Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Cambridge, MA

"As a nurse who has been practicing nursing for over 20 years and a Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator (of 10 years as well) working for a major city hospital in Massachusetts; caring for a wide ethnic group as well as young adults to geriatric population; working with many patients with mental health and substance abuse disorders in the in-patient and outpatient settings, I have practically seen it all and recognize some of the barriers to healthcare that the vulnerable and underserved population face therefore can understand the stigmatization and difficulty associated with caring for such group."

Mackie is a certified nurse practitioner currently working for a level 1 trauma center in Boston. In that role, she has the opportunity to care for a large population of homeless with mental health and substance abuse problems. A large component of the care provided involves the management of the psychological and social aspects through continuity of care and referrals. 

Mackie is a self-driven healthcare professional who has used the knowledge acquired through the years of working at Boston Medical Center, the mental health program at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS), and the related precepting experience to condition herself to better help serve the mentally ill and substance abuse disorder population. Within the community that Mackie serves, she has found that mental health disorders is considered taboo and an unspoken topic of discussion among a large segment of its population. Aside from having to deal with the unprecedented psychological and physiological manifestation of the disorder, there are also the social components of recognition and acceptance of the disorder that is burdensome for some patients. Many of the clients that Mackie has come to observe, not only have to deal with mental health issues but suffer greatly from the lack of family support, in part, due to the associated stigma of the disorder. In addition to the psychological and medical therapeutic treatments that these clients received, many yearn for assistance from family and loved ones to help them cope, as their goals are to fight these demons and get better.

Mackie has a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from Houston University; a Bachelor and Master’s in Nursing from Regis College; a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Nursing Psychiatric Mental Health from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS). Mackie is an effective communicator with strong verbal and written skills and a calm demeanor that enables her to concisely communicate and connect with clients. Every case is different, each situation is unique, therefore a plan of care that involves the management of the psychological and social aspects through continuity of care and referrals; education on medication continuation and discontinuation risk factors; reinforcement of adherence to treatment plan; instructions to crisis intervention access; cognitive behavioral therapy; talk therapy or group therapy to improve confidence and social interaction; are among a few of the approaches that Mackie considers.

Suffering from social anxiety disorder can bring about feelings of inadequacy, pessimism, resentfulness, and fear of public engagement. Mackie is poised to help you channel your avoidance of social gatherings through understanding the severity of the symptoms you are experiencing and engaging you on a roadmap that would help manage those symptoms and improve the quality of your life. Why not schedule a visit with her when you feel comfortable to do so?

Margaret Oloyede is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with 8 years of experience treating adults who are struggling to cope with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and eating disorders. 

Margaret received her Master’s of Science from Regis College—Massachusetts. Her past experience includes having provided inpatient care, as well as having worked in outpatient settings, offering psychiatric care to patients who have complex or chronic illnesses.

Work with Margaret to start prioritizing your mental health—she’ll offer expert guidance and support as you both address the difficult situations or mental health conditions that are causing your emotional pain. Margaret’s goal is to help stabilize your mental health while also increasing your physical activity, self-reassurance, and coping skills through quality psychiatric care.

"I understand the complex and dynamic needs associated with mental health challenges—and can help you fulfill those needs. "

Marissa Ross is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats a variety of mental health concerns including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, sleep, insomnia, PTSD, substance abuse, and women's issues. Marissa is a compassionate provider with strong clinical skills and an emphasis on following evidence-based guidelines.

Marissa completed her PMHNP program at Rivier University-Nashua. Through her studies at Rivier, Marissa established strong clinical skills and rapport-building techniques in working with adult patients. Marissa provides culturally sensitive, emotionally-focused, and person-centered care through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). 

Marissa is confident in her ability to support adult patients seeking guidance in coping with a variety of mental health struggles. If you are ready to get started on your healing journey, schedule an appointment with her today. 

Anne Turley is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in practice since 2014. She is well-versed in treating a wide range of diagnoses in patients aged 6-65. Anne is comfortable reaching outside traditional practice settings to care for patients and has embraced telemedicine as the key access to care advancement of the decade. Anne’s specialty areas include teenagers, autism spectrum disorder, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, treatment-resistant anxiety disorders, and multi-diagnosis cases.

