SHORELINE WELLNESS

Our
Team.

MANAGEMENT TEAM

Dr. Cara Powers, LPCHealth Psychologist · Founder & Clinical Director

Cara is the founder and clinical director of Shoreline Wellness Center, and Shoreline Wellness Behavioral Health Outreach, Inc. Her vision for creating Shoreline Wellness Center & Outreach was to bring people together that are diagnosed and struggling from various mental illnesses and to help them heal in a safe, nurturing, and holistic environment, one which focuses on helping people achieve personal wellness.

Robert PowersCo-Founder & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Robert Powers is the co-founder and CEO at Shoreline. He has a passion for working with children and adolescents. He is a kind, caring, dedicated director that strives to ensure that all clients at Shoreline receive exceptional services. He holds 3 Masters' degrees in Physical Education and Health, Technology, and Health Educational Leadership.

Jordan Baronski, LPCOffice Manager & Internship Placement Coordinator

Jordan has been an essential team member for several years, ensuring the office runs smoothly and efficiently. Currently serving as our Intern Placements Coordinator, she provides invaluable educational experiences for clinical interns. Through her strong collaborations with universities, she has built lasting relationships that enhance our learning environment. A natural leader, Jordan is supportive, kind, and always ready to lend a hand.

Stephanie Encarnacion, LCSWOffice Manager & Compliance Department Head

Stephanie has been an invaluable asset to our team. Currently serving as the Office Manager, she also plays a key role in compliance, where her sharp attention to detail ensures that all policies and procedures are closely followed. Her commitment to maintaining high standards is crucial to our success. A strong and approachable leader, Stephanie is always quick to assist and support those around her.

Alexandra Iannotti, LCSWOutreach Department Head & Office Manager

Alex prioritizes scheduling new and existing patients so that they can receive the best care possible. Alex provides excellent service to our patients and staff with a warm and inviting personality. Alex is the Assistant Outreach Coordinator at Shoreline and assists in coordinating events for the community.

Kim KennyOutreach and Grants Coordinator & Billing Manager

Kim is our Outreach and Grants Coordinator. She brings with her experience in grant research and a love of our community. Kim has worked with our local school district for the last 6 years and serves as a member of the West Haven Board of Education. She looks forward to working collaboratively with the Shoreline team to provide the best possible service to the children and families we serve.

Kaitlyn McKane, LPCOffice Manager & Intake Department Head

Kaitlyn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and has been a part of Shoreline's collaborative team for 10 years. She brings a positive and bright attitude to the practice, helping ensure the office runs smoothly for both staff and clients. Her dedication to Shoreline is highly valued by both colleagues and clients.

Sarah Moran, LCSWHR & Office Manager

Sarah has been a valued member of the Shoreline team for several years. Now serving as our HR Manager, Sarah brings her understanding and kind nature to the role, fostering a supportive and thriving work environment while championing the growth and well-being of our team.

MEDICAL STAFF

Dr. Samya Hawley, MDPsychiatrist & Medical Director

Dr. Hashem-Hawley is a Connecticut-licensed and board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult Psychiatrist. She has been a part of our team for over ten years. As part of Shoreline's team, Dr. Hawley goes above and beyond for our clients. She is known for having a passion for working with our child and adolescent clients.

Trainings and Areas of Interest: • Disaster Psychiatry Training — Yale New Haven Hospital, 2001 • Grief and Loss Training — Yale New Haven Hospital, 2001 • Consultation Liaison Psychiatry, Yale New Haven Hospital and VA West Haven, 2002 • Substance Abuse Training — VA West Haven, CT, July 2002–2003 • Alcohol and Polysubstance Abuse Clinic — VA West Haven, CT, July 2003–June 2003 • Pediatric Consultation Liaison Psychiatry Training — CT Children's Medical Center, 2004–2006 • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Training — In progress

Lori Skevas, APRNAdvanced Practice Registered Nurse

Lori is one of our nurse practitioners who has been in the field for over 20 years. Lori is a graduate from Quinnipiac University and has extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults. Lori has worked for Shoreline Wellness Center for the past nine years and gets lots of pleasure helping her patients.

