Executive Clinical Director/Owner
Dr. Heather LaSelle, PhD, LCSW, MS, MPA
Experienced Therapist
In the past 20+ years, I have focused my career on working with children and families navigating overwhelming stress and life challenges. I have worked in group homes, residential settings, therapeutic schools, EMPS mobile crisis, as an IICAPS clinician, in psychiatric inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and with criminal justice systems, DCF (child welfare) and Juvenile Justice systems. I understand the systems and can help you and your child(ren) to navigate them while working towards your individual goals.
During times of crisis, overwhelming emotions can result in feelings of disconnection and isolation. Individuals and families struggle with knowing who to turn to, who they can trust, and how to move forward.
Know you are not alone. Know there is help. You deserve relief and support.
As a qualified Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am trained and skilled in methods to help you navigate your individual and family complexities, repair and restore positive relationships, build connections, and manage daily obstacles.
My therapeutic style is trauma informed, relationship and solution-focused, based on developing and repairing connections. I am both Yale and Harvard trained in treatment models and evidenced based treatment and research with expertise in treating:
ADHD
Complex Trauma / PTSD
Conduct Disorder / Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Disruptive Behaviors
Mood Disorders/ Bipolar
Depression
Anxiety
Postpartum Depression/Anxiety
Pregnancy Loss & Infertility
Reactive Attachment Disorder
Foster Care/Adoption related stress
Self-esteem
Divorce
Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence
Family Conflict and Mediation
Bullying
LGBTQIA+
Grief
Parenting
School related concerns
Behavioral concerns
Truancy, school phobia, school anxiety
Acute hospital level training and experience in treatment of youth and adults with:
Co-occurring disorders
Addiction
Suicidal Ideation/Attempts
Self-injurious / Self-harming behaviors
At-risk and high risk adolescents
Human Trafficking Survivors
You Matter.
You should never feel as though you "have" to attend therapy. Continuing to attend therapy when you don't feel connected, or are not making the progress or getting the results you want can feel like a waste of time.
Don't waste any more time. Work with someone who will help you to support a path to your goals, identifying and addressing the barriers to individual success and outlining a plan to healthy functioning, life satisfaction, and happiness. This can happen in as many or as few sessions as you would like.
Kids Matter.
Children can often become confused by therapy. Sometimes they internalize feeling as though they are "different" or "bad" as a result of engaging in therapy. As a result, some children and adolescents become resistant to engaging in treatment programs. I am happy to meet with you and your child to interview if I am the right fit to support your needs. I am willing to meet at your home or my office to support your child's engagement and involvement towards feeling better - because they deserve it.
Education Matters.
Children deserve Free and Appropriate Public Education. Education is a right of all children in the United States that is guaranteed by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Connecticut can do better in providing all students with safe and supportive educational opportunities in least restrictive environments. I am interested in supporting you and your child to achieve their full potential.
Clinical Directors
Erin Byrne, LPC
Katie Bartkus, LCSW, RPT
Katie Bartkus, LCSW, RPT
Clinical Director Adult & Adolescent Services
Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin received her Master's Degree in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive training and experience working with individuals and couples of all cultures and demographics to improve their lives. Erin works from a trauma-informed lens providing strength-based and individualized services for each person. She looks to assess unique needs, skills and strengths and works collaboratively with individuals and families to develop plans to overcome challenges and achieve goals. Erin specializes in working with men, women, couples and parents to improve communication and make changes in their lives that lead to empowerment, happiness, and success!
