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Michelle Munasami, LMFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of Connecticut. She received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s from the University of Saint Joseph. Michelle has over 15 years of expertise working with both adults and children, individually and as families. Michelle utilizes many different therapeutic practices which include- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Michelle is solution-focused and collaborative and moves clients towards their desired goals. Michelle stays busy with her three children and husband and enjoys kickboxing and traveling in her free time.

Michelle offers:

• Individual counseling for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
• Parenting, relationship and family problems.
• Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Family Issues, Behavioral Disorders, ADHD, Divorce/Blended Families.

Dr. Bido Aguessy, Psy. D. is a clinical psychologist, a licensed professional counselor associate, and a spiritual care specialist. With a lifelong love of learning, he has many degrees and accomplishments. He graduated with a doctorate in psychology from the Graduate Theological Foundation in Mishawka, IN. Dr. Aguessy was passionate about learning about the intersection of spirituality with psychology and continued his theological training at New Brunswick Theological Seminary and JFK Medical center in NJ.

His early clinical work included supporting patients in their early stage of disability at the Kessler Institute of Rehabilitation in NJ. In addition, most of his research and clinical work is concentrated on End of Life, palliative care, grief and loss. Dr. Aguessy has worked as a grief counselor for the Connecticut Hospice. Dr. Aguessy has also worked as a counselor at Hartford Hospital, University of Connecticut Health, Trinity Health of New England, and Athena Health.

Dr. Bido Aguessy works with adolescents and adults that are experiencing trauma, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, and anger. He also works with the adults in the areas of geriatric depression and end of life. Dr. Aguessy’s holistic philosophy includes working with the whole family and the individual to necessitate change and growth.

As theologian, he integrates spirituality in his clinical approach. Dr. Aguessy is well-versed in psychological methods of Depth Psychology, Jungian psychology, and logo therapy. He also works within a family systems perspective and is culturally sensitive. He is the author of a few therapeutic methods, like the Seven-week grief group therapy. Dr. Aguessy is also a published author of the book “Let’s Talk about the End of Life Psychotherapy. “

Dr. Aguessy is a fluent speaker of English, French, Ewe, Mina, and Fon languages.

Dr. Aguessy provides:

• Individual and family therapy for adolescents and adults
• Treatment areas: trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, anger management, and emotional balance.
• Weekly 7 week grief groups on Saturdays in Glastonbury: Loss of Spouse, Loss of a Child, Loss of a Parent, Loss of a Sibling, Loss of a Pet.

Chris is a Licensed Psychologist and Behavior Analyst with over 15 years of school-based and outpatient experience working with children and adolescents in multiple settings. He holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Georgia State University and a Doctorate in School Psychology from the University of South Florida.

Chris specializes in collaborative behavioral problem-solving with tween and teen caregivers, in both group and individual settings, to address difficulties related to ADHD, Autism, trauma, depression, anxiety, and disruptive behaviors.

His therapeutic approach blends aspects of Trauma-Informed Positive Behavior Supports (PBS), Psychoeducation, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). He believes families thrive best when parents embrace their role as an "emotion coach" rather than a referee, super-fan, or spectator. Chris has experience in general, special, therapeutic, and faith-based education settings as well as pediatric and recreational contexts. He is a leader in a clinical day school and has taught graduate-level psychology courses at Purdue Global and UCONN.

Outside of work, Chris is a husband and father of two growing-and-always-going boys. Together, they enjoy hiking and canoeing on their local lake, playing soccer, and weekly movie nights and pancake breakfasts.

Chris offers:

• Parenting and family sessions for children and teen families
• Behavioral consulting for children and teens with challenging behaviors

Octavia Francis earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Central Connecticut State University and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Post University.

She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in school and intensive outpatient (IOP) settings, supporting individuals facing a wide range of behavioral and mental health challenges. Octavia is passionate about empowering clients to regain control of their lives and move toward meaningful, fulfilled living.

Her therapeutic style is grounded in collaboration, trust, and genuine connection. She strives to create a safe, respectful space where clients feel heard and supported. Recognizing the uniqueness of each individual, Octavia tailors’ treatment to meet specific needs. She draws from evidence-based modalities including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy to create individualized treatment plans targeting both immediate concerns and long-term goals.

Central to her practice is fostering self-awareness and building a practical set of coping skills. Octavia emphasizes goal-directed treatment with accountability measures, allowing clients to track their progress throughout the process. Because real change happens beyond the therapy room, she focuses on developing structured strategies for the application of skills in everyday life. Her goal is to help clients cultivate sustainable coping mechanisms, resilience, and measurable growth in overall functioning.

