Owner/Founder – Sean Tendler, LMHC

I sincerely believe that people can change. Sometimes we just need help navigating that process. Much of what I do involves helping people get unstuck from the destructive traps we find ourselves in. I can help you tap into and empower your internal motivation, strength, and tenacity. I am a determined therapist who will help you achieve your goals and sustain them long-term. By utilizing the most scientific-based, effective therapy techniques, coupled with compassion, support, and encouragement, we can heal your suffering together. If you are experiencing distress, despair, or maybe just feel lost, I will help you find a solution.

I specialize in addictions, anxiety (including OCD and Panic Attacks), depression, and motivational/procrastination issues. I also have a lot of experience treating clients with diagnoses such as Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder. I am very interactive, present-focused, and action-oriented. For the past 6 years I have been practicing Zen meditation, allowing me to offer additional time-tested approaches to help you achieve mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual harmony in your life.

I have undergone my own tribulations in life, and in more ways than one, can honestly say that I’ve been there. I know first-hand the hard work that is required to make profound changes. Paired with professional training, my personal history gives me a special edge. The journey to peace and contentment may not be easy, but I will help you get there.

I’m the founder of North Star Counseling – read more about my story here.

Executive Clinical Supervisor, Alyssa Sceppaguercio, LMHC, EMDR Certified Therapist

As an EMDR Certified Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I believe in providing a safe, warm, and empathic space for clients, as we take this powerful journey together. I have a wide range of counseling experience in various fields including collegiate and professional athletics, psychiatric rehabilitation, and private practice. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing complex trauma, PTSD, and dissociative disorders. I also work with individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community regarding identity development and family dynamics. 

I believe in creating genuine and authentic relationships through the counseling process. It is important to build trust, and I am patient when clients decide to take on this next step. It takes courage and strength to reach out for support, and I truly commend you for doing so. My approach to counseling is allowing individuals the opportunity to sit in the driver seat and take control of their destination. I see myself as the passenger where I am able to provide support and guidance, as well as new tools and techniques to assist for a smoother ride.

I utilize a humanistic, person-centered model mixed with trauma-focused approaches, such as CBT, CPT and EMDR, to assist individuals in becoming the best versions of themselves. I will ask the difficult questions in order to stay true to an authentic relationship, as I am a firm believer that each one of us has the ability to transform our negative experiences for a life full of happiness.

Executive Clinical Supervisor, Denise DeMattia, LMHC, EMDR Trained Therapist

Your life is an ongoing journey and it’s time to make yourself a priority. Are you not living the life you dreamed of? Or do you often feel frustrated that your relationships, home life, and career are less than satisfying? Have you ever wondered what is stopping you from feeling happier, more confident, and in control of your future? We live in a society so busy that we can barely hear ourselves think. It is rare that anyone feels truly heard and listened to. I can help you to learn to lead a more authentic, self-actualizing life that works for you. Perhaps you’re looking to take steps towards healing but are unsure where to start.

I offer an evidence-based trauma treatment called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which can be helpful when individuals feel stuck in areas of their lives. Through the utilization of EMDR, people are able to heal from their trauma and integrate their past and present, while envisioning a more hopeful future.

My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults facing behavioral or mental health challenges. I have aided these individuals in working through suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety and trauma. I also specialize in working with women, victims of domestic violence, interpersonal relationship conflicts, and PTSD.

Executive Clinical Director, Allison Malinofsky, LMHC

I am a licensed mental health counselor with a strong clinical background helping those struggling with addiction issues, mood disorders, and life transitions. I like for my approach to be eclectic, incorporating person-centered tenets, psychodynamic themes, and cognitive behavioral skills. I will use active listening to better understand what you’re experiencing, and then incorporate evidenced based practices to help reduce symptoms and improve functioning. Each therapeutic decision is dependent on the theme of the session; therefore, I am flexible in my approach, and defer to you as the expert of your own experience. I know deciding to start therapy, resume therapy, questioning the commitment to therapy, etc., can sometimes be difficult and unclear, so I encourage you to ask questions and share your thoughts as we begin this journey together!

