John Longo is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist (LICSW) who specializes in working with adults and elders facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). With a strong educational background from Boston University, graduating in 1980, John approaches his clients with warmth, acceptance, and a collaborative spirit. He firmly believes that establishing a trusting relationship is the cornerstone for navigating life’s hardships and unhelpful thought patterns.<br /> <br /> Utilizing evidence-based practices, John employs Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindful Self-Compassion skills alongside Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to empower his clients. His effective methods have been shown to significantly alleviate symptoms, guiding individuals on how to govern their minds and cultivate new, healthy habits.<br /> <br /> As a practitioner with extensive experience in mindfulness—having attended numerous Insight Meditation retreats—John shares valuable insights that combine both personal and professional experiences. He teaches his clients innovative ways to manage their minds, facilitating the release from negative thoughts and emotions. Through mindfulness practices, cognitive restructuring, and compassion exercises, he helps anchor the wandering mind into a more realistic and empathetic state.<br /> <br /> John’s approach involves interactive sessions where clients can collaboratively plan the changes they aspire to make, incorporating meditation training and CBT strategies to reshape negative thought patterns, including harsh self-criticism. His interventions are designed to offer both short-term relief and long-term structural changes in brain function, allowing for an enhanced sense of well-being.

Kathleen Lovell, MSW, LICSW, RPSGT, is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and therapist who understands that everyone faces challenges at different points in their lives. She is known for her compassionate, interactive, and empathetic approach, creating a space where individuals can feel safe and supported. Kathleen collaborates with her clients to uncover limiting thoughts and beliefs, guiding them to reframe these into empowering narratives that enrich their lives. In her work with couples, she fosters an environment free of judgment, crucial for addressing difficult relationship issues and enhancing communication skills that extend beyond therapy sessions.<br /> <br /> With several years of experience, Kathleen is adept at helping individuals, adolescents, and couples modify maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and psychodynamic approaches, effectively addressing challenges such as trauma, addiction, depression, and anxiety, as well as navigating relationship difficulties. Her expertise extends to those seeking help with insomnia or adjustment issues related to medical diagnoses, offering much-needed mental health support to adults and elders alike.

Jessica Lynn Spater is a compassionate and dedicated clinical social worker and therapist with over 15 years of experience helping individuals, children, teenagers, and families navigate through life's challenges. She understands that many feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unmotivated, and recognizes that families often struggle with issues like anxiety and social skills in their children. Her practice is grounded in creating a supportive and safe environment, which is essential for exploring personal goals and developing skills to bolster overall well-being and confidence. Jessica is passionate about supporting youth and their families, being well aware of the complex stressors influencing healthy development. With a belief that therapy must be tailored to each individual’s unique needs and learning styles, she employs a range of therapeutic modalities such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma Focused approaches. Whether working with individuals or families, Jessica's holistic and culturally sensitive approach aims to foster understanding of family dynamics while addressing the multifaceted roles and challenges they face.

Judy Howell, a licensed counselor with an MEd and LMHC credential, is dedicated to working with individuals of all ages and diverse backgrounds. With years of experience since her graduation from Cambridge College in 2006, she expertly addresses a variety of issues including addiction, mood disorders, and anger management. Judy also extends her compassionate support to those dealing with chronic illness and medical disabilities. Her therapeutic approach incorporates techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy, ensuring that each session is tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients. Utilizing a focus on building strong therapeutic relationships, Judy empowers her clients to create meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. Her mission is to guide each individual towards achieving their therapeutic goals and embarking on a future filled with happiness and productivity.

Meet Rose Wile, a compassionate and dedicated counselor who has been helping clients navigate their challenges since her graduation from Southern New Hampshire University in 2005. Rose understands the profound impact of recent changes in daily life, especially following the pandemic, on both children and adults. She specializes in guiding young clients starting from age 3, recognizing that play is a vital expressive outlet for children facing behavioral issues and anxiety. Her therapeutic approach fosters a warm and nurturing environment where clients feel safe to explore their feelings. Rose employs a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including Expressive Arts, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). She is skilled in various approaches, making her adept at addressing emotional needs in individual, family, and group settings. Additionally, Rose offers convenient Tele-Health services through a safe HIPAA-compliant platform, ensuring that her supportive care is accessible to those who need it.

Margaret Cesati is a dedicated and compassionate Counselor, LMHC, and CADC who provides deep support for adults and elders, particularly those navigating grief, relationship issues, and bipolar disorder. With a rich array of therapeutic modalities including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Trauma Focused, and Compassion Focused approaches, she creates a truly person-centered experience for her clients. Understanding the importance of personal dynamics, Margaret specializes in both individual and family sessions, ensuring her methods are eclectic and adaptable to the unique needs of every participant. Her commitment to fostering healing and growth is evident in her use of Strength-Based and Motivational Interviewing techniques, while her warm, multicultural lens allows her to connect deeply with clients from all walks of life. Through her work, Margaret aims to help individuals and couples build stronger relationships, navigate life's complexities, and achieve emotional well-being.