Lori has been married for 43 years and has two children. Family is everything to Lori and she enjoys being with them on her days off. She also loves the beach and spending time listening to the ocean. When not working, you can catch her socializing with loved ones, laughing, and traveling the world.

Brandi Krassler, APRNAdvanced Practice Registered Nurse

Brandi completed her training as a bachelors prepared registered nurse from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, graduating Summa Cum Laude and as a member of both Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society of Nursing and The National Society of Leadership and Success. Prior to that, she earned a bachelor's degree from Florida State University in Psychology and Biology.

After working as a trauma nurse for several years, she re-found her passion for mental health and psychiatry and pursued her master's degree, becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. In her free time, you can find her cruising in her jeep, camping with her family, or lounging in her backyard.

Jenna Sheppard, APRNAdvanced Practice Registered Nurse

Jenna received her Master's in Nursing from Yale University with a specialty focus in family medicine and psychiatry. Prior to that, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and human physiology at University of California, Davis.

Jenna has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric facilities for children, adolescents, and adults, with a particular interest in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and developmental disorders including autism and ADHD. Jenna strives to provide a safe, therapeutic environment focused on patient-centered care. In her free time, you can find Jenna hiking with her dogs, reading psychological thrillers, or traveling the world.

Alimatu Busari, APRNAdvanced Practice Registered Nurse

Alimatu received her Master's in Nursing from Walden University with a specialty focus in psychiatry across the life span. She earned her Associates of Science degree in Nursing at Goodwin College and holds a Bachelor's of Art degree in English with a concentration in Journalism.

Alimatu has experience working at inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities for adolescents and adults, as well as in correctional managed health settings. She strives to establish therapeutic relationships by creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly share their experiences and work towards recovery and personal growth. In her free time Alimatu enjoys spending time with her son, grandson, and 2 dogs.

Christina Barrows, APRNAdvanced Practice Registered Nurse

Come back soon to learn more about Christina!

Emilia Firtich, APRNAdvanced Practice Registered Nurse

Emilia received her Master of Science in Nursing from the Yale University School of Nursing, where she specialized in psychiatry. Prior to that, she earned her Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University, and is also an LMSW. She recently completed a year-long psychiatric residency at the VA Connecticut Healthcare System, where she worked to serve our veterans and trained in interventional psychiatry, inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, PTSD specialty care, gerontologic psychiatry, and substance use treatment.

Emilia works with children and adults across a wide range of mental health conditions, integrating medication management with cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based approaches. She enjoys getting to know each person's unique way of thinking and values a practical, thoughtful approach that helps patients better understand themselves and build lasting skills for change. A lifelong New Haven resident, Emilia enjoys exploring all that Connecticut has to offer, from state parks, hiking trails, and beaches to local restaurants, museums, and hidden gems. She is often accompanied by her toy poodles, Henry and Ginger.

CLINICAL STAFF

Dr. Cara Powers, LPC, Health PsychologistFounder, Clinical Director, Licensed Clinician & Clinical Supervisor

*Not currently taking new patients*

Dr. Powers is the Founder and Clinical Director of Shoreline Wellness Center and its affiliated companies. Dr. Powers specializes in the treatment of adult, child, and adolescent anxiety and phobia disorders (including the treatment of selective mutism), blended family, foster and adoptive family, and step-family issues and divorce, as well as adolescent developmental issues. As a biological mother, an adoptive mother, and a stepmother of 4 children she has a lot of unique experience with child and adolescent issues in varying roles.

Her vision for creating Shoreline Wellness Center and Behavioral Health Clinic is to bring people together who are suffering from mental illness and to help them heal in a safe, nurturing, and holistic environment, one in which focuses on helping people achieve personal wellness.

In 2008 she won the CT Counseling Association (CCA) President's Award for her outstanding commitment to the counseling profession. Dr. Powers also supervises graduate counseling students and is a member of CT Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (CACES). She is also a member of the Adoption Community Network (ACN) and the CT Council on Adoption (CCA).