Clinical Supervisor, Tara Massetti, LMHC, EMDR Trained Therapist

Clinical Supervisor, Jacquelyn Rice, LMHC

No one should have to face life’s difficulties alone. My role is to guide, educate and support my clients to function more effectively in their lives. The foundation of my clinical practice is human connection and providing each client with a non-judgmental, safe, and understanding place to be authentically vulnerable. I utilize an eclectic style, adjusting the therapeutic approach to best meet my client’s needs. I pull heavily from the fundamentals of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and other emotionally focused approaches.

I have experience treating clients with a wide variety of concerns and diagnoses including, but not limited to, PTSD and other trauma related disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and co-occurrence of diagnoses. I aim to provide affirming care to all my clients and to work as an ally for those identifying as LGBTQ+. I also work with both adolescents and adults. I look forward to connecting with you and helping you find your peace.

Clinical Supervisor, Magdalena Medina, LMHC, CASAC

I believe that everyone deserves to be seen/heard and has the potential for growth. I am passionate about leading people through various transitions in their lives. Using a guided and empathetic approach, I’m ready to empower you through our sessions together, helping you overcome whatever is holding back your full potential – whether it’s a mental health issue or general life stressor. I intend on working with you to provide you the tools needed to navigate any issues/stressors that may be impacting your current daily functioning and quality of life.

I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Person-centered Therapy, and Strengths Based Therapy. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, children, adolescents, adults, as well as people in the LGBTQIA+ community.

I meet each one of my clients where they’re at and allow them to lead our sessions on topics that are comfortable for them. In return, I actively listen and offer guidance based on equal parts compassion and expertise. I believe this approach cultivates the strongest therapeutic foundation upon which a client’s goals can be achieved.

Clinical Supervisor, Diana Michell, LMHC

I enjoy working with individuals who are struggling with challenging experiences. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, specializing in problem drinking, addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, & intellectual/developmental disabilities. For years, I have practiced the most effective forms of psychotherapy, helping my clients make real, lasting positive improvements in their lives.

I also think it is important to develop meaningful relationships with clients that help them achieve their goals. I believe the therapist and client relationship is the foundation for effective therapy. Ensuring a non-judgmental place for clients to feel comfortable opening up is of utmost importance. I help clients implement coping skills, & use an eclectic approach, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Motivational Interviewing. I am grateful to be a part of the healing journey for so many.

Kisha Heron, LMHC, EMDR Trained Therapist

Do you ever feel like something is missing? Like there is a void that nothing seems to fill? Ever feel bound or trapped by the failures of your past? The regrets of your mistakes? The pressure and weight of depression, anxiety, family strain, and stress ever wear you down and wear you out? Well I believe there is an answer and it is found in wholeness! It is found in the truth of who you are! The unity of the family system. The healing from the past. The acceptance of the present. The hope of the future.

It is my belief that the unique combination of spirituality, talk therapies, and creative art therapeutic techniques are the keys to finding the answers to the brokenness we all experience. I have both personal and professional experience dealing with the brokenness of addiction, struggles of mood disorders, being dually diagnosed, and the pain of trauma.

It is my desire to walk with you on that journey towards wholeness, to truth, to hope. Allow me to be the catalyst of change that you are looking for. I can’t say it will be easy but I am confident that attaining wholeness will be worth it!

Jacqueline Moon, LMHC, EMDR Trained Therapist

Each of us have our unique stories and moments within our lives that may be difficult to express. I believe that these stories are worthy of attention, care, and a safe space.

I am here to listen and hold a space for that story. I strive each day to be intentional in my attitude and behavior in the hopes of being a safe space where you and your story can be acknowledged, and respected.

It is my job and joy to utilize my skillset to help, assist, and guide you at this season. I am hoping that through our talk, tears, and time you will learn to express evaluate, challenge, heal and find freedom.

I recognize that I am seeing a whole individual in front of me, and I do my best to be constantly curious and never assume anything. It is my hope that as we work together on your goals, that you get the clarity, hope and courage to become your story and more. I look forward to meeting you.

Angela Paz, LMHC

Life can feel unmanageable at times, with obstacles such as anxiety, depression, and addiction. However, I can help you process and grow through the trials and tribulations of life, and learn to love yourself again.

I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, family dynamic counseling, reality therapy and addiction counseling.

