Our Clinicians
Ashley Kiefer, LCSW
Ashley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Owner of Kiefer Counseling, LLC. who has been working with individuals and families for over 15 years. Ashley has a variety of rich career and life experiences which lend to her ability to effectively support her diverse clientele in managing depression, grief, anxiety, managing stress, traversing life transitions, postpartum depression, the effects of trauma, death and dying, terminal illness, parenting, and couples and family conflict. Ashley concentrates on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy.
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Ashley utilizes a humanistic approach when providing services, meaning that she approaches every client without judgment, and with empathy and understanding. Ashley believes all clients are the experts of their own lives, and that a one size fits all approach to treatment is not always the best. Ashley meets her clients where they are at and takes into consideration the effects of larger systems, as well as the impact of day-to-day choices that shape their lives. By creating a safe and supportive environment, Ashley is able to empower clients to make positive changes to promote their emotional wellness and improved relationships
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Professional Training: CBT, DBT, and Solutions Focused Therapy
Where they work: Terryville and virtual
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Paige Shelesky, LMSW
Paige Shelesky is a Licensed Master of Social Work who has been working with
children and teens in the mental health field since 2017. Paige received a Masters
Degree in Social Work from Fordham University.
Paige has a background in working directly with both children and teens in a variety of
different treatment settings including schools, intensive outpatient, and residential. Also,
Paige has experience working with individuals who may be experiencing the following:
anxiety, depression, complex traumas, mood and attachment disorders, eating disorders, and mood disorders.
Paige is trained in a variety of different treatment modalities including CBT (Cognitive
Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), and ACT (Acceptance and
Commitment Therapy), Crisis interventions and safety planning. She has also been
trained in different play therapy techniques and trauma informed care Paige employs a
strength based and holistic approach when navigating different experiences from each
individual client. While utilizing creative interventions, she strives to build a supportive
environment where clients can learn to build communication skills, self-esteem, coping
skills, regulate emotions and process difficult lived experiences.
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​Where they work: Torrington and virtual
Erica Muller, NCC, LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor
With a robust foundation of over 15 years in nursing, Erica brings a comprehensive understanding of the human condition to her practice, incorporating both medical and psychological perspectives to offer holistic treatment. Erica is a National Certified, Licensed Professional Counselor who is dedicated to supporting individuals across the lifespan through one-on-one counseling sessions.
Erica is committed to creating an environment where all clients, regardless of age, feel safe, heard, and free from judgment. She embraces the potential everyone has for transformation and is passionate about aiding clients in overcoming barriers that impede their well-being and progress. Her approach is deeply rooted in a blend of compassion, empathy, and scientifically-backed methods, including EMDR, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and TraumaPlay.
Professionally trained in various therapeutic techniques such as ACT, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Therapeutic Play, Erica addresses a wide range of issues. She helps clients navigate through challenges, heal from trauma, and empower themselves to lead fulfilling lives.
As a Christian, Erica honors the role of faith in healing and is well-equipped to incorporate a Christian perspective into treatment upon request. At the same time, she maintains a respectful and inclusive practice for individuals from all backgrounds, ensuring a supportive space for those who may not identify with faith.
Erica practices in Terryville and offers virtual sessions, making her accessible to those who prefer or require remote counseling. Witnessing the resilience of the human spirit and fostering the growth and recovery of her clients is not only her profession but her passion. Erica is here to walk with you on your journey towards healing and personal fulfillment.
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Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Erika D'Angelo, LPC
My name is Erika D’Angelo and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes we all have the capability to heal from the past and work towards our future goals. My areas of interest include trauma and abuse, PTSD, substance use, mood disorders, relationships, communication, life transitions, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. I believe my clients are the professionals of their own lives, and I am able to offer further insights through my education, trainings, and experience.
I enjoy using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with my clients to allow them to identify their trauma, process it in a non-judgmental way, and heal from it. I enjoy being a part of the healing journey, and see clients leave my office better than when they came in. I also enjoy using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness as therapy approaches to challenge clients to become the best versions of themselves.
I am here to listen, offer coping strategies, and support my clients to feel empowered and capable of managing life’s difficulties. Together, we will create realistic interventions, and objectives to accomplish, and celebrate the small victories along the way. I look forward to this journey together!
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Professional Training: EMDR, DBT
Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Jeremiah Baker, LCSW
My name is Jeremiah Baker, LCSW. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History Education from Maranatha Baptist University in 2003 and a Master’s in Social Work from UCONN in 2019. Furthermore, I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2021.
