Meet our therapists

Dr. David Guggenheim is an experienced clinical psychologist and health care administrator. He has worked with patients at different stages of life, including children, adolescents, and adults, and he has treated patients living with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use, and attention deficient hyperactivity disorder.

Dr. Guggenheim has specific training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and foundational training in dialectical behavioral therapy. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Guggenheim served as the Chief Behavioral Health Officer at Callen-Lorde Community Health Center in New York City, specializing in LGBTQ+ health care. In that role, he oversaw teams of providers including psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers, who collectively provided care to thousands of patients in the New York metropolitan area.  While at Callen-Lorde, he also served as co-chair for the behavioral health subcommittee of the Community Health Center Association of New York State; worked as an Adjunct Professor at Post University; and performed volunteer clinical work at the Weill Cornell Center for Human Rights.

Before joining Callen-Lorde, Dr. Guggenheim worked as Associate Chief Behavioral Health Officer at Community Health Center, Inc., a federally qualified health center in Connecticut.A recognized expert, Dr. Guggenheim has delivered lectures to audiences ranging from medical schools to corporate executives, and he has been quoted in national media including The Advocate, Yahoo Finance, and Teen Vogue.  Dr. Guggenheim has also been honored with an Early Career Achievement Award from the American Psychological Association in 2016.  Dr. Guggenheim received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Connecticut in 2002 and his Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University/Washington, DC in 2009.

Joseph Smith, LMHC, earned his Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Kentucky University in 2015 and has worked with patients in a clinical capacity for the past six years. While in graduate school, he was exposed to various clinical and research experiences, where he found his passion in examining the motivational factors of human behavior. Joseph's academic work strengthened his interest to work with individuals in a therapeutic capacity, which ultimately led to advanced experiential training in crisis interventions and the treatment of individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. Before relocating to New York City, he worked with individuals in under-served communities in the Appalachian region.

Joseph subscribes to a humanistic, motivational enhancement, and cognitive behavioral framework. Understanding the benefit of therapeutic rapport, Joseph fosters an environment of self-acceptance and self-awareness while promoting intrinsic motivation for patients to act as their own catalyst of change. In addition, Joseph has a passion for working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, the LGBTQIA+ community, women with reproductive challenges, and victims of domestic violence.

Geoffrey Edelstein, LCSW, is a Licensed Certified Social Worker. His practice is informed by the latest neuro-cognitive sciences, emphasizing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. In addition to working with children, adolescents, and adults, he also works with couples and families. Geoffrey also has experience working with LGBTQ+ clients.

Geoffrey received his Master’s in Social Work from New York University Silver School of Social Work. Before that, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature at Drew University.

Geoffrey’s experience includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy, but his unique approach to therapy also integrates music, writing, drawing, and origami.

In crafting a treatment plan, Geoffrey draws on his years of clinical experience from Four Winds Hospital. There, Geoffrey served as the Coordinator of Children’s Services and facilitated care for children ages 8-13 in a Dialectical Behavior Therapy group setting. Geoffrey also worked with adults and adolescents in Four Wind’s inpatient units. Prior to this, Geoffrey worked in respite services at Family Services of Westchester and the Federally Qualified Health Center of the Hudson Valley Cerebral Palsy Association.

Geoffrey is committed to delivering quality mental health services to his patients and is passionate about helping them reach their goals.

Amanda Favretto is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who holds certificates as a Nationally Certified Counselor as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Working with military service members as well as faith-based counseling are two of Amanda’s passions. Amanda has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals struggling with concerns such as low-self esteem, adjustment, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship and communication issues, utilizing such treatment modalities as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, as well as others.

Amanda believes in the importance of meeting each individual where they are at, focusing on all aspects of a person: heart, mind, body, and spirit. It has been Amanda’s experience that focusing on each layer leads to long-lasting, deeper healing and growth. Believing that each person has it in them to heal and grow, Amanda considers it a unique privilege to assist people on that journey. At each individual’s pace, striving to promote a comfortable environment, Amanda will gently encourage deeper self-reflection, mindfulness, challenging oneself, and skill-building. She would like you to feel free to reach out to set up an appointment and answer any questions you may have.

