Jessica Brusgul, LMHC

Akili’s approach is centered around the individual. His goal is to help people embrace their authentic self. He believes that counseling and the therapeutic process is experiential. He has been through most of the life struggles we all have been through. Akili has also written several books - the latest of which, “Be an Anomaly”, is about the autism spectrum. Beyond his passion for helping others, Akili is passionate about his family, drawing, music, and basketball.

Akili utilizes multimedia resources, oftentimes with an emphasis on writing and creativity. He works to create a warm atmosphere of welcoming energy and connection. Therapeutic modalities used include REBT, CBT, Positive Psychology, ACT, and Gottman Method.

The tools that Akili uses are those hidden within you. He uses creative therapy and behavioral techniques to help you get where you want to be. Your collaboration is a trip that you will embark on together. Akili will help you find the best solutions to the answers you have.

Andrea Hamilton, LMHC, MBA is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience providing compassionate and effective therapeutic care to individuals, families, and groups. Throughout her career, she has worked across diverse settings, including educational institutions, foster care systems, group homes, government agencies, and healthcare organizations. This extensive background has equipped her to address a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions.

She holds a Master of Education and an MBA from Florida Atlantic University, along with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. She is CFARS Certified, and a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida. Her commitment to professional growth is evident in her numerous certifications and specialized training in ethics, trauma processing, domestic violence, and online counseling.

In addition to her clinical expertise, Andrea Hamilton has served as an adjunct professor and leader in clinical operations, further demonstrating her dedication. She is committed to delivering accessible, high-quality care tailored to the unique needs of her clients.

After graduating from the University of Northern Iowa in 2014, Kendrah worked at a non-profit organization that focused on substance abuse and mental health. She worked there from 2014-2021 initially as a substance abuse counselor and later transitioned into a Clinical Director position. Most recently, Kendrah has been serving patients in a private practice mental health therapist role. Kendrah's interests and specialties are Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Marriage and Family, Culture and Diversity, Dual Diagnosis, Meditation and Dating Violence/Abuse. She also has an interest in Self Image/Self-Esteem and Addictive Behaviors with Substance Use and Gambling.

LMHCNudedrose Guirand, also known as Rose Guirand, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York City who has been practicing since 2017. Rose has worked directly with clients of various demographics such as people with disabilities and neurodivergent people living with a variety of mental health conditions for 6 years. She graduated with a Master of Science in Education, Mental Health Counseling at Hunter College of The City University of New York. During her studies, she attended an internship at Boston Road Medical Center, Psychiatry Department in Bronx, New York. Rose's central approach to therapy is eclectic and based on the needs of each client. She frequently uses person-centered, Strength-based, and collaborative therapy. Also, she enjoys using CBT, ACT and DBT which draw upon the whole person and their intrinsic qualities and talents to forge a thriving way of life. Essentially, Rose likes to empower clients to find their passion and set their goals not only to survive but also to thrive in life. Rose enjoys helping people on their journey and sees the rewards of clients winning themselves back. Rose's work as a therapist comes from the heart and holistic space, and being there for her clients truthfully and inspiring them to become the expert of their lives.

Regina Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across outpatient, group, individual, and family therapy settings. Regina is passionate about supporting clients of all ages in improving their mental health and building the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges.

Regina values creating a supportive and welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable sharing openly and honestly. She understands that therapy is most effective when clients feel safe, respected, and empowered to explore their thoughts and experiences. Her approach is compassionate and collaborative, with a focus on ensuring that each session meets the client’s needs and goals.

Regina begins sessions by gaining an understanding of each client’s history and current concerns. Together, she and her clients establish weekly goals and create individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific struggles. Her process emphasizes collaboration, ongoing support, and practical strategies that can be applied both inside and outside of therapy to foster meaningful growth and resilience.

Tara Merchant is a person-centered, nonjudgmental, relationship-based LMHC (licensed mental health counselor) who recognizes the intrinsic value of all people and holds positive regard for all her clients. Tara views counseling as a collaborative effort that provides psychoeducation and coping skills for the obstacles with which clients may be struggling, and clients provide insights as experts on themselves. She believes that all thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and have valid underlying factors. Tara seeks to help clients connect the dots, from both past and present, to have a greater understanding of themselves and their environments. She also fosters a safe space for clients to identify and embrace their feelings toward emotional catharsis. Tara received her Bachelor's Degree from Purchase College, State University of NY, and her Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University. She has an eclectic style that utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and psychodynamic modality. Tara aims to uphold cultural humility for ongoing learning and awareness that supports racial and social equity. She is experienced in working with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and child development. Tara is a big proponent of self-care and encourages you to find whatever it is that fills your cup. She, for example, loves to watch TV and sing in her spare time.