Tara Bradford, LISW-S – I have been practicing in the Social Work field for 20 years. My interest and focus is in treating the whole person because we are more than what happened to us on our worst day. I often work with individuals who have experienced trauma and grief, as well as significant life transitions. Sessions are guided by the individual’s goals, needs, and strengths. As well as seeing patients, I assist the team in clinical operations and supervise clinical and non-clinical staff.

Education: Master of Social Work (MSW) at The Ohio State University in 2005. Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Sociology, and Criminal Justice at The Ohio State University 2001.

License: Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervision designation (LISW-S)

Training: ACT/IDDT, CANS, CBT, DBT, Dual Diagnosis Treatment, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, MST, and trauma-informed care for individuals and organizations


 

Sara Cicchinelli, LPCC-S– Sara has worked in numerous settings including: community mental health agencies both in the schools and in outpatient settings, two different private practice locations, and now Darby Creek. Sara’s passion for working with children stems from children’s inability to control their environment or things which happen to them and providing them with support which is needed to help them meet their needs and express their feelings in a safe environment. Sara wants kids to have someone they can talk to about what is upsetting them in a place that is safe and free from judgements or expectations. Together, Sara enjoys working with the child and family to develop ideas or strategies which could decrease negative/upsetting emotions and reduce frequency of challenging behaviors which are present. Sara helps to educate both clients and families on how they are able to increase coping and communication skills in different environments building relationships, along with positive interactions. Sara enjoys working with children as young as 15 months through the age of 12; using and engaging in therapeutic play, games, books, art, music/movement, and sensory related activities throughout appointments to help clients explore, process, and create skills which are needed to improve their behavioral, social, and emotional interactions throughout their daily lives.  By using these and other treatment modalities Sara is able to help kids work through and overcome mental, emotional, and behavioral health issues including: Trauma/PTSD, ADHD, attachment, anxiety, depression, school/family/life stressors and adjustments, family counseling, parenting support/education, and self-esteem related issues. Sara is currently pursuing a play therapy certification and is interested in learning more about how our different sensory systems affect daily interactions.

Education: University of Toledo- Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, University of Akron- Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Licensure: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (Supervisory Designation), State of Ohio

Trainings: Incredible Years- Parent Facilitator


Veronica Dotson, MS, IMFT, MEd- Everyone experiences stress in a differentVeronica Dotson way. I believe most people want a better understanding of what they are feeling or experiencing at any given time. There are many frustrations that we face on a day-to-day basis and helping you through that is what I want to do. I specialize in working with children ages 3-10 but also work with adults and couples. I would like the opportunity to help you or your child explore new ways of thinking if you are struggling with behavior and impulse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns or life changes that are causing extra stress. I use a collaborative approach when working with my clients and want them to be an integral part of the therapeutic process. It can be difficult to think about sharing life events and stressors with a stranger, especially for young children. Providing a safe space to process whatever you might be struggling with is an important part of my practice. Life can at times become overwhelming. Whether that is due to relationship issues, parenting concerns or just trying to work through whatever might be causing you distress. You do not have to do it alone; I would be glad to help you through your journey to better understanding and healing.

Veronica currently provides services only via TeleHealth.

Education: Capella University- Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, University of Phoenix- Master’s Degree in Education Leadership

Licensure: IMFT- State of Ohio


Allison DeLisle, LSW (she/her they/them)- Hi, I’m Allison! I am a dedicated youth therapist with a passion for helping young individuals navigate life’s challenges. I have specific experience working with populations with substance abuse disorder. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a commitment to creating a non-judgmental safe space for my clients. Therapy is not one size fits all so my therapeutic approach is client-centered, tailored to meet each clients needs. My clinical interests include LGBTQIA+ topics, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and neurodivergence. My personal interests include playing with my dogs, playing music, and geeking out over things like video games and movies! I look forward to meeting with you!

Education: Youngstown State University- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work

Licensure-  Licensed Social Worker, Ohio

Allison works under the supervision of Noelle Arduini, LISW-S, LICDC.


Kendall D. Lawrence, LPC- I am completing the Licensed Professional Counseling Program at the University of Dayton. As a school counselor, I have experience working with students and families. This work has contributed to my growth in the counseling profession. I have experience working with children and adolescents in school-based settings as a teacher. As a former coach, I have experienced working alongside individuals achieving their goals.

I will take this approach in counseling, working with you where you are, and helping you work towards your goals. I would like to offer an authentic, empathetic, and empowering space for clients. I look forward to meeting you!

Education:  The Ohio State University-Bachelor’s Degree in English ; Master’s Degree in Education, The Ohio State University; Master’s Degree in School Counseling, University of Dayton

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Kendall works under the supervision of Daniel Maust, LPCC-S.


