Amber Kottner – LPC
My name is Amber Kottner. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and earned my Master of Arts degree in counseling from Waynesburg University. I have over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I enjoy working with families, children, and adults. I strive to make the therapeutic process as easy as possible by creating an open and supportive environment.
I enjoy helping others and strive to assist you in your journey. I believe that each individual is authentic and deserves an approach that best fits them. Therefore, I enjoy working from eclectic approaches, including an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral techniques, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused goals.
Therapy is a special partnership. I’m here to help make an improvement in your life. You decide what you want to work on, and together, we will work to get you there in the best and most fitting way possible.
Ashley Spahn, MSW, LCSW
Ashlie Mohney LPC
It’s a new year and with that comes taking inventory of ourselves and setting goals to do better and grow.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Behavior Specialist, and Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Duquesne University, majoring in Education (K-12). My Master’s degree in Professional Counseling was also from Duquesne University.
I have 12 years of experience providing help and assistance to the elderly, adults, adolescents, children, and families who are struggling with a wide array of issues that include:
- Adjustment Disorders
- Anger Management
- Autism
- Body Image Issues
- Depression & Anxiety
- Dual Diagnosis
- Family Structures
- Grief and Loss
- Human Sexuality Issues
- IDD
- Life Transition Issues
- Marital Issues
- Mood Disorders
- Parenting Support
- Relationship Issues
- Self-Esteem/Self-Confidence Issues
- Sexual Offending
- Stress Management
- Work and Career issues
I am an interactive, person-centered, solution-focused therapist that utilizes a personalized approach tailored to meet the needs of each client. Compassion and understanding are important to work with each individual to build on strengths and encourage personal growth.
I recognize time is precious and I want your time in the session to be valuable and serve you. I hope that my knowledge and experience help you achieve your goals, that is my commitment to you.
Ashley is the Director of Student Services and a Clinical supervisor in our practice.
Aubrey Stull, LPC, MA, NCC
Welcome to the first step on your journey, searching for a therapist you connect with. This relationship is a key element to your counseling process. Take the time to find a therapist who meets your needs.
Empathy & Compassion
As a counselor deeply committed to fostering holistic well-being, I prioritize empathy and compassion as foundational values in my practice. Drawing from nearly a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I have witnessed the impact of compassionate listening and empathetic understanding on the therapeutic journey. My approach to therapy is rooted in trauma-focused and client-centered principles, tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating life transitions, I am here to walk alongside you with kindness and support.
Empowerment
Self-care and empowerment are central to my practice philosophy. I believe that prioritizing self-care is not only essential for maintaining mental and emotional balance but is also a transformative act of self-love. Through our work together, I will empower you to embrace self-care practices that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. Every individual possesses unique strengths and inner resources that can be harnessed to overcome life’s challenges. Together, we will explore these strengths and cultivate a sense of empowerment that enables you to navigate life’s ups and downs with confidence and resilience.
Collaboration & Comfortability
In our sessions, you can expect a collaborative and non-judgmental approach, where your voice is heard and valued. By fostering a collaborative relationship built on trust and mutual respect, I strive to create an environment where you feel empowered to actively participate in your own healing journey. Through open communication and a comfortable atmosphere, I aim to support you in exploring your strengths, overcoming challenges, and achieving your goals.
I am honored to walk alongside you on your journey towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and fulfillment. Take the first step towards reclaiming your power and living your best life by scheduling an intake. Together, we will embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Autumn Staszak, LPC
Are you struggling with racing thoughts that keep you up at night or cause significant muscle tension? How about the inability to get out of bed or crying spells that affect your daily functioning? Do you struggle with communicating your needs and wants with your partner? Let’s work together to help you live a healthy, more productive life worth living.
I obtained my Master of Arts in Education at the University of Akron and have worked in the community setting for over 20 years. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and couples on many issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, work-related stress, and many life obstacles that can block our path at times.
