Qualifications/Certifications:

Master’s Degree in Multidisciplinary Human Services /Concentration in Not-For-Profit Leadership. I am a NYS Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor- Master Counselor and am certified in Trauma Counseling. My clinical experience and organizational leadership include being responsible for overseeing multiple sites and developing programs to support healing utilizing my leadership skills, educational foundation, and wide experience for over 30 years. I have worked with those bound in addiction, struggling with mental health issues, and primary need issues.

Why Therapy?

Sometimes the burden is too much to carry or understand on our own. We need each other. When our body hurts we see medical doctors, when our mind, emotions, or spirit hurts therapists are here to aid in the healing process. There is no shame in needing help.

Fun Fact:

I love the sunny outdoors and enjoying activities from fishing and scuba diving to bow hunting, hiking to the mountaintops or watching and listening to the birds with morning coffee.

Life Verse:

Luke 1:37, “For nothing will be impossible with God.”

Counseling Specialties:
Hello! I specialize in working with children beginning at age 5 through young adults struggling with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, anger, stress, trauma, grief and loss, and adjustment struggles. I utilize modalities of treatment such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. It is my goal to educate clients about mental illnesses and teach the necessary techniques and coping skills to help clients better manage their symptoms and work toward deeper healing.

Qualifications/Certifications:
I am a NY State Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Sports Ministry from Houghton College in May 2014. I received my Master’s Degree of Social Work from The State University of New York at Buffalo in May 2018. I have been practicing in the psychotherapy field since 2018. I utilize therapy modalities of Play Therapy, Solution Focused Practice, and Motivational Interviewing. I have received certifications in Biblical Counseling, Youth Mental Health First Aid USA from the National Council for Behavioral Health, and Distance Teletherapy.

Why Therapy?
My strong desire to help and encourage people on a deep, relational level to work through their various problems has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I decided I wanted to become a counselor to help people gain healing, peace, and success through their struggles. Just as God loves us unconditionally and meets us right where we are, I seek to shine this same care toward my clients by meeting them without judgment where they are in their various situations. It is my goal and honor to help my clients find peace, healing, hope, and possibly even joy amidst the storms of life.

Fun Fact:
I have travelled to 10 countries through my experiences with the On Goal and Chicago Eagles soccer ministries, the Greater Buffalo Youth Orchestra, and the Go Ed study abroad program! Some of my favorite and most interesting places I have been to include Brazil (also where my husband is from), Rwanda, Qatar, the United Kingdom, and the European cities of Vienna, Salzburg, and Prague! I especially love going on soccer ministry trips with my friends where we use the game of soccer as a platform to share the good news of Jesus Christ!

Life Verse:
One of my favorite and encouraging passages in Scripture is Philippians 4:4-8 (NIV):

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Counseling Specialties:
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, who holds a BA in Social Work from Buffalo State College and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Medaille College. I work with couples addressing issues including conflict resolution, communication challenges, betrayal, and intimacy issues. I also work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, and self-esteem.

Qualifications/Certifications:
I work to create a safe, accepting space in the therapy room for clients to explore complex issues. I know that beginning therapy can be challenging, and for this reason I work to establish a transparent, trusting relationship with my clients. I have a client-centered approach that puts emphasis on empowering my clients to address patterns of behavior that may be ineffective or unhealthy. I draw from a variety of theories with particular emphasis on emotion focused cognitive behavioral, and solution focused interventions to help my clients open their perspectives for a healthier life.

Why Therapy?
I feel that therapy is important because therapy can help clients to gain a fresh perspective to the issue that they may be dealing with, as well as offer a better understanding of their own emotions. In time, therapy can promote one’s self-esteem, relationships, and outlook on life.

Fun Fact:
I have a puggle named Zack, and a cat named Midnight, who after 4 years are still not friends.

Life Verse:
Romans 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Counseling Specialties:
As a marriage and family therapist I provide services to couples, families ,and individual counseling services. I work with clients that have experienced a variety of concerns, including trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, domestic violence, and sexual assault. My therapeutic modalities consist of Narrative therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy, play therapy, and structural therapy. My focus is to provide clients with tools, and skills to enhance their quality of life, in a safe and accommodating environment.

Qualifications/Certifications:
I am a marriage and family therapist, LMFT, with a masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Medaille College. Additionally, I have a bachelor degree in criminal justice,and a minor in psychology from Buffalo State College. My background includes working with a diverse population from children starting from age four, adolescents, and adults. I've worked as an advocate, and counselor for survivors of domestic violence, and sexual assault.

Why Therapy?
It is my passion to assist each person to experience their full potential in life.Therapy can provide support, and guidance through the healing process. My goal is to help provide peace, comfort and hope to each client.

Fun Fact:
I have a lovely Calico cat that knows how to play fetch!

Life Verse:
The one who calls you by name is trustworthy and will thoroughly complete his works in you (1 Thessalonians 5:24)/p>

Counseling Specialties:
As a mental health clinician, I provide individual psychotherapy services to adults (18+) suffering from an array of issues from chronic stress, anxiety and depression to PTSD and spiritual confusion. The counseling services I provide are meant to aid in the psychological, emotional and spiritual growth of individuals who are suffering beyond their present ability to cope and who desire to move beyond merely coping, and to living more authentically and wholeheartedly.

Qualifications/Certifications:
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and have been practicing since 2013. I received my MSED in Community Mental Health Counseling from St. Bonaventure University along with an undergraduate degree in Psychology from The University at Buffalo. I have training and experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and Schema Therapy. I also have past training and experience working as a pastoral care assistant for a hospital chaplaincy program.

Why Therapy?
I enjoy facilitating the emotional, intellectual and behavioral journey with my clients.