I utilize a strengths-based approach to help you identify and utilize your strengths so that you can make the necessary changes to overcome what you are currently struggling with. I use a friendly, straight-forward, empathetic approach to create an open and welcoming environment. I have been working in the mental health field for 15 years in a variety of settings including behavioral schools, inpatient behavioral health units, foster care and group homes. I have worked with people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, PTSD and addiction and have been trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
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Professional Training: CBT, DBT, and Solutions Focused Therapy
Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Ali Therrien, LPC
My name is Ali Therrien. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Counselor in Connecticut. My counseling career is based in education as a school counselor at the elementary, middle and high school levels while working at a private practice in the evenings. This experience allows me to support children and families as they navigate the school setting for a successful school experience. I work with children and adolescents and their families who have experienced attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, anxiety, depression/mood disorders, parenting difficulties, stress, loss, and the frustrations of life. Additionally, I have worked with adults suffering from depression/mood disorders, anxiety and relationship issues.
My counseling style is based on my steadfast belief that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to client growth. It is key for the individual that I am working with to feel heard, valued and understood. This allows you to establish goals and explore strategies outside of sessions. My therapeutic experience has created my specialization in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Psychoeducational Therapy, Client Centered Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I look forward to working with you and guiding you in meeting your therapeutic goals.
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Professional Training: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Client Centered Therapy
Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Amanda Ney, MFTA
Amanda Ney is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate Clinician who has been working with teens and adolescents since 2021. Amanda received a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Central Connecticut State University.
Amanda has several years of experience supporting clients who have been victims of abuse in an outpatient setting. Amanda has experience working closely with teenagers and adolescents struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, body issues, LGBTQ+, familial or relational conflict, and intergenerational trauma.
Amanda understands that healing can be a messy and frustrating process that most often does not go as planned. She believes that healing is not a one size fits all process and it looks different for each client. She is passionate about creating a space of grace and connection for her clients to begin their healing journey. She utilizes a holistic approach, incorporating different modalities that best suit each client’s needs.
Professional Training: Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Culturally Sensitive, Family / Marital, Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative, Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT), Play Therapy, Psychoanalytic, Psychodynamic, Relational, Strength-Based, Trauma Focused
Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Marisa D'Amico, LMFT
My name is Marisa D’Amico and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with several years of experience working with adolescents and families in the home, school, community, and residential settings. I have worked in a variety of programs including an evidence based in-home therapy model and school-based therapy addressing high risk behaviors, relationship conflicts, and parenting techniques. I have experience working with Disruptive, Impulse Control and Oppositional behaviors, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use in youth, trauma and stressors, disordered eating patterns, and youth involved in the juvenile justice system. I utilize a strengths-based approach and work through a systemic, holistic approach targeting all factors in life that impact your ability to function at your best self. I work with a variety of modalities including Solution Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, CBT, DBT, crisis intervention, tapping techniques, and psychoeducation to help you reach your desired goals.
It’s important to me to meet you where you are at and help navigate through life’s issues and support you in finding the skills needed to conquer any issue. I incorporate compassion, empathy, humor, and always strive to foster a non-judgmental and safe space for healing and growth to begin.
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Professional Training: LMFT, Solution Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, CBT, DBT, Crisis Intervention, Tapping Techniques
Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Laura Capri, LCSW
Laura is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working with individuals and families since receiving her Master’s Degree from Fordham University in 2013. Since then, Laura has worked in the mental health field in various settings including intensive outpatient programs, in home psychiatric programs, skilled nursing facilities, psychiatric hospitals, hospice and visiting nurse agencies. Laura is passionate about helping those navigating their journey through grief and loss, death and dying, terminal illness, parenting, postpartum depression, anxiety, depression and life’s ups and downs. Laura has an empathetic and supportive approach to therapy and encourages clients to tune into their own strengths in order to meet their identified goals and make positive changes.
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As a clinician who’s experienced my own infertility journey, I have a unique understanding of the emotional, physical, socio economical, and interpersonal impacts you may be facing. I understand how isolating infertility can feel, since I myself didn’t have anyone in my immediate social or family circle who had gone through it. I believe seeking support and help can only benefit how you approach and perceive your own journey. I’ve grown passionate about helping my clients navigate the difficult decisions that infertility and treatment imposes and supporting them to advocate for themselves, their partners and the family they have been dreaming of.
