Our therapists offer DBT / dialectical behavior therapy in Manchester, CT

Bernadette Hernandez is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut with over 10 years of experience. Throughout her career, Bernadette has worked with individuals across all age groups, including children and adolescents, addressing a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer relationship issues, mood disturbances, and stress management issues. Her extensive background enables her to connect with each client on a deeper level, providing tailored support and guidance based on their individual challenges. Bernadette is currently focusing on working with adults who are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and stress management.

Bernadette received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University. She utilizes a blend of cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, relational, strength-based, and mindfulness-based techniques to help clients navigate their concerns and improve their mental health.

Bernadette creates a safe therapeutic space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported while navigating life’s challenges. Her approach is warm, compassionate, and client-centered, encouraging open communication, collaboration, and active participation in a safe and supportive environment. She is committed to helping clients work through their difficulties and looks forward to partnering with you to address your needs and goals.

Eshe Hamilton is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) who specializes in working with school-aged children, adolescents, and adults experiencing difficulties such as stress, anxiety, trauma, behavior issues, and inter-relational conflicts. Eshe completed her Master of Science (MS) in Counseling and Human Service at Post University.

Eshe offers an unbiased and integrative counseling approach that is supportive in helping you feel secure and empowered to create changes in your current circumstances and generate feelings of happiness. Understanding that challenges and difficulties present for us all, Eshe’s goal is to help you become inspired to create positive change and confidence in the ability to make those changes.

Hi, I am Ryan Wade, a psychiatrist board certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. I completed medical school and my Psychiatry residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School, followed by an Addiction Psychiatry fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine. Despite my training in the addiction field, I spend a large portion of my time focusing on mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. I find that I typically work most with people who want to consolidate their medication regimen or those who view medication as a tool, not solely the solution to the issues they are facing.

I attempt to meet people where they are and the level they are willing to engage with treatment as this varies significantly from person to person. I believe psychotherapy is quite powerful for most people and routinely recommend it alongside my work with clients, including any medications I would potentially prescribe. 

If you are considering seeing someone for your mental health — or even wondering if what you are feeling day-to-day is "normal" and would like an assessment — feel free to schedule an appointment. There is no pressure to start medication or to even continue in treatment if you feel that it isn't right for you. I look forward to meeting you soon!

Justyna Ferenc is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 7 years of experience in the mental health field. Justyna has worked diligently with clients facing challenges with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and substance use. She is enthusiastic about helping others on their personal journey of healing and growth. Justyna completed her Master’s in Marital and Family Therapy at Fairfield University. After graduating, she became a counselor at an intensive residential program where she worked with clients struggling with a myriad of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use.

Justyna's approach to therapy is tailored uniquely to each individual. She uses various evidence-based approaches such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, Bowenian family therapy, strategic family therapy, and structural family therapy.

Life is like a puzzle — when all the pieces are in front of you, it’s hard to see a clear picture. With Justyna's help, you will gain a better understanding and view of the way forward through collaboratively putting the pieces together.

Tavia Briscoe is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of dedicated clinical experience specializing in crisis intervention and supporting children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Throughout her career, she has provided compassionate, solution-focused counseling that empowers clients to navigate stress, trauma, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Tavia strives to create a warm and collaborative environment where every client feels heard, valued, and equipped with practical tools to promote personal growth and lasting emotional well-being.

Tavia earned her Master’s in Social Work from Springfield College. She supports individuals and families as they navigate life’s complexities, using evidence-based practices to promote healing and resilience. Tavia is dedicated to helping her clients embrace positive change and thrive.

Tavia believes in creating a warm, collaborative environment where clients feel safe, heard, and supported. Her holistic style emphasizes practical strategies to reduce stress, build confidence, and improve relationships. Tavia takes pride in guiding her clients toward lasting growth, self-discovery, and an enhanced sense of well-being in their daily lives.

Clevetta Gilliam, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, brings 40 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges, including relationship struggles, loss, stress, and trauma. She is dedicated to creating a supportive, trusting therapeutic space where clients can explore their concerns and move toward more fulfilling and meaningful lives. Clevetta empowers preteens through seniors to discover resilience and embrace positive change, encouraging growth both personally and within their relationships.

