About us
Who we are
At Central — a private, nonprofit, community behavioral health organization — we are dedicated to our mission of helping people improve their emotional and behavioral health, develop resiliency, and achieve personal fulfillment.
Our essential work is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and carried out by more than 170 caring therapists, Certified Peer Specialists, case managers, psychiatrists, program specialists, intake coordinators and administrative staff.
When developing or enhancing our programs and services, we stay laser-focused on the people we serve in keeping with our vision: to set the standard for excellence in behavioral health service delivery.
How we help
We serve more than 5,000 clients annually through a wide variety of specialized behavioral health programs and services for adults, children, adolescents and families and seniors.
Through compassionate, evidenced-based treatments, we help people work through life transitions, crises, behavioral health challenges and co-occurring symptoms associated with mental health disorders — bringing hope, empowerment and confidence as they make progress in their journey.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Pictured from Left to right
Front Row: Jodie Davis (Director of Children’s Services), Robert Love (CFO), Cathy Hillman (Director of Abington), Brad Benson (IT Director), Angela Gilbert (Director of Quality & Compliance)
Second Row: Valarie O’Connor (CEO), Tammy Poole (Director of Human Resources), Toni Ryan (Director of Specialized Adult Services), Eileen Curley (Director of Outpatient), Katie Walsh (COO), Ebonie McClain (Director of Case Management)
Meet Our Board of Directors
Joe Downey
President
Nick Scull
Vice President
Richard Cirko
Secretary
Alfred La Manna
Treasurer
Deanne Zotter
Board Member
Margaret Hunsicker
Board Member
Steve Sowell
Board Member
Valarie O'Connor
Board Member
Meet Our Outpatient Clinicians
Amy, MS
Amy, a dedicated therapist, holds a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and boasts three years of invaluable experience in the field. Passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges, Amy specializes in serving Adults, Seniors (65+), and those facing Co-occurring concerns. Her therapeutic expertise extends to both Individual and Group Therapy settings, where she fosters a supportive environment for healing and growth. Currently, Amy is diligently working towards obtaining the necessary hours for her LPC licensure, demonstrating her commitment to professional development. ...
Joseph, MA, LPC, CAADC, DBTC
Joseph, a seasoned therapist with a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, brings over 16 years of dedicated experience to the field. Specializing in serving adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), and those with co-occurring concerns, Joseph offers therapy in both individual and group settings. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania, he holds additional certifications as a Certified Addictions Counselor (CAADC) and a certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (DBT-C). Joseph's comprehensive training includes proficiency in eye movement desensitization and reprocessin...
Sonni Rose, MA
Sonni holds a Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling, complemented by a Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Human Service. With a year of dedicated experience in the field, Sonni offers therapeutic services to adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), and children within individual therapy settings. Notably, Sonni has enriched their expertise by completing specialized training in Trauma-Informed Care for Opioid Treatment and the application of Motivational Interviewing in Clinical Practice. Sonni's therapeutic approach encompasses a diverse range of modalities, including Cogn...
Gary, MS
Gary is a seasoned therapist with a Master Degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology, boasting seven years of invaluable experience in the field. He dedicates his practice to serving adults, seniors aged 65 and above, and individuals grappling with co-occurring concerns. Gary offers his expertise in both individual and group therapy settings, tailoring his approach to suit the needs of each client. With a psychodynamic-focused methodology, he adeptly navigates through various psychological landscapes, always keeping trauma-informed care at the forefront of his practice. Gary also employs so...
Sarah, MA
Sarah K., holding a Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling, brings a compassionate and holistic approach to her therapeutic practice, backed by several years of hands-on experience in the field. Sarah's clientele includes adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), seniors (65+), and those struggling with co-occurring concerns, whether in individual or group therapy settings. With a focus on trauma-informed care, Sarah specializes in guiding clients through life's challenging transitions, grief and loss, employing evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CB...
