Our counselors offer counseling for teens in Cambridge, MA

Christopher Hawkins (AKA Topher) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). He has spent years honing his skills in different settings working with children, adolescents, adults, and their families struggling with the impact trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health disorders can have on the individual, family, and their behaviors.

This experience, combined with the Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling earned at Lesley University, has shown the importance of working collaboratively with the individual, family, and community resources to create a complete picture of the client’s needs. Using both evidence-based practices and expressive therapies, Christopher works with the client to strengthen the apparatus they may require for growth and change.

Christopher’s goal for every person and family that he works with is for both the individual and family dynamic to increase their ability to enhance communication, access coping skills, and gain a deeper understanding of self and their relationship to self and others to promote healing and become more self-reliant. If you are ready to begin this journey, schedule an appointment with him today.

My name is Sarah Murphy, and I have worked in the mental health field for three years now. I primarily work with folks who deal with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, interpersonal relationships, and self-esteem. I have a history working in both community mental health and partial hospitalization programs, helping clients build resilience and develop sustainable ways to manage stress.

I use a variety of methods in my therapy sessions, such as CBT, DBT, expressive therapies, and coherence therapy to support clients in building on their strengths and working on sustainable ways to manage life's stressors. I focus on past patterns, and how they may inform how you behave now, and work from there.

I try to bring humor and empathy to my sessions, and I fully welcome anything and everything you may bring. I am looking forward to collaborating and making therapy a space for you to freely express yourself!

Hello, my name is Alisha VanHillo. I’m a pre-licensed mental health clinician with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Merrimack College, where I graduated in May 2025. I am currently working toward licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Massachusetts. My clinical experience includes supporting individuals and families navigating mental health concerns, substance use, trauma, crisis, and significant life stressors.

My approach is compassionate, person-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based and collaborative. I tailor therapy for each client, whether working with children and adolescents on building trust or supporting adults navigating difficult emotions, stress, and life transitions. My experience in crisis settings deepened my appreciation for compassionate care.

I believe meaningful therapy begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and collaboration. You do not need to have all the answers before beginning. Every person’s journey is different, and you do not have to navigate yours alone. If you or your child is ready to take the next step, I invite you to schedule an appointment.

Hello, I'm Zhiran (Jack) Li, a Mental Health Counselor with 4 years of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions. As an international student and immigrant, I understand the unique pressures of balancing expectations, adapting to change, and finding a sense of belonging. I often work with clients who feel overwhelmed, stuck in patterns of overthinking, struggling with self-doubt, or seeking greater clarity, confidence, and direction in their personal and professional lives.

My approach is collaborative, practical, and goal-oriented. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy, I help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience. Clients can expect a supportive, nonjudgmental space where they gain insight and tools to create meaningful change.

I know reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and I honor the courage it takes to begin. My hope is to provide a space where you feel understood, supported, and not alone in what you're facing. If you're ready to start making meaningful change, I invite you to take the next step and begin this process together.

John Cleary is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience. He specializes in working with teens, adults, and seniors who have a range of concerns, including chronic illness, depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, behavioral problems, and anger.

John earned a Master’s in Social Work from West Virginia University. He uses a variety of clinical approaches targeted to specific needs and challenges, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.

John understands how important it is to find someone you can trust with your goals, and he would love to hear your story and explore how he can best help you. Reach out today to schedule an appointment with John!