The following is a brief description of the therapists background, however please understand that each therapist has a more broad and experienced skill set than what is included in their bio's.

Marie Scodari, MSW, LCSW, Director

Marie has been a MSW since 1982 and became licensed in 1994 when licenses were permitted in the field. Marie has been in the field of social work since 1982 and began her private practice in 1989. Ms. Scodari has been trained in many of the modalities offered at Inner Light. Some of Marie's training and certifications include EMDR, NIP (new identity process), Gestalt Therapy, Imago Therapy (couple's therapy), Seimei, the Journey Process and Minuchin Family Therapy. Inner Light Counseling and Holistic Center was born out of her passion for helping clients get the most out of their therapeutic treatment. Marie uses a psycho-dynamic therapeutic approach while incorporating many of the above mentioned action therapies. She believes in treating the whole person - body, mind, emotions and spirit. Marie works with our adult clients.

Eileen Walton, MA, LPC

Eileen Walton is a Board Certified Professional Counselor. She received the distinction as a testament to her professional excellence from the American Psychotherapy Association in May 2008. Eileen has been a therapist at Inner Light Counseling Center since 2006. In her practice, Eileen specializes in individual and couples counseling. She employs an eclectic approach utilizing numerous psychodynamic techniques, which aim at healing developmental wounds. Eileen is certified in Reiki and Journey process. She is also certified in Psychological First Aid and Traumatic Incident Intervention. Additionally, Eileen is certified in Advanced Post Traumatic Stress Management and is an active member of the Essex County Traumatic Loss Coalition. Eileen has extensive experience in dealing with a variety of childhood and adolescent issues.

Irene Guarino, M.A., LPC, NCC

Irene Guarino is a Board Certified, Licensed Professional Counselor with over 40 years experience working with individuals, couples, children, adolescents and families. Irene graduated from Kean University in 1983 with a Master’s Degree in Behavioral Sciences and in 1997 with a Master’s Degree in Counseling. She has extensive experience with issues related to grief and loss, divorce, anger management, anxiety and trauma. As a trained crisis counselor, she has worked with families who have experienced sudden traumatic loss as a result of suicide, homicide and accidental death. Irene is experienced with a wide range of techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, Gestalt therapy, Imago Therapy as well as utilization of mindfulness relaxation techniques. She has extensive training in dealing with Post Traumatic Stress, Sexual Trauma and Couples Counseling. She offers an eclectic approach using a wide variety of modalities that would address the needs of her clients in order to empower them to overcome the many challenges they face. Because she provides a positive and nurturing environment, it is through therapy that her clients are able to recognize their strengths and find inner peace.

Monica Avisado, LSW

Monica is a NJ Licensed Social Worker. She graduated with her Master Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University with a clinical concentration and Violence Against Women and Children Certificate. She received her Bachelor in Social Work from Ramapo College. Monica’s populations of expertise include survivors of sexual or domestic violence, persons with disabilities, pregnant and parenting teens, children and families. She has experience working within preschools, middle schools and high schools as well as with Division of Child Protection and Permanency and Children’s System of Care clients.

When she is not counseling with Inner Light, Monica works at a rape crisis center and volunteers on evenings and weekends as a Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate. Her clinical interventions may incorporate empowerment and solution-focused methods, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, as well as play or art therapy to help her clients overcome anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or other troubling thoughts and feelings.

She believes in tailoring interventions to each client’s strengths and ensures a safe and welcoming space. Monica is passionate about what she does and eager to learn new ways to support the emotional growth of her clients.

Hope Capra, LCSW

Hope received a Masters Degree in Social Work from Fordham University, a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University, and a law degree from Columbia University. Trained in psychodynamic therapy, she also draws on more interactive modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused problem solving, and Non-Violent Communication.

In addition, Hope offers therapies that support the connections between the mind and the body. She is a certified Core Energetics practitioner, a certified medical Qi Gong practitioner, and is trained in EMDR. Her practice includes individuals of all ages as well as couples and families. Hope’s integrated holistic and personalized approach addresses common concerns such as anxiety, sadness, and indecision. She particularly enjoys helping clients improve family, friend, and workplace relationships. She also has years of experience working with survivors of abuse, trauma, high-conflict family dynamics, and addiction-related issues. Hope brings patience, compassion, open-mindedness, and pragmatism to her work.

