Our Team

BRITTANY GOFF, MSW LCSW-CDirector of Clinical Services, Board Certified Supervisor & Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Brittany Goff, a licensed clinical social worker, brings a wealth of expertise and personal experience to her practice, specializing in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, ADHD, and Autism. Her academic foundations were laid at Salisbury University, where she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and subsequently obtained a Master’s degree in Social Work. Brittany’s early professional experience included provided trauma therapy to veterans with PTSD for the United States Veteran Affairs, and she served as a mental health therapist at Salisbury University’s Counseling Center, offering therapy to college students.

  • Lyme disease & PANS/PANDAS
    Before embarking on her clinical career, she engaged in an immersive study of Buddhism in Thailand, an experience that has significantly influenced her therapeutic approach. Brittany commenced her clinical career collaborating with a renowned medical doctor and microbiologist specializing in Lyme disease. This partnership was pivotal in her understanding of the complex interplay between physical and mental health, particularly in relation to autoimmune disorders, tick-borne diseases, bacterial infections, and viruses.

Legislative

  • Brittany’s has worked on several legislative bills to combat the politics around getting patients proper treatment for PANS/PANDAS. She was an integral part of a dedicated team working tirelessly on House Bill 447. This bill, which successfully passed, represented a major milestone in healthcare legislation in Maryland. It mandated insurance coverage for the treatment of PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) and PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome).

OCD & Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

  • Brittany is an experienced practitioner and author in Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT). She holds the distinction of authoring the first published I-CBT workbook. Her training and leaning of I-CBT was under the guidance of the co-founder of the theory, Fred Aardema, positioning her as one of the early adopters and first trainers of I-CBT in the United States. She has trained over 400 therapists in I-CBT.

Instructing & Teaching

  • Brittany Goff is an instructor at the Cognitive Behavioral Institute. She provides trainings on Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for psychologists, counselors, and therapists through providing Continuing Education (CE) trainings.
  • Brittany Goff provides Continuing Education (CE) trainings on Neuropsychiatric Lyme disease for other licensed professionals in addition to open ones to the public.
  • Brittany runs ongoing consultation groups for therapists to practice their I-CBT skills

She utilizes a combination of Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention therapy for treating OCD. She is also trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy. She practices by a values-based, anti-ableism, and a neuroaffirming approach.

In addition to her clinical expertise, Brittany holds a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification, enhancing her communication skills and cultural competence. She also holds a certification in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy Certification, by the Neurocare Academy with over 2000 hours of clinical practice utilizing TMS.

“I know that I’m not alone in experiencing how obsessional thoughts can play tricks on you, leading you to believe that a catastrophic event is about to happen. Previously, I would find myself believing these stories because my brain couldn’t distinguish between imagined and perceived thoughts, treating them equally – often as a threat. When we prioritize our imagined thoughts over our perceptions, we begin to weave narratives that range from fears of negligence, causing harm, losing control, susceptibility to illness, having harmful intentions, rejection sensitivity, or being immoral. The curse of a vivid imagination leads to something called Inferential Confusion, a key aspect in Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT). In this neuro-affirming and evidence-based approach, we explore OCD at a cognitive level, delving into the unique stories that fuel your obsessions. The resolution of an obsession often eliminates the need to purposely provoke anxiety. You have complete autonomy on if you wish to incorporate exposures into your journey through the complexities of OCD.

Approximately 70% of individuals with OCD also experience co-occurring disorders. In dealing with comorbid disorders such as ADHD, Autism, Persistent Drive for Autonomy (PDA), and Synesthesia, I integrate interoceptive work, co-regulation, self-regulation, stimming, and key aspects of Neurodivergence like a heightened sense of social justice, hyper-empathy, and masking. These traits can contribute to the formation of OCD narratives. For instance, your heightened sense of social justice might manifest as scrupulosity, while your hyper empathy could lead to people-pleasing behaviors or what looks like ‘responsibility OCD’. Masking, especially when done unconsciously, may be misinterpreted as harboring a secret agenda, being immoral/a bad person, or questioning your relationships.

