Kendall Square Clinicians
Warmth and Professionalism
While we may use somewhat different approaches, each therapist at Kendall Psychological Associates is committed to the principle of respect for our clients, and each therapy proceeds with non-judgmental careful listening, warmth, and professionalism.
Ethan Seidman, Ph.D.
Director
Dr. Seidman works with a wide range of individuals. His areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, online addictions, sex/sexuality issues, and blocks to productivity at school and work. Dr. Seidman is a Certified AEDP Therapist and is EMDR trained, and works to integrate those approaches, along with mindfulness practices. Dr. Seidman is the founder and director of Kendall Psychological Associates. He graduated from Wesleyan University and received his Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts Boston. He did his internship and post-doctoral fellowship at the Cambridge Health Alliance, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital. He was then a Clinical Instructor at Harvard Medical School for over 10 years.
“I provide a warm, attentive, and interactive psychotherapy relationship that aims to help people deepen their self-understanding, break out of hurtful patterns, and develop new modes of thinking, feeling, and relating to others that will reduce depression and anxiety.”
Lauren Dumont, Psy.D.
Clinical Director
Cambridge
Dr. Dumont works with adults, young adults, and older adolescents. She is trained to work with a wide variety of concerns. Her primary areas of interest include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression (with a special interest in depression among men), grief, difficult family issues, relationship concerns, and life transitions. She has extensive experience working with college and graduate students, and considers this to be a fulfilling specialty area. She also has experience working within corporate settings, and enjoys helping individuals integrate wellness in both their personal and work lives. She utilizes an integrative approach to therapy including cognitive-behavioral, emotionally-focused, and interpersonal therapies. She received her doctorate from Loyola University Maryland and has worked at various outpatient settings including New York University, the University of Delaware, and Drexel University.
“I am a therapist who is genuinely and whole-heartedly myself when meeting with clients. I allow my natural warmth, humor, and caring personality to come through during therapy sessions. While seeking help may come easy for some, I know it is difficult for others. Therefore, I prioritize co-creating a comfortable environment for us to work within. I strongly believe that identifying and expressing emotions, engaging in genuine moments of connection, re-framing problematic thoughts, and building helpful skills are key ingredients to well-being. Together we will design a therapy plan that is unique for you. I truly enjoy the work that I do, and always look forward to meeting new clients!”
Follow @dr.dumont on Instagram for inspiration on gratitude, mindfulness and emotional wellness.
Ryan Aylward, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Aylward works with adults across the lifespan struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, family issues, work and school challenges. He is trained in Internal Family Systems therapy and draws from psychodynamic and attachment theory, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Dr. Aylward graduated from Boston College and received his Psy.D. from William James College. He completed internships at McLean Hospital and Brandeis University as well as a post-doctoral fellowship at Boston College. Dr. Aylward has worked as a therapist and supervisor at Emerson College Counseling Center and Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates.
"Our work together will change your relationship with yourself and transform your relationships with the important people in your life. Developing a balance of acceptance and change will help you move past the challenges that bring you to therapy, so that you can move forward with what is valuable and meaningful in your life."
Adam Bazari, M.D.
Staff Psychiatrist
Dr. Bazari (he/him) provides psychotherapy and therapy combined with medication management to adults across the lifespan. His areas of interest include anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, navigating life transitions, relationship concerns, and working towards a greater sense of self and purpose.
His approach is relational, collaborative, and culturally affirming, and he employs an integrated but primarily psychodynamic approach to understanding patterns of relating to others and oneself, deriving meaning from past experiences, and recognizing the ways one’s choices may interfere with their life goals and sense of wellbeing.
Dr. Bazari received his M.D. from the UC Berkeley – UC San Francisco Joint Medical Program and he completed his psychiatry residency training at Cambridge Health Alliance. He is currently a staff psychiatrist and psychotherapy supervisor at Cambridge Health Alliance and a fellow at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.
"I see therapy as grounded in the creation of a collaborative, trusting space where clients feel affirmed in their identities and safe to explore their emotional life and past experiences. In this work, I hope to assist clients with fostering self-compassion and developing and working towards personal goals that are aligned with their values."
