Meet Our Therapists

Dedicated to improving the lives of our clients.

Joe Kort, Ph.D

Founding Director, Psychotherapist, Licensed Master Social Worker, Coach and Author

Joe Kort, PhD, LMSW, is a psychotherapist, board-certified clinical sexologist, and the founder and clinical director of The Center for Relationship Health in Royal Oak, Michigan. With over 40 years in private practice, he has helped hundreds of individuals and couples enhance their lives and deepen their connections through a range of therapeutic approaches.

Dr. Kort is the author of seven books covering topics such as male sexual identity, relationships, and sexual fluidity. He also is the author of a book for clinicians working with the LGBTQIA population. He has written numerous published journal and magazine articles and is a regular contributor to the online blog for Psychology Today. Dr. Kort is in his third season of Smart Sex, Smart Love, a podcast series featuring a variety of topics – from sexual health issues to parenting conflicts, men’s health, sexuality as you grow old, marital problems, dating today, transgender concerns, kink, and much more (www.smartsexsmartlove.com).

Dr. Kort also conducts workshops and intensives for singles and couples.

His career focuses on advancing the social acceptance and professional treatment of issues surrounding sexual health as well as the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities.

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Family Counseling

Fernande Ayoub

Limited Licensed Psychologist

Do you find yourself overwhelmed by stress, parenting challenges, trauma, anxiety or grief, and feel like you’re struggling to manage difficult situations? If so, you are not alone, and there is help available.

As a Master-level psychologist and a Ph.D. candidate, specializing in infant mental health, parenting issues, grief and loss, stress, trauma, anxiety, and depression for over 23 years, I am here to offer you the support and guidance you need to navigate these challenging times. My expertise and compassionate approach will help you get your life back on track and regain a sense of control and well-being. I can equip you with tools and strategies to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that are impacting their well-being, allowing them to manage stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health challenges more effectively.

Sometimes life can bring some unexpected challenges. I can help you improve your quality of life and overall well-being. Build stronger relationships and connections with others. Achieve personal growth and self-development; gain a better understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and to develop healthier coping skills for dealing with challenges.

Fernande is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.

Ages: 0 years and up; Infants, Children, Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Family Counseling

Katherine Baessler

Licensed Master Social Worker

Having a solid sounding board and support system can be crucial to navigating life’s ups and downs.  Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a new diagnosis, changing relationships, or a struggle with anxiety or depression, every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and validated.  Therapy with the right clinician can be an invaluable resource in maneuvering the unexpected or persistent challenges we face.

After over a decade of working in hospice care with diverse populations, I have significant experience in supporting individuals through complex life transitions, family dynamics, and emotional/ physical trauma.  I strive to empower clients to identify, build, and hone their coping skills, process difficult experiences and emotions, build resiliency, and achieve a sense of peace and calm in changing circumstances.  Utilizing eclectic and person-centered approaches to therapy, it is my goal to foster a supportive, compassionate, and safe environment for clients to grow.

Whether this is your first time engaging in therapy or something you’re returning to, I am ready to join you through whichever up or down you may be experiencing.  Together we can find balance, growth, and coping.

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling & Couples Counseling

Toni Cardon

Limited Licensed Master Social Worker

Are you navigating trans femininity and womanhood in our current political climate? Or perhaps trying to understand your sexual or gender identity while being exposed to a disapproving environment? Were you raised by or dating a narcissist and trying to recover your sense of self? Are you of Asian American descent and need someone who understands the nuances of that experience? Are you recovering from trauma by religion or a cult? Do you struggle handling the hurdles life throws at you? Maybe you have ADHD and trying to juggle expectations and responsibilities, but you need help affirming your inherent worth.

I use a client-centered approach combined with coping skills from CBT, ACT, and DBT. Understanding what we do in our minds is the best start to managing our mental health. I have a special interest in helping teenagers and adults explore their gender and sexual identity and helping people of Asian descent manage their mental health.

I am of Asian descent, queer, trans, and I have experience working with clients across the gender and sexual identity spectrum. I speak Japanese as my heritage language. I specialize in LGBTQIA+ identity, Trans issues, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, Asian American mental health, religious trauma/cult recovery, and spirituality.

Ages: 14 years and up; Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling & Couples Counseling

Rita R. Clark

Licensed Master Clinical Social Worker

Welcome – Your New Beginning Starts Here

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. I provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your concerns and work toward mental, emotional, physical, and sexual well-being. Whether you’re struggling with intimacy, sexual dysfunction, gender identity, healing from trauma, or struggling with anger, anxiety, or depression, my goal is to help you feel understood, supported, and empowered.

I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide range of concerns, including sexual health challenges, gender dysphoria, compulsive sexual behaviors, and intimacy issues. I also offer trauma-informed care and inner child therapy. My approach is integrative—drawing from cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques—to create a plan tailored to your unique needs.

