Meet Our Therapists

Meet Our Therapists at A Brighter Tomorrow Wellness Center

This is a placeholder for the Yext Knolwedge Tags. This message will not appear on the live site, but only within the editor. The Yext Knowledge Tags are successfully installed and will be added to the website.
Sade Bethea

Sade Bethea , LSW

Hi! My name is Sade Bethea. I received my undergraduate dual degree in sociology and social work from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University.

I have always worked In the mental health field, services ranging from case management, child welfare, therapy and simply giving back any chance I can. I have worked greatly with children, adults, couples, and families. 

I am passionate about improving mental health services and advocating for all people. My therapeutic techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Process Therapy, trauma focused therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I am grateful and excited to be a partner in your mental health journey

Specialities: Anxiety, depression, coping skills, self esteem building, trauma informed 
Jacqueline Baker

Jacqueline Baker, LAC

Jacqueline (she/her) is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of New Jersey and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a minor in Sociology from Moravian College in 2009. In 2023, Jacqueline received a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The College of New Jersey. Between degrees, Jacqueline performed in-home social work for adults with physical disabilities and worked at a local nonprofit organization that helps low-income seniors apply for public benefits. She also volunteered with AmeriCorps NCCC, Philly Reading Coaches, and Crisis Text Line. As a counselor, Jacqueline has provided in-home behavior assistance for children and adolescents, counseled couples and individuals  in an outpatient setting, and facilitated a virtual support group for women.

Jacqueline is a person-centered counselor who shapes her eclectic therapeutic style to fit each client’s unique personality, multicultural identity, needs, and goals. She prides herself in working collaboratively, meeting clients where they are, and creating a warm, non-judgmental space where clients can heal themselves. Jacqueline uses humor, creativity, and existentialism to help clients explore themselves deeply and live authentically. She uses exercises from evidence-based approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and DBT to foster mindfulness and empower clients to make positive changes. Jacqueline received her Level 1 certification in Couples Counseling from the Gottman Institute and draws from this approach when working with couples. Jacqueline is trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid and uses trauma-informed approaches when helping clients of all ages process painful experiences.
  
Jacqueline lives in South Jersey with her husband and their canine son, Artie. In her spare time, she works on comedy projects, sings in a local feminist choir, plays video games, and travels.

Specialties: Children and Adolescents, Adults, Couples, LGBTQIA+, Motivational Interviewing
Leah Boyle
Hello! My name is Leah Boyle. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from Rowan University. Shortly after, I completed my graduate degree in Child Advocacy and Policy from Montclair State University. In graduate school I focused on child and adolescent psychology, social work, and family empowerment, and culturally competent care. I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. My experiences include therapeutic play, positive psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have worked with children with intellectual/developmental disabilities in school settings as well as in the home. I also have experience in adolescents and families in crisis. 

I have a passion for incorporating playful and artistic therapeutic activities to support and empower the families that I work with. When supporting my clients, I enjoy taking on a co-explorer role as we navigate behaviors, thought processes, and life experiences. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where my clients to be vulnerable and honest.  

Specialties: Children and Adolescents, Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, Family Systems, Positive Psychology, Depression/Anxiety
Mary Antolik

Mary Antolik, LCSW

Hello, my name is Mary Antolik and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University, and I am a registered yoga teacher (RYT-500).
Mindfulness-based practice is an influence in my work, and for over 15 years I have enjoyed working with adolescents, adults, and families experiencing a range of personal and mental health concerns.

In my experience most people seek counseling because they want to change themselves or their life in some way. Some people are more comfortable with the process, and they can dive right into sharing their thoughts and emotions. Other people may feel reluctant, overwhelmed, and unable to articulate what they are feeling and thinking, nevertheless share their intimate self with another. 

I understand the importance of building a trusting relationship, and creating a safe space that encourages self-discovery, healing and growth. I offer a caring nonjudgmental environment where individuals can examine their patterns, face difficult truths, and develop an authentic understanding of themselves. 