Clevetta earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She integrates psychodynamic and family systems perspectives with cognitive-behavioral strategies, incorporating holistic stress management approaches such as mindfulness, diet, and exercise to help clients build healthier coping skills.

Clevetta is passionate about serving Black, Brown, and Caucasian adolescents, survivors of domestic violence, and those healing from sexual assault. She is committed to advancing research on generational trauma and strives to provide care that fosters empowerment, healing, and hope for every client she serves.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through life’s challenges. I help clients navigate stress, relationships, and personal growth by creating a warm, collaborative space where they feel seen and supported. My approach is tailored to each person’s unique needs, focusing on building strengths, developing coping skills, and fostering resilience and lasting change.

I earned my Master’s in Counselor Education from Radford University. I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach that combines empathy, support, and practical strategies to help clients overcome barriers and build self-awareness.

It takes courage to begin therapy, and I believe everyone deserves a space to feel heard, understood, and empowered. In our work together, you can expect guidance, authenticity, and a safe space to grow at your own pace.

Crystal Thomas is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with more than 5 years of professional experience helping teens, adults, and seniors who are struggling to cope with anxiety, anger, past traumas, unprocessed grief, betrayal, rejection, resentment, depression, and more. 

Crystal obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health with a certification in Forensic Mental Health Counseling. Crystal helps clients manage their emotions and identify how particular thought patterns can lead to challenging behaviors and emotional distress. She'll meet you where you are at, emotionally and academically.

Crystal will offer her support and guidance as you begin to gain a new understanding of your life story and the courage to identify the purpose behind your pain. Life can have significance even in the unhappiest of circumstances and the inspiration for a better tomorrow often comes from discovering that meaning.

Patricia Taglialavore is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over ten years of experience. She works with adults and couples ages 18 and over. Patricia treats relationship issues, complex trauma, childhood trauma, stress, life transition issues, and mild anxiety.

Patricia earned her Master's degree in Rehabilitative Mental Health Counseling, and in sessions she uses a trauma-informed approach. She sees therapy sessions as a collaboration between herself and clients.

If you feel that Patricia could be a good fit for you as you work toward your mental health goals, she would love to meet with you and begin sessions as a team. Schedule with Patricia today!

Daniel Garel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 6 years of experience in the mental health field. He strives for excellence in helping adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families address their challenges and identify/pursue their life worth living. Daniel specializes in mental health disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, behavioral issues, relationship issues, major life transitions, and stress management.

Daniel completed his Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Fairfield University. He started his career working with adolescents in a long-term residential facility through his undergraduate career, which sparked his pursuit to work with families and couples. He then began working with clients with substance use and mental health disorders throughout his graduate school profession, where he developed his skills in supporting his clients and their goals. Daniel uses multiple treatment models, including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, structural family therapy, Bowenian family therapy, and strategic family therapy.

Everyone has their limits and everyone gets to a point in their life where they hit a wall or feel like they cannot overcome an obstacle. Daniel provides a judgment-free zone where you can feel comfortable and safe to talk about anything. He will join you as a co-explorer on your life's journey and assist with helping you make the path clearer by gaining new perspectives and techniques that suit your needs. If you are ready to put in the work, schedule an appointment with him today he will be ready and excited to work with you!

Elina Flit is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in providing diagnostic assessments and counseling to adult clients with diverse concerns including substance use, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, emotional regulation, career, interpersonal challenges, and LGBTQ+ issues.

Elina completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Southern Connecticut State University and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She is fluent in English and Russian.

Elina seeks to build an accepting and caring relationship with you. She will collaborate with you on ways to enhance your strengths and apply them toward creating positive and meaningful changes in your life. Elina will create a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs, utilizing strength-based, person-centered, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness-based, and dialectical behavioral approaches to therapy. 

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 12 years of experience providing care across outpatient, intensive outpatient, in-home, and telehealth settings. I support children, adolescents, adults, parents, families, and older adults. My background includes crisis work and treating concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, mood disorders, family conflict, autism spectrum differences, grief, addiction, and life transitions.