My approach to therapy is to provide you a comfortable non-judgmental environment to explore overwhelming thoughts or feelings that make you feel “stuck.”
I enjoy building a collaborative relationship with my clients to help foster an environment of growth. I welcome you to reach out so we can navigate this process together.
Take the first step to help.
Colleen Druga, MA, LPC
These quotes resonate with me as I see my role as cultivating and supporting the change others seek, whether they know it at the time or not.
“People underestimate their capacity to change. There is NEVER a right time to do a difficult thing.” -John Porter.
“Helping one person might not change the world BUT it could change the world for that one person.” -Unknown.
I traveled to Argosy University/Phoenix, AZ for my Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and have moved back to my home state. I have 18 years of Master’s Level Clinical Experience, and 3 years prior with my Bachelor’s degree. I started out working with Adolescents in a Residential Treatment Setting providing group, individual, and family therapy counseling, to Family Based Treatment services, on up to Addictions Medicine and Co-occurring disordered adult clients. Over the course of these 18 years I have discovered my interests and strengths clinically have been in assisting and supporting Adults struggling with:
- PTSD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bi-Polar Disorder
- Psychoses
- Medication Addiction Treatment (i.e. Suboxone, Vivitrol)
- Addictions
My modalities and interventions that I find passion sharing and modeling for others are the use of Mindfulness and Meditation practices alongside Cognitive Behavioral Treatment (CBT) and Trauma Informed CBT (which is a newer version now being utilized).
“What we don’t need in the midst of struggling is to be shamed for being human.” _Brene Brown.
I’m here to listen, support, challenge, and meet you where you are at with hope, and optimism for a brighter day (aka being more mindful), and future for you.
My only expectation is that you find the change within yourself you are seeking and are ready for me to help guide you through it. Shall we begin?
Cristina Panaccione, LPC – Owner
Sometimes life can be scary and overwhelming. Sometimes it can be beautiful and wondrous! And sometimes we just need a little help sorting things out! I am here for you wherever you are in your journey. Let’s figure this out and get you living the life you deserve to live!
My name is Cristina and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in mental health services across the lifespan with expertise in the treatment of depression and anxiety. I utilize an eclectic and down-to-earth treatment style to create a warm, safe environment to promote healing and growth. I am going to work with you to learn about your specific concerns and we will work as a team to reach your individual goals.
I have a strong background in marital counseling and anxiety management. My specialties also include school therapy, crisis intervention, Family Systems Theory, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I have extensive experience in service coordination and outpatient therapy.
All of the therapists who are in our practice at Cristina Panaccione and Associates Counseling are hand picked by me for their warmth, values, ethical treatment of patients, and strong skill sets. Call today to schedule an appointment to strengthen your life and/or your family life through counseling and education. Let us help you handle life’s challenges.
See a video of my approach at Cristina Panaccione and Associates Counseling with premarital counseling. And see how I am handling the COVID-19 pandemic.
Crystal Norcott – LPC
“When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” – Fred Rogers.
Making the choice to engage in counseling can be a tough decision, but a very rewarding one! Each person is unique and feels experiences differently. I believe through developing a positive therapeutic relationship, we can work together to achieve your personal goals and begin on a path to a more positive state of mind.
My name is Crystal Norcott and I received my Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. I have been in the counseling profession for 10 years and have had a variety of clinical experiences. My experiences include working with children and adolescents in a variety of settings including residential, school, community, and in the home. I also have worked with adults who may be experiencing a life event that they are struggling with, including but not limited to – addiction, depression, and anxiety.
My counseling technique varies depending on the need and personality of the person, as there is no one technique that works for everyone. Don’t ever feel like you have to deal with life’s difficulties on your own. I will be practicing in our Upper St. Clair Location.
Dana Werner, LMSW
Life can be quite a rollercoaster ride…there are times when we feel like we’re on top of the world, and other times when we fall into fear and uncertainty. Regardless of where you are, I want you to know you are not alone.