Hope believes therapy is a creative quest leading to enhanced health, fulfillment and aliveness.

Ashley Romero, LCSW

Ashley is delighted to continue her journey at Inner Light. Ashley is a Licensed Social Worker, and earned her master’s degree with honors from Rutgers University in 2010, and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ramapo College of NJ in 2007. During school, Ashley had extensive education in mental health, gender/LGBTQ issues, and loss and bereavement. Ashley has also earned a certificate in An Introduction to the Hakomi Method, based on Mindfulness and Somatics in Experiential Psychotherapy. In addition to her education, Ashley has experience working with children and families that have been referred to Child Protective Services, adults and adolescents in out-patient hospital settings, and individuals with mental and physical limitations.

Ashley seeks to create an environment for people of all ages and backgrounds to feel connected, safe, and honored as the divine and unique person they are with kindness, compassion and non-judgment as a means to do so. Ashley has found her way to successfully customize a client’s journey based on the client’s needs and goals, while recognizing that in order to get well- we have to focus on not only the mind, but the body and spirit as well.

With that notion, Ashley blends a variety of techniques and modalities when working with others (mindfulness and meditation, art, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, solution focused, and Gestalt therapy) in this way, clients are receiving the most from their counselors experience . Outside of Inner Light, Ashley is pursuing her yoga teaching certification and is an avid supporter of many environmental and animal welfare organizations. “You cannot travel the path until you have become the path itself”- Buddha.

Judy Rogers, MSW, LCSW

Judy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, a Master’s in Education from the College of New Jersey and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the College of New Jersey. Judy has 30 years of experience in the behavioral health field and has learned that regardless of our outer differences, we all cope with many of the same feelings, fears, anxieties and life concerns on the inside.

One of her guiding priciples is “To make the unspoken – spoken” and in doing so we ease the power of our fears and worries by working through them openly and with courage. She also believes “A good cry is worth a thousand words”. Judy has extensive experience helping others recover from loss and trauma and has worked with victims of major disasters like Sept 11 and Hurricane Sandy. Judy utilizes a mind/body and person centered approach with the goal of empowerment and recovery. She specializes in women’s issues, recovery from trauma, addiction and codependency, personal growth and enhanced self awareness.

“We are mind, body, feelings and spirit and all must be engaged in this journey for a fulfilling life”.

Margaret Huettenmoser. MSW, LCSW

Margaret Huettenmoser joined the staff of Inner Light Counseling in June of 2015. Ms. Huettenmoser graduated from Rutgers UMDNJ with honors receiving a dual Bachelor Degree in Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Psychology going on to receive her Master’s in Social Work from Kean University.

Ms. Huettenmoser has experience working for various populations with a focus on mental health, individual, marriage and family issues. She has specialized in work with individuals, couples and families to begin to heal trauma from mental illness, addiction, depression, grief and loss. Ms. Huettenmoser uses an eclectic approach with techniques that include mindfulness relaxation, anger expression and cognitive/behavioral therapy. She takes a holistic approach to implement strategies and therapy focusing on deepening relationships, a positive sense of self, the healing of mind, body and spirit.

Ms. Huettenmoser assists individuals and couples to recognize and utilize their full potential to heal. She provides a safe and supportive environment to enhance and promote the well-being of individuals and families.

Allison Schaeffler, LCSW

Allison has worked in the field of mental health for over 20 years. She has a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Teacher’s College, Columbia University. Allison also has a master’s degree in social work form Columbia University with a focus in health, mental health and disabilities. She has had extensive experience working with individuals and their families coping with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders and personality disorders.

Allison is very passionate about helping individuals to develop the tools necessary for living a rich and meaningful life. She utilizes psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness-based stress reduction and play therapy approaches in working with individuals.

Micki Frazier, LCSW

Micki is a NJ Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Boston University and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Simmons College School of Social Work in 2003. Micki is a recent transfer from Boston where she has worked with at-risk youth involved in the legal system. She has experience working with individuals, couples and families. Micki is also certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

In addition to DBT, she also utilizes cognitive behavior therapy, psychodynamic therapy, strength based and solution focused therapy, as well as art and play therapy. She specializes in working with clients of all ages struggling with depression and anxiety, addiction, anger management, relationship issues, trauma, behavioral disorders, ADHD, ODD, and general everyday stress. Micki’s approach is supportive and goal oriented to help each individual reach their full potential and a sense of inner peace.

