Clinicians
At Village Counseling Services we are a diverse group of independent professionally licensed and board certified practitioners. To learn more about our backgrounds please read our brief biographies listed here:
Elizabeth Alberts | Charles M. Atzert | Mary Burns | Evelyn Czapla | Jennifer DiTrapani | Emma Feldhake | Sean Fitzmaurice | Laura Gever | Michala Glassman | Ashley Herr | Candace Ibrahim | Gary Levine | Janet McCulloch | Nina Narang | Joanne Pawelko | Kristina Rago | Paige Rockhill | Kaitlyn Rodgers | Carol Rush | Kathy Ryan | Melissa Slappey | Barbara Stewart | Marion Wells |
Elizabeth Alberts, MSW, LCSW
Founder
Elizabeth Alberts is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Village Counseling Services. Elizabeth brings both an informed and heart-centered voice to the nature and meaning of healing. She approaches mental health treatment with the belief that people want to lead meaningful and fulfilled lives, to cultivate what is best within them and to enhance their experiences of love, work and play.
Elizabeth works with adults challenged with mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex PTSD and relationship conflict. Elizabeth is trained and experienced across disciplines and draws on insights from not only the various areas of psychology, but also the sciences of cognition, consciousness, philosophy, social and cultural theory, integral health theories and practices, poetry, literature, the arts, and the world's spiritual and wisdom traditions.
Specific trainings and expertise include evidence-based techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a leading-edge trauma treatment in which she is certified level II trained; intensive and extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an acceptance-based cognitive behavioral therapy with mindfulness at its core; Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), which combines the ideas of cognitive therapy and meditative practices; Prolonged Exposure (PE) which utilizes education, breathing and safe real and imaginal exposure to traumatic events that are at the core of a symptom; and has completed her externship with Sue Johnson, EdD in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), an intervention based on the scientific study of adult love and bonding processes in couples, and is designed to address distress in the intimate relationships of adults.
Prior to her work as a psychotherapist, Elizabeth worked in film and theater. Her extensive travels and love of indigenous cultures inform her work today. With over 25 years of clinical practice experience, Elizabeth has provided services to a vast number of clients in her role as Director for three residential/outpatient mental health facilities. In addition, she has provided over eight years of crisis assessment and treatment to New Jersey and Pennsylvania hospital patients and was instrumental in designing and implementing a national model treatment/vocational housing project for ending chronic homelessness through employment and housing.
Elizabeth is an experienced Board Certified Clinical Supervisor and trainer of mental health professionals. In addition to her role as Director of Village Counseling Services, she provides clinical consultation and counseling to the faculty and staff of Princeton University and clinical supervision to the Professional Assistance Program of New Jersey, who provide treatment to licensed healthcare and other professionals in recovery from impairing medical conditions and illnesses.
Elizabeth is a full member of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, the National Association of Social Workers, Friends of the Institute of Noetic Sciences, the Institute of Authentic Process Healing, the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology, the Association of Transpersonal Psychology, the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Emotionally Focused Therapy Center of New Jersey and a Founding Member of the Society of Shamanic Practitioners.
Charlie M. Atzert, MSW, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Charlie M. Atzert is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Stockton University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Stockton University.
Charlie has been working in the mental health field for over 15 years in a variety of positions. Prior to becoming a therapist, Charlie worked in both adult and children residential group homes, provided case management services in the community for at-risk clients, facilitated groups at an adult partial care program, and was an assistant director at a supportive housing program. Charlie utilizes cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral techniques to help his clients improve mood regulation and counter the negative self-talk that can be a common occurrence in our daily lives. Charlie provides individual therapy for adolescents and adults and has experience providing help with depression, anxiety, anger management, grief, and communication difficulties.
Charlie utilizes his past experiences working with clients in a variety of settings to inform treatment that best fits the needs of each client.
Mary Burns, MSW, LSW
Psychotherapist
Mary is a Licensed Social Worker, with a Master of Social Work and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, both earned with honors from Stockton University. Her graduate studies focused on clinical practice and leadership, while her undergraduate work emphasized older adult populations, neuropsychology, and cultural competence. Mary holds a certification in Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from the Medical University of South Carolina.
Mary integrates a range of modalities into her practice, including traditional psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Nature-Based Therapy. She continually explores evidence-based techniques to enhance her work and empowers her clients to build tools they can use outside of therapy, such as Emotional Freedom Technique (tapping), Progressive Relaxation, Breathing techniques, and mindfulness meditation.