Hi! My name is Dana Werner, and I am a licensed therapist with ten years of experience helping people through various life transitions and phases. My approach is holistic, down-to-earth, and focused on building a solid rapport in a safe and judgment-free environment.
While I utilize evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, and DBT, my approach is tailored to each client by getting to know their unique story and needs. I aim to create a comfortable space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes. In addition, I utilize mindfulness and solution-focused techniques to help clients manage stress, anxiety, and negative thought patterns. Finally, a touch of humor and grace can go a long way in therapy, so I also strive to maintain that balance!
Throughout my career, I have worked with clients in educational environments, inpatient treatment centers, and courtrooms, providing crisis counseling. I have experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, personality and mood disorders, domestic violence, trauma, and various life tribulations.
David Como – MS, NCC
As a seasoned Mental Health Professional with over 30 years of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand how life’s challenges can lead to feelings of overwhelm, exhaustion, or hopelessness. My empathetic approach and eclectic therapeutic style empower individuals to navigate these difficulties and find lasting solutions. With a focus on person-centered therapy and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I offer a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their emotions, gain insights, and achieve their goals.
I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I earned my Bachelor of Communication and Master of Psychology in Education from the University of Pittsburgh. Additionally, I am a Doctoral Candidate at Waynesburg University in Counseling Education and Supervision.
I specialize in providing compassionate and practical support for various issues. My eclectic approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. I am passionate about empowering individuals to reach their full potential and live fulfilling lives through creative modalities. Let’s work together to unlock your potential and create a healthier, happier you.
Dave Lori – LPC
I have had the honor and privilege of working in the mental health field for the past 20 years. My experience ranges from family-systems work to individualized focus. My clinical orientation ranges from client-centered, solution-focused, humanistic and Existential approaches.
I believe in providing a strength-based, supportive, authentic and non-judgmental approach to the therapeutic process. We all face various challenges and have the ability to reach our personal goals given the independent choices we make each day.
David McAnellan
A seasoned clinician with over 30 years of administrative and clinical experience working with individuals and families. Administrative experience has included overseeing and developing programs, service delivery, supervision, consultation with clinicians, and conducting best practice evaluations/assessments.
The clinical focus is underscored with an orientation toward strength-based principles and evidence-based therapies, including cognitive behavioral and solution-focused therapy. The approach also has an orientation toward holistic mind-body-heart connection, the emerging neuroscience in this area, the law of attraction/manifestation, and mindfulness/meditative practice. Results-oriented approach to address negative/problem state and enhancing well-being, abundance, health, ease, and progressive life satisfaction.
Gretchen Echegoyen, MSW, LCSW
My name is Gretchen Echegoyen and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I completed my Bachelor’s in Social Work at Eastern University in St. Davids, PA, and my Master’s in Social Work at Rutgers University in Camden, NJ. Since receiving my master’s, I have worked as a behavioral health consultant in a primary care setting where I have worked with individuals across the lifespan, with a focus on trauma-informed care and addictions. I am particularly passionate to serve clients facing moments of transition, grief/loss, and wanting to seek sobriety.
Many of my clients have emotional pain, symptoms of anxiety and depression, lack of boundaries in relationships, feel disconnected, or are stressed. My therapy approach is client-centered and utilizes a strengths-based approach. Therapy sessions with me integrate the client’s higher power, insight-oriented, and skills-based approaches. Some Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based approach that focuses on helping clients understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other so that they can begin to make changes in their lives is also used in sessions. I gently challenge my clients to explore the root cause of their symptoms, gaining new awareness of their emotional and relationship patterns. At the same time, I aim to focus on clients to understand their physical response to external stressors and begin to problem-solve ways to introduce mindfulness to bring forth self-awareness, to choose to respond rather than react to situations.