Unique expectations of working with me:

  • I will want to know everything about your special interest. You can expect lots of fun info dumping, and incorporating those passions into treatment
  • I use visuals and videos to keep your ADHD brain focused
  • I know how to outsmart your Demand Avoidance
  • My two adorable Shih Tzus might make occasional appearances to brighten our sessions.

Let’s unmask together and navigate the intricacies of being neurodivergent living in a neurotypical world”

DR. STACY MALLARE, PMHNPPsychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Stacy earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and Post-master’s
Certificate in the Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program from the University of Maryland School of Nursing and is a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. She also earned a Master’s degree in Nursing from the School of Nursing and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park.
She has experience treating patients with obsessive compulsive disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma disorders and dual diagnosis. She is also certified to prescribe buprenorphine.

Dr. Mallare works with patients of all ages including children, adolescents, and adults. She has provided care in inpatient, outpatient, and virtual settings and works collaboratively with significant others in the plan of care, explaining how to support loved ones while they are taking medications. Additional therapies include Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy,
Acceptance and Commitment therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She stays apprised of evidence-based recommendations, recent research, up-to-date regulations, and available community resources to help connect clients to the best care available.

On the first visit, we will discuss your expectations and goals for treatment and develop a care plan. My job is to provide education, guidance, advocacy and appropriate medications for your journey to wellness. I offer flexible hours including evenings and can accommodate short notice sessions as my schedule will allow.

KIMBERLY GILLETTE, LCSW-CLicensed Clinical Social Worker & Board Certified Supervisor
Kimberly Gillette received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Social Work from Smith College, where she was trained using psychodynamic theory. She has been working with teens for almost 20 years; first in case management, and then for therapy. Kimberly uses a person-centered, neurodivergent-affirming approach in her work with clients and she works from an intersectional lens to help them navigate both systemic, interpersonal and psychological challenges. Kimberly has training and experience doing DEI work, TF-CBT, and brainspotting. In her free time, she trains for destination races, which help her stay grounded and engaged in clinical work.

“I was inspired to become a therapist by the helpers in my own life that facilitated my recovery from PTSD after a sudden loss in college. I originally developed my practice working with queer and transgender youth, adults and their families after struggling to find care for my transgender family member. This took me through WPATH training and more recently, to complete a certificate in Advanced Transgender Studies from Widener University. When Covid hit, my practice went through an enormous shift and I found myself noticing connections I had previously missed. After years of reading and researching everything I could get my hands on, as well as consultation, I realized that many of my clients were also neurodivergent. That led to my own self-exploration of burnout prevention and recovery, which heavily influences my work. Many of my clients also struggle with depression, anxiety and OCD, which inspired me to get consultation in treatment of OCD and now to learn and incorporate I-CBT. I firmly believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives and that I am just here to help you uncover deeper understandings and shift patterns that you have been stuck in and desire to change.”

PAT BROWN, LCSW-CLicensed Clinical Social Worker & Board Certified Supervisor
I am a psychotherapist with 26 years of experience. Areas of specialty include Exposure Therapy and iCBT for OCD, and CPT for PTSD. I became a certified trauma therapist while working at the V.A. with veterans having PTSD. My clinical expertise is broad with a variety of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, and bipolar. Therapies are strength-based. I would love to hear from you.

I have provided care in outpatient, inpatient, group and telehealth settings using individualized care plans that are strength based. Meditation and mindfulness is encouraged. Periodic screenings of symptoms can be helpful in tracking response to treatment and may show positive change over time. I enjoy the supervision of Master-Level Social Work Interns to build clinical skills as therapist. While working for the Veterans Healthcare Administration, I received certification in evidence- based treatments – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain, Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy for Combat and Non-Combat Trauma. I believe that evidenced-based care gives people hope, and I have been privledged to witness healing of mind, body and spirit.

BRUCE KIRBY, LCSW-CLicensed Clinical Social Worker & Board Certified Supervisor
Bruce Kirby is a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in Obsessive – Compulsive Disorder and Anxiety disorders. He works with adults, adolescents and families. He utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Inference-based CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention and mindfulness approaches in helping his clients. In addition to broad training in OCD and anxiety disorders, he has completed in-depth training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused Therapy and Family Therapy.

