No child should ever have to experience separation from their family. But when it becomes necessary, Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries provides a safe haven filled with support and hope. Taylor Martin DeBerry (MS, LPC-A), a proud alumna of Connie Maxwell, is a testament to the transformative impact of this ministry.
DeBerry’s journey with Connie Maxwell began at age 13 when she spent a summer at the Pee Dee campus in Florence, South Carolina. Two years later, she returned and remained through high school, graduating in 2014. Through Connie Maxwell’s higher education program—offering both scholarships and ongoing support—she pursued a psychology degree at Clemson University. During school breaks, the Pee Dee campus always welcomed her home.
Reflecting on her time at Connie Maxwell, DeBerry fondly recalls the dedicated cottage parents who shaped her journey: “Ms. Marcy, Ms. Jenn, Ms. Shaniqua, Ms. Rachel, Mrs. Barbara, Ms. Martha, Ms. Wendy….” While no place is perfect, her memories are overwhelmingly positive. “Living in a house full of teenage girls came with challenges,” she admits, “but overall, it was a great experience. The staff were incredibly supportive and provided resources whenever we needed them.”
Connie Maxwell’s support extended beyond tuition and a place to stay—DeBerry was even offered assistance with transportation. But more than material resources, the ministry fostered a Christ-centered environment that deeply influenced her. Among her peers, one friendship stood out: a bond with her best friend, Idasia (Dasia), who became like a sister.
Barbara Moore, Director of Pee Dee Campus, celebrated with Taylor DeBerry at her Clemson graduation
After earning her bachelor’s degree in 2018, DeBerry began her career as an early intervention supervisor at Great Kids & Awesome Adults in Florence. While working there, she also started attending Capella University on the side to pursue her master’s degree. As part of her graduate studies, she began an internship at Stewart Behavioral Health with Martha Stewart. Once she graduated and obtained her counseling license, she transitioned into a full-time role as an LPC-A at Stewart Behavioral Health.
As she moved into counseling at Stewart, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 took on new meaning: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
DeBerry embraced this calling, working with young people—some who, like her, had lived at Connie Maxwell. “At first, it was very emotional,” she shares. “When I told my story, I’d start crying. But it was also incredibly rewarding. I bonded with these girls and offered them a different perspective on their journeys.”
In January 2024, DeBerry followed God’s calling to CARE House, a children’s advocacy center in Florence. As a therapist specializing in trauma, she collaborates with law enforcement and the Department of Social Services on some of the toughest cases. Despite the emotional weight of her work, she finds deep fulfillment in helping others heal. “It really just fell into my lap,” she says, reflecting on how her own therapy experience at Connie Maxwell inspired her to pursue counseling. “I’ve always been interested in trauma, having grown up around different struggles. When I interviewed at CARE House, I knew it was the right fit.”
Among her peers, one friendship stood out: a bond with her best friend, Idasia (Dasia), who became like a sister.
Beyond her career, DeBerry cherishes her family. She met her husband, Wesley, through connections with Great Kids & Awesome Adults. Together, they live in Florence, are active at NewSpring Church, and are raising their son and daughter. “Being a mom is my greatest blessing,” she says. “I love children—both at home and in my work.”
For young people hesitant to seek counseling, DeBerry offers this encouragement: “Counseling can be scary, especially when discussing things you’d rather keep buried. There’s a stigma around mental health, but getting help is never a weakness. It’s better to work through things now rather than let them build up. I always compare it to shaking a Coke bottle with Mentos inside—it’s going to explode if you don’t let it out.”
Barbara Moore, Pee Dee’s campus administrator, speaks highly of DeBerry: “Taylor was bright and determined from the moment she arrived. She had goals and was committed to achieving them. I’m so proud of her and her beautiful family. She will continue to accomplish great things.”
Reciprocating the gratitude, DeBerry acknowledges the profound role Connie Maxwell played in her life. “They gave me hope for a better future,” she says. “I think so highly of the Pee Dee campus, especially Mrs. Barbara and the staff. Many of them are no longer there, but their support meant everything to me.”
Taylor DeBerry’s story is a powerful testament to the mission of Connie Maxwell—to help children heal and cross the threshold into a brighter future. May her journey continue to inspire and bless others as she brings hope and healing to those in need.