Dr. Powers utilizes an eclectic approach to her therapeutic treatment but primarily utilizes person-centered treatment modalities as well as cognitive behavioral therapy.

Emajae Ricketts, LPCClinical Supervisor

Emajae has her license in professional counseling and has been working in the field for over three years. Emajae obtained her bachelor's at Villanova University and her master's at the University of New Haven. Emajae has immense passion and energy for the mental health counseling field and enjoys assisting clientele of all ages. Emajae's approach is person-centered and strengths-based, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy methods. During her free time, Emajae loves to spend time with friends, family, and her pup!

Jordan Baronski, LPC, NBCCClinical Supervisor & Internship Placement Coordinator

Jordan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and clinical supervisor at Shoreline Wellness Center. Jordan obtained her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. Jordan's clinical approach resolves around person-centered and strength-based and solution-focused points of view with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Jordan enjoys working with adults with a multitude of diagnoses but has extensive experience with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, grief, life transitions, stress management, and relationships. Jordan is EMDR trained and provides therapy with support, patience, and empathy.

Jordan is also the Intern Placement Coordinator and enjoys working and collaborating with Universities and new students getting into the mental health field. When not working, Jordan enjoys reading and spending time with family, friends, and her dog Baylee.

Soulyma Lahnin-Yaghzar, LADC, MFTLicensed Clinician

Soulyma has a master's degree in marriage and family therapy and is licensed as a drug and alcohol counselor. For over 13 years, Soulyma has been working with adults both individually and as couples. Soulyma has extensive experience helping people regarding life cycle transitions including communication, relationships, marriage, parenting, separation/divorce, grief and loss issues, and substance abuse issues. Her experience also includes treating people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and ADD/ADHD.

Soulyma's approach is to 'meet my clients where they are.' She creates a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment for clients to develop the skills and insight needed to work towards their goals and heal. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, competitive running, Zumba, traveling, and spending time with family, including her puppy Oreo.

Stephanie Encarnacion, LCSWCompliance Officer & Clinical Supervisor

Stephanie is a spirited Licensed Clinical Social Worker known for her lively approach to therapy. With a master's degree in Social Work and a passion for helping individuals find fulfillment, Stephanie brings energy and excitement to every session. She specializes in co-occurring disorders and loves working with adolescents and children, making therapy fun and effective. Stephanie's vibrant personality and diverse experience create an uplifting atmosphere where clients feel empowered to explore their true selves.

Kaydian Harrison, LCSWClinical Supervisor

Kaydian is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who specializes in trauma therapy. She is trained in EMDR and utilizes the model to help clients find lasting healing both in their minds and bodies. Kaydian is also certified in the CBT model to assist patients in addressing their symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Chiara MannaMasters Level Clinician

Come back later to learn more about Chiara!

Sarah Moran, LCSWLicensed Clinical Social Worker & Clinical Supervisor

Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who obtained her Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University. She utilizes multiple therapeutic approaches including CBT, person-centered therapy, EMDR, solution-focused therapy, and more. Sarah's therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that clients are the experts of their own counseling experience.

Sarah works with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults. She is experienced in helping individuals seeking therapy for various issues, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma. Sarah places great importance on fostering a safe and inclusive atmosphere where individuals feel at ease to freely express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

Guretha Pettway, LPC-AMasters Level Clinician

"Gigi" is a Master Level Clinician with her LPC-A working towards her licensure in clinical counseling. Gigi has a Bachelor in Human Services from Charter Oak State College and a Master's in Counseling from University of Bridgeport. Gigi has over 20 years of experience working in the field of addiction and mental health.

Gigi's area of clients ranges from youths, young adults, adults, and geriatrics. She has been trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI), CBT, Solution-Focused Techniques (SFT), and Mindfulness techniques. Gigi is also currently working on her EMDR certification.

Gigi likes to listen to music, cook Southern style meals, and spend time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends.

Lindsay Rhys, LCSWClinical Supervisor

Lindsay Rhys is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who completed her Master's Degree at Quinnipiac University in 2019. Lindsay focuses on building connections with clients in order to facilitate a positive therapeutic relationship using empathy, compassion, and active listening. She uses person-centered approach and CBT and has experience working with clients of all ages with anxiety, depression, ADHD, school issues, life transitions, stress, and relationship issues. In her spare time, Lindsay enjoys being active outdoors, reading, cooking, and has a passion for traveling.

