PHCS Network Therapists in Independence, OH

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Supervisor (LPCC-S) and I have been practicing mental health counseling for over 10 years. I started my career in community mental health, working with people living with severe and persistent mental illness, dual diagnoses, trauma, and homelessness. I came to LifeStance in 2018 and I love the work that I do with clients, helping them to overcome the obstacles and challenges that life presents, as well as exploring transitions, meaning, and value. My preferred style of working with clients is person-centered, collaborative, and holistic.

Christine Dessoffy is a licensed professional clinical counselor with supervisory designation and an independent chemical dependency counselor. She has more than 20 years of clinical experience including senior clinical director positions at community mental health centers. She also served as division manager for the Cuyahoga County Department of Justice Affairs. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees at Kent State University. She sees adolescents and adults, specializing in treatment of anxiety, depression and substance abuse disorders.

Mercedes Bryjak received her bachelor's degree in language arts and psychology from Cleveland State University. She obtained her master degree in community counseling as well as marriage and family therapy from University of Akron. Mercedes is currently pursuing certification in sex therapy. She specializes in utilizing systemic approach in conceptualization and treatment of complex needs of individuals, couples and families.

Joy Wood has nearly 15 years experience in mental health care for children, adolescents and adults. She earned her master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University and her bachelor's degree in psychology from Kent State University. She served as clinical services director for an adolescent residential treatment center in Cleveland for nearly 10 years, previously serving as a clinical supervisor. She specializes in child and adolescent services, particularly in the treatment of anger management, stress management, depression, and oppositional behaviors, as well as parenting and family therapy.

Mary McKenzie-Nason is a cum laude graduate of Muskingum University, where she received her bachelor's degree in child and family studies, and Cleveland State University, where she earned her master's degree in community/agency counseling. She previously worked at a community agency on the west side of Cleveland in both outpatient and residential treatment services, also providing support services to children and families within the Parma City School District.

Carolyn has her Masters in Counseling (MEd) from The University of Akron. She is informed by a holistic and mind-body approach of nearly 20 years of experience in holistic wellness and mind body services as well as a passion for integrative, alternative and functional approaches to overall health and well being. She is influenced by DBT, CBT, ACT, Strength, Solution, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal, Truama, and Neuroscience Informed approaches. Her style is directive, down to earth, and engaged including a review of practical and effective coping tools.

Alicia Hall has provided clinical counseling services to children, adults and families for more than five years, with more than 12 years of experience working with at-risk youth and adults. Her specialty areas are trauma, mood and anxiety issues. She has presented throughout Ohio on child and adolescent behavioral health issues including mood disorder and autism spectrum disorder. She earned her master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from John Carroll University with a 4. 0 grade point average. She sees children, adolescents and adults in the Brecksville office.

I have 23+ years experience supporting a safe place to heal for individuals, couples, families and adolescents from a variety of experiences, faiths, and situations. I have an eclectic approach due to my many years of practice counseling, running groups and teaching. My goal is to treat each person as a unique individual and to encourage their reflection to create the life that you wish. I have many areas of expertise including all types of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, anger issues, communication skills, as well as career and self esteem. I am able to also use a spiritual perspective if that speaks to you.