Newsletter

Welcome to our newsletter! Here you'll find a mixture of articles written by our staff, clinician spotlights, resources for clients & their families, and much more...

Mental Health By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

Wakefield office is moving to a new location!

 

 

We are excited to announce that the Wakefield office is moving to a new location!

Mark your calendars!

As of September 14th, we will be located at:

599 North Avenue, Suite 8-2A

Wakefield, MA 01880

 

Please update your records and contact your counselor directly with any questions.

Thank you for your continued support!

 

 

 

Mental Health By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

Clinician Spotlight: Saoirse Donegan, MEd

Meet Saoirse!

Saoirse works virtually with clients throughout the state of Massachusetts.

When did you first know you wanted to become a therapist?

After traveling around the world working as a professional photographer, elementary school teacher, and yoga instructor, I found myself becoming increasingly interested in the human psyche and the shared experiences that shape our lives. Each of those roles allowed me to witness people's resilience, creativity, and capacity for growth, but I felt drawn to connecting with others on a deeper, one-to-one level. Over time, I realized that becoming a therapist would allow me to combine my passion for helping others with my lifelong curiosity about the human condition.

Where did you go to graduate school?

I attended Cambridge College, where I earned my Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. I completed both graduate school and my clinical internship this past spring, an experience that strengthened my commitment to providing compassionate, trauma-informed care to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

What is something you have discovered about being a therapist that perhaps you didn't realize when you first started this journey?

One of the biggest things I've learned is that therapy isn't about having all the answers or "fixing" people. It's about creating a relationship built on trust, curiosity, and authenticity, where clients feel safe enough to explore their experiences and discover their own strengths. I've come to appreciate how powerful simply being fully present with another person can be, and how meaningful change often happens through small, consistent moments of connection over time.

What are some of the most used approaches or interventions you use in your sessions?

My approach is person-centered and collaborative. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based practices, and somatic approaches to support each client's unique needs and goals.

Having spent more than 20 years studying and practicing yoga and mindfulness—and nine years teaching yoga—I naturally integrate mind-body awareness into my therapeutic work. I believe emotional well-being is deeply connected to our physical experiences, relationships, values, and daily habits. I strive to help clients cultivate greater self-awareness, nervous system regulation, and self-compassion while developing practical tools that support lasting change.

What do you do for self-care that helps you be present in sessions?

Before beginning my workday, I take time to ground myself and connect with my body so that I can be fully present with my clients. Walking is an important part of my self-care practice, and I usually begin and end my day with a walk in nature. It helps me reset, process experiences, release physical and mental tension, and return to the present moment with renewed energy and focus.

Which themes or topics interest you when considering continuing education in the near future?

There are many therapeutic approaches that I hope to explore more. I'm particularly interested in advanced training in couples therapy, Relational Life Therapy (RLT). I'm passionate about lifelong learning and continually expanding my skills so I can better support clients across different stages of life and healing.

What is one of your favorite psychology-themed books?

It's hard to choose just one! A few books that have been especially meaningful to me are When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön and Siddhartha by Herman Hesse. Both explore themes of suffering, growth, self-discovery, and compassion in ways that have influenced both my personal life and professional work. More recently, I've enjoyed reading The Vagus Nerve Reset by Anna Ferguson, which offers fascinating insights into the connection between the nervous system, healing, and overall well-being.

Schedule an Appointment

We are accepting new clients!

Clinician Spotlight • • By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

Clinician Spotlight: Bailey McCombs, LMHC, EAT

Meet Bailey!

Bailey works with both in-person and virtual clients in our Tyngsboro location.

1.) Hi, Bailey! When did you first know you wanted to become a therapist?

For as long as I can remember I knew I wanted to work in a therapeutic capacity. When I was a teenager, I started working at a summer camp for individuals with special needs which solidified that desire. I was seeing the positive impact on the individuals and their family members after a week of strength-based therapeutic care and knew I wanted to find a way to provide longer term support.

2.) Where did you go to school and what was one of the highlights of your learning experience?