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Laura utilizes strengths-based and evidence-based practice, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and Integrative Holistic Therapy to empower clients with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take control of their lives and achieve their goals.
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Professional Training: CBT, DBT, and Integrative Holistic Therapy
​Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Alyssa Patenaude, LMFT
My name is Alyssa Patenaude and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have worked as an in-home behavioral therapist targeting at risk youth and families dealing with an array of concerns such as oppositional behaviors, impulse control, ADHD, depression and anxiety, substance use in youth, trauma and stressors, truancy, and youth involved in the juvenile justice system and/or DCF.
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I use a strength-based, non-judgmental, systemic approach by looking at all the factors that might be contributing to these behaviors and stressors to help alleviate blame, increase support, and help you function as your best self. I utilize a variety of modalities such as CBT, DBT, Solution Focused therapy, Structural Family therapy, crisis interventions and safety planning, and psychoeducation to help you reach your desired goals. I take pride in meeting my clients where they are in their life and moving at a rate that you are comfortable with. It is important for me to use a mixture of empathy, compassion, humor, and validation in all of my sessions. I look forward to meeting you and appreciate you letting me come along on your journey!
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Professional Training: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy
Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Kate Schacter, LMFT
Kate Schacter is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Kate has experience working with individuals, couples and families ranging in age and treating a variety of issues related to relationships, communication, self-confidence, and stress management. She also specializes in career counseling, grief and loss, divorce and helping clients heal from emotional abuse.
Kate believes in taking a systemic approach that considers all of the significant factors, relationships, and supports in clients’ lives. To create a collaborative therapeutic experience, Kate begins with creating a supportive and trusting connection to provide clients with a comfortable space to discuss their challenges and insecurities as well as their strengths and hopes for the future. Kate helps clients identify goals, explore patterns and opportunities for change, and develop skills to better understand their emotions, improve relationships, and successfully navigate difficult life transitions.
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Professional Training: Structural, solution focused, CBT, incorporate some DBT skills
Where they work: Virtual
Madeline Natera, LPC-A
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My name is Madeline Natera. I am a Spanish speaking, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My interest includes working with individuals who would like to address personal trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and overall life stressors. I have worked in multiple settings within the field including, school based, in-home therapeutic foster care support, reunification services, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I've facilitated teen empowerment groups and have worked with survivors of victimized crimes. I specialized in an array of therapeutic modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, or Conduct Problems (MATCH-ADTC), Expressive Art and Play Therapy.
Nothing is more inspiring than seeing an individual walk away feeling lighter, freer, and excited to live their own personal journey after healing from wounds and obstacles. I'm ready to provide you with active listening, empathy, and validation. I am excited to meet you, provide a safe space and be your cheerleader as you navigate a path of resilience, courage, and hope!
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Professional Training: Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Solutions Focused Therapy, MATCH-ADTC, Expressive Art and Play Therapy
Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Thea Bernabe, LMSW
Thea Bernabe is a Licensed Master of Social Work who has been working with
children and teens in the mental health field since 2016. Thea received a Master’s
Degree in Social Work from UConn in 2020.
Thea has a background in working with children, adolescents, and their families in a variety of treatment settings, including outpatient and residential programs. She has experience working with individuals who may have a significant trauma history, dual diagnoses, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders and attachment disorders.
Thea is trained in a variety of different treatment modalities including crisis interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment Self-Regulation & Competency (ARC), Solution Focused Therapy and Art therapy. Thea’s efforts and approach contribute to her ability to communicate effectively with clients while forming a positive, healthy relationship with her clients. She finds that collaborating and understanding the perspective and opinions of others to be very helpful in developing solutions.
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​Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Brittney Romagna, LPC
Brittney "Britt" Romagna is a passionate and dedicated counselor who wholeheartedly invests in the well-being of her clients. With a deep commitment to helping others, she combines her extensive knowledge and expertise in counseling with a creative approach to foster a warm and supportive environment for her clients. Britt believes in the transformative power of person-centered care, skillfully tailoring each therapeutic experience to her client's unique strengths and interests to foster a sense of empowerment and engagement in the therapeutic process.
Britt Romagna is a licensed professional counselor associate and a fourth-year doctoral student at Fordham University, where she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. She earned her Master of Arts in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness at New York University, where she developed a strong foundation in therapeutic principles and techniques. She recognizes that each individual is unique, with their own set of experiences, strengths, and challenges. By fostering a non-judgmental and empathetic space, she ensures that her clients feel valued, heard, and understood. Britt believes that the therapeutic relationship is built on trust and collaboration, where clients are actively involved in their own healing process.