Katie Bartkus, LCSW, RPT
Katie Bartkus, LCSW, RPT
Katie Bartkus, LCSW, RPT
Clinical Director Children & Family Services
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Registered Play Therapist
Katie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Fordham University. She is a Registered Play Therapist accredited through the Association for Play Therapy. Katie is a graduate of the accredited Training for Adoption Competency through the Center for Adoption Support and Education, which focuses on providing support for foster and adoptive children and families across the lifespan. Katie brings years of clinical expertise with children, adolescents, adults, and families from working with evidence based models, emergency mobile crisis intervention, residential placements, school and community based programming. Katie believes in the healing properties of play, and allowing play to provide children the language needed to express emotions and heal. Katie places a strong focus on taking the time to build trust and foster a strong therapeutic relationship in order to work on the goals that the client identifies. She aims to use her knowledge of client and community systems and a client centered, strength-based approach to help individuals meet their goals
Rebecca Russo, LPC
Katie Bartkus, LCSW, RPT
Rebecca Russo, LPC
Clinical Director of Operations
Licensed Professional Counselor
Becky brings years of clinical expertise derived from years working within Yale Intensive in home child-adolescent psychiatric services, Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services, the Connecticut Juvenile Training School, and outpatient clinical practice. Becky is a certified Nurtured Heart Approach® trainer and incorporates this approach into her clinical intervention, Becky's work with children and families is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. Becky strives to create a safe, collaborative and supportive environment where our individuals feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings, and where they can develop the skills and tools they need to thrive.
Dana Barker, LCSW
Dr. Jennifer Aufiero, PsyD, LCSW
Rebecca Russo, LPC
Clinical Director of Community Services
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Dana is an experienced social worker who received her Masters in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University in 2016. She completed internships in the school setting and in extended day treatment from children ages 5 to 17.
Dana has experience working with children, adults and families in a variety of settings including managing in home programs for adults and children with disabilities. Dana has experience with group therapy including facilitating life skills groups, social groups, Dialectical Behavior Groups for Children, groups for children who have witnessed domestic violence/intimate partner violence as well as experience facilitating Intensive Outpatient Treatment for adults and children.
Dana has experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, resiliency, ADHD/ADD, anger management, stress management, self-esteem, parenting, bullying, divorce, co-occurring disorders, substance abuse and addiction and postpartum depression.
Dana uses a variety of evidenced-based practices that are person-centered and strengths based. She will work together to find the right approach for you.
Dr. Jennifer Aufiero, PsyD, LCSW
Dr. Jennifer Aufiero, PsyD, LCSW
Dr. Jennifer Aufiero, PsyD, LCSW
Clinical Director of Psychological Services
Licensed Clinical Psychologist & Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Dr. Jennifer Aufiero is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly three decades of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families across a variety of clinical settings. She earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) from Antioch University New England, where her dissertation focused on racial identity, resilience, and self-esteem among African American adoptees. She also holds a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology and a Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work.
Throughout her career, Dr. Aufiero has provided comprehensive psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services in community health centers, private practice, residential treatment programs, schools, and child welfare settings. Her experience includes individual, family, and group therapy, psychological testing, crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, behavioral health consultation, and interdisciplinary treatment planning.
She provides evidence-based care with focus on integrated healthcare and systemic collaboration. She has also held leadership roles supervising clinicians and behavioral health teams, supporting high standards of clinical care, professional development, and ethical practice.
Prior to becoming a psychologist, Dr. Aufiero spent many years with the Connecticut Department of Children and Families, serving in a variety of roles including investigations, treatment services, permanency planning, after-hours crisis response, and social work supervision. This extensive background provides her with a unique understanding of child development, family systems, trauma, adoption, foster care, and the challenges families face when navigating complex life circumstances.
Dr. Aufiero's approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to the unique needs of each individual. She is committed to helping clients build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve meaningful, lasting change in their lives and relationships.
Clinical Supervisors
Jessica Gaafar, LPC
Amanda Clavette, LCSW, PMH-C
Amanda Clavette, LCSW, PMH-C
Supervising Clinician
Jessica received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Connecticut and her Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University. Jessica is an experienced clinician with a history of working with children, adolescents, adult
Supervising Clinician
Jessica received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Connecticut and her Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University. Jessica is an experienced clinician with a history of working with children, adolescents, adults, and families addressing various mental health issues and needs. Jessica previously worked as a crisis clinician providing family-based mental health counseling, therapy, crisis intervention, and case management services to children and families. Jessica aims to help clients improve their quality of life and work through the various challenges they may be facing, by providing a safe and comfortable environment, guidance to self awareness, and strategies to a more positive self care lifestyle.