Kaitlyn McKane, LPCClinical Supervisor

Kaitlyn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and her master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Bridgeport. Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, supported, and truly heard.

As a therapist, I believe healing happens through connection, compassion, and understanding. I strive to provide a warm, nonjudgmental environment where clients can openly explore their thoughts, emotions, challenges, and goals at their own pace.

I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, grief, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, and the everyday pressures that life can bring. I understand that every person's story is unique, which is why I take a personalized approach to therapy tailored to your specific needs and strengths.

My style is compassionate, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I want therapy to feel like a safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. Together, we can build coping skills, process difficult experiences, improve emotional wellness, and work toward meaningful growth and balance in your life.

I am passionate about helping clients feel empowered, supported, and capable of creating positive change. Whether you are seeking guidance during a difficult season or simply looking to better understand yourself, I would be honored to walk alongside you in your journey.

Nichelle Joyner, LMSWMasters Level Clinician

Nichelle is a Master's level clinician actively pursuing LCSW certification. She obtained her MSW from UCONN School of Social Work. She currently works full time as a School Social Worker going on 22 years and has experience with children ages 4-16, their families, and women. Her specialty areas include learning disabilities, ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other behavioral health conditions.

Nichelle's treatment methods include person-centered, solution-focused, strengths-based, and motivational interviewing strategies while incorporating mindfulness, relaxation, and CBT techniques. In her personal life she enjoys spending time with family, music, arts, dancing, learning about other cultures, and travelling.

Gabrielle Panzo, MS, LPCAMasters Level Clinician

Gabrielle is currently a Master's Level Clinician with her LPC-A working towards licensure. Gabrielle studied clinical counseling at Albertus Magnus College. She works with teenagers to adults and demonstrates empathy and positive regard towards clients, providing coping tools such as relaxation, grounding techniques, mindfulness, and CBT strategies. In her spare time, Gabrielle enjoys spending time with her loved ones, watching Netflix, traveling, and spending time with her dog Penny, who you will often see in session.

Lisa Spearman, LCSWLicensed Clinical Social Worker

Lisa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Shoreline Wellness Center who obtained her Masters in Social Work and a Bachelors in Psychology from Southern CT State University. With over 7 years of experience, Lisa has worked with all age groups including individuals, couples, and families. Lisa is also a graduate of the Training for Adoption Competency (TAC) from the Center for Adoption Support and Education.

Lisa utilizes strength-based approaches, person-centered strategies, CBT, and DBT. She is committed to working with you side-by-side on your journey through life. Lisa is a married mother of six, 2 of whom are adopted, and enjoys Zumba and spending time with her family, friends, and 2 dogs Samson and Bruno.

Michael Suraci, LCSW, LADCLicensed Clinical Social Worker & Drug Counselor

Michael is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). He graduated from Gateway Community College with an Associate's Degree in Drug and Alcohol Counseling and received both his Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University.

Michael has experience in a variety of populations and settings including residential case management, autism case management, community mental health, substance use, domestic violence, ACT Team, and Mobile Crisis. He primarily adopts a person-centered, strength-based approach. When not working, Michael enjoys time with his children, playing video games, and media relating to self-exploration and development.

Royce Manifold, MS, LPCLicensed Professional Counselor & Certified Rehabilitation Counselor

Royce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) with a focus on working with individuals with invisible disabilities. He studied clinical and rehabilitation counseling at Penn State and has over a decade of experience working with young adults and teens with learning differences including high-functioning autism, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.

His current area of focus is working with clients undergoing post-secondary transition to college/employment. Clinician's current hours are 9am–8pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through telehealth.

Kayla Shea, LMSWMasters Level Clinician & Administrative Assistant

Kayla is a caring and kindhearted Masters Level Clinician (LMSW) who obtained her graduate degree in Social Work from Quinnipiac University in 2024. She is actively working towards her LCSW certification and utilizes Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) among other modalities.