My undergraduate degree is from Saint John Fisher College in upstate NY. A prime highlight of that time was studying abroad in Grenoble, France. My Master's degree is from Lesley University where I really enjoyed my internships, one of which was in a Memory Care Unit.

3.) What is something you have discovered about being a therapist that perhaps you didn't realize when you first started this journey?

Prior to being a therapist I did not realize how connected many agencies and practices are. It is interesting to see how many people I have worked with in other capacities that I now work with, or around as an outpatient therapist.

4.) What are some of your most go-to approaches, interventions or skills?

A main approach I use is Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment (SMART). This intervention allows me to provide coaching for families and explore what sensory inputs will help their children in staying regulated, as well as to help the children with body awareness and understanding how their emotions tie into movement.  I also use a variety of non-verbal interventions (art, writing, and visual aids) to facilitate communication between myself and clients as well as between clients and their families.

5.) What is one of the more challenging things about being in this field?

A difficult part of being in this field is the lack of access for everyone who wants to have services.  It can be heartbreaking to know that there are people and families who are seeking support, but they may not have the insurance, or ability to fund their needs.

6.) Which themes/topics interest you when considering continuing education in the near future?

I am very interested in EMDR and deepening my understanding of processing trauma in new ways.

7.) What is one of your favorite psychology-themed books?
"Brain on Fire" by Susan Cahalan is an incredible true story about a neurological disorder.
Clinician Spotlight • • By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

Clinician Spotlight: Lindsey Spratt, LMHC, BC-DMT

Meet Lindsey!

Lindsey is a virtual therapist and works with clients throughout the state of Massachusetts.

1.) Hi, Lindsey! When did you first know you wanted to become a therapist?

I have known since college that I wanted to be in a profession working with and connecting people. I had originally thought I would go down a medical path. However, after working in a nonprofit after college with mothers and children, I experienced the power of voice and the ability to share one’s stories and connect with others. This is when I realized I wanted to continue to do deeper work with people to give a space for their voice and connection/belonging.

2.) Where did you go to school and what was one of the highlights of your learning experience?

As an undergrad at Mount Holyoke College I studied both dance and psychology. This is where I started to make the connection between movement and healing and movement and expression. I went to graduate school at Lesley University where I received a degree in Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Dance/Movement Therapy. I believe there are many ways for individuals to express themselves and having a combination of both verbal and nonverbal communication can sometimes make expressing and processing emotions more accessible.

3.) What is something you have discovered about being a therapist that perhaps you didn't realize when you first started this journey?

I think perhaps one thing I theoretically knew but did not fully resonate with me until I became a therapist is how individual everyone's experience is with therapy. Everyone has a unique experience, background, and story and while it is really powerful and important to create connection and belonging there is no “one size fits all” approach to therapy and that both the approaches and the therapeutic environment needed vary greatly depending on the individual.

4.) What are some of your most go-to approaches, interventions or skills?

I take a very person-centered approach with each individual. I think creating trust and a safe therapeutic space is the foundation for any other interventions. Other interventions I utilize often are mindfulness, body awareness, expressive therapy interventions, and CBT.

5.) What is one of the more challenging things about being in this field?

One characteristic I highly value as a therapist is empathy. Being able to connect to and understand a client’s experience is an important aspect of supporting an individual’s therapeutic journey. However a challenge that comes with an empathetic connection is being mindful of maintaining appropriate boundaries for myself in my work and life. While this balance sometimes changes, the awareness of the boundaries allows me to stay deeply present with my clients while maintaining appropriate self-care for myself.

6.) Which themes/topics interest you when considering continuing education in the near future?

I am very interested in how different aspects of individuals’ identities and their communities can shape their experiences and wellbeing. I think that understanding oneself and feeling a sense of connection and belonging go hand in hand.

7.) What is one of your favorite psychology-themed books?

"Relational-Cultural Therapy" by Judith V. Jordan because it looks at an individual in the varying contexts of their lives.

Clinician Spotlight • • By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

Clinician Spotlight: Courtney Stellmach, LMHC, CEIS

Meet Courtney!