Monique Pearlman, M.S.W, L.S.W

Monique Pearlman received her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Rutgers University with a specialization in Children and Families. Monique is a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Monique has 15 years’ experience working with children, adolescents and adults, focusing on domestic abuse and sexual violence. She also has extensive experience working with issues ranging from anxiety to trauma, PTSD, relationships, grief, self esteem and coping with every day stress. Monique is highly knowledgeable with violence against women in the area of interventions and trainings. She shares her expertise by facilitating a workshop for Rutgers University, Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) certification program.

Monique utilizes a client-centered approach while using cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, mindfulness and trauma- informed care to help her clients heal. She empowers her clients to recognize their inner strengths and supports them as they begin their healing journey. She provides a safe, warm and nurturing environment where her clients can process and move towards growth and stability.

Monique was a coordinator for a violence prevention program for 10 years where she developed and presented violence prevention curricula. She is a certified school social worker and a strong advocate for the rights of domestic violence and sexual violence survivors.

Sharon Sarno, MSW, LCSW

Sharon Sarno is a licensed social worker, who has worked in the field since 1984. She has a graduate degree in clinical social work from Rutgers University. Sharon believes in a holistic therapeutic approach and focuses on biological, psychological and social factors that contribute to mental well being. Her greatest level of experience lies with treating such issues as depression, anxiety, loss, grief and coping strategies revolving around chronic illness and divorce. Through cognitive therapy and mindful strategies, Sharon helps individuals to change patterns in distorted thinking and faulty learning experiences. Sharon is warm and welcoming. She understands and empathizes with individual’s pain and difficulties. Sharon believes therapy leads individuals to happier, healthier and more productive lives.

Joann Lee Anderson, MSW, LSW, CAC, CCTP, CSAT

Joann Lee Anderson, MSW, LSW, CAC, CCTP, CSAT is a licensed social worker, certified addictions counselor and trauma therapist. She is also a certified sexual addiction therapist. Joann graduated from Columbia University with a Masters in Social Work in 1987.

Joann has post graduate training from the Ackerman Family Institute and in Gestalt Theory, psychodynamic therapies and mindfulness stress reduction and EMDR.

Joann is known for her warm, relaxed and supportive approach to therapy. Her approach involves genuine caring, sympathy, acceptance and non-judgement. Joann works with clients from a strength-based positive and affirming perspective. She treats a wide range of issues including substance abuse/addiction, behavioral addictions such as shopping, exercising and sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, other mental disorders, unresolved emotional issues, trauma and post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship/family concerns which include victims of sexual abuse/incest, eating disorders, codependency, children of addiction, separation and divorce, sexual addiction and their partners, betrayal trauma and chronic pain.

Joann has dedicated her life to helping others improve their lives and she considers it to be a privilege to be invited into her client’s inner lives and to accompany them on their journey through healing, change and self-empowerment.

Rikki Lyn Hauss, MSW, LSW

Rikki Lyn is a licensed social worker in New Jersey. She received her bachelors in psychology from Rutgers University and her Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University.

Rikki Lyn enjoys using an eclectic approach with her clients. She makes a concerted effort to match the needs and personalities of her clients with the best-fit methodologies. Rikki Lyn's background is in geriatrics, chronic illness, and children's therapies. Ms. Hauss welcomes all prospective clients to work collaboratively with her through  CBT, empowerment, and creative therapies.  She chooses therapies that will best suit each individual client based on their needs and goals. 

Rikki Lyn's main experience lies with children, adolescents, chronic illness and geriatrics; however she has a wide range of experience in other areas.
 

Karen Fabian, LCSW obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in 2004. 
Karen’s areas of specialization include mood disorders, anxiety and neurological, developmental and personality disorders. In addition, she has worked with many clients who are struggling after experiencing significant life changes or trauma stemming from various forms of loss or abuse. 

Karen works with individuals, couples and families. Her approach is eclectic, with a strong emphasis on cognitive behavioral therapy while integrating basic psychoanalysis and acceptance and commitment therapies. 
In 2018, Karen obtained certification in EMDR.

