Little Egg Harbor

Athena is a licensed social worker in the state of New Jersey and has over ten years of experience working in the field. Athena graduated from Stockton University with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and was a member of the Psi Chi honor’s society. Athena received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University.

Athena has worked with young children ranging from 2 years to adolescence
and recently, has enjoyed working with the adult population. Athena has worked in school settings, outpatient therapeutic offices and worked for a crisis program for several years providing de-escalation tactics and resources to families. 

Athena utilizes person centered, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, behavioral therapy, crisis intervention strategies, family system approaches, anger management, grief, and play therapy techniques in the clinical setting. Athena specializes in anxiety, depression and trauma related challenges. Athena also enjoys utilizing mindfulness meditation techniques to increase feelings of relaxation.

Outside of the professional setting, Athena likes to go for walks outdoors, listen to music, spend time with her family, do arts and crafts, and travel. Athena believes that, “the best view comes after the hardest climb.”

Janina (Nina) Krawczyk is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) who believes that every individual has the strength within themselves to overcome any challenges life may throw at them. Nina has been passionate about mental health and substance use recovery since her Freshman year of High School, during which she had her first psychology course. She received her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University and her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. Nina’s approach to counseling includes creating and fostering a safe environment for all of the individuals she sees, and to assist individuals in working on their overall perspective about themselves and their life to truly allow their strength and resiliency to shine.

Nina specializes in working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families that struggle with the following: anxiety, depression, bi polar disorders, substance use disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, self-esteem, and relationships. 

Nina implements a variety of therapeutic approaches. She uses the following modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Strength-Based Therapy.

When Nina is not in the office, she enjoys playing with her two cats, spending quality time with friends and family, and simply relaxing at home or in her backyard. 

Our toughest battles are the ones within our own minds. Be proud of yourself for taking the first step to help yourself!

Nina is currently under the supervision of Joann Fella, LPC.

Kristen is a licensed social worker since 2010 in the state of New Jersey with over ten
years of experience in the educational and mental health fields. Kristen graduated with
a Master’s degree from New York University’s Silver School of Social Work with a focus
on grief, trauma and crisis intervention. Kristen has a certificate in Child/Adolescent
Mental Health from Rutgers University specializing in the treatment of children. In
addition, Kristen completed Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and
uses Gottman Method Couples Therapy in her work. The training focuses on research-
based strategies for improving relationship stability and using interventions to improve
conflict resolution, deepen the partnership, and foster improved communication.

Kristen’s professional experience includes working with children/adolescents in a school
setting and private practice, family therapy, and individual therapy. Kristen specializes in
addressing needs due to: inattention, impulsivity/hyperactivity, emotional dysregulation,
executive functioning weaknesses, poor peer relations and academic weaknesses.
Her underlying goal is to use strength-based practice to promote positive social
interactions, increase emotional well-being, and create opportunities for success in a
multitude of settings. To enhance and promote client success, Kristen uses techniques
from a variety of modalities leading to positive outcomes and enhancing the clients’
personal coping mechanisms to manage life stressors. Kristen specializes in working
with young children and adolescents through the use of regulation techniques,
identifying emotions, verbalization of thoughts and feelings and developing a toolkit of
skills and techniques for managing big emotions. Mindfulness, calming techniques, and
self-regulation are used in conjunction with focusing on a strength-based model, family
systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and crisis intervention.

In addition, Kristen provides support for families navigating the nuances of blended
families and families of divorce to promote positive co-parenting to enhance communication within the family system. The overall goal of therapy is to promote and support the success of the family by enhancing communication, coping skills and
positive family interactions.

Caitlyn is currently under the supervision of Joann Fella, LPC. 

Jennifer is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified trauma professional in New Jersey. She earned her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, from Capella University and holds an addiction certification. She currently maintains affiliation with the American Counseling Association (ACA). Jennifer is also an Army military veteran. Jennifer has extensive training in DSM5-TR diagnosis, addiction with co-occurring illnesses, sex offenders, and treatment of the Serious Mental Illness (SMI) population. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness and motivational interviewing.

Jennifer believes in using a compassionate, client-centered approach to meet clients where they are. She has successfully worked with a wide range of individuals, from age 4 to adults. Her ability to listen, empathize, and show compassion helps her to gain respect and build strong relationships with her clients. Her main therapy goals are to strengthen her clients’ innate abilities, bring them independence of mind, and empower them to make sound judgments.

Outside the office, Jennifer likes to spend time relaxing with her friends, family, and animals.