With her integrative approach, Britt encourages you to embrace your unique qualities and promotes the reflection necessary to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Professional Training: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and
Commitment Therapy), and trauma-informed care
​Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Breeann Redman, LCSW
Breeann is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a strong commitment to helping individuals achieve their goals and lead fulfilling lives. With a Master’s Degree from the University of Connecticut (UCONN) and having worked in various roles at a prominent area agency for nearly a decade, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. In the role of Clinical Care Manager, she skillfully guided clients toward improved mental health and overall well-being. Later while working as a clinician and program manager, she aided the development of young adults by focusing on enhancing their life skills through clinically informed strategies. Her tenure in this capacity allowed her to nurture the growth of both clients and fellow counselors.
Breeann employs a client centered therapeutic approach and has an extensive background in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other similar diagnoses. She emphasizes strengths, positivity, and empowerment all while providing the client with a safe space needed for growth. She incorporates a variety of strategies designed to help clients reframe negative thought patterns, manage life transitions, confront obstacles, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. This allows clients to develop a positive mindset to achieve their personal goals.
Breeann finds fulfillment in collaborating with a wide range of individuals from diverse backgrounds and different age groups. She concentrates on empowering them with vital life skills, effective coping mechanisms, and a strong sense of self-assurance. She adeptly addresses issues related to self-identity, career pursuits, interpersonal connections, and fostering independence. Additionally, she takes a keen interest in partnering with young adults engaged in athletics, helping them work through challenges on and off the court or field. She helps athletes manage performance-related stress, overcome setbacks, and find balance between their athletic pursuits and personal lives.
Whether you’re seeking guidance through life’s difficulties or striving to reach your full potential, Breeann’s compassionate approach and comprehensive skill set make her a valuable partner on your journey towards growth and healing.
Professional Training: Learning Inventory of Skills (LIST) trained, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Trained, Motivational Interviewing Trained
​Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Amanda Panniello, LMSW
Amanda Panniello is a Licensed Master of Social Work who has been working with
clientele in the mental health field since 201. Amanda received a Masters
Degree in Social Work from Quinnipiac University.
Amanda is passionate about working directly with both adolescents, teenagers, and adults helping them navigate the challenges of grief, death and dying, chronic illness and chronic pain, social isolation, family dynamics/conflict, caregiver burnout, depression, and anxiety. I offer a positive, comforting, and relaxed environment where clients can safely express their feelings without judgement. I utilize a strengths-based, person-centered, and collaborative approach. Life is a journey filled with so many ups and downs; I aim to help empower my clients with skills to cope with life’s difficulties and to live the life they dream of.
Professional Training: CBT approach, Solutions-focused, goal-oriented
Fun facts: I was an elite-level competitive gymnast growing up, and I’m a huge professional wrestling fan!
Where they work: Torrington and virtual
Angel Munoz-Velazquez, LMSW
Angel Munoz-Velazquez, LMSW, is a bilingual therapist fluent in both Spanish and English. With a passion for serving others, Angel embarked on a journey to become a social worker. He completed his Associate in Science at Capital Community College in 2016 and went on to obtain a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from CCSU. Recognizing the importance of further education in this field, Angel pursued and successfully earned a Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University.
Throughout his educational journey, Angel gained invaluable experience by working with Child Protective Services for several years. Implementing a strength-based approach, he assisted numerous families in identifying their strengths, core values, and areas for growth. With a strong belief in treating every individual with respect, dignity, and compassion, Angel is dedicated to serving and helping children, families, and individuals as a therapist.
Additionally, Angel's dedication to holistic healing extends beyond therapy. With over 17 years of experience as a Reiki Master Teacher, he understands the importance of addressing the mind, body, and spirit in the healing process. This unique perspective enriches his therapeutic approaches and allows him to offer comprehensive support to his clients.
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​Where they work: Torrington and virtual
Coffean Powell, Intern
Coffean Powell is a dedicated Counseling Intern on the path to achieving her master’s degree in clinical and mental health. Coffean's ultimate goal is to become an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). Coffean has been skillfully working with children, adolescents, adults, and families across various contexts since 2020.
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Coffean's specialization revolves around aiding individuals in addressing personal trauma, fostering self-esteem, managing anxiety and depression, and navigating the complexities of life's challenges. Coffean's professional journey has encompassed diverse settings, including school-based environments, IICAPS (Intensive In-home Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services), foster care support, and more.