Mary works with clients across the lifespan. She has experience supporting individuals with a range of neurocognitive and developmental diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, and sensory processing challenges.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Mary spent 14 years working with adults, ages 18+ and their families as a licensed medical massage therapist in hospice and palliative care. Additionally, she has experience in behavioral therapy with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and brings earlier career experience in corporate Human Resources Management and Training and Development.
Mary creates a compassionate, individualized approach for each client, helping them and their families develop practical skills, emotional awareness, and strategies for self-regulation in a safe and affirming environment.
A lifelong south Jersey resident, Mary is actively involved in the community, volunteering with organizations that support youth, individuals in recovery, survivors of human trafficking, and unhoused populations.
Evelyn Czapla, MSW, LSW
Psychotherapist
Evelyn Czapla, MSW, LSW
Psychotherapist
Evelyn Czapla is a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in social work from New York University and a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University.
Evelyn employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurodivergence, trauma, grief, maladaptive relationship dynamics, and for those experiencing difficult life transitions.
Evelyn works with all ages across the life span and is fluent in both Polish and English. She offers her clients a safe, culturally sensitive, nonjudgemental, client centered therapeutic environment.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Evelyn provided comprehensive therapeutic services to adolescents and their families in a school-based youth services program in northern New Jersey. Her work included individual and family counseling, psychoeducational and support groups for adolescents, crisis intervention, and advocacy. She also gained experience as a case manager and social advocate while working as a child and family permanency social worker for the state of New Jersey.
Evelyn employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurodivergence, trauma, grief, maladaptive relationship dynamics, and for those experiencing difficult life transitions.
Evelyn works with all ages across the life span and is fluent in both Polish and English. She offers her clients a safe, culturally sensitive, nonjudgemental, client centered therapeutic environment.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Evelyn provided comprehensive therapeutic services to adolescents and their families in a school-based youth services program in northern New Jersey. Her work included individual and family counseling, psychoeducational and support groups for adolescents, crisis intervention, and advocacy. She also gained experience as a case manager and social advocate while working as a child and family permanency social worker for the state of New Jersey.
Jennifer DiTrapani, MSW, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Jennifer DiTrapani is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Virginia Tech.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Jennifer worked at The Buckeye Ranch, an agency that serves at-risk children and their families in Columbus, Ohio. Jennifer has extensive experience working with families and adolescents and is trained in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care. Having also worked in community-based programs providing individual and family therapy, Jennifer has excellent assessment and diagnostic skills which allow her to develop individualized treatment approaches for her clients.
Jennifer is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and facilitates weekly DBT Skills Training groups and is a vital part of our DBT team. In addition, she uses a strengths-based approach to therapy, empowering clients to identify their own strengths to help accomplish their treatment goals. She enjoys getting to know her clients and creating a safe and trusting environment to promote healing.
Jennifer DiTrapani, MSW, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Jennifer DiTrapani is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Virginia Tech.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Jennifer worked at The Buckeye Ranch, an agency that serves at-risk children and their families in Columbus, Ohio. Jennifer has extensive experience working with families and adolescents and is trained in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care. Having also worked in community-based programs providing individual and family therapy, Jennifer has excellent assessment and diagnostic skills which allow her to develop individualized treatment approaches for her clients.
Jennifer is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and facilitates weekly DBT Skills Training groups and is a vital part of our DBT team. In addition, she uses a strengths-based approach to therapy, empowering clients to identify their own strengths to help accomplish their treatment goals. She enjoys getting to know her clients and creating a safe and trusting environment to promote healing.
Emma Feldhake, MSW, LSW
Psychotherapist
Emma Feldhake is a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree from Rutgers University School of Social Work and a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Cognitive Science from McGill University.
Emma works with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who are experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, ADD, Autism, OCD, and self-esteem issues. She provides her clients with support, validation, and empathy during their most challenging times. Dedicated to uplifting and motivating clients towards positive change in their lives, Emma understands the unique experience that therapy offers and seeks to empower clients throughout the process. Emma utilizes an approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, guiding clients in understanding and reflecting on their own emotional experiences.
Prior to joining Village, Emma began her career in therapeutic support for children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Emma found a passion for therapeutic counseling after receiving the Yedid Nefesh Mental Health Fellowship, which brought her to upstate PA to provide mental health support for youth at a local camp. Emma went on to establish herself as an outpatient therapist in Linwood, NJ, where she worked with individuals, children, and families.