My dream has been to create a positive therapeutic relationship to help others struggling with mental health issues. Through personal physical challenges, I have worked to build resilience which has shaped me into the person I am today. If you are feeling stagnant, I encourage you to reach out and watch yourself evolve through the therapeutic process.

Aleksandra Chumak, MHC-LP

Jada Williams, MHC-LP

“If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden”. ~ Frances Hodgson Burnett. I strive to create a positive, non-judgmental, and welcoming experience by avoiding a “one size fits all” approach to counseling. My approach is one that is compassionate and empathetic to every situation. I believe in emphasizing your needs as the main priority through a considerate and personalized lens.

My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults from different backgrounds and life experiences including, but not limited to, individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also specialize in working with women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals experiencing difficulties within interpersonal relationships.

My goal is to create a safe space for you to grow and to be your authentic self both in therapy and outside of it.

Cody Pickrodt, LMHC

My approach is person centered and psychodynamic. I use evidence-based therapeutic practices with a foundation in existential therapy. Together, we can uncover the “why,” so you may live with any “how.”

I specialize in personality disorders, anger management, resilience building, adjustments/transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep/insomnia, career counseling/vocational rehabilitation, relationships/dating, the addiction recovery process and smoking cessation. I have the privilege of serving those from the LGBTQ+ community, as well as immigrants, the formerly incarcerated, seniors, families, and couples.
Our work together would be collaborative and personalized to your needs. The initiative to enter therapy demonstrates the will to change. The hardest part in most journeys may be the first step. You would not be alone, and you would have my support all the way.

Hannah Van Ronk, MHC-LP

In my practice, it is my utmost goal that clients feel safe and heard. I strive to accomplish this by creating a counseling atmosphere that is accepting and empathetic. I approach counseling from a person-centered orientation, which means that our sessions are geared towards your wants, needs, and goals. I work to tailor our sessions uniquely for you. In addition, I take a holistic and compassionate approach, considering how our identities and experiences shape our lives and perspectives. Our collaboration can increase self-awareness, challenge negative beliefs and actions, and develop appropriate coping strategies for dealing with life stressors.

My experience as a mental health professional has allowed me the privilege of working with individuals from all walks of life. My specialties include anxiety, depression, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+, stress management, and life transitions. I have a BA and MA in Clinical Art Therapy as well and will implement creativity into my practice when appropriate.

Although taking the first step and being vulnerable can sometimes be uncomfortable, my goal is to provide unconditional support and a safe place to express yourself without fear of being judged. Through our work together, it is my hope that you uncover your power and use it to achieve your goals.

Joylin Santos, MHC-LP

My goal as a therapist is to establish a validating and empathetic environment, so that you may feel supported throughout this part of your journey. My practice encompasses a variety of modalities, including elements of CBT, DBT, Trauma-Focused, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic. Above all, I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. I also hold an M.A. in Clinical Art Therapy and Counseling, which I will implement on an as needed basis.

It is vital to assist individuals in comprehending the various mechanisms that drive our mind and body to respond to external stimuli in different ways. My work is also influenced by a holistic approach, which addresses the whole person, while also emphasizing the mind-body (mental and physical) connection. This approach assists me in viewing individuals in conjunction with their life experiences. I work with individuals experiencing a variety of stressors, including but not limited to, PTSD, anxiety-related disorders, mood disorders, and co-occurrence of mental health disorders. Together, we will explore interpersonal communication skills, implementing boundaries, and much more.

Seeking out support can be stressful, which is why I emphasize developing a safe and comfortable environment for you. I believe in fostering a relationship of ease and connection to help accelerate progress. My priority is helping you achieve your goals during our work together.

Nicole DeAngelis, MHC-LP

As a mental health counselor, I am here to support, guide, and help navigate children, adolescents, and adults through life’s struggles. I started my career as a student assistance counselor working in schools to help children and adolescents navigate their school career, address any mental health issues, and cope with daily life.

I strive to provide an environment of non-judgmental understanding while using a person-centered approach. I believe there is no one else that understands more of what you are going through than you! Therefore, I enjoy working alongside my clients to help in the treatment process. I utilize a combination of approaches, such as person-centered therapy, solution focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma informed therapy. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, grief, crisis, or trauma, I can help you navigate through the murky waters and come out feeling refreshed!

