Meet
Our Clinicians

She graduated from Southern Connecticut State University in 2018 with a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW). She works collaboratively with her clients to help them better understand themselves, find solutions to their problems and help them facilitate positive change in their lives.

While she primarily works with children, teens, and young adults, she also enjoys utilizing family centered approaches to therapy and is certified to facilitate the Circle of Security curriculum. Anna is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). In her free time, Anna volunteers with the Special Olympics of CT, enjoys spending time outdoors and with her rescued pets.

Together, you’ll explore the ways you navigate the world and asses if they align with your goals and aspirations. If you’re feeling stuck and not experiencing the best version of yourself. Talyah is here to help you discover creative and practical solutions to change that.

Her approach involves utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic techniques specifically trained to your needs. Whether you’re grappling with stress, anxiety, depression, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, please remember that you are not alone. Talyah is committed to supporting individuals who desire positive change in their lives.

Her aim is to empower you by strengthening your understanding and skills to navigate this journey with a greater sense of ease and get closer to finding that inner peace. By adopting a holistic approach, we can identify and address the areas causing you distress to ultimately provide you with relief. Talyah has the most experience supporting older adolescents and adults. Talyah is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Shaina has worked in various settings, including outpatient, extended day treatment, psychiatric emergency, and in-home environments, offering counseling to a diverse clientele facing a range of mental health issues.

Her expertise includes managing complex trauma and she is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness, with a specialized focus on sexual abuse and human trafficking. Shaina supports individuals with depression, anxiety, attachment disorders, and post-concussive symptoms.

She takes a strengths-based approach, emphasizing the mind-body connection and crafting personalized healing plans. Outside of work, Shaina recharges by spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness, and cuddling with her rescue kittens.

She brings experience supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, anxiety, depression, family changes such as divorce, and broader mental health challenges within the family system. Ashley earned her Master’s in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University through the Advanced Standing program. She also has experience working in public schools with children ages 4–14, which has strengthened her understanding of child development and school-based support systems.

Ashley takes a client-centered and compassionate approach to therapy, meeting each client where they are emotionally and developmentally. She enjoys using play-based therapy and social skills games with children, along with creative outlets like crafts and art therapy to help them express emotions and build confidence. With teens and young adults, she creates a supportive space to explore identity, relationships, and mental health concerns. Ashley also enjoys working with parents—not only in supporting their children’s emotional needs, but also as individual clients themselves, offering therapy for parenting stress, life transitions, and personal growth. Her warm, flexible style allows her to tailor each session to the unique needs of those she serves.

Dianne then furthered her education by completing her Master of Social Work at Southern CT State University.

Dianne worked for the Department of Children and Families for over 10 years in many roles ranging from protective services to overseeing permanency initiatives. Dianne’s experience at the Department of Children and Families allowed her to gain critical skills and experiences that influence her therapeutic practices today. Dianne also served as the School Social Worker at Ansonia High School.

Dianne is passionate about guiding adolescents, adults, and families as they navigate through life experiences. Dianne utilizes a holistic and client-driven approach to best grasp the needs and goals of the client.

Julia works with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, offering individual therapy and group counseling. She previously led DBT skill-based groups and continues to integrate DBT principles alongside other therapeutic modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. Her clinical experience includes supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, OCD, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, and emotional or behavioral regulation difficulties.

Using a strengths-based, integrative approach, Julia draws from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care. She is known for her warm, collaborative style and ability to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to explore their experiences.

Julia believes healing takes courage and works alongside clients to develop practical coping skills, process trauma, strengthen relationships, and foster long-term emotional wellness.

Outside of her professional work, Julia enjoys spending time in nature, exercising, practicing mindfulness, reading, and connecting with family and friends.

Grounded in a humanistic and client-centered philosophy, Morgan creates a space where clients feel genuinely seen and supported as they navigate life’s challenges. She views the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative and transformative process—one that honors each individual’s unique story and inner resilience.