Sarah Flatin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. She received her Master of Social Work degree from Simmons University. Sarah has over three years of experience providing client-centered individual and family therapy services to a wide variety of clients. Sarah has worked in a variety of settings including community mental health, an outpatient clinic, and in-home therapy services.

Sarah has experience working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, grief, family and relationship issues, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and other mental health concerns. As a clinical social worker, she believes that the best approach to therapy is a collaborative process with the client to achieve their goals. Sarah has experience with modalities including psychodynamic, tri-phasic trauma therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.

Lauren Mingle is an outpatient therapist at Talkiatry. She is dually licensed in Colorado as a LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist).

Lauren earned her master's degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling/Therapy from the University of Northern Colorado. Before joining Talkiatry, Lauren held roles in a diverse array of settings including community mental health, crisis services, and outpatient therapy. Her previous specialty focuses included youth, adolescents, adults, and couples.

Lauren uses a variety of evidence-based approaches including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to meet people where they are at and work with them to best reach their personalized therapy goals.

Maria-Anne Duncan, LCSW-R holds the position of psychotherapist at Talkiatry. She has over twenty years experience working with individuals, families and groups addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma. Before joining Talkiarty, Ms. Duncan worked as a Director of Clinical Services for a not-for-profit in the Hudson Valley Region of New York State.  Prior to that, Ms. Duncan worked for a local hospital in the psychiatric department providing treatment to the Inpatient and Outpatient units. She has held several positions as a clinician and program director. Additionally, Ms. Duncan has taught parenting classes, Mental Health First Aid and  provides training on Trauma-Informed Care. Ms. Duncan started her career as a clinician in a Crime Victims' Assistance Program funded by New York State.  Through this experience she began to explore the effects of trauma on individuals, their families and the community.  

Ms. Duncan has been trained in both EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and SE (Somatic Experiencing).  She utilizes these body-focused therapies to help her clients be released from years of painful energies locked in their systems. Ms. Duncan received her Bachelors Degree from Marist College and her Masters from Fordham University.  She has been trained to supervise Social Work Students in their field placements.  Ms. Duncan appeared in the Vassar College student developed training video, "He said, She said" which is used to train peer sexual assault counselors.  In April of 2022, she became a trainer for LivingWorks "SafeTALK" program.  Additionally, Ms. Duncan has a trained therapy dog, Monkey, who goes with her to local hospitals and nursing homes to provide comfort and affection.

Nakia Alford-Sunday is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has extensive experience working in the mental health field. Nakia has worked directly with clients from diverse populations living with a variety of mental illnesses. Nakia received her bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University and her master's degree from Lamar University.

‍
Nakia has been practicing for over 3 years as a Licensed Professional Counselor, focusing on anxiety, depression and complex trauma. When working with Nakia, treatment is tailored to the individual as great effort is made to select the treatment modality that suits the individual's personal issues. Nakia uses a multifaceted approach with a foundation in cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and EMDR therapy.

Cherese Allen is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with adolescents, teens, and adults. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Houston and earned her master's degree from Houston Christian University. Additionally, she completed an internship at a private practice in Texas. Upon obtaining her license, she achieved certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Shame-Informed Therapy, and Eating Disorders.

With years of experience in both education and private practice, Cherese has helped individuals, couples, and families overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. Her expertise includes, but is not limited to, addressing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, career changes, and major life transitions.

Cherese employs a holistic approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. She believes that with the right tools, you can conquer many obstacles and reach your desired destination. Cherese looks forward to supporting you on your journey!

David Arabie is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist who has extensive experience working in the mental health field. David has worked directly with clients from various demographics and in various clinical settings, from inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practice, to working with the incarcerated. David has a long history of working with clients with an array of mental health conditions and challenges, from mood disorders, adjustment-related issues, addiction, family dynamics, relationship issues, emotional trauma, behavioral issues, anger management, and clinical anxiety and depression. He has a working knowledge of psychotropic medications to help with med-compliance and treatment barriers. David obtained undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Houston Clear Lake in Houston, Texas.

