Meet our therapists

Education and Training

Post University-Waterbury, CT BS

Grand Canyon University-LPC

Kelly Stebbins is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years of extensive experience working in all facets of the behavioral health field. Kelly has worked directly with clients of various demographics, living with various mental health conditions and stressors. Kelly attended undergraduate school in Waterbury, CT, graduate school in Phoenix, AZ, and attended an internship in Kansas as she continued to travel as a military spouse.

Kelly has been practicing for 3 years as a counselor and focuses on mood disorders, transitional stressors, as well as LGBTQ+ and women's issues. When working with Kelly, treatment is always tailored to meet each unique individual where they are. Great thought and care will be given to treatment modalities based upon the individual’s personal vision for therapy.

Kelly uses an eclectic approach with a foundation in Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is intertwined with mindfulness and grounding stemming from her personal practices with breathwork.

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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.

Dr. TreSina E. Steger (Dr. Tre) is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) who has practiced as a mental health therapist for several years. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Mount Olive College, in NC, a Master of Science in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University, in MN, and a Doctorate in Education, in Higher Educational Leadership from Liberty University in VA. She has worked in business, outpatient mental health, non-profits, in private practice, and with the military. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Provider (BC-TMH), Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (CDBT), and Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C-TFCBT). Dr. Tre uses person-centered, solution-focused, DBT, CPT, CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, psychodynamic, and other approaches to assist clients. She strides in aiding clients work on attachment issues, relationship problems, ADHD, self-esteem, self-worth, gender identity, boundary issues, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Dr. Tre has worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds, populations, and identities and takes pride in being a LGBTQIA+ affirming, a gender-affirming, BIOPC therapist who has worked with clients who have experienced various types of traumas. Clients will find she has a conversational tone, direct, non-judgmental approach when addressing their therapeutic goals and provides a safe space for them to do their work.

Gretchen attended James Madison University for her undergraduate studies and graduate school at Virginia Commonwealth University and Boston University. She has practiced for three years in various settings, including residential facilities for children, acute care facilities, and private practice, where she successfully supported clients with neurodiversity in improving executive function, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships. Recognizing the complexities of neurodiversity beyond traditional clinical frameworks, Gretchen collaborates with medical professionals, educators, and families to create inclusive environments that foster success for individuals with neurodivergent traits.

Clients can expect to gain a deeper understanding of their thought patterns and uncover the underlying meanings behind their reactions. Through a collaborative and reflective process, they’ll develop greater self-awareness, challenge limiting beliefs, and gain clarity in their personal growth journey. This approach empowers clients to make more informed, intentional choices in their lives.

Gretchen takes a direct yet supportive approach, evident from the very first session. She integrates psychoeducation, somatic techniques to enhance body awareness, and strategic reframing to help clients uncover core beliefs that may be contributing to their challenges.

Kimberly Taylor is a Licensed Professional Counselor with an eclectic background who serves clients with a heart-centered focus. Kimberly completed her undergraduate degree in Spanish Literature and Teaching at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. Her graduate degree in Counseling is from Wayne State University in Detroit. She was employed for a combined 15 years as a Spanish language teacher and guidance counselor. Kimberly has counseled in a variety of settings, such as schools, substance use facilities, community mental health, refugee camps, private practice, telehealth and urban federally qualified health centers. Over the last 13 years, she has helped many adolescents and adults who struggle with issues related to trauma, OCD, depression, anxiety, codependency, womanhood, domestic violence, cultural identity, sexuality and post-modern work-life imbalance. Kimberly utilizes a mixture of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), ERP (Exposure Response and Prevention), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and holistic practices to create a unique healing experience for the client.

Chaniece Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist in Michigan (LCSW) and South Carolina (LISW-CP). Chaniece studied at the University of Michigan to obtain her B.A. in Gender and Health and her Master's degree in Social Work from Wayne State University. Chaniece has experience working with adolescents and adults in various practice settings including nonprofit organizations, community mental health, and outpatient agencies.

Chaniece specializes in working with individuals challenged with Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress, Relationship challenges, Life transitions, and Coping Skills.

