OUR THERAPISTS

The Best Counseling Team in Town

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OUR TEAM

Meet Our Therapists

Matthew Mark Albright

Matthew Mark Albright, LPC

Matthew Mark Albright, President and lead clinician of Brightside Counseling LLC, obtained a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Villanova University. Matthew became a Licensed Professional Counselor in June of 2009. He has been working in private practice for the last six years. Matthew has been working in the mental health field since 2000, and has extensive experience working in a variety of settings. Matthew’s specialty areas include children, adolescents and young adults utilizing an eclectic therapeutic model.

Alphonso Nathan

Alphonso Nathan, LPC

Alphonso Nathan, Vice President and lead home-based clinician, obtained his undergraduate degree from Bloomsburg University and graduate degree from Chestnut Hill College. Alphonso is a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Licensed Behavioral Specialist. His specialties include life coaching, sports psychology, educational advocacy, school observations, parenting strategies, anxiety management, depression, behavioral issues, anger management, preschool difficulties, teen defiance, school related difficulties, family therapy, social skills development, autism spectrum disorder, distant counseling and children coping with divorce.

Christine Coates

Christine M. Coates, LPC

Christine Coates received her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Christine has worked in a variety of  mental health settings for over 10 years, and currently provides individual and group counseling to children, adolescents and adults. Christine specializes in treating anxiety, phobias, ADHD, autism spectrum, depression, eating disorders and bereavement. Christine is also an adjunct professor of psychology at Delaware County Community College.

Nicola Brooks

Nicola Brooks, LPC

Nicola Brooks received her Master’s in Counseling from Wilmington University and received Certification in Divorce Mediation after extensive training and supervision. Nicola is a Licensed Professional Counselor and mediator who has many years of experience working in the mental and behavioral health fields. Nicola works with teenagers and adults utilizing individual, couple/marital and family therapy modalities. Nicola specializes in areas of human sexuality, trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, stress management and relationship problems.

Raquel Riad

Raquel Riad

Raquel Riad received her Master’s in Social Work from Bryn Mawr College in 2007 and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in multiple settings. Raquel also worked as a school social worker and has knowledge and experience pertaining to 504 plans and Individual Education Plans. Her specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, social skills, trauma, and autism spectrum disorders.

Steven Gursky, LCSW

Steven Gursky

Steven Gursky has worked with all age groups in many settings (including Jewish Community Centers, Wraparound, prison, outpatient therapy) with individuals, families and with groups. His Masters degree is in Social Work and is  a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both PA and NJ. He is EMDR trained (a therapy which has proven to be very successful with single incident trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). EMDR is currently being used for a variety of concerns including Anxiety, Depression and pain ailments such as Fibromyalgia and Migraine Headaches. While Steve uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and unmet developmental needs therapy he is always exploring additional therapies. Each person he works with has their own unique set of needs and therapy that is unique to each person. He now treats Headaches and Migraines with Integrated EMDR. Most headaches can be described on a scale of zero to ten with ten being the most painful.

Katrina Frydlewicz, LCSW

Katrina Frydlewicz, LCSW

Katrina Frydlewicz, LCSW is a therapist at Brightside Counseling, LLC. She has been working in the mental health field since 2002 after obtaining her graduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Social Work and undergraduate degree from The Pennsylvania State University in Human Development and Family Studies. Her professional experience has focused on adolescents, adults and families with a variety of mental health issues including: anxiety disorders, depression, grief, chronic illness, stress management and life transitions. She uses a variety of techniques in treatment to best meet the needs of the individual building from their strengths with a positive approach to help the client reach their personal goals.

Jessica Hackett-Smith, LPC

Jessica Hackett-Smith, LPC

Jessica Hackett-Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Behavior Specialist who received her  Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Chestnut Hill College. She has been working in the mental health field since 2004 providing counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. Her specialty areas include: Functional Behavior Assessment, Behavior Modification, Parenting Strategies, Couples Counseling, Social skills development, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bereavement and Trauma.

