OUR THERAPISTS
Laura Gattuso, LPC ACS
Psychotherapist & CoOwner of Human First Counseling Services
Laura earned a Master's Degree after graduating from Centenary University in 2014. She has had extensive experience working with both adolescents and adults in various settings, including Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization Programs, Intensive Outpatient Programs, school counseling settings, group homes, and traditional outpatient settings. Laura has utilized professional therapeutic techniques to assist clients coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, personality disorders, body-image struggles, eating disorders, self-harm, self-esteem, grief/loss, and difficult life transitions. The necessity of establishing trust and respect between the counselor and client is paramount to successful therapy. Laura's main goal is, therefore, to provide a safe environment where clients can feel safe to share, learn, heal, and grow. Laura's 10 years of experience have reinforced her belief that the most effective therapy relies on providing a comfortable environment while also tailoring professional therapeutic techniques to the unique needs of each individual.
"The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you really are." -Carl Jung
Laura Gattuso, LPC ACS
Renata Rybalova, LPC ACS
Psychotherapist & CoOwner of Human First Counseling Services
Renata graduated with a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Seton Hall University in 2012 and has gained professional experience over 10 years working in various mental health settings, including partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient, intensive-in-community, and group practice outpatient settings. Renata's clients range from young adults to elderly populations, navigating challenges at every phase of life. Leading with an empathetic, strength-based approach to psychotherapy that incorporates Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Techniques with a psychodynamic approach, Renata supports her clients in finding their individual way to personal growth through life's challenges. Renata's areas of expertise include working with Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Personality Disorders, Trauma, Grief/Loss, Family System Dynamics, Complex Life Transitions through the Life Cycle, self-esteem, body image, Women's Issues, and LGBTQ.
"Even the smallest shift in perspective can bring about the greatest healing"-Joshua Kai
Renata Rybalova, LPC ACS
Katherine Lamberta, LPC
Hey, I'm Katherine!
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, which I earned in 2019. I believe in a strengths-based approach, working with you to identify and use your existing strengths to support your goals and growth. Whether you're navigating a life transition, seeking more support, or simply wanting to understand yourself on a deeper level, we can figure it out together.
I have years of experience supporting individuals of all ages, offering a compassionate and collaborative space to explore your challenges and reclaim your power.
My areas of focus include:
- Life transitions
- Relationship challenges
- Anxiety
- Advocacy support
- Narcissistic abuse recovery
- Depression
- Career and academic concerns
- Parent coaching
- Low self-esteem
- Trauma
My approach is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and clarity—helping you move through the fog and toward a life that feels more authentic, connected, and aligned.
Katherine Lamberta, LPC
Jackie Meringer, LCSW
Jackie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey. She earned her Master's degree from Fordham University School of Social Work. Jackie has 7 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds. Jackie has extensive experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families facing various challenges and needs, including depression and anxiety, behavioral and self-regulation issues (impulse control and oppositional defiance), ADD/ADHD, family conflict, and parenting difficulties. Additionally, Jackie has frequently worked with individuals who have experienced sexual, physical, and emotional trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, as well as mental health challenges. Jackie utilizes a cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and family systems approach to therapy, incorporating various interventions such as mindfulness and motivational interviewing, as well as various forms of art and play, to address and fit the unique needs of each individual client. Jackie believes that a good rapport, a strong alliance, and trust in the therapeutic relationship are the foundations that help facilitate change. Jackie approaches her work with genuine empathy and a good sense of humor, creating an enriching therapeutic experience.
"Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not." - Dr. Suess, The Lorax
Jackie Meringer, LCSW
Leia Fontana, LCSW
Leia graduated with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in 2011. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst following board certification from Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology in 2013. Leia has over 10 years of professional experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, primarily within a school setting. Collaboration with mental health professionals in various settings, including inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and traditional outpatient programs. Leia also has extensive experience in working with individuals with developmental delays and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Leia utilizes therapeutic techniques, including cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, de-escalation strategies, and behavior modification programs to assist clients in coping with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, school refusal, self-esteem issues, and adjustment to difficult life transitions. Providing a safe space and developing a strong therapeutic relationship are critical components of effective therapy. Leia is compassionate and takes on a holistic, client-centered approach. She assists clients in developing meaningful goals while providing the strategies and support to achieve them.