Anne completed her Masters of Nursing Practice at the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston and is licensed to practice in Massachusetts. She has worked in private practice, community mental health, therapy schools, and residential treatment settings. Anne integrates principles of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) into her psychopharmacological treatment sessions. Anne seeks to embrace the full individuality of her patients; she applies medical knowledge in the context of each person’s unique personality, strengths and barriers, and stage of life. She is a dedicated evidence-based practitioner, remaining up to date on psychopharmacology and therapy advances by attending conferences and trainings regularly and continually reading the evidence base.

Anne is also a dedicated teacher; she guest lectures at her alma mater and precepts nurse practitioner students on a regular basis. Anne operates from a place of empathy and acceptance in her practice. She addresses her patients with caring honesty and a persistent focus on progressing towards treatment goals. She strives in sessions to help patients understand their mental health both medically and emotionally and to continually discuss the benefits and risks of psychopharmacology interventions. Anne looks forward to meeting you and becoming a part of your journey.

Alice Husted is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has 10 years of experience treating adults and adolescents (13 and older) with an array of mental health issues. Alice has specialized experience working with patients who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which has provided her expertise in treating disorders that are often a result of trauma, such as addictions, mood disorders, and eating disorders. She completed her master's degree in Psychiatric Nursing at MGH Institute of Health Professions.

Alice has a special interest in integrating various forms of treatment including western traditional medicine, meditation, and mindfulness. Above all, she has a deep respect for those who are willing to seek treatment and looks forward to helping individuals take charge of their emotional health.

Danielle Baliva is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has over 6 years of professional experience working with individuals, families, adolescents, and children seeking treatment for a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, and PTSD. 

She received her Master's degree in Social Work from Roberts Wesleyan College and understands that beginning therapy can be overwhelming. Therefore, she prioritizes fostering a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect. Danielle's approach to therapy is non-judgmental, compassionate, and honest. 

She strives to work collaboratively with her clients to improve coping skills, increase self-awareness, and empower them to reach their goals and achieve wellness. Danielle utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-informed practices, and mindfulness-based practices to help her clients navigate challenges. She works together with her clients to find a modality that best meets their individual needs. 

"As a woman of mixed cultural and ethnic backgrounds who made a late career change, I understand the issues of not recognizing where you are in your life and wanting to make a change."

Leyla Derbali is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults and couples explore their struggles as they make the changes necessary to lead more fulfilling and contented lives. Leyla specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, school issues, career issues, and significant life transitions.

Leyla completed her Master's degree in Social Work at Simmons University and her Multi-Therapy Services at Harvard University. She made a late career change and understands needing to re-evaluate life plans and the subsequent anxieties and excitement of major life changes. This perspective and other relevant life and professional experiences inform Leyla's ability to provide the empathy, support, and guidance her clients need. Leyla specializes in multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy.

Life and making happiness can be challenging for everyone. Leyla can help support you as you work to gain insight and coping skills to process your struggles and manage in the face of setbacks as you work to make positive changes. If you are ready to begin the process of recovery, schedule an appointment with her today.

"As a man of color who has lived in this country for more than 24 years, I can understand people through multiple perspectives. "

Dr. Sumio Shinohara is a Licensed Psychologist (LP) with more than 15 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, men’s issues, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, grief and loss, and relationship issues. 

Dr. Shinohara earned his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Abilene Christian University and completed his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at William James College in MA. He also received his psychoanalytic training at the Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis.

Dr. Shinohara's primary therapeutic approach is eclectic, including person-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and psychodynamic approaches, and values each client's experience of feeling deeply and empathetically understood. Through the experience of feeling understood, clients will also be able to have opportunities to understand more about themselves, which usually brings multiple positive improvements in clients' life.

Dr. Shinohara believes in the power of empathy and acceptance clients can experience in a safe therapeutic relationship. He seeks to establish a caring, respectful, and compassionate relationship with clients who have difficulty accepting negative aspects of themselves. Dr. Shinohara will also encourage clients to focus on the root cause of the issues in addition to coping and managing their symptoms.

"As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is key to your success in therapy, where you can expect to be free of judgment while trusting that I have the knowledge and expertise to help you work through the issues that brought you here."

