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Therapists answer…

Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?

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Karita Nussbaum

Therapist with specialties in substance use, adolescents, and most mental health concerns
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because of my passion for helping people overcome challenges, manage difficult emotions, and achieve their goals. My academic background and personal interest in human behavior led me to this field. I am motivated by the fulfillment of witnessing my clients' growth and progress, and the belief in the power of therapeutic relationships. The opportunity to explore solutions and support clients in a non-judgmental environment keeps me dedicated. Additionally, my love for adventure and the outdoors rejuvenates me and brings fresh perspectives to my practice.
I have a PhD in Counseling Psychology and masters in social work, I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependence Counselor. I like to help anyone find solutions to their problems, manage difficult feelings, and reach their goals. I also enjoy helping both youth and adults increase communication. I use a variety of therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive therapy, gestalt, and psychodynamic primarily. I generally do what I can to help clients reach their treatment goals. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker and chemical dependency counselor. I’ve provided therapy to a variety of mental health and substance problems for people ages 12-75. I enjoy helping people figure out the underlying obstacles to growth and success. I come alongside each client and we work together to explore the known and unknown, identify barriers, problems, and solutions, and set goals for the future. I’m not judgmental, I do my best to understand and encourage each person I work with. We are in this together! I believe that problems come from a variety of sources, sometimes our upbringing teaches us, sometimes thoughts influence what we do, and sometimes we have beliefs that aren’t in alignment with our goals. I believe we can change behavior if we change thoughts and beliefs. I believe everyone wants to live a better life, whatever that is for each of us. I also believe that two are better than one, which is why it’s so helpful to have an outside perspective! In my free time, I enjoy backpacking in the mountains, traveling, and making videos of the trips. I’m always ready for a fun adventure!
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Robert Matthews

Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I have always been deeply passionate about helping others navigate life’s challenges and find healing. Seeing individuals overcome struggles, particularly with substance use and mental health, and achieve lasting recovery is incredibly rewarding. My motivation to continue comes from the belief that everyone deserves a chance to live a fulfilled, healthy life, and I am dedicated to supporting my clients on their journey toward resilience and well-being.
Hello, I’m Robert Matthews, a dedicated counselor focused on helping individuals on their journey to recovery. With a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Temple University, I have over two decades of experience in providing compassionate care. Currently, I counsel clients virtually at Locascio Wellness and offer outpatient support at the Livengrin Foundation in Philadelphia. At Livengrin, I work with individuals managing substance use issues, offering both group and individual sessions and facilitating family support services. In the past, I have supported recovery in residential and outpatient settings, assisting with detox counseling and therapy. My approach is holistic, involving family and educational support, and I am fluent in both English and Spanish. Through warmth and understanding, I create a supportive environment for healing and growth. Let’s work together to achieve your wellness goals. *Treatment philosophy I believe in a compassionate, patient-centered approach to care. My aim is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. I engage deeply with my patients, offering both individual and group counseling tailored to their unique needs. With a focus on substance use issues, I empower individuals through education, family support, and medication-assisted treatment. I prioritize building trust and maintaining open communication, ensuring that every treatment plan is collaborative. My goal is to inspire hope and foster resilience, guiding each person toward lasting recovery and a healthier life. *Treatment approach •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) •Substance Use Counseling •Family Support Services •Trauma-Informed Care •Group Therapy Facilitation •Individual Counseling •Medication-Assisted Treatment •Case Management •Mindfulness-Based Approaches *Practice description At Locascio Wellness, Robert Matthews offers compassionate outpatient counseling to help you navigate life's challenges. With years of experience supporting individuals facing substance use issues, he provides personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Robert is skilled in both group and individual therapy, and he also facilitates family support services. His background includes working with clients in various settings, from residential treatment to outpatient programs. Robert holds a Master's in Counseling Psychology and is fluent in English, ensuring clear communication. Trust Robert to guide you toward a healthier future with empathy and understanding.
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Georgina Coca