Amanda Clavette, LCSW, PMH-C
Amanda Clavette, LCSW, PMH-C
Amanda Clavette, LCSW, PMH-C
Supervising Clinician
Amanda received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and her Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Amanda has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families within their homes and community. She has experience as a milieu counselor in an adolescent girls and adult women's group home,
Supervising Clinician
Amanda received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and her Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Amanda has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families within their homes and community. She has experience as a milieu counselor in an adolescent girls and adult women's group home, worked with community mental health systems, statewide services and home based services. Amanda has experience in both clinical and supervisory roles. Amanda believes in the empowerment of her clients using a combination of trauma based and strengths based approach but recognizes the importance of the individual journey. Amanda has a deep appreciation for work with parents, especially women through perinatal mental health support and parenting transitions.
Alysha Armstrong, LCSW
Amanda Clavette, LCSW, PMH-C
Alysha Armstrong, LCSW
Supervising Clinician
Alysha has experience working with children, adults and families for almost 20 years. Alysha received a Bachelors Degree in social work from Western New England University, a Masters Degree in Human Services with a clinical focus from Post University, and a Masters Degree in Social Work from Fordham University.
Alys
Supervising Clinician
Alysha has experience working with children, adults and families for almost 20 years. Alysha received a Bachelors Degree in social work from Western New England University, a Masters Degree in Human Services with a clinical focus from Post University, and a Masters Degree in Social Work from Fordham University.
Alysha has experience working in the child protection field for over 10 years, as well as within school systems, specifically with special education students, for the last 8 years. Throughout her career, Alysha has gained extensive experience working with children and families in crisis and assisting with navigating systems including but not limited to child protection, juvenile and adult court systems, schools, public assistance and community services.
Alysha utilizes a trauma informed and strengths-based approach in working with her clients. She values the importance of understanding a person's culture, values and perspective in order to work together effectively to resolve issues and empower the children and adults she works with.
Nicole Kavalan, LCSW
Lauren Gorgone, LCSW, PMH-C
Alysha Armstrong, LCSW
Supervising Clinician
Nicole is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a passion for helping others. Nicole received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut and her Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. Nicole has worked with clients across the lifespan and has a wealth of experie
Supervising Clinician
Nicole is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a passion for helping others. Nicole received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut and her Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. Nicole has worked with clients across the lifespan and has a wealth of experience in both clinical and supervisory roles. Nicole has worked with community mental health systems, statewide services and home based services. Nicole has extensive experience working with individuals with psychiatric illness, co-occurring disorders, and behavioral issues. She also has experience working with families who have overcome or been faced with addiction issues as well as Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA).
Nicole uses a combination of a trauma based and strength-based approach to work with individuals to help them achieve their best quality of life. She likes to develop a strong therapeutic relationship with her clients and collaborate together on the client's recovery. Nicole likes to think outside the box and develop individualized treatment interventions using a holistic approach. She has a strong focus on empowering the client and incorporating self-care techniques. Nicole strives to provide a safe space for her clients and values the importances of understanding a person's culture and beliefs.
Lauren Gorgone, LCSW, PMH-C
Lauren Gorgone, LCSW, PMH-C
Lauren Gorgone, LCSW, PMH-C
Supervising Clinician
Lauren is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a strong background in supporting individuals and families through the perinatal period. She holds a BSW from Eastern Connecticut State University and an MSW from Columbia University. Her clinical experience spans work with children, adolescents, adults, and families a
Supervising Clinician
Lauren is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a strong background in supporting individuals and families through the perinatal period. She holds a BSW from Eastern Connecticut State University and an MSW from Columbia University. Her clinical experience spans work with children, adolescents, adults, and families across home, school, hospital, and outpatient settings.
Lauren provides supervision to BSW and MSW students, has led a home visiting program for perinatal families, and teaches as an adjunct professor at two Connecticut universities. She earned her Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) from Postpartum Support International in 2024 and is trained in Circle of Security. She also facilitates parenting groups and professional workshops focused on perinatal mental health and early parenthood.
Her practice is trauma-informed, holistic, and person-centered. Lauren integrates approaches such as CBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to create personalized, meaningful care rooted in a strong therapeutic connection.