Alexandra Allen (Allie), MSEd, LPC (She/Her)  I believe life should be enjoyed and valued. I understand  life can sometimes feel like a storm, cloudy day, or natural disaster. I offer a safe and friendly environment in which one can feel free to be open, to discuss and explore any areas of their life. I offer a creative approach to working with clients of all ages. I have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma and struggled with anxiety and depression. I recognize that everyone has their own individual needs and believe in the importance of meeting clients where they are.

I have worked as a school counselor for the last 3 years, and am currently in school studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am married and have a cat and a bernedoodle puppy. In my spare time I love painting, baking, traveling, and running outside.

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, University of Dayton; Master’s of Science in School Counseling, University of Dayton; Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, University of Dayton.

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Allie works under the supervision of Daniel Maust, LPCC-S.


Rylie Wahl, LPC- My mission as a counselor is honoring intuition, cultivating self trust and self agency, expanding love of self and others, and befriending body, mind, and spirit. My approach is focused on being nonjudgmentally curious about what’s going on inside and outside of ourselves. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, emphasizing building a relationship with each other. You are always in the driver’s seat, and I stay in the passenger seat, accompanying and guiding you on your journey. I strive to help clients feel empowered to face life’s challenges, no matter what they may have experienced. I believe that with the right space and support, there is nothing we can’t heal from. 

In addition to English, I speak both Mandarin Chinese and Korean, and I have experience living and traveling abroad. My background of cross-cultural experiences has helped me develop the skills and humility necessary for effective and fruitful communication with individuals of all kinds. I welcome clients of all races, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, and religious/spiritual backgrounds. 

My approach to counseling is Person-Centered and Strengths-Based, drawing from several modalities, primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and inspired by Internal Family Systems Therapy and Somatic Experiencing, along with a variety of other techniques and interventions to best meet each individual client’s needs.

Education: Bachelor of Arts Degree in Asian Studies, with a Minor in Graphic Design and a Certificate in Leadership Studies from Marietta College. Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marietta College (in progress)

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Rylie works under the supervision of Daniel Maust, LPCC-S.


Jesse Showalter, LPC– Connection is something we all search for and need. I work with my clients to help pursue their goals and achieve optimal mental health, while fostering that all-important connection in each area of life. From teenagers to adults, whether you have something heavy on your mind or you just want to process where you are at in life, I am here to work with you. I will meet you wherever you are as we work together to come up with a treatment plan that fits your needs. I am drawn to approaches such as person-centered, solutions-focused, strengths-based, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am naturally an optimistic person and will bring that into the counseling relationship, as well as the treatment approaches I use with clients. I like to keep an open mind about people and their ability to change and improve.

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – The Ohio State University, Master of Arts in Clinical, Mental Health Counseling – Ashland Theological Seminary

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Jesse works under the supervision of Daniel Maust, LPCC-S.

 


Elizabeth Kovalchin, LPC– I am working towards a master’s degree and completing the Licensed Professional Counseling Program at University of Dayton. As a counselor in training, I have had the opportunity to learn about myself as a clinician and discover the numerous ways counseling contributes to a positive outlook on life. I believe life is a journey and there are often moments on that journey that can become challenging. While it can be easy to sweep life’s obstacles and challenges under the rug, it can be very beneficial to take those first steps in confiding in someone to listen to your story. I strive to be the safe, open listener for you and invite you to take steps on this journey towards healing at your own pace. I believe caring for the mind is of equal importance as caring for our bodies, and find it fascinating how the mind, body, and spirit are connected and must nurture one another. Counseling is not a “one size fits all” and I am eager to explore the best ways in allowing this journey to be unique to you. Whether you have concerns surrounding depression, anxiety, trauma, marriage infidelity, or beginning a new chapter in life, I am here to meet you where you are at in life. I look forward to hearing the goals you have and exploring how to best utilize your strengths in order to meet them.

Education: Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling Program at the University of Dayton

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Elizabeth works under the supervision of Sara Cicchinelli, LPCC-S.


Joshua Manculich, LPC- I am a humanistic therapist. For me, I recognize the anchoring belief that we all have an incredible capacity for personal meaning-making and resilience. I believe that through personal recognition of our strengths and creativity, we can cope with the considerable difficulties and challenges in our life. As a helping professional, I lean on current research and recognize that science supports the counseling profession. We are growth-minded beings, and my background as a dance/somatic educator and artist assists me in viewing the intrinsic and innate strengths of a person. Empathy and judgement cannot coexist in the counseling space, and so I encourage everyone to be themselves.

Education: M.F.A in Dance from The Ohio State University, B.A. in Dance with a minor in Psychology from Point Park University, M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Ohio University

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Trainings: Josh is an active Yoga teacher and has his 200-hour Yoga Certification.

