Our Founders

Early on in our marriage we began to realize that while we loved and cared for each other very deeply, there were some destructive habits and cycles that were hindering our growth personally, as a family, and even in our business.

For years we weren’t sure where to turn or how to fix the broken parts of our lives. We have been in that hopeless, confused, and unsure place. We each made the choice not to stay there.

We began the journey of transformation and have never looked back. We did the necessary work of rebuilding our marriage from the damage done by anger, control, addiction, and even betrayal. We dove deeper into understanding what caused these behaviors and sought out professional training to help ourselves and others find a way out.

With hard work, transformative tools, and professional guidance we began reaching our goals and discovering even bigger dreams! Our life has never been better and we continue to use the practices and insights we have learned along the way to thrive in all areas of our lives.

It is a privilege that we get to use our experience, training, and talents to help others find what they have been desperately searching for: safe and supportive relationships which empowers them to not just survive, but thrive. Our growing team represents a community of dedicated professionals who passionately pursue a greater mastery of the very best tools and techniques to serve our clients faithfully.

“Several reasons I love recommending Joanna and Matthew to betrayed partners and those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. In every interaction with them, I experience their professional expertise and empathetic approach, thus know their clients will be heard, seen, and helped. As educational presenters in the A Door of Hope Peer Facilitator Training community and in other professional settings like the SILS Conferences, they continually exceed my expectations by bringing that same approach and engaging with their audience.”

— Donna Meredith Dixon: C-SASI Board Member and creator of A Door of Hope: Peer Facilitator Training

JOANNA RAABSMITH

LMFT, CCPS, CPTT, MDiv

Joanna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Professional Coach, serving clients nationwide via telehealth. She holds a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Masters of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. Trained in Restoration Therapy (Level 2), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and EMDR, she specializes in trauma, betrayal trauma, addiction recovery, and relationship issues. She is also a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS) through APSATS and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT) through IITAP.

Joanna is passionate about helping couples restore love and trust while guiding individuals toward personal growth and healing. Her approach is client-centered and integrative, focusing on each person’s unique story. Alongside her husband, Matthew, she co-leads The Raabsmith Team, co-authored Building True Intimacy (2023), and co-developed The Intimacy Pyramid™, a framework for building a thriving connection in relationships. They also founded Renewing Us™, one of the first couples group programs of its kind.

She lives in Tennessee with Matthew and their three children, where she enjoys going on shared adventures, reading by the fireplace, and a weekly game of pickleball.

MATTHEW RAABSMITH

CPC, Mdiv, Certified Life & Relationship Coach

Matthew Raabsmith is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) through the ICF and a Restoration Coach, serving clients nationwide via telehealth. With over 15 years of experience as a pastoral leader and counselor, he has coached individuals, couples, and teams, specializing in addiction recovery, betrayal trauma, relationship health, leadership development, and professional growth. He holds a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary and is a Certified Partner Coach (CPC) through APSATS.

Matthew’s coaching method focuses on identifying a client’s authentic self, leveraging strengths for growth and transformation. He is passionate about encouraging change by helping clients discover the internal and external resources available to them. Known for his infectious energy and deep empathy, he creates a dynamic, supportive space for personal and relational growth.

Alongside his wife, Joanna, Matthew co-leads The Raabsmith Team, co-authored Building True Intimacy (2023), and co-developed The Intimacy Pyramid™, a framework for building a thriving connection in relationships. They also founded Renewing Us™, one of the first couples group programs of its kind.

He lives in Tennessee, with Joanna and their three children. He enjoys new adventures with his amazing wife, silliness with his cute kids, and a warm homemade espresso.

MELISSA WHALEY

Professional Life and Relationship Coach

Melissa is a dedicated life and relationship coach with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate their personal and relational journeys. With a degree in Youth Ministry, she has spent the past 20 years serving in various ministries, including children’s, youth, and women’s ministries. Her training as an APSAT Trainee, ACC candidate, and Restoration Coach has equipped her with the skills to support her clients effectively and compassionately.

Alongside her husband RJ, Melissa leads Relate Strong marriage groups at their local church, working together to strengthen relationships within their community. Her mission is to empower and encourage women to confidently step into the roles God has called them to.

Melissa is also a homeschool mom to six kids, a lifelong learner, and loves being outdoors. Teaching is a significant part of her approach. She loves sharing good resources with her clients to help them grow and understand the challenges they are facing.

Navigating the tumultuous waters of betrayal can be daunting and isolating, but Melissa’s goal is to be an ally on the journey to healing. Together with her clients, Melissa uncovers their goals, deepens their connection to their core values, and discovers their passions. She customizes a path to healing and wholeness that is uniquely theirs.

RJ WHALEY

M Ed, Professional Life and Relationship Coach

RJ is a professional life and relationship coach passionate about helping men discover their true selves. With a master’s degree in education and seminary training, he brings a rich educational background to his coaching practice. He is an ACC candidate, a trained Restoration Coach, and an APSAT Trainee, enabling him to offer a trauma-informed, partner-sensitive approach to his work with both betrayers and partners, whether individually or as a couple.

With 15 years of experience in the field of education, RJ transitioned into coaching to further support personal growth and recovery. He leads men’s recovery groups and Relate Strong groups at his local church. A devoted father of six and a lifelong learner, RJ brings both personal and professional insights to his coaching practice.

RJ works with men to delve deep into the core of their struggles, seeking to be a supportive ally on their journey of recovery and healing. His approach is grounded in spiritual formation and self-reflection, helping men uncover their goals, understand their challenges, and find a path to wholeness.

Connect With Us

Are you ready to embark on a journey of personal, relational, or professional transformation. Connect with us today and someone from our team will reach out with you personally.