Arielle Butler

Arielle Butler, MSW, LCSW

Arielle is a bilingual licensed social worker.  She obtained a masters degree  in social work from Edinboro University. She also obtains a Master’s degree in Health Education and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, which she obtained from Arcadia University. She has worked over a decade with the childware system.  She has experience working with veterans,families, children adolescents and adults. She has a background working with clients from various backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities. She is experienced with adoption, fostercare, child prep, profiles,finalizations, family group decision making and hospital social work. Her specialties include but are not limited to anxiety, adoption preparation, depression, cognitive issues, behavioral issues, anger management, grieving, reunification, ADHD, self-harm and veteran services.

Mylira Green, LCSW, CCTP

Mylira Green, LCSW,CCTP

I am licensed in Virginia with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Deepa Parthasarathy

Deepa Parthasarathy, LPC

Deepa Parthasarathy is Licensed Professional Counselor who obtained her Masters in Counseling from Villanova University in 2002.  Licensed since 2007, Deepa has been a Family based therapist for 5 years and a Behavior consultant and Mobile therapist for over a decade.  She specializes in a Client centered approach and in meeting clients where they are.  She empowers and supports parents with strategies for raising kids with special needs including anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder. Deepa has worked with parents to develop parenting strategies to address preschool and school related difficulties and social skills development. She has years of experience with individual, family and couples therapy.
Nick DiPasquale

Nick DiPasquale

Nick DiPasquale received his Master’s of Science Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Chestnut Hill College and is working toward obtaining licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) under the direct supervision of Matthew Mark Albright. Nick was trained from a psychodynamic lens and utilizes evidence-based approaches including positive psychology and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches. Nick has two years of postgraduate work within a community mental health setting that offered a wide range of diversity and dealt with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, identity, and relationship issues. Nick promotes a supportive, empathetic, positive, and safe therapeutic space for clients to explore their struggles and focus on growth.

Kresence Campbell

Kresence Campbell, LPC

Kresence Campbell is a highly dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with over 10 years of experience. Her personal journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance has fueled her profound understanding of the significance of self-care and the power of mental health. Holding a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Eastern University, Kresence is a licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both Pennsylvania and Connecticut, as well as a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Kresence’s extensive expertise has been honed through her work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, ranging from early childhood to adulthood. She firmly believes in taking a holistic approach to therapy, recognizing that true healing involves addressing the underlying causes of challenges and fostering overall well-being.

Christina Chokas

Christina Chokas, M.S.

Christina Chokas is a compassionate mental health professional currently working towards becoming a licensed professional counselor (LPC). She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Holy Family University. With experience in community mental health settings, Christina has provided individual and group counseling for a diverse range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. Christina specializes in evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). She has a particular passion for working with teenagers and is dedicated to creating a supportive and collaborative therapeutic environment. Christina’s goal is to help clients of all ages reach their treatment goals and enhance their overall mental well-being.

Tashay Meares

Tashay Meares

Meet Tashay Meares, a compassionate therapist and graduate of Chestnut Hill College with a Masters in Clinical and Counseling Psychology. Tashay’s strengths lie in her engaging personality and her holistic background in Massage Therapy, Skin Care, and Yoga. With a concentration in Marriage & Family Therapy, she believes in healing the family as a unit and assisting individuals in their personal growth journey. Tashay takes a solutions-focused approach, helping clients understand life patterns and collaboratively creating plans for a more desired future. Her expertise includes play therapy techniques for children, incorporating art, music, and coping skills training for individuals and families. Tashay has also developed a telehealth group therapy program for children diagnosed with Autism, demonstrating her adaptability to modern therapeutic needs.

With experience as a Therapeutic Support Staff (TSS), Mobile Therapist (MT), and Lead Clinician (LC), Tashay is currently a candidate for her License as a Behavior Specialist. She is passionate about telehealth therapy, recognizing its effectiveness and significance in our modern world. With her warm and caring demeanor, Tashay Meares is dedicated to guiding clients through their healing journey and helping them achieve balance and well-being, inside and out.

saudiah

Saudiah Lawrence

Saudiah Lawrence, a graduate of Temple University, is a distinguished expert in the field of Social Work, with a particular focus on health and mental health. Leveraging her holistic approach, Saudiah guides her clients towards tailored solutions that best suit their individual needs. Her expertise is profoundly recognized in the areas of depression, anger, trauma, and anxiety management. Saudiah’s dedication to empowering her clients and her unwavering commitment to their well-being sets her apart in her field.