I earned my master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Southern Connecticut State University. My experience includes community and clinical work supporting individuals with trauma, PTSD, OCD, and conduct disorders. I use cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, play-based, creative, and therapeutic-gaming approaches.

I aim to offer a culturally sensitive, collaborative environment where you feel valued and supported. Together, we will identify your strengths, develop effective coping skills, and explore new perspectives that bring clarity and relief. My goal is to help you move toward meaningful growth and create lasting change in your daily life.

I am a licensed professional counselor associate (LPCA) with 10 years of experience supporting individuals through meaningful change and emotional growth. I specialize in helping clients explore their thoughts, feelings, and life experiences with openness and authenticity. My background includes extensive work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, including individuals with special needs and those navigating behavioral or emotional challenges. Through a compassionate and client-centered approach, I help clients recognize strengths, build resilience, and develop healthier ways of coping.

I earned my master’s degree in counseling and human services from Post University and take a holistic, integrative approach to care. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, and exposure therapy to help clients manage stress and build effective coping skills.

You deserve a safe space where you feel heard, supported, and valued. Healing takes courage, and you do not have to do it alone. Together, we will work toward clarity, confidence, and a more balanced life. I would be honored to support you as you create meaningful change and move toward the future you want.

Joseph Seele is a Licensed Professional Counselor with thirty years experience. Joe has a comprehensive understanding of mental health and substance abuse systems of care. HE received his BA from ECSU and received his MS in community mental health, specializing in clinical psychology with adults, from Trinity College of Vermont. Joseph is a Cognitive Behavioral based therapist. It is Joe's firm belief that through the use of best practice models and solution focused approaches, positive outcomes will be achieved. Strengths based perspectives allow for all talents and skills of the individual to be part of the solution. Joe's a firm believer that the key to success is a strong therapeutic relationship. He utilizes a holistic approach in developing strategies that best address client needs.

Ian Friedrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in various mental health settings. He is passionate about providing effective and competent care to support his clients in achieving their personal and clinical goals. He specializes in working with clients who struggle with traits of borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and concerns regarding sexuality and gender expression. Ian obtained his Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut.

Ian has been intensively trained in foundational DBT, DBT prolonged exposure, and DBT for couples and families. Additionally, he is passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community and using his lived experiences as a queer person to help those who also identify with the community.

Ian meets all of his clients with compassion and his genuine self to help them navigate the challenges that life presents. Ian is positive that he can guide his clients toward healthy change. He is here to support anyone looking to make positive changes for themselves, no matter what happened in their past. He is excited to start working with new clients.

Janet Scanlon is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience working with diverse populations on adjustment disorders, anxiety/depression, grief, mood/personality disorders, and parenting challenges. Janet's life experience and skills make her uniquely qualified to support clients on their wellness journey.

Janet earned a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Fairfield University. She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, in which clients adjust negative thought patterns to alter behaviors. She utilizes a person-centered philosophy and specializes in a wellness-based approach, including self-care, sleep hygiene, exercise, and meditation.

Janet truly believes in the importance of supporting others in meeting their goals. She aspires to help others identify their strengths in order to overcome life's challenges. She looks forward to hearing from you. Please contact Janet today for an appointment.

Jewell Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience supporting individuals through emotional, behavioral, and crisis-related challenges. She has worked extensively with clients experiencing severe mental health concerns, guiding them with compassion, clarity, and skill. Jewell’s collaborative, person-centered approach has consistently helped her build strong therapeutic relationships while promoting safety, resilience, and emotional well-being across diverse populations.

Jewell earned her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Mercy College. She incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and rational emotive behavioral therapy to support healing from trauma and help clients navigate emotional symptoms, strengthen coping skills, and create lasting change.

Jewell is passionate about helping clients feel seen, safe, and empowered in their healing process. She provides a warm and supportive environment for growth, focusing on building trust and developing tailored strategies to meet each individual’s needs. Her goal is to walk alongside clients as they move forward with clarity, confidence, and hope.