Georgina Coca, PMHNP-BC, APRN
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I am deeply passionate about mental health and the profound impact it has on individuals’ lives. My desire to help others navigate their struggles and find healing led me to this rewarding profession. Witnessing clients transform and regain hope is incredibly motivating for me. I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves support and the opportunity to improve their well-being. Continuing education and staying current with best practices also inspire me, as I strive to provide the best care possible for my clients.
Hello, I am Georgina Coca, a dedicated and empathetic Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 18 years of experience in the field. My primary aim is to enhance your well-being and empower you on your journey to recovery. I specialize in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, and ADHD, providing comprehensive and personalized care tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. My extensive experience includes working at Godaelli Psychiatric and Mental Health Center in Woodbridge, Virginia, and previous positions at INOVA Hospital and Mary Washington Hospital, where I have honed my skills in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a variety of behavioral health challenges. I adopt a holistic approach to mental health care, integrating therapy, medication management, and supportive services to ensure a well-rounded treatment experience. My commitment to excellence is reflected in my ability to communicate effectively, maintain meticulous documentation, and manage time efficiently. As a member of the American Nurses Association and the Virginia Nurses Association, I stay current with best practices and advancements in my field, ensuring that you receive the most effective and up-to-date care possible. I accept a range of insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Anthem, to facilitate accessible and inclusive healthcare. I am wholeheartedly dedicated to understanding your concerns, providing clear answers to your questions, and guiding you throughout your treatment experience. You can reach out to me for consultations at my practice in Dumfries, Virginia, or visit my profile on Kiwi Health for more information.
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Shelly Alasti

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner because of my passion for helping others achieve optimal health and well-being. My own journey with weight loss and mental health challenges has given me a deep understanding and empathy for my clients' struggles. What motivates me to continue is seeing the positive changes in my clients' lives as they overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. I am inspired by their resilience and motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on their mental health and overall quality of life.
Welcome to a space where your weight loss journey is understood and supported. As someone who has personally navigated the challenges of shedding pounds, I know the hurdles all too well. My own transformation involved a medical-assisted weight loss program that enabled me to lose 48 pounds in just five months during 2022. The real victory, however, has been keeping that weight off and embracing a healthier lifestyle. My approach to weight management is comprehensive and compassionate. I believe that successful weight loss isn't just about the numbers on a scale—it's about your mental health, your daily habits, and sometimes, the right medical support. Together, we'll explore strategies tailored to your unique needs, fostering sustainable habits that contribute to your overall well-being. Let's embark on this transformative path together, with the goal of not only achieving but also maintaining a healthier you.
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Jason Darden

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner because of my passion for helping others and making a positive impact on their lives. Throughout my career in psychiatric nursing, I have witnessed the transformative power of mental health care and the profound difference it can make in people's lives. My motivation stems from seeing clients overcome obstacles, achieve personal growth, and improve their quality of life through tailored and compassionate care. I am dedicated to lifelong learning, professional development, and staying updated on the latest advancements in psychiatric treatment to provide the highest standard of care to my clients. The satisfaction of making a difference in someone's life and helping them navigate their mental health journey continues to inspire and drive me in my practice.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile! I am a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, bringing personalized mental health care to individuals across North Carolina through JD Wellness, LLC with the convenience of telehealth. My daily commitment is to offer empathetic psychiatric evaluations, deeply understand each person's health journey, and meticulously record their progress for consistent care. I shape my professional knowledge of mental health around the belief that everyone deserves easy access to the care and support they need, when they need it. I provide telepsychiatry services for patients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and medication management along with various other psychiatric disorders. At JD Wellness, LLC, I have a patient-centered approach to mental health care. I believe the input from patients is crucial to designing an effective and individualized treatment plan for them. Throughout the treatment process, I will collaborate with you to establish a trusting relationship and will approach each individual situation with the utmost empathy, understanding, and compassion. I began my studies at Sampson Community College, earning an Associate Degree in Nursing before completing my Bachelor of Science in nursing at Gardner Webb University. I went on to pursue further education at the University of Phoenix, achieving a Master of Science in nursing (with a concentration in healthcare administration). After obtaining my master’s degree, I completed my Post Master’s Degree at Southern Adventist University where I graduated with honors from their Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner’s program. I am a licensed and board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and have over 20 years of psychiatric nursing experience working with a vast array of patients suffering from numerous psychiatric disorders.
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Jerica Foxworth

