Skip to Content
Therapists answer…

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

Tiffany OttoT

Tiffany Otto

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 I have a passion for helping people achieve their best possible mental health. My experiences in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to private practice, have reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate and personalized care. What motivates me to continue is the meaningful progress I see in my patients as they navigate their mental health journeys. Knowing that I can make a positive difference in someone’s life keeps me dedicated to this work every day.
Hello! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping people. After earning my Master's in Nursing from Simmons University in Boston and my Bachelor's from Boston College, I went on to specialize in psychiatric care. I currently work at a Behavioral Health Hospital in CT, where I focus on treating geriatric patients with various mental health conditions. My approach includes supportive, personalized and compassionate care. Previously, I worked at a Private Practice in New Britain, where I prescribed medication, diagnosed and managed treatments for mental health disorders across the life span. I always strive to support my patients and their families through clear communication and comprehensive care plans. Earlier in my career, I was a Registered Nurse at Hartford Hospital's Institute of Living. There, I cared for patients with conditions like depression, dementia, and schizophrenia. I also enjoyed mentoring new nurses and working with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. I'm certified by the American Nurse Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm also trained in Basic Cardiac Life Support. I look forward to partnering with you on your health journey!
Barbara DarkoB

Barbara Darko

Barbara Darko, APRN,PMHNP-BC,A-GNP
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a healthcare provider because I’m passionate about helping people improve their mental and physical well-being. Seeing my patients gain confidence, find stability, and make progress in their journey keeps me motivated every day. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to take control of their health and lead fulfilling lives.
Hi there! I'm Barbara Darko, a dedicated nurse practitioner with expertise in both primary care and mental health. My passion for healthcare is driven by a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. Over the years, I've gained valuable experience in addiction medicine, substance abuse, mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, and PTSD. I love helping patients understand their conditions and guiding them through treatment options and preventive measures. Whether it's performing initial assessments, managing medications, or collaborating with other healthcare professionals, I'm committed to providing the best care possible. In addition to my hands-on experience, I've been involved in clinical research, helping to develop new treatments and ensure the safety and well-being of research participants. If you're looking for a compassionate and knowledgeable healthcare provider, I'm here to help. Let's work together to achieve your health goals! Treatment philosophy In our sessions, you can expect a comfortable and safe environment where you can freely express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. With active listening, I strive to understand your exclusive needs and offer information about mental health, medications, and treatment options to help you make informed decisions about your care. Together, we will establish goals and objectives for your treatment and regularly assess your progress toward those goals.
Amanda JanulisA

Amanda Janulis

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I’m passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, heal from past hurts, and find meaning and fulfillment. Witnessing the strength and resilience people show in their journeys motivates me to continue this work. I find fulfillment in providing a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, gain self-awareness, and develop coping skills. The transformative power of therapy—to foster growth, build resilience, and empower individuals—continues to inspire and drive my commitment to this field every day.
Hello! I’m Amanda Janulis, a warm and relatable therapist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in creating comfortable and safe spaces for individuals facing life's changes, challenges, and losses. I use proven methods like DBT, ACT, and IFS to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. My practice is grounded in understanding trauma, and I’m committed to helping clients find their own path to a meaningful life. I’m licensed to practice in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Delaware. Whether you're dealing with life transitions, workplace stress, or grief, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to cultivate the resources you need to thrive. Available for virtual sessions, I’m ready to meet you wherever you are. I believe in therapy that is personalized, holistic, and centered around your needs. Reach out to begin a journey towards healing and growth. *Treatment philosophy My treatment philosophy is grounded in compassion and partnership. I believe in creating a warm, supportive space where clients can feel safe to explore their challenges. With over 25 years of experience, I utilize evidence-based practices like DBT and ACT to help individuals navigate their journeys. I focus on mindfulness and acceptance to enhance self-awareness and promote healing. Collaboration is key; together, we set meaningful goals and develop coping skills tailored to your unique needs. I deeply value each person's story and strive to empower clients to find their own paths toward well-being. My approach is respectful, genuine, and always patient-centered. *Practice description At Harborlight Counseling, we provide a warm and compassionate space for individuals facing life's challenges. With over 25 years of experience, Amanda Janulis is dedicated to helping you navigate transitions, trauma, and grief. She uses evidence-based therapies tailored to your unique needs, including styles like DBT and ACT, to support your mental health journey. Amanda is licensed to practice in five states and excels in online therapy, creating a secure and supportive environment from the comfort of your home. Let's work together to cultivate your strengths and build a meaningful, fulfilling life. Your well-being is our priority.
Jennifer DotsethJ