Christina, MA
Christina, is a dedicated therapist with a Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling and a year of hands-on experience in the field. Specializing in serving adults and transitional age individuals (ranging from 16 to 26 years old), Christina's expertise lies in individual therapy settings. Her approach is deeply rooted in trauma-informed care, ensuring a safe and empathetic environment for her clients. With a passion for working with individuals in transitional phases of their lives, Christina offers a compassionate ear and tailored interventions to support older adolescents and young...
Lila, MS
Lila holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and boasts six years of invaluable experience in the field. Specializing in catering to the needs of adults, transitional age individuals (ranging from 16 to 26 years old), and seniors aged 65 and above, Lila navigates both individual and group therapy settings. Her professional journey was honed at PCOM, a Philadelphia institution renowned for its’ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based clinical mental health program. During her tenure at PCOM, Lila received the essential training to provide treatment protocols meticulously...
Sara, MA, LPC
Sara B. is a seasoned therapist with a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology and over 18 years of dedicated experience in the field. Operating within the state of Pennsylvania, she is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) offering her expertise to individuals across a broad spectrum, including Adults, Transitional Age (16-26), and Seniors (65+). Sara's therapeutic repertoire encompasses both individual and group therapy settings, where she integrates an array of evidence-based approaches tailored to suit her clients' needs. With specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) an...
Christine, LPC
Christine R. is a dedicated therapist holding a Masters of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling, bringing four years of valuable experience to her practice. She specializes in serving a diverse range of clients, including adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), children, seniors (65+), and those with co-occurring concerns, offering individual therapy sessions. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC), Christine's approach is multifaceted, drawing from her expertise in various therapeutic modalities such as person-centered, trauma-informed, i...
Ashley, MA
Ashley is a dedicated therapist with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, equipped with two years of invaluable experience in the field. She specializes in providing individual therapy sessions to a diverse range of clients, including adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), and children. Ashley's therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), allowing her to address a variety of emotional and behavioral challenges. Through her compassionate and client-centered practice, Ashley strives to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment w...
Emily, MA
Emily holds a Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling and brings three years of valuable experience to her practice. With a compassionate approach, Emily serves a diverse clientele, including adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), children (14+), seniors (65+), and those with co-occurring concerns. Specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy settings, she employs a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Informed CBT, multicultural counseling, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and hu...
Patricia, MA, LPC
Patricia, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania, holds a master's degree in professional clinical counseling and has over seven years of invaluable experience in the field. Her practice extends to a diverse range of clients, including adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), children, seniors (65+), Spanish-speaking individuals, and those with co-occurring concerns. Patricia's experience spans across various therapeutic settings, encompassing individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Patricia has a proven track record of effectively supporting survivors of interpe...
Vanessa, MSW, LSW
Vanessa is a dedicated therapist with a Master of Social Work degree and over 8 years of valuable experience in the field. Specializing in serving adults, transitional age individuals (aged 16-26), children, and Spanish-speaking clients, Vanessa offers compassionate support in individual and family therapy settings. As a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) fluent in Spanish, she provides a culturally sensitive approach to her practice, ensuring effective communication and understanding with her clients. Vanessa incorporates diverse therapeutic techniques into her sessions, including art therapy and E...
Summer, MA, RDMT
Summer is a dedicated therapist with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Master of Arts in Dance/Movement Therapy. With four years of experience in the field, Summer serves a diverse clientele, including adults, children, and seniors (65+), offering individual and couples therapy. Summer addresses issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, and intergenerational traumas. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy, The Gottman Method, and trauma-informed body-based practices, Summer is committed to holistic healing approaches. Sh...
Edward, MS
Edward is a compassionate therapist with a Master of Science in Counseling and four years of valuable experience in the field. He specializes in providing individual therapy for adults, transitional age individuals (aged 16-26), and those with co-occurring concerns. Edward approaches his practice with empathy and a deep commitment to helping his clients navigate life's challenges. He creates a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Edward is currently on the path to licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC), demonstrating his dedi...