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Coffean's therapeutic toolkit encompasses a versatile range of techniques, such as Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and the creative realm of Therapeutic Play.
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Moreover, Coffean finds fulfillment in collaborating with adults, assisting them in coping with PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, and the day-to-day stressors that everyone encounters. With her compassionate guidance and multifaceted therapeutic approaches, Coffean Powell is steadfast in illuminating the path towards mental well-being for all she has the privilege to serve.
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"Taking care of your mental health doesn't require monumental leaps; simply do what you can today, and let each small step pave the way to greater well-being."
-Coffean Powell
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​Where they work: Torrington and virtual
Shannon Ryan, LMSW
Shannon Ryan is our enthusiastic masters level clinician. They work with adolescents, teens, and individuals to navigate the challenges of life transitions, identity, and mental health.
In session, you can expect to be heard and accepted while we work cooperatively to find ways to answer life’s hardest questions. They want to learn about who you are and how we can all work together to help you flourish as your unique self.
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“I have a passion for helping individuals and intimate relationships of all types. If you are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, nerdy, quirky, kinky, or feel you are ‘different’ from those around you, you can expect to be greeted with warmth, kindness, and respect.”
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In addition, they have worked in the treatment of substance use and mental health disorders and have experience in harm reduction, trauma-informed card, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. They are also currently in training to provide gender affirming care to their clients.
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They believe in helping their clients through a process of learning and challenging. You can expect to be able to share in a non-judgmental space, while we collaborate to gain knowledge, learn new perspectives, heal, and develop the tools to laugh, love, cry, and cope. Whether it be trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, or if you find yourself at a difficult crossroad in life, they will look forward to embarking with you on your journey!
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Where they work: Torrington and virtual
Patrick J. Ferrero, LMSW
Patrick Ferrero is a Master Social Worker Intern (MSW), who has been working in the social work field since graduating from Southern Connecticut State University with his Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree in 2016. In his last year of studies, Patrick has been focusing on specializing in mental health and co-occurring disorders.
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Patrick has experience working with teens and adults over the last 7 years working in a multitude of different treatment settings including in home, and inpatient. Patrick has worked with diverse client populations within these settings and has supported clients experiencing depression and anxiety, OCD, PTSD, substance use, and those with mood disorders.
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Patrick is a compassionate social worker who feels it is important to build a rapport with his clients and make them feel safe to explore and process their emotions and build self-confidence. Patrick has worked with clients who are seeking to build confidence in their abilities to progress through the challenges that life brings. Patrick has experience in assisting clients who are dealing with life transitions, anxiety, maladaptive coping strategies, and looking to improve their social emotional skills. He has also worked in the treatment of substance use and mental health disorders and has experience with harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
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Patrick takes a person-centered approach and takes time with his clients to understand their strengths and empower them to work on their identified goals.
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Where they work: Terryville and Virtual
Mackenzie Degnan, MSW-Intern
Mackenzie Degnan is a Master Social Worker Intern (MSW), who has been working in the social
work field since graduating from Western New England University with her Bachelor of Arts;
Major in Psychology degree and a Minor in Education in 2021. Mackenzie offers genuine,
down-to-earth care and is dedicated to supporting clients throughout their journey to improved overall wellness.
Mackenzie’s areas of interest include child and adolescent mental health and perinatal mental health. Prior to my role at Kiefer Counseling, I provided counseling within the public school system for children/adolescents and families.
Therapy with me is a tailored, personalized experience that fits the needs of each individual. I
utilize an integrative, strengths-based approach and pull from evidence-based techniques and
tools. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is important and should encompass trust and collaboration. I work to create a comfortable, safe space that welcomes you just as you are.
I look forward to connecting soon. Until then, be good to yourselves!
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Where they work: Torrington and virtual
Arianna Pina, LMSW
Arianna Pina is a licensed master social worker with a passion for helping individuals overcome trauma and adversity. Arianna is dedicated to providing trauma-informed care to her clients, understanding the impact that past experiences can have on their mental health and well-being. Arianna has background in working with adolescents, teens, and adults in a variety of treatment settings, including higher levels of care like IOP (intensive outpatient) and PHP (partial hospitalization program), making her well versed in crisis interventions and working with clients who have significant trauma backgrounds. In addition to working with people with a trauma background, Arianna has experience working with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, as well as substance use disorders and dual diagnosis.