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to help people navigate life’s difficulties and empower them to find their own path to healing. What motivates me is seeing the positive impact that compassionate care can have on someone’s life. Every step my clients take toward mental wellness inspires me to continue this important work.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, with a Master’s in Nursing. With five years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive care to children, teens, and adults navigating crisis situations. My approach centers on creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their challenges, develop coping strategies, and take control of their mental health. I am passionate about empowering my clients, equipping them with the tools they need to manage conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, ADHD, and schizophrenia. Using evidence-based treatment like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I strive to inspire hope and help my patients achieve mental wellness. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, reading, and spending time with my family, which helps me maintain a balanced and fulfilling life. If you are seeking support during a difficult time, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can work toward clarity and find a path forward.
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Nicole Williams

Holistic Practitioner focusing on mind, body and spirit
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because of a personal call to action following a tragic loss to suicide within my family's circle. This event inspired me to support others, initially focusing on law enforcement professionals and later expanding to all adults facing anxiety and depression. My ongoing motivation stems from witnessing individuals transform tough life experiences into personal triumphs, guided by tailored care plans and the belief in each person's ability to heal and grow.
Hello there! I'm Nicole Williams, the heart behind Blue Transformation, Inc. My mission is to guide adults in their middle years through the ups and downs of anxiety and depression. Together, we'll work towards a life filled with joy and meaningful connections—with others and with yourself. I firmly believe in the power each person holds to heal and grow. With a supportive hand, you can turn life's tough chapters into stepping stones for personal triumph. Drawing from two decades of social work and my journey as a licensed mental health therapist, I've crafted a welcoming space where your story is heard without judgment. Here, we team up to tailor a care plan that's as unique as you are. Blue Transformation bloomed in 2020 from a personal call to action—a desire to help after a family member's friend was lost to suicide. Initially focused on supporting our brave law enforcement community, my practice has since grown to embrace all adults looking for guidance. My approach is all about nurturing the whole you. I blend specialized knowledge in trauma care techniques like EMDR and Brainspotting with the gentle energy of Reiki and the forward momentum of life coaching. Let's embark on this transformative journey together—your path to healing starts here.
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Chakika Williams

Chakika Williams, DNP,MSN,MBA,FNP-BC,PMHNP-BC
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a healthcare provider to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. My passion for patient care, mental health, and aesthetics drives me to help individuals feel their best inside and out. Seeing my patients achieve their health goals and regain confidence motivates me every day. I believe in empowering people through education, collaboration, and compassionate care, ensuring they feel supported on their journey to wellness.
Hello, I'm Dr. Chakika Williams, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner located in Orland Park, Illinois. With over 18 years of experience in healthcare, I specialize in family practice, mental health, and aesthetic medicine. My goal is to provide compassionate and comprehensive care. I am skilled in managing complex medical conditions and committed to helping my patients achieve optimal health. Whether it's through routine health assessments, personalized weight loss plans, or advanced skin treatments, I tailor my approach to meet each patient's unique needs. Communication is key, and I strive to make every patient feel heard and supported. I also have a strong background in multicultural competency, ensuring I provide respectful and inclusive care to all. In the world of aesthetics, I'm your go-to expert for treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers. Education and safety are priorities in my practice, and I aim to enhance your natural beauty while maintaining optimal health standards. I look forward to assisting you on your health journey, making sure you feel confident and cared for every step of the way. Treatment philosophy: I believe in providing compassionate, patient-centered care that prioritizes individual needs. With over 18 years of experience, I focus on creating a safe and welcoming environment for every patient. I engage actively with patients and their families, helping them understand their health and treatment options. My approach combines mental health support with aesthetic treatments, ensuring holistic care for diverse populations. I emphasize preventive measures and promote overall wellness through education and collaboration. Every patient is unique, and I am dedicated to empowering them on their health journey with clear communication and tailored solutions. Together, we can achieve your health goals!
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Prentisha Robinson