Barbara Maia is a compassionate counselor, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work with adults navigating life's challenges. With credentials as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), she specializes in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, particularly focusing on PTSD. Passionate about holistic healing, Barbara employs a diverse range of therapeutic modalities including trauma-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and person-centered approaches. Her expertise extends to life coaching, relationship issues, and career counseling, empowering her clients to explore their identities and overcome obstacles. Barbara's understanding of complex subjects such as LGBTQ+ concerns, self-esteem, and family dynamics helps create a safe space where individuals can heal and grow. Her commitment to emotional support and positive psychology enables her clients to find resilience amidst adversity, making her a trusted guide on the journey toward well-being and self-discovery.

Edward Mckinley, MSW, LICSW, is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist dedicated to guiding individuals towards a more fulfilling life experience. He believes that within each person lies the inherent wisdom necessary to meet their needs, yet accessing this knowledge can sometimes prove challenging. Edward assists clients in recognizing self-defeating behaviors, often rooted in past coping strategies that no longer serve them. He has successfully supported numerous individuals in identifying the barriers standing between them and their aspirations, empowering them to break free from constraints and craft a vision that nourishes their spirit. Clients who seek Edward’s expertise often face challenges such as addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and the complexities of life transitions. His broad experience includes confronting the unique behaviors and beliefs that can frustrate personal and professional growth. Alongside his extensive professional credentials, Edward brings a personal understanding of life's struggles and triumphs, which fosters a deep empathetic connection with his clients and provides them with invaluable comfort and support in their therapeutic journey.

Elizabeth Milligan, MEd, LMHC, is a dedicated counselor who believes that achieving a sense of overall well-being and balance requires the health and support of both the mind and body. With a deep understanding of how disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and eating disorders can disrupt this balance, she is committed to helping individuals navigate through these challenges. Elizabeth's treatment approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, employing diverse methodologies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing among others. Her extensive experience spans both outpatient community mental health settings and inpatient care, with specialties that include addiction, family dynamics related to addiction, mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma, grief, and issues related to self-esteem and relationships. Elizabeth cultivates a warm and relaxing environment for her clients, ensuring they feel supported while working toward healing and growth.

Michelle Nickerson is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist, recognized for her compassionate approach to mental health. With her credentials as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice. Michelle is deeply committed to fostering a supportive environment where her clients can explore their emotions and navigate life's complexities. With a strong belief in the power of the therapeutic relationship, she empowers individuals to take meaningful steps towards healing and growth. Michelle’s warm demeanor and genuine interest in her clients’ well-being make her an invaluable ally on their journey to emotional wellness.

Daniel 'Skip' Parks, LCSW, has been a dedicated therapist in private practice since 2000, bringing extensive experience in areas including ADHD therapy, anxiety counseling, depression support, mood disorders, and parenting challenges. Specializing in holistic approaches, he works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, fostering a genuine connection to facilitate healing and growth. As a founding member of River Valley Counseling Services and a former participant in the Amesbury Chamber of Commerce, he maintains strong ties to the Amesbury community. Daniel welcomes individuals and families seeking guidance on their mental wellness journey.

Stephanie Hancox, PsyD, is a dedicated psychologist specializing in the healing arts for adults. Understanding the intense stress that often accompanies modern life, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, she emphasizes the crucial connection between the mind, body, and spirit through Health Psychology. Stephanie utilizes a holistic approach, recognizing that when one aspect of this system is overstressed, it impacts overall well-being, leading to challenges such as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Her therapeutic methods include Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Sound Healing, Expressive Arts, and EMDR, among others. By prioritizing practices like deep circular breathing, she empowers her clients to calm their minds, enhance their problem-solving abilities, and amplify their capacity to make choices. As people become more attuned to their internal resources, they discover paths to greater happiness and health. With over two decades of experience, Stephanie has successfully guided adults in navigating their emotional journeys, helping them develop resilience and confidence within themselves. Conducting her practice via telehealth, she continues to support her clients from her home office in Amesbury, where she enjoys the company of her Wheaten Terrier, Fiona, who can provide a comforting presence if welcomed.

Dr. William R. Newman, a licensed clinical psychologist with 35 years of experience, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of developmental trauma and dissociation. His expertise spans the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma, enabling clients to alleviate both symptoms and the underlying causes of their distress. With a focus on couples and families, Dr. Newman fosters an environment where relationships can flourish through improved communication and a deeper understanding of each person's needs. Clients are guided to connect with their true selves with love and compassion, empowering them to take charge of their own healing journey and make informed, healthy choices for their lives and relationships. Dr. Newman employs a comprehensive approach by integrating Western and Eastern psychological practices, including Buddhist traditions, Energy Psychologies, and Clinical Hypnosis. His methods embrace Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Advanced Integrative Therapy, Heart Assisted Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, and Mindfulness Meditation. Through this holistic integration of mind, body, and spirit, clients embark on a path toward healing, health, wholeness, and happiness. By cultivating understanding and consciousness, they are encouraged to make healthier choices that promote overall wellness, ultimately optimizing their mental, physical, and spiritual health. Dr. Newman’s extensive experience has equipped him to offer diverse psychological and energy healing treatments, positively impacting the lives of thousands over his remarkable career.