Danielle Denenberg-Avaria, MHC-LP

“Happiness is like a butterfly, the more you chase it, the more it will elude, but if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder.”

Do you struggle to find your path to happiness? Do you feel that your negative thoughts prevent you from reaching happiness? It is often difficult to find the positive in life when the negativity in our lives starts to take priority. I am here to help you reframe negative thoughts and find your way back to happiness. Sometimes it is our own negativity and thought patterns that get in the way of a happy life.

I have worked with a variety of mental health issues, having extensive experience working with obsessive compulsive disorder and individuals in the LGBT+ community. My goal is to create a safe space where there is comfort in disclosing your feelings. I will always address you with unrelenting kindness and acceptance.

Using eclectic modalities of psychotherapy, I work with clients on connecting thought patterns, beliefs, and behaviors as well as identifying, understanding, and altering unhelpful thinking styles. The techniques I use the most include cognitive behavior therapy (especially for those with OCD), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing. However, I am aware that different techniques work for different individuals, and I always look for the therapeutic style most befitting to the individual.

Amanda Mosher, LMHC

I believe counseling is a process that encourages individuals to open up physically, mentally, and emotionally to improve their way of life and reach the goals they set out for themselves. I have experience working with individuals of all ages with anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as intellectual disabilities. My approach to counseling is an integration of Person-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Therapy can be daunting, and my goal is to provide a space that feels safe to explore life’s stressors. I will encourage and empower you to bring awareness toward your strengths and develop coping skills to grow and thrive in your environments.

Jennifer Davidson, MS. Ed., MHC-LP

A deeper understanding of self and self in the world. Therapy is a path of exploration and self-discovery that we will walk together. Using a collaborative approach, I provide space to explore your feelings, beliefs, and motivations in order to deepen your self-knowledge. Being present is where our work together begins. Trust, safety, and non-judgement are tenets that guide my work in helping you reach a more empowered place to more effectively navigate the complexities of life.

My curious perspective allows me to openly listen without judgement. I hold a reflective space for you to explore your inner world in order to better understand yourself. It is in this process of walking toward a more empowered place where you can tap into your strengths in order to function more effectively.

The foundation of my practice is human connection and the power of our work together. Working with people from varying backgrounds and experiences, my areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions and relationship issues.

My orientation is person-centered, focused on the “here and now” and utilizes integrated aspects of cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused and acceptance and commitment modalities. I craft a unique approach to meet the needs of each client I have the privilege to work with.

Andrew Persaud, MHC-LP

My approach to counseling focuses on the therapeutic alliance and working with clients at their own level of comfort. I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment and emphasize creating and expressing security and understanding during sessions.

I have experience working with clients exploring various identities, such as sexual orientation, gender, as well as ethnic and racial identities. I also have experience working with individuals who deal with depression, anxiety, addiction, domestic abuse, self-esteem, ADHD, and relational issues.

I follow a psychodynamic and cognitive behavior approach, placing focus on early childhood and/or past experiences and how these may have shaped current beliefs. Additionally, I will assist in identifying maladaptive thought patterns that can interfere with day-to-day functioning.

I believe the therapeutic process is a unique experience for both of us. It is sacred and should be treated with patience and respect as clients share the most vulnerable parts of their life.

Brianna Mora, MHC-LP

My approach to therapy draws from various modalities to ensure all specific needs are met. Through compassion and empathy, I aim to meet my clients where they are. While holding a non-judgmental space, my clients are able to safely explore and reflect on their life experiences and how to navigate them.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults from various backgrounds and communities. I specialize in working with individuals who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, as well as individuals experiencing interpersonal relationship issues. I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to empower them on their healing journey to live their lives as they wish.

Caroline O’Connell, MHC-LP

Life has constant curve balls and how we deal with changes and challenges ahead can bring us closer to the lines of what we desire. My approach is both strength-based and motivational, it incorporates evidence-based interventions to help you navigate the desired outcomes you are looking for in your life.

My approach is culturally competent, compassionate, and integrative. I utilize techniques consistent with psychodynamic, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and acceptance/commitment based (to name a few!). We can work together on communication skills, reflect on patterns of personality, reframe current situations and then welcome anticipated changes.

