BRITTANY GOFF, MSW LCSW-CDirector of Clinical Services, Board Certified Supervisor & Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Brittany Goff, a licensed clinical social worker, brings a wealth of expertise and personal experience to her practice, specializing in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, ADHD, and Autism. Her academic foundations were laid at Salisbury University, where she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and subsequently obtained a Master’s degree in Social Work. Brittany’s early professional experience included provided trauma therapy to veterans with PTSD for the United States Veteran Affairs, and she served as a mental health therapist at Salisbury University’s Counseling Center, offering therapy to college students.

‘I am a late-diagnosed autistic individual with lived experience of OCD. Having relied on exposure therapy throughout my life, I stumbled upon a lesser-known European therapy that transformed my OCD into a subclinical condition. This transformative experience sparked my passion for Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), becoming one of its pioneering adopters in the United States.

As the founder and director of Zen, my work focuses on the supervision, training, and dissemination of I-CBT, particularly in the context of neurodiversity. I established the I-CBT Online Learning program, a self-paced platform designed to educate clinicians on neuroaffirmative therapies. I am so an instructor at the Cognitive Behavior Institute, enhancing the professional community’s understanding of I-CBT through live training sessions. My dedication to advancing this field is further demonstrated by my membership in the International OCD Foundation and by authoring the first workbook on I-CBT.

I also specialize in conducting autism evaluations for adults in Maryland and am an affirming therapist in Pathological Demand Avoidance/Persistent Drive for Autonmy (PDA), leveraging my personal and professional expertise to recognize and address demand avoidance in therapy.

Being a neurodivergent woman who often went unnoticed, I was compelled to conform to a world that wasn’t designed with me in mind. The sting of rejection sensitivity fostered narratives of inadequacy and abandonment, or grappled with the insidious impact of internalized ableism, which  drove my perfectionistic compulsions tendencies led me to mask my true self. This masking, done without my awareness, contributed to obsessive thoughts about my identity and my place in society.

When working together, there are a few things to expect.  I will be able to recognize your demand avoidance probably before you can. My therapeutic approach is carefully tailored to ensure it does not overwhelm the nervous system, allowing you to maintain autonomy throughout the session. If you are looking for a compliance treatment, approach I may not be the best therapist for you.  I also believe that Black Lives Matter and work from an anti-oppressive and anti-capitalism lens.

Other areas I work with in addition to OCD and Autism are LGBTQ issues, ADHD, chronic illnesses related to neurodivergency, PANDAS/PANS, chronic Lyme disease, ADHD, social anxiety, phobias, BFRB’s trauma. The therapies that I utilize are Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Somatic therapy.

Let’s discover life behind the mask and obsessions into finding your true self.”

DR. STACY MALLARE, PMHNPPsychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Stacy earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and Post-master’s
Certificate in the Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program from the University of Maryland School of Nursing and is a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. She also earned a Master’s degree in Nursing from the School of Nursing and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park.
She has experience treating patients with obsessive compulsive disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma disorders and dual diagnosis. She is also certified to prescribe buprenorphine.

Dr. Mallare works with patients of all ages including children, adolescents, and adults. She has provided care in inpatient, outpatient, and virtual settings and works collaboratively with significant others in the plan of care, explaining how to support loved ones while they are taking medications. Additional therapies include Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy,
Acceptance and Commitment therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She stays apprised of evidence-based recommendations, recent research, up-to-date regulations, and available community resources to help connect clients to the best care available.

On the first visit, we will discuss your expectations and goals for treatment and develop a care plan. My job is to provide education, guidance, advocacy and appropriate medications for your journey to wellness. I offer flexible hours including evenings and can accommodate short notice sessions as my schedule will allow.

KIMBERLY GILLETTE, LCSW-CLicensed Clinical Social Worker & Board Certified Supervisor
Kimberly Gillette received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Social Work from Smith College, where she was trained using psychodynamic theory. She has been working with teens for almost 20 years; first in case management, and then for therapy. Kimberly uses a person-centered, neurodivergent-affirming approach in her work with clients and she works from an intersectional lens to help them navigate both systemic, interpersonal and psychological challenges. Kimberly has training and experience doing DEI work, TF-CBT, and brainspotting. In her free time, she trains for destination races, which help her stay grounded and engaged in clinical work.