Josh works under the supervision of Daniel Maust, LPCC-S.


Chris Wolford, LPC- I would be honored to walk alongside you regardless of what brings you into counseling. Through open communication, honesty, and trust I would love to form a strong therapeutic relationship where you feel safe to explore parts of your life that may feel vulnerable or difficult to process and talk about. I use an integrated approach to counseling, using lots of humanistic techniques as well as narrative therapy, and trauma informed techniques, always adapted to help best serve the needs of each individual. As a part of the LGBTQ+ community I have insight and personal experience in helping individuals navigate the role of identity, sexuality, and relationships in their lives. I also have a close understanding and am very familiar with military culture/issues due to my partner being a US Army veteran. Some of my primary experience revolves around trauma, depression, and anxiety. However, I am open to working with clients through a wide range of life experiences and disorders. I am currently working towards a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling through Capital University. My educational background prior to this was in the arts, and I would be more than happy to help integrate this into the therapeutic process with any individuals that may benefit from creative therapeutic art techniques. Regardless of technique, my goal is to work collaboratively to help create a safe environment that allows for growth, adapted to however that looks for each individual.

Education: MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capital University

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Chris works under the supervision of Daniel Maust, LPCC-S.


Molly Hawkins, LPC (she/her)- Everyone deserves a safe space that offers support and someone to walk alongside them on their journey through life and the challenges and changes that arise. As a counselor, I strive to develop a collaborative partnership where you feel heard and valued and can take steps towards achieving your goals. I have several years working in an inpatient psychiatric setting with children and adolescents experiencing depression, trauma, anxiety, and a variety of other mental health concerns. It was here that I began to develop my interest in an integrative therapeutic approach that combines strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and person-centered approaches among others to meet my clients where they are at. I am currently completing my degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Dayton. I look forward to meeting you and creating a therapeutic environment that suits your individual needs and allows for growth, healing, and reaching your goals.

Education: Master’s of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Dayton

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Molly works under the supervision of Sara Cicchinelli, LPCC-S.


Sydney Kondas, LPC- Hi there, I’m Sydney, and regardless of what brings you to counseling, I am here to help guide you on your journey to self-discovery. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard and I am passionate about being that listener for my clients. It can be intimidating to take that first step towards therapy, but I believe that if we work together, we can build a therapeutic relationship built upon openness, understanding, empathy and trust. I strive to empower everyone who walks through my door and believe each person can achieve their goals.

I hold a holistic approach and firmly believe that our minds, body and spirit are intricately connected and true healing is achieved when all of these are in balance. This is a key reason why I use an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients that is based in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) along with strength based, person-centered, and somatic experiencing approaches. I believe in the power of self-compassion, as well as vulnerability, and find that once we learn to love and accept ourselves, we are able to discover a new world. My clinical interests include body dysmorphia disorder, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma and issues particular to young adult women.

As a counselor in training, I have enjoyed my own journey of learning about myself as a counselor and building upon the skills needed for this profession. I look forward to meeting with you and hearing your story. Together, we can build a therapeutic environment tailored to help you accomplish your goals.

Education: Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton, Bachelors of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Women’s Studies from The Ohio State University

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, State of Ohio

Sydney works under the supervision of Sara Cicchinelli, LPCC-S.


Raelynn Hong, LPC– Hello! Everyone’s mental health journey is unique to them. My role is to help guide you in your healing while bringing out your strengths and providing you with the tools to navigate life’s struggles. While using a holistic approach, I pull techniques from strength-based, solution focused and person-centered practices. I cater each treatment plan to the client’s specific needs in hopes to achieve an efficient and effective therapeutic relationship. I look forward to growing together! I am a Counselor in Training at Lindsey Wilson College pursuing my degree of Master’s of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Education: Bachelors of Science in Psychology (Applied Behavioral Analysis), Kaplan University; Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Lindsey Wilson College

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, State of Ohio

Raelyn works under the supervision of Sara Cicchinelli, LPCC-S.


Tristan Fortner, LPC (he/they)No one should feel alone when it comes to working on their mental health. I want to walk with my clients and serve as a navigator and advocate on their journey to live the life they were meant to live. My professional background is in behavioral approaches to working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and other developmental and behavioral concerns. As a counselor, I believe in utilizing behavioral and skill-building approaches to help clients of all ages increase psychological flexibility and adaptability to be able to better face everyday challenges. I believe that learning is a lifelong process and that effective counseling involves meeting a client at their developmental level and encouraging healthy growth by fostering a warm, welcoming, and safe relationship for clients of all backgrounds and identities. Every person has their own story, their own needs, and their own goals, and my role is to help each person determine these for themselves and guide them through an individualized approach without judgment or imposing any of my own beliefs or values. My hope is that I can build a relationship with each of my clients where they feel seen, heard, and understood, which will then help them to seek and build healthy relationships with the people who are most important to them.