Austin Brooks, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Brooks’ primary areas of interest include: anxiety, depression, life transitions, interpersonal and romantic relationships, family issues, executive functioning, self-esteem, stress, and phobias. Dr. Brooks uses a collaborative and evidence-based approach, utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches to best match the needs of his clients. These include CBT, interpersonal, and insight-oriented therapy. Dr. Brooks graduated from the University of Mary Washington and received his Psy.D. from William James College. He completed his APA internship at the Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center and has worked in a variety of outpatient settings before joining Kendall Psychological Associates.
“For many individuals, the courageous choice to begin therapy brings up feelings of both hope and apprehension. People are often hopeful about making positive strides in various areas of their lives and at the same time, it can be understandably difficult to take that first step. I have great respect for people who make the decision to begin therapy, and I prioritize working with you to create a safe, genuine, and comfortable environment. I believe in an integrative approach to therapy with individually tailored treatments that are collaboratively determined with each client to best address their individual goals. Whether you’re looking feel better, fix a problem, or simply learn more about yourself, I genuinely enjoy this work and I look forward to helping you along this journey.”
Andrea DeBarros, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. DeBarros-Jensen works with adults, providing psychotherapy that integrates different approaches. Her areas of interest include: Anxiety, depression, trauma, marginalization stress, identity development, self-compassion, and interpersonal issues. She utilizes a psychodynamic perspective and incorporates elements of Relational Cultural Therapy with a trauma-informed lens to address the underlying impact of personal and racial/generational trauma. She has extensive experience helping young adults and adults establish healthier, more authentic relationships with themselves and with others.
Dr. DeBarros-Jensen also has extensive Health Psychology training, helping people with chronic pain, challenges with medication management, and terminal illness. Dr. DeBarros-Jensen is trained in heart-rate variability biofeedback and has extensive experience using this approach to help clients manage their physiological response to stress and anxiety.
Dr. DeBarros-Jensen graduated from Boston University and received her Ph.D. from Brigham Young University. She completed her APA-accredited internship at University of Massachusetts, Amherst and completed her postdoctoral fellowship at Boston College.
"My goal is to help my patients feel seen, safe and free of judgment. As a clinician of color, I am passionate about intersectionality, social justice, and centering the voices and experiences of oppressed and marginalized folks. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and work collaboratively with my patients in order to develop healthy ways to cope with life stress and help facilitate the changes people want in their lives."
Sophie DelDonno, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. DelDonno works with adults across the lifespan. Her primary specialty area is obsessive-compulsive disorder and related conditions such as hair-pulling and skin-picking. She also specializes in working with individuals experiencing chronic depression, anxiety, loneliness and disconnectedness, and perfectionism. While drawing from evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), her therapeutic approach is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Radically Open DBT.
Dr. DelDonno earned her undergraduate degree from Stony Brook University and her doctorate from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She completed her doctoral internship at the University of Chicago, where she received specialized training in the treatment of OCD and body-focused repetitive behaviors. During her post-doctoral fellowship at the Depression and Anxiety Specialty Clinic of Chicago, she served on the DBT treatment team while continuing her training in ACT and ERP. Prior to KPA, Dr. DelDonno was a staff psychologist and the Quality of Care Coordinator at the Depression and Anxiety Specialty Clinic of Chicago.
“I use evidence-based practices to support clients in gaining insight, psychological flexibility, and fulfillment. I strive to bring compassion, warmth, humor, and a collaborative style into the therapeutic relationship. Using your values and life dreams as our compass, we will practice new ways of dealing with difficult experiences as you work towards your goals. Ultimately, I aim for you to feel empowered with the skills and knowledge not only to sustain your therapeutic progress after our work together, but to continually build a life of meaning, richness, and vitality.”