Let’s take the next step together. As a LMSW with over 25 years of experience, I’m committed to helping you rediscover confidence, connection, and purpose. Your next chapter begins with a conversation. Schedule a confidential consultation today and start your journey toward healing and growth.

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults
Types: Individual Counseling & Couples Counseling

Eric David

Licensed Master Social Worker

Are you curious about what circumstances, traumas, and relationships have set the stage for how you experience your life? Are you feeling stuck inside yourself or your relationship? Are you overwhelmed by thoughts and anxieties that seem insurmountable? Does it seem like your own queerness is too difficult to parse on your own?

Sometimes, our own minds, bodies, and psyches present questions and challenges that feel too difficult or complicated to face on our own. These unknowns can lead to confusion and suffering in our relationships with others and our own inner lives.

I use a client-centered, psychodynamic therapeutic process with clients. I am queer and have a range of experience in working with clients across the spectrum of sexuality and gender. I have particular interest and experience in the areas of religious trauma, sexual trauma and health, family conflicts, and generalized mood disorders. Whatever you might be bringing with you into our work together, I will aim to help you approach yourself, your relationship, and your life with deeper meaning and freedom.

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Family Counseling

Charla Davis

Limited Licensed Master Social Worker

Are you tired of feeling consistently unheard and misunderstood? Do you want to improve your sense of belonging and connection to the world around you and the people in it? Have you found yourself isolating or concealing your feelings when you really want to be seen and loved? Maybe you and your partner are struggling to see each other’s point of view? Or you feel you feel like you’re hiding important parts of yourself from your loved ones. Maybe you want to become the kind of person you need right now for both yourself and others.

I help clients connect their mental, emotional and physical health. Some modalities I utilize are CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy. I work with individuals and couples who feel out of place in society as they navigate the complex landscape of depression, anxiety, loneliness, spirituality, religious trauma, and communication skills.

You may not be the first person to go through what you’re going through, but those other people aren’t you! As we dig deep into who you are and what you want to achieve, we work to determine what you’ve already tried, what has been successful, and what challenges have slowed you down. Together, we’ll build brick-by-brick the road leading to your destination.

Ages: 18 years old and up; Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling and Couples Counseling

Laura Feeney

Licensed Master Clinical Social Worker, LISW-S

Laura Feeney has 25 years of experience working with a diverse population of all ages. She specializes in addiction, trauma, behavioral issues, chronic relapse, life transitions, oppositional defiance, peer relationships, personality disorders, and other mental health issues. Interventions and approaches Laura may use in her sessions include cognitive behavioral, person-centered, relaxation and EMDR (eye movement and desensitization reprocessing). She facilitates the process of healing with a strengths-based perspective. Laura has additional training and expertise in working with first responders including police officers, firefighters, and health care workers that deal with traumatic experiences on a daily basis.

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling and Couples Counseling

Gregory Johnson, Ph.D.

Licensed Master Social Worker

Gregory Johnson has extensive experience working with the LGBTQIA +community. He works from a holistic perspective using various evidence-based research-based therapeutic modalities including:

Dialectic Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), including Exposure Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), The Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Polyvagal Theory.

He is passionate about developing a targeted treatment plan to assist clients with various challenges toward embracing and taking action on a life worth living. His clients include individuals, couples, families and teens as well as older adults. He earned his PhD in Educational Studies from Eastern Michigan University after successfully completing his dissertation with a focus on understanding and unpacking the connection between adolescent LGBTQIA+ bullying, marginalization, and mental health and educational outcomes.

Ages: 12 years and up; Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Family Counseling

Ryan Mast

Limited Licensed Psychologist

Whether your relationship is months, years, or decades old, you may find yourself unsatisfied with how it has developed. What once was an enriching love may feel burdensome, tiring, or negative. You and your partner owe it to yourselves to do some maintenance on a relationship that once was strong! Even though everyone approaches relationships differently, we have our own responsibilities in making it work. Building trust and communication is key so we will make sure that everyone is heard equally.

Our sessions will help you to bring the positivity back into your relationship. We will reduce unhealthy arguments and build towards constructive conflict that can help you reach your shared goals. You will find yourself actively building friendship, intimacy, and positive affection for your partner.

I use Gottman Method Therapy in my couples work and have completed level 2 training. Every couple has different needs, concerns, and difficulties. I have empathy for your unique situation and will help you navigate these challenges.

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling & Couples Counseling

Erica McMurtry

Licensed Master Social Worker

Erica McMurtry specializes in working with those who have experienced trauma.  She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, an evidence-based therapy that can help individuals heal from trauma and other emotional issues.  Erica has been successful with helping people heal from their past and move forward into their future.  She also works with couples experiencing relationship difficulties due to sexual health issues.  Erica takes a holistic and eclectic treatment approach by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Christian Counseling, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).