Courtney is practicing out of our Tyngsboro office. She works both in-person and virtually.

1.) Hi, Courtney! When did you first know you wanted to become a therapist?

I can recall a time in college, when I was reading a research article about expressive therapies being used with pediatric oncology patients. I remember being very intrigued by not only the concept of expressive therapies, but also the variety of settings therapy can be utilized. After that, I would say that I had a series of little moments and experiences that guided me to becoming a therapist.

2.) Where did you go to school and what was one of the highlights of your learning experience?

I earned my Master’s degree from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA. I attended Roger Williams University in RI, where I earned a dual, undergraduate degree in psychology and dance performance. In my senior year at Roger Williams, I had the opportunity to complete two projects in both of my programs. I was selected by the psychology dept. to conduct my research study as the Principal Investigator. In my other area of study, I was working on my thesis, which included a composed performance piece of work, and this was selected to be performed at the American College of Dance Association. It was a really unique opportunity to have these two very different passion projects be recognized, and it really illustrated the importance of support and mentorship as I had some truly inspirational professors working alongside me during this time, as well as the support of my family.

3.) What is something you have discovered about being a therapist that perhaps you didn't realize when you first started this journey?

When I think back to my approach in the very beginning,  I had a really narrow focus on learning and applying theories and interventions. In doing so, I was not necessarily aware of the impact of worldly or cultural influences. Some recent examples to this are the pandemic, and the role of technology in our daily lives, and now I realize the major implications events like this can have in the work with clients.

4.) What are some of your most go-to approaches, interventions or skills?

I have a very individualized and person-centered approach. I facilitate skills to build self-awareness to promote change and self-growth. This may look different for each person and include mindfulness interventions or CBT interventions. When working with younger clients, I am very play based and client centered.

5.) What is one of the more challenging things about being in this field?

I am constantly working towards prioritizing self-care. Maintaining a self-care routine comes with its own challenges, and requires a lot of honesty & self-awareness, and may look different from last year to the next. Doing this work outside of sessions helps me be present and available in sessions with my clients, as well as people in my personal life.

6.) Which themes/topics interest you when considering continuing education in the near future?

Right now, I am pursuing continued education in DBT. Looking ahead in the future, I would love to revisit the theme from my earlier education and training,  and pursue more education around the body/mind connection and mindfulness.

7.) What is one of your favorite psychology-themed books?

"A General Theory of Love" by Lewis, Amini, and Lannon, illustrates how emotions and experiences are played out in our brains and body. It is a great book that helps better understand the body/mind connection, and the science behind emotions. My second favorite is "The Creative Habit" by Twla Tharp, which I love because of its creative and unorthodox presentation to themes of self-awareness, existence of patterns in our lives, and routines.

Therapy By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

Art Expressions: An Art Therapy group for seniors

We are excited to announce that there will be a new art therapy group offered for the seniors residing at Brightview Senior Living Community located in Wakefield, MA. Simona Granfone will be facilitating this group with the possibility of adding a second group in the near future. We are happy to be able to support our local community by providing this resource. Art Therapy groups can be very effective in relieving stress, allowing for emotional expression, and encouraging the development of coping skills. We look forward to more collaboration with Brightview Senior Living Community.

If you have an interest in Art Therapy or would like to learn more about our services please contact us.

What is Art Therapy?

Through creating art and reflecting on the art products and processes, people can increase awareness of self and others, cope with symptoms, stress and traumatic experiences; enhance cognitive abilities; and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures …

Read more

Community By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

Puerto Rico Aid: Update from Amanda Bruce

Back in September Amanda Bruce coordinated a community effort to gather much needed supplies to send to the residents of Puerto Rico who were severely impacted by Hurricane Maria. The campaign was very successful due to the generous donations of so many friends and colleagues.

We recently asked Amanda to share what the experience was like for her…

Amanda: I started the PR drive not fully knowing how complicated drives could be. Growing up, my mother was always helping out drives at the Unitarian Church we attended. From her example, I was taught, when there’s a need, you help. And even if it causes me a bit of stress, it’s less than the stress of going without power and clean drinking water for days on end.

I was thrilled to see families in my community step up – some were friends of mine, and some were people I didn’t know. A friend of mine had a mini-drive at his work to supply mine. I publicized it by posting on town parents’ pages, and by creating an event on Facebook. I posted a few videos to update people on where their goods were going, and what had been collected. The power of social media! I also invited my colleagues at work to participate, and they did.

It was not without difficulties! I soon found out very few places were accepting material items for PR. I figured someone in NYC might be donating, and I was right! The FDNY/police department was collecting life-saving supplies at different precincts throughout the city. My husband had a work trip a week ago, so I decided to go down with him and drop the items off.

I will say this: It is tiring to help others, especially when it’s out of your normal comfort zone! But it’s pretty rewarding. It’s inspiring to see others step up in your community, and it doesn’t hurt your own self-esteem to do something for someone else.

Thank you Amanda for your incredible generosity and commitment to others. And thank you for sharing your experience with us.

Highlights By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

Happy 5th Anniversary CSGB!

October marks 5 years that CSGB has been serving the greater Boston community. Happy 5th Anniversary to Counseling Services of Greater Boston!

We got to catch up with co-founder Dana Venable and ask her a few questions about this milestone.

Q: What’s one of the highlights from the past 5 years that you’re proud of?

Dana: The growth of CSGB has been incredible. Five years later, we’ve helped over one thousand individuals and families in the community, created 12 jobs and developed a second site in Georgetown, MA!

Q: Are there any new professional adventures coming up in the near future?

Dana: Right now we’re focusing on managing our growth and keeping up with the needs of the community…after that point, who knows? Our potential is limitless.

Did you know that Boston Voyager interviewed Dana several months ago. To see the interview click on this link: bostonvoyager.com

Mental Health By Nova Carmichael 0 Comments

World Mental Health Day

October 10th is World Mental Health Day!

World Mental Health Day was started by the World Health Organization (WHO) to bring greater awareness to mental health issues around the world. Despite the progress that has been made to reduce the stigma of mental illness, many people still feel ostracized and singled out within their families and communities. Most of us know someone, or are someone, who struggles with some form of mental health issue. Sometimes it is hard to know what to do, or how to support those that we love and care about. If you are ever in doubt it can be helpful to take some time and reflect on your own feelings, how they impact your day and your relationships, and to cultivate some empathy for yourself as well as others.

How common is mental illness?

  • 1 in 5 (or 43.8 million) adults experience mental illness in a given year.
  • 1 in 25 (or 10 million) adults experience a serious mental illness.
  • 1 in 100 (or 2.4 million) live with schizophrenia.
  • 2.6% (or 6.1 million) of Americans have bipolar disorder.
  • 6.9% (or 16 million) suffer from severe depression.
  • 18.1% (or 42 million) live with an anxiety disorder.
  • 90% of those who die by suicide have an underlying mental illness.

And yet:

  • Only 41% of adults with a mental health condition received help and less than 50% of children 8-15 received mental health services.
  • Only 36.9% of those suffering from anxiety receive treatment.
  • Less than 20% of Americans with moderate depressive symptoms sought help from a medical professional.
  • And 4% of young adults with self-reported mental health needs forego care.
Statistics compiled from the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), the American Psychological Association (APA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH).

To learn more check out some of the links below…

 

 

Highlights By Amanda Bruce 0 Comments

Georgetown: Opening May 1st!

Counseling Services of Greater Boston is pleased to announce CSGB Georgetown will be opening on Monday, May 1, 2017!   Counseling Services of Greater Boston will be located on the second floor of 64 Central Street in Georgetown.  We are currently taking referrals!  If you or a loved one on the North Shore is interested in a session, please call our intake line at (781) 328-1904 x100.

We are thrilled to work with the warm community of Georgetown and its surrounding communities. For further information, please feel free to contact Amanda Bruce, LMHC, at (781) 328-1904 x103.