Morgan integrates a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and strengths-based practices, to meet each client’s unique needs. She specializes in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms. Morgan is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). Morgan incorporates KAP as a powerful tool for deepening self-awareness, emotional release, and connection to one’s authentic self. Her eclectic, integrative style reflects her belief that meaningful change happens through genuine connection, curiosity, and compassion.

She uses a client-centered, strengths-based approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support clients in exploring their emotions, building coping skills, and creating meaningful change. Jess specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and adjustment-related struggles. She is dedicated to helping individuals strengthen their interpersonal relationships, build self-esteem, and develop effective distress tolerance skills. Jess also utilizes HeartMath biofeedback technology to teach stress reduction strategies and emotion regulation. Known for her warm, empathetic approach, Jess creates a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.

She earned her B.S. in Biology from Eastern Connecticut State University and her M.S.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Tennessee at Martin.

Rahema is passionate about integrating neurofeedback into trauma-informed care. She is trained in LENS Neurofeedback and has over two years of experience using neurofeedback to support emotional regulation, cognitive performance, and nervous system healing. Rahema incorporates neurofeedback in her work with individuals navigating PTSD, ADHD, TBIs, anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment.

Her background also includes work with individuals impacted by neurocognitive disorders such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. She holds certifications in Traumatic Grief Therapy, ADHD Clinical Services, and is a HeartMath Trauma-Sensitive Certified Practitioner.

Rahema utilizes evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness, and Strengths-Based Therapy. She takes a holistic, client-centered approach that honors the mind-body connection in healing.

Passionate about fostering healing and change, Rahema provides culturally competent care in Urdu/Hindi and English, ensuring accessible therapy for a diverse community.

She holds a Master of Science in Social Work (MSW) from New York University and has extensive experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in various settings, including hospitals and child protective services.

Renee specializes in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, personality and attachment disorders, trauma, grief, and work-life balance issues. Her therapeutic approach blends cognitive-behavioral and client-centered therapies with holistic strategies like mindfulness, meditation, and therapeutic breathing to promote healing and psychological flexibility.

As a Registered Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator (COS-P), Renee also incorporates neurofeedback into her practice, having completed intensive training in LENS Neurofeedback. She utilizes tools like Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and Bioregulation Therapy (BRT) to address issues related to mood, cognition, pain management, and more. Renee believes in the transformative power of neurofeedback as an effective, non-medical healing tool.

She is deeply passionate about supporting individuals coping with grief and adjusting to the chronic illnesses of loved ones. Sarah has a strong foundation in play therapy techniques, including the use of art, games, and music to foster connection and help clients identify and process their emotions.

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Sarah has worked with adolescents, teens, and young adults, while also developing extensive experience with adults and older adults. She is particularly skilled in collaborating with families to navigate transitions related to aging, caregiving, and progressive conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

In addition to her clinical work, Sarah has utilized evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and group therapy in acute inpatient settings to support individuals facing significant mental health challenges.

Sarah is committed to creating a safe, compassionate, and collaborative space for her clients. She believes in meeting each person where they are and empowering them to build resilience, discover their strengths, and move toward meaningful healing and growth.

A core aspect of their treatment approach is recognizing and nurturing each client’s own motivation to change, grow, and pursue personal goals—an essential pillar in the therapeutic process. Clients seeking to deepen self-understanding, identify areas of need, and work toward meaningful growth can greatly benefit from the care John provides.

Over the past three years, John has specialized in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy for individuals aged four and up. His work focuses on helping clients process and heal from trauma in a way that is both structured and compassionate. A cornerstone of effective EMDR treatment is the creation of a safe, supportive environment and his ability to foster trust and emotional safety allows clients to engage more fully in their healing journey.

A graduate of Lesley University with a background in Expressive Therapies, John integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities into practice such as: music, art, dance and other creative forms.

Understanding that therapy can feel intimidating and emotionally challenging, John prioritizes creating a supportive and welcoming environment to begin the conversation.

She believes that we are highly adaptive and that many of our difficulties start off as learned solutions that help us stay safe, survive, and navigate life. She uses a blend of interventions individualized for each client but tends to lean on experiential and bottom-up modalities. The main modalities she utilizes are Coherence Therapy, Parts Work, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, DBT, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Art Therapy.