Kayla specializes in teens and young adults with ADHD, anxiety, depressive disorders, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, and trauma. Her approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and solution-focused. When not in office, Kayla can be found at the beach, crafting, baking, or hanging out at home with her cat Skittles.

Rachel Quirbach, LPC, MT-BCLicensed Professional Counselor & Board-Certified Music Therapist

Rachel (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC), and EMDR Trained Therapist. Rachel earned her bachelor's in music therapy from Arizona State University and her master's in clinical mental health counseling with a focus in music therapy from Lesley University.

Rachel is experienced with trauma recovery, anxiety, LGBTQ+ challenges, ADHD, identity formation, grief, life transitions, and more. She integrates expressive arts therapy, EMDR, CBT, and trauma-informed care. Rachel will often incorporate music, art, movement, and other forms of creative self-expression into sessions. In her time outside of sessions, Rachel enjoys hiking, listening to podcasts, playing music, tending to her houseplants, and thrifting.

Sharnelle Branyon, LADC, AADC, ICAADCLicensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor

As a licensed clinician in Connecticut and Massachusetts, I bring over 25 years of experience in the field to our sessions. My approach is rooted in strength-based individual therapy, utilizing approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, trauma-informed care, client-centered therapy, and solution-focused strategies. I specialize in working with adults who are navigating a variety of challenges, including substance use, addiction-related issues, grief and loss, relationship issues, family dynamics, as well as mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and trauma.

My mission is to create a nurturing and understanding environment where you can explore and make sense of your past experiences. I aim to help you organize your thoughts, gain clarity in times of uncertainty, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself. In this safe space, you will be encouraged to tackle difficult decisions, process significant life events, and experience personal growth. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery that promotes insight, guidance, and enhanced self-awareness. I am here to help you recognize and cultivate the inner strength you possess, enabling you to overcome life's challenges and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling future. Let's work together to uncover your potential and establish a path towards healing and growth.

Alexandra Iannotti, LCSWClinical Supervisor

Alex Iannotti is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. She specializes in PTSD, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, and depression, drawing from CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and somatic techniques.

In addition to her clinical work, Alex serves as the assistant outreach coordinator, contributing to the community through events and resource coordination. Through her combined roles she is driven to make a positive impact by providing holistic care and creating opportunities for individuals to thrive.

Dontae Abbate, LPCAMasters Level Clinician

Dontae is currently a professional counselor associate (LPC-A) pursuing full licensure as an LPC. He obtained his bachelor's in psychology from Charter Oak State College and his Masters of Science Degree in clinical counseling from Albertus Magnus College (2023).

Dontae strives to create a non-judgmental, comfortable, and confidential space for clients. His primary therapeutic approaches are CBT and solution-focused therapy (SFT). When outside of the office, Dontae enjoys spending time with loved ones, being active in recreational sports leagues, and taking his dog on long walks.

Latoia Comeaux, LMSWMasters Level Clinician

Latoia Comeaux, LMSW, earned her Master of Social Work in 2024 at the University of Saint Joseph. Her professional experience includes home health care (including hospice), skilled facilities, substance abuse/mental health, and case management. Latoia has been working in the behavioral health field since 2018.

Latoia shows confidence tempered with humility, empathy, integrity, and compassion. She is a true believer of person-centered treatment and empowering individuals to be the driver of their goals. She is passionate about advocating for the voiceless and serving vulnerable populations.

Allison Jezierny, LPCAMasters Level Clinician & Administrative Assistant

Allison is a Master's Level Clinician actively pursuing her licensure as a professional counselor. She obtained her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Saint Joseph and holds a bachelor's degree in psychology. Allison strives to create a safe and supportive space and build a strong therapeutic alliance with her clients.

Allison's therapeutic approach is rooted in person-centered care to cultivate personalized strategies for growth and healing. Through CBT techniques and a diverse array of evidence-based practices, Allison addresses the unique needs of clients spanning all ages and diverse backgrounds.

Rebecca Danso, LPCAMasters Level Clinician

Come back later to learn more about Rebecca!

