MS
Ph.D., LPC
LPC
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Emily Huffer, (she/her) MS
Director of Implementation of Outpatient Services
Emily’s clinical background surrounds working with individuals, both adolescent and adults, working through trauma, anxiety, depression, and family therapy. Emily provides care through multiple approaches, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapist, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Person of the Therapist model.
While Emily does provide care to clients, she also is the Director of Implementation at LiveUp Counseling by providing support in the onboarding process and support at the clinic. Emily is currently not available for new clients due to being the support staff member to new therapists at LiveUp Counseling.
“I live my life off the principle of being present and providing a space for others to feel comfortable and safe to enact positive change, whatever that might look like. I try to work my life, my personal relationships, my workmanship, and my spirituality towards this moment for others and myself.”
Dr. Kimberly Ernest, (she/her) Ph.D., LPC
Licensed psychologist and professional counselor within the State of PA.
Kimberly’s clinical passions are focused on the area of community mental health and supporting traditionally underserved or marginalized populations. She has a tendency to utilize numerous evidence-based practices within her treatment to ensure clients receive quality care, with influences from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy, Emotion Focused Couples Therapy, and Dialectical behavior therapy.
In terms of clinical specialties, Dr. Ernest works well with trauma, couples and family therapy, behavioral addictions, pornography addiction, and mood disorders.
At this time, Dr. Ernest is not available for new clients but serves to support the other clinicians at LiveUp Counseling through consultation and training.
Carl Sever, LPC
clinical consultation leader & Licensed Professional Counselor
Carl Sever is a Licensed Professional Counselor and specializes in treating Addictions and Codependency; Trauma, Abuse, and PTSD; Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Thought Disorders; Intrusive Thoughts, Grief, and Loss; Adjusting to Physical Health Issues; Parenting Challenges for Children and Adults with Extreme Behaviors.
Carl enjoys learning and outdoor activities, especially fishing and hiking. He’s an old movie buff and book worm. Appreciating living life in recovery.
Kimberly Eckard, LSW
Licensed Social Worker
Kim is a licensed social worker with a diverse background in supporting clients across various stages of life. She has extensive experience working with children on the autism spectrum, individuals struggling with substance use disorders, couples in need of relationship counseling, and providing end-of-life care to the elderly.
Her approach is rooted in the belief that no one is better than anyone else, and that we are all here to support each other in one way or another. Kim strives to meet her clients exactly where they are on their journeys, offering a compassionate and nonjudgmental space for growth and healing.
In addition to her professional work, Kim is a big fan of Disney, Penn State, and anything related to Minions. She has a deep love for animals, especially her “fur babies.” Outside of work, she enjoys spending time indulging in her favorite fandoms and cherishing moments with her pets.
Alisha Heckman, LSW
Licensed Social Worker
Alisha is a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to promoting wellness in her community. Throughout her career, she has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship challenges.
Alisha believes in a holistic approach to therapy, recognizing the unique experiences of each individual. She is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
In her free time, Alisha enjoys exploring nature, engaging with art and music, cooking, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Brian K. Shaffer, PhD, FT, LPC, NCC, ICAADC, ACS
Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian K. Shaffer is a clinician with over 25 years of experience in the fields of spiritual and pastoral care, grief, loss, bereavement, trauma care, mental and behavioral health, and addiction. In addition to his private counseling practice, Brian serves as an Online Adjunct Faculty member for Grand Canyon University and Montreat College.
Brian is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Nevada, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire. He also holds credentials as a National Certified Counselor, an Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and an Approved Clinical Supervisor. He has earned a Master of Theology degree, a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling/Mental Health, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision.
Brian’s focus is to provide counseling, assessment, and intervention services to help clients achieve their goals for a more authentic life. He has a passion for offering quality care, support, and services to both clients and students in the areas of addiction, mental health, counseling, and spirituality. For self-care, Brian enjoys playing golf, hiking, biking, walking, exploring, spending time with his dog, relaxing at home with music, re-learning Spanish, and volunteering with his church and community.
Janelle Ward, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Janelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in family-based, outpatient, and school settings. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her clinical areas of focus include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, family and marriage counseling, and addictions.
Janelle emphasizes the importance of building a strong, safe therapeutic relationship and takes a holistic approach to treatment. She sees therapy as an opportunity for clients to build healthy relationships, recognize their inner strengths, and discover their personal path to change.
Janelle uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including client-centered therapy, systemic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and motivational interviewing.
In her free time, Janelle enjoys hiking, running, traveling, reading, and spending time outdoors with her family.