Michael Di Bianca, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Di Bianca (he/him) works with older adolescents and adults across the lifespan, with a particular focus on the self-discovery and challenging transitions of emerging adulthood. His primary areas of specializations include: Trauma recovery, masculinity and men’s mental health, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, substance use, financial stress, and identity development. When working with survivors of any kind of trauma, he prioritizes the trust and pace that each person needs to create a sense of safety within therapy, in their own bodies, and in their relationships. He integrates various lenses to therapy, including relational psychodynamic theory, trauma-focused and neurobiological frameworks, and cognitive-behavioral approaches, and strives to use all of these in the context of a safe and warm therapeutic relationship.
He earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Boston College, completed his pre-doctoral internship at Towson University Counseling Center in Maryland, and his post-doctoral fellowship in clinical psychology at MIT Student Mental Health & Counseling Services. He has also trained at MassArt’s Counseling & Wellness Center and Massachusetts General Hospital's Charlestown Health Center.
Outside of work, Michael is an avid soccer fan, enjoys cooking, biking, and playing guitar, and can often be found reading anything from fiction to political history.
I hold on to a deep appreciation for the vulnerability it takes to come to therapy, and for the ways we as human beings learn to survive and adapt to stress. I bring a compassionate curiosity to learn about each person I meet and their experiences, so we can understand together any patterns in your life or relationships that you may want to change. Even as the emotional work of therapy is uncomfortable and painful at times, my hope is for us to create a space where you feel accompanied and believed in along the way. I believe that just as our lives are interwoven in social and cultural context, so too is therapy - my commitment to you is to welcome all parts of yourself, be authentically myself, and remain curious about how our shared or different backgrounds shape our conversations."
Kat Dion, Ph.D.,PMHNP-BC
Staff Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kat Dion is the Staff Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at KPA and is available for medication consultations
Kat works with adults of all ages and backgrounds. Her areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, college student health and working with LGBTQ patients. She also has a particular interest in working with geriatric patients living with chronic medical illnesses, as well as their caregivers. Kat incorporates acceptance and mindfulness in her approach with patients in combination with psychopharmacology.
Kat graduated from Endicott College with her Ph.D. in Nursing. Prior to that she completed her Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Endicott and completed her nurse practitioner clinical rotation at Cambridge Health Alliance in their Victims of Violence Program. She graduated with her Masters of Science degree from Boston College with a specialization as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Prior to beginning to work independently as a nurse practitioner, Kat completed a yearlong interdisciplinary fellowship at the Bedford Massachusetts VA Medical Center. She also served as a staff Nurse Practitioner in the University Health and Counseling Center at Northeastern University.
Kelley Durham, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Durham works with adults providing individual therapy for a variety of concerns, including: Anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Dr. Durham’s therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and flexible based on clients’ needs. She is trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and frequently incorporates mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches into treatment. Dr. Durham also draws from humanistic theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and trauma-specific treatments such as Prolonged Exposure.
Dr. Durham received her B.A. from Boston College and her Ph.D. from Drexel University. She completed her internship at Middlesex Hospital and her post-doctoral fellowship at Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital.
In her free time, Dr. Durham loves solving crossword puzzles, reading mystery novels, and practicing yoga.
“Some of therapy’s power comes from pretty simple things - human connection, empathy, validation. With those building blocks, we’ll create a safe, collaborative space in which we can explore what brings you to therapy. Maybe you feel like difficult thoughts and feelings are holding you back from your most meaningful life. The good news is we don’t actually have to change those thoughts and feelings to help you pursue what really matters to you. Together we can change your relationship to them and help you get unstuck.”
Stephanie Fernandez, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Fernandez provides treatment for adults who face challenges with anxiety/stress, depression, OCD, grief, trauma, and career difficulties. Additionally, she focuses on the mind-body connection and works with individuals who have medical health conditions and co-occurring mental health symptoms, such as problems with sleep, chronic pain, chronic illness, and weight management. To help individuals relate differently to their thoughts and engage in more effective behaviors, Dr. Fernandez utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She also draws on her extensive neuroscience experience in her work, to explain how mental and physical processes interact. She received her Ph.D. from Yale University and has worked in hospital and outpatient settings prior to joining Kendall Psychological Associates.