Ages: 13 years and up; Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Family Counseling

Stephen M. Pilarcik, Psy.D

Clinical Limited Licensed Psychologist (LLP)

Dr. Pilarcik has more than 12 years of professional experience in individual, couples and family counseling. He has worked with young children as well as older adults, helping with mood dysregulation, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), and intellectual disabilities. He has led LGBTQIA+ support groups as well as drug and alcohol recovery support groups.

Ages: 10 years and up; Children, Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Family Counseling

Diane Levy-Rubinstein

Licensed Master Social Worker

Are you tired of living in an emotional hell where your relationships are struggles instead of pleasurable meaningful experiences? Do you have trouble with interpersonal effectiveness as well as controlling your emotions? Do you find yourself battling with depression and anxiety? Are you frequently experiencing conflicts with your partner? Considered marriage or couples counseling ? Do you find that your communication skills are indirect, and you are not getting what you want? Are you grieving the loss of a spouse, child or friend? Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Are you looking for a life worth living?

I completed my graduate studies in clinical social work at Wayne State University both in individual and group practice areas. I have a gerontology certificate and have worked with aging issues and related illness. I took extensive training in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, (DBT) and offer both individual and skills group training.

I retired from CMH in 2013 after working 30 years with intensive mental health and substance abuse. I missed treating clients so started a private practice. I offer a warm non-judgmental environment to address your emotions and ways to regulate them so you will have your LIFE WORTH LIVING.

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling and Couples Counseling

Sarah Scales

Licensed Master Social Worker

Sarah Scales has a special interest in helping families and adolescents navigate the challenges the younger generation face as they grow up and become more independent. Her approach involves a combination of family and individual analysis, to help build bridges and give children the tools to be successful. She also works with individuals who identify or are diagnosed with neuro-atypical conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and intellectual disabilities who need help with anxiety and depression. Some of her therapies include Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT).

Ages: 8 years and up; Children, Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Family Counseling

Alliyah Smith

Limited Licensed Master Social Worker

Do you often ask yourself what is going on in your own head? Do you strive to improve your mental health but don’t know where to start? Do you desire to get better at communication with your loved ones or want to be more understood? I am here to help you navigate through that process. My biggest goal as your therapist is to ensure we work together to get to your desired destination, whether that is individually, with a partner, or family.

I utilize narrative therapy and psychodynamic therapy primarily, though there is no one-size fits all modality. Flexibility is key when it comes to mental health improvement. So I will provide a non-judgmental, open environment that feels collaborative in order to gain self-awareness, self-advocacy, and general tools to feel better moving forward in life.

It’s a vital component of life to have stability and the tools to cope with the rollercoaster that is life. Let me assist you through those ups and downs. Identifying how life in your past can impact your present and even your future. As well as how you think and speak about yourself and the effects it has on you. I am here to help and so glad you are taking the first steps towards your goals!

Ages: 10 years old and up; Child, Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, & Family Counseling

Aneshia Solomon

Licensed Professional Counselor

Are you going through a major life transition? Are you struggling with sexual and relationship issues and can’t get resolution? Has it been difficult for you to find a therapist who you can relate to? You are the expert and you know your life better than me. I will give you the tools and you can tell me what works and what doesn’t.
Aneshia is a limited licensed clinical mental health counselor. She works with adults and couples with a wide range of mental health concerns which include depression, anxiety, sexual health issues, trauma, abuse, and marital issues. Aneshia uses a client-centered approach and provides you with strength-based support. She believes clients are the experts.
I have seen clients who have been through therapists trying to find the right fit and I know this can be frustrating and time consuming. By the end of the first session I will be checking in with you to ensure this is a good fit for you since this is a collaborative effort. I use a humanistic approach with each and every unique client.
 

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults
Types: Individual Counseling and Couples Counseling

Amanda Stein

Licensed Master Social Worker

Have you found traditional talk therapy to be less helpful? Or are you open to exploring new pathways to healing? You might feel disconnected from your body, yet desire to be more present in your life. Perhaps you feel a change needs to be made, but you struggle to pinpoint or commit to making that change.

I specialize in using somatic techniques to help clients heal and feel more embodied in their lives. Whether the trauma was in childhood or recent, it can make us feel stuck. By prioritizing safety and presence, we can learn to accept what was and create a more meaningful life. I have over 17 years experience in suicide prevention and crisis. I also founded one of the first suicide attempts survivors group in Michigan.

I encourage you to reach out with questions and explore if this would be a good fit for you.

