Meet Our Therapists

Provider Support Team

Emily Huffer, Director of Implementation of Outpatient Services at Liveup Counseling.
Director of Implementation of Outpatient Services
Emily Huffer (she/her)

MS

Dr. Kimberly Ernest, Licensed psychologist and professional counselor at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed psychologist and professional counselor within the State of PA
Dr. Kimberly Ernest (she/her)

Ph.D., LPC

Chambersburg

55 Hamilton Rd Chambersburg, PA 17201
Kimberly Eckard, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
Kimberly Eckard

LSW

Alisha Heckman, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
Alisha Heckman

LSW

Brian K. Shaffer, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian K. Shaffer

PhD, FT, LPC, NCC, ICAADC, ACS

Janelle Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Janelle Ward

LPC

East Petersburg Clinicians

6079 Main St, East Petersburg, PA 17520
Brandy Bressler, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Brandy Bressler

LCSW

Ebony Eubanks, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
Ebony Eubanks

LSW, ACSW, CGT, CAMS-II

Cierra Fabian, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
Cierra Fabian

LSW

Laura Hank, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Laura Hank

LCSW

Carmen Marti, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Carmen Marti

LPC

Bebe Martinez, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
Bebe Martinez

LSW

Carl Sever, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Carl Sever

LPC

Ian Sonafelt, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Ian R. Sonafelt (he/him)

M.A., LPC

Harrisburg Clinicians

297 Care Street, Harrisburg, PA 17109
MarySebastian Braasch, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
MarySebastian Braasch, (they/them)

MSW, LSW

Amanda Backenstoes, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LiveUp Counseling's Harrisburg location.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Amanda Backenstoes (she/her)

LCSW

Francis Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Francis Collins

LPC

Kalie Hichez, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
Kalie Hichez

LSW

Kalie Hichez, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
Kalie Hichez

LSW

Kalie Hichez, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Social Worker
Kalie Hichez

LSW

Lebanon Clinicians

350 North 6th Avenue, Lebanon PA 17046
Alexis Becker, Licensed Master Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Master Social Worker
Alexis Becker

LMSW

Evelyn Lopez, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Evelyn Lopez (she/her)

LCSW

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Emily Huffer, Director of Implementation of Outpatient Services at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed psychologist and professional counselor at Liveup Counseling.

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.

Kimberly Eckard, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.

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.

Brandy Bressler, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

Brandy Bressler, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Brandy Bressler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and specializes in treating anxiety and mood disorders. Brandy has been a therapist for the past five years and her background includes working in both inpatient and outpatient facilities. She is trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) where she can help you work to uncover coping strategies to help manage life on life’s terms. Her goal is to help you uncover your true potential and create a life that is worth living.

Brandy’s therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert of your own life. You know your struggles and pain, as well as your truth. She will work with you to find the wisdom within to begin to heal the stress and emotional pain that you may be experiencing. She also believes that there is a strong mind/body connection, and she can help you work toward overall health.

She believes that creating safety is vital in a therapeutic relationship. Her hope is to provide you with a safe, comfortable space to allow yourself to be you. Brandy will meet you where you are and provide a strong therapeutic alliance. She looks forward to meeting and working with you!

Ebony Eubanks, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

Ebony Eubanks, LSW, ACSW, CGT, CAMS-II

Licensed Social Worker

Ms. Ebony Eubanks is a seasoned therapist with over 12 years of experience in community mental health. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from Temple University and is a certified Gestalt therapist, having completed a three-year post-clinical training program at the Gestalt Institute of Philadelphia. She is also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, holding a Level Two certification.

As an outpatient therapist, Ms. Ebony works with individuals, teens, couples, and groups. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma. Her expertise spans both inpatient and outpatient care, as well as substance abuse, dual diagnosis, and criminal justice interventions. Additionally, she serves as a practicum supervisor at the Gestalt Institute.

Ms. Ebony provides counseling, consulting, anger management, and life coaching, focusing on helping clients achieve positive change. She facilitates anger education and management programs and supports personal growth and relationship development.

Her diverse treatment modalities include group therapy, emotionally focused couples therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian counseling. She is a member of the Pennsylvania Society of Clinical Social Workers (PSCSW), the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), and the National Anger Management Association (NAMA).

Passionate about empowering individuals facing self-esteem and relationship challenges, Ms. Ebony also emphasizes the importance of self-care. To maintain balance, she enjoys spending time in nature and practicing yoga in her free time.

Cierra Fabian, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

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.”

Carmen Marti, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.

Carmen Marti, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Carmen Marti, LPC, is a bilingual (Spanish/English) licensed professional counselor with experience in community-based outpatient mental health and substance use disorder treatment who is enthusiastic about helping individuals of all ages navigate their mental health journey. With a client-focused and client-centered approach, Carmen ensures a welcoming, safe, and non-judgmental space in which to explore challenges, develop coping strategies, and foster personal growth.

Carmen provides treatment to help with anxiety, adjustment issues, depression, trauma, interpersonal struggles, stress, and life transitions. A holistic and eclectic therapeutic framework allows Carmen to draw from a variety of theories to integrate therapeutic approaches and techniques based on the individual’s unique needs and preferences. Carmen utilizes evidence-based modalities including CBT, DBT, CPT, EMDR, Flash Technique, mindfulness, and EFT, among others. Additionally, Carmen is an accredited Level-4 Triple P Positive Parenting provider.

In her spare time, Carmen loves to spend time with family, friends, and her three dogs. She also loves to do DYI projects, take care of her plants, and watch her favorite shows.

Bebe Martinez, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

Bebe Martinez, LSW

Licensed Social Worker

Bebe is a highly qualified and compassionate Licensed Social Worker in Pennsylvania. With over 13 years of experience in the social services field, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. A graduate of Rutgers University with a Master of Social Work, Bebe specializes in providing psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and life transitions.

She tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each client, believing that clients are the experts on their own experiences. Bebe creates a safe, authentic therapeutic space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and personal narratives.

Her approach is characterized by curiosity, humor, and compassion. These qualities, along with her collaborative mindset, foster a nurturing and affirming environment for clients to reconnect with their holistic selves. With Bebe, clients can trust they will be heard, supported, and guided on their healing journey.

Carl Sever, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.

Carl Sever, LPC

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.

Ian Sonafelt, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.

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.

MarySebastian Braasch, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LiveUp Counseling's Harrisburg location.

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, Licensed Professional Counselor at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed Master Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

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, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Liveup Counseling.

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.