Jennifer Dotseth

MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
In-Person Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to help people through life’s toughest challenges. Seeing clients regain hope and find relief keeps me motivated to continue offering the best care possible.
Hi! My name is Jennifer and I am passionate about providing compassionate and effective mental health care. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I'm dedicated to helping clients through difficult times and guiding them toward better well-being. I enjoy helping individuals with a variety of mental health concerns, including treatment resistant mental health disorders and treatment during pregnancy and the postpartum period. If you feel that you've tried everything, come see me and we can discuss this further! I've worked in the healthcare field since 2006, starting as a Certified Medical Assistant before becoming a nurse about 10 years later. I've worked in a variety of settings and with a variety of client populations. My experience in corrections/forensics has allowed me to increase my communication and crisis intervention skills. I am a proud member of both the International Association of Forensic Nurses and the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, ensuring that my practice is always informed by the latest in mental health care. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring the outdoors, and staying active in the community. My goal is to establish an honest and trusting relationship with my clients while working together toward their goals. Thank you for considering me as your healthcare provider.
Juan MailloJ

Juan Maillo

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health and relationship challenges. My journey in mental health care began over a decade ago, and during this time, I have seen the transformative power of therapy in people's lives. I am motivated by the positive changes I witness in my clients as they gain self-awareness, develop coping strategies, and achieve their goals. The Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy approach, which emphasizes compassionate self-awareness, deeply resonates with me. It offers concrete tools for healing and helps clients change how they relate to their inner selves. Seeing my clients grow, heal, and achieve a better quality of life continues to inspire and motivate me in my practice.
Welcome to a space where your mental well-being is the priority. I'm Juan Maillo, a dedicated bilingual therapist fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, committed to guiding adults through their mental health and relationship challenges. In my Santa Rosa-based telehealth practice, I offer personalized psychotherapy with the convenience and comfort of connecting from your own home. My approach is rooted in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, a compassionate and empowering method that can transform your life. My journey in mental health care spans over more than a decade that include several specialty clinics. There, I supported individuals grappling with a spectrum of psychological concerns, from depression to anxiety, burn-out, and relationship challenges. With my expertise in several evidence-based therapy modalities, I've helped countless clients navigate their paths to recovery. My therapeutic approach is goal-oriented and based on fostering compassionate self-awareness. Together, we'll collaborate on setting clear goals. I'll offer valuable feedback and guidance tailored to support your unique healing journey. Let's work together to help you achieve the positive changes you seek. Ready to embark on a path to better mental health? Connect with me today!
Avani ThakkarA

Avani Thakkar

PMHNP-BC
In-Person Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to help people navigate mental health challenges and empower them to improve their lives. Seeing the positive impact of my work and helping patients on their journey to recovery continues to inspire and motivate me every day.
I'm Avani Ketan Thakkar, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over 17 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping people from diverse backgrounds improve their mental health. I specialize in psychopharmacology and have a deep understanding of mental health medications. My passion lies in providing personalized care to my patients. Whether it's working with someone facing trauma, depression, anxiety, or personality disorders, I focus on creating a trusting relationship to develop effective treatment plans. I also lead mindfulness and meditation sessions. I’ve been teaching for over 20 years. I work closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. I also mentor future nurse practitioners and staff, sharing my knowledge and experience to foster a supportive and knowledgeable healthcare community. In addition to my clinical work, I bring a calm and steady presence to challenging situations, ensuring a safe environment for both patients and staff. My commitment to evidence-based care and continuous learning enables me to provide high-quality support to those in need. I hold multiple degrees, including a Master's in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Health Administration, and a Bachelor's in Nursing. My broad educational background and extensive hands-on experience equip me to handle a variety of mental health challenges compassionately and effectively. As a member of several professional nursing associations, I stay updated with the latest practices and standards in mental health care. My dedication to my field has been recognized with numerous awards, and I strive to continue providing top-notch care to my patients everyday.
Chelesia Burkes-BrownC

