Our therapists offer DBT / dialectical behavior therapy in Salem, MA

Jillian Lynch Lopes is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who specializes in working with a variety of age groups ranging from toddlers to adults. Jillian has over 4 years of direct clinical experience, from in-home therapy and outpatient therapy services in the public sector, to a residential special education school with teenage students who have severe medical/behavioral/emotional complex needs. She specializes in a substance use curriculum for teens/young adults which she utilizes in outpatient services as needed. Jillian has also worked at a camp that supported children on the ASD spectrum.

Jillian completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) from Salem State University. She is certified in the Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (A-CRA). Jillian loves engaging in family work to strengthen relationships, while also focusing on individual needs. She has also engaged in parent sessions to support caregivers in learning positive ways to support their children with varying needs. In outpatient settings, Jillian remains strengths-based and client-centered, supporting each client there they are.

Jillian seeks to build strong connections with all of her clients. She cares deeply for her clientele and strives to support them in becoming the very best version of themselves. She meets each client where they are and does not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Jillian wants her clients to advocate for what they want out of services and she will always be dedicated to meeting their needs. She believes in an eclectic approach utilizing numerous techniques and interventions to support all clients. She is task-centered and supports her clients in problem-solving around all their stressors. Jillian focuses on empowering clients to live their best lives.

Christine Burgess is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has 15 years of experience working with adolescents, young adults, middle-aged, and older who are suffering from depression, anxiety, and codependence, as well as the consequences of trauma, divorce, life transitions, and relationship troubles. 

Christine completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Westfield State University and her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Boston College. 

She utilizes mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), boundary development, and others to help the client reach a deeper understanding of themselves; gain an increased awareness around behavioral/emotional/thinking patterns; and discover connections between one’s psychosocial history and current functioning within an atmosphere of nonjudgmental acceptance. Christine embraces the uniqueness of each individual and tailors treatment with that in mind.

As a skilled therapist, Christine’s warm and empathetic demeanor, combined with humor and directness, invites her clients into a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where the client is valued and respected at all times, so as to facilitate a process of openness and transformation into improved mental health and overall wellbeing. 

My name is Sarah Murphy, and I have worked in the mental health field for three years now. I primarily work with folks who deal with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, interpersonal relationships, and self-esteem. I have a history working in both community mental health and partial hospitalization programs, helping clients build resilience and develop sustainable ways to manage stress.

I use a variety of methods in my therapy sessions, such as CBT, DBT, expressive therapies, and coherence therapy to support clients in building on their strengths and working on sustainable ways to manage life's stressors. I focus on past patterns, and how they may inform how you behave now, and work from there.

I try to bring humor and empathy to my sessions, and I fully welcome anything and everything you may bring. I am looking forward to collaborating and making therapy a space for you to freely express yourself!

I am a master’s-level counselor with 8 years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults through anxiety, depression, chronic stress, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, burnout, and major life transitions. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore difficult emotions, gain clarity, and begin creating meaningful, lasting change.

I earned my Master of Science in counseling from Salem State University. My professional training includes cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and trauma-informed care. I tailor treatment to each client’s needs, helping them build insight, emotional awareness, and practical coping skills.

You do not have to have everything figured out to begin therapy. If you are feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, that is okay. I will meet you where you are and work alongside you to strengthen resilience, reconnect with your strengths, and move toward a more fulfilling life.

Karen Lenahan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 10 years of experience. She specializes in helping those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, multicultural awareness, and crisis. Karen has always been enthralled by the enigmatic intricacies of the human mind and the emotions that define our experiences. Her unwavering aspiration to compassionately guide and support others is what set her on the path toward a career in therapy. Karen empowers clients to cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and hope on their path to healing by bringing a relaxed sense of compassion, empathy, and humor to the therapy session.

Karen has a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Lesley University. She tailors treatment to meet individual needs and concerns and uses approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, reality therapy, positive psychology, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based techniques.

Karen understands the importance of mental health and is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for her clients. She believes in the power of open communication and is here to help you on your journey towards mental well-being.

I am Kenneth Westerfield, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), working with clients in MA, with a history of experience working as a licensed clinician in NC. I am passionate about helping adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. I completed my Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Alabama.

I utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I believe that it is important to form a strong therapeutic relationship through understanding, empathy, and unconditional positive regard.

I am confident that I will be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with me today!

Timothy Gau is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts who has 15 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking support in coping with depression, anxiety, stress, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), OCD, low self-esteem, chronic stress, and more. 

He completed his Bachelor of Science in Social Psychology from the University of Rochester and received his Master of Science in Counseling and Applied Educational Psychology from Northeastern University. Timothy uses a person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral approach for all clients, offering a non-judgmental, caring, and empathic space for you to share your experiences.  

He uses humor, warmth, transparency, and compassion to build relationships and is eager to help you on your journey to achieve your therapeutic goals. Timothy is able to create a unique therapeutic relationship with each client with whom he has worked and is ready to collaborate with you on creating strategies for managing life’s challenges.

Marissa Cusick is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 3 years of experience. She has worked with adolescents and adults in public schools, shelter programs, and outpatient mental health clinics. Marissa excels in helping individuals with concerns including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, domestic abuse, homelessness, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and trauma. Marissa helps her clients learn from their past experiences and find relief through understanding, awareness, and behavior change. She uses compassion, humor, and empowerment to help clients feel more comfortable being vulnerable and expressive.

Marissa has a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regis College. She uses a blend of acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy to meet clients’ unique needs.

Marissa is passionate about helping others and understands that beginning therapy can be scary. She strives to make each session feel organic and a place where clients can vent, reflect, and relax. Reach out to schedule an appointment with Marissa today!

Eryca Swan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 2 years of experience. She specializes in guiding individuals through self-discovery and healing, helping them overcome obstacles that hinder growth while supporting those facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional or psychological challenges. Eryca is a compassionate and empathetic therapist who values building a trusting therapeutic relationship.

Eryca received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bay Path Univeristy. She utilizes evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and reality therapy to support her clients’ growth and healing.

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth, Eryca would be honored to support you in a safe and trusting space. No one has to go through it alone—Eryca works alongside her clients to help them create the balance, healing, and fulfillment they deserve. Book a session today to begin the journey toward a better you.