I welcome working collaboratively with individuals, and I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Mindfulness Practices.
Michael Hill

Michael Hill, LAC

Hi! I’m Michael! I have earned my master’s degrees in Counseling and Human Service Administration at Lincoln University and have had diverse counseling experiences, focusing on individuals, couples, and working with children and their families. I also have experience with substance use disorder and have worked with adolescents in an in-home therapy setting. My therapy style is eclectic including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Emotional Focused Individual Therapy.

It is my philosophy that every individual has the capacity to solve their problems. The therapeutic relationship that is client centered, gentle, empathic and trauma informed can develop goals, objectives, skills and tools to help you and your loved ones to lead, happier, healthier, more productive life.

Amy Torpey

Amy Torpey, LCSW

My name is Amy Torpey and I received my undergraduate degree from Boston University and Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, in-home, and facility-based care with all age ranges. I spent four of those years working in hospice where I developed a passion for helping families cope with end-of-life care and provided them with ongoing grief counseling.  

My mission is to help others improve their emotional intelligence and ability to cope with daily life stressors. I understand seeking therapy is not always an easy decision and I hope to provide an uplifting, positive, and supportive environment for you. I believe in meeting clients where they are at in their journey and building on all of our individual strengths.
Cierah Greene

Cierah Greene, LAC

I have experience working with diverse populations through a variety of issues. My style of therapy is relaxed and flexible while drawing from different therapy approaches and techniques to help you navigate challenges such as depression/anxiety, parenting issues, trauma, life transitions, etc.
I work from an “eclectic” approach to provide a personalized and genuine experience for teen and adult clients. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment to challenge and encourage clients to be the version of themselves they strive for. 

Through the use of humor, thoughtful dialogue, and activities I strive to create a supportive environment that will challenge you to grow.

Specialties: EMDR, LGBTQ+, kink communities, depression/anxiety, teens, adults, existential exploration
Corinne Stackpole

Corinne Stackpole, LSW

My name is Corinne Stackpole. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland and my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University. Most recently, I have spent my time as a hospice social worker, helping patients and families work through feelings of anticipatory grief, difficult family dynamics, coping with terminal illness, and end of life wishes. I am passionate about improving mental health services and addressing the social determinants of health. My therapeutic techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Process Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I am excited to begin working along side you. 

Specialities: Anxiety, depression, coping skills, grief, chronic illness, life transitions

Christopher Liano

Christopher Liano, LPC, ACS, D.SOC.SCI

My name is Christopher Liano and I studied at William Paterson University, Wilmington University. I have 10 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. My expertise is working with Depression and anxiety disorders, PTSD, behavioral disorders as well as special needs populations. Specialties of CBT / trauma-informed counseling, mindfulness, PCIT, ARC/ GROW. 

An individualized and strength-based approach, to help clients reach their own needs and goals is my treatment philosophy. I believe that all individuals have strengths and innate abilities to grow and thrive. My therapeutic focus is to help them tap into these strengths and abilities and develop coping skills to help them gain awareness and insight.
Arielle Hardrick

Arielle Hardrick, LPC

My name is Arielle Hardrick and I have five years of counseling experience. I have seven years working with behavioral adolescents and youth with developmental disabilities. I studied at Hofstra University and The Professional Psychology of Chicago. I specialize in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Behavioral Management. I also have experience working with individuals suffering from anxiety, grief, and depression. 

My question to my clients is how do you see your best self? I want to be able to get you there. I wholeheartedly believe in meeting the client where they are at and giving genuine support. As a therapist, I don’t want to tell you what to do. I’d rather help guide you in the right direction and help you to be comfortable with the decisions you make. If you find it difficult to socialize, experience loneliness or struggle with grief or trauma, talk to me. Together, we can work on solutions that allow you to address the root causes and help build a better you. 