“Many come to therapy to help break the cycle of emotional distress and accompanying behaviors that simply do not work for them. I believe that each individual has unique strengths and it is through recognizing these attributes that positive behavioral and emotional changes can happen. With empathy and an understanding of who you are, I will collaborate with you to define your goals for change, guide you through the therapeutic process, and help you connect with what you value.”
Mayte Forte, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Forte (she/her) works with young adults and adults. Her areas of interest include: Anxiety, depression, working with individuals along the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, including transgender and gender-expansive identities, difficult life transitions, acculturation/adjustment to immigration, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma.
She is a warm, affirming therapist who brings authenticity to the therapeutic relationship and whose work emphasizes acceptance and exposure-based treatments, integrating ACT, interpersonal psychotherapy, CBT, and prolonged exposure therapy.
Dr. Forte immigrated from Cuba in 1998, is fully bilingual, and provides therapy and in English and Spanish. Her approach is social-justice driven, culturally-responsive, and trauma-informed.
Dr. Forte graduated with her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from University of Massachusetts-Boston. She completed her APA-internship through the Harvard Medical School at the Cambridge Health Alliance and she did her postdoctoral fellowship in LGBTQIA+ health at the DeBakey VA Center in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Forte’s training was all accredited by the American Psychological Association and prioritized evidence-based, culturally-responsive, social-justice work. She also enjoys teaching and providing educational workshops on cultural sensitivity and affirming practices.
Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, hiking, dancing, and practicing yoga and daily meditation.
“Your life is important. By grounding yourself in the present moment, you can decide what matters the most to you and move in that direction, one step at a time. I work collaboratively with patients and focus on creating a safe, open space to support you along your journey of self-awareness, healing, and skill development. Together, we work to move you towards living a meaningful life, while effectively handling the challenges that go with it.”
Jennifer Gowins, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Gowins works with adults across the lifespan as well as with couples. Her areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, early life attachment/trauma, life transitions, relationship concerns, academic issues, and the exploration of creativity and personal identity. She also works with couples to improve communication and intimacy and to explore relationship ruptures and transitions.
Her approach is active, relational, and collaborative, using an integrative but primarily psychoanalytic framework for recognizing patterns in ways of relating to others or in making choices that interfere with functioning and life satisfaction.
Prior to joining KPA, Dr. Gowins was a post-doctoral clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and Cambridge Health Alliance. She earned her doctorate from Northwestern University (Chicago) and completed an APA-accredited internship at Columbia University and New York-Presbyterian Hospital. She has trained in community mental health, inpatient, outpatient hospital care, college counseling, and group practice settings. She is currently a lecturer at Harvard Medical School and a supervisor at both Cambridge Health Alliance and Yeshiva University as well as an advanced fellow at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute (BPSI).
"Sometimes ways of interacting with others and the world that once worked or protected us may begin to inhibit our relationships, work, creativity, and efforts at living in meaningful ways—and may even begin to cause distress. Together, we will work to create a therapy relationship in which to explore the origin of these patterns that also fosters a better understanding of how you relate to yourself, to others, and to the world so that you may begin to live more deliberately, freely, and in connection to your own goals and desires."
Shawntay Grasso, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Grasso works with children (8+), adolescents, and adults struggling with: Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emerging adulthood, trauma, lgbtqia+, identity issues, marginalization stress, and body-image concerns.
Dr. Grasso utilizes both a person-centered and goal-directed approach to assist individuals in meeting their healing potential. She uses evidence-based treatment models and holistic approaches to support individuals in reducing symptoms and regaining a sense of control and mastery in their life.
Dr. Grasso received her doctorate from William James College and did her Postdoctoral Fellowship at LifeStance Health. She has worked with a wide range of mental health conditions in many settings including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, partial hospitalization programs, and primary school settings.
“My therapy approach is largely collaborative and meant to place emphasis on honesty, respect, and empowerment between therapist and client. I attempt to develop a therapeutic relationship with clients based on a shared goal of finding solutions for their mental health concerns. Approaching treatment collaboratively with clients also increases their internal motivation to take action toward helpful change. Ultimately, I make great efforts to assist clients in fostering a sense of peace, balance, and positivity in their life.”