Sean Fitzmaurice, MA, LPC, NCC
Psychotherapist
Sean Fitzmaurice is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master's degree in Counselor Education, Clinical Mental Health, and Addictions from The College of New Jersey.
Sean utilizes a client-centered, non-judgmental approach to counseling and incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior informed therapy and mindfulness techniques to challenge an individual’s negative beliefs about themselves. He is highly skilled at addressing mental health needs while simultaneously addressing the difficulties that occur in daily life settings, such as home, school and work.
Sean’s clients learn to manage their intense emotions of anger, anxiety, and shame, reduce overwhelming feelings in social situations, develop the skills that enable them to read social cues, reduce food and sensory vulnerabilities, increase interests, and reduce rigid thinking patterns that make it difficult to build relationships with others. They also develop skills that assist with increasing their ability to self-advocate, regulate their emotion, develop cognitive flexibility, and access effective problem solving. In addition, Sean is an experienced facilitator of dialogues that foster a greater understanding and connection between clients and their family members or other support systems. Sean specializes in supporting clients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or have related symptoms.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Sean worked specifically with middle school and high school students in a partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient program setting. He is a member of the American Counseling Association, a National Certified Counselor and a member of Sigma Chi Iota, the International Counseling Honor Society.
Sean utilizes a client-centered, non-judgmental approach to counseling and incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior informed therapy and mindfulness techniques to challenge an individual’s negative beliefs about themselves. He is highly skilled at addressing mental health needs while simultaneously addressing the difficulties that occur in daily life settings, such as home, school and work.
Sean’s clients learn to manage their intense emotions of anger, anxiety, and shame, reduce overwhelming feelings in social situations, develop the skills that enable them to read social cues, reduce food and sensory vulnerabilities, increase interests, and reduce rigid thinking patterns that make it difficult to build relationships with others. They also develop skills that assist with increasing their ability to self-advocate, regulate their emotion, develop cognitive flexibility, and access effective problem solving. In addition, Sean is an experienced facilitator of dialogues that foster a greater understanding and connection between clients and their family members or other support systems. Sean specializes in supporting clients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or have related symptoms.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Sean worked specifically with middle school and high school students in a partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient program setting. He is a member of the American Counseling Association, a National Certified Counselor and a member of Sigma Chi Iota, the International Counseling Honor Society.
Laura K. Gever, MA, MSW, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Laura Gever is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's degree from Rutgers School of Social Work, a Master's degree in Education from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Pennsylvania.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Laura worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings and correctional institutions where she facilitated adolescent groups, provided private ADD support and research and provided community-based health and wellness counseling. She also taught sexual health education workshops to college students and provided guidance and support at the Elizabeth Blackwell Clinic in Philadelphia.
Laura believes that her ability to form trusting relationships with her clients is at the heart of her psychotherapy work. Laura also appreciates working with children, adolescents, adults and families who suffer with depression, anxiety, addiction, ADD and chronic health issues.
Michala Glassman, MA, LAC, NCC
Psychotherapist
Michala is a Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master’s Degree from Rider University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Gender and Sexuality Studies from Rider University.
Michala has experience working with clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings, partial care, intensive outpatient, private practice, detox/dual diagnosis, eating disorder treatment, and the college campus setting. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working with individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PMDD, substance use, trauma, grief, and addiction. Depending on a client’s individual needs, Michala integrates a mix of interventions including Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), intuitive eating, and mindfulness-based practices.
Michala is also a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and practices a Health at Every Size (HAES) and Anti-Diet approach, focusing on repairing and exploring her client’s relationship with food, body image, and movement. She is passionate about working with the LGBTQAI+ population by providing an inclusive and safe place for all individuals to express themselves fully and met with unconditional acceptance.
Michala facilitates empowerment in her clients, and supports them in restoring joy, meaning, self-directed healing, and inner peace in their lives. Her therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, trauma-informed, warm, authentic, and nurturing. She feels honored and grateful to be a part of her client’s therapeutic journey.
Ashley Herr, MS, LAC, NCC, CTP
Psychotherapist
Ashley Herr is a Licensed Associate Counselor with a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Rutgers University School of Health Professions, and Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Rutgers University.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Ashley worked as an outpatient therapist providing Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to youth while supporting individuals, families, and couples through a variety of emotional and relational challenges. She also served as an Employment Services Counselor with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, where she assisted individuals in obtaining and maintaining meaningful employment.
