Tara Merchant, LMHC

Ray Hood is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than 19 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. He earned his Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Pace University and has worked in a variety of settings, including schools, inpatient facilities, community-based programs, hospital emergency departments, and group homes. Ray’s extensive background allows him to provide compassionate, effective care across a broad range of mental health needs.

Ray values creating a warm and supportive environment where patients feel safe to share openly without fear of judgment. He believes in empowering individuals by identifying and building upon their strengths, while encouraging healthy lifestyle habits that promote long-term stability. Ray has expertise in addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, ADHD, psychosis, and life transitions, tailoring his approach to meet each patient’s unique needs.

Ray collaborates with his clients to set clear treatment goals, ensuring that care feels personalized and effective. He integrates evidence-based practices with a strengths-focused approach, guiding individuals to recognize their resilience and develop practical tools for growth. Through consistent support and open communication, Ray helps patients build confidence, navigate challenges, and create meaningful changes in their lives.

Zaccaheaus (Zacc) Adams is a licensed clinical counselor in both Maryland and North Carolina. Zacc graduated from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with his master's in clinical mental health counseling. He has been effective in providing therapy for many presenting concerns such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem/confidence, trauma, career conflicts, and relationship issues. Zacc has extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, friends, and families. He aims to create a warm and inviting environment that will allow clients to further develop growth and empowerment within themselves. Zacc uses an integrative therapeutic approach to meet each client where they are in each session.

Whitney Cohen obtained her undergraduate degree from Monmouth University where she studied Psychology and Health Studies. Whitney earned her Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from New York University, where she gained a solid foundation in evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques. She is also a licensed clinical supervisor which has allowed her to train and mentor other aspiring social workers in the field as well as nurse practitioners and other mental health professionals. ‍Whitney has worked in a variety of settings, including education, correctional facilities, substance abuse/outpatient programs, and private practice. Her diverse experiences have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities that individuals face daily. Whitney has worked with clients of all ages, from children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and has a special passion for working with couples and families. She specializes in treating a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, ADHD, stress, family/relational problems, trauma and school avoidance.‍In her practice, Whitney utilizes a scope of therapeutic approaches, CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. These evidence-based techniques allow her to tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of each client, helping them achieve their goals and overcome obstacles.

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.

Henna, LMHC, has experience providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive care to adults and couples in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She earned a Master of Education and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Psychology, with advanced training in trauma-focused therapies, including EMDR, as well as grief and relational conflict.

Henna offers a safe, supportive environment where individuals can process deeply personal experiences without fear of judgment. Her warm, compassionate approach ensures each story feels valued and respected, fostering trust and connection from the very first session.

Henna begins by gaining a thorough understanding of a patient’s history, current concerns, and goals for therapy. She collaborates with patients to create a personalized treatment plan, integrating evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, CBT, IFS, psychoeducation, and mindfulness-based interventions to promote healing and growth.

With a lifelong commitment to helping others, Erica Boncella, LPC, began her career in Law Enforcement, focusing on Protection from Abuse cases. This experience inspired her to specialize in therapeutic practices that support healing. Symbolized by the lotus flower, her practice emphasizes resilience and transformation. Erica brings over 18 years of combined clinical and forensic experience, specializing in trauma recovery, PTSD, domestic violence, disordered eating, addiction, and support for Veterans and Law Enforcement professionals. She holds certifications as a CCTP, in Dual Disordered Eating/Trauma & Shame, and in Addictions.

Erica provides a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where clients feel understood and empowered. She treats everyone with respect and sensitivity, recognizing the courage it takes to pursue change. Her approach is individualized, helping clients cultivate healthier relationships with themselves. As she often says, “You don’t have to do it alone. I am here to support and empower you every step of the way.”

Erica begins each session with an open dialogue to understand clients’ questions and concerns. She collaboratively establishes preliminary goals, emphasizing that these may evolve naturally. She creates a safe space where clients are never pressured to discuss topics prematurely. Her practice is grounded in empathy, sensitivity, and individualized care, guiding clients toward a more fulfilling and empowered life.