Outside of her professional work, Octavia runs a home baking business and enjoys reading, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Services Provided:

•  Individual counseling for children, adolescents, and adults.
• All inclusive/communities, including LGBTQ+
• Anxiety, depression and trauma
• Life transitions/adjustments (wide spectrum), crisis intervention, anger management, and Personality Disorders
• Communication, relationship, attachment and family problems

Karla is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Connecticut, holding a master’s degree in Counselor Education with a specialization in Clinical Professional Counseling from Central Connecticut State University. Karla provides support to her clients in exploring and determining pathways towards a purposeful and well-balanced life, while acknowledging and addressing any past issues without allowing them to dominate the present. Karla’s diverse experiences have equipped her with the tools to support others effectively. Karla has a background in counseling in multiple settings working with children, teens, and adults. She enjoys doing both  process groups and individual counseling. Karla enjoys working with clients that have complex situations and brings empathy, non-judgment, and understanding into all of her sessions. She creates tailored, specialized treatment plans with specific goals and objectives for guiding her patients into self- sustaining healthy behavior patterns for life.

Karla employs Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Client-Centered Therapy to help clients identify and address their presenting issues. By focusing on “the how” and connecting behaviors to their negative impacts, Karla assists clients in understanding and overcoming obstacles. Karla’s approach is characterized by compassion, transparency, respect, and honesty, fostering meaningful connections with clients.

In her free time, Karla enjoys being physically active to promote a healthy life balance, traveling, connecting with family and friends, and practicing mindfulness activities.

Karla offers:

• Individual and family counseling for children, adolescents, adults

• Therapy for ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use/ addiction, trauma, mood disorders, OCD, communication difficulties, panic attacks, substance abuse, anger management, crisis intervention, and life transitions or changes.

• Group counseling on trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, adverse childhood experiences, divorce, parenting issues, and women’s issues

Patricia obtained her PhD in clinical psychology at the Universidad Central de Venezuela in Caracas in 2002. Soon after she completed her training she was hired to provide clinical assessments, diagnostic evaluations, crisis interventions, and therapy to immigrant children and families at Clifford Beers Community Care Center. In 2011 Patricia was promoted to Program Manager for all Trauma Services. In 2013, after she obtained her LCSW she became faculty at Southern Connecticut State University where she has been teaching a clinical practicum class to MSW candidates.

In 2016 she joined the Yale Pediatric Primary Care Center and in addition to providing clinical services to children and families, she provided clinical training to medical students and residents. Patricia facilitated psychoeducation groups for Latino and Refugee families. She also provided advocacy in collaboration with the Medical Legal Partnership. Patricia is a bilingual-bicultural trained in psychodynamics and she is certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Areas of expertise include work with children, adolescents and families affected by trauma, parent-child attachment, conflict resolution, parenting, acculturation and adjustment issues, grief and coping with living with complex medical diagnosis. Patricia is certified in Seminar Field Instruction (SIFI) and she has over 12 years of experience supervising MSW students and post master social work professionals.

Amenah Thomas is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bay Path University in Massachusetts. She works with children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating a wide range of challenges, including trauma, life transitions, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, depression, and substance use concerns.

Amenah believes in meeting individuals where they are, offering a therapeutic space grounded in empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity. Her goal is to help clients feel safe, heard, and validated as they work through challenges, build insight, and reconnect with their inner strengths. She views therapy as a collaborative process rooted in trust, compassion, and personal growth.

Amenah utilizes evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s unique needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.

Outside of her clinical work, Amenah enjoys traveling and immersing herself in new cultures, exploring new restaurants, and attending concerts and comedy shows. She values quality time with her partner, family, and her cat Fluff.

Amenah Offers

• Individual counseling for adolescents, adults, and families
• Affirming support for individuals of all backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQ+ communities
• Evidence-based interventions for eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, behavioral concerns, trauma, substance use, and complex co-occurring concerns.
• Compassionate support for those navigating stress, grief, and concerns around self-esteem. 
• Guidance in navigating life transitions, building coping skills, strengthening resilience, and creating balance

Aaron is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A). He earned his Master's degree in Educational Psychology in Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology from the University of Connecticut. Aaron works with children, teens, and adults specializing in persons with physical and developmental disabilities including persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). He also has experience assisting individuals with disabilities to obtain and maintain employment.

Aaron’s therapeutic outlook lies in the belief that trust and rapport are foundational to any quality counseling relationship. Without trust and rapport, it is difficult for individuals to open up and make real change through the counseling relationship. Aaron believes that through building proper connection, where trust and respect are valued, real breakthroughs and gains can be achieved in treatment. He combines evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and solution-based therapy, which focuses on creating a non-judgmental space for self-exploration and growth.

Outside of work, Aaron enjoys watching TV, particularly sports. He has recently gotten into boxing and jump roping, and is a fan of chess.