Katharine Fogarty, LPCAMasters Level Clinician

Katharine currently holds an LPC-A and is working towards full licensure as an LPC. She studied Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Haven and is experienced in working with adolescents and adults, as well as individual and couples therapy modalities. Katharine utilizes CBT, psychodynamic, person-centered, and constructivist therapies. She has experience with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. In her spare time, Katharine likes to read, watch movies, play pickleball, and spend time with her dog, Cooper.

Carlyn Soter, LPC-AMasters Level Clinician

Carlyn is an LPCA who loves the endless learning and growing as a counselor. She especially loves going on the journey of inner health with another individual and experiencing a collaborative experience with them. She uses a combination of humanistic person-centered approaches, along with psychodynamic techniques dependent upon the individual's wants and needs. Carlyn believes a counselor should build trust, rapport, and meet an individual where they are.

Amanda Valdegas, LPC-AMasters Level Clinician

Amanda has earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sacred Heart University with an undergraduate background in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. Her interest areas are in trauma-informed care, trauma recovery, grief counseling, attachment theory, social anxiety, and self-esteem. Amanda uses Rogerian principles and client-centered approaches. Outside of counseling, Amanda enjoys photography, reading, writing, drawing, going to concerts, and spending time with her friends and family.

Katrina Quoka, LPC-AMasters Level Clinician

Katrina provides adaptable and empowering therapy to individuals from late childhood (10+) through adulthood (60+). With a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, she tailors her approach to each client, offering emotional regulation, psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, and coping strategies including deep breathing and mindfulness. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and dissociation.

Katrina creates a space open to exploring diverse values and belief systems. When not working, she enjoys hiking, archery, walks in nature, reading, tea, and relaxing video games.

Elysia Roman, LMSWMasters Level Clinician

Elysia is a compassionate masters level clinician passionate about empowering teens and adults to overcome anxiety, OCD, depression, and other mental health challenges. She holds a Master's degree in Social Work from Quinnipiac University and is actively pursuing her LCSW certification.

Using CBT, she integrates evidenced-based techniques with holistic principles, recognizing that mental health is deeply connected to physical, emotional, and social well-being. Believing that therapy is a collaborative journey, Elysia is committed to supporting her clients as they discover their inner strengths.

Janay Lamothe, LPC-AMasters Level Clinician

Come back later to learn more about Janay!

Serena Morrison-Monteleone, LCSWLicensed Clinical Social Worker

Serena is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a graduate of Fordham University. Serena provides therapy to children, adolescents, and adults using a trauma-informed and evidence-based approach. Her clinical work integrates CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support clients in achieving meaningful and lasting change. Serena strives to create a safe, collaborative space where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered in their healing process.

Maddy Flader, LPC-AMasters Level Clinician

Maddy is currently a Master's Level Clinician with her LPC-A, working towards full licensure. She earned her degree in Mental Health Counseling from Western Connecticut State University and works with children, adolescents, and young adults navigating anxiety, self-esteem concerns, and life transitions. Maddy uses a collaborative, strengths-based approach and is known for creating a warm, supportive space where clients feel comfortable and understood. She also incorporates play-based techniques when working with children to support emotional expression and skill-building.

Maddy is particularly interested in helping individuals manage anxiety, perfectionism, and emotional regulation while building confidence and clarity in their daily lives. Outside of her clinical work, she enjoys spending time at the beach, trying new restaurants, and relaxing with a good TV show or movie.

Maria Berrios, LMSWMasters Level Clinician

Maria holds a Master's degree in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University and is actively pursuing her LCSW certification. Her professional experience includes case management. She is a compassionate masters level clinician who works with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults. She utilizes a trauma-informed and evidence-based approach to support clients in navigating emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. Her clinical work integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing to help clients build insight, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful growth.

She specializes in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and life transitions. She is also passionate about supporting women experiencing relationship difficulties, helping them rebuild confidence, strengthen self-worth, and develop healthier relationship patterns. Maria believes therapy is a collaborative process and strives to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and actively involved in their treatment journey. She is committed to helping clients build on their strengths, challenge self-doubt, and work toward meaningful and lasting change. When not working, Maria loves to spend time with loved ones, watching her favorite series, going to different restaurants, traveling to Puerto Rico, and spending time with her cat, Kobe.

