Cristina Defuria, LMFT she/her
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and Certified Family Mediator working with individuals, couples and families for over 15 years. Individual counseling includes self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, academic & career choices, depression and anxiety. Couple and Family counseling is dynamic, including pre-marital counseling, family planning, parental burn out, parenting issues, in-law matters, intimacy issues, low sexual desire, infidelity (emotional, physical and internet) recovery, divorce adjustment, and blended family issues, as well as individual issues.
My practice focuses on couples, relationships and families who are going through difficult life transitions and/or experiencing difficult symptoms and stressors. I specialize in couples work. I value each partner’s story and uniqueness as we work towards healing and recovery. My focus is to help people develop insight into the stress they face and work collaboratively to overcome them. I am also trained in the Brainspotting, effective for a wide variety of emotional and somatic conditions often related trauma.
Kaitlyn Tassillo, LPC she/her
I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor (LPC) and certified in Gottman Therapy. I have been in the behavioral health field for 10 years working with adults, couples and families. I have worked in various treatment settings such as inpatient drug and alcohol rehab, outpatient addiction programs and outpatient mental health programs. I have extensive experience in working with individuals who struggle with addiction, depression and anxiety.
During sessions I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. In working with couples I utilize the Gottman approach.
We will work together as a team to achieve the changes you want to see in yourself to create a better life. I know looking for help can be scary and intimidating, but I promise I will make the process as easy as possible. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have.
Nicole Garamella, LMFT she/her
Nicole is an LMFT that works predominantly with couples, families, and individuals through a lens that meets clients where they are in the moment. The focus of treatment is to create a safe space in which people can explore and understand their internal parts and systems, and disrupt old relational patterns that leave them feeling stuck and unsatisfied. Nicole’s primary focuses are in neurodiversity issues, difficult life transitions, infidelity recovery, and trauma.
Nicole uses a trauma-informed, integrated approach rooted in emotionally focused therapy, structural family therapy, and internal family systems. Together with the client, she focuses on identifying parts and relationships that create conflict or discomfort, and works to create an empathetic space focused on healing, boundaries, and disruption of dysfunctional patterns.
Healing can be a difficult journey, but rewarding when we give ourselves permission to be curious about the wounded parts of ourselves and our relationships. Nicole seeks to help increase personal insight and growth, while empowering clients to identify and express themselves collaboratively to reach their desired goals.
Juliana Evangelista, LAMFT she/her
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who earned her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Kean University. I have diverse experience providing trauma-informed care for children, individuals and families within different systems such as the Department of Children Protection and Permanency (DCPP), the adoption system and in mental health settings such as a private psychiatric office and a non profit organization. I strive to provide a safe environment where clients are free to express themselves and work on their growth potential. My foundation is in evidence-based approaches to treatment, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), as well as Structural Family Therapy. I am a trilingual therapist, treating in English, Portuguese and Spanish languages.
Dina, LPC she/her
Welcome, and thank you for considering me as your guide on your personal wellness journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional with a passion for helping individuals overcome the unique challenges they face in today’s world.
With five years of experience, I have helped individuals struggling with substance abuse, anxiety/panic disorders, depression, OCD, and bipolar disorders. I specialize in working with both adult and adolescent clients, providing a safe and supportive environment for them to explore their concerns.
I believe in utilizing evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, and motivational interviewing to empower my clients. By addressing negative thought patterns and behaviors, we can work together to reduce their impact and create a greater sense of peace and well-being.
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be challenging, but by reading this, you have already shown your courage and determination. If you’re ready to embark on your personal wellness journey, I am here to provide guidance and support every step of the way.
Together, we can work towards achieving the positive changes you deserve.
Brandy, LMFT she/her
Brandy (she/her), LMFT earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Mass Communication from the University of Delaware, and her Master of Family Therapy from Drexel University. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, AAMFT (American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy) Approved Supervisor and Clinical Fellow.