Autumn believes that we hold the answers inside of us. A lot of times there is a disconnect between what we logically know and how we truly feel. Her aim is to guide you to the root of your problems and find ways to access those answers through exploring, processing, updating, developing new skills, and building on your strengths to create transformational change.

Alessia believes in a client-centered approach fostering a safe, empathetic approach to meet clients where they are. Alessia strives to help clients reframe and shift negative mindsets that disrupts overall functioning by identifying patterns, and choices that no longer serve them. Alessia encompasses a wide range of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Strength-based theory, Narrative Therapy, Systems Theory, and Motivational Interviewing techniques to help clients achieve goals and implement positive changes.

Recognizing that it can be challenging to open up to someone, Selena believes in building a strong therapeutic alliance and allowing clients to work at their own pace so that they can best balance life’s changes and challenges. Selena has a diversified skill set that includes working with clients with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, substance use, mood disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, as well as individuals struggling with socioeconomic stressors such as unemployment, homelessness, and financial insecurity. Selena works to provide clients with a sense of hope and self-confidence as they bring the skills that they develop in therapy to support them in their daily lives.

She places emphasis on establishing safety together to co-create meaningful experiences of change. She believes healing is deeply personal and contextual—something each person gets to define for themselves. With gentle curiosity, she supports clients in exploring what healing means to them in the present moment.

Susan specializes in the treatment of trauma and works with individuals aged 18 and older, using evidence-based approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Parts work. She considers how we relate to others and ourselves, while also inviting somatic awareness to support the connection between brain and body. Susan is also trained in Emotional Freedom Technique (Levels 1 and 2).

She believes that as new experiences emerge and past experiences are processed, we begin to free and expand our own resources for healing—moments she loves to celebrate in sessions.

She has experience working with a variety of ages providing individual, group, career counseling, and play therapy sessions in community and clinical settings. Grace invites & encourages clients to be their most authentic self while working collaboratively to develop an individually centered treatment plan. Utilizing techniques rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, narrative and feminist therapies the client will find themself more in-tune with their sense of self while growing to balance life’s difficulties. Knowing that it can be burdensome to seek out help, Grace prides herself in offering a non-judgmental atmosphere yet maintains a strength for challenging clients to recognize, evaluate, and improve issues impacting their lives.

She earned her Master’s in Art Therapy and Counseling from Albertus Magnus College and her Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Visual Arts from SUNY Purchase.

Nicolette works with kids, teens, and adults, supporting people as they navigate life changes, explore their identity, manage relationships, and cope with stress. She’s trained in EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mixes these approaches with art therapy and DBT to help clients process experiences and connect with their inner strengths. Her goal is to create a supportive, relaxed space where clients feel heard, valued, and free to explore themselves at their own pace.

Avery’s clinical experience includes working with children, teens, and adults across various settings, including public schools, substance use treatment groups, and intensive psychiatric services for children and families. Avery specializes in treating anxiety, ADHD, depression, self-harm, and substance use through a trauma-focused, strengths-based approach. She integrates modalities such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to tailor treatment to the unique needs and goals of each client.

Avery employs a client-centered, compassionate approach with individuals of all ages, fostering a safe, supportive environment for growth. For younger clients, she utilizes play-based techniques such as games and arts & crafts to build rapport and engagement. Avery is also dedicated to guiding adults through life’s transitions, including challenges related to parenting, mental health, and relationships. She believes in empowering clients with insights and coping strategies to navigate and overcome their struggles.

She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Design with a minor in Printmaking from the University of Hartford – Hartford Art School, and a Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling from Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, Connecticut.

Audra has worked with children, adults, and older adults—including individuals with Alzheimer’s disease—in both individual and group settings. Her clinical experience spans a variety of environments, including inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use programs, therapeutic school settings, senior living communities, and private practice.

Specializing in perinatal mental health, Audra is trained through Postpartum Support International (PSI). She works with individuals experiencing life transitions, stress, anxiety, and relationship challenges, and offers dedicated support to parents navigating toddlerhood, helping them manage the emotional and developmental complexities of early parenting.

