Meet our therapists

Penny Clark is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who earned her Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey in 2004. Penny also completed a one-year training to become a Certified Health Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York in 2017. Penny has more than 20 years of counseling experience and has worked with individuals, couples and families, beginning by working with 9/11 displaced workers and recovery workers, including police, firemen and EMTs, and then Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy families, after which she worked with bereaved military families, homeless veterans, and other homeless men. Penny has done individual, couples, career and relationship counseling. Penny has worked in various levels of care including inpatient, outpatient, intensive outpatient and partial care programs. Penny has answered the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 800-273-TALK, has worked in a psychiatrist’s office, and in her own private practice. Penny also worked at a drug and alcohol detox and rehabilitation program.  Penny has worked with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, health and medical challenges, substance abuse, and the specific challenges that seniors face.

Penny provides a safe, therapeutic environment in which clients can share and process their thoughts and feelings, gain insight, and set and reach realistic and achievable goals. Penny’s primary goal is to develop a trusting relationship with her clients and helping them to improve their lives.

Penny uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT,) Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychoeducation while working with clients. Penny enjoys assisting clients in determining where they are and where they would like to be, the steps they need to take to get there, and in identifying and overcoming any obstacles that may be in their way.

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Leah E. Clary is a Licensed Professional counselor at Talkiatry. She has years of experience working with individuals of all ages from childhood to older adults. Leah E. Clary utilizes an eclectic counseling style. She understands that each and every person is unique and has individual needs, and is willing to adapt to what would benefit the individual. Leah believes that coordinating with all providers is important to achieving successful therapeutic experiences for the length of the engagement. After receiving her master's degree from Liberty University, Leah participated in an internship in Philadelphia working with first responders for crisis debriefing. While participating in this program, Leah also actively worked as an older adult protective services investigator within the city limits. In order to achieve her goal of becoming an LPC, Leah began working with families in a community-based program focusing on relational components. In this program, Leah worked with therapists of different backgrounds, building on her knowledge of communication techniques and team-based therapy, and even training new team members as needed. Throughout her professional career, Leah has worked with individuals with various diagnosed and undiagnosed conditions and adapted to their individual needs. Her passion is to assist the underserved demographic of individuals working through infertility issues and processing the idea of adoption.

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.

Brittney is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of New York. She attended SUNY Buffalo where she obtained a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Education with a Certificate of Advanced Study in School Counseling and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Mental Health Counseling. Brittney started her career as a School Counselor before transitioning full-time to Mental Health Counselor. Brittney is an empathetic and open-minded clinician, striving to meet her clients where they are, build trust, and maintain a safe, non-judgmental environment. She is experienced and passionate about working with teens and adults with various forms of trauma. Additionally, Brittney utilizes SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for families impacted by anxiety and OCD to help them understand the impact these experiences have on their lives, ultimately finding the resolutions and outcomes they hope for. While EMDR therapy is her primary treatment approach for individuals, or SPACE for families, she also utilizes ACT, Parts Work, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and others.

Maria Conklin, a licensed professional counselor, graduated with a master's degree in counseling from Seton Hall University in 2006. With 15 years of experience in community mental health, Maria now specializes in Telehealth, offering compassionate care for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and grief. Drawing from her background as a registered nurse, she addresses both mental and physical issues, integrating CBT and DBT into her supportive psychotherapy practice. Maria is also NCC certified, ensuring quality care for her clients.

Christine Cook is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Prescott College. She is licensed in Arizona, Colorado, and Virginia. Christine is trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, DBT, play therapy, and holds certifications in life coaching and EAGALA. Her diverse experience includes roles as a primary, family, adventure, equine, crisis, and expressive arts therapist in both inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as private practice.

Christine is passionate about helping patients overcome life’s challenges by building on their strengths and developing healthy coping strategies. She brings a sensitive, compassionate, nonjudgmental, and genuine approach to therapy, creating a safe and accepting environment for growth and healing.

Christine tailors each session and treatment plan to a patient’s unique strengths and goals. Her respectful, empowering style integrates various therapeutic methods including solution-focused therapy, CBT, DBT, psychoeducation, IFS, and expressive arts to support personal growth and internal healing.

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Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Michelle has worked in a variety of settings including community mental health, crisis management, outpatient treatment, inpatient treatment, and the private practice setting. Michelle has experience working with patients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma symptoms. Michelle’s passion is working with women who are struggling with managing healthy coping mechanisms in the perinatal/postpartum period.