Nancy Baldwin, LSW 

Nancy Baldwin, LSW obtained her Masters Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. Nancy’s education and training included numerous cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) courses offered through the Beck Institute, certification in Trauma-Focused-CBT and a certification in Prolonged Exposure therapy.

Nancy specializes in working with clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence related issues, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) work and other life stressors.

 Nancy’s experience lies in working with adults, children and adolescents. Nancy believes in a collaborative approach and utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques to support clients in

identifying and using their strengths to achieve their goals for healing and improved well-being.

Chris Foster, LSW

Chris is a Licensed Social Worker. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University with a certificate in Ageing and Health. She has provided supportive counseling for the elderly and their caregivers. Chris' experience also lies with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, conflict, grief, and loss. She has worked with clients who have severe and persistent mental illness, provided counseling and support for their families as well

Chris practice is based on the principle that effective counseling leads to freedom, connection, and a more fulfilling life. She has led numerous workshops on spirituality and on healthy living, as well as one-on-one counseling in spiritual wellness, and has taught classes on personal well-being.

Her approach is with a caring, sensitive, and compassionate understanding of individuals needs and challenges. Her conversational style is a nonjudgmental method, making her sessions with clients a safe and hopeful experience. She believes that mental and emotional healing are not only possible, but are the key to rediscovering our true selves.

"Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we learn."

-Marianne Williamson

Julia Sameth, M.Ed, MSW, LSW
Julia is a NJ Licensed Social Worker who graduated from Rutgers University as a Fellow in Aging and has completed Institute-Level training in Bowen Family Systems. In addition to working with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression and PTSD, she specializes in working with individuals and their families as they navigate issues related to serious and terminal illness. She has supported those experiencing loss and grief and has facilitated widows bereavement groups.

Julia brings an eclectic and collaborative approach to her practice that focuses on clients' inherent strengths and employs person-centered therapy using modalities of mindfulness, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing), as well as psychoanalytic techniques to create a safe therapeutic space that promotes holistic growth.

Brittany Dhiman, LSW

Brittany is a Licensed Social Worker. She graduated with her Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University with a clinical concentration in working with children and families. She received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Rutgers University. Brittany has advanced training in Psycho-dynamic Psychotherapy from the Postgraduate Center for Mental Health in New York City. Brittany's areas of specialty include trauma, children and families, and chronic/terminal illness.

She is deeply committed to helping individuals and families heal and learn to manage issues related to depression, anxiety, grief/loss and substance abuse. 

Brittany's approach is supportive, relational and eclectic. She draws from modalities such as Gestalt Therapy, Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Play Therapy.  

Rena Gordonson, LSW

Rena graduated with a BA in Psychology from Marymount Manhattan College and with a Master's Degree in Social Welfare from New York University.

Rena worked many years with children, families, adults, and couples. In addition she has worked in hospice and hospital settings. She has taught classes on death and dying, counseled many people in training to become medical doctors, social workers, and nurses and offered gentle and creative problem solving for some of life's more difficult issues.

Rena is keenly attuned to the unique obstacles that adult survivors of childhood trauma face on daily basis. She spent many years on her own path of healing and knows that the problems that may arise from being a survivor of traumatic event can be physical, mental and emotional. She is dedicated to helping survivors love themselves and their lives. She is committed to helping people move from surviving to thriving without pressure, expectation, and strife. Rena uses a variety of therapeutic approaches to assist clients on their journey toward personal growth.

Anna Wilverding, LSW

Anna is a Licensed Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. She earned her Bachelor’s of Social Work from Centenary University and her Master’s of Social Work from Fordham University. Anna has worked with families in low income situations, homeless, the elderly community, parents, children and adolescents.

Anna is a certified Behavioral Assistant and Parenting Coach. She is trained in the Nurtured Heart Approach, adolescents with substance use dependency, multicultural therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Anna has given seminars on the Enough Abuse program, preventing sexual abuse. She also volunteers at various assisted living facilities.

Desirae Lizzi, MSW, LSW

Desirae is a a Licensed Social Worker. She graduated with her Master Degree in Social Work from Simmons College of Social Work.

Desirae’s areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD and drug and alcohol addictions.

Desirae works with each client on an individual basis, taking into consideration their individual backround and environment.

Various therapeutic approaches utilized include supportive psychotherapy, humanistic theory, CBT and psycho-education to help clients grow emotionally and spiritually, and to meet their personal goals.

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