Chelesia Burkes-Brown

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric metal health nurse practitioner because of my passion for helping others lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. What keeps me motivated is seeing the positive changes in my patients, knowing that I’m helping them overcome challenges and improve their overall well-being.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in helping individuals at all stages of life. I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, brief psychotherapy, and effective medication management for various mental health disorders. My practice also includes educating patients and their families about mental health, treatment options, and preventative care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to develop personalized treatment plans, carefully monitor progress, and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal care. I utilize modern tools like electronic medical records and e-prescribing, ensuring a seamless and efficient healthcare experience. In my previous roles, I've had the opportunity to work with children and adolescents in juvenile development centers, adults in the forensic setting, as well as students in university settings. I believe in a holistic approach, considering factors such as genetics, family dynamics, and cultural issues in my assessments. I am dedicated to constant learning and applying evidence-based practices to help my patients lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. At the heart of my practice is a commitment to patient-centered care, open communication, and a genuine passion for mental health. I'm here to support you and your loved ones on the journey to better mental well-being.
John SparksJ

John Sparks

John Sparks, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner because I’m passionate about helping others achieve mental wellness. Seeing how mental health impacts every aspect of life, I wanted to be a part of that healing process. The positive changes I witness in my clients’ lives continue to motivate me to provide the best care possible.
Welcome! I’m Dr. John Sparks, a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). With nine years of overall experience and five years specializing in mental health, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals of all ages in managing their mental and physical health. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Personality Disorders, Trauma, Tic Disorders, and Adjustment Disorders. I’m committed to providing empathetic and comprehensive care that empowers you to take control of your mental wellness, working together toward long-term improvements in your mental health and quality of life. Specialties & Conditions: • Mental Health • Addiction • ADHD • Adjustment disorders • Anxiety • Autism • Bipolar Disorder • Borderline Personality (BPD) • Chronic Impulsivity • Depression • Eating disorders • First Responders • Impulse Control Disorders • Insomnia • Medication Management • Mood disorders • Narcissistic Personality (NPD) • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Oppositional Defiance (ODD) • Panic attacks • Personality Disorders • Psychosis • PTSD • Tic Disorders • Trauma Treatment philosophy: I believe in the power of listening and open communication to create a treatment plan that aligns with your goals. My approach focuses on fostering a supportive environment where you feel comfortable discussing your concerns and collaborating on your care. I’m here to guide you with clear, respectful conversations, ensuring you fully understand your treatment options and feel confident in the decisions we make together. You can expect to leave each session with a thorough understanding of your care plan, medications, and why adjustments might be necessary. My ultimate goal is to equip you with the knowledge and confidence needed for lasting mental health and overall well-being. Treatment approach: • Culturally Sensitive • Trauma-Focused • Person-Focused • Humanistic • Coaching • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Brief Dynamic • Motivational Interviewing
Kaleigh RobinsonK

Kaleigh Robinson

Kaleigh Robinson, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, RN
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I’m passionate about helping people overcome challenges and live fuller lives. Seeing individuals achieve positive changes, whether through therapy, medication, or holistic care, motivates me to continue. Every step forward my patients take reminds me of the importance of personalized, empathetic mental health care.
Hi, I’m Kaleigh Robinson, and I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained at Johns Hopkins with 20 years of experience. I believe in truly getting to know my patients and understanding their unique challenges. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic. I offer a variety of treatment options, including therapy, medication management, and natural, holistic approaches like nutritional support, stress management, and exercise counseling. I’ll empower you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your mental health. My goal is to work with you to achieve better mental wellness at your own pace. Licensed in both Maryland and Colorado, I’m committed to providing affordable, accessible care, and I look forward to supporting you on your mental health journey. Treatment philosophy: I believe that you know yourself best. My role is to support you in reaching your mental health goals, offering personalized care based on what works for you. I combine therapy, medication, and holistic approaches, empowering you to make informed decisions. My philosophy is rooted in empathy, science-based care, and a commitment to helping you live your best life.