Our counselors offer counseling for teens in Newton, MA

Hello, my name is Alisha VanHillo. I’m a pre-licensed mental health clinician with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Merrimack College, where I graduated in May 2025. I am currently working toward licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Massachusetts. My clinical experience includes supporting individuals and families navigating mental health concerns, substance use, trauma, crisis, and significant life stressors.

My approach is compassionate, person-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based and collaborative. I tailor therapy for each client, whether working with children and adolescents on building trust or supporting adults navigating difficult emotions, stress, and life transitions. My experience in crisis settings deepened my appreciation for compassionate care.

I believe meaningful therapy begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and collaboration. You do not need to have all the answers before beginning. Every person’s journey is different, and you do not have to navigate yours alone. If you or your child is ready to take the next step, I invite you to schedule an appointment.

I am a dedicated mental health clinician supporting individuals across a broad spectrum of conditions, including generalized anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, self-esteem struggles, family conflict, and major life transitions. I also work with individuals navigating stress related to school, work, relationships, and legal or systemic involvement. I offer a steady, compassionate presence while encouraging accountability, resilience, and growth—meeting each person where they are and supporting them at a pace that is realistic and sustainable.

My approach is grounded in person-centered care, clinical structure, and practical skill-building. I integrate CBT, strengths-based interventions, and trauma-informed care to help clients build insight, emotional regulation, and healthier coping strategies. I'm someone who listens deeply and helps you build real tools for life outside of sessions.

If you've been quietly carrying more than most people realize, I want you to know that I see that. You deserve a space where you don't have to perform or overexplain. Wherever you are—overwhelmed, numb, motivated, or hesitant—you are worthy of support. Change doesn't require fearlessness; it simply asks that you be willing.

I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences, develop greater self-awareness, and build upon the strengths and resources you already possess.

My approach is strength-based, person-centered, and individualized, tailored to your needs and goals. I draw from CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, stress, and self-esteem challenges.

Above all, I believe in meeting clients with compassion, respect, curiosity, and acceptance. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths, increase your sense of agency, develop effective coping strategies, and move toward a life that feels more meaningful and aligned with your values. You don't have to navigate life's challenges alone.

Hello, I'm Zhiran (Jack) Li, a Mental Health Counselor with 4 years of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions. As an international student and immigrant, I understand the unique pressures of balancing expectations, adapting to change, and finding a sense of belonging. I often work with clients who feel overwhelmed, stuck in patterns of overthinking, struggling with self-doubt, or seeking greater clarity, confidence, and direction in their personal and professional lives.

My approach is collaborative, practical, and goal-oriented. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy, I help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience. Clients can expect a supportive, nonjudgmental space where they gain insight and tools to create meaningful change.

I know reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and I honor the courage it takes to begin. My hope is to provide a space where you feel understood, supported, and not alone in what you're facing. If you're ready to start making meaningful change, I invite you to take the next step and begin this process together.

John Cleary is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience. He specializes in working with teens, adults, and seniors who have a range of concerns, including chronic illness, depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, behavioral problems, and anger.

John earned a Master’s in Social Work from West Virginia University. He uses a variety of clinical approaches targeted to specific needs and challenges, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.

John understands how important it is to find someone you can trust with your goals, and he would love to hear your story and explore how he can best help you. Reach out today to schedule an appointment with John!