Your Favorite Therapist holding you Accountable for Overcoming and Empowering your Life
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because of my passion for empowering individuals and guiding them towards a fulfilling life. My education in psychology and counseling, combined with my experiences at E3 Empowerment, LifeStance Health, and Cypress Point Counseling, has equipped me with the empathy and skills needed to support diverse clients. What motivates me to continue is witnessing the transformative impact of therapy and helping clients achieve clarity, healing, and empowerment. My commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice as a National Certified Counselor also drives my dedication to this field.
Welcome! I'm Prentisha Robinson, your dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor based right in the heart of Dallas, Texas. With a warm approach and a passion for empowerment, I've committed my career to guiding individuals like you toward a more fulfilling life. My journey in mental health began with a solid foundation in psychology from Ashford University, followed by an enriching Master of Science in Counseling from Texas A&M University – Commerce. Along the way, I've not only gained knowledge but also the empathy and skills necessary to support your unique path to wellness. Since becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, I've had the privilege of working with diverse communities across various settings. From my current role at E3 Empowerment to previous experiences at LifeStance Health and Cypress Point Counseling, my mission has always been to provide a safe space for healing and growth. I hold the title of National Certified Counselor with pride, knowing that it reflects my commitment to the highest standards of practice. Whether you're facing life's challenges or seeking personal development, I'm here to listen and walk with you every step of the way. Let's embark on this journey together towards a brighter, more empowered you. *Specialties •Mental Health •Psychotherapy *Conditions treated •Depression •Anxiety •PTSD •Relationship issues •Family counseling •Mood disorders •Trauma •Panic attacks *Treatment philosophy I use an integrative approach. I believe that no one approach will cover every aspect of the issues that clients bring to the table. I collaborate with the client to be most effective because every individual and every situation is unique, and should be treated as such in order to receive the optimal results. In order to effectively help my clients achieve clarity, healing, and reach their goals, I utilize techniques with the most favorable approach to fit the needs of each situation. At the end of our time together, my wish is for you to be enlightened, driven, confident, and empowered to continue on the new and enriched path that you worked so hard to successfully pave during therapy. *Treatment approach •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) •Emotionally Focused •Humanistic •Coaching •Mindfulness-Based(MBCT) •Trauma-Focused •Person-Focused •Culturally Sensitive •Eclectic
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Afsheen Masood

Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a nurse practitioner because of my passion for helping people achieve and maintain optimal health. Over the past 14 years, I have seen the transformative impact that comprehensive healthcare can have on individuals' lives. What motivates me to continue is the ability to build meaningful relationships with my patients and witness their progress as they manage chronic conditions, make healthier lifestyle choices, and address urgent health concerns effectively. The ever-evolving field of healthcare keeps me engaged and committed to learning. My dedication to patient-centered care and my belief in the power of evidence-based medicine drive me to provide the best possible care for my patients every day.
Afsheen Masood, APN is a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience. She specializes in preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Afsheen believes in a patient-centered approach to healthcare and is dedicated to building lasting relationships with her patients. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine and continues to stay updated with the latest healthcare advancements to provide the best care possible. Welcome! I'm Afsheen, your dedicated NP with a passion for keeping you healthy and happy. With 14 years of caring for diverse health needs, I'm all about preventing illness before it starts, guiding you through managing long-term conditions, and cheering you on as you make choices that boost your well-being. Your health journey is personal, and that's why I believe in care that puts you at the center. Let's work together to create a health plan that feels like it's made just for you. I'm committed to staying on top of the latest in health so that you always get the best advice and care out there. Let's start this partnership and keep you thriving for years to come!