David has been practicing as an LPC for 19 years but has also worked as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor before obtaining his LPC. Working with David, treatment is tailored to the individual, so the goals of therapy can be met, and the client can experience a sense of vested interest in their own emotional contentment and growth.

David uses an eclectic approach to therapy, with a strong foundation in Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. Personally, David is a musician, community theater actor, educator, coach, and swim official.

‍

Violetta Aranda, LPC is a native South Texan and second generation Mexican- American.  She is a 2011 graduate of St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas and obtained full LPC licensure in Texas in August of 2017.  Her practice focuses on cognitive behavioral modalities within a humanistic client centered approach to foster healing through self-acceptance and self-awareness. She has over a decade worth’s experience working within the mental health field and fifteen years working directly with children and adolescents in various capacities.

Before joining Talkiatry, Miss Aranda practiced exclusively within the community health sector and these experiences provided the opportunity to become fully immersed in Trauma and Crisis Management and fostered the passion for evolving research in the treatment of trauma informed care. She now aspires to utilize these allocated experiences and passion for the field to promote mental health awareness, client advocacy, and quality of care.

Julia Askinazi is a LCSW with 14 years experince, who has substantial experience working in the field of mental health. Julia has collaborated with clients from diverse backgrounds with a broad range of psychiatric as well as physical health challenges. Julia earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Shepherd College and her Master's degree from the Charleston campus of West Virginia University. Julia has volunteered or worked in nearly every type of setting from daycares to nursing homes, including homeless shelters, hospices, with foster children and adoptive families, psych hospitals, Neuro ICU, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and even private practice. In undergraduate school she was President of the Social Work Association and interned for the National Association of Social Workers in graduate school. She has worked with people in recovery, clients who are HIV positive, those enlisted in the military and their family members, including neurodiverse and LGBTIQA individuals.

Julia has been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 14 years, with an emphasis on Anxiety Disorders and Complicated Mourning, including symptoms that hinder daily functioning. Engaging with Julia, treatment is client-centered and designed to fit each person's situation. Julia uses a comprehensive approach founded on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, focusing on Mindfulness.

Ethan Bardell holds the position of Psychotherapist at Talkiatry.  He completed both his undergraduate and graduate training at Clarion University of Pennsylvania. Ethan obtained his BS in Rehabilitative Sciences and Human Services with a concentration in developmental disabilities. Ethan then completed his MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Ethan has a strong background in community mental health work, where he has worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups using a client centered approach that is both gentle and supportive.  In sessions, Ethan works to create a welcoming space where individuals can both process and make sense of their unique experiences, while using a combination of modalities to best fit the needs of each individual.

Ethan has a true passion and interest in treating a wide array of psychiatric  disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, dual disorder and substance use issues and various personality disorders.

‍

Keesha Barthelemy is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Level-2. She has extensive experience working in the mental health, and addictions field with adolescents, emerging adults, adults, and families.  Keesha has worked directly with clients of various demographics, living with a variety of mental health conditions. She obtained her Undergraduate degree in Psychology from Hofstra University on Long Island, NY, and graduate degree from Mercy University in Westchester, NY.

Keesha has been practicing for 3 years as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, focusing on anxiety, mood disorders, addictions and families. Treatment is tailored to the individual; with a foundation in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior-Therapy, and Mindfulness.  Furthermore, Keesha has experience working with individuals seeking Faith-based Therapy, with a focus on Christianity and Catholicism.  
Keesha’s vast clinical background has assisted in her development as a well-rounded counselor.  She prides herself on possessing great interpersonal skills, and building therapeutic relationships in an effort to assist with growth, healing, and flourishment.

Rebecca Benedict is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with a background in providing mental health services across several diverse settings. She has gained invaluable experience working in two community mental health agencies in addition to completing two internships.