David is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health. He is passionate about helping individuals and couples work through their issues in a way that promotes hope. David specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, relationship issues, and major life transitions. David completed his Master of Mental Health Counseling at Cambridge College. Like many therapists, David found his passion for mental health through his own experiences and recovery from substance abuse, which, combined with his professional experience, allows him to have deep compassion and understanding for his clients.

His approach to treatment is multi-dimensional using a person-centered and strength-based approach, using techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and exposure therapy.

David takes an exclusive approach to each individual to meet them where they are and creates a journey that provides light for the path ahead from day one. If this sounds like a good fit for you schedule an appointment with David today!

Jennifer Quell is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 4 years of experience working with teens and adults who are experiencing the negative effects of anger issues, anxiety, ADHD, difficult life transitions, OCD, racial identity issues, academic issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, sleep, insomnia, stress, trauma, PTSD, and women’s issues. Empathy is not only a quality that Jennifer possesses but is the framework for how she conducts therapy. 

Jennifer's specialties include working with a diverse set of individuals, couples, families, in both team and group settings. She has also worked with those in crisis and has experience in numerous emergency-related situations, which has expanded itself to include the capability to assess one’s mental state and the ability to detect unwanted symptoms.

Jennifer is trained in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychological first aid (PFA). She's very concerned about what her clients identify as problem areas, and will work unwaveringly to help you first face these hardships, then to accomplish each goal that at one time, felt unattainable.

Grace Ngumi is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Massachusetts. She has over 15 years of experience working as a nurse in various nursing specialties and in particular mental health and dual diagnosis settings. As an NP she has worked with patients seeking help with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, and bipolar disorders.

Grace completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Curry College in Milton, MA, and received her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Grace utilizes her past experience, education, and clinical expertise to provide holistic care and ethical care that is compassionate while maintaining a healing environment. 

Grace seeks to collaborate with her patient and other health care providers in order to ensure that the care she provides is holistic and is centered on the patient's wellbeing.

"I seek to understand the complexities of what it means to be human in a rapidly changing environment. "

Alicia Ziegler is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the Greater Boston area who has experience working with a variety of individuals facing challenges with unemployment, trauma, substance use disorders, mental health, violence including intimate partner violence, gun violence, gang violence, and race-based violence.

Alicia received her B.A. in Society and Health in 2008 from Simmons University. After graduating from undergrad, Alicia worked in retail for two years while volunteering with different non-profit organizations in Boston. Alicia was accepted into the Simmons University School of Social Work in the Fall of 2010 and graduated with her MSW in Spring 2012. As a clinician, Alicia strives to develop a safe and trusting environment while understanding the many complexities and nuances of what it means to be human. Her approaches to individual therapy include, but are not limited to the person-in-environment (PIE) framework, harm reduction, trauma-informed practices, solution-focused therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Alicia understands that individuals do not exist in a vacuum; there are systems in place that act upon individuals. Navigating systemic inequities can be incredibly intimidating and challenging. Alicia addresses how trauma, institutionalized racism, White supremacy, microaggressions, race-based trauma, violence, poverty, homophobia, and transphobia impact an individual’s or group of individuals' access to healthcare, mental health care, housing, employment, and other services. 

Jennifer Royster is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has experience working with diverse populations across the lifespan. She has 9 years experience in a variety of settings supporting clients through acute medical concerns, family dynamics, birth, adoption, substance use disorders, mental illness, end of life, and bereavement. Jennifer completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Salem State University. She also completed a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Communications.

Jennifer believes Ralph Waldo Emerson said it best that "the only person you are destined to become is the person that you decide to be". Jennifer uses a strength-based, nonjudgmental approach. She utilizes elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to help support her clients.

Jennifer believes that life is about self-discovery and enjoys working with her clients to create a safe space to grow

"As a hispanic woman growing up in a single family household, I understand some of the issues of diversity and the importance of overcoming challenges."

Rebecca Rodriguez is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with 11 years of experience working with individuals that have faced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, incarceration, violence, substance use, unemployment, trauma, and more. 

Rebecca received her Master's degree in Social Work from Bridgewater State University. Her approach to helping others is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but instead, she works with clients to find out what works best for them. Some of these approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed, solutions-focused therapy, and narrative therapy. She'll provide a safe and non-judgmental space to talk about your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. 

