashville native, Angelique is committed to nurturing her community and empowering therapists to grow personally and professionally. Outside of work, Angelique is a foodie who’s always up for trying new spots—from cozy, hidden gems to high-end steakhouses and even dining in the dark. She’s passionate about live theater, loves to travel, and cherishes time with family. Known for her sense of humor, Angelique enjoys sharing a laugh and a good joke.
Alex Varkonda
As a co-owner of Connect Counseling Center, Alex brings extensive expertise in finance, business development, and strategic growth. With a passion for expanding access to mental health resources, he plays a key role in the center’s operational growth and financial strategy, ensuring sustainability and innovation.
Alex’s deep commitment to leadership development fuels his vision of building a thriving environment where clinicians and clients can flourish. Guided by values of trust, transparency, and forward-thinking strategy, he works alongside Angelique to position Connect Counseling Center as a trusted resource for mental health in Tennessee.
A proud husband and father of three, Alex draws inspiration from his family to create spaces that foster balance and well-being for individuals and families alike. He is dedicated to empowering others—both within the organization and the community to grow as leaders and achieve lasting impact.
Together, Alex and Angelique are committed to building a team of compassionate professionals, expanding the reach of Connect Counseling Center, and ensuring that every client receives the support and connection they deserve.
With an extensive background in business development and leadership as well as a keen understanding of financial strategy, Alex is a visionary partner to Angelique, guiding Connect Counseling Center’s operational growth and expansion. Alex has a deep commitment to innovative and sustainable practices, focusing on building a therapeutic environment where clinicians and clients alike can thrive. His approach emphasizes trust, transparency, and forward-thinking strategy to ensure Connect Counseling Center remains a reliable, compassionate resource for mental health in Tennessee. Alex is also a father, and his dedication to his family inspires his work within the counseling field, aiming to create spaces that help individuals and families find balance and well-being.
Together, Angelique and Alex are dedicated to expanding access to mental health resources and ensuring that Connect Counseling Center continues to be a place where people can find real support, connection, and understanding. Whether you’re seeking individual counseling, family therapy, or specialized group sessions, Angelique and Alex have built a team of compassionate professionals ready to support you on your journey.