Joann is a National Certified Counselor as well as a Licensed Professor Counselor. Her professional affiliations include the American Counseling Association, New Jersey Counseling Association, and the Association of Student Assistance Professionals.

Joann has been working in the counseling field since 1993. She has over 20 years’ experience working with children and adolescents. She has been employed as a Student Assistance Coordinator at the high school level for over 18 years. Her clinical experience also includes family and group therapy. She has worked in both outpatient and in-home settings in addition to the school setting.

Joann believes that every child is a unique individual with unique needs. Her therapeutic approach is individualized to those needs. She doesn’t believe in a “one size fits all” approach. What she does believe in is personal responsibility, finding the change, and learning to navigate our way to that change. For some, it is a flick of the switch. For others, slow and steady wins the race.

When she is not working, Joann spends time with her family. She’s an avid reader and never leaves home without her Kindle. She’s Disney obsessed and, like Walt, believes “If you can dream it, you can do it.”

Gina is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) by the state of New Jersey. Gina graduated from Montclair State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, as well as a certification in Child Advocacy & Policy. Gina earned her Master of Social Work degree from Capella University. Gina has a decade of experience providing mental health services in settings such as private practice, community, residential, and inpatient environments. 

Gina is passionate about serving diverse populations, using integrity and open-minded collaboration to propel clients forward. Gina tailors her approach to best meet each client’s needs and practices with evidence-based modalities such as mindfulness-based stress reduction, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care. She has experience working with adults, children & adolescents, couples, families, and a multitude of psychiatric conditions. 

Gina views the therapeutic relationship as an instrumental tool for individuals to overcome personal challenges and to achieve confidence, peace, and authenticity in the lives they wish to lead. Gina believes that people are inherently resilient, and values the privilege of partnering with clients in their pursuit to connect with their own strengths and abilities.

Gina is focusing on furthering her clinical career to advance the accessibility of mental health services to New Jersey residents. Gina enjoys spending her free time with family and friends, relaxing with pets, traveling, being in nature, and trying new foods!

*Gina is under supervision of Wendy Kelly, LCSW

*Please note: Sierra is under the clinical supervision of Joann Fella* 

Carina is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) who works with adults across the lifespan and believes that meaningful growth begins with self-understanding, intention, and the willingness to create change. She earned her Master’s Degree in Applied Psychology from Rutgers University and her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. Her approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in authenticity. Carina is passionate about the intersection of behavioral science and what it means to feel deeply connected to oneself and others. She strives to create an inclusive, nonjudgmental space where clients from diverse backgrounds and life experiences feel supported in exploring patterns, challenges, relationships, identity, and personal growth. She believes that openness to self-exploration and change can be a powerful catalyst for greater fulfillment, resilience, and overall well-being. Carina has extensive experience working with neurodiversity across the lifespan, including ADHD, Level 1 autism, and executive functioning challenges. Over the past ten years, she has supported individuals in better understanding behavioral patterns, communication styles, emotional regulation, and practical coping strategies. She especially enjoys helping clients navigate periods of transition, identity development, academic or career-related stress, and the challenges of balancing everyday life while remaining connected to themselves and their goals. She also offers parent support and guidance to help caregivers better understand neurodiversity, strengthen communication, and foster supportive environments for growth and emotional well-being. Her therapeutic style is individualized and integrative, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Strength-Based Therapy, mindfulness interventions, and executive functioning support strategies. She values balancing insight with practical tools, helping clients not only better understand themselves, but also create meaningful and sustainable changes in their daily lives. When she isn’t happily absorbed in her work, Carina enjoys photography, hiking, Pilates, and weightlifting. She values creativity, movement, and balance as important parts of maintaining overall wellness and connection. *Carina is under supervision of Joann Fella, LPC*

Michelle is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who is passionate about supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. Her experience includes crisis intervention, mental health, long-term care, domestic violence advocacy, and child welfare. Through these experiences, she has learned the importance of meeting people where they are, listening without judgment, and helping clients recognize and build upon their own strengths.

Michelle utilizes approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing to help clients work toward goals that feel meaningful, realistic, and attainable. She believes therapy is a collaborative process and strives to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and comfortable being themselves.

She also values being culturally responsive and recognizes that each person’s experiences are shaped by their family, culture, relationships, and the systems around them. Michelle’s goal is to work alongside each client and their support system to build confidence, resilience, and lasting positive change.

Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time at the beach, working in her garden, traveling, and making memories with friends and family. She believes that finding balance and appreciating the little things in life allows her to bring authenticity, empathy, and compassion into the work she does.

*Michelle is currently under the supervision of Melissa Schwaner, MSW, LCSW.