Leia Fontana, LCSW
Justina Welch, LPC
Justina is a New Jersey Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Counseling from Centenary University. Justina has experience working with children, teens, and young adults, treating a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, attachment and adjustment disorders, low self-esteem, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), grief/loss, and overall life stressors. Justina takes an eclectic approach to treatment, using techniques and strategies from a variety of theoretical frameworks. Justina is passionate about creating a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment for each client and is committed to empowering clients through positive and supportive services.
"Promise me you'll always remember: you're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." - Christopher Robin
Justina Welch, LPC
Nina Gonzalez, LPC
Nina is a New Jersey Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), with a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health and Addiction Counseling from Montclair State University. She has experience working in a Partial Hospitalization Program, Intensive Outpatient Program, and Co-Occurring Disorder Program. Her work has focused on helping children, adolescents and adults in both individual and group settings to increase their self-awareness and overall well-being.
Her experience has been with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, mood disorders, impulse control, anger management, life transitions, and substance use issues. Nina is focused on providing a safe, compassionate environment where individuals feel free from judgement. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered and direct, working to meet clients where they are. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic treatment approaches, including psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy informed, and mindfulness. Nina strives to help her clients feel comfortable, empowered, and heard while they make positive life changes.
Nina Gonzalez, LPC
Shannon Vicari, LPC
Shannon is a New Jersey Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Dual Master of Arts (MA) Degree in Clinical and School Counseling from Centenary University. I love working with clients who are eager to grow and confront their challenges. They might struggle with self-doubt, perfectionism, or feeling stuck. My client's goals often include enhancing self-confidence, improving relationships, or making significant life changes. Ultimately, they seek a deeper understanding of themselves and a stronger sense of purpose, motivated to step outside their comfort zone and embrace their journey toward becoming the best version of themselves.
I specialize in supporting clients through depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, grief, and difficult life transitions. My approach combines evidence-based therapies, like CBT and mindfulness, with a strong focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship.
I provide a safe space for exploring emotions and developing coping strategies. I offer trauma-informed care aimed at healing and empowerment. My goal is to help clients understand their feelings, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges toward meaningful change and growth.
Shannon Vicari, LPC
KateLynn Cohen (Patronick), LCSW
KateLynn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her Master’s degree from Rutgers University School of Social Work and a certificate in child and adolescent well-being.
KateLynn has experience in providing mental health services to individuals and families of all ages, in both outpatient and hospital settings.
KateLynn has experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families facing diverse challenges and needs. These include depression and anxiety, parenting difficulties, life transitions, cancer, and low self-esteem. KateLynn uses an integrative approach to client care, with a strong emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and strength-based approaches.
KateLynn recognizes that each client has unique and individual needs. She specializes in helping clients identify and develop long-term success through empathy, encouragement, and most importantly with a strong therapeutic bond.
KateLynn strives to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to grow and thrive both inside and out.
“Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” Brene Brown.
KateLynn Cohen (Patronick), LCSW
Kim Klimek, LCSW
I work with individuals age 18 and up seeking support for a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, and more. I’m also passionate about understanding and supporting the intersection of autism and ADHD (commonly referred to as AuDHD) in late-diagnosed and suspecting adults.
I utilize an eclectic style of therapy, incorporating concepts and techniques from multiple modalities for a holistic approach tailored to each individual's needs and goals. This includes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, existential-humanistic therapy and somatic therapies, among others. I also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which "uses guided 'bilateral stimulation' such as side-to-side eye movements to help the brain safely reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and vividness" (emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy).
I see therapy as a journey in getting to know yourself, exploring challenges and creating meaning with empathy and curiosity. Your life experience is unique to you, and so is what you will find helpful. You’re the expert. I aspire to meet you as a partner and guide in a safe, open space. By assessing barriers, new perspectives,
opportunities and strategies, my hope is to support you in feeling empowered to discover and nurture your strengths while building awareness and skills to navigate challenges.
I obtained a Master of Social Work degree and a Graduate Certificate of Clinical Social Work from the University of Kentucky. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Equine Studies with a minor in communications from Centenary University. I am also certified as a facilitator of the HEAL (Human-Equine Alliance for Learning) model of equine-facilitated learning and psychotherapy.
Jennifer Torres, LAC
change.