Donna Santos, LPCLicensed Professional Counselor

I was a stay at home mom to two daughters when I decided to go back to school for my master's degree and start a new career. I am passionate about helping others live their best lives with confidence, happiness and serenity. I have been working in the mental health and substance abuse field since 2018 and am a Licensed Professional Counselor with the State of Connecticut.

My greatest strength is empathy and provoking change with each individual, who is the expert on their strengths and weaknesses. Using cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and person centered therapy interventions to assist each individual to be their best.

Seb Perumbilly, Ph.D., LMFTLicensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Dr. Perumbilly is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Fulbright Researcher, AAMFT Clinical Fellow, and Approved Clinical Supervisor with over 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families. His clinical work focuses on complex and high-conflict family situations, military veterans reintegrating into family and community life, and substance use disorders.

Beyond his clinical practice, he serves as a tenured Full Professor in the Department of Marriage and Family Therapy at Southern Connecticut State University and was honored to receive the Fulbright Scholar Award for Academic and Professional Excellence from the U.S. Department of State. At the heart of his work is a deep commitment to helping people build healthier relationships, find strength in times of difficulty, and create lasting pathways toward growth and healing.

GET IN TOUCH

Ready to take the first step?

Our team is here to support you. Give us a call and we will help connect you with the right clinician.

(203) 931-1184

STUDENTS & INTERNS

Practicums & Internships

Through Shoreline Wellness Behavioral Health Clinic & Learning Center, students and interns are able to join Shoreline's team to gain hands-on experience in mental health. Our interns, graduate, and undergraduate students alike, add to Shoreline's diverse team of clinicians. To learn more about internship placements and what our interns do here at Shoreline, keep reading below!

UNDERGRADUATE INTERNS & VOLUNTEERS

We are happy to welcome undergraduate interns and volunteers seeking experiential opportunities!

At Shoreline, our undergraduate interns and volunteers are afforded the opportunity to work closely with our administrative staff in serving our clients with quality care. Our internship opportunities at Shoreline give students the opportunity to engage with West Haven and its surrounding communities through the provision of mental health services.

For more information regarding a placement at Shoreline, please contact our Internship Placement Coordinator (IPC) at ipc@sbhw.org.

GRADUATE INTERNS

When working as a graduate intern at Shoreline, our students are afforded the opportunity to work closely with our clients and clinical staff to collaborate and provide quality services. We have a number of clinical supervisors who work with our graduate interns to provide supervision that enhances the student's internship experience and guides them as they enter and explore a career in mental health.

For more information regarding a placement at Shoreline, please contact our Internship Placement Coordinator (IPC) at ipc@sbhw.org.

PARTNER UNIVERSITIES

Shoreline is proud to be a collaborative learning site with numerous reputable graduate programs including:

  • Albertus Magnus College
  • Arizona State University
  • Northwestern University
  • New England College
  • Fairfield University
  • Sacred Heart University
  • Quinnipiac University
  • Southern Connecticut State University
  • Springfield College
  • University of Bridgeport
  • University of New Haven
  • University Saint Joseph
  • Post University
  • Widener University
  • Yale University

Don't see your university or college? Don't worry, we are always looking to establish new collaborations!

FAQ

How long is a graduate internship placement with Shoreline?

Typically, students stay for 9–12 months on average. However, this varies based on program requirements. *Please note we do not accept graduate student interns doing direct client care for less than 1 year.*

What do hours for a graduate internship look like?

Shoreline requires all graduate interns to work either some Friday or Saturday hours, along with evening hours (defined as between 4pm and 8pm).

What would I be doing during my placement?

Graduate interns provide direct care to patients in individual, family, or couple psychotherapy sessions. They complete appropriate treatment plans and session notes, participate in community outreach events, and complete confidential telephone intakes for prospective new patients.

© 2026 SHORELINE WELLNESS · WEST HAVEN, CT