I have experience working with a variety of adults including folks struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and personality disorders. I look forward to working together!

Victoria Pitz, MHC-LP, EMDR Trained Therapist

I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Life in an ever evolving and increasingly digital age brings unique stressors that can be difficult to deal with on your own. I treat clients who seek support through life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic stress, complex trauma.

I strive to build meaningful relationships by offering a warm, nurturing, and honest space to help clients uncover the best version of themselves. I engage in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based techniques to promote personal growth and healing for my clients. I am passionate about providing tools to help manage and reduce stress throughout life.

Cristina Porchetta, MHC-LP

Seeking out support can be overwhelming. One of my main goals is to create a safe, empathetic, and accepting environment to explore and achieve your goals.

Throughout my experience, I have been privileged enough to work with a variety of different populations and ages. My specialities include anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. I utilize a variety of approaches such as CBT, DBT, Person-Centered, and Motivational Interviewing.

Through collaboration, gaining and enhancing insight, and implementing new coping tools for your everyday life, we can work on achieving your goals. Life can sometimes throw us curve balls but with the exploration and expansion of your therapeutic tool box, you will be able to confidently manage and move forward with whatever life throws your way.

Robert Popp, MHC-LP

As a dedicated counselor, I employ a holistic approach to help individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve personal growth. My techniques draw from various evidence-based modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and person-centered therapy. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. Together, we work collaboratively to set goals and develop practical strategies to foster positive change and emotional well-being. My commitment to empathy, active listening, and a client-centered approach ensures that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of our therapeutic journey.

Samantha Jacobs, MHC-LP

Life is full of stressors, whether unexpected or planned. It is my goal to provide a safe, warm, supportive and judgement-free space for you to feel heard and understood. We will work collaboratively to build the necessary skills to help you face and overcome these daily stressors or mental health issues that may impact your overall functioning.

I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, strengths-based therapy and mindfulness practices. There are no one-size-fits-all solutions. I personalize your treatment based on your unique needs, strengths and goals.

I firmly believe that when you challenge yourself, you’re opening up an opportunity for growth and healing to occur. Sometimes that process is uncomfortable, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I look forward to beginning this journey with you!

Michael McLarnon, MHC-LP

Sometimes it can feel like life is coming at you from all angles. Past pains haunt while today’s demands stack up to prevent future worries. It can be overwhelming, intense, scary, and disheartening. This can make us feel like we are just not good enough because we cannot keep up or “just deal with it.” As the world has pivoted more toward productivity and away from connection, a sense of isolation has become commonplace. In counselling, you can alleviate old wounds, find new meaning, rediscover strengths, reconnect with others, and develop new skills to help you navigate the things that weigh on you.

I offer an eclectic approach, drawing from several methods of treatment including CBT, DBT, Gestalt, Solution-Focused Therapy and more. From these sources, I will work collaboratively with you to create a semi-structured treatment framework that uniquely addresses your goals and needs as they arise. Working as a team, we combine our knowledge and skills to explore values and needs in a measurable way that brings about healing, growth, and purpose.

I have worked with people from seven to seventy with a variety of developmental and psychological needs. These have included grief and bereavement, OCD, anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality concerns, job loss, immigration and displacement, and civil unrest and violence. I also have extensive experience working with the neuro-variant population.

Brittany Shillingford, LMHC

It is not uncommon for people these days to get busy with life and put themselves last. I know life can throw some pretty mean curveballs. Life can get extremely difficult to navigate, causing stress, anxiety, depression, and anger. Taking the step to come to therapy can be the first in your journey of prioritizing yourself. Mental health is so important and that is why I am passionate about what I do.

I would be honored to work with you, to help you make it through these difficult times and get to a better place. I believe that everyone has the inner resources to heal their wounds and improve their lives. As your therapist, I can help you to access these resources and utilize them to achieve your goals. My objective is to help you discover your full potential, and to be the very best version of yourself. I want my clients to be able to live their lives to the fullest.

I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, as well as clients diagnosed with bipolar disorder and/or borderline personality disorder. As an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am trained to help you make the necessary changes in your life that will allow you to attain fulfillment, ease, and contentment. Let’s get you to where you want to be!