Audra is also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)—a trauma-informed, evidence-based modality that uses eye movements to help clients resolve distressing memories and experiences quickly and effectively. ART often provides relief within a few sessions, without requiring clients to retell traumatic events in detail.

Her therapeutic approach is holistic, client-centered, and tailored to each individual’s needs. She blends Art Therapy, Neurofeedback, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and, when appropriate, a spiritual perspective—creating space for deeper healing and personal growth.

Julia works with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, offering individual therapy and group counseling. She previously led DBT skill-based groups and continues to integrate DBT principles alongside other therapeutic modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. Her clinical experience includes supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, OCD, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, and emotional or behavioral regulation difficulties.

Using a strengths-based, integrative approach, Julia draws from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care. She is known for her warm, collaborative style and ability to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to explore their experiences.

Julia believes healing takes courage and works alongside clients to develop practical coping skills, process trauma, strengthen relationships, and foster long-term emotional wellness.

Outside of her professional work, Julia enjoys spending time in nature, exercising, practicing mindfulness, reading, and connecting with family and friends.

Hannah specializes in supporting clients who have experienced sexual violence, dating violence, and stalking.

In session, Hannah uses a humanistic approach to empower clients to better understand themselves, identify their strengths, uncover helpful and unhelpful patterns, and find practical solutions to their challenges. In her free time, she enjoys taking care of her plants, baking, and playing shows with her band!

All humans struggle at times. Everyone has painful experiences. We try hard to avoid or get rid of the negative parts of our lives-but it never seems to work. In fact, sometimes it feels like our problems only get worse. ACT Therapy can help you integrate your whole self and move forward in a valued direction. It’s your values that guide the process. Treatment will move towards what gives you meaning and purpose.

Matt approaches therapy without judgement of your values and beliefs. He will support you in making your life the one you want to live.

A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), she has worked at Wheelock College in Boston and Eastern Connecticut State University, with a strong focus on supporting the young adult population.

Acey has actively engaged in social justice conferences and trainings to enhance her self-awareness and better serve her clients. She has experience working with undocumented individuals and international clients, and has a particular interest in supporting clients through sexual and gender identity formation.

Her approach is deeply influenced by relational, attachment, and developmental theories. Acey believes in the power of relationships to foster growth and healing, viewing herself as a partner in the therapeutic process rather than an authority figure. Her strengths-based approach emphasizes adaptive coping skills to help clients manage challenges.

In addition to individual therapy, Acey enjoys facilitating group therapy, recognizing the value of supportive relationships in addressing grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression.

She is described by clients and colleagues as warm, caring and honest. Her demeanor has earned her the respect and enabled her to become the clinical team leader on the inpatient unit where she works in her full-time employment.

Nicole uses a variety of techniques including person in the environment and strengths perspective to assist in setting and achieving realistic goals, working as a team. Nicole also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. She is an exuberant person who will be your team player and your cheerleader all at once. Nicole offers evening appointments via telehealth.

Meghan developed her clinical skills by providing individual and group therapy sessions to children, adolescents, and adults during her time working in a variety of medical and mental health settings, including the Yale Child Study Center. She offers a client-centered and strengths-perspective while sharing a multi-modality approach. Modalities that Meghan utilizes include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness. Meghan has experience treating trauma, chronic illness, grief, anxiety and depression. She is also a certified CBT psychotherapist and Clinical Trauma Professional. Her passion is centered in working with others to promote healing and desired change.

Taylor works with clients facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, anger, and life transitions. Taking a strengths-based approach, Taylor helps clients recognize their resilience and build on the skills they already possess. She integrates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing to create a supportive and personalized therapeutic experience. Taylor earned her Master’s in Social Work from Western New Mexico University. In addition to her clinical experience, she also works as a teacher with elementary-aged students, which provides her with valuable insight into the daily stressors and developmental needs children face in school settings. Outside of her professional life, Taylor enjoys spending time with friends and family, cooking, and snuggling with her two cats, Milo and Cleo.

Specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety, Nicky primarily works with adults, including academics, introverts, creatives, and those recovering from childhood trauma. She also focuses on relationship challenges, divorce counseling, recovery for adult children of alcoholics, and helping individuals navigate life transitions.