As a therapist, Chaniece provides a personalized and evidence-based approach. She has experience utilizing Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Chaniece's approach is empowering, compassionate, collaborative, and solution focused. She will meet you where you are at and work with you at your pace.

Chaniece aims to help individuals gain a new perspective and lead them toward a future that fills them with hope and excitement!

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Dr. Cheryl Thomas' experience spans nearly two decades working with many who struggle to find their way through different life challenges. She will collaborate with you to identify and attain goals. Getting to know you is the first step and that is achieved through a variety of approaches that are grounded in family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and understanding any types of trauma that may have been experienced. Many have had trauma and what she has learned is that talking about the details of the trauma is not always helpful. It may be a component of healing, but there may be other ways to make progress. Dr. Thomas utilizes a combination of approaches to be helpful in working with clients. Some may include person-centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. She has experience in different treatment settings in Ohio and enjoys working with those who have mental health and substance use disorders. Dr. Thomas works with ages 18 and up that include mental health issues like depression, anxiety, grief, stress management, trauma, communication, and relationship issues. She enjoys seeing a client shift perspectives and report feeling more at peace as they reach their goals. Dr. Thomas completed her doctorate degree in Counselor Education & Supervision in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy in 2012.

Anne Tormos, LCPC, LPC-MHSP, believes that every person has the ability to live a happy, healthy, engaging life, but at times individuals need an objective observer to help uncover what that life looks like. She treats clients ages 15 and up struggling with a variety of challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, and life transitions. Anne is a National Board-Certified Counselor. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor � MHSP in the State of Tennessee. Anne earned a BA in Psychology from North Central College and an MS in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University. Her experience includes working at an inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient group practice, which allowed her to utilize different types of care with people from all backgrounds with many different life stressors. She also has experience working within PHP and IOP settings. Anne is trained to utilize many therapeutic techniques, including CBT and DBT.‍Anne is prepared to join you on your journey to self-fulfillment. She believes that everyone has their own story to tell, and her approach is client-centered, strength-based, and solution focused. She cherishes all client relationships and devotes her time and energy to the healing process.

Scott Tuckman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who arrives with a robust set of backgrounds across several fields of interest, with immersion among numerous cultures and diverse ways of life. He has worked in multiple capacities in a variety of settings around the U.S., ranging from correctional to educational to inner-city community-based to corporate. With an eye on what influences the ever-present connections between body and mind and emotional states, Scott works well with those struggling with mood disorders, depression, a range of anxiety disorders, relationship problems, esteem issues, adjustment concerns, emotional dysregulation, and more. While Scott is psychodynamically oriented, he blends attachment theory application, mindfulness, selections from CBT and DBT modalities, or other treatment mechanisms tailored to meet each client's needs and complement any assigned psychopharmacological undertaking. Considering it an honor to join someone on their journey, he takes a direct yet compassionate approach so as to establish a comfortable co-owned therapeutic relationship. Ultimately, he strives to help clients gain a more comprehensive understanding of how they can move themselves forward and collaboratively develop the readiness to step towards it. When goals have been met and it's time to finally part ways, Scott hopes each client's tool belt is fortified with newly acquired techniques to overcome the inevitable obstacles on the road ahead.

Kim Van Wuffen, LPC, holds the position of therapist for Talkiatry. After completing her education from Ottawa University, she has spent a majority of her work in both community mental health and private practice. Her years of experience has included working as a therapist in diverse settings. Kim Van Wuffen holds certifications as a clinical trauma specialist, sex trafficking and sexual exploitation with Arizona Trauma Institute and a brain health coach with Amen clinics. She is also an Arizona Board certified clinical supervisor. Kim has a passion for exploring the neurophysiology of trauma.

Most recently, she has been serving as a clinical supervisor for Recovery In The Pines and helps with various recovery groups. Kim Van Wuffen has a client centered approach to treating clients. She considers herself an eclectic therapist who utilizes various modalities for treating clients who suffer various diagnoses, such as EMDR, Attachment Theory, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing. Kim values incorporating mindfulness and holistic treatments into therapy. And enjoys collaborating with other providers to optimize the therapeutic process and effectiveness. She also considers herself a roots based therapist who is interested in empowering clients to discover their own healing path and not just focusing on symptoms.