Rebecca holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University, and has been working in the role of mental health counselor for three years.Rebecca specializes in addressing the complex interplay between neuro-divergence and mental health symptoms. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),dissociative disorders, and challenges with emotion regulation.

Her therapeutic approach is eclectic, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, narrative therapy, and existentialism. Rebecca is dedicated to tailoring her treatment modalities to fit the unique needs of each client, often integrating creativity and clients' personal hobbies or interests into the therapeutic process to enhance engagement and outcomes. With a compassionate and holistic approach, Rebecca Benedict is committed to fostering a supportive and transformative environment for her clients, guiding them towards improved mental health and overall well-being.

Paula Bennett, LPC, has been in practice for over 20 years. She specializes in CBT and individual therapy. Paula strives to provide a client-centered approach based on the individual’s needs.

Paula has a specific passion for victims of trauma. As a teen and young adult, she struggled with depression. There weren’t many treatment options at that time but she found a counselor who inspired her to help other with mental health issues.

Outside of work, Paula is known to enjoy reading, swimming, animals, spending time with family and watching movies. She also loves being able to help people and watch them grow.

Meagan Blews is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. She graduated with her MA in Professional Counseling in 2011, and after being a stay at home mom for six years, ventured into community mental health. Meagan has served as both a lead clinician and Interim Center Director over the years and is passionate about providing quality assessment and treatment options. With extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Meagan provides comprehensive and empathetic care to her clients. Meagan's approach to therapy is deeply rooted in trauma-informed principles, ensuring that clients feel safe, seen, and supported throughout their healing journey. Her passion lies in empowering individuals with the skills necessary for emotion regulation, helping them navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence. Meagan utilizes a mindfulness-based approach, guiding clients toward acceptance and self awareness in order to help clients overcome obstacles that prevent them from reaching their full potential. Through a collaborative and non-judgmental environment, she fosters a safe space for exploration and self-discovery.

Kristina Bona is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working in the mental health field. Kristina received her bachelor’s from The University of Texas at Austin and proceeded to obtain her Master’s degree in Counseling from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Since graduating with her Masters, she has worked in the mental health field, providing mental health relief to a wide demographic of clients.

Over the past 10 years, Kristina has worked for various agencies, ranging from the local mental health authority to private practice. Kristina has experience working with people experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, and other mental health diagnosis interfering with daily living. As a clinician, she meets the client where they are in their life and tailor’s her treatment style to help them learn/apply strategies in developing skills for emotional regulation, developing healthy boundaries, effective communication skills, and more.

Kristina uses an eclectic blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused therapy, and mindfulness to increase the client’s resiliency, autonomy, and empower them to live full lives.

Shivani M. Borhara is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been providing therapy to individuals and couples for the past 10 years. Shivani has a background in trauma and has worked with a diverse population of clients with a variety of issues and mental health struggles.

Shivani attended Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY to obtain her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and Queens College in Flushing, NY for her Master’s in Psychology, where she taught as an adjunct professor for undergraduate students. Shivani has also spent time bringing mental health resources and trainings to the NYC public school system. She is very passionate about mental health and helping individuals through the tough times in life.

Shivani’s approach is collaborative and she tends to focus on Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Interventions. She does explore childhood traumas if they are related to current issues. Shivani believes that there is no one size fits all model, and meets individuals where they are in their journey. Shivani focuses on normalizing anxiety and stress, while allowing one to move forward in life.

Sunny Bowers is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in the state of Ohio.
She holds an undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies
from Kent State University, complemented by a graduate degree in a Master of Arts in
Education with a focus in Clinical Counseling from Malone University.

‍
With a rich professional background spanning over 10 years, Sunny has dedicated her expertise
to working with diverse populations, including adults, first responders, and teenagers. Her scope
of practice covers all phases of addiction, trauma and mood disorders with a particular
emphasis on addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, adjustment concerns, and
relational difficulties.