“I was inspired to become a therapist by the helpers in my own life that facilitated my recovery from PTSD after a sudden loss in college. I originally developed my practice working with queer and transgender youth, adults and their families after struggling to find care for my transgender family member. This took me through WPATH training and more recently, to complete a certificate in Advanced Transgender Studies from Widener University. When Covid hit, my practice went through an enormous shift and I found myself noticing connections I had previously missed. After years of reading and researching everything I could get my hands on, as well as consultation, I realized that many of my clients were also neurodivergent. That led to my own self-exploration of burnout prevention and recovery, which heavily influences my work. Many of my clients also struggle with depression, anxiety and OCD, which inspired me to get consultation in treatment of OCD and now to learn and incorporate I-CBT. I firmly believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives and that I am just here to help you uncover deeper understandings and shift patterns that you have been stuck in and desire to change.”

PAT BROWN, LCSW-CLicensed Clinical Social Worker & Board Certified Supervisor
I am a psychotherapist with 26 years of experience. Areas of specialty include Exposure Therapy and iCBT for OCD, and CPT for PTSD. I became a certified trauma therapist while working at the V.A. with veterans having PTSD. My clinical expertise is broad with a variety of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, and bipolar. Therapies are strength-based. I would love to hear from you.

With an enriching journey spanning 26 years, I have dedicated my professional life to the art and science of psychotherapy. My expertise is not just deep but also varied, enabling me to provide tailored therapeutic interventions that resonate with each individual’s unique experiences and challenges. Every therapy session with me is grounded in a strength-based approach. I believe in harnessing your inherent strengths and resilience, ensuring that every step forward is built on a foundation of empowerment and self-belief. Your well-being is my mission. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together.

Core Specializations: Mastery in Exposure Therapy & iCBT for OCD: Leveraging evidence-based techniques to empower clients in confronting and overcoming obsessive-compulsive patterns. Certified Trauma Therapist with a Focus on CPT for PTSD: My years with the Veterans Affairs (V.A.) enriched my understanding, allowing me to serve our brave veterans grappling with post-traumatic stress. This experience has given me profound insights into trauma-informed care that can benefit anyone facing the after-effects of traumatic events. Holistic Approach to Mental Health Challenges: Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, I bring a comprehensive toolkit to support you in your journey.
BRUCE KIRBY, LCSW-CLicensed Clinical Social Worker & Board Certified Supervisor
Bruce Kirby is a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in Obsessive – Compulsive Disorder and Anxiety disorders. He works with adults, adolescents and families. He utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Inference-based CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention and mindfulness approaches in helping his clients. In addition to broad training in OCD and anxiety disorders, he has completed in-depth training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused Therapy and Family Therapy.

Bruce believes that amplifying his clients’ strengths is crucial to successful therapy. He helps his clients cultivate increased self-compassion, understanding that many of their life situations lead to severe self-judgement and stigma. His personal struggles with anxiety have led to growth which has shaped him. Bruce wants to help you manage your OCD and anxiety, so you can live the full, rich, and joyous life you deserve
ANDREA ELLIS, LCPCLicensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Andrea earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. Upon graduation, she worked collaboratively with a treatment team to help the patients at the Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents (RICA) as a Child and Mental Health Associate for over 4 years. She earned her Master’s Degree from McDaniel College in Community Mental Health.

I have provided care in outpatient, inpatient, group and telehealth settings using individualized care plans that are strength based. Meditation and mindfulness is encouraged. Periodic screenings of symptoms can be helpful in tracking response to treatment and may show positive change over time. I enjoy the supervision of Master-Level Social Work Interns to build clinical skills as therapist. While working for the Veterans Healthcare Administration, I received certification in evidence- based treatments – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain, Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy for Combat and Non-Combat Trauma. I believe that evidenced-based care gives people hope, and I have been privledged to witness healing of mind, body and spirit.