Ashley works with children, adolescents, and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, relationship difficulties, and self-esteem concerns. She approaches therapy as a collaborative and supportive process, tailoring treatment to individual unique needs and goals. Her clinical work incorporates elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Ashley has a special interest in trauma recovery and is passionate about staying current with emerging research in trauma and neuroscience. She is dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment where clients can build insight, foster resilience, and move toward meaningful and lasting growth.
Candace Ibrahim, APN, PMHNP-C
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Candace Ibrahim is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from Wilkes University and a Baccalaureate degree from University of Delaware.
Candace has 23 years of nursing experience, including medical/surgical, pediatric, maternal/newborn, neonatal intensive care unit and mental health nursing. Candace was trained at Penn Medicine Behavioral Health and currently works there in their acute partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient program. She works with men, women and young adults at Penn Medicine Princeton House, providing care in multiple tracks such as psychiatric, emotional regulation, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), trauma, and addiction.
Candace believes in working together with the client to help them live their best life possible. She counts on her many years of working with patients in diverse settings to assimilate a course of care that best meets each client’s unique needs.
Gary Levine, MSW, LPC, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Gary Levine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Professional Counselor. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rutgers University, as well as a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University-Camden.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Gary worked as a vocational rehabilitation counselor and managing the vocational rehabilitation unit at Harbor House in Patterson, NJ. He also provided emergency mental health services at St. Mary’s Hospital, as well as crisis intervention services to youth and their families, during his time as part of Helene Fuld Hospital’s crisis team in their startup program, Youth Emergency Services (YES).
Gary has 30 years of experience at the Poplar Guidance Clinic, a satellite program of John F. Kennedy CMHC, located in north central Philadelphia, during which he became skilled at implementing evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to a clinically and ethnically diverse clientele. Gary also provided supportive mental health services to Health Center #6, the city health center where the Poplar Clinic was housed, offering assessments, recommendations and referrals for medical patients. Additionally, Gary worked at the Comprehensive Psychological and Wellness Center in Forked River, NJ.
Gary continues to use evidence-based approaches in therapy with children, adults, couples and families. Gary offers a collaborative approach to therapy, recognizing the client’s expertise regarding themselves. In a safe and supportive environment, Gary encourages his clients to achieve their potential through effective skill building, while respecting the strengths each client brings to the relationship.
Janet McCulloch, MSW, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Janet McCulloch is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Master’s degree from Rutgers University in Clinical Social Work with a minor in Addiction Studies.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Janet worked for the Hunterdon Hospital Hospice Program. She is a Certified Grief and Loss Specialist and provided comprehensive bereavement services and psychotherapy to hospice patients and their families.
Additionally, Janet worked as a primary therapist at Princeton House Behavioral Health’s partial hospital, intensive outpatient, and partial care programs. She provided individual and group psychotherapy and has expertise in working with individuals with a dual diagnosis and those who have experienced trauma and in need of crisis intervention.
Janet has trained in a variety of clinical approaches, including CBT, DBT, ACT, ARCGROW Trauma Informed Therapy, and Nurtured Heart. Janet can be heard speaking on a wide variety of mental health topics as a regularly invited guest on local radio stations. With her diverse clinical background, Janet utilizes her expertise to assist clients in reaching their therapeutic goals.
Nina Narang, MSW, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Nina Narang is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University School of Social Work and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Rutgers University.
Nina utilizes evidenced-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, integrating skills based interventions with insight-oriented work. She provides culturally competent, affirming care and thoughtfully supports individuals from diverse backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Nina worked with adults and adolescents in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs at Penn Medicine Princeton House, where she provided both individual and group therapy to address emotion regulation, trauma recovery, and addiction treatment. Having also worked in nonprofit settings with youth and families, Nina has supported the development of life skills and assisted families through the reunification process.
Nina understands how to support clients navigating complex emotional challenges, mood disorders, life transitions, and relationship concerns. She takes a holistic, trauma-informed, and mindfulness-based approach working collaboratively with clients to support them in reaching their goals. She strives to create an inclusive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel understood, respected, and encouraged to grow with confidence.
Joanne Pawelko, MS, LPC, NCC
Psychotherapist
Joanne Pawelko is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University's Harold Abel School of Social and Behavioral Sciences and a Master's degree in Literature from DePaul University. She joined Village Counseling Services in 2011.
Joanne is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and facilitates weekly DBT skills training groups as part of the DBT treatment team. Joanne's treatment emphasis is on the role of mindfulness and its use in the treatment of depression, anxiety and associated disorders in children, adolescents and adults.