Ben Herzig, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Herzig's primary areas of interest include: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, academic concerns, men's issues, and recovery from trauma. He has a special research interest in issues facing American Muslims. Dr. Herzig graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and received his doctorate from Antioch University New England. He did his internship at the Westborough and Worcester State Hospitals and completed post-doctoral training in community mental health at Advocates, Inc. in Framingham.
“As unique individuals, we should all be appreciated and understood from several angles – social, biological, psychological, cultural, and sometimes spiritual – to get the best sense of who we are as complete people. This requires a focus not just on our problems and challenges, but also on our strengths and resources. These aspects of our identities color the way we give meaning to our past, our future, our relationships, and our struggles. Psychotherapy should be a process that recognizes these factors while creating a safe, caring, and creative atmosphere to provide treatment based on sound theory and research. These are the goals to which I aspire as a therapist. I am especially interested in working with young adults, men, people entering therapy for the first time, and individuals who represent the full cultural diversity of the Boston area.”
Sarah Hines, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Hines specializes in working with older adolescents, emerging adults, and adults. Her specialties include: Anxiety, depression, ADHD, sports performance, academic performance, managing life transitions, loss, infertility, pre- and post-natal challenges, parenting challenges, and relationship issues.
Dr. Hines provides a compassionate and grounding space within which clients can feel safe to explore and change ineffective patterns. Her warm and collaborative approach integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, ACT, and Emotion-Focused Therapy to meet each individual's needs. Her work involves helping clients to develop a cohesive sense of self and create a life worth living through partnership, curiosity, understanding, and perseverance.
Dr. Hines completed her undergraduate work at Rollins College and earned a double master’s in the education field. She worked as an elementary school teacher before pursuing her doctorate in psychology at William James College. She has trained in a variety of contexts including school settings, behavioral medicine clinics, and with veterans. In her spare time, Dr. Hines love to run, cook, and be outdoors with her kids.
"I love helping clients feel empowered to live a life that feels meaningful and connected."
Saeide Kaivani, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Administrative Coordinator
Dr. Kaivani works with adults, and her areas of interest include: Anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, trauma, difficult life transitions, acculturation/adjustment to immigration, creativity blocks, and issues of meaning and personal identity, especially around gender and sexuality. She believes in a therapeutic pluralism in which individually tailored treatments are drawn from several different therapy approaches. She primarily utilizes psychodynamic and existential perspectives with a trauma-informed and relational framework. Dr. Kaivani immigrated from Iran in 2010 and provides therapy in Farsi in addition to English.
Prior to joining KPA, Dr. Kaivani was a postdoctoral clinical fellow at Columbia University. She received her doctorate from William James College and completed her APA-accredited internship at the Brenner Center for Psychological Assessment & Consultation. She has worked with patients across the lifespan in residential, college counseling, and community mental health settings.
Outside of work, she enjoys playing music, reading, and hiking.
“People have an inherent propensity toward growth. I work collaboratively with my patients and prioritize co-creating a safe and comfortable space to facilitate growth and fulfillment. Within a therapeutic relationship based on compassion, engagement, and openness, I support you along your journey of healing and self-awareness. Together, we explore the underlying patterns that contribute to your distress and help you relate to yourself, others, and the world in a more meaningful and authentic way.”
Selin Kepkep, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Kepkep works with adults in individual psychotherapy. Her areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, life transitions such as divorce, marriage, parenthood, coping with illness, grief and loss. Her approach to therapy is relational, person-centered and non-judgmental, integrating a variety of therapeutic approaches including psychodynamic, interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral approaches (ACT, CBT), and mindfulness. Dr. Kepkep believes in a holistic approach to psychotherapy, seeking to understand a person in context of their goals, relationships and physical health.
Dr. Kepkep graduated from the University of California at Berkeley and earned her doctorate from Boston University. She completed post-doctoral training at Massachusetts General. She has worked in a number of clinical settings including community mental health centers and medical/nursing settings.
Outside of work, she can be found hiking in the woods, kayaking, gardening and practicing very amateur photography of nature.