In the session, I also focus on creativity, curiosity, and compassion to reframe past experiences as a way to rebuild self-confidence and self-esteem to reach personal goals. A priority in session is to ensure that clients feel safe, seen, heard, and actively engaged in their treatment process. This approach supports clients to feel comfortable being themselves and exploring thoughts non-judgmentally. Many clients have found peace, gained a new perspective in life, and learned to rebuild trust in themselves again.
Jessica Henry, Masters Art Therapy
“The willingness to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.” — Brené Brown
I have been working in the mental health field since 2006, working with a wide range of clients and mental health disorders. I have extensive experience working with older teens and young adults as they navigate life transitions, shifts, and bumps. In addition to this, I am comfortable working with clients across the lifespan who are faced with a multitude of difficulties. I am honored to help folks navigate difficult times and find their own metric for happiness.
I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Studio Art and a Master’s Degree in Art Therapy with a specialization in counseling, lending to a focus on marriage and family therapy. I’ve worked in group homes for adults with serious and persistent mental illness and have worked in community-based mental health for 10 years. I have a trauma certificate and have been involved in the shift to support mental health providers in improving abilities and comfort levels in working with individuals who have co-occurring disorders. I work from a range of therapeutic modalities and always challenge myself to ensure I am meeting a client where they are in the process.
Acknowledging change, and the bravery to show up to counseling is a success in itself. I’m a firm believer in teamwork, and I always appreciate the collaboration that develops in a therapist/client team dynamic.
Jordan Bilich
With extensive experience working with adults in a medical setting, I bring a deep understanding of the human experience to our counseling sessions. My background includes supporting individuals during life’s most challenging and transformative moments, from crisis intervention to recovery, navigating grief, and managing everyday struggles. I am passionate about helping my clients identify their goals and work towards achieving them in a compassionate, supportive environment. Whether you’re facing a major life transition or seeking to enhance your overall well-being, I am here to guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth.
Kristen Biancaniello – LPC
My name is Kristen Biancaniello, MSEd, NCC, CMHP. I received my Masters from Duquense University in 2010 in relationship counseling, with a focus on marriage and family therapy. That same year I became a Nationally Certified Counselor. I want to congratulate you on your openness toward relationship counseling. And for taking this first step in making a change in your life.
My experience in mental health centers around family-based therapy. I took a specific focus concentration on Family Systems Theory and Structural Family Therapy. These techniques help individuals and families struggling with issues of, but not limited to:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Separation and Divorce
- Trauma
- Family Member Relationships
- Stressors of Daily Family Life
During this time, I became a Certified Mental Health Professional in the field of Structural Family Therapy. I have also attended year-long pieces of training in both Trauma Informed Care and AF-CBT. This uses CBT techniques with multiple individuals within a family to help aid changes within the family system. I also have experience working with adolescents and families in a school setting, which has also helped me learn to navigate the world of service coordination between treatment providers in Allegheny County. Additionally, I have worked extensively with adolescents in the LGBTQ community as they struggle to understand who they are in today’s complex world.
Lauren Stark – LSW
Life brings challenges often. It is my goal to assist in bringing higher levels of happiness and lower levels of stress and overwhelm. I would love to work with you to create the life you want.
My background includes receiving an MSW at Youngstown State University in 2007 (trained in a strengths-based approach) which was followed by 8 years of clinical work in community mental health. I re-entered this field a few years ago after some time off as a stay-at-home parent. I have worked with families, individuals, children, and adults. Clinically, I have experience in assisting with anxiety, depression, interpersonal communication skills, life transition, adjustment issues, self-esteem and self-worth. I meet the client where they are and take the journey of self-discovery with them.
Lindsay Mazza MS Counseling
My name is Lindsay and I am available for in-person and virtual appointments with adults ages 18 and over. Before working in therapy, I earned my bachelor’s degree from Ohio University and worked in multiple cities in sales, education, and training. I received my Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Carlow University. I have clinical experience in a long-term residential facility, an intensive outpatient program, and a crisis center.