Darnetta Armistead, MSW, CSAC, LCSW-S

Darnetta Armistead

Darnetta Armistead, MSW SAC, LCSW-S, is a revered figure in the realm of social work, passionately dedicated to guiding individuals through life’s challenges and helping them unearth their innate potential for healing and growth. With a practice deeply rooted in empathy and authenticity, she creates a sanctuary of safety and non-judgment, ensuring every client feels seen, heard, and understood. Darnetta brings to the table a rich tapestry of experience, having worked with a diverse range of clients, and remains steadfastly committed to inclusivity and continuous professional development in her pursuit to offer unparalleled care.
Specializing in a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-focused therapy, she meticulously tailors her approach to meet the unique needs and aspirations of each individual. Darnetta’s ultimate goal is to empower her clients to lead fulfilling lives, supporting them on their transformative journey towards mental and emotional well-being. For those seeking a therapist with unwavering support and commitment to their growth, Darnetta extends a warm invitation to join her and explore the pathway to achieving one’s goals.
Violet Benner

Violet Benner, M.S.

Violet Benner, MS, a graduate of Chestnut Hill College, combines her person-centered and adaptable therapeutic approach with 15 years of specialized experience assisting individuals with disabilities and/or autism. Skilled in ACT & CBT modalities, Violet is well-equipped to support clients through various life transitions and is particularly adept at working with those experiencing significant changes, such as shifts in career, relationships, and education. Her relatable, supportive nature, and commitment to individualized care create a trusting and open environment for her clients. Motivated by a natural desire to serve, Violet aspires to continue growing in her role, potentially supervising future clinicians, and exploring the possibility of having her own practice. She is available for both in-office and virtual sessions, offering flexible availability to meet her clients’ needs. For consultations or to schedule a session, Violet can be contacted via email or phone.

Meghan Golder, MSW

Meghan Golder, MSW

Meghan (Meg) Golder received her Master’s of Social Work (MSW) degree from St.Thomas University in St. Paul, Minnesota and is working towards obtaining her clinical licensure (LICSW) under the direct supervision of Mylira Green. Meg is a trauma informed and trained mental health practitioner, who utilizes a client-centered, strengths-based approach. She incorporates aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Meg has a deep passion and dedication for working with those who struggle with anxiety, panic, life transitions, trauma/attachment issues and low self worth. She is focused on creating a non-judgemental, authentic environment in which client’s feel safe exploring ways in which they can improve their mental and emotional well-being. Meg’s goal is to help clients cope with and heal from their past or present struggles in order to thrive as they move forward.

Jenn Kiblinger

Jenn Kiblinger, MA

Jenn Kiblinger has worked in the field of counseling since graduating from Liberty University in 2017 with a Master of Arts degree, Professional Counseling, and is working on licensure. Jenn has worked with all ages, in a variety of clinical settings, including outpatient, substance use and partial hospitalization programs and specializes in working with teen and young adult clients with ASD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, gender, and family issues. Jenn is solution focused and uses an eclectic collaborative approach, providing a warm, supportive environment for clients.

Kestia Lipscomb, MSW, LSW

Kestia Lipscomb, MSW, LSW

I’m Kestia, a dedicated and compassionate licensed social worker. With a Master’s in Social Work from Monmouth University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rowan University, I bring a blend of academic rigor and practical experience to my therapeutic approach.

For years, I’ve been privileged to walk alongside teens and young adults as they navigate the twists and turns of life. Whether it’s the pressures of school, challenges at work, complexities of personal relationships, or dynamics within the family, I’m here to provide support and guidance.

Together, we’ll explore various techniques including role-play, mindfulness exercises, engagement with media, and traditional psychotherapy methods. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and work towards achieving your personal goals.