Aaron Offers

• Individual counseling for children, adolescents, and adults.
• Support for people of all backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQ+ communities
• Evidence-based interventions for ASD, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, communication issues, relationship problems, anger management, and life transitions. 
• Guidance navigating occupational challenges
• Specialized support for individuals with ASD 
• Specialized training in working with young adults on independent living skills and career development. 

Shelby is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with fifteen years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults with physical, mental, and emotional/behavioral disorders. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University and a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy from Albertus Magnus College. Shelby believes that creative and therapeutic activities play a vital role in emotional well-being, helping individuals understand themselves, resolve challenges, and develop healthier ways of managing feelings and behaviors. She is deeply committed to advocating for mental health awareness and freedom of self-expression.

Much of Shelby’s career has been dedicated to working as an art therapist and clinical counselor in residential and juvenile detention settings for adolescents with mental health and behavioral disabilities. She has also worked in psychiatric inpatient hospitals as an art therapist and mental health specialist across acute adult, substance use, and adolescent units, with a strong focus on group therapy for mood disorders.

Shelby hopes to bring color, hope, and healing to those experiencing darkness, inspiring clients to find meaning and self-expression through art. She believes that exploring the messages communicated through creative processes can uncover repressed emotions and foster insight, reminding individuals that mental illness is treatable through therapy, self-awareness, education, determination, and creative outlets.

Outside of her professional life, Shelby enjoys ceramics, theatre, and adventuring in nature activities with her family.

Shelby Offers

• Individual counseling for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
• Support for people of all backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQ+ communities
• Evidence-based interventions for anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, behavioral concerns, trauma, substance use, and complex co-occurring concerns.
• Art and creative expression as a therapeutic tool.
• Guidance navigating developing coping strategies

Dr. Bido Aguessy, Psy. D. is a clinical psychologist, a licensed professional counselor associate, and a spiritual care specialist. With a lifelong love of learning, he has many degrees and accomplishments. He graduated with a doctorate in psychology from the Graduate Theological Foundation in Mishawka, IN. Dr. Aguessy was passionate about learning about the intersection of spirituality with psychology and continued his theological training at New Brunswick Theological Seminary and JFK Medical center in NJ.

His early clinical work included supporting patients in their early stage of disability at the Kessler Institute of Rehabilitation in NJ. In addition, most of his research and clinical work is concentrated on End of Life, palliative care, grief and loss. Dr. Aguessy has worked as a grief counselor for the Connecticut Hospice. Dr. Aguessy has also worked as a counselor at Hartford Hospital, University of Connecticut Health, Trinity Health of New England, and Athena Health.

Dr. Bido Aguessy works with adolescents and adults that are experiencing trauma, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, and anger. He also works with the adults in the areas of geriatric depression and end of life. Dr. Aguessy’s holistic philosophy includes working with the whole family and the individual to necessitate change and growth.

As theologian, he integrates spirituality in his clinical approach. Dr. Aguessy is well-versed in psychological methods of Depth Psychology, Jungian psychology, and logo therapy. He also works within a family systems perspective and is culturally sensitive. He is the author of a few therapeutic methods, like the Seven-week grief group therapy. Dr. Aguessy is also a published author of the book “Let’s Talk about the End of Life Psychotherapy. “

Dr. Aguessy is a fluent speaker of English, French, Ewe, Mina, and Fon languages.

Dr. Aguessy provides:

• Individual and family therapy for adolescents and adults
• Treatment areas: trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, anger management, and emotional balance.
• Weekly 7 week grief groups on Saturdays in Glastonbury: Loss of Spouse, Loss of a Child, Loss of a Parent, Loss of a Sibling, Loss of a Pet.

Patricia obtained her PhD in clinical psychology at the Universidad Central de Venezuela in Caracas in 2002. Soon after she completed her training she was hired to provide clinical assessments, diagnostic evaluations, crisis interventions, and therapy to immigrant children and families at Clifford Beers Community Care Center. In 2011 Patricia was promoted to Program Manager for all Trauma Services. In 2013, after she obtained her LCSW she became faculty at Southern Connecticut State University where she has been teaching a clinical practicum class to MSW candidates.

In 2016 she joined the Yale Pediatric Primary Care Center and in addition to providing clinical services to children and families, she provided clinical training to medical students and residents. Patricia facilitated psychoeducation groups for Latino and Refugee families. She also provided advocacy in collaboration with the Medical Legal Partnership. Patricia is a bilingual-bicultural trained in psychodynamics and she is certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Areas of expertise include work with children, adolescents and families affected by trauma, parent-child attachment, conflict resolution, parenting, acculturation and adjustment issues, grief and coping with living with complex medical diagnosis. Patricia is certified in Seminar Field Instruction (SIFI) and she has over 12 years of experience supervising MSW students and post master social work professionals.