Kelly Venezia Crilly, LPC
I believe that the most powerful part of healing is a warm, trusting relationship where you feel seen and heard. This connection is the foundation we build together to heal from life's challenges and traumas, big or small. I enjoy working with teens and adults who are navigating big life transitions and decisions, “anxiety,” OCD, family issues, and the effects of trauma. I have a special interest in helping individuals move past perfectionism. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming counselor, and I love integrating creativity and spirituality into our work.
Before moving into the collective healing space of private practice, I spent five wonderful years as a high school counselor. My approach is integrative, meaning I draw from effective, evidence-based methods like Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I also deeply value the mind-body connection, and we will use mindfulness-based and psycho-somatic approaches to help you feel grounded in the present, gain clarity, and build the future you hope for. As a career counselor, I see decisions about our future as a mindful process.
In my spare time, I teach yoga and mindfulness to complement my counseling practice and lifelong love of dance and theater. I meditate daily to expand my capacity to show up for myself and others. I believe in never taking yourself too seriously and finding joy in life every day. You can find me on my paddleboard with friends or hiking with my family. I live for a great white-water rafting adventure. I am always ready to discuss lyrics, film, travel, or anything creative.
Advanced Studies in:
- Couples Counseling: Gottman Level 1
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
- Trauma-Informed Yoga & Somatic
- School & Career Counseling
- Crisis Counseling
Special Interests:
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Perfectionism
- Teens
- Trauma
- Attachment, Relationships, & Couples
- Grief, Spirituality & meaning
Kelly Venezia Crilly, LPC
Paul Bohrer, LCSW
Are you searching for a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and supported? Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you're managing ADHD/ADD, neurodivergence, anxiety, or self-esteem challenges, or working through grief, identity struggles, or finding deeper meaning in life, I’m here to provide a safe and affirming space for you to explore, heal, and grow. Together, we will work to understand your experiences, uncover your strengths, and develop tools that empower you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.
With a Bachelor’s in Public Health from Roger Williams University and a Master’s in Social Work from Montclair State University, I have worked in diverse settings, from schools to outpatient programs. My approach is integrative, blending CBT, Motivational Interviewing, existential philosophy, and somatic practices to support your unique needs.
Therapy is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. No matter what you’re facing, you deserve a space where you feel valued and understood. I am committed to providing affirming, inclusive care—especially for neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ individuals. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing, I would be honored to support you.
Paul Bohrer, LCSW
Valerie Burns, LPC
Valerie is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) who works with adolescents and adults in a warm, collaborative, and supportive therapeutic environment. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy from Marywood University and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Caldwell University.
Throughout her career, Valerie has provided care in inpatient settings, residential programs, and community mental health environments, helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem challenges, and major life transitions. She is also a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and is committed to creating an affirming space where clients feel seen, respected, and understood.
Valerie’s therapeutic style is integrative and personalized to each client’s unique needs and goals. She incorporates strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), somatic therapies, Sand Tray Therapy, Inner Child Healing, and IFS parts work. Her goal is to help clients feel safe, empowered, and supported as they build insight, resilience, and meaningful change in their healing journey.
Valerie Burns, LPC
Nathan Fehnel LAC
Nathan Fehnel is a warm and empathetic counselor who believes that trust and collaboration are at the heart of meaningful therapy. He earned his Master’s degree in School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health from Montclair State University and began his career as a certified school counselor, later transitioning to clinical mental health counseling. Nathan has experience in both individual and couples counseling, supporting clients through a wide range of life experiences and transitions. Nathan works with clients of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. His approach is eclectic and tailored to each person’s unique story, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy. He focuses on helping clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, adjustment, and relationship issues, always with an emphasis on practical strategies and genuine connection. Nathan takes a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy and believes it can be a powerful space for insight, growth, and lasting change.
Nathan Fehnel, LAC
New Therapists are Joining Us Soon!
MacGyver
Office Greeter
MacGyver earned his Best Boy Degree and has lots of experience in enthusiastically welcoming new and familiar friends to the office. MacGyver specializes in giving kisses, getting treats, asking for belly rubs, and just being handsome. MacGyver will make sure you have the best visit every time.
"The world would be a nicer place if everyone had the ability to love as unconditionally as a dog" M.K. Clinton
MacGyver