‍
Sunny's therapeutic approach places a strong emphasis on the value of the therapeutic
relationship. Recognizing the pivotal role of comfort and trust in the therapeutic process, she
believes that lasting change is built on authentic exploration. Sunny employs several different
therapeutic approaches, tailoring her methods to individual needs. Grounded in the
development of insight and awareness, her overarching goal is to support empowerment and
personal freedom for her clients.

‍
Sunny is enthusiastic about the prospect of working collaboratively with individuals seeking
positive change and personal growth. If you're looking for a therapist who values authenticity
and is dedicated to supporting your journey towards lasting change.

Jacqueline Bowling began her counseling career in 2013, and for the past 7 years, she has worked in Outpatient Services, working with all ages and all mental illnesses as well. Prior to Outpatient Services, she worked with In-Home Services providing counseling services with individuals as well as their natural support system.

Jacqueline got her Undergraduate and Master's degree in Education and Human Services, completed in December 2013, at the University of Lindsey Wilson, Columbia Kentucky. In June of 2021, she became Clinic Coordinator, and in October 2021 she completed training for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor.

She is currently a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Texas and Kentucky. Her areas of professional focus are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focused, along with integrating other clinical modalities to fit the needs of clients/patients as they work towards meeting goals/objectives.

After receiving my bachelor’s in psychology from SUNY New Paltz in 2013, I worked as a medical assistant with individuals with developmental disabilities. From there, I recognized the need to promote mental health and a balanced way of living. I completed my master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling through Walden University in 2021.

My goal is to guide individuals towards cultivating their own sense of independence, ability to utilize healthy coping strategies, and regain control over their lives. I work with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, couples, and families as they begin their journey through processing adjustment changes, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, trauma, among other symptoms. Through the therapeutically proven interventions from CBT, DBT, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness, we can begin to explore triggers, symptoms, and challenges in a safe, respectful environment.

Brittany Bridges received her Bachelor’s of Science (BS) in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, as well as her Masters (MS) in Mental Health Counseling, from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Ms. Bridges is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) for the state of North Carolina as well as a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Ms. Bridges utilizes an array of therapeutic modalities and techniques based on the needs of the clients including but not limited to, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Solution Focused Therapy.  

‍

Ms. Bridges’ prior experience entails working in a clinical outpatient setting and on a North Carolina college campus where she’s treated a variety of mental health conditions. She leads with openness and empathy as she strives to provide a safe and respectful environment in which clients from various backgrounds and cultures can explore a myriad of issues. Ms. Bridges enjoys working with a broad range of clients and concerns. Her professional interests include working with young adults, women's issues, diversity and multicultural experiences

Brittiny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and has been in the mental health field since 2018. She has experience working with various demographics and mental health conditions. Brittiny enjoys helping clients reach their full potential and navigate through life, especially during difficult times. She believes in achieving high-quality work as a therapist, which means meeting an individual where they are, without judgement. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family/friends and traveling.

Brittiny attended Prairie View A&M University for her undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice and stayed for her Master of Arts degree in Counseling. She began working as an Academic Advisor, where she transitioned into working as a therapist in an outpatient treatment center. Brittiny has also worked in a Juvenile Detention Center, where she enjoyed helping misunderstood youth. After Covid, Brittiny transitioned into working as a Telehealth Therapist.

Brittiny’s therapeutic focus includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Holistic Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness techniques. She utilizes a collaborative and holistic approach with her clients, to meet them where they are and help them reach their goals.

Miranda Brumber is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, who has extensive experience working in the mental health field. Miranda has worked directly with clients of various demographics, living with a variety of mental health conditions. Miranda attended undergraduate school in Albany, NY, graduate school in Oswego, NY, and attended an internship abroad in London, UK; she continues to travel and obtain knowledge through these experiences.  

Miranda has been practicing for 3 years as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, focusing on mood disorders and chronic challenges including health and physical ailments, which may hinder daily life. Working with Miranda, treatment is tailored to the individual, as there is great effort put into choosing the treatment modality that fits the individual's personal struggles.  

Miranda uses an eclectic approach with a foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, intertwined with mindfulness stemming from her personal practices with yoga and meditation.