Skip to main content

Tara Pavone, LMHC

Staff Therapist
Languages
English
SPECIALTIES
Talk Therapy

Education and training

  • Long Island University Master of Science (MS)

Get to know

Tara Pavone, LMHC

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.

Get matched with a clinician like this one

Ready to book your first appointment? Take our 10-minute assessment. We’ll match you with a clinician who meets your needs, has availability, and takes your insurance.

Get started
More Clinicians

Kia Morgan, LCSW

Staff Therapist

Kia Morgan, LCSW, earned social work degrees from the University of Georgia and the University of South Carolina and has over 15 years of experience in the mental health field across inpatient and outpatient settings. Kia utilizes evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing to support patients in achieving meaningful and lasting change.

Kia values an in-depth exploration of each patient’s background and personal history to identify root concerns and establish specific, person-centered treatment goals. She fosters a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where patients feel heard, respected, and safe. Kia provides thoughtful feedback to help patients discover their own solutions and offers education about diagnoses to empower patients to better understand and manage daily symptoms.

Kia begins care with a comprehensive assessment that explores a patient’s history, current concerns, strengths, and goals. In collaboration with the patient, she develops an individualized treatment plan that aligns with the patient’s needs and priorities, adapting the approach as progress is made.

Joni Courtney, LCSW

Staff Therapist

Joni Courtney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides compassionate, individualized therapy to clients of all ages. Originally from Arizona, she holds a master’s degree in social work from Arizona State University and relocated to Texas three years ago. Her background includes experience as a clinical therapist and working with students experiencing homelessness in the school system. Joni creates a safe, supportive space for clients to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that foster healing and growth.

Joni believes therapy is a collaborative relationship rooted in trust, self-awareness, and growth. She values active listening, thoughtful questioning, and believes clients are the experts of their own lives. She partners with individuals to develop personalized treatment goals that align with their experiences and values, blending grace and accountability throughout the therapeutic process.

During the first session, Joni starts with brief introductions and explores the challenges the client is facing. Together, they develop goals and a treatment plan, which they continue to refine in follow-up sessions. Joni tailors her approach using techniques from multiple therapeutic models to best support each client’s unique journey.

Pamella Bess-Tabb, LCSW

Staff Therapy

Pamella Bess-Tabb is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LICSW) and Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM) with nearly a decade of experience across behavioral health, medical, educational, and community settings. She has supported adults and children navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, using a practical, trauma-informed approach that emphasizes real-world tools and growth.

Pamella takes a collaborative, down-to-earth approach. She values authenticity, respect, and tailoring care to each person’s needs. Patients can expect a supportive partner who meets them where they are, helping them feel heard, understood, and empowered.

Her methodology blends CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. Pamella focuses on executive functioning, coping strategies, and practical habits that reduce overwhelm. Through therapy and case management, she helps patients build skills that lead to sustainable change and greater confidence in managing life’s challenges.

January Webb, LPC

Staff Therapist

Madison Maynes is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. She values compassion, trust, and open communication, and believes therapy is most effective when it is collaborative and tailored to each individual’s unique needs, goals, and lived experiences.

Madison approaches therapy as a partnership, meeting clients where they are while offering guidance rooted in empathy and evidence-based care. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, while remaining flexible to ensure treatment aligns with each client’s priorities and comfort level.

Madison begins by getting to know each client’s story, concerns, and goals. Together, they develop individualized treatment plans focused on building insight, emotional resilience, and practical coping skills. Her work emphasizes meaningful, sustainable change that supports clients both in and outside of sessions.

Brittany Stef, LMHC

Staff Therapist

Brittany Stef is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). With extensive experience in education and various clinical settings, she has supported individuals and families of all ages in overcoming diverse mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self-esteem issues,   and significant life changes.

Brittany is passionate about therapy and employs empowerment-driven, holistic approaches. Her techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.

Kierra Rayford, LPC

Staff Therapist

Kierra is a licensed mental health therapist and received her BS in Criminal Justice Leadership from Urbana University and M.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. Kierra has 20 years of experience working in the field of social services, and 7 years of experience as a licensed clinician.

Kierra has maintained positions in a wide array of environments including corrections, juvenile detention, CPS, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and in-home/community-based settings. Kierra has experience servicing adolescents, adults, and the elderly populations.

Kierra understands how intimidating therapy can be and commends you for taking the first step towards enhancing your life. Kierra asks that you are patient with yourself as you are embarking down a new path and reward yourself with gratitude as you reach new milestones in your life.

Kierra utilizes a holistic approach and provides talk therapy through the use of multiple treatment modalities including but not limited to, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Supportive therapy, and DBT techniques. Kierra is a Christian and may apply Christianity based principles to support your preferences and unique circumstances.

Your success in therapy is contingent upon your progress and commitment to attend and participate in sessions, as well as being open minded and willing to facilitate change from your past behaviors. In working together, Kierra will initiate the best treatment regimen designed for you and provide ongoing support for all your treatment needs.

Thank you for investing in your happiness, and Congratulations on taking the first steps to create a better you!!

Ready to get matched?

Start our short assessment
Specialties
Talk Therapy
States
New York
Languages
English
Takes insurance
Virtual visits
years experience