Our therapists provide anxiety therapy in Allentown, PA

My name is Ilyssa Carsia, CRNP, PMHNP-BC. I have worked as an inpatient nurse in medical-surgical settings, and I have also worked as an outpatient nurse in rehabilitation and behavioral health settings. I am passionate about my chosen profession as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I love learning about and connecting with others. In particular, I enjoy helping others navigate major life transitions. I understand how past experiences shape current mental health challenges, and I help patients process difficult experiences and build resilience. I have expertise in treating anxiety and mood disorders with a holistic approach.

I like to take a person-centered approach, helping people work towards their ideal self. I have a deep understanding of how early childhood experiences and familial relationships can affect and shape development and personality. I am skilled at helping people recognize unconscious beliefs, emotions, and relational patterns.

Whatever you may be going through, I am here to be an ongoing source of support, guidance, and encouragement. I look forward to hearing from you and learning about your unique story, challenges, and treatment goals!

I am a licensed professional counselor and school psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with children, adults, and families in community, outpatient, and school settings. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma, and I also bring extensive experience supporting clients with autism, learning disabilities, and intellectual disabilities. I believe in every person's capacity for growth, and I tailor my approach to each individual's strengths and needs.

My work is grounded in empathy and active listening. Using evidence-based approaches—including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and client-centered therapy—I work collaboratively with clients to build emotional resilience, strengthen coping skills, and foster lasting change.

Life is full of demands: work, family, relationships, and everything in between. You don't have to navigate it alone. I look forward to working with you—book a session and let's start uncovering your best self together.

Sheri Durricks is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with adult clients, including individuals, couples, and families. She has over 15 years of experience treating substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, domestic violence, and other life challenges.

Sheri graduated from Lincoln University with her Master's degree in Counseling and Human Services. She then went on to pursue her education at Walden University, earning her Doctoral degree in Social Policy and Human Services. Sheri uses a variety of treatment approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), mindfulness, and positive psychology, to name a few.

Sheri is confident that she has the insight, knowledge, and tools to assist you with navigating through challenging situations and feelings. With her, you will learn how to view things from another perspective. If you're ready, schedule your appointment with her today.

Marianne Bartos is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania who has over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic care to adult clients who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, difficult life transitions, and many other areas of difficulty.

Marianne completed her Masters of Clinical and Counseling Psychology at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. She is able to utilize strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches to therapy while maintaining the flexibility and awareness necessary to meet the needs of each individual. Marianne establishes a warm and caring relationship with each person in order to assist in building on their strengths and work with them to meet their goals.

Her own personal goal is to help clients live the meaningful life that they value and desire. Marianne knows that clients are an essential part of the treatment team and takes pride in ensuring that everyone is given adequate education and resources needed to make sound decisions in their care.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who works with adults navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. I specialize in helping individuals who feel tired, overwhelmed, and unsure of their next step, but are ready for change. I work with clients who are carrying more that they let others see and help them gain clarity, build healthier patterns, and feel more grounded and in control of their lives.

My approach is warm, supportive, and grounded in evidenced -based practices such as CBT and mindfulness. I help clients better understand the patterns behind their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while developing practical tools to manage stress, build healthier habits, and create meaningful, lasting change.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you've been carrying so much on your own. You don't have to have everything figured out to begin. You deserve a space where you feel supported, understood, and not alone. When you're ready, I'm here to walk alongside you in the process of growth and healing.

Within the last 12 years, Nicole Dunn, MA, LPC, NCC provided support in the field of counseling to nurture and empower the potential for beneficial progress, enriching life, both individually and within relationships. Nicole is motivated in her efforts towards using skill-building approaches, as well as passionate about using a systemic focus, providing understanding of people both individually, as well as within their relationships with others, and within other systems and communities, helping others towards positive growth and adjustment, mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, and physically. Nicole has worked with individuals, children and adults, and families, in Butler, Mercer, Venango, and Allegheny counties for many years, inspired by the concept that individuals relate to a context, one that is shaped and reshaped in social situations, influencing how people see themselves and their roles in relation to the larger world, as well as how they interpret and interact with that world. Nicole has focused on utilizing approaches that help with anxiety, mood disorders, depression, trauma, stress management, and relational conflict, among other areas, seeing individuals as capable of building change, empowered by collaboration within the therapeutic relationship, nurturing and unlocking the potential towards progress and success. Nicole is originally from New Orleans and has lived in Pennsylvania since 2000. Nicole is currently working on a Master of Writing degree at SUNH, and also seeks to bridge the understanding and processing of internal experience associated with movement through the outside world, whether related to stress, trauma, anger, or anxiety, through the power and release of writing.