Fun Facts:
I enjoy reading theological and philosophical books in my down-time or making a mess in my woodshop. You will often find me hanging out with my family eating ice cream and children's cereal, in the pool or watching "junky tv shows" at home.

Life Verse:
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We write this to make our joy complete. (1 John 1:1-4)

Qualifications/Certifications:
I am a NY state Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R). I have a B.A.in Psychology from The University of Buffalo, a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Assumption College and an MSW from Boston University. I have been a psychotherapist since 1989. My training and compassion include teens, adults, seniors, couples, and families. My therapeutic modalities are individually tailored to each client, couple, or family. My overall focus is to assess and respect the "whole"person-looking at the interplay of body, mind, and spirit.

Why Therapy?
At times we need extra support and encouragement when life throws us unexpected events and circumstances. Therapy is a pathway toward healing, compassion, and understanding that can be combined with other sources of self-care (e.g. physical fitness, leisure, sports, etc.). The decision for therapy is an investment in better overall health that is commendable.

Fun Facts:
I went to Tanzania, Africa for my first missions trip this past summer. I saw the power of God working miracles just like in the book of Acts-people who could not hear, see, or walk received complete restoration!

Life Verse:
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:6-8

Counseling Specialties:
I provide counseling services for families, children, adolescents and young adults who have experienced concerns from anxiety and depression, also adjustment issues and parenting. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, Play therapy, and other modalities that can help provide individuals resources and skills to manage emotions, change, and stress. My goal is to help clients find an abundance of life in a safe and non- judgmental space.

Qualifications/Certifications:
I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Canisius University and currently have a Limited Permit through NYS. I have a background and clinical experience working with individuals of all ages, and have compassion and patience to support those going through trials and tribulations. With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Minor in Dance, I provide a variety of modalities and interventions that can be utilized when working with clients.

Why Therapy?
We are called to be a Light in this world and to love and support one another. Therapy overall and my personal purpose and goal is to help guide and support each individual I meet to find their own meaning and purpose in life, while finding healing, joy, and peace through the struggles and trials they may face. I also want to provide emotional support and validation to those who need advocating.

Fun Facts:
I am a dance teacher and work with kids of all ages, from 2 and 3 years old to “moms” and adults. I love teaching jazz, tap, hip hop, and am currently a competition coach for our Mini team, as well as specialties and solos.

Life Verse:
Psalm 23

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil;

My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

Counseling Specialties:
As a mental health counselor, I provide psychotherapy services to people 15 years and older who are struggling managing problems. These range from things like simple life stress to more difficult burdens, such as anxiety, depression and spiritual suffering. Through the counseling process, I aim to assist clients in living a life more aligned with their values, their faith, and the goals they have for themselves. Clients who come to me for therapy can expect to be validated and affirmed, while also being challenged to work towards those things in life that are the most important.

Qualifications:
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC-P through New York State. I received my Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from The University at Buffalo along with two undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Religious Studies from Canisius College. My primary counseling modalities are Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I integrate faith into the therapy process where appropriate, and I pray to the Holy Spirit of God to transform the lives of my clients in accordance with His will.

Why Therapy?
After taking AP Psychology on a whim, I began to realize the mental health needs of those around me in a profound way. People I cared for were struggling, and I felt that I had to do something to help. This led me to choose counseling as my career, as I felt that this particular field would allow me to help others in a way that suited my strengths.

Fun Facts:
I consider myself to be a creative person, and I try to make time every day to write fiction. When I’m not counseling, I’m dreaming up a fictional world, often with Christian themes woven in. In addition to producing creative works, I love to consume them as well. This ranges from a love for and appreciation of fine art, to lighthearted overanalysis of sitcom characters.

Life Verse:
Joshua 23:14

“Today, as you see, I am going the way of all the earth. So now acknowledge with your whole heart and soul that not one of all the promises the Lord, your God, made concerning you has failed. Every one has come true for you; not one has failed.”

Job Specialties:
I have provided bookkeeping and financial services to Christian Counseling Ministries for over 5 years.

Qualifications/Certifications:
I am a Certified Public Accountant and received my certification in 1991.

Fun Fact:
I like traveling to warm, sunny places in the winter months.

Life Verse:
John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.

Qualifications/Certifications:
I have many years of experience with office managerial skills as well as habilitation. As an office manager, I’ve handled all aspects of office operations for positive and efficient business support.

I also have worked as a direct care provider to developmentally disabled adults providing life skills, implementing Individual Service Plans, and all areas of daily life development. As a Workshop Supervisor I provided vocational training in a healthy and safe environment along with logging and fulfilling outside merchandise contracts.

I am a mother of 5 amazing grown children and grandmother to 9 precious grandchildren. They are my world!

Why Therapy?
Just as we seek and require medical help for our physical well-being, we also need to nourish our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Fun Fact:
I listen to Christmas music ALL year long, It’s so positive and uplifting. I LOVE to dance and bake, especially with my grandkids.

Scripture quotes I live by:
Matthew 6:26 “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

Matthew 11: 28-30 “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your selves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

John 14:6 "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. ”

In this fast-paced and fallen world, it is easy to feel lost and unloved. Christian Counseling
Ministries provides a way to point people back to the truth. We all struggle! I have seen people
change because of CCM. People who come in broken and empty, often leave light-hearted
and full of joy. I thank God for all the counselors that are here. I see the work of the Holy Spirit in
them and I give glory to God for what they do.

Fun fact:
I'm a science geek and love to ballroom dance with my husband, Bob. I have five grown
children and soon to be, three grandchildren who are a source of great joy.

Favorite quote:
“God keeps His choicest wines in the cellar of affliction”
Charles Spurgeon

Life Verse:
One of my favorite verses is from Philippians 3:12-14

“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to
take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to
have taken hold of it, But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is
ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in
Christ Jesus.