Dr. Ronald Brone, PhD
Dr. Brone obtained his PhD in clinical psychology from Fordham University in 1993, and has been a practicing, licensed psychologist for the past 23 years. He has experience with clients of all ages and with all types of psychiatric symptoms. Over the past 20 years, however, he has specialized in working with adolescents and their families. In particular, he has extensive experience working with adolescents presenting with aggressive or challenging behaviors and in helping individuals and families navigate safely through acute emotional crises. While Dr. Brone primarily utilizes a cognitive-behavioral approach, he adjusts his style based on the individual needs of the client. Above all, Dr. Brone believes that the basis of any effective therapy experience rests on building a trusting, supportive relationship with the therapist.
Ellise Vasquez, LMSW
Bilingual/Bicultural (Spanish/English) Se habla español
Ellise received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from the University of Bridgeport and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Ellise has experience as an Intensive In-Home Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services (IICAPS) mental health counselor working with both children and adults experiencing a wide range of mental health disorders including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma. Ellise also has experience working with children and adults who are sysetm involved including the court system - through probation and parole as well as extensive work with DCF involved families. Her expertise includes specializing in treatment of individuals who have been victims or a witness to physical, emotional, sexual and domestic violence. Ellise supports her clients through trauma informed treatment interventions and developing a healing therapeutic alliance centered on client goals and strengths.
Kristin Rouse, LCSW
Kristin Rouse is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a deep passion for working with children, teens, and families. Her commitment to supporting young people stems from her own lived experiences, which shaped her compassion, empathy, and strong sense of advocacy.
Kristin earned her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Western Connecticut State University and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Connecticut. She began her career as a Guardian ad Litem, representing children in foster care and advocating for their best interests in the court system. Her journey continued as a therapeutic case manager, working closely with children in foster care to help them feel seen, heard, and supported.
Driven by a desire to offer more individualized and healing support, Kristin transitioned into therapy, where she now works with children, teens, and their families to process trauma, build healthy relationships, and develop coping skills. She recognizes the importance of family in a child’s healing process and works collaboratively with parents to strengthen connections and promote understanding.
Kristin’s clinical approach is rooted in trauma-informed care and includes modalities such as Play Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and family therapy techniques. She creates a warm, laid-back, and humorous environment where clients feel safe and empowered to explore their experiences and goals.
Kristin believes that every day is a new opportunity to heal and grow. She is dedicated to helping each person she works with feel seen, heard, and accepted for who they truly are.
Carrie Miranda, LCSW
Carrie Miranda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of behavioral health experience working with all ages in a multitude of settings including individual outpatient counseling, hospital and community crisis centers, residential facilities, and intensive in-home services for children and families. Carrie specializes in working with older adolescents and adults with depression and mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, self-injurious behaviors, and crisis situations. She has extensive knowledge working with children and families involved with DCF and Foster care and/or adoption and also specializes in Reunification work.
Carrie utilizes a strengths-based approach, helping to enhance self-esteem and empower individuals to reach their full potential. She strives to provide a calming and supportive environment so individuals can feels comfortable and safe. She makes use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness Based Interventions.
Carrie is also trained in Positive Parenting Techniques.
Kori Kermashek, LCSW
Kori graduated with a Master in Social Work degree from Fordham University. Her professional experience includes supporting children and adults through complex trauma, adoption, adverse experiences, secondary trauma, compassion fatigue and foster care/adoption. She has advanced expertise in treating court and system involved youth and families (DCF, DMHAS, Juvenile Justice, Parole/Probation).
Kori is an expert witness through State of CT Juvenile Court with experience with highly complex family and juvenile court cases. She is committed to providing a healing space for treatment to diverse children, indiidual and families and specifically focuses on first responders, child welfare workers, and law enforcement.
Kathleen Turner, LCSW
Kathleen Turner is a licensed clinical social worker with experience in mental health and direct care services. She completed her Bachelors of Arts in Art History and International Studies at
the University of South Carolina-Columbia, her Master of Social Work at Fordham University, and her Master of Public Health at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
Kathleen has over eight years of experience with case management and clinical care coordination for individuals with severely mental illness living in community settings. She is currently an
Intensive Care Manager with the DMHAS - Mental Health Waiver, and has worked extensively in New Haven, Waterbury, and Danbury regions. At CT Kids Matter, she works with adolescents, young adults, and families. In her clinical work, Katheen utilizes systems theory, the person-in-environment perspective,
and cultural competency to help her clients build upon their strengths, as they work towards their individual goals.