With extensive experience in medical settings, I bring a deep understanding of the human experience to our counseling sessions. I have supported individuals through crises, pivotal life moments, grief, and recovery, as well as those coping with everyday struggles.
My passion lies in helping clients identify and achieve their goals in a compassionate, supportive environment. Whether navigating a significant transition or seeking to enhance your well-being, I’m here to guide you on your journey to healing and growth.
McKenzie Monaghan, LPC
Melissa Helfer, LPC
I know you have probably looked at the techniques being used today by therapists. I have worked extensively with patients suffering from addiction, depression, and anxiety. I know that there is no one size fits all path to wellness. I also know that sometimes that path can be winding – going uphill, downhill, sometimes rocky, sometimes narrow. I am an expert at guiding you on your path to recovery.
Building rapport – starting with where you are and working with you. I use humor. I help you understand the reason behind your actions. I want to understand how and what you are feeling and why, so I can help you understand it and make meaningful change by applying the proper psychotherapy techniques needed for you to overcome your negative behavior patterns.
Michael Breitenbach, LPC
Michael Breitenbach is a highly experienced clinician influenced by Erik Erikson’s social development theory. Specifically, Michael is focused on the 7th stage of social development, Generativity vs. Stagnation.
Michael believes that Generativity is all about giving back to society. This includes raising children, being productive at work, and participating in community activities and organizations. By doing these things, individuals develop a sense of being part of something bigger than themselves.
As a telehealth therapist, Michael has found that many people appreciate telehealth’s freedom. It allows them to seek therapy from their homes or offices without worrying about hiring a babysitter or having their partner leave work early. Michael has also found that telehealth has empowered males to seek therapy at a higher rate, reducing the stigma around mental health issues.
Michael is highly experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and the Gottman approach for couples’ communication issues. He believes that therapy should be tailored to the individual and uses a range of approaches to help his clients achieve their goals.
One of Michael’s passions is working with young adults to navigate the challenges of peer pressure and social media. As a father of four children ranging from newborn to college-aged, he keenly understands the unique challenges facing younger generations.
In addition to offering therapy, Michael provides resources and helps his clients develop a plan for a healthier life. He believes that everyone has the potential to reach their full potential and is committed to helping his clients achieve their goals.
Nicholas White, MSCP
My journey in mental healthcare continues to evolve with every client and colleague I interact with. Regardless of my profession, I believe listening, learning, and growing daily is my job.
Over the last 6 years, I’ve gained experience working with a wide range of people within many different environments. Currently, I am the director and lead clinician of a residential treatment facility for adults diagnosed with Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, multiple personality disorder, addictions, depression, etc. I began my career within the Allegheny County court system, providing psychological assessments to individuals awaiting trial. I’ve assisted in public and private schools, assisting kiddos with in-class behaviors related to autism, ADHD, anxiety, etc. I’ve even provided behavioral support for children and families in the comfort of their homes.
As a therapist, it is my job to understand your lived experiences and help you where I can. If you feel like I can be helpful to you or someone you know, I look forward to working with you.
Nicole Jacobs
Sometimes, life can be stressful and feel overwhelming. It sometimes doesn’t go as we had planned. Sometimes we need guidance. My desire is to have my clients learn to handle life’s “curve balls” and motivate them to develop positive coping skills in order to decrease the unraveling that can occur. My counseling style is one of compassion, empathy, empowerment, and reframing. I offer services for those experiencing change and loss, depression, mood regulation, anxiety, and stress as well as substance use and abuse. Using a variety of approaches (i.e., Solution Focused Brief Counseling, Reality Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), we will collaborate to develop appropriate solutions to your current struggles, allowing you to take back control of your life.
Sarah Fatheddin, Masters, Clinical Health Counseling
Shannon Golden – LPC
I strive to plant a seed of hope by telling you that you have more control over your thinking, emotions and how you react to situations in life than you may think!
