Susan Macey , PhD, LPC, CNC
Clinical Director of the Center for Counseling Families and Manager of Supervision. She is an expert in obesity and trauma-related stressors. Dr. Macey uses a multifaceted approach to counseling, drawing from theoretical approaches such as cognitive behavioral theory, rapid resolution for trauma, and neuro-linguistic programming for lasting change. As a certified integrative nutritionist, Dr. Macey believes that nutrition is a cornerstone for healing the body and the mind. Nutritional therapies may be suggested in the form of dietary changes as well as supplements and amino acids. Dr. Macey's research includes coping styles and weight loss surgery outcomes, and she is working on a study that measures mental health improvements as well as performance improvements over time using biologically correct lighting. She is the chief wellness officer for Antrospheres, an organization dedicated to improving the wellbeing of employees through well-building and employee initiatives. She has worked with area schools, community municipals, as well as the Navy, Marine Corps, and the United Negro Foundation.
As an author and speaker, Dr. Macey has taught workshops and seminars for organizations both nationally and internationally. Her book Powerful Process, Positive Outcome is due out early 2017. Dr. Macey has authored workshops such as The Psychology of Overeating, Chatter that Doesn’t Matter, and Powerful Process, Positive Outcome. Her current book Keeping Weight off Forever is available on Amazon. On line blog: www.susanmacyphd.com
Tammy Pruitt LCSW: Superpower: Kaleidoscope eye sight. Situations are not always black and white, with kaleidoscope vision she is able to see the nuances of situations more clearly. After earning her Master's of Social Work from Gallaudet University in 1999, Tammy worked with individuals who were deaf, hard of hearing, and other disabilities. Her expertise is in the area of grief & loss, death & dying, and transitional l life changes due to aging. Her experience also includes working with LGBT issues such as gender dysphoria and sexual identity issues. trauma work and high-risk behaviors, self harm and addiction. She employs a holistic method of working with mind, body, and spirit which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma resolution. Her goal is to assist clients to learn the skills necessary to navigate life's journey.
Christine Rassa: MA, LPC
Superpower: Infinite learning. The ability to keep an open mind and learn new things fosters resilience and flexibility in thought and in life. Christine earned her master’s in psychology and Clinical Counseling from The Citadel Graduate College in Charleston South Carolina and her undergraduate degree in Psychology from York College of Pennsylvania. She is experienced in Crisis, Trauma, and Disaster Response. Christine works with adolescents and adults. Her specialty includes trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, marriage/couples, and persons experiencing infertility or loss. Her therapeutic practice is to engage a holistic and collaborative approach when working with clients. She uses solution focused and cognitive behavioral techniques designed to support and empower her clients.
Resident Therapists: A resident therapist has a provisional license and is a post graduate therapist completing clinical hours under supervision. All residents have completed up to two years of clinical experience prior to joining our team. They have a plethora of clinical experiences, backgrounds, therapy insights, and knowledge.
Medora Frazier: LPC Resident (Doctorial Candidate)
Superpower: Pain Eraser. The ability to help people live joyously in the here and now. Medora currently attends Howard University pursuing her PhD in Neuropsychology. She attended the University of Maryland Eastern Shore earning her master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. She has experience working with adolescents and adults addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, trauma, and identity development and formation. Her treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness based cognitive therapy.
Anne Marie Manner: MS, LPC Resident
Superpower: Telekinesis: The ability to impact the way a person thinks in order to stop bad things from happening. Anne Marie earned her master's from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Psychology and Counseling. She specializes in youth, families, adults, and couples counseling. Anne Marie utilizes effective evidence based theoretical approaches that include play therapy, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma informed hypnotherapy. She is a trauma informed counselor working with those who experience depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, and relationship issues. She is committed to helping people on their own unique journey toward wellness and recovery.
Abbigail Parker: MS, LPC Resident
Superpower: Flying, able to be where I need to be to help those in need quickly and swiftly. Abbi attended Loyola University and completed her master’s program in Clinical Mental Health at Neumann University. Her counseling experience includes working with clients of all ages, adults, couples, and families. She specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, and end of life issues. Abbi received her undergraduate degree from Bloomsburg University in Theater Arts. As a therapist she uses cognitive behavioral based interventions as well as psychodynamic, and active play therapy. She nurtures a collaborative and creative counseling environment for her clients so they can learn, resolve, and grow through experiences.
Meka Butler: MA, LPC Resident
Superpower: Silent guardian. As a silent guardian, like Batman, keeping a watchful eye and clear head helps foster creativity and possibility in all circumstances. Meka earned her master’s in Psychology and Counseling from Troy University in Pensacola Florida. Her experience working in the Escambia County School District in Pensacola, Florida includes working with students, parents, and family systems as well as children on the Autism Spectrum, ADHD, and other learning disabilities. She has experience with crisis and trauma counseling. Lameka is United States Marine Corps Veteran. She brings a breadth of experience to her clients utilizing CBT, RBT, play, and interactive therapies. Her experience working with families and couples as well as individuals has taught her to be observant and creative in supporting and empowering her clients.
Superpower: Unconditional love (Needs no explaining) From time to time you might see this mighty little girl running about the office. She is energetic and curious and she loves to be petted.
Hutch: Means, hutch...LOL
Superpower: Able leap tall fences and steel your heart. When he is not chasing a ball, eating, or sleeping, you may find him around the office wanting attention. He is friendly, curious, and loves to be fed.
Laney: Named after Va. Tech's Foot Ball Stadium "Lane Stadium"
Superpower: Tale wagging. Laney is a happy puppy who vibrates with excitement constantly. Her happy place is when she is around people. She is fun, wiggly, and always has a smile on her face.