Historically, Nicole has completed her service through Americorps, helping diverse populations in various settings, as well as working in behavioral health settings with children, adolescents, teenagers, and their families, focusing on the myriad of developmental stages of life. Nicole has also worked, through behavioral programs, with children diagnosed with autism and also through PARC, with individuals diagnosed with intellectual disabilities. Nicole has earned her Master of Counseling degree at SRU, through a CACREP-accredited program, proceeding to completion of the requirements for acquiring PA licensure in professional counseling, as well as earning certification in both multisystemic and family-based therapies. Nicole specializes in individual therapy, working with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults, as well as providing family therapy. Her areas of expertise and eclectic foci include narrative and solution-focused therapies and postmodern social constructivist therapies, structural and strategic family therapies, as well as multisystemic therapy, REBT, behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and dialectical behavioral therapy, among other approaches. Nicole collaborates with individuals, couples, parents, and families, encouraging viewpoints through wider, multiple lenses when considering issues, and nurturing others toward envisioning holistic healing and change.

Nicole is committed to empowering clients with the tools, training, and knowledge to foster optimal growth in the journey forward. Through the use of eclectic and evidence-based strategies, she is able to effectively help her clients with a variety of skills, facing and addressing struggles and challenges, towards developing and solidifying confidence and resilience.

I am a licensed associate professional counselor (LAPC) with 5 years of experience working with children, families, and adults. My work is trauma-focused and supports individuals navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, and the lasting impact of abuse or assault. I understand how overwhelming life can feel and approach therapy with care for both emotional experiences and how the body and nervous system hold stress and trauma.

I earned my master’s in clinical and counseling psychology from Chestnut Hill College. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and view treatment as a collaborative process. My work draws from somatic therapy, psychodynamic therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

My presence in the therapy space is warm, calm, and open. Sessions with me are conversational, reflective, and gently challenging, while centered on creating a space where you do not have to filter yourself. I work alongside you to reconnect with your strengths, build insight, and create meaningful, lasting change.

My name is Connie Uff, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have had the privilege of supporting clients through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship conflict, and life transitions. My approach empowers clients to manage thoughts and emotions, strengthen boundaries, and navigate change with resilience and clarity.

I earned my Master’s in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My therapeutic style is grounded, empathetic, and collaborative. I use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and faith-based practices to meet clients where they are.

I believe you do not have to walk through life’s challenges alone. Whether you seek guidance, validation, or tools to change unhelpful patterns, I support you. Together, we can create space for healing and growth so you can move forward with strength and hope.

Jessica Smith is a Licensed Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. She works with clients ages 3 to 70, with expertise in supporting individuals with women’s issues, stress, depression, anxiety, family challenges, work-life balance, grief, addiction, behavioral concerns, identity struggles, and trauma. Her career spans outpatient clinics, crisis intervention, structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatry, large nonprofits, and private practice. Jessica’s ideal client seeks a safe space to navigate struggles and build resilience, improve coping skills, restore balance, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves.

Jessica received her Master’s in Social Work from Marywood University. Through a collaborative, culturally sensitive, goal-focused approach, Jessica empowers clients to heal, grow, and create lasting positive change. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and psychoanalysis.

Jessica understands that seeking help is a courageous step. She is committed to providing a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their challenges and work toward meaningful change. She encourages potential clients to reach out when they feel ready to embark on this journey.

Dawn Grochowiak is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, children & adolescents, and families. There is not a “one size fits all” approach to therapy, so Dawn will spend time understanding her clients’ experiences. Dawn will work to develop a personalized approach to address issues like stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or family and relationship issues. Dawn is passionate about building upon clients’ strengths, instilling hope, and providing a safe, warm, and accepting space to look inside and explore thoughts and feelings.

Dawn received a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. Dawn began her career in a mental health setting founded on principles of Quaker treatment and grounded in client-centered care. Dawn uses various treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and mindfulness.

Navigating the ups and downs of life can feel heavy sometimes. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, Dawn is a seasoned clinician, ready to support you and to build the skills necessary to help you achieve your goals.

Rasmill Espiritu is a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 9 years of professional experience assisting a widely diverse community including individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and adjustment disorders. Moreover, Rasmill has great experience assisting couples and families in creating healthy boundaries, improving emotional intelligence, and encouraging emotional independence in adults and adolescents. 

Rasmill graduated from Kutztown University with a Master's degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family therapy. In therapy, she utilizes a wide range of therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). However, most clients would say Rasmill’s smile, empathy and understanding are what make her unique and easy to connect with. 

Rasmill is a firm believer that change comes from within, and knows that each person has the key to unleash their maximum potential; sometimes it is just a matter of stumbling onto the right person (or counselor) to help you find it.

I am a licensed associate professional counselor (LAPC) with 6 years of experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, crises, and life transitions. I specialize in helping clients explore how past experiences shape their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. My background includes crisis work, inpatient care, and trauma-informed support, and I am passionate about helping clients feel more grounded, confident, and in control of their lives.

I earned my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania. My approach is integrative and client-centered, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused strategies to help clients challenge unhelpful patterns and build practical coping skills.

I believe everyone has the capacity to heal, even when life feels overwhelming. I strive to create a safe, empathetic space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we can develop tools that foster clarity, resilience, and emotional well-being. When you are ready, I am here to help you take the next step.

Walka Estevez is a bilingual (Spanish, English) therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field working with adolescents, adults (female, male), providing them individual, family and group therapy. Walka is specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, oppositional and defiant behavior.

Walka completed her Master's degree in family therapy at The Autonoma University of Santo Domingo, in The Dominican Republic. Walka has a dedicated to provide guidance and support to her client through different therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT), dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and person-centered therapy.

During this challenging times taking care of your mental heath is a priority. Walka can help you to process your challenges and support you throughout your process by providing you appropriate strategies that might help you to manage with what you are struggling with. If you need the right help, schedule an appointment with her today.

Jonathan Egge is a Navy veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 13 years of experience in therapy with veterans while working at the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. He works with a wide variety of clients: People suffering or struggling in their lives with their feelings, thoughts, and actions, resulting from their life experiences. People who have struggled to find help, support, and acceptance from family, friends, and even service providers. People, who want to live a normal life, achieve in life, see life through a different lens, and grow as a person. Jonathan works with all people, though, regardless of what circumstances apply to you! 

Jonathan is a cognitive therapy specialist, highly capable of treating any Axis I or II Disorder. He is certified in EMDR, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. He has extensive practice experience in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Gestalt Therapy and uses motivational interviewing, supportive counseling, and life coaching as approaches to support treatment within all modalities. 

Other areas of disorder expertise are Substance Abuse Treatment & PTSD (including combat-related, military, or other sexual traumas, victims of violence, and victims of accidents). Jonathan promotes a simplistic approach to therapy and believes his biggest contribution to work in therapy is hope for the people he works for to grow as a result of collaboration, building healthy rapport, focusing on and practicing symptom managing, communication and relationship skill-building, and providing critical information about living therapeutically. 

Olivia Dalton is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 9 years of experience. She specializes in disordered eating concerns, perfectionistic thinking, anxiety, depression, family systems, attachment styles, and authentic personal growth and development. Olivia’s clinical work is rooted in validated theories and techniques and is consistently enriched by the latest research in psychology, neuroscience, and biology. She operates from a holistic perspective that values the mind-body connection.

Olivia has a Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling from Cambridge College. She combines a variety of therapeutic approaches with an exploration of family history, community, and support systems. Because everyone is unique, Olivia partners with each client to discover their innate strengths and provide appropriate resources.

Olivia believes you are not your symptoms or your diagnosis. Healing and change are hard, but never out of reach. Olivia offers a safe place to embrace your truest self and work toward acceptance, growth, and a fulfilling existence. Schedule an appointment today!