"As a psychotherapist, my goal is to support a client’s sense of resilience and strength, establishing greater self-understanding in the context of self-compassion, allowing more flexibility in approaching life’s challenges going forward. Many come to therapy wanting relief from pain and emotional distress. I work with client’s on increasing mindful awareness, developing a less judgmental attitude toward themselves, and increasing acceptance of emotional states, while learning to create a more meaningful life experience. I feel it is a great honor to act as a partner and witness to someone’s journey of growth and healing."
Danielle Kozanno, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Kozanno provides individual psychotherapy to adults and young adults. Her areas of expertise include: Anxiety, depression, sports performance psychology, identity development, and self-esteem concerns. She also has a keen interest in working with folks who may be experiencing acculturation difficulties, relationship distress, and challenges in higher education.
She uses an integrative approach that incorporates psychodynamic, insight- oriented, and cognitive-behavioral therapeutic perspectives while acknowledging multifaceted and intersecting identities.
She received her doctoral degree from the Wright Institute in Berkeley, CA and has trained in university counseling centers, community clinics, and private practice settings. Dr. Kozanno received her BA in anthropology from Yale University, where she was a two-sport athlete in both ice hockey and softball.
“I strive to provide space for clients to pause, reflect, and gain support. Together, we will work to identify strengths, build resiliency, and resolve conflicts. Engaging in therapy often allows for healing, growth, and change, and it is my hope that I can support you on your journey towards wellness.”
Stephen Lo, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Lo (he/him) works with adults seeking help with a variety of concerns, including: Anxiety, depression, insomnia, caregiver stress, grief, relationship difficulties and life transitions. He also has a particular expertise in working with people living with cancer and other illnesses. He uses evidence-based treatments, including cognitive-behavioral and acceptance-based approaches, while tailoring treatment to meet clients’ unique needs and values.
Originally from the Boston area, Dr. Lo received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from The Ohio State University. He completed his internship at Rush University Medical Center and his postdoctoral fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he received specialized training in health psychology and where he continues to work as a staff psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry.
Dr. Lo is an Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School and is deeply committed to using the most up-to-date research to inform his treatment approach. He conducts his own rigorous research program at MGH, which focuses on supporting individuals coping with cancer.
"I work closely and collaboratively with my patients, guiding them in finding healthy ways to handle life's challenges and supporting them in making the positive changes they've been hoping for. As a researcher, I strive to incorporate the latest knowledge in the field to address mental health concerns with compassion and understanding, tailoring care to each individual's unique needs and values."
Allison Lurie, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Lurie (she/her) provides evidence-based integrative treatment to adults experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, identity-based concerns, chronic low self-esteem, self-compassion challenges, trauma, and stress. She enjoys working with individuals who are exploring and understanding various identities, who have complicated family dynamics, who are navigating stressors in their romantic or interpersonal relationships, and those who are navigating life stressors. Guiding her work is an investigation of identity, power, and privilege both within the therapy room, as well as in her personal life.
Dr. Lurie has trained in both university mental-health settings and general outpatient adult settings. Both of these settings have afforded her experience with individuals of many identities, life experiences, and across the lifespan. She has particular expertise in working with both undergraduate and graduate students as they navigate their educational and life experiences.
Dr. Lurie received her B.A. in psychology from Colorado College and received her Psy.D. from William James College. She completed her APA accredited internship at Suffolk University, and completed her postdoctoral fellowship at Trinity College in Hartford, CT.
Outside of work, she usually has a good book with her, is never far from a cup of coffee, will never turn down a walk in the woods, and is a very amateur gardener.
"I'm a clinician who brings authenticity and whole-heartedness into her therapeutic practice, cultivating a compassionate, non-judgemental and supportive space for clients. My goal for my clients is to cultivate self-compassion, build effective coping strategies to manage life stressors, and ultimately help foster a sense of agency for folks to create the changes they want in their lives."