Bruce believes that amplifying his clients’ strengths is crucial to successful therapy. He helps his clients cultivate increased self-compassion, understanding that many of their life situations lead to severe self-judgement and stigma. His personal struggles with anxiety have led to growth which has shaped him. Bruce wants to help you manage your OCD and anxiety, so you can live the full, rich, and joyous life you deserve
ANDREA ELLIS, LCPCLicensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Andrea earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. Upon graduation, she worked collaboratively with a treatment team to help the patients at the Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents (RICA) as a Child and Mental Health Associate for over 4 years. She earned her Master’s Degree from McDaniel College in Community Mental Health.

I have provided care in outpatient, inpatient, group and telehealth settings using individualized care plans that are strength based. Meditation and mindfulness is encouraged. Periodic screenings of symptoms can be helpful in tracking response to treatment and may show positive change over time. I enjoy the supervision of Master-Level Social Work Interns to build clinical skills as therapist. While working for the Veterans Healthcare Administration, I received certification in evidence- based treatments – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain, Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy for Combat and Non-Combat Trauma. I believe that evidenced-based care gives people hope, and I have been privledged to witness healing of mind, body and spirit.

HANNAH SEIBERT, LCPCLicensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Hannah received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in August of 2020. She completed a one-year internship in San Diego, California working with veterans of the U.S. armed forces. Her clinical treatment experience includes depression, anxiety, homelessness, and substance use. Hannah primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy elements in her treatment approaches.

Hannah also enjoys using an eclectic therapeutic approach as there is no one size fits all method to helping unique individuals. She works with all ages, including teens and children. Hannah feels a special connection to people suffering from OCD as she too suffers from this disorder and understands the frustrating effects that are involved in day-to-day living. Hannah has a passion for helping others and feels that it is a privilege to be let in to the lives of her clients.

ANNE LEVITSKY, LCPCLicensed Clinical Professional Counselor
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor specializing in obsessive compulsive disorder, grief and loss and mental health concerns related to reproductive issues. I utilize Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy combined with an eclectic style of counseling that is based on the individual needs of my clients.

I am a licensed graduate professional counselor specializing in obsessive compulsive disorder, grief and loss and mental health concerns related to reproductive issues. I utilize Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy and I-CBT combined with an eclectic style of counseling that is based on the individual needs of my clients. I have a Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Marshall University and have experience in a variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, acute, educational and long-term residential care. As both a therapist and someone who has been in your shoes, I know how overwhelming it can feel to make this first step. I want you to know that what you have to say is important, and I strive to create a space where you can safely and freely discuss all of your thoughts and feelings- even the ones you are afraid to say out loud.

JASMIN COOKE, LMSWLicensed Graduate Social Worker
Jasmin is a licensed master social worker specializing in Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Bipolar Disorders. Jasmin utilizes Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, along with Acceptance and commitment therapy when working with clients. Jasmin received her Bachelors degree in Sociology from University of Texas at San Antonio and Master’s degree from the School of Social Work from University of New England.

Jasmin has experience working with in Applied Behavior Analysis with children and teens diagnosed with Autism. She has also worked with individuals whom experienced trauma from sexual assaults and harassment. As someone who understands the struggles of intrusive thoughts, pressured anxiety and the weight of a depressive episode, Jasmin is here to help!

JACOB MCDONALD, LGPCLicensed Graduate Professional Counselor
Jacob’s professional background is in psychiatric rehabilitation programs having experience working as direct support staff as well as a site supervisor. Jacob is open about his personal experience being diagnosed with OCD and going through Exposure and Response Prevention treatment.

Jacob has made it his life’s purpose to help others manage OCD. When he is not working, Jacob enjoys traveling to other countries, teaching historical fencing, and spending quality time with his wife and two shi tzu pups.