Specialties: teens/college students, Depression/Anxiety , TF-CBT 
John Pinto

John Pinto, M S, LAC

 I have experience working with adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, and stress, and I have a passion for working with folks in the LGBTQIA2+ and kink communities. I provide gender affirming care and you will always have a safe and brave space in my room! I'm a secular therapist with acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and existential therapy backgrounds; but your therapy depends on you. What works for someone else might not do it for you, so we'll work together to personalize your journey to a healthier state of mind. My style is relaxed and informal. We'll look at how you think and the things you do, learn about the way your brain works, handle stress, do self-care and self-love, and accept what can't be changed. We can also process your past, set goals for your future, and explore your personal values. Asking for help and looking for support are the actions of a brave and strong person, especially when the socially prescribed treatment is "deal with it." You don't need to do it alone. Even if you just need to chat and vent, I'm more than happy to talk video games and cats!

Specialties: LGBTQIA2+, Kink & CNM, Secular Therapy, Depression, Anxiety, Stress
Abigail Purcell

Abigail Purcell, LAC

 I am an empathetic and enthusiastic counselor. I am passionate about mental health and helping my clients improve their overall wellness. Seeking therapy can feel intimidating, however I hope to make this as comfortable as possible for you. I strive to build trust and safety within the therapeutic relationship to allow you to feel in control of your treatment. I will meet you where you are at every session. 

My clients can expect goal setting, mindfulness, collaborative problem solving, strengths building, and unconditional support amongst other techniques. My experience is with adolescents and adults with general mental health concerns as well as families and couples struggling with interpersonal relations. I am also eager to work with anyone who suffers from substance abuse, whether it is yourself or someone you care about. Whenever you feel ready to take the next steps, I look forward to working with you!

Specialties: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationship issues, trauma, addiction recovery, familial difficulties, ages 9-65
Jennifer Morris

Jennifer Morris, LSW

My name is Jennifer and received my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Lincoln University in 2010 and my Master’s in Social Work from Rutgers University in 2015. I’m a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in the state of New Jersey.

I have worked as a School Social worker providing services including individual counseling, group counseling, and crisis prevention/intervention. 
I have also worked with individuals and groups with mental health and substance abuse at the inpatient level for three years.
 
I believe in an individualized approach in order to meet the needs of each client. Methods include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and positive psychology.

Specialties: Depression, Anxiety, CBT, solution focused therapy, positive psychology, Ages 18+
Joanna Thacher

Joanna Thacher, LAC

My name is Joanna and I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Rutgers University in 2011 and my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University in 2016. I have worked at the inpatient level for five years providing group therapy for various populations. I use an individualized eclectic approach in order to meet the needs of each client. 

I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) and Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of New Jersey. 

Specialities: anxiety/depression, CBT, mindfulness, positive psychology, ages 18+
Beth Fleischman

 Beth Fleischman, LCSW

Beth earned her undergraduate degree in Family Studies from the University of Maryland in 1998. After returning back home to NJ, Beth began working at a community mental health agency, while she pursued her Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University. She graduated magna cum laude in 2002. Beth continued her work with children (and their families) who were in crisis by providing intensive, in-home family and individual therapy. After four years of post graduate supervision and master’s level therapy work, Beth earned her LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in 2008. She continued to provide in-home therapeutic services to children and their families in Burlington and Camden counties through NJ Children’s System of Care and began to see clients in an outpatient setting. Beth spent 3 years studying and training in Sandplay therapy. After nearly 20 years in the field, Beth’s passion and areas of interest remains working with children, teens and their families, who struggle with the far reaching effects of mental illness.

Beth believes that in order for change and growth to occur, her clients need to feel comfortable first. Beth does this by creating a nurturing, accepting and an emotionally safe environment. She believes in the therapeutic process and an essential part of that process is, developing the therapeutic relationship. Together with her non-judgmental nature, genuine interest and unconditional support, the therapeutic relationship begins. Beth believes that one of her greatest strengths is to help people feel cared for and at ease. Beth has found that providing her clients with psycho-education, has also helped to empower them on their journey. Through validation her clients’ thoughts & feelings and combined with her limitless empathy & patience, she has been able to offer an opportunity for a uniquely tailored approach to her client and therapeutic needs. Through the utilization of both traditional psychotherapy modalities and incorporating many of the holistic therapy tenants, such as Sandplay therapy; Creative & Expressive Therapies (art, clay, drawing, journaling, poetry, etc); play-type therapy activities; Mind-Body Connections; Meditation; Stress Management (and others, when deemed clinically sound) are synthesized into an individual approach, that serves as a multi-faceted tool, aiding in the process of helping restore her clients with a sense of hope and wellness.