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Arianna is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for her clients, using evidence-based practices to guide her work. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and empowerment in the therapeutic process, helping individuals build resilience and move towards healing. Arianna uses a variety of modalities including crisis interventions, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy).
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Arianna believes in meeting people where they are at and tailoring her approach to suit her clients unique needs and experiences. Arianna is dedicated to fostering a therapeutic relationship that encompasses collaboration and trust so that clients can learn how to effectively regulate their emotions, build healthy coping skills, foster a sense of self worth and build self esteem, all while processing difficult life experiences.
Kat Kowal, LMSW
My name is Kat Kowal and I am a licesned master social worker! I have experience working with children and adolescents in the school settings, as well as working with their families. Along with experience doing one on one counseling with young adults on a college campus setting. I specialize in using person centered models putting my clients as first priority along with utilizing systems theory, recognizing my clients in their environment and evidence based practices to guide my work with individuals and families.
I have experience working with trauma, crisis, dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders, psychotic disorders, autism, and ADHD. I have experience utilizing DBT, CBT, trauma informed practice, problem solving, and conflict theory.
Working with me you can always expect a safe place to be heard, and guided. Along with strong support and kindness in a judgment free environment. I am here for my clients, and have a strong passion for meeting everyone’s needs. Together we will collaborate to learn, gain new perspectives, and learn skills to grow as an individual.
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Where they work: Torrington and virtual
Taylor Sagan, LPC-A
My name is Taylor Sagan and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate here in Connecticut! I have a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counselor from the University of New Haven.
I'm experienced in working with individuals facing severe mental health disorders as well as individuals in mental health crises. I believe in taking a straight-forward yet compassionate approach to working with others. My therapeutic approaches include CBT, DBT, humanistic, and person-centered to support clients. My areas of interest include trauma, substance use, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, and interpersonal relationships. I use these approaches to help people in feeling confident to make the necessary changes as well as feeling supported and validated.
I believe that every person is an expert in their own experiences and journeys, and that everyone is capable of improving!
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Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Alicia Duquette, LMSW
I have a background working with children and adolescents across settings such as outpatient, in home, school settings and inpatient. I'm skilled in working with adults in outpatient settings who have experienced anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, PTSD, substance abuse, family conflict, and mood disorders. My goal for clients is to provide a collaborative safe space to heal and grow towards your goals.
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I understand life can be difficult and I can work with you through those uneasy emotions, life stressors, substance abuse, relationships, or trauma that affects you. I'm trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma informed care, Crisis Intervention, and Safety Planning.
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Therapy shouldn’t be an added stressor. My approach is holistic and strengths based, that can be adaptable to your needs and best suit you on your journey.
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Where they work: Terryville and virtual
Aliera Chipman, LMSW
Aliera Chipman is a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. She holds a Master's Degree in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University.
Aliera has experience working with children, teens, and young adults, addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. Her areas of specialization include mood disorders, ADHD, attachment disorders, autism, anxiety, depression, developmental disabilities and other similar diagnoses. Aliera's understanding of these conditions allows her to provide targeted and effective support to her clients, helping them navigate their unique journeys toward mental wellness.
Aliera is deeply committed to creating a therapeutic environment where every client feels understood, valued, and empowered. She believes in the importance of tailoring therapeutic approaches to meet the individual needs of each client, recognizing that no two people are the same. By employing a person-centered and strengths-based approach, she ensures that her clients are active participants in their own healing processes.
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Where they work: Torrington and virtual
Brianna Barkauskas, LPCA
Hi everyone! My name is Brianna Barkauskas. I am an Licensed Professional Counselor Associate while also working full time as Certified School Counselor in Connecticut. My experience as a School Counselor facilitating both individual and group sessions has prepared me to best assist young children, adolescents, and teenagers with everyday struggles. I know how difficult it can be growing up and not knowing what to do next or not having someone to turn to. That’s why I am here to help clients through anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or negative self-talk. More specifically, if a client is struggling with conflict resolution, setting boundaries, building self-confidence or is unsure how to cope with difficulties, I am confident that I can support them and find what strategies best suit their needs!
When meeting with my clients, they can expect that I will take the time to get to know them. I strongly believe that having a trusting therapeutic relationship is the key to a successful healing process. I am committed to creating an honest and non-judgemental safe space. I realize that sometimes being vulnerable can feel uncomfortable and scary, but it is important to remember that we must do the hard work to reach our true potential!
Where they work: Terryville and virtual