Joanne is trained in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), which combines the ideas of cognitive therapy and meditative practices in a way that helps prevent depression relapse and lessen anxiety. She facilitates MBCT as well as the weekly Mindfulness Meditation Practice Group.
She has additional training in Polyvagal Theory, play therapy, ADHD/ADD, meditation and Sandtray Therapy, which helps integrate memories, emotions and traumas hidden in the unconscious mind.
Joanne began working with individuals and families in 2009 at All Access Mental Health. She has advanced training and experience working with families who find themselves in the supportive care-taking role of a family member suffering with mental illness, including children (and adult children) of parents with mental illness. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, a National Certified Counselor and a member of Sigma Chi Iota, the International Counseling Honor Society.
Kristina Rago, MSW, LCSW, CEC
Director
Kristina Rago is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Director of Village Counseling Services. She brings over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families to her clinical practice.
Kristina is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and serves as a vital member of the team in her role as Co-Coordinator of our DBT Program at Village Counseling Services. She facilitates DBT Skills groups and partners with individuals and families to build on their strengths, enhance coping skills, foster healthy relationships, and improve overall quality of life.
Kristina also has over 6 years of experience as a teacher in both private and public education and has worked in local and state government as a Program Coordinator. As a Certified Life Coach, she helps individuals reach their potential to achieve personal, academic, and career goals.
She specializes in helping adults and adolescents suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and out-of-control emotions. She is also skilled at helping youth and their families open the lines of communication and improve family dynamics.
Kristina integrates her lifelong training and experience with mindfulness-based interventions to support clients. She has been trained in Mindfulness trained in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), which combines the ideas of cognitive therapy and meditative practices and facilitates weekly MBCT groups. She has also completed her externship with Sue Johnson, EdD in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), an intervention based on the scientific study of adult love and bonding processes in couples, designed to address distress in the intimate relationships of adults.
Kristina graduated from Rutgers University Graduate School of Social Work with a Master's degree in Social Work. Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Kristina worked for Isles, an award winning, non-profit, community development and environmental organization, founded by the students and faculty of Princeton University, with a mission to foster self-reliant families in healthy, sustainable communities. She also holds a TESOL certification (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and is experienced in teaching English as a Second Language to adults, children and families in public schools and private organizations.
Paige Rockhill, MEd, LAC
Psychotherapist
Paige Rockhill is a Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling from Lehigh University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Social Justice from The College of New Jersey.
Paige works with individuals across the lifespan who struggle with anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, PTSD, and she utilizes neuro-affirming approaches when appropriate.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Paige gained experience working with children, families, and adults with diverse sexual orientations, racial, socioeconomic, and religious identities in a community mental health setting.
As an integrative therapist, Paige incorporates aspects of several different therapeutic approaches, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Somatic Therapy.
Paige excels at working collaboratively with her clients towards their treatment goals in a safe, understanding and nonjudgmental environment, while they learn valuable skills to improve their mental health.
Kaitlyn Rodgers, MA, LPC, NCC
Psychotherapist
Kaitlyn Rodgers is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. Kaitlyn received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Pennsylvania Western University, and her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from York College of Pennsylvania. While receiving her master’s degree, Kaitlyn was inducted into Chi Sigma Iota, the International Counseling Honor Society. She is also a member of the American Counseling Association.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Kaitlyn was a Cognitive Re-Training Specialist for clients with Traumatic Brain Injuries and spinal cord injuries. She completed her internship in intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs and has experience as a Case Manager and Group Facilitator for a Partial Care program.
Kaitlyn enjoys working with a wide range of clients including individuals, couples, and families. Her approach to counseling is eclectic; she tailors client sessions to fit the needs, values, and beliefs of the clients she is working with. Kaitlyn is trained in CBT, DBT, Gestalt therapy, Person-Centered therapy, and group therapy. Using a non-judgmental and comprehensive approach, Kaitlyn guides clients through their personalized journey and provides motivation to reach their goals. She enjoys implementing mindfulness and skill-building to achieve the outcomes clients seek.
Carol Rush, MA, LAC
Psychotherapist
Carol earned her Master’s Degree in Counseling from Rowan University and has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate emotional, behavioral, social, and academic challenges with compassion, insight and understanding.
Prior to joining Village, Carol worked as a certified special education teacher before retiring as a school counselor after more than 30 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and families in both educational and counseling settings.
Throughout her career, Carol has worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, social difficulties, and communication challenges. She provides a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves, building confidence, and developing healthier coping skills. Carol recognizes that every individual’s each client’s personal growth and emotional well-being.