Kathleen is Interested in art, marathoning, and the mind body connection. She is also on the
Bridgeport Public Library board.
Karen Mayo, LCSW
Karen received her Bachelor's degree in social work from Southern Connecticut State University where she also minored in psychology and graduated with her Master's in Clinical Social work from Fordham University. Karen has over six years clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and families, treating a myriad of psychiatric disorders. She uses a trauma informed, brain-based approach to assessing and treating clients, and educates families on the importance of attachment on relationships across the lifespan. She prefers using multi-modal therapeutic approaches and draws from Humanistic theory, attachment theory, neo-Freudian psychodynamic theory, and solution-focused therapy. Karen incorporates some interventions in sessions based on internal family systems and dialectical behavioral therapy. She recently earned her certification in Integrative Medicine through Evergreen Certifications and is in the process of becoming a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II). Karen also explores the benefits of neuro-feedback with clients who may be interested in this treatment option to address the effects of trauma.
Abigail Jacques, LCSW, RPT
Abby received her Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Connecticut (GO HUSKIES!) and her Master of Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University. Through her time working in Extended Day Treatment (EDT) and a therapeutic day school, she has experience working with children, adolescents, and their families for the past 9+ years. Abby has completed a certificate in advanced study in play therapy through Sacred Heart University, and became a registered play therapist (RPT) in December 2025, based in Child-Centered Play Therapy. Play is the easiest form of communication for children and it can even help adults!
Abby takes a strengths-based approach and believes that play at any age is important for learning about yourself, including emotions, self-esteem, and coping skills. She believes that everyone should have opportunities to express themselves and explore coping strategies with their trust people involved. A person at any age requires the support of their people/family to make progress, including having a child's family on board for playful expression and exploration of coping skills.
Eva Rosado, LMFTA
Eva is a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate with a career spanning over fifteen years of experience working across the lifespan. Eva’s extensive experience and commitment to a systemic approach makes her a valued resource in facilitating positive change for individuals, couples, and families.
Eva earned her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work and her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Central Connecticut State University. Eva’s professional experience includes child protective services and community mental health, providing therapeutic services to adults, children, couples, and families.
Eva’s qualifications and expertise include: depression/mood disorders, self-esteem and confidence building, crisis intervention, trauma, grief, substance abuse, intimate partner violence, anxiety/stress/anger management, communication skills, conflict resolution, gender identity exploration, and relationship/family issues.
Eva has provided psychotherapies utilizing the following modalities; Structural Family Systems Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness Stress Reduction.
Eva’s therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in systems theory, recognizing that individuals are profoundly influenced by their environments and relationships. Eva is passionate about working collaboratively with families, children, and adolescents to address complex challenges and promote resiliency and healing. Eva’s empathetic and non-judgmental demeanor creates a safe space for clients to explore their experiences and develop coping strategies.
Chelsea Powell, LCSW
Chelsea Powell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across a variety of settings. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Central Connecticut State University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University.
Chelsea has extensive experience working within child welfare, juvenile justice, and educational systems. Her background includes supporting students with special education needs in outplacement schools and detention facilities, where she developed a strong understanding of the complex challenges faced by individuals and families navigating systems of care.
She also has a particular passion for working with new mothers experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, and is currently pursuing certification in perinatal mental health.
Chelsea utilizes an integrative, client-centered approach to therapy, drawing from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and strengths-based practices. She is committed to meeting clients where they are, helping them identify their goals, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Joseph Baranowski, LCSW
Joe is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of dedicated experience aiding children and families navigating complex systems, including court and child welfare. With a solid foundation in strength-based, trauma-focused, and relational therapeutic approaches, Joe has consistently served to support and empower individuals experiencing complex challenges, fostering resilience and aiding growth.
Randi Wright, LCSW
Randi Wright is a licensed clinical socila worker who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, and other life challenges. She is passionate about helping clients of all ages heal from difficult experiences while building confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
Randi utilizes evidenced-based interventions including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to help clients process traumatic memories, reduce emotional distress, and develop healthier beliefs about themselves and their experiences. She believes that healing is possible when clients are provided with a safe, supportive space to explore their stories at their own pace.