Amy Mitchell, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Mitchell works with adults, young adults and older adolescents. Her areas of interest include: Relationship problems, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and family issues. Dr. Mitchell most often works in a solution-focused manner while drawing from interpersonal therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and emotion-focused work. She also incorporates stress-reduction and mindfulness techniques to provide clients with tools to implement in their everyday lives. Dr. Mitchell graduated from Loyola University and received her doctorate from Widener University. She has worked at the counseling centers of both Swarthmore and Skidmore colleges.
“I believe it is very important to develop a therapy relationship that feels like a good fit. I provide an empathic and nonjudgmental space for people to talk openly and genuinely about their feelings and concerns at their own pace. My approach to therapy is flexible and collaborative as I work with clients to develop a greater understanding of themselves, their relationships, and the patterns in their life that are contributing to their dissatisfaction or distress. People often seek therapy because they feel their regular coping skills are no longer working. I think it is important to provide people with tools to improve self-care, decrease stress, and feel more in control as they work toward the positive changes they would like to see in their lives. I am experienced in working with difficulties related to college and graduate-student life, life transitions, peer and family relationships, grief, and eating issues.”
Samuel Nathan, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Nathan’s primary areas of interest include: life transitions, men’s issues, trauma depression, anxiety, and academic issues. Dr. Nathan uses an integrative approach, harnessing elements of Emotion Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and CBT to best meet the individual needs of the client.
Dr. Nathan graduated from Franklin and Marshall college and received his doctorate from Antioch University New England. He completed his APA internship at Community Services Institute, Inc. in West Roxbury, MA, and his postdoctoral fellowship was at Purdue University Northwest in Hammond, IN. He has previously worked in college counseling, and remains committed to helping students navigate the complex interplay of life and learning.
Outside his therapy office, Dr. Nathan likes being outdoors, playing soccer, and hiking and camping in the summer, and snowboarding or learning to cross-country ski in the winter. While working from home many clients have heard his dogs, Biggie and Juju, in the background.
“Whether it is a new obstacle that has cropped up or tackling a longer-term concern, I work collaboratively with people to find the moment where things shift, open up, and life feels back in their control. Warmth, empathy, and authenticity are the cornerstones of the relationship I build to facilitate this transformation.”
Jenny O'Brien, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. O’Brien (she/her) works with adults and specializes in treating a range of issues, including: Anxiety disorders, trauma, general stress management, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, assertiveness, and identity development. She has a specific interest in working with individuals who identify along the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and particularly with transgender and non-binary individuals who might be at different stages of transition/coming out. Dr. O’Brien utilizes evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy which are integrated to meet the needs of each individual within a supportive and safe therapeutic space.
Dr. O’Brien received her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from American University, and completed her predoctoral internship at the Durham VA Medical Center, and postdoctoral fellowship at VA Boston. Prior to KPA, she worked at the MIT Mental Health & Counseling Service where she worked with undergraduate and graduate students.
“My approach to therapy is based on a framework of social justice, and combines humanistic principles and skills work. I see individuals that I work with as the experts on themselves, and my role is to meet you where you are, to bring in perspective and skills that can provide tools for life-long wellness. I am active, collaborative, and transparent in my work and find that this helps to create a therapeutic relationship based on equity and empathy.”
Jane Paar, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Paar works with adults and specializes in treating college students, people with adjustment difficulties, individuals in transitional periods of life, and neurodivergent individuals. She is also interested in addressing low self-esteem, hopelessness, difficulties with managing stress, and interpersonal struggles. Dr. Paar is client centered, strengths-based, and relational. She feels a crucial part of treatment success is the match between client and therapist and encourage feedback and questions throughout our work. She is passionate about embracing multicultural perspectives in session, exploring cross-cultural issues, and better understanding of the intersectionality of identity.
Empathy is central to her approach which lies within an integrative network of different theoretical frameworks, which she adjusts to each client coming into the office. She draws upon relational/psychodynamic approaches as well as dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She works to ensure that the counseling space is a warm, welcoming environment that allows for open communication. To achieve healing and growth she provides individuals with interventions focused on establishing safety, personal growth, and empowerment.
Dr. Paar received her Psy.D. in clinical psychology from William James College, completed her pre-doctoral internship at Rhode Island College and her post-doctoral internship at Tufts University.