Brandy has devoted her career to advocating that relationships are the critical environment for growth, change and healing. She spent over a decade working with families with profound intergenerational complex trauma and significant attachment challenges. From that experience, her clinical specialties have grown to include the influence of early life experiences, quality of relationships and intergenerational transmission of trauma on current functioning. Through research, training and clinical practice, she has seen how unresolved trauma and poor attachment relationships leave people to use unhealthy mechanisms to survive their environments. These patterns of behavior and relating in time no longer serve healthy development and necessitate innovative trauma treatment and supportive and consistent relational support. She is a staunch believer that healing is done in safe relationships with exploration and treatment of and within the multitude of systems each individual and family belong.
She holds advanced certifications in The Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (Level One: Individual and Level Two: Train-the-Trainer), Trauma Art Narrative Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy in addition to multiple modalities of systemic family therapy.
Professionally she has presented on such topics as: complex trauma, attachment challenges, innovative practices in residential care, and families formed by adoption at the Building Bridges Initiative Summer Training Event, the Inaugural Greater Philadelphia Trauma Training Conference, the Northeastern Adoption and Child Welfare Summit, and the International Sanctuary Network Conference.
Brandy teaches Addictions and the Family and Contextual Family Therapy in La Salle’s Counseling and Family Therapy Master’s Program.
Laura Jones MA, LPC she/her
Laura Jones is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) working with adults in individual and group settings for the past 4 years. Laura earned her B.A. in Psychology from Le Moyne College, and her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marywood University.
Laura has worked with people who experience anxiety, depression, substance abuse, life stressors, trauma, ADHD, and Autism. She utilizes a client-centered approach which focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as her foundation, and incorporates elements from Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness activities. Additionally, she has been trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. She is being supervised by Cristina DeFuria, LMFT, to enhance her couples and family therapy skills.
Kasey Ramouth LPC she/her
I have over 6 years experience in individual and group counseling, with a focus on depression, anxiety, substance abuse, navigating big life changes, and improving communication. In a digital and virtual world, I’m passionate about helping people re-connect with real people in real life to have more meaningful relationships. Facing big life changes (a move, a career switch, marriage, parenthood)? I’d be honored to help you navigate that change and feel a little more clarity and confidence.
I use a multi-faceted approach, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused treatment, and person-centered therapy. Together, we can see if there are some patterns in your thinking that are keeping you “stuck” and see if we can challenge some of those patterns. We can find ways to address problems in your life by making small changes in a way that feels manageable to you.
A little about me: I work virtually, and my dog may join in sometimes from the couch. I’m a New Jersey native who enjoys hiking, biking, climbing, and traveling. I graduated from Monmouth University with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling in 2018 and have been working in the field since then.
Ana, LAMFT she/her
Jessica, LSW she/her
Diane, LAMFT she/her
Jessica, MA she/her
Dana, LPC she/her
Joanne, LAMFT she/her
Armand, LAMFT he/him
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, operating under supervision with Cristina DeFuria, LMFT. I bring a unique perspective to sessions with my own varied academic experience, and I take a client-centered approach, meeting each person where they are. With a background in engineering, I am trained to conceptualize what makes things run smoothly and efficiently, and how to identify what ‘parts’ are not working. As a therapist, I use that same systemic lens to guide couples, families, and individuals to identify what is not serving them and change their patterns to promote long-term sustainability and contentment. My work and education centers around neurodiversity struggles, parenting issues, conflict resolution, infidelity recovery, life transition stress, and pre-marital counseling, developmental stages transitions, and blended family issues.
I look forward to working with each client with an empathetic, holistic view, and I encourage those willing and eager to see positive change in their lives to reach out!
Stephanie, LAMFT she/they
I am a Licensed Associate in Marriage and Family Therapy, practicing under the supervision of Cristina DeFuria, LMFT. I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), helping clients deepen emotional expression and strengthen the bonds within their relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families, offering a compassionate and nonjudgmental space for growth and healing.
My goal is to support clients in exploring their inner experiences, understanding recurring patterns, and fostering meaningful change. I am deeply committed to honoring each client’s unique story, while also paying close attention to the shared narratives that emerge within relationships.
With an empathetic and humanistic approach, I encourage clients to embrace change and cultivate a greater sense of connection, clarity, and fulfillment. I look forward to walking alongside you in your therapeutic journey.
Kimberly, LAC she/her
Alexis Giuffrida, LAMFT
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, my work centers on individuals, couples & families, guided by a systemic approach that considers the broader context of each client’s experiences.
I have diverse experience supporting survivors of sexual violence, as well as their families and significant others. In my practice, I prioritize creating a space where clients can express themselves freely and grow at their own pace. I believe that meaningful growth happens in environments that allow room for exploration, support, and even trial and error.
My therapeutic foundation is rooted in Structural Family Therapy (SFT). As a therapist, my goal is to foster an environment that encourages growth and change—one that is tailored to each client’s unique needs. I work to meet clients where they are, engaging them in ways that feel accessible and authentic. I also believe that change begins both within and around us. For that reason, I help clients reshape their personal narratives in empowering ways that support their goals and desired life changes.
Keri, LAC
Keri is a Licensed Associate Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with both adults and children. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier coping skills. Keri approaches counseling with compassion and understanding, creating a supportive environment where clients feel heard and empowered to make meaningful changes.
Heidi M. Hartmann, MSW, LSW & CY (Therapy Dog)
Heidi Hartmann is a Licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in social services across educational and nonprofit settings. She currently serves as a Mental Health Interventionist at Southern Regional School District, where she supports students and families through counseling, crisis intervention, advocacy, and community resource coordination.
Her career spans leadership roles in youth shelters, crisis intervention units, and nonprofit administration, including Director of Operations and Interim Co-Executive Director at Ocean’s Harbor House. Heidi brings extensive expertise in trauma response, adolescent mental health, program development, and staff training.
She is a certified Therapy Dog Handler, award-winning school professional, and dedicated community leader, serving as President of Habitat for Humanity of Southern Ocean County and previously representing Region II on the Runaway & Homeless Youth Advisory Board.
Heidi holds a Master of Social Work from Stockton University, a School Social Worker Certificate, and is licensed in the state of New Jersey.
Internship Program
Mark Sedlak PMHNP-BC he/him
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes an integrative, patient-centered, holistic approach to mental health. I work with both children and adults. My approach utilizes the latest evidence-based treatment guidelines and incorporates medications, therapy, natural supplements, and life style changes to nourish a client’s overall well-being. My goal is to assist patients in obtaining their optimal mental health. Learn more www.risingswellmentalhealth.com
After an initial evaluation, I will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan that focuses on your needs and wants. You will have an active role in determining the course of treatment. Treatment may include medications, therapy, and other complementary modalities to improve your mental health.
Jennifer Garamella, MFT she/her
I am a Master’s-level Marriage and Family Therapist trainee at National University, currently practicing under the supervision of Cristina DeFuria, LMFT. With a background in school systems and adolescent mental health, I specialize in working with couples and families, grounded in the belief that our relationships and attachments are among our greatest tools for healing and growth.
As a trauma-informed therapist, my goal is to help clients reconnect with their emotions and explore their wounded parts in order to better understand and meet their needs. I primarily integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my work, offering a holistic and compassionate approach. I believe that the various roles we play—in our families, communities, and inner worlds—deeply shape our lived experiences, and I aim to hold space for each of them in therapy.
Aryanna Arce
I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Georgian Court University. Upon graduating in 2027, I plan to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and build a career in private practice.
I have a deep passion for helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD find comfort and rediscover their path toward healing and growth. My goal is to create a warm, supportive space where clients feel safe to explore their emotions and experiences without judgment.
Skye Watt