Education: Bachelor of Science in Developmental Psychology, Liberty University; Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Liberty University

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Tristan works under the supervision of Sara Cicchinelli, LPCC-S.


Cherry Aubrey, CT- I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Skidmore College, am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and a mental health counselor in training studying at Wright State University. I have experience working with youth, adults and families in inpatient, outpatient, and community based programs. I am dedicated to helping those experiencing concerns related to substance use, PTSD/trauma, interpersonal relationships, social skills, anxiety, and grief. I employ various methods including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. I believe in a holistic approach and I often incorporate my knowledge about nutrition and fitness to help my clients improve mentally and physically.

Education: Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, Skidmore College, Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Wright State University (in progress)

Licensure: Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor III, State of Ohio & Counselor Trainee, State of Ohio

Cherry works under the supervision of Sara Cicchinelli, LPCC-S.


Alusine Bangura, LPC- Hi! I am from Freetown, Sierra Leone and is excited to be able to meet and guide individuals through their journey using solution-focused, person-center therapy, play therapy, mindfulness techniques, as well as Cognitive behavior Therapy (CBT). I welcome clients of all races, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, and religion/spiritual backgrounds. My number one goal is to support and empower you. I am an aspiring Clinical Mental Health Counselor attending Walden University. I often reflect back on my journey because it puts into perspective how important relationship building and being mindful can be when working with individuals. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and elderly adults in home, school, community, and clinical settings. It is interesting to see the trials and tribulations individuals have to overcome in different stages of life. Whether they are suffering from anxiety, ptsd, depression, family, work, and many other stressors, they all share the need to be heard, seen, and validated. I look forward to meeting and creating a safe and therapeutic space that allows you to express yourself without judgement. Empathic understanding is critical to our development and journey of self-exploration.

Education: Bachelors of Science in Human Development and Family Science, The Ohio State University; Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Walden University

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, Ohio

Alusine works under the supervision of Dan Maust, LPCC-S.


Larissa Ralston, CT- I am a counselor in training working towards my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. My goal is to hold space for wherever you are in life’s journey and help guide you through challenges. I strive to create a safe, comforting and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, validated and embraced. I believe in nurturing our mind, body and spirit, and use mindfulness techniques to help achieve balance. I, also, use person-centered and CBT approaches to help you be the expert of your life.

Licensure: Counselor Trainee, State of Ohio

Larissa works under the supervision of Rebekah Cotner, LPCC-S.


Madison Biegler, LSW, CT- Hi, I’m Maddie! I have a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, am a Licensed Social Worker and am currently enrolled in a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Capital University working towards my LPC. My passion is working with kids and creating a safe, comfortable space for them to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement or consequences. I have previous experience working in foster care and community mental health, primarily with kids ages 5-18 focusing on trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD and ODD. I am excited to be on this journey at Darby Creek Counseling and look forward to working with you!

Education: Capital University- Bachelor of Science in Social Work (2021), Capital University- Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (in progress).

Licensure: Licensed Social Worker, State of Ohio; Counselor Trainee, State of Ohio

Madison works under the supervision of Rebekah Cotner, LPCC-S.


Nicholas Elswick (he/him)- Hello, and welcome to counseling! I am a Master’s student at Liberty University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. 

I believe in helping people connect with their authentic self, improving their lives and their relationships with others. I take a trauma-informed approach to counseling, and strive to create a space where you feel safe and comfortable exploring the areas of challenge in your life, both past and present. Every day is an opportunity to learn and grow, and I am excited to be able to share that process with you. 

In addition to person-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I have an interest in internal family systems (IFS) and polyvagal approaches to counseling. Topics we might discuss include anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as spiritual and relationship issues. Ultimately, you are the focus of our time together and we will address the matters that are most important to you in the context that you would like. I look forward to the opportunity to work together, please reach out if you have any questions!

Education: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Liberty University (in progress)

Licensure: Counselor Trainee, State of Ohio

Nicholas works under the supervision of Sara Cicchinelli, LPCC-S.


Andrew Devlin, LPC

“You don’t have to be positive all the time. It’s perfectly okay to feel sad, angry, annoyed, frustrated, scared, or anxious. Having feelings doesn’t make you a ‘negative person.’ It makes you human.”– Lori Deschene

Andrew is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over two years of experience. Andrew mainly works with adults, teens and preteens. He uses a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to treat his clients. He works with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and trauma. He believes that everyone should have a safe place to process and work through the difficult emotions that come with day to day life.

Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor, State of Ohio

Andrew works under the supervision of Daniel Maust, LPCC-S.