Tara Merchant, LMHC

Dawn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She has over 18 years of experience in the field of mental health including Outpatient, Community Mental Health and Assertive Community Treatment. Dawn works with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and PTSD using an eclectic approach to suit your individual needs. Other modalities used are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Positive Psychology. Dawn is easy to talk to and her number one priority is to help provide a safe, open, non-judgmental place to share your personal experiences. She focuses on providing the skills to help manage your symptoms while working in tandem with your psychiatrist to provide the best outcome for you. Dawn received her Master of Social Work degree at Eastern Michigan University and is Certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional. While in Michigan, Dawn worked extensively with the Community Mental Health. Initially, she worked as an advocate working with clients who were diagnosed with a serious and persistent mental illness or with a dual diagnosis. She facilitated psychoeducation groups, provided crisis intervention and case management services. At Henry Ford Allegiance Health, Dawn played an integral role in implementing the integration between physical and mental health. Combining a Psychiatric Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic with a Primary Care Practice utilizing General Medical Education Resident Psychiatrists. Moving on to Florida, Dawn worked at the Marion County Jail assessing suicidal risk of inmates and provided brief supportive therapy. Ultimately, Dawn began her own virtual private practice, continuing her passion of helping others find the skills to begin to live again regardless of their imperfections.

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.

Nisha Saintelus Deratus, LPC, is a proud HBCU graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a Master’s in Counseling and over eight years of experience in the mental health field. She has provided care in inpatient psychiatric hospitals, partial and intensive outpatient programs, community mental health, and private telehealth practice. Nisha supports clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, bipolar disorder, life transitions, anger management, and relationship challenges.

Nisha offers a warm, approachable, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen and supported. She believes in a collaborative approach to therapy, working alongside clients to identify the root of their struggles and develop a personalized plan for growth and healing. Her personable nature and tailored care help clients feel comfortable and empowered throughout the process.

In the first session, Nisha reviews teletherapy expectations and confidentiality, and conducts a psychosocial assessment to better understand your background and goals. Together, you’ll explore current challenges, create a vision for your future, and build a practical plan. Using CBT and ACT, she helps you develop tools and insights to apply between sessions for continued progress.

Jessica Brusgul is a LMHC with over nine years of experience working with individuals with a wide range of mental health challenges. She attended Oswego State and completed her undergraduate degree as an older, non-traditional student. She then pursued graduate school at SUNY Oswego, which she completed in 2016. During this time, Jessica has gained a great deal of experience with clients from various backgrounds who are faced with numerous life challenges. This includes anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and those in need of anger management. Jessica has also worked with those faced with substance abuse related problems, life transitions, career counseling, and parenting education. Her approach is to get to know her clients, their presenting concerns, and some history as well. Through these conversations, Jessica helps her clients feel comfortable in a non-judgmental setting and express themselves freely. Jessica also incorporates a sense of humor, when appropriate, as well as assisting people in identifying their inner strengths and skills. Jessica believes that everyone can overcome their obstacles and make positive changes for themselves. She incorporates such modalities as encouraging clients to maintain a journal and share entries during session, exercise regularly, and begin their journey towards overall wellness. Jessica has found that an eclectic approach, depending upon the needs of the individual, and the client's adherence to this between sessions, can be highly beneficial.

Monique Randle, LCSW, has been a licensed mental health therapist since 2009. She earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and holds a certification in sex therapy from the Sexual Health Alliance. Monique has training in trauma and couples therapy, including EMDR, TFCBT, PACT, Gottman, Prepare/Enrich, and SYMBIS. She has experience in outpatient and private practice settings, as well as supervising MSW interns and LCSW candidates.

Monique creates a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients to be their whole selves. She values honesty, collaboration, and open communication, blending evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, and narrative therapy with relational and mindfulness techniques. Her work is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming. She helps clients build emotional awareness, set healthy boundaries, and cultivate self-compassion, addressing both the “why” behind patterns and practical tools for change.

Monique begins by exploring each client’s story, history, and goals. Together, they create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans, regularly adjusting as needed. Sessions are collaborative, providing insight, practical tools, and emotional support to apply in real life. Progress is measured not only by symptom reduction but by increased self-awareness, emotional stability, and confidence in navigating challenges.

Beth Folks is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Certified Co-Occurring Disorder Diplomate. She has 25 years of experience helping clients recognize their inner strength. Her style of therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Beth tailors each treatment plan to fit the client's individual needs and encourages them to take an active role in every step of the journey. She strives to create a safe environment where the client feels they can speak openly. Beth most recently worked in a private practice for a psychiatrist as a psychotherapist via tele-health serving adults diagnosed with mental health issues. She has also worked in a residential setting where she supervised the care of clients with mental health and addiction issues. Bath worked closely with Psychiatrists and is familiar with most types of medications used currently. Beth obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in psychology from Ursinus College in Collegeville, PA. She then earned a Master of Science Degree at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. In addition, she obtained a post-master's certification in forensic treatment at Chestnut Hill College.