Nicky’s approach is grounded in psychodynamic, relational, and attachment theories. Her practice is further enriched by ongoing training in areas like Interpersonal Neurobiology, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, and attachment-based parenting. Known for her warmth, humor, and collaborative style, Nicky provides a compassionate space for healing and growth.

She gained valuable experience at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York City, providing individual outpatient psychotherapy to children and adolescents from diverse cultural backgrounds and with various psychiatric disorders and learning disabilities. At Mt. Sinai, she also conducted family therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and neuropsychological evaluations.

Prior to Mt. Sinai, Dr. Wolkenfeld worked at the New York City Children’s Center, where she provided individual, group, and family therapy for patients with severe psychiatric disorders in an inpatient setting. She was part of a multidisciplinary team responsible for comprehensive treatment and care.

Most recently, Dr. Wolkenfeld worked at the Child Guidance Center (CGC) of Southern Connecticut, specializing in high-risk cases and participating in the Emergency Mobile Psychiatric Service (EMPS). She also served as a psychological testing supervisor for psychology interns.

Dr. Wolkenfeld holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Skidmore College. She is an active member of the American Psychological Association and the Association for Psychological Science.

She completed her graduate training at Yale University, where she earned her Master of Science in Nursing with induction into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with an emphasis in Neuroscience from Dartmouth College.

Morgan’s clinical background spans a wide range of settings, including outpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, residential, and inpatient child psychiatry. She has developed a strong foundation in diagnostic assessment, psychopharmacology, and collaborative treatment planning. Her approach emphasizes understanding the whole person—integrating biological, psychological, and social factors—to create individualized and sustainable treatment plans. She values a holistic, trauma-informed approach and believes in empowering her patients to take an active role in their care.

Outside of clinical practice, Morgan enjoys spending time with her family and friends watching hockey and baseball, walking her dogs, and mentoring young athletes. A former Dartmouth College varsity softball player she brings the same focus, teamwork, and dedication from the field into her work with patients.

Michael gained experience in working with those who suffer from mental health issues in a variety of settings including inpatient psychiatric treatment and residential substance abuse and recovery.

Michael is committed to providing the highest quality care through the development of a therapeutic and collaborative relationship with each of his clients. He always considers the client’s goals, wishes, and abilities when developing their individual treatment plan, and he provides appropriate medication education so his clients can make well-informed decisions regarding medication treatment options. Individualized medication treatment plans are developed and supported by scientific evidence and interprofessional collaboration. Michael is currently treating clients who are struggling with anxiety/stress, panic attacks, depression, ADD/ADHD, mood and personality disorders, addiction, sleep issues, and other mental health concerns.

Michael is a retired Army veteran with over 23 years of total service between active duty and the Army Reserve. He spent more than 13 years as an active-duty infantryman during which time he deployed to Afghanistan in support of combat operations during the global war on terrorism.

Michael lives in Avon with his girlfriend and their dog, Kermit. In his free time, Michael enjoys mountain biking, working out, hiking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Jacob has worked in various inpatient and outpatient settings across the nursing spectrum. With a holistic approach to wellness, Jacob provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for individuals across the lifespan.

Jacob is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate psychiatric care through a therapeutic and collaborative relationship with each of his clients. He thoughtfully considers everyone’s goals, values, and unique strengths when developing personalized treatment plans that are rooted in evidence-based practice. Jacob offers clear and supportive education around medication options to empower clients in making informed decisions about their mental health care. He provides both in-person and telehealth services to ensure flexible, accessible care. Jacob currently supports clients managing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, ADHD, mood and personality disorders, substance use concerns, sleep issues, and other mental health challenges. His approach emphasizes respect, collaboration, and long-term wellness.

Before becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Jacob served as a police officer, firefighter, and EMT, working in both urban and rural communities. This extensive public service background gives him a unique perspective on trauma, crisis response, and the mental health challenges faced by first responders and the communities they serve. He brings this insight into his clinical practice, offering a trauma-informed and deeply empathetic approach to care.