Michelle Munasami, LMFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of Connecticut. She received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s from the University of Saint Joseph. Michelle has over 15 years of expertise working with both adults and children, individually and as families. Michelle utilizes many different therapeutic practices which include- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Michelle is solution-focused and collaborative and moves clients towards their desired goals. Michelle stays busy with her three children and husband and enjoys kickboxing and traveling in her free time.

Michelle offers:

• Individual counseling for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
• Parenting, relationship and family problems.
• Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Family Issues, Behavioral Disorders, ADHD, Divorce/Blended Families.

Julia Bombassei, LPC-A, earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Gordon College. Subsequently, she pursued a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Julia has experience working with children, teens, and adults in multiple mental health settings such as private practice and IOP/PHP programs. She has also led multiple groups including, anxiety skills groups, young adult groups, and dual diagnosis groups. She enjoys working with all ages, but has a special affinity working with children and teens throughout their developmental phases.

Her therapeutic approach is one of collaboration, connection, trust and respect.  She believes in an approach that is personalized to her clients specific needs. Julia quickly establishes rapport with her client and as a team, she creates an individualized treatment plan to address all behaviors and issues to be tackled in therapy with very specific methods and treatment  gleaned from DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) , CBT ( Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Solutions Focused  therapy, and Person Centered Therapy. Her goal for each client is to  develop deep self awareness and create a metaphorical toolbelt of skills.  Julia believes in goal directed treatment with accountability measures so that clients know they can measure their success and she understands that  most therapy takes place in the real world which is why she creates specific plans for the implementation of skills.

Julia treats the whole client and with kids and teens, she understands how important the family and school can be to the whole growth of the child. She coordinates care with outside providers, school, and of course, parents. She involves parents in the therapeutic process as much as possible knowing sometimes, the family dynamic can require some treatment as well. In her free time, Julia enjoys spending time in nature, playing with her dog, and competing in powerlifting.

Julia Offers:

• Individual counseling for children, adolescents and adults
• ADHD, Behavioral Disorders, Mood Disorders, Trauma, Substance Use, Divorce/Family Conflict, Anxiety, Behavioral Difficulties, OCD

Chris is a Licensed Psychologist and Behavior Analyst with over 15 years of school-based and outpatient experience working with children and adolescents in multiple settings. He holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Georgia State University and a Doctorate in School Psychology from the University of South Florida.

Chris specializes in collaborative behavioral problem-solving with tween and teen caregivers, in both group and individual settings, to address difficulties related to ADHD, Autism, trauma, depression, anxiety, and disruptive behaviors.

His therapeutic approach blends aspects of Trauma-Informed Positive Behavior Supports (PBS), Psychoeducation, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). He believes families thrive best when parents embrace their role as an "emotion coach" rather than a referee, super-fan, or spectator. Chris has experience in general, special, therapeutic, and faith-based education settings as well as pediatric and recreational contexts. He is a leader in a clinical day school and has taught graduate-level psychology courses at Purdue Global and UCONN.

Outside of work, Chris is a husband and father of two growing-and-always-going boys. Together, they enjoy hiking and canoeing on their local lake, playing soccer, and weekly movie nights and pancake breakfasts.

Chris offers:

• Parenting and family sessions for children and teen families
• Behavioral consulting for children and teens with challenging behaviors

Melissa Holznagel, LCSW, MEd, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Connecticut. She attended Ottawa University for her bachelor’s degree in general education and her master’s degree in special education. Melissa obtained her master’s degree in social work from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

Melissa has experience in various capacities working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. She has a deep level of understanding children’s emotional development and behavior. She started her career working in education as a Special Education Teacher, General Education teacher, pre-school teacher, and an In Home service provider for children with special needs. Melissa’ clinical experience has included working within the community supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults using a variety of treatment techniques and strategies. Melissa loves watching her clients transform over time to becoming their best selves and living their lives to the fullest extent.

Melissa is passionate about affirming, compassionate and supportive care where she will meet you where you are to support your mental health journey and needs. Melissa is non-judgmental, empathetic, and engaging to all who walk through her doors. She is dedicated to utilizing a strengths-based, client centered approach to support you in identifying and working towards your specific goals. Melissa has completed many LGBTQIA+ affirmative trainings, including Affirmative Care for Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming People, and Creating a Trans-affirming and Inclusive Environment. Melissa utilizes the treatment approaches of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), play or art therapy, and mindfulness techniques.

In her spare time Melissa enjoys watching her favorite TV shows, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.

Melissa Offers:

• Individual counseling for children, adolescents, young adults, and adults.
• Neurocognitive Developmental Disorders: ADHD, ASD, Intellectual Development disorderBipolar and related disorders
• Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Stress, or trauma-related disorders.Issues related to suicidality, and self- harm.
• Anger IssuesLife skills, social skills, communication issues
• Employment related stress or burnout