 

Ages: 12 years and up; Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling and Couples Counseling

Jamie Vedua

Licensed Master Social Worker

I want to congratulate you on taking the first step towards creating a healthy, confident, and empowered mindset for everyday living. I genuinely understand how daunting the process of finding therapeutic help can be, and I’m here to make the process as smooth as possible. I cater to clients ages preteen and older, who may be faced with discouraging thoughts, overwhelming environments, life transitions, and maintaining healthy boundaries in personal relationships. If you are on the path to figuring out who you are; and hoping to feel safe and accepted, you are in a welcoming environment.

I support individuals by prioritizing evidence-based practices to make your experience helpful and accessible. I use my training in practices such as Parent Management Training – Oregon Model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to create a trauma-informed and client-centered atmosphere in every session. With this approach we are able to individualize your treatment around your desired outcomes, leading you through the everyday challenges that come with parenting, relationship dynamics, and traumatic experiences. These efforts will navigate clients to better understanding of themselves, helping them live authentically in their identity.

Personal growth creates a calling for vulnerability, which can feel scary and challenging. We may not always feel comfortable sharing our struggles with friends or family. In times like these, providing an encouraging, judgement-free, safe environment is an honor for me. I will treat every individual with the utmost respect for the journey they’re on. Whether you’re just entering parenthood, beginning to understand your identity in the LGBTQIA+ community, or learning to truly love yourself, I am here for you no matter what. Together we will form a partnership to help heal your inner child, strengthen skills you’ve already begun to develop, and build lasting confidence. It is my goal to help every individual grow to their full potential, and embrace their truest self.

Ages: 13 years and up; Teens, Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Family Counseling

Caity Waldorf

Licensed Master Social Worker

Do you think you might be neurodivergent such as being on the autism spectrum or ADHD? Do you have unhealed trauma? Have you questioned your sexuality or gender identity? Are you seeking compassionate support on your journey to healing and self-discovery? As a skilled psychotherapist specializing in ADHD, autism, trauma and sexuality and gender issues, I offer space for clients to explore their unique challenges and strengths.

With a tailored approach to therapy, I provide guidance and strategies to navigate life’s complexities with confidence and resilience. Let’s embark on this journey together using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focus, and Queer Affirmative Therapy.

It is difficult in this world and current political climate to navigate your day to day life let alone your future. It can be difficult to know what is right for yourself when there are so many directions, opinions and options. Let me help you find the tools to take a more active approach in your life that is right for you.

Ages: 6 years and up; Children, Teens, Adults
Types: Individual Counseling and Family Counseling

Kel Weller

Psychotherapist

Are you struggling to feel heard and understood in your relationship? Do you or your partner know how to listen for feeling and meaning with one another? Perhaps you know what thoughtful questions to ask, but the conversation quickly becomes too difficult to have. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Certified Sex Therapist who specializes in couples work, I believe that relationships can be a powerful source of healing and a chance to grow when all partners feel seen, heard, valued, and understood.

With over 17 years of experience, I have seen and helped many people with their relationship concerns. I work with couples experiencing communication breakdowns, recurring conflict, trust issues, emotional disconnection, sexual communication challenges, and life transitions. I teach couples to identify unhelpful patterns and develop healthier ways of relating to each other.

My counseling style is supportive and collaborative. I strive to provide a safe space where both partners can speak openly, explore deeper emotions, practice empathy and validation, and reconnect with shared values and goals. Whether you are seeking to improve your communication, deepen intimacy, improve your sex life, or make thoughtful decisions about your future, I can help. I am here for you to give you the techniques and strategies to move from feelings of frustration and distance to a relationship of understanding and connection.

Ages: 20 years and up; Adults
Types: Individual Counseling and Couples Counseling

Veronica Lujic

Limited Licensed Master Social Worker

Do you feel understood and heard by your partner(s), and do you think you’re communicating effectively with them in return? Are you looking for help to overcome challenges and create a successful, fulfilling relationship? I work with clients both individually and with their partner(s) to find their relationship vision, learn heartfelt communication, and find safety in sharing feelings with one another. I have experience helping clients who are part of any relationship configuration, whether it be monogamous or non-monogamous. Clients who have experienced trauma that impacts their relationships are also welcome to my office.

As part of my work, I help clients individually and together learn to empathize, understand each other’s perspectives, and work with them on recognizing and accepting their differences. I also take a client-centered approach and teach body awareness through mindfulness. Our intuition is an amazing tool, and I can help you listen and trust it again.

Find the inner strength to take that first step in finding help and learning to believe in yourself again. Together, we’ll make a road map to find that individual and relationship vision. That way, you can fully embrace and reach out for the good things you deserve in life.

Ages: 18 years and up; Adults, Elderly
Types: Individual Counseling and Couples Counseling

Our Support Staff

Dedicated to improving the lives of our clients.

Noah Jaisinghani
Office Manager/Claims Director

Rachel Wynn
Billing Specialist/Front Desk Administrator

Layla Wynn
Front Desk Administrator

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