CHAYA BUSH, LMSWLicensed Master of Social Work
Chaya received her Bachelor’s degree in English literature from The University of Michigan and my Master’s degree in Social Work from The Catholic University of America. Her approach to therapy is informed by her own neurodivergence. Chaya is compassionate, warm, strengths-based and insight-oriented. Depending upon her clients’ stated needs, she utilizes Inference-based Cognitive behavioral therapy, Exposure and response prevention therapy, elements DBT-Based Mindfulness, EMDR therapy, motivational interviewing, humor, energy work and spiritual exploration.

“Through my work as a therapist and lived experience as an HSP (Highly Sensitive Person) and empath, I understand that we experience the stimuli of daily life in various ways; there is no such thing as too sensitive! In fact, there are countless ways for sensitives to adapt and thrive, starting by embracing our many gifts and accepting our unique neurobiology.

I was inspired to become a therapist by my sensitive, inquisitive, and creative nature. Growing up, I was the peacemaker with whom others shared their feelings. In addition, as a lover of theatre and literature, I was fascinated by characters’ motivations and analyzed them for my college English papers. While I was born a lightworker and sensitive, it is my lived experience with the trauma of chronic pain and Illness that solidified my desire to be the therapist I needed during my journey toward healing from Lyme disease.

The path toward wellness is one of self-discovery; it can be painful and requires humility, fortitude, resilience, and faith in one’s inner guidance. I strive to empower each client to discover this universal truth. Consequently, it is my dark night of the soul experience that inspires me to provide judgment-free support to clients facing all life stressors, symptoms, and challenges.

Lastly, when unable to work, I created some fun hand puppets, based on my drawings of characters that inspired me. They represent five fun themes: art, silliness, space exploration, music, and performance. These puppets are a daily reminder that we can overcome adversity when we have the support we need to believe in ourselves and our life goals and dreams.”

ANNE LEVITSKY, LCPCLicensed Clinical Professional Counselor
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor specializing in obsessive compulsive disorder, grief and loss and mental health concerns related to reproductive issues. I utilize Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy combined with an eclectic style of counseling that is based on the individual needs of my clients.

I am a licensed graduate professional counselor specializing in obsessive compulsive disorder, grief and loss and mental health concerns related to reproductive issues. I utilize Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy and I-CBT combined with an eclectic style of counseling that is based on the individual needs of my clients. I have a Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Marshall University and have experience in a variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, acute, educational and long-term residential care. As both a therapist and someone who has been in your shoes, I know how overwhelming it can feel to make this first step. I want you to know that what you have to say is important, and I strive to create a space where you can safely and freely discuss all of your thoughts and feelings- even the ones you are afraid to say out loud.

JASMIN COOKE, LMSWLicensed Graduate Social Worker
Jasmin is a licensed master social worker specializing in Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Bipolar Disorders. Jasmin utilizes Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, along with Acceptance and commitment therapy when working with clients. Jasmin received her Bachelors degree in Sociology from University of Texas at San Antonio and Master’s degree from the School of Social Work from University of New England.

Jasmin has experience working with in Applied Behavior Analysis with children and teens diagnosed with Autism. She has also worked with individuals whom experienced trauma from sexual assaults and harassment. As someone who understands the struggles of intrusive thoughts, pressured anxiety and the weight of a depressive episode, Jasmin is here to help!

JACOB MCDONALD, LGPCLicensed Graduate Professional Counselor
Jacob’s professional background is in psychiatric rehabilitation programs having experience working as direct support staff as well as a site supervisor. Jacob is open about his personal experience being diagnosed with OCD and going through Exposure and Response Prevention treatment.

Jacob has made it his life’s purpose to help others manage OCD. When he is not working, Jacob enjoys traveling to other countries, teaching historical fencing, and spending quality time with his wife and two shi tzu pups.