Nicole Phillips, M.A. C.

Nicole Phillips, M.A. C.

Nicole is a Master’s level clinician in counseling. She comes with over seven years of experience
in counseling. Nicole is an advocate/community agent. Nicole’s vocation is to work with the
vulnerable and marginalized population. The population that she specializes in are adults. Her
forte is substance abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem issues. Her
goal as a clinician is to walk alongside clients to help them tap into their being and purpose.
Using a methodology that consist of love, compassion, empathy, and always cognizant of being
non-judgmental. As a therapist Nicole’s objective is to assist clients in coping with life’s
stressors that manifest in ways such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Nicole’s primary
intervention technique is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, she is astute in many
other therapeutic interventions such as, Person-Centered, Feminism, Motivational- Interviewing,
Self-Monitoring and Mindfulness. Nicole received a Bachelor’s of Science in Human Services
from Lancaster Bible College (BSHS) and a Master’s of Counseling degree from Missio
Theological Seminary (MAC).

Vince McFadden

Vince McFadden, MEd

Vince McFadden, MEd, is a highly skilled and experienced counselor who received his Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Eastern University. He has developed specialized expertise in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, focusing on creating and implementing tailored coping strategies to address a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, including anger management, anxiety, depression, parenting skills, ADHD symptoms, and academic performance issues. Grounded in a humanistic and cognitive-behavioral therapy framework, Vince is deeply committed to helping his clients navigate their challenges with compassion and respect. His approach emphasizes understanding each individual’s unique experiences, guiding them to develop the resilience and strength needed to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth, making him a trusted and respected professional in the field of counseling.

OUR DOCTORS

Meet Our Medical Team

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Dr. Jeffery Simon

Dr. Simon sought specialized training in both child and adolescent psychiatry and addictions medicine having seen firsthand the frequent problems of mis-diagnosis, poor medication management, and lack of improvement that all too often results from rushed office visits, subsequent inaccuracies in treatment planning and insufficient follow up.

Dr. Simon provides all patients, and their families, with the time and care
necessary to maximize their progress. Additionally, Dr. Simon believes in the importance of collaboration in the care of his patients. When mutually agreed upon, Dr. Simon works closely with family members, schools, psychotherapists, primary care physicians, speech therapists, ABA providers, and any other relevant people needed to support that patient and coordinate care.

Dr. Simon also has a range of support people that he is able to refer patients
to in helping to guide their overall treatment.

Jamie Lobbenberg

Jamie A. Lobbenberg, MSN, CRNP

Jamie A. Lobbenberg, MSN, CRNP is a certified registered nurse practitioner. He received his BSN from Temple University School of Nursing and his MSN from La Salle University in Philadelphia. He is board certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner. He is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for Nursing and a member of Pennsylvania Coalition of Nurse Practitioners. He comes to Brightside with 8 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner, treating conditions including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD/ADD, and schizophrenia. Jamie is concurrently working in Rheumatology, broadening his overall knowledge base in regards to mental health.

Hallie Katrina Dennison, PMHNP-BC

Hallie Katrina Dennison, PHMNP-BC

Hallie Katrina Dennison, PMHNP-BC;  a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Hallie received both her BSN and MSN from La Salle University in Philadelphia. As well as her PMHNP post masters from University of Cincinnati. Hallie is also board certified as an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for Nursing and a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Hallie came to Brightside in 2019 with 4 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner. She has now expanded her knowledge and skills and is treating all psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1&2 disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia and personality disorders. Hallie is concurrently working in Various settings of psychiatry and populations. She is certified in TMS, and also holds a MAT waiver. “Just everything Psych”…

Ma. Kristina Martinez (NP)

Kristina A Martinez, MSN, CRNP

Kristina Martinez specializes as a nurse practitioner in Abington, PA and has over 10 years of experience in the field of medicine. She graduated from her medical school with her masters degree in 2011. She is affiliated with numerous hospitals in Pennsylvania and more, including Abington Memorial Hospital. Kristina is also a professor at Lasalle University in the nursing program, and works with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi polar, ADHD, and eating disorders.

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