REBECCA LEDERMAN, LGPCLicensed Graduate Professional Counselor
Rebecca got her masters degree in clinical mental health counseling at Wake Forest University. Rebecca has specialized training in treating anxiety disorders including OCD, GAD, and social anxiety. She espouses a Cognitive-Behavioral approach while utilizing Exposure and Response Prevention during the counseling process. Rebecca is also trained in inference-based cognitive behavioral therapy for treating OCD. She also enjoys adding elements of mindfulness and existentialism to improve her clients’ lives. Rebecca understands that struggling with OCD or social anxiety can feel quite lonely and isolating at times. She aims to empower clients with the skills they need to take back control over their emotions, feel fulfilled, and create the lives they hope for.

Rebecca hopes to catalyze deep inner healing in her clients. While counseling naturally involves serious work, Rebecca also understands that creativity, humor, and flexibility are the ingredients of a positive therapeutic relationship!

MARISOL ALSTON, LMSWLicensed Master of Social Work
Marisol is a licensed master social worker specializing in mental health and wellness. Marisol has experience working with a variety of diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, substance use disorders, and bipolar disorder. Marisol received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California. She has gained experience working in dual diagnosis centers and private practice. She likes to make use of different modalities based on the individual needs of her clients. Marisol is trained in a variety of evidence-based practices, such as Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)

“My main goal is to help you become your own healer by providing you the necessary tools and guide you in your journey.  My style is informal, since I believe that this allows for clients to feel comfortable and safe to share what is on their mind without any fear of judgment. I decided to join this field due to my own personal struggles with anxiety, and I wanted to become the person I needed when I was struggling the most. Therapy is meant to be for you to feel heard, and to have the space necessary for further healing… I am willing to  provide it!”

JENNA LINE, LMSWLicensed Master Social Worker
I’m Jenna (she/they) and I’m a social justice-oriented therapist who specializes in the treatment of Eating Disorders, OCD, Anxiety Disorders, and BFRBs. Before becoming a licensed therapist, I worked in mental health advocacy and peer-to-peer support. I have a decade of recovery from my own eating disorder and lived experience with OCD. As an AuDHDer, I’m committed to understanding your sensory profile and diving deep into the nuances of your experience. I approach therapy with empathy, curiosity, playfulness, and humor. My work is rooted in a liberation and equity framework that draws upon the intersectionality of critical race theory, feminism, queer theory, and mad studies. I champion an anti-carceral approach to care, where you actively shape your treatment with my guidance and clinical expertise.

I received my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Maryland and Master’s degree in Social Work from Walden University. Before joining Zen Psychological Center, I worked across various clinical settings, including Residential, Partial Hospitalization, and Intensive Outpatient programs, with a primary focus on eating disorders. I embrace a harm-reduction approach based on the principles of Health at Every Size®, respecting your autonomy over your own body. I offer Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Comprehensive Model for Behavioral Treatment (ComB), Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), Unified Treatment (UT), Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Family Based Treatment (FBT) depending on your needs and preferences.

JOEY SHEFFIELD, LMSWLicensed Master of Social Work
Joey Sheffield is a Licensed Master Social Worker. He graduated from the University of Maryland Baltimore with his master’s in Social Work. Joey has been working in the mental health field for five years. He has experience working with people who have OCD, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. Joey uses primarily Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. He tries to make sure that each therapy session is a partnership.
KELLY JONES, LGPCLicensed Graduate Professional Counselor
Hi, my name is Kelly (she/her)! I am a therapist who has experience working with a range of diagnoses including, but not limited to, OCD, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders.

I have received my masters degree in clinical psychology from Towson University. I have gained knowledge working in multiple settings including community mental health centers, inpatient care, and private practices. I tend to utilize different modalities depending on the needs of the individual. I am trained in inference-based cognitive behavioral therapy (I-CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP) for OCD. Additionally, I utilize other therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well as emotion work to aid in working through core fears.

My goal is to find a balance between meeting you where you are and encouraging you to continue to grow to your greatest potential. I recognize the isolation, frustration, and difficulties describing what you are going through, as I have experienced OCD myself. As someone who has now been through treatment, I’m here to tell you that you are not a bad person, but don’t take my word for it, take the first step and reach out to find out for yourself!