Kelly Vandivert, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twenty-seven years of diverse experience in the mental health field. Her career has spanned a variety of settings, from residential facilities to outpatient community services, in-home, school, and private practice. Her passion for people and love of experience has afforded her the chance to work with people of all ages from a variety of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Kelly has been licensed since 2008, focusing much of her time since then working together with adolescents and adults regarding the treatment of mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, adjustment-related concerns and life transitions, as well as trauma and abuse. Kelly has a client-centered and comprehensive approach to therapy, drawing from a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Her approach emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship for a safe place to share and engage in self-discovery and personal growth. She values an evidence-based approach utilizing the latest research for effective treatment incorporating her experience with each individual's own values and preferences.

Michelle E. Vásquez has been a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 27 years. She has been specializing in grief work since 2012. Many of her clients are living with the loss of loved ones or experiencing other types of non-death loss, such as divorce, job loss, and other significant life changes. Her primary goal is to truly listen to your experience and help you work through it, creating a plan of action together. It is your therapy, and your active involvement is crucial. When dealing with grief, you may still be in pain and need to talk about it long after others want you to stop talking. This is when therapy can be helpful. Your grief journey is at your pace. Michelle uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, along with other approaches that help you address loss and trauma in unique ways to begin to write your healing story. She has also worked with domestic violence survivors and child abuse survivors. Michelle works with clients both in English and Spanish and has experience with immigrant populations from many countries. Michelle graduated from Our Lady of the Lake University in 1993. She is currently studying Internal Family Systems Therapy to help her provide you with new ways to address the challenges that bring you to therapy.

Jessica Vassallo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in the area of mental health. She has worked with patients of various demographics including World Trade Center responders, college students, patients with severe and persistent mental illness, dually diagnosed patients, patients who have or have had cancer, and patients with impoverished backgrounds. She received her Master's Degree at Adelphi University in 2003, became certified that year and received her license in clinical social work in 2008. Jessica has been practicing in social work for 20 years, focusing on anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She uses an eclectic approach in therapy with a foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness therapy, and supportive psychotherapy. She develops an individualized treatment plan for all patients to focus on their goals. She believes that the person is impacted by all the larger systems they are in (family, workplace, community, larger society) and is committed to providing a non-judgmental, warm, and empathetic space to help clients feel understood and comfortable exploring the roots of their issues.

Kristina Vaughan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Houston, Texas. Kristina has been a therapist for two and a half years, and an exceptional social worker for six years. Kristina received her Master's Degree from the University of Houston in 2016. Kristina helps adults of all ages and teens to heal from emotional dysregulation and self-sabotage patterns rooted in childhood trauma. Kristina specializes in Bipolar Disorder and impulse control disorders. Kristina is empathetic and direct with her clients. She uses an eclectic approach to therapy, and she works with her clients collaboratively to prioritize their greatest needs first. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Brainspotting. If you feel like you've been living in a state of being an audience member, rather than the storyteller of your own life, then look no further. Kristina is the right therapist for you.

Diana Veliz, LCSW, obtained her MSW from Fordham University. Diana has over 3 years of experience providing client-centered therapy. Her practice is sensitive to race and culture, and trauma-informed. Diana has experience working with adults, and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. She has worked in outpatient/inpatient clinics and in an educational setting supporting children with social emotional learning. Diana believes that the best approach is to work collaboratively with the client while also considering that each person's experience is individual to them. The client is an expert in their lives, and as a clinician, she is there to meet the client where they are at and begin the healing journey through non-judgment and compassion. Diana uses cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused approach, and psycho-education. She also considers the client's place in society and how culture and race can contribute to challenges. Diana takes passion in working with clients to improve self-esteem, recognize schemas, regulate emotions, and develop self-awareness.