REBECCA LEDERMAN, LGPCLicensed Graduate Professional Counselor
Rebecca got her masters degree in clinical mental health counseling at Wake Forest University. Rebecca has specialized training in treating anxiety disorders including OCD, GAD, and social anxiety. She espouses a Cognitive-Behavioral approach while utilizing Exposure and Response Prevention during the counseling process. Rebecca is also trained in inference-based cognitive behavioral therapy for treating OCD. She also enjoys adding elements of mindfulness and existentialism to improve her clients’ lives. Rebecca understands that struggling with OCD or social anxiety can feel quite lonely and isolating at times. She aims to empower clients with the skills they need to take back control over their emotions, feel fulfilled, and create the lives they hope for.

Rebecca hopes to catalyze deep inner healing in her clients. While counseling naturally involves serious work, Rebecca also understands that creativity, humor, and flexibility are the ingredients of a positive therapeutic relationship!

MARISOL ALSTON, LMSWLicensed Master of Social Work
Marisol is a licensed master social worker specializing in mental health and wellness. Marisol has experience working with a variety of diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, substance use disorders, and bipolar disorder. Marisol received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California. She has gained experience working in dual diagnosis centers and private practice. She likes to make use of different modalities based on the individual needs of her clients. Marisol is trained in a variety of evidence-based practices, such as Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)

“My main goal is to help you become your own healer by providing you the necessary tools and guide you in your journey.  My style is informal, since I believe that this allows for clients to feel comfortable and safe to share what is on their mind without any fear of judgment. I decided to join this field due to my own personal struggles with anxiety, and I wanted to become the person I needed when I was struggling the most. Therapy is meant to be for you to feel heard, and to have the space necessary for further healing… I am willing to  provide it!”

JENNA STONE, LMSWLicensed Master Social Worker
I’m Jenna (she/they) and I’m a social justice-oriented therapist who specializes in the treatment of Eating Disorders, OCD, Anxiety Disorders, and BFRBs. Before becoming a licensed therapist, I worked in mental health advocacy and peer-to-peer support. I have a decade of recovery from my own eating disorder and lived experience with OCD. As an AuDHDer, I’m committed to understanding your sensory profile and diving deep into the nuances of your experience. I approach therapy with empathy, curiosity, playfulness, and humor. My work is rooted in a liberation and equity framework that draws upon the intersectionality of critical race theory, feminism, queer theory, and mad studies. I champion an anti-carceral approach to care, where you actively shape your treatment with my guidance and clinical expertise.

I received my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Maryland and Master’s degree in Social Work from Walden University. Before joining Zen Psychological Center, I worked across various clinical settings, including Residential, Partial Hospitalization, and Intensive Outpatient programs, with a primary focus on eating disorders. I embrace a harm-reduction approach based on the principles of Health at Every Size®, respecting your autonomy over your own body. I offer Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Comprehensive Model for Behavioral Treatment (ComB), Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), Unified Treatment (UT), Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Family Based Treatment (FBT) depending on your needs and preferences.

JOEY SHEFFIELD, LMSWLicensed Master of Social Work
Joey Sheffield is a Licensed Master Social Worker. He graduated from the University of Maryland Baltimore with his master’s in Social Work. Joey has been working in the mental health field for five years. He has experience working with people who have OCD, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. Joey uses primarily Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. He tries to make sure that each therapy session is a partnership.
KELLY JONES, LGPCLicensed Graduate Professional Counselor
Hi, my name is Kelly (she/her)! I am a therapist who has experience working with a range of diagnoses including, but not limited to, OCD, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders.

I have received my masters degree in clinical psychology from Towson University. I have gained knowledge working in multiple settings including community mental health centers, inpatient care, and private practices. I tend to utilize different modalities depending on the needs of the individual. I am trained in inference-based cognitive behavioral therapy (I-CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP) for OCD. Additionally, I utilize other therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well as emotion work to aid in working through core fears.

My goal is to find a balance between meeting you where you are and encouraging you to continue to grow to your greatest potential. I recognize the isolation, frustration, and difficulties describing what you are going through, as I have experienced OCD myself. As someone who has now been through treatment, I’m here to tell you that you are not a bad person, but don’t take my word for it, take the first step and reach out to find out for yourself!