Laurie, LSW
Laurie, a seasoned therapist with a Master of Social Work, brings over 25 years of dedicated experience to her practice. Specializing in serving adults and seniors aged 65 and above, Laurie offers a compassionate and individualized approach to therapy. As a Certified Trauma Professional, she is deeply committed to helping clients navigate through trauma and loss, providing a safe space for healing and growth. Laurie's extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) equips her with versatile tools to address a wide range of emotional and psycholog...
Logan, MS
Logan, holding a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Addictions and Corrections, brings a wealth of experience to the therapeutic landscape with three years in the field. Specializing in serving adults and seniors aged 65 and above, Logan is adept in both individual and group therapy settings. Logan's toolbox includes extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Addictions Counseling, and Motivational Interviewing. Their areas of expertise span substance use and addictions counseling, as well as counseling for t...
Lucie, LPC, CAADC
Lucie, a dedicated therapist with a Master of Science degree, brings over 24 years of invaluable experience to the field. Specializing in serving a diverse range of individuals, Lucie provides compassionate care to adults, transitional age individuals (aged 16-26), seniors (aged 65+), and those facing co-occurring concerns. With a comprehensive approach to therapy, Lucie is skilled in individual, couples, family, and group therapy settings, offering a tailored approach to suit the unique needs of each client. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Co...
James, MA
James holds a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and brings three years of invaluable experience to his practice. Specializing in individual therapy, James warmly serves adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), and children, fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all. As a National Certified Counselor (NCC), he has honed his expertise in Trauma-Informed Care, Domestic Violence, LGBTQIA+ Issues, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). James embraces diversity and approaches each client with genuine care, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, regardless of age or...
Vivian, LCSW, CCDP
Vivian, a seasoned therapist with a Master of Social Service degree, brings over 25 years of invaluable experience to her practice. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, she specializes in providing compassionate care to adults in individual therapy settings. Throughout her extensive tenure at Central Behavioral Health, Vivian has developed a profound understanding of various mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, and substance use disorders. Her client-centered approach emphasizes meeting individuals where t...
Larry, MT-BC
Larry is a seasoned therapist with a unique background in music therapy, holding a bachelor's degree in music and Board Certification in Music Therapy, alongside extensive experience in mental health. With an illustrious 39-year career, Larry specializes in serving adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), seniors (65+), and those with co-occurring concerns. Whether in individual or group settings, Larry's expertise spans a wide range of therapeutic modalities, including depression and anxiety management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-inform...
Paige, MA
Paige is a dedicated therapist with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and over two years of valuable experience in the field. She offers her services to a diverse range of clients, including adults, transitional-age individuals (16-26), children, and seniors (65+), in various settings such as individual therapy, couples therapy, or family therapy. Currently working towards licensure in Pennsylvania, Paige strives to foster a supportive and compassionate environment where clients of all ages can embark on a journey of growth and healing. Her therapeutic approach is trauma-in...
Christine, MSW, LCSW
Christine J., a compassionate and experienced therapist, holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Social Work, with 19 years of dedicated service in the field. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Christine's expertise spans across various age groups and concerns, including Adults, Transitional Age (16-26), Children, Seniors (65+), and individuals with Co-occurring issues. Specializing in both individual and family therapy settings, Christine is adept in several evidence-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Trauma Focused C...
Elizabeth, MA, LPC
Elizabeth holds a Master of Art in Mental Health Counseling and boasts 5 years of rich experience within the field. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania, she specializes in serving diverse populations including adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), seniors (65+), and those grappling with co-occurring concerns. Whether in individual therapy settings or group therapy environments, Elizabeth offers a dynamic approach to therapy, drawing from her training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed therapy, and Mindfulness-centered...
Andrea, LCSW
Andrea, a seasoned therapist with a Master of Social Work degree, boasts an impressive 13-year tenure in the field of mental health. She dedicates her expertise to a diverse clientele, including adults, transitional age individuals (16-26), children, and those grappling with co-occurring concerns, including selective mutism. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Andrea offers her services in various therapeutic settings, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Her commitment to professional development is evident through her pursuit of EMDR/EMDRIA certification, building upon...