In her personal time, you will find her reading, walking outside, watching sci-fi shows, and spending time with friends and family.
Briana Reid, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Reid provides individual psychotherapy for adults who are struggling with trauma and PTSD, post-traumatic growth, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adjustment to life transitions, stress management, family caregiver support, issues related to physical health (i.e., smoking cessation, medication adherence, women's health, etc.), and issues related to culture and diversity (i.e., marginalization stress, identity issues, relationship strain, etc.).
Her approach to therapy is relational, person-centered, culturally affirming, trauma-informed, warm with a bit of humor, and she is intentional about developing a meaningful, collaborative relationship with her clients. She aims to help her clients cultivate empowerment with insight, compassion, and new skills.
Dr. Reid uses an integration of different therapeutic approaches, including interpersonal, mindfulness-based, and cognitive-behavioral (CBT, ACT, DBT, etc.). She is also trained in evidence-based treatments for PTSD (i.e., Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Written Exposure Therapy, and Narrative Therapy).
Dr. Reid graduated from Merrimack College and earned her doctorate from William James College with a concentration in Clinical Health Psychology. She has experience treating clients in a variety of settings, including outpatient group practice, outpatient hospital programs, partial hospitalization programs, structured outpatient addiction programs, college counseling centers, and intensive outpatient and residential substance use programs. Dr. Reid received specialized training in providing evidence-based treatments for PTSD through her postdoctoral fellowship at the Albany VA.
“Therapy is a space where we can be vulnerable and explore our experiences without fear of judgment. I’m always rooting for my clients – we develop a genuine, trusting therapeutic relationship throughout our collaborative work together. I believe people are the experts of their own lived experiences, and the addition of my clinical expertise as a therapist can help grow the knowledge, skills, abilities, strengths, and resources they need to thrive, not just survive.”
Wendy Reiser, D.O.
Staff Psychiatrist
Dr. Reiser is a KPA Staff Psychiatrist and she is available for medication consultations.
Dr. Reiser works with adults of all ages and backgrounds. Her areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, college mental health, working with individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, and those facing challenges with acculturation. Dr. Reiser incorporates a combination of therapeutic modalities when providing psychopharmacological treatment including acceptance, mindfulness and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Dr. Reiser received her medical degree from the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Cambridge Health Alliance, a Harvard teaching hospital. She is Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. Prior to joining KPA full-time, she was a Staff Psychiatrist in the Outpatient Department at Cambridge Health Alliance and Clinical Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. She is currently a Teaching Associate, part-time at Harvard Medical School where she continues to teach in the Residency Training Program at Cambridge Health Alliance.
Matt Richardson, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Richardson’s primary areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, problems in personal and romantic relationships, disordered eating, and body image issues. He is particularly interested in working with gay and bisexual men. In therapy, Dr. Richardson uses an integrative therapeutic style, combining interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral and emotionally-focused therapies. Dr. Richardson approaches his work with clients experiencing body image and eating concerns from an intuitive eating, anti-diet, and Health At Every Size (HAES) framework.
Dr. Richardson received his doctorate from the University of Kentucky in Counseling Psychology. He has experience working in college counseling, private practice, community mental health, and inpatient facilities.
“My primary goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel safe, respected, and understood. I frequently check-in with my clients about their experience in session and integrate humor and levity to balance out the tough moments. I see a therapy as challenging us to begin to own our lives and start to unlearn patterns and ways of being that no longer serve us in the present.”
Setareh Rossman, Ph.D.
Pre-Licensed Postdoctoral Fellow
Dr. Rossman supports adults of all ages to build lives of greater meaning and connection. Her primary areas of interest include: Life transitions, family and relationship difficulties (including loneliness, disconnection, and conflict) trauma, bereavement, disordered eating, and self-acceptance.
Dr. Rossman’s approach to therapy is rooted in mindful presence and the cultivation of a genuine, caring relationship. She integrates principles from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and the humanistic, psychospiritual, and relational traditions. When appropriate for clients’ goals, she also delivers brief cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for disordered eating and trauma recovery.
Dr. Rossman graduated from Wesleