Therapists
Taylor Samela
LCSW Lead Clinician
Taylor Samela is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Reiki Practitioner.
Are you looking for an open-minded, supportive, and compassionate therapist? I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience building strong therapeutic relationships with individuals and supporting them in reaching their goals.
I am a strength-based and client focused therapist; I strive to empower and provide hope in session. I utilize a variety of techniques and I am trained in various models of evidence based practices, in addition to being a Certified Reiki Practitioner.
I support individuals with utilizing effective coping skills to manage anxiety, depression, stress and more. I have extensive experience providing therapeutic treatment to adolescence, adults, couples & families in a variety of settings. I treat mental health, substance use, co-occurring disorders, behavioral issues, relational issues, poor self-esteem, difficulty with emotion regulation, anger management, issues related to transitions, and stress management.
​
Are you ready to heal? Contact me for further information on how we can work collaboratively to support you in reaching your goals!
David Eppner
LCSW, LPC , LADC
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in CT. I am open to working with adults and adolescents.
​
I have over 12 years’ experience working with adults and adolescents, within a variety of settings, including tele-health, outpatient clinics, and in-home, with my focus being on treating co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adoption and infertility, and substance and alcohol use disorders. I am clinically trained in CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, RBT, MST, MI and MET. My approach is strength based, client focused, and humanistic. I enjoy thinking of creative approaches and utilizing a variety of different skills to help my clients. My goal is to assist the client, you, in developing healthy coping skills, while building a strong therapeutic relationship. I have worked with people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, male, female, non-binary, various sexual orientations, younger and older, and I have always taken the approach that each person is unique; their issues are real, and I want to not only help them, but truly hear them and their stories.
I am a graduate of Tulane University (BS Psychology) Argosy University (MA, Forensic Psychology) and Louisiana State University (Master of Social Work), as well as completing post graduate courses in Assessment and Testing and Evaluation with Southern Connecticut State University.
I live with my wife, two Siberian cats in the greater Hartford area, and I enjoy cooking (I’ve had 5 recipes published), traveling, museums, the theater, reading, skiing, golfing, and daily walks during the winter, and 25-30 mile bike rides during the summer, and avid sports fan (Yankees, Rangers, Knicks, Giants, Pats, and Saints).
​
​
Michael Dutko
LPC, LADC
Lead Clinician
Michael Dutko is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
I have over 19 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of Substance Abuse Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Behavoiral difficulties and emotional regulation. I am trained in a variety of different models including CBT/EMDR/DBT /CPT Person Centered Approaches, Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Tf-CBT.
I work with clients of all ages, including school aged children and clients that are on parole and probation as well as professional adults and military service members. I enjoy thinking "outside of the box", and implement that in my sessions.
Rhonda Watson Dejesus
LADC, MS, ICAADC
Rhonda is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
People come to therapy for a variety of issues, including struggles with transitions, substance abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, marriage conflict and challenges at work or school. The first step is to work together to establish what your goals are for therapy. My own life experiences have provided me with a greater ability and understanding of demonstrating unconditional, positive regard passionately.
Working together treating, educating and encouraging you to break free from the chains of addiction and prosper into a healthy fulfilling life. Over the past 13 years, I’ve helped people become more successful in all areas of life. I will assist you in overcoming your barriers, establish good life habits, as well as actualizing your full potential. I will customize your treatment plan to meet your recovery goals. I use eclectic therapy methods, including CBT, Solution Focused and Narrative therapy to address the triggers and cravings. I continue daily to empower hope.
I am Licensed in Connecticut with 10 years of experience in the mental health & substance abuse field specializing in working with individuals suffering with addiction, depression, anxiety, chronic mental health disorders and legal issues. I am accepting new clients to be seen in the Waterbury office with evening & afternoon appointments.
Lauren DePietro
LADC
I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to live their best life. I apply my experience and knowledge to help those with a desire to grow, adjust, change, and evolve into their best self.
I have a Master’s degree in Human Services Counseling and am a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with both adolescents and adults.
​
I have significant experience working with those that suffer with substance abuse and addiction. I do not believe this disease is hopeless. I am dedicated to working with those who desire change and want to live a better life. Working together, I will help empower you to make better choices and recognize your potential. In addition, if you have legal issues associated with substance use, I will work collaboratively with probation and parole officers and DCF in the event you are recommended or mandated for treatment.
​
I also work with substance abusers that are dually diagnosed, meaning individuals that are substance abusers and also have mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
I can also work with those with other types of addictions, including gambling and compulsive spending.
I truly enjoy my work, and will work with you in a safe, confidential and supportive, encouraging environment. Together we can help you create change and establish achievable goals towards recovery and wellness.
Waleska Castillo
LPC, LMT Bilingual Spanish
Waleska is a bilingual
( Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters in Human Services. She is also a ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) therapist.
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, adult individuals, families & couples. I am passionate about helping individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, substance use, autism and schizophrenia as well as individuals that are experiencing grief & loss and trauma.
I have taken time to learn ways to help families who are struggling with a variety of difficulties and hardships and taken a special interest in families who need assistance developing parenting skills or who have children with challenging behaviors.
One of my goals is to always adapt and utilize different treatment methods that correspond to the client’s particular needs. I strive to establish a safe, supportive and respectful environment in which people can grow and change.
I have worked in the mental health field for several years and love having the opportunity to lend a helping hand, be available to listen, and to have an open heart to understand each person’s uniqueness regardless of age, gender or race. I am passionate about empowerment; this is done by helping others to become stronger and more confident, especially when it involves controlling and claiming their lives and rights.
​Kristen Birmingham
MS, MFT, LADC
Kristen is a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen has over 23 years experience working with adolescence and adults who are struggling with or have been affected by addiction issues. She believes in building a strong therapeutic relationship with her clients and is there to support the addict and the family system that addiction impacts. Her top priority is the well-being of her clients, and she provides the highest quality of therapeutic care. Her experience working in outpatient mental health and addiction treatment settings includes therapeutic approaches to assist clients in healing and making positive changes in their lives. Every client is different, and there is no single therapy to help everyone, therefore she takes the time to listen to your story and provide client-centered, motivation focused therapy in order to help her clients heal and move forward in their lives. Her clients will be met with empathy and compassion throughout the therapy process. Her goal is for her clients to complete the therapeutic process with a sense of relief from their struggles and learn new skills for living a resilient, healthy and satisfying life. This is your life and your treatment.
Specialties
Alcoholism
Drug Addiction
Substance Abuse
Issues
Addiction
Alcohol Abuse
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Divorce
Drug Abuse
Dual Diagnosis
Family Conflict
Grief
Life Transitions
Parenting
Self Esteem
Stress
Substance Abuse
Women's Issues
Mental Health
Darian Coleman
LPC
I believe that every human being has the emotional need to be understood and validated. When we feel our emotional needs to be unfulfilled, we are often unable to be our genuine selves making us vulnerable to life stressors, impacting our relationships, and ultimately, preventing us from living a meaningful life.
I offer my clients a judgement-free environment to resolve their unmet needs and genuinely strive towards their personal goals, whether those personal goals are to improve relationships, managing mental health symptoms, or making peace with traumatic memories of the past. “Things do not change; we change.” I believe in my client’s capacity to make transformative changes that can lead to progressive changes in their lives. I offer my clients a supportive environment where personal changes can be nurtured/encouraged and fostered into their “Ability to Act and Take Health Risk".
​
I’m originally from Brooklyn, NY. I have over 15 years of working in many capacities with clients from the ages of 8 to 84 and I’ve worked with a diverse clientele. Clients who struggle with attentional issues, difficulties in developing and maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships, anger management, depression, anxiety, ptsd, schizoaffective, Asperger/autism spectrum disorder, alcohol/substance abuse, narcissism, borderline, anti-social behaviors, etc. I’ve had the opportunity of working with couples struggling with infidelity, communication, loss and grief, parenting, domestic violence, financial stress, career and school challenges, acculturation, etc.
​
My approach is holistic and eclectic in that I draw from a wide range of approaches. Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, REBT, SFBT, Reality Therapy, with additional integration of Mindfulness and MI. I believe in looking through the world from my client’s “viewpoint”, as a means of using the best therapeutic approach.
To just take the first step of considering getting involved in therapy is a powerful thing and I hope you recognize that. Whether you take the next step with me or someone else does not matter, just take it.
Gina Rose LCSW
I am skilled in treating youth (ages 8-18), adults of all ages, professionals in health care/ emergency services, couples requiring support, and treating multiple conditions that occur together. I am well educated as a Substance Use Counselor prepared to work with you against addiction to Alcohol, Opiates, and other substances. I am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy which is designed for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) particularly Chronic PTSD. I am certified in Motivational Interviewing/Motivational Enhancement Therapy which is very helpful with trauma reaction behaviors like substance use and difficulty with personality or relationship development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy – Creating Opportunities for Personal Empowerment (COPE/ COPE2 Thrive Children and Adolescents) which is helpful for types of Anxiety, types of Depression and types of Trauma Stressor reactions. I have been working throughout CT, VA, and WA for 10 years in a variety of settings. I come from a Military Family and would be honored to support Veterans and their loved ones. I am very knowledgeable in the use of Medication Assisted Treatments like Suboxone, Methadone, Vivitrol/Naltrexone, Ketamine and Medical Marijuana.
I take a holistic approach and believe laughter can be medicinal. My intention is get to know you and your plans for change, derive goals you would like to achieve and develop a plan to reach them. I enjoy helping you reach a higher level of functioning and happiness with in yourself as quickly as possible with sustainable interventions. I will keep us on a course of developing skills and internal resilience so you can own your recovery. I am accepting appointments in the Avon office, and through telehealth both are on a limited schedule which will increase in the coming months.
Vivian Mercado
LMFT Bilingual Spanish
Vivian Mercado Is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She uses an integrative therapeutic approach to help clients achieve their goals. She is bilingual, fluent in English and Spanish.
I believe in providing a safe, supportive, and positive space to help clients reach their full potential.
I have over 12 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I provide individual, couples and family therapy for people suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, grief, parenting support, couples in conflict looking to improve the relationship.
Dorian Sacaza
LPC Bilingual Spanish
Dorian Sacaza is a bilingual (Spanish,English) Licensed Professional Counselor.
​
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-
esteem, or managing your children? Does it seem like things are sometimes out of
control, or you don’t find joy in everyday life? Do you find yourself stuck in the same
relationship patterns?
I have over 15 years of experience providing counseling services to children
adolescents and families dealing with trauma, relationship issues, depressive thoughts, anxiety and everyday life struggles. I teach my clients effective coping skills to manage depression and anxiety symptoms. I also have experience teaching parenting skills and educational advocacy.
I have great knowledge of resources in the Greater Waterbury and surrounding areas to tailor the best plan for each client.
My approach to therapy is solution focused by creating a partnership in a safe
supportive non -judgmental environment.
I want you to know, you are not alone in your journey. I will help you every step of the way.
Jen Gonzalez-Smith
LMSW
I have experience working with children as young as 5 (including school settings) and families, adolescents, and adults. I have worked extensively with families involved in the DCF system. I’ve worked with individuals with special needs and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders and PTSD, both in the home across the State of Connecticut, and within a group home setting, and I hold a certification in TF-CBT. I enjoy being creative and assisting my clients in building coping skills, and I feel very luck to work with each client that I meet. I also enjoy facilitating groups and am a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor.
I also have experience working with clients who have been diagnosed with substance use disorder and survivors of sexual assault, first responders and military. I am a certified victim advocate, and a veteran and I believe that taking care of people who have made this commitment is of upmost importance.
I enjoy giving my clients the space they need to work on the most important issues to them, and thoroughly believe in client-centered, strengths-based treatment. I also believe in allowing my clients the space for them to succeed and accomplish their goals. After all, the client is the expert on their life. Deciding to come to therapy is a big step for some people, and I recognize that. Come see me when you’re ready.
​
Jennifer welcomes working with out of pocket clients on a sliding scale.
_edited.jpg)
Carol Crowley LPC
All clients deserve to be heard and their feelings validated. Empathy, compassion, and a holistic approach is what I offer to every client. Together, we will work on creating goals to help you move forward in your life.
I will teach you mindfulness techniques that will serve you in your daily life. I have experience working with clients from all age groups, genders, cultures, ethnicities, religions, and sexual orientation. I have experience assisting clients with PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationship issues, SUDs, grief, anger issues, bi-polar, eating disorders, autism, OCD, and more.
No matter what issue or concern you are experiencing, your care will be individualized to help you. You will be treated with respect in a non-judgmental environment, using all my skills, knowledge, education, life experience, training, sincerity, and care to help you develop the coping skills to achieve your goals, decrease your symptoms, and improve your life. You can do this!
Shoshana Klayman
LCSW
I have a deep-rooted commitment to helping individuals from diverse backgrounds, backed by professional expertise in a variety of settings. But I also believe that clients are the experts on their own lives.
I have worked with clients of all ages, from as young as three to late adulthood, in outpatient therapy settings; methadone clinics; intensive outpatient programs; inpatient psychiatric units, and in-home crisis intervention. One thing remains constant: the focus of therapy should be based on what YOU wish to work on.
Through cognitive behavioral techniques and grounding methods, I can guide you to address your struggles with Major Depression, Suicidality, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Personality Disorders and Addiction/Substance Use Disorders. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling, depending on the need.
My main therapeutic goal is to create a safe environment, free of judgment and pressure. Once we find ourselves in a comfortable space, the healing process may begin. I would be honored to learn more about your journey.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, and cooking.
Karen Fahey
LCSW
By seeking help, you are demonstrating that you have courage, strength and hope, even if you're not feeling that way now. In a safe and supportive environment, my approach is warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental and infused with a sense of humor.
I strive to help people live through their pain and get to a place where they can love themselves and be freer to absorb love from others.I use a holistic approach, (heart, mind, body and spirit), with a goal towards integration, transformation, healing and change. I will help you to understand patterns of thinking and behavior by cultivating awareness and acceptance.
During my twenty five plus years of experience, I have worked with a diverse population of all ages. I have worked extensively in a multitude of clinical environments, including private practice, outpatient clinics, general and state hospital inpatient psychiatric units, emergency departments, community mental health centers and a cancer center.
Work with adults ages 18 to elderly.
Issues:
Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Career, Schizophrenia, Cancer, Depression, Divorce, Emotional Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Infidelity, Life Transitions, Relational Issues, Self-Esteem, Spirituality, Substance Misuse, Trauma
Treatment modalities:
Attachment based, Body centered Gestalt, CBT, DBT, Emotionally Focused, Humanistic, Interpersonal, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths based and Trauma-focused.
Julia Savio
LMFT
Welcome! This may be your first time looking into treatment, or you may have experienced therapy before. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, non judgmental environment, to discover solutions to any challenges you may be facing in order to make life more fulfilling. My focus will be to help you to foster healthy relationships and communication within yourself, in your personal life, or with your family. Whether you are looking for coping skills to manage your life challenges, a need to identify negative behavior patterns within yourself or a relationship, learn ways to recover from addiction, or need a safe place and someone to talk to, I will work directly with you to achieve any goal.
Specialty areas of my practice are addiction, co-occurring disorders, working with family members who experience the affects of addiction, codependency, marital problems, individuals, family, and couples therapy. I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 2 years. During that time, I have provided in- home and clinic-based therapy, and have experience providing individual, family, group therapy as well as intensive outpatient services. I have utilized treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Couples Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and am trained as a Circle of Security Facilitator. In all experiences, I hone in on each individual session to ensure you feel empowered in treatment.
I offer a therapeutic approach where we collaboratively achieve your goals taking into account the expertise you bring. Through our work together we can embark on a journey towards healing and change.
Mordy Lyss
LMFT
I have an eclectic approach towards therapy but identified early on in my career that I am always client-centered and strength-based. I believe every single person has the capacity to not only survive and "make it through" adversity but to thrive in life as well. I believe the key lies within each persons' desire to grow, change, and flourish with their innate unique strengths, talents, and personality. I have worked with at-risk youth in a professional capacity for several years, including internships in adolescent partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient and residential drug rehabilitation programs. I also worked in-home with adolescents and their families working to help mend hurt pasts, create a healthier present, and work towards an even better and brighter future for themselves and their families. In addition to evidence-based training, I have years of casual volunteer experience with at-risk youth as well. My passion to help others is my drive, but my experience in watching others truly help themselves is my inspiration. If you want something better, then I will work with you to help you find the better that's already within you, and help you discover all you need is all you are, and all you are is truly amazing.
Yajahira Mendez Johnson
LPC
Bilingual Spanish
As a licensed professional, my credentials include a Masters degree in Professional Counseling from Post University, a double major Bachelors of Arts degree in both Sociology and Psychology, and an Associates's degree in Criminal Justice.
I am a bilingual , goal-oriented professional who aims to personalize each and every one of my client’s therapeutic experiences. Thus far, I have collaborated with a wide range of clientele of all ages and am comfortable working in a variety of settings including outpatient therapy, in-home services, mobile crisis intervention and many more.
​
I have multiple specialty areas including but not limited to: abuse, addiction, codependency, trauma, behavioral needs and co-occurring disorders. I utilize treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused, solution focused brief therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and motivational interviewing. In addition, I have also trained as a circle of security facilitator in both Spanish and English. As an outpatient counselor, my main focus is to utilize all my training and professional experience to provide you with safe opportunities to discover your strengths in a way that’s personal and effective to you and your needs.
Allison Pons
LCSW, LADC
(she/her)
Seeking out and accepting help takes courage and addressing your mental health can feel overwhelming, but know that you don’t need to do it alone. I take a collaborative approach with my clients and will be with you every step of the way. I will create a safe, non-judgmental, and affirming space to build a strong therapeutic relationship, empowering you to heal, grow, and gain the support and tools you need to create change and build a life worth living.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and have experience conducting individual and group psychotherapy with adults in different outpatient settings. I provide trauma informed care and utilize solution focused and strengths based techniques as well as a variety of other therapeutic interventions and evidenced based practices, including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I treat co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma, grief & loss, self-esteem, life transitions, relational issues, anger management, and stress management.
Katelyn Collins
LPC, NCC
I am a licensed professional counselor and a national certified counselor with six years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families. I also support those adolescents transitioning into young adulthood and navigating that aspect of life. I have previous experience working in a special education school, in home therapy, and inpatient child/adolescent psychiatric.
My style of counseling is positive, person-centered and solution focused. I focus on individual/family strengths, culture and self-care. I will provide a safe and soothing environment for all of my clients to work through their identified needs. I use techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and several different parenting theories. I am well-versed in today’s social media applications and how they directly affect to health and well-being of our children.
Joan Jacobs LCSW
Congratulations on taking the first step toward change. If you are reading this you have recognized something in your life is not working. Perhaps you are experiencing conflicts at work, stuck in an unhealthy relationship, or somehow feeling inauthentic. Together in a safe and collaborative environment we can work to better understand unhealthy functioning and move to create change. My style is nurturing, honest, supportive and fused with humor.
I work with children, adults and seniors, to relieve pain, lessen stress and develop appropriate coping strategies for relieving symptoms of depression and anxiety, often brought on by life transitions.
I have a Masters degree in Social Work from Fordham University and a Masters degree in Teaching from Columbia University. I completed a fellowship at the Columbia University Child Study Center where I did research on early diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. I trained in (CBT) and Trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I am a licensed yoga instructor versed in mediation techniques.
Jocelyn Tapia- Rakiposki LCSW
Bilingual Spanish
She uses an integrative therapeutic approach to support her clients reach their goals She has experience working in a child inpatient psychiatric unit, intensive outpatient program, in-home services and hospital social work with a diverse group of individuals ranging from 2 years old to 92 years old. Jocelyn also has extensive experience working with at risk and court involved youth and families dealing with behavioral difficulties in the community.
Jocelyn uses many different treatment methods based on a client’s needs. Her main objective is to ensure her clients feel supported, safe and validated.
Areas of emphasis include: Depression, anxiety, conduct disorder, conflict in relationships, family systems, mood disorders, oppositional defiance disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, child play therapy, substance abuse, truancy, varying degrees of trauma and various types of physical and/or sexual abuse. Jocelyn uses an array of clinical approaches including Psychodynamic counseling, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Humanistic Therapy and Creative/ Pleay therapy for children, to provide an integrated and solution-focused perspective geared towards psychotherapeutic change that meet the specific needs of each client.
Susan Kudrak
LPC, NCC, MS
Welcome…to a warm and caring place where we can work together to help sort out your challenges. If you need help with anxiety, depression, grief, or career or relationship dilemmas, or if a situation is just too much to face alone right now, we can work through it. For all clients, my emphasis is on providing a judgment-free zone based on open communication. This enables us to achieve results in the areas of emotional growth, mental health, and peace of mind.
My Masters in Counseling, which led to an LPC license (Licensed Professional Counselor) was earned at Western Connecticut State University, in Danbury, CT, along with a BA in Social Sciences. I also hold an MBA degree in Organizational Development from Upper Iowa University. My own life path has included continuous learning, a career in business, and a second career in counseling, all related around the helping professions. I enjoy spending non-work time with family and friends including my grown son when he is available, with my two Australian Shepherd dogs who are known as “The Boys”, and with volunteering at a local museum.
I look forward to hearing from you and working with you.
Diane Allen
LCSW
Is life overwhelming? Are you having difficulty in a relationship? Feeling confused and upset? Are you looking to make change in your life? I would like to congratulate you on taking the first step in your healing journey. Finding the right therapist is an important part of that journey. I would love to share a little about myself and my work to see if I am that therapist for you.
​
I am Diane, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a certification in Nephrology. I use the strength based perspective with a holistic approach so that we include all of your being. During our sessions, we will work not only on your unique goals, but also work to help you in your day to day life by developing new coping skills. All of this is done with compassion, clear communication, and a sense of humor!
I work with young adults to seniors. I provide both individual and marriage counseling for people suffering for anxiety, life transitions, grief, new diagnosed illnesses, caretaker burnout, depression, and relation difficulties to name a few. The scientific based methods I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Positive Psychology.
I received my Masters of Social Work from the University of Connecticut in 2016. Becoming a LCSW was a second career for me, so I come to the table with lots worldly experience!
Jacenya Nguyen LPC
Jacenya is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut and her Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Bridgeport.
My clinical experience has been in both outpatient and in home settings working with a wide range of clients in the greater Waterbury area. I have experience with children, adolescents and adults of all ages, who present with a variety of mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Conduct Disorders, Substance Use and Co-occuring Disorders. I have also worked with children and adults involved in the court system and have experience working with families who have DCF involvement.
In addition to my clinical experience, I have also worked in the Waterbury public school system assisting children who receive special education and have experience working with family service agencies that provide in home services to individuals with Autism and other developmental challenges.
I am well versed in CBT and Solution Focused treatment and provide culturally competent and trauma informed care to all my clients. My therapeutic approach is tailored to the need of each individual client and focuses on forming a collaborative relationship to foster change.
Maria Malaspina LPC-A
Maria is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. Maria has worked with clients of all ages. She has extensive experience working in both in-person and tele-health settings. She is interested in helping clients find freedom and relief in their everyday life.
Her experience includes the application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy as well as other treatment modalities. Maria works with adolescents ,adults and families with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Play Therapy, Substance Misuse and School and Career stressors.
Maria believes that each client has a unique story. She works to match each client with a treatment plan that is specifically designed for each individual case.
Reginald Harris LMFT
I specialize in working with youth and adults who have experienced adversity and/or trauma. Young people who are having difficulty navigating developmental tasks including setting boundaries, establishing healthy peer relationships, and setting future goals. I utilize EMDR and Ego State Therapy to support clients in healing from past experiences, improving self-esteem and launching into adulthood.
​
I also utilize EMDR and Ego State Therapy to work with adults who have experienced childhood adversity and/or trauma. Adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression or trauma-related symptoms which are interfering with relationship functioning, work and social activities.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist as well as an EMDRIA certified practitioner and EMDRIA Approved Consultant.
Shanika McKoy LPC-A
Hello, my name is Shanika McKoy and I believe that we are all capable and deserving of healing and joy. I believe that we can overcome even the most difficult of times to lead a life filled with peace and resilience. I thrive on providing a compassionate therapeutic environment where one can find support and a client-centered experience to grow and flourish.
I have several years of experience working with adolescent and adult populations struggling with various mental health disorders. I provide individual psychotherapy for those struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Adjustment difficulties, and Substance Use Disorders. I utilize a combination of experience, academia, spirituality, and an eclectic approach of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to provide quality and holistic client care.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab my hand and let’s take this journey together!
Ewa Lojewska LPC
Bilingual Polish
As a licensed professional counselor, I believe in helping clients collaboratively work through the course of their treatment, regardless of where they are in their healing process. I provide a welcoming environment and assist with improving overall quality of life utilizing a strengths-based, person-centered approach. I am trained in and utilize various treatment modalities, inclusive of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI). Those that work with me find that I am enthusiastic and deeply compassionate. I strive to create a comfortable, safe, and nonjudgmental environment. I specialize in treating trauma-related issues, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, relational issues, grief, and anger management. Let’s work together!
Kim DeSio LPC-A
Kim DeSio is a seasoned parent, dog-lover, and nature enthusiast. Through twenty-five years of successful work in corporate business development and personal life experiences, Kim found her passion in wellness and mental health. Six years ago, she began the transition from business consultant to therapist, and now serves as an LPC-A in the greater Hartford area. Genuine, optimistic, and positive are words to describe Kim’s personality and approach to therapy. She applies skills and techniques found in models of CBT, RBT, DBT and Family Systems, with specialized training in youth mental health, intimate partner violence, and motivational interviewing. Kim is available to help anyone with a need but especially enjoys her work with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults transitioning through midlife. Graduate of University of Saint Joseph Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Current member of American Counseling Association and CT Counseling Association.
Robert Boback LADC
Making the decision to engage in therapy can be a difficult one, but the outcome can be very rewarding. As a Connecticut licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC) with over 10 years of experience in the field, I bring a patient driven, solution focused approach to my sessions. I specialize in anxiety, stress management and substance use/abuse. I have experience working with a wide variety of mental health issues including schizophrenia, bi-polar and depression, autism spectrum disorders and OCD. My goal is to offer a safe therapeutic environment for my clients, to allow for personal growth and to work on creating a healthier life. Whatever you're working on, you are not alone. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
Keri Jakubowski LPC
As a trained clinical therapist with years of practice and supervision, my approach has a Person Centered focus based on an individual‘s unique characteristics, goals and principles. I can help people effectively manage difficulties in life and most mental health issues. I firmly believe that everyone is able to change if they want to change. We all go through times during life when we feel stuck or not sure of what we want and that’s okay. With the proper guidance and support therapy can help you make the changes you want to make, or face any challenges you face and empower you to make what you want of yourself and your life. I have extensive knowledge and skills in working with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems and addiction. My goal is to provide an environment that is non-judge mental and interactive. I want you to achieve the changes and growth you deserve and desire.