Michelle has received extensive training from the Postpartum Support International focusing on treating patients struggling with infertility, postpartum anxiety and depression, and pregnancy loss/grief. She utilizes a variety of treatment modalities ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Therapy.

Michelle’s approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and warm. She considers it an honor to walk alongside you during this difficult journey. Let’s talk to see how Michelle can best support you.

Taylor Cortez is a licensed professional counselor with extensive experience in treating diverse populations and diagnoses. She earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of West Georgia. Taylor has served as a primary therapist and assessor at Willowbrooke at Tanner inpatient facility, a primary therapist at the University of West Georgia Counseling Center, and as a primary virtual therapist at Connected Minds in Atlanta, Georgia. Using a warm and humanistic approach, Taylor creates a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore and process difficult emotions and traumas. She employs an interdisciplinary theoretical approach, customizing therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and preferences of each client. Taylor is dedicated to providing unwavering support to clients as they navigate life's challenges. Taylor is trained in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed approaches. She specializes in working with clients diagnosed with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and body dysmorphia. Committed to offering the best counseling experience possible, Taylor helps her clients heal from past experiences and flourish in the present. She approaches each client with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to their overall well-being and growth.

Sebrina Cotton is a passionate advocate for mental health and holistic well-being. With over 7 years of experience in the mental health field, she has worked with diverse populations seeking support in managing various challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/marital issues, grief/loss, and life transitions. Sebrina's approach is person-centered and collaborative. She will hold you accountable to the goals you want to accomplish through a combination of empathy, active listening, and skillful interventions. Sebrina welcomes you to a warm and safe space to bring all of who you are to each session. She will walk alongside you through your therapy journey towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life. In her time outside of sessions, Sebrina enjoys working out at the gym, teaching/practicing yoga, and traveling.

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.

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Laura Cunningham, LCSW, has over four years of experience treating eating disorders in a hospital setting. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University and is certified in Level 1 Gottman Method. Laura integrates evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), into her clinical work.

Laura’s therapeutic style is warm, personable, and conversational—like talking to a trusted friend. She creates a safe, supportive environment where patients feel heard and understood. Laura validates emotions while encouraging meaningful growth and self-discovery.

Laura begins by thoroughly exploring each client’s background and therapy goals. From there, she collaborates with the individual to develop a personalized, comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their needs, supporting long-term change and emotional well-being.

Do you feel lost, stuck or overwhelmed? Maybe you feel like you are just going through the motions. Ann-Marie helps people over the age of 13 who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, and unexpected life changes. She enjoy working with adolescents and adults including members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are motivated to enhance their mental health and be the best versions of themselves.

Together, we will build a therapeutic relationship in a trusting, non judgmental environment. She encourages clients to be involved in their treatment plans and goals to help give them the tools they need to improve their mental health.

Ann-Marie uses different evidence-based treatment modalities to help you be successful in your mental health journey. She uses a personalized treatment approach tailored to your unique needs.

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Shannon Curry has been providing mental health therapy since 2016. She received her degrees from Plattsburgh State University. Shannon has worked in a variety of settings from mental health clinics, substance use and addictions clinics, along with providing treatment in correctional facilities. Shannon helped to establish a Medication Assisted Treatment Program for a New York State County Jail. She also has experience in treating people with issues with gambling. Shannon uses an eclectic approach in treatment to provide client-centered care. The most common therapeutic styles she uses are DBT, CBT, solution focused, narrative therapy, feminist therapy, and person-centered therapy. Her primary clinical focus has been in treating adults with more serious and persistent mental illness and issues of addiction. Shannon believes in a holistic approach to therapy and supports people in identifying the more complex factors that contribute to distressing symptoms while focusing on the resiliency human beings possess. Shannon is passionate about helping people advocate and empower themselves and provides a safe place to approach any area of concern. She has the ability to provide a non-judgmental space to allow anyone to feel comfortable with disclosing any issues or concerns.

Mekayla Davila is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has been in practice for 6 years. She has experience working with many diverse populations and mental health conditions. Mekayla attended graduate school at Teachers College Columbia University where she received an M.A. and M.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling. Her education and experience span both psychology and criminal justice fields as she has always been interested in their intersectionality. In previous roles, Mekayla has worked mostly with children, adolescents, and adults of minority populations, with focuses on treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other stressor-related disorders. Mekayla strongly believes that every therapeutic interaction is unique, so she uses an eclectic approach, with foundations in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, to tailor treatment to the specific needs of each individual. Mekayla puts emphasis on the therapeutic relationship and finds it important to provide a safe and comforting environment for all.

KaShunda "Shun” Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. She received her Master of Science in Counseling at Amberton University and postgraduate studies in Professional Counseling and Development at Lamar University. Shun has worked in various settings in the mental health field including community-based counseling centers, private practice, and large group practices providing counseling services to adults, couples, and adolescents. Her professional experience has focused on mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder, persistent affective disorder), anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, self-esteem and confidence, gender identity and LGBTQIA+ concerns; relationship concerns, and life transitions. Shun's integrative therapeutic style provides an emotionally safe space that supports self-exploration, empowerment, and authenticity. Specializing in cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness; she tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. She is dedicated and passionate about assisting individuals to work through barriers to create the lives and relationships that they desire and to develop a sense of personal strength and self-acceptance. She celebrates and welcomes the diversity of all clients and strives to create an affirming, inclusive, and non-judgmental space to explore individual needs and therapeutic goals.

Dr. Leslie Davis became a psychotherapist because she believes that mental health shapes and influences various aspects of life. Mental health is considered vital! She has been a Doctor of Social Work since 2021 and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2019, with experience supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with concerns such as trauma, substance abuse, intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, marital issues, and more. She has extensive experience in various settings including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP), school settings, community-based settings, and emergency departments.‍Dr. Leslie Davis does not see her role as a therapist as needing to "save the world” or "empower” clients. Instead, she believes in working alongside clients to help them identify tools within themselves and community resources to successfully achieve their goals. The types of therapy offered include, but are not limited to, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Culturally Sensitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Multicultural Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Alongside the use of evidenced-based practices and culturally informed care, Dr. Leslie Davis has developed a proven approach for helping clients (a) identify the root cause of their challenges and (b) create a tailored plan that leads to measurable progress.

Elisabeth Davis is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with an MA, licensed in both Kentucky and Ohio. She is also a Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider. Her professional journey has been eclectic and wide-ranging, allowing her to work with a diverse range of populations and issues. She specializes in areas such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma from physical and sexual abuse, family and relationship issues, parenting problems, and LGBTQIA+ support. Additionally, she has significant experience working with the military and providing education and career counseling.

One of her main goals is to make counseling / therapy "user friendly. "  Many people are apprehensive about starting therapy, and from the first session she tries to create an atmosphere where they feel safe and supported. Maya Angelou said 'My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.' Her mission is to help you find the best way to overcome and thrive in your life.

Her counseling style is rooted in unconditional positive regard, meaning she always approaches therapy from a strength-based perspective. Her clients are treated with respect, genuine care, compassion, and concern. She will work with clients to create goals and find solutions that best suit their needs. She also considers herself a holistic counselor, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. As Plato said, 'The part can never be well unless the whole is well.'

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Susana Deltoro is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) with over a decade of experience in mental health and substance use disorders (SUD). She specializes in delivering culturally sensitive, client-centered therapy and is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve long-term stability. Susana holds a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Southwest in Hobbs, New Mexico. Over the years, she has worked in diverse settings, including private practice, employee assistance programs, and leadership roles in clinical care. As the Chief Operating Officer for a non-profit agency, she developed innovative programs, supervised multidisciplinary teams, and collaborated with community organizations to support individuals in their recovery journeys with Mental Health and substance use disorders. Susana is dedicated to creating tailored treatment plans that seamlessly integrate into her clients' daily lives. She specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness therapy, and solution-focused modalities, adhering to a humanistic, person-centered approach. Her practice emphasizes holistic care, helping clients explore their strengths and establish healthy coping mechanisms. Your well-being is Susana's priority. If you have any questions, she encourages you to reach out. While she may not have all the answers, she is committed to helping you find them. Fluent in English and Spanish, Susana excels at building trust with diverse populations. Outside of her clinical work, she enjoys facilitating workshops on stress management and self-care, reflecting her commitment to fostering resilience and well-being in her clients and the community.

Catherine is a graduate from the City University of New York (CUNY) Brooklyn College where she received her Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor experienced in working with adults that struggle with an array of different issues for the past 7 years, both in outpatient and private practice settings. Coupled with her empathic and non-judgmental attitude, she uses a person-centered approach when working with clients. She strives to meet the clients where they are at. Catherine has a passion for helping others reach their full potential, rebuild their confidence, and gain a better insight into themselves through using psychodynamic and CBT interventions. She promotes and encourages "progress over perfection."

Tami is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master's Degree in the state of NY. She has been a therapist for about 8 years and attended graduate school at night while raising two amazing children. It is important for Tami to disclose this so that you know you are never too old to chase your dreams. She loves helping people and making a difference in people's lives. She uses various tools to help. If one tool isn't right, we search for others, never giving up! Tami is solution-focused but uses different approaches when helping clients. She likes to figure out which methods work best as there isn't a one size fits all way. She is a dedicated therapist with real world experience as well as clinical experience. Clients can expect to have great tools and coping mechanisms moving forward. Clients will know what steps need to be taken on their journey and will feel confident in knowing that they have Tami's support and commitment.

Shawn Edgington, MA, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor passionate about helping clients find clarity, connection, and healing during life’s most challenging times. She offers a warm, judgment-free space where individuals can feel safe to show up authentically. Shawn values trust, open communication, and collaboration to ensure every client feels heard, respected, and supported in their journey.

Shawn specializes in anxiety, trauma, depression, parenting, women’s mental health, and neurodivergent support. She works with children, teens, adults, and families through both telehealth and in-person settings. Drawing from evidence-based methods like CBT, TF-CBT, CPT, and Motivational Interviewing, she tailors treatment to each individual’s needs, always centering compassion and clinical integrity.

Shawn begins by gaining a clear understanding of each client’s history, concerns, and goals. She collaborates to create a personalized, goal-oriented treatment plan rooted in proven therapeutic approaches. Sessions blend structure with flexibility, offering psychoeducation, coping tools, reflective conversation, and self-compassion techniques to promote meaningful progress and personal growth.

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Jonathan Edwards is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Prevention Specialist. He has previously served as the Program Director for Hub City Outreach Center and was a Crisis Counselor for Garza County Juvenile Center. He has a passion for helping individuals to take the necessary steps forward in their personal development. In session, Jonathan likes to create a judgement-free zone in order to create a safe environment in which clients can share their concerns. The approach that he uses encompasses using the skills that an individual naturally has to develop goals and solutions for their personal growth. Jonathan's approach comes from having years of experience providing drug prevention education for at-risk youth and their families in Lubbock County. Jonathan has a Master's Degree in Counselor Education from Texas Tech University. He also has a Bachelor of Arts from Lubbock Christian University. After receiving his Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Texas Tech University, Jonathan began working on his doctorate at Texas Tech University in Counselor Education. Jonathan also enjoys working with foster youth at the Texas Girls and Boys Ranch. In addition to his career and academic pursuits, Jonathan serves the community of Lubbock, Texas. He is currently the chairman for the HEARD Coalition, which is an organization that provides drug education and resources for youth and families in Lubbock County.

Avedon is an LPC with vast experience working in the mental health counseling field. Avedon has experience working with people of various backgrounds, which she believes is essential in a world of diverse communities with diverse cultures. She has 13 years of experience working with adults learning how to navigate and manage various behavioral health issues. Avedon received an undergraduate degree at Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA; and her master's degree at Hodges University in Ft. Myers, FL. Avedon has been practicing for 8 years as a licensed clinical mental health counselor, and is a firm believer in the person-centered therapy philosophy of "meeting the client where they are at.” She believes in creating a safe environment for all of her clients in order for them to feel secure in expressing their present conflicts, while at the same time gaining and learning coping skills to improve their overall daily functioning. Avedon's preferred theoretical approach with her clients is Humanistic. She believes in being a resource of support for her clients while they are navigating through interruptions that have induced disorder in their daily lives. Avedon uses an integrative therapy approach tailored to each individual's concerns with the basis of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and a variety of supportive psychotherapy techniques to aid in creating a therapeutic alliance, which leads to the client building skills to help manage emotional distress.

Erin Ellis is a licensed clinical mental health counselor with extensive experience working in the mental health field. Erin has worked directly with clients of various demographics, living with a variety of mental health conditions. Erin attended undergraduate school in Rochester, NY and graduate school in Buffalo, NY. Erin has been practicing for 3 years as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, focusing on anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and mood disorders. Working with Miranda, treatment is tailored to the individual; great effort is put into choosing the treatment modality that best fits the individual's needs. Erin uses an eclectic approach with a foundation in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy.

Racquel Ellis is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of New York with extensive experience working with the BIPOC community. She provides inclusive mental wellness services to individuals and families. Racquel has been providing mental health services to individuals and families for over a decade and has been a licensed mental health counselor for the past four years. She specializes in working with the BIPOC community and women, offering therapeutic support for mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, and other chronic challenges impacting overall well-being.