Carol incorporates a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and traditional psychotherapy. Her collaborative approach focuses on helping clients recognize and change negative thought patterns, improve emotional regulation, strengthen communication skills, and develop positive strategies for managing life’s challenges. Carol values supporting clients as they build resilience, increase self-awareness, and gain the tools needed to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Kathy Ryan, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Supervisor
Kathy Ryan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her Master’s degree from West Virginia University, with degrees in Research and Clinical Psychology. Kathy has strong and results-oriented supervisory skills, and extensive clinical experience with over 25 years in practice as a psychotherapist working with adolescents, adults, families and couples.
Kathy provides clinical supervision and consultation for the therapists as part of the support services provided by Village Counseling Services. She is an experienced, Board Certified Clinical Supervisor for mental health professionals, and a Certified Direct Practice Supervisor for student interns. Prior to providing consulting at Village Counseling Services, she was a Direct Practice Supervisor of master’s level students for New York University, Monmouth University and Rutgers University, and an Adjunct Field Instructor for Rutgers University School of Social Work.
Kathy draws on many years of experience and advanced training in multiple, varied therapeutic orientations to encourage the development of professional confidence and competence, and to ensure high standards of professional practice.
In addition to her work as a clinical supervisor, Kathy maintains a private practice in Pennington, NJ and has advanced training and experience as a certified Level II Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist for the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma recovery, and a Certified Imago Relationship therapist for working with couples and families. She is an active leader and member of various peer supervision groups for advanced mental health clinicians. She is a full member of the National Association of Social Workers, and former chair of the Mercer County Unit of the New Jersey Chapter.
Melissa Slappey, MSW, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Melissa Slappey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Loyola University Maryland.
Melissa believes in a client-centered approach, based on empathy, support, non-judgement and client self-determination. She aims to hold the space for her clients while empowering them to make positive changes in their lives. Melissa helps facilitate transformation through assisting clients in improving their self-esteem, emotion regulation and communication patterns, as well as challenging cognitive distortions and enhancing their strengths. Melissa holds an emphasis on a holistic view and encourages clients to make changes in all areas of mind, body and environment. Melissa builds strong alliances with her clients, tailoring an intervention approach specific to each client and is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and facilitates weekly DBT Skills Training groups as part of our DBT program.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Melissa worked with a diverse selection of clients in a variety of programs. Most recently, Melissa worked with adolescents in a partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient setting. She worked to help stabilize and promote recovery through providing coping skills and improving communication within their families. Melissa also has experience working with youth and families in crisis in mobile response, where she gained a calm and empowering approach in dealing with crisis situations. Since working with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, Melissa uses a trauma-informed approach in her practice.
Barbara Stewart, MSW, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Barbara Stewart is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who brings multiple experiences as a multi- dimensional educator and psychotherapist. She supports individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families, adults with depression, anxiety, cancer, and stroke complications. Her passion is helping teens and their families transition through the myriad of challenges in adulthood.
She received a BA in Early Childhood and an MA in Business from Webster University in St. Louis. Barbara continued graduate education at Saint Louis University obtaining an MSW. Barbara's early training includes courses taught at the Devereau Schools and McGill University.
Barbara's work experiences include founding a non-profit early childhood program where she was Executive Director for twelve years. She was then recruited to serve as Deputy Director of Missouri's Department of Mental Health to assist in developing a program that would provide ABA services statewide to all families. Additionally, she worked as a Psychotherapist in private practice and developed and facilitated support groups for an agency.
Her therapeutic approaches include Dialectical Behavior-informed Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
She believes in the change process and adapts her approach for each client's individual needs.
Marion Wells, MA, LAC, NCC, MLS
Psychotherapist
Marion Wells is a Licensed Associate Counselor who earned her master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rider University.
Prior to joining Village Counseling Services, Marion worked in intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, as well as in nonprofit settings. She has supported adolescents, young adults, and adults across a range of mental health needs, with a special interest in grief, loss, and life transitions.
Marion uses a client-centered approach and is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their challenges and building resilience. Using evidence-based approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness, Marion helps clients develop effective coping strategies and improve emotional regulation. She works collaboratively with clients to identify their strengths and build skills that support meaningful change. Her value of the therapeutic relationship empowers clients to achieve their personal goals and enhance their overall well-being.
Marion is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and is a member of the American Counseling Association, the New Jersey Counseling Association, and Chi Sigma Iota, the International Counseling Honor Society.