If we can be absolutely honest, different chapters and seasons in life can be truly difficult and frustrating to navigate. Just know, you are not alone in feeling this.
I believe in a holistic approach to healing, focusing on the connection of mind, body, and spirit. In taking care of our mental and emotional health, our physical and spiritual health are all just as crucial to the healing process. When one of these areas is out of balance others will be impacted negatively.
To achieve freedom from our struggles, I believe we must work towards acceptance, while also making a healthy change in our lives to produce growth and enable us to be healthier versions of ourselves.
My name is Shannon Golden and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor who received her Masters’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Waynesburg University. My clinical experience includes working in various outpatient centers providing individual, family, and group therapy, working primarily with older adolescents, young adults, and adults. I work from an Integrative approach implementing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, and Existential Therapy, and utilize IFS parts of work. I have extensive experience in Co-occurring issues and Substance Abuse counseling while also having worked across the spectrum of most mental health issues.
Whether it is anxiety and worry, any adjustments, change or loss, sadness or depression, struggles with mood dysregulation, or addictions of any kind that have hijacked your thoughts and behaviors, there is a safe space for you to talk and process through it and learn healthy ways to manage these concerns.
It takes great courage and strength to reach out for help and good for you for seeking out therapy! My hope is to help you feel comfortable while being seen and heard and to be a fellow traveler to guide you through whatever you are experiencing.
Shannon Wyzkoski– LPC
My name is Shannon Wyzkoski and I am a licensed professional counselor who has had the privilege of working in Pittsburgh for the past 13 years. I obtained my master’s in counseling psychology from Chatham University in 2008 and immediately started my clinical experience in a variety of settings. I obtained my license in 2011 and continued to expand my ability to offer therapy in varying levels of care. I have worked in clinical settings such as acute partial, school-based partial, and outpatient. I have practiced and provided individual, family, and group, and more recently expanded to couple’s therapy. In those services, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families.
My approach to therapy is to create an open, honest, and relaxed environment while maintaining a straightforward delivery. I would describe my use of theory as eclectic encompassing skill sets from many different models such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and client-centered. I am currently working on obtaining my grief certification to offer a more specialized approach to such a relevant issue of concern.
Due to my varying levels of care, I am comfortable working with an array of mental health concerns and diagnoses. I have strength in working with symptoms of anxiety, depression, family issues, grief, LGBTQIA, and self-esteem.
I am a firm believer in the importance of the right fit between therapist and client. I put a lot of work into building rapport and understand that ultimately you must feel comfortable in the relationship for it to be successful. I look forward to the opportunity to help you in meeting your treatment goals.
Shelby O’Brien, LPC
Shelby O’Brien is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health from Waynesburg University. Since 2016, she has worked in the mental health field in various capacities and as an outpatient therapist in an agency setting in 2019. Her experience includes working with clients ranging from 4 to 50 years old in individual, family, and group settings and with various mental health disorders. Shelby has helped numerous clients manage anxiety, depression, anger, and process trauma. She has also worked with clients diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder.
Shelby’s therapeutic approach is easygoing, allowing clients to lead their therapy. She often says, “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start from where you are and change the ending.” She believes that combining the client’s knowledge of themselves with the therapist’s expertise in mental health can help the client achieve their goals. Shelby employs a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as client-centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Strength-based Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
In addition to her passion for traditional therapy, Shelby has a deep love for animals and believes they can be excellent healers. She aspires to one day incorporate a therapy dog into her clinical practice. Shelby also enjoys arts and crafts and often incorporates these creative outlets into therapy, exploring alternative forms of healing and self-expression with her clients.
Tess Inman M.S.Ed, LPC, NCC
Counseling areas of focus for Cristina Panaccione and Associates Counseling
While we offer general services for most conditions are major areas of focus include the following specializations
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When was the last time someone listened to you? Really listened and provided active feedback.
To get started let our intake coordinator connect you with our therapist who is your best fit for your needs