As a Hispanic woman growing up in a single-family household, Rebecca understands how discrimination can affect clients, and values diversity and the importance of overcoming challenges. She'll work with you to overcome your challenges with her expert assistance, session by session. 

"As a psychiatric nurse working in Boston, MA, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to my patients."

Grace is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) whose focus is to assess and treat patients' health concerns, including anxiety and depression. She is passionate about working with patients and creating appropriate multi-modal treatment plans to address various mental health concerns. The goal is to work with her patients to help them achieve their ultimate level of functioning. Medication management is a vital part of a multi-modal treatment plan. In addition to medication management, she follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.

Grace completed her Master's in Nurse Education at Curry College and Nurse Practitioner Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health from Regis College. While at Regis College, her studies focused on caring for patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. Grace possesses strong clinical skills and effective communication skills that help her build rapport with patients and families. In addition to medication management, she incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), culturally sensitive, person-centered, and solutions-focused therapy.

We all go through challenges in life. These challenges can cause stress and bring difficulties, sadness, panic, depression, anxiety, and emotional shock. Grace is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives provide opportunities to learn, and acquire coping skills and growth pathways that allow you to cope with your struggles. If you are ready to get started, schedule an appointment with her today.

Doug Crook is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Massachusetts. He has nearly 20 years of experience working in the mental health field in various roles including mental health counselor and registered nurse. He has held clinical and management positions. He has primarily worked on inpatient psychiatric units—with both adults and children. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Salem State College and recently his Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice at Regis College. His doctoral research was focused on providing behavioral health education to nurses caring for pediatric patients with behavioral health needs on non-psychiatric, inpatient units. Doug understands the profound effects that challenges with mental health can have and the importance of addressing these challenges appropriately. He values a collaborative relationship with his clients and working together on a plan of care that is reasonable and effective. Doug aims to create a safe, non-judgmental space to develop this close working relationship with his clients, so that he can support their journey towards achieving personal goals and mental wellness.

"My goal is to create a safe space where folks feel seen, heard, and comfortable sharing their struggles — together, we'll work on building the skills and tools to address life's challenges."

Karissa Peoples is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Starting her career in advocacy and case management for assault and trafficking survivors, she has continued to strengthen her clinical skills working with adults both locally and abroad. Karissa specializes in trauma, mood disorders, and addictions. She has provided support for individuals with chronic illness in the acute inpatient setting, as well as ongoing support in intensive outpatient programs and clinics.

Karissa obtained her Bachelor of Social Work from Ohio State University and her Master of Clinical Social Work from Boston College. She utilizes interventions from cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy to meet the needs of her clients.

Life is full of ups, downs, and situations outside our control. Karissa believes that the job of a therapist is not to judge or "fix people," but to empower and encourage folks — to provide a safe space to work through challenges one may face.

"As a trained physician, experienced oriental medicine practitioner, and PhD medical researcher, I believe in a holistic approach to physical, mental, and spiritual health."

Jing J. Liu is a Resident Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience in a variety of healthcare settings. She specializes in assisting adults and seniors, including families and couples, who are coping with major life transitions, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Jing connects with clients to create a space for vulnerability, reflection, healing, and empowerment.

Jing has a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Massachusetts Boston. She works with a client-centered approach and utilizes treatment models including mindfulness, spiritual healing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and compassion-focused therapy. Jing also specializes in meditation and somatic healing.

Jing believes in emphasizing the importance of compassion in interactions with the world and the self. She looks forward to working with you as a team to assist you in attaining your goals. Schedule your first appointment with Jing today!

"I love helping individuals become the greatest versions of themselves. "

Shanta Cortez-Greig is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 8 yrs of experience working with children, teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking help in coping with surviving trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, chronic stress, communication issues, dysfunctional relationships, and more.

Shanta utilizes an integrative approach to therapy and counseling, relying on cognitive behavioral techniques (CBT) and humanistic methods, as well. 

She also specializes in helping to address partner-related difficulties through couple's therapy.  

Work with Shanta to start finding solutions to the everyday problems that are facing you, regardless of age. And for couples, you can lean on Shanta to help you through turbulent patches in your relationship, while learning how to communicate and achieve your shared and personal goals.