Specialties: Sand Play Therapy, Children/Adolescents
Emma Ledden

Emma Ledden, LAC

My name is Emma Ledden and I received my Bachelor’s degree in Art Therapy from Marywood University, and my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and in Art Therapy from Drexel University. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and I am in the process of becoming a credentialed art therapist. 

When words fail, art speaks. I believe that the creative process of art-making has the power to tap into the unconscious mind to provide an outlet for individuals who cannot process their experiences through words alone. I have experience working in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, drug and alcohol facilities, and outpatient settings, and I have worked with a diverse range of individuals, including children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families. As a clinician, I believe that every client is a master of his or her own life’s journey, and I strive to assist my clients on their paths toward mental wellness and emotional healing. 

My approach to therapy is eclectic, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.  

Specialties: CBT, DBT, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction Recovery, Trauma-Focused
Stephanie Leifer

Stephanie Leifer, LCSW, Clinical Director

Hi, my name is Stephanie Leifer and I am a Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey. I received my BA in Psychology from Bucknell University and my MSW from NYU Silver School of Social Work in 2013. I received my certification in clinical supervision in 2020. I deeply enjoy working in the mental health field and have worked in a variety of settings including a voluntary inpatient psychiatric unit as well as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient level of care, involving running groups, individual and family sessions, crisis intervention, and case management. I have worked as a clinician as well as a coordinator for mental health programming and have worked with individuals with a variety of diagnoses, including co-occurring diagnoses.


I specialize in working with adults 18 years of age and up who are looking for a kind, empathetic ear to intently and actively listen, be supportive, and provide concrete skills to help with coping with day to day life as well as major life struggles or transitions. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative environment and enjoy utilizing DBT, CBT, motivational interviewing, and strength-based approaches to help assist clients reach their goals.




Amanda Haidet

Amanda Haidet, LCSW

My name is Amanda Haidet. I completed my MSW from Rutgers University and have been in the field for over twelve years in a variety of settings including court-appointed Guardian Ad Litem work, inpatient social work and admissions, juvenile justice, intensive in-home treatment, and individual and family therapy. I use a strengths-based and solution-focused approach. I believe we all have the ability to find and live as the best version of ourselves.

I proudly opened A Brighter Tomorrow Wellness Center in 2019 and have strived for excellence in every aspect since. We focus on customer service, client support, and providing a relaxing and aesthetically appealing environment. We hope you feel like a part of our family from the time you arrive until the completion of your treatment. We are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your journey and look forward to meeting you!
Lisa Shorter

Lisa Shorter, LPC

Hi there! I received my undergraduate degree from Rutgers University and earned my Masters’ degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The College of New Jersey. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC), with over six years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including schools, intensive -in-home, and outpatient, with clients of all ages.  
 
My approach for the therapy setting is built around meeting each client at their own level of need. It is important for the environment to feel comfortable, safe and authentic, and all my efforts are to provide that within the therapy setting. I believe in a holistic approach focusing on Cognitive-Behavior Therapy along with Strength-based and Mindfulness interventions. My specialties including anxiety, trauma, grief/bereavement, relationship issues, depression, parenting issues, and social/school refusal.  
 
My mission is to provide a supportive, open environment to assist each client in having the opportunity to work through the needs that are bringing us to meet. I look forward to working together! 
 
Specialties: CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma, Depression, Grief/Bereavement Therapy, Teens, youths under 10, LGBTQIA+
Share by: