Tara Merchant, LMHC

Donna Duggan, LMHC, earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Massachusetts and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling from Walden University. Her professional journey began in law enforcement, later leading to education and mental health advocacy. Donna’s work as a crisis advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic abuse inspired her to pursue counseling full time. Since earning her graduate degree in 2015, she has worked extensively with children, families, and adults, specializing in trauma recovery and empowerment.

Donna values open communication and believes in creating a warm, supportive environment where patients feel respected and understood. With over fifteen years of experience helping individuals heal from trauma, she views the therapeutic process as an opportunity for patients to reclaim their voices and move from “victim to survivor” on their own terms. Patients can expect empathy, collaboration, and a strong sense of safety in her care.

Donna begins each therapeutic relationship by establishing trust and safety, encouraging honest dialogue around personal and family challenges. She integrates education, reflection, and resource sharing on topics like communication and conflict resolution. Together with patients, she develops personalized short- and long-term goals rooted in their individual and cultural values, ensuring therapy supports meaningful and lasting growth.

Cherese Allen is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with adolescents, teens, and adults. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Houston and earned her master's degree from Houston Christian University. Additionally, she completed an internship at a private practice in Texas. Upon obtaining her license, she achieved certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Shame-Informed Therapy, and Eating Disorders.

With years of experience in both education and private practice, Cherese has helped individuals, couples, and families overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. Her expertise includes, but is not limited to, addressing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, career changes, and major life transitions.

Cherese employs a holistic approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. She believes that with the right tools, you can conquer many obstacles and reach your desired destination. Cherese looks forward to supporting you on your journey!

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Bel Gueron is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience supporting adolescents and adults in both residential and community settings. She specializes in culturally sensitive and trauma-informed care, helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. With a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, Bel is dedicated to fostering resilience and meaningful growth in her patients.

Bel believes that thriving begins with feeling heard, validated, and understood. She prioritizes building a safe, supportive space and a collaborative therapeutic relationship where clients feel empowered. Raised in New York City, she brings a warm, down-to-earth approach that is tailored to each individual’s needs. Bel welcomes clients from all walks of life, offering culturally sensitive care while encouraging insight, self-compassion, and personal empowerment.

Bel works collaboratively with patients to understand their concerns, explore their background, and set meaningful, individualized goals. Together, progress and growth are identified and tracked over time. She integrates evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness while centering each client’s unique story. Through a person-centered approach, Bel is committed to compassionate support, empowerment, and advocacy as clients move toward greater well-being.

Stephorna Barnes-Patterson, LCSW, brings over 15 years of experience working in community and outpatient settings with individuals across all age groups. She utilizes various treatment modalities to meet diverse needs. Stephorna earned her degree from Adelphi University School of Social Work and is a licensed clinical social worker committed to compassionate, effective care.

Stephorna offers flexible, client-focused, and culturally competent treatment. She tailors every session to meet the individual’s unique needs, creating a space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered in their healing journey.

During the initial session, Stephorna takes time to understand each patient’s history, concerns, goals, and existing strengths. She collaborates with clients to develop personalized treatment plans aimed at providing both immediate relief and long-term healing.

Meet Alex Starmer, LMHC, your friendly mental health counselor here at Talkiatry. She's not just a counselor; she's your partner on your mental health journey. Alex earned her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University in 2020 and has been in the field since January 2021, working closely with clients facing mental health and substance use challenges. Alex believes in the power of the mind-body connection, and she loves to share polyvagal exercises and mindfulness techniques to help you better understand yourself. She's always learning and growing, with ongoing training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Her go-to tools for therapy are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With her, you can expect a compassionate and comprehensive approach to your mental well-being. You're in good hands with Alex.‍

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.