When working with children, Randi incorporates play therapy techniques to help young clients express emotions, process experiences, and develop coping skills in a way that feels natural and developmentally appropriate. She understands that children often communicate through play and uses a child-centered, trauma-informed approach to foster emotional growth and healing.
Randi is committed to creating a warm, accepting therapeutic environment where clients of all ages feel understood, valued, and empowered. She works collaboratively with clients and families to identify strengths, overcome challenges, and move toward lasting emotional well-being.
Jessica Tresselt, LPC
Jess has over 17 years of experience working with children in all different capacities including adolescent residential settings, an alternative special education school, and in public schools. Throughout her career, Jess has extensive experience working with children and families in crisis and assisting with navigating systems such as child protective services, juvenile court, and special education service sand accommodations in schools. Jess is committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment where children feel heard, understood and valued. Jess is deeply passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of children and sees the importance of incorporating family dynamics into the therapeutic process. With empathy and understanding, Jess works with her client to cultivate self-awareness, foster resilience and promote personal growth. Jess incorporates mindfulness, CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) and solution-focused methods into her therapeutic approach.
Raenette Riddick, LMSW
Raenette G. Riddick, LMSW, is an experienced clinical social worker, child welfare expert, and racial justice advocate with more than 25 years of experience serving children, families, couples, and communities. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University and a Master of Social Work degree from Springfield College.
Raenette has extensive experience where her work has included child protective services, crisis intervention, family assessment, safety planning, supervision, consultation, and training within the child welfare system. She brings deep expertise in working with families impacted by substance use, mental health needs, intimate partner violence, trauma, and systemic inequities.
Recognized for her leadership in child welfare and racial justice education, Raenette is passionate about helping individuals and families heal, strengthen relationships, and move forward with purpose. She uses a client-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach when working with children, adults, couples, and families.
Paige Pratt, LCSW
Paige received her Bachelor’s degree in developmental psychology from Eastern Connecticut State University and graduated with her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Connecticut. Paige has experience working in a medical and psychiatric hospital and is currently in school. Over the past 6 years, she has had the opportunity to work with all ages which has truly made her passion for children and adolescents stronger. Paige specializes in providing a safe, nurturing environment where children, adolescents, and their families can express themselves freely. She utilizes a strengths-based approach, helping to empower individuals and enhance self-esteem. Paige will work collaboratively with the client and families to ensure their needs are being met.
Christina Gibson, LMSW
Christina has dedicated her career to working with children and families. She has expertise in working with children who have experienced complex trauma, early adverse experiences, and foster care/adoption. Christina graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the University of Saint Joseph. She completed her Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work at the University of Saint Joseph. She has over 20 years of experience working in sub-acute and group home settings for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. She has experience working with children with Reactive Attachment, Bipolar and
Depression. Christina is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and has experience facilitating DBT skills groups. She has also worked as a child protective services social worker for children and adults in the DCF and Juvenile Justice Court System. Christina believes in the therapeutic approach using the R.I.C.H. acronym to promote healing. Respect, Information, Connection, and Hope are central to her belief that relationships matter and that relationships heal people. She utilizes a trauma-centered approach in working with children and families.
Ashley Piccirillo, LCSW
Ashley is a licensed master’s social worker and has over 8 years experience working with children and adolescents of all ages. Ashley worked as an intensive in-home child and adolescent clinician for several years. As a therapist, Ashley believes in allowing clients and their families to take the lead on their treatment with gentle guidance from her when it is needed. Ashley can provide support for youth/families going through challenging times and needing a neutral and safe space to work through their thoughts and feelings. At the same time, she also utilizes her more intensive interventions for youth and families presenting with longer-term crisis and difficulties. Due to specializing working with youth, she tends to be creative in utilizing other therapy modalities such as techniques in art-based, drama, and play-based therapeutic techniques. Youth can frequently struggle expressing themselves effectively with their words, so allowing them to utilize other outlets results in gaining some insight about their thought processes and emotions while also giving them some relief of expressing their thoughts and feelings in healthy ways. Ashley looks forward to supporting children and families to achieving their goals.