Cierra Fabian, LSW
Licensed Social Worker
Cierra Fabian is a dedicated licensed social worker in Pennsylvania, specializing in behavioral health within minority communities. She earned her graduate degree in social work from Millersville University of Pennsylvania and currently serves as a behavioral health case manager for Geisinger Health Plan in the Lehigh Capital Area. With over 10 years of experience in community-based mental health, she has worked in various roles, including counselor and case manager, providing critical support to individuals facing acute crises in emergency departments.
In addition to her current role, Cierra is set to begin offering therapy at LiveUp Counseling and is actively pursuing her LCSW, along with certification in the treatment of women with pre/postnatal mental health, furthering her commitment to empowering those in need.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Cierra enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their two sons, ages 3 and 16 months, as well as caring for their beloved animals. Her passion for family and community drives her dedication to improving mental health outcomes for individuals and families alike.
Laura Hank, LCSW
Licensed clinical social worker
Laura Hank, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with over 14 years’ experience in various settings, including school, telehealth, and community-based outpatient mental health helping adults, adolescents, and families navigate life’s challenges. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, Laura provides a safe space for clients to share their feelings as they take their first step toward better emotional awareness and mental well-being.
Laura has expertise in treating a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life changes. Laura helps clients develop the skills and insights they need to achieve their goals by using evidence-based approaches such as person-centered, strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy and mindfulness-based strategies. While Laura does provide care for her clients she is also the Clinical Supervisor for the Lancaster and Columbia School-Based Outpatient therapist teams and is able to provide Licensing Supervision for individuals working on their LPC or LCSW in Pennsylvania.
“I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am dedicated to helping clients achieve their full potential by taking the step toward a happier, healthier life.”
Coral Lively, MA, LPC., BSL
Licensed Professional Counselor
With six years of experience in the mental health and behavioral health field, Coral works with children, adolescents, and adults. Specializing in ecosystemic structural family therapy, trauma, abuse, PTSD, and behavioral therapy, Coral has extensive experience supporting individuals with autism, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Coral employs strength-based methods and humor, when appropriate, to help clients navigate various aspects of their lives and achieve personal growth through therapy. Her therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered Therapy, along with incorporating elements of Art and Play Therapy as needed.
Outside of work, Coral enjoys physical activities such as going to the gym and taking her dogs for walks. She is also passionate about music, movies, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Ian R. Sonafelt, (he/him) M.A., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Ian has been working in the field of mental health services for 8 years. His experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. He has helped clients navigate focuses such as depression, anxiety, addiction, family and marriage counseling, and trauma.
Ian’s approach to therapy seeks to help clients discover opportunities for self-empowerment in their lives. He believes personal growth can be aided by exploring discrepancies between individuals’ ideals, values, and choices through a non-judgmental lens. Active collaboration with clients to make progress in their goals is one of the ways he seeks to support them as a therapist.
Ian utilizes several evidence-based therapeutic approaches to match with clients’ goals, such as components of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness strategies, and existential therapy.
In his free time, Ian enjoys horror-related media (movies, books, etc.), tabletop gaming with friends, new food experiences, video games, and being woken up at 3 AM by his two cats.
Grace Orama, LAPC
Licensed Associate Professional Counselor
Life can be full of surprises yet, hard to navigate, but I believe that we all have the strength and resilience to grow and change, and live a more fulfilling, meaningful life. Together, we work to know and understand what that means. Therapy is a challenging, yet warm process that entails self-reflection and honest conversation. It is important for me to create a space for you to feel comfortable and to encourage you to learn more about yourself and your needs at your own pace.
My goal is to help you reach your goals in a supportive, empathetic, and compassionate space where you feel safe, empowered and respected. I have found that when we learn more about ourselves and our mental health, we invite the power of knowledge that evokes change.
My approach to the therapeutic relationship and the therapy process involves concepts of Acceptance Commitment Therapy with a Strengths-Based approach. I am also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and am trauma-informed.
My clinical background involves mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, personality conflicts, LGBTQIA, individuals with neurodivergent abilities, Schizophrenia and related, relationship conflict and more.
In my free time, I thoroughly enjoy exercising, baking and cooking, finding new or fun activities to do with my family.
MarySebastian Braasch, (they/them), MSW, LSW
Licensed Social Worker
MarySebastian is a LSW who will be submitting for the LCSW August 2024. MarySebastian specializes in the area of neurodivergence (ADHD & Autism) with a subspecialty in working with children and adolescents who identify as LGBTQIA+.
MarySebastian uses trauma informed practices, play therapy, Buddhist principals and creative arts therapies. During non-working hours, MarySebastian enjoys spending time with their wife and cats, writing and creating music, playing video games, consuming sci-fi and fantasy media, and gardening.
Amanda Backenstoes (she/her), LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in community mental health across various settings. She specializes in treating anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. Amanda works with children, adolescents, adults, and couples navigating relationship conflicts.
Her professional background includes roles in adult case management, drug and alcohol treatment, and outpatient facilities. She has also served as a family educator for an early intervention psychosis program.
Amanda utilizes evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and solution-focused treatment. She is committed to meeting you where you are, recognizing that you are the expert in your own life and treatment. Together, she will help you identify your personal treatment goals, develop healthy coping strategies, and explore the underlying causes of your symptoms.
Amanda believes that creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is essential for meaningful progress. Her goal is to provide a positive and effective therapy experience that supports you in improving your quality of life. She looks forward to working with you.
Francis Collins, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Mrs. Fran is a licensed counseling professional and board-certified art therapist with experience in child, adolescent, and young adult therapy. Her primary goal is to create a safe, nurturing space where clients can explore, heal, and grow. Fran has expertise in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions, and she incorporates TF-CBT, CBT, and play therapy techniques.
Through creative expression, Fran works with clients to explore emotions, build coping skills, and foster resilience.
Kalie Hichez, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Kalie Hichez is a Licensed Social Worker with nearly 10 years of experience in mental health, supporting individuals of all ages in a variety of settings. She is dedicated to fostering mental and emotional well-being, providing a safe, trauma-informed space where clients can explore their strengths and navigate life’s challenges.
Outside of her professional life, Kalie enjoys reading and spending time outdoors with her family.
Alexis Becker, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Alexis Becker is a dedicated therapist who specializes in helping adults navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger management. With a compassionate and personalized approach, she empowers her clients to find healing and resilience through tailored therapeutic techniques.
Alexis is committed to creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their emotions and overcome challenges on their journey toward mental wellness.
Evelyn Lopez, (she/her) LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Evelyn Lopez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has 7 years experience in therapeutic counseling services with children, adolescents, and adults. Her previous experiences in Child Welfare and Family Based Therapy has equipped her with a wealth of experiences and knowledge in personal relationships.
Evelyn is dedicated to creating an environment where the client feels seen, respected and empowered.
Michael Posivak, MSW, LSW
Licensed Social Worker
Michael Posivak is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with extensive experience providing therapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families. He holds a master’s degree in social work from Kutztown University and is fully licensed to practice in Pennsylvania. Throughout his career, Michael has focused on helping clients navigate challenges related to mental health, addiction, recovery, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
With a client-centered approach, Michael utilizes a holistic framework and a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed care. His commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies has earned him the trust and respect of those he works with. He is known for his warm, empathetic style and his ability to form strong, supportive relationships with individuals facing a wide range of life circumstances.
In addition to his work with individuals, Michael specializes in family therapy, helping families strengthen communication, resolve conflicts, and build healthier dynamics—especially in relationships where addiction is present. He has worked in various clinical settings, providing therapy to adults and couples.
Michael is deeply committed to ongoing professional development and regularly participates in continuing education and workshops to stay up to date with the latest therapeutic techniques. Outside of his practice, he is an advocate for addiction and mental health awareness as a healthcare legislative advocate, striving to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction issues.
When he’s not working with clients, Michael enjoys traveling abroad and spending time with his dog, Buster. He believes in the power of self-care and mindfulness to foster personal growth and resilience.
Marisa Printz, LSW
Licensed Social Worker
Marisa Printz, LSW has over thirty years of experience in mental health service delivery and administration. She has familiarity working with varied and diverse populations ages 7 and older, and supports clients and families confronting challenges in the areas of grief/loss, divorce, coparenting, parenting, domestic violence and other acts of violence, as well as survivors of suicide, and common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc.
Former employment roles have included much of the continuum of mental health treatment services in several states across the US in programming such as CRR Host Home, Crisis Intervention, Partial Hospitalization, Residential, Inpatient, Family Based, IBHS, and outpatient services, as well ancillary services such as case management, supportive living, drop-in centers, clubhouses, and more. Marisa graduated from Penn State University in 1998 with a BS in Psychology and from Syracuse University in 2002 with her MSW. Her approach to treatment is integrative, client centered, usually inclusive of CBT elements, as well as focused on the system impacting the overall well-being of the individual. Marisa approaches her personal and professional relationships with the ideology that everyone has something to learn, and everyone has something to teach.
She is a mother to three children, active in her community’s Suicide Prevention Task Force, volunteer at a local organization offering services to victims of trafficking, and former County CASSP Board Member in a neighboring county. Most of Marisa’s time is spent at her children’s activities including cheerleading, gymnastics, soccer, basketball, flag football, and tackle football. Her hobbies include baking, hiking, reading, live music events, keeping current on trends in mental health service delivery, and spending time with family. Marisa offers telehealth sessions with some limited in-office appointments available and also has some weekend and evening hours to accommodate families’ busy lives.