Angel Vest is a licensed clinical/independent social worker with extensive experience working in the mental health and substance use fields. Angel has worked with patients of various populations with differing levels of need. Angel's undergraduate university, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in psychology, is located in Portsmouth, OH. Her graduate school, where she completed her Master's of Social Work with a concentration in advanced clinical practice, is located in Minneapolis, MN. Angel's internships were completed in Portsmouth, OH, and academic residencies were completed in Atlanta, GA. Angel has been treating substance use disorders since 2016 and other mental health conditions since 2019. She uses an eclectic and trauma-focused approach with a foundation in Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, accompanied by somatic interventions to enhance the mind-body connection. Angel specializes in the treatment of Insomnia Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Angel prioritizes the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative one and will work with you to address any barriers to overall health, happiness, and well-being.

Ms. Walkiewicz is a licensed professional counselor and is certified by the NBCC. She also has Certifications in Telehealth EMDR, and as a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider. Her position at Talkiatry is that of a psychotherapist who works along with a licensed psychiatrist in the states of Pennsylvania and New York. In her career of over 25 years, her areas of focus are: child/adolescents/adults. Pamela offers modalities in CBT, DBT, Trauma Focused CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Problem Solving Therapy, Psychoanalytical Therapies, and Adult ADHD. Also trained in modalities for specialty groups such as LGBTQ+. Family/couples Therapy, and Personality Disorders. Also has experience with DID, and Depersonalization. Pamela received her Undergraduate and Master's degree from Gannon University in Erie, Pa. Her majors are Political Science, and Psychology, Master's in Community Counseling. She began her career as a therapist at Sarah Reed Children's Center. She did individual therapy, family, crisis, and assessments. From there, she moved to Alabama to do administrative work and private practice. Now back in Pa. Her work in Pennsylvania and New York focuses on Outpatient Therapy as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her most recent Certifications are within the work with Telemedicine for mental health conditions. Her work in Pennsylvania and New York focuses on Outpatient Therapy as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her most recent Certifications are within the work with Telemedicine for mental health conditions.

LaTonya Washington, LICSW-S, PIP, is a trauma and couples' therapist with a Master of Social Work from the University of Alabama and advanced training in Brain spotting, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Gottman Method for couples therapy. With over 15 years of experience, she provides compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and couples navigating trauma, relationship challenges, and major life transitions.

She specializes in helping couples rebuild trust after infidelity, strengthen emotional connection, and improve communication. She also supports individuals facing anxiety, burnout, and the emotional impact of chronic illness, guiding them toward healing and resilience

New clients can expect a warm, supportive space where they feel heard and understood. LaTonya takes a collaborative approach, tailoring therapy to each client’s needs while integrating practical strategies for healing and growth. Her sessions are focused on fostering insight, building emotional resilience, and equipping clients with tools to create lasting change. Whether working with individuals or couples, her goal is to help clients navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, connection, and confidence.

Raquel Weinum is a licensed clinical social worker. Her career in the field has spanned over 20 years and includes work with adults, adolescents, and children from diverse populations and experiences. She has treated a wide range of symptoms and challenges, including but not limited to, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, difficulty with relationships, family conflicts, and loss. ‍Her style is warm and engaging. She considers the role of the therapist to be collaborative. As a therapist she aims to create a safe non-judgmental space for self-exploration, discovery, and healing. The goals in the therapeutic process may involve developing new skills to cope with emotional pain, learning to set new boundaries in relationships, or finding more meaning in life. She utilizes a wide range of approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, relational and psychodynamic approaches, and mindfulness and embodiment work. Regardless of the modality, her work is always trauma informed and strength-based. ‍Ms. Weinum received her Master's degree in Social Work from Fordham University and her BS in psychology from Brooklyn College. She has worked in varied settings including hospitals, community mental health/substance abuse clinics, and home-based crisis intervention services. She has provided individual and group psychotherapy, and has served in supervisory/administrative roles throughout her career.‍

Lea Wersan is a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience working in the mental health field. She has worked directly with clients of various demographics, living with a variety of mental health conditions. Lea attended undergraduate school in Queens, NY and graduate school in New York, NY. Lea has been practicing for 3 years as a Clinical Social Worker, focusing on anxiety disorders, trauma and life transitions. Her approach is person-centered and trauma informed, focusing on the client as a whole. Working with Lea, treatment is tailored to each individual client, as great effort is put into choosing the treatment modalities that fit the individual's personal needs. Lea uses an eclectic approach with a foundation in cognitive behavior therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, which are intertwined with mindfulness.

Kevin K. White is a licensed Mental Health Therapist, who has been working in the counseling field for over 20 years. He has continually worked with individuals and couples from all demographics and ethnic backgrounds, living with a variety of mental health conditions. Kevin attended Medaille University in Buffalo, New York for his undergraduate and graduate studies. Kevin has been practicing as a Mental Health Therapist, focusing on stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, anger management, trauma, and depression. Treatment with Kevin is tailored to building the therapeutic relationship and is customized to the individual, using person-centered treatment with the purpose of making the patient feel whole. He also focuses on issues related to abuse, intimacy, career difficulties, codependency, divorce and separation, family problems, forgiveness, infidelity, jealousy, life purpose, and men's issues, midlife crisis, and self-love. Kevin employs several therapeutic methods such as: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.

Alysha Wilbanks is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. After completing her Master's internship with Lutheran Social Services working with families, children, and adults with mental health concerns, Alysha worked with adults with addiction and mental health concerns in an inpatient detox and rehabilitation hospital. She then transitioned to working at Mayo Clinic as an outpatient psychotherapist working with all ages. Alysha has been providing psychotherapy through telehealth online since the beginning of the pandemic. Alysha specializes in working with teens, people with addiction, and people with a trauma history. Her style is laid-back and approachable when treating individuals who suffer from various diagnoses. She provides supportive psychotherapy and utilizes psychodynamic therapy skills to address the patient's current stressors and identify the root of their concern.

Dr. Kimberly Williams is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, with more than 17 years of experience in the mental health field. She holds a master's degree in mental health counseling and a doctoral degree in mental health supervision and education. Her professional experience includes working with populations of diverse demographics, varying circumstances, an array of mental health conditions and challenges, and many other unique living experiences of individuals, families, and couples. Dr. Williams has worked extensively with many presenting issues including diagnoses related to mood disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, psychoses, spectrum disorders, trauma and other challenging life changes. In order to provide culturally informed care and meet clients where they are, Dr. Williams has worked with people in many environments, including but not limited to personal homes or shelters, community settings, medical facilities, outpatient settings, and inpatient settings. Dr. Williams embraces humanistic and psychodynamic approaches to help clients acclimate to the counseling space and find the courage to explore, integrate and nurture one's true self throughout the counseling process. Additionally, Dr. Williams utilizes elements of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Systemic and Multicultural Therapies, to help clients further their growth and achieve success toward therapeutic goals.

Bracha (Brooke) Winograd is a licensed clinical social worker with comprehensive experience working in the mental health field. Brooke has worked directly with clients of various ages and demographics living with a variety of mental health conditions. Brooke completed her undergraduate degree with The College at Brockport in Upstate New York and her master's degree in social work through Nazareth University in Rochester, NY. In her work with an outpatient mental health clinic and day treatment programming, Brooke collaborated closely with psychiatric prescribers to meet clients� diagnostic and therapeutic mental health needs. Brooke has been practicing clinical social work in a variety of settings, focusing on treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health symptoms that challenge individuals on their journey to wellness. Working with Brooke is collaborative in nature, with the goal being to have the client's goals and preferences front and center throughout treatment. Brooke is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma-focused CBT, person-centered care, and motivational interviewing (MI). Brooke is passionate about her work and empowering her clients to build the skills necessary to reach their goals.

Joel Witherspoon is a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience working in various mental health settings, working directly with clients from diverse backgrounds living with a broad range of mental health conditions. Joel earned his Undergraduate degree at California State University Long Beach, Graduate School at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, and completed his internship in Raleigh, NC. Joel has been practicing for 19 years as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, focusing on mood disorders, trauma, situational adjustment disorders, and any life challenge that interferes with a client's happiness. Working with Joel, treatment is specific to the individual with the focus on modalities that are specific to each person's challenges. Joel uses an eclectic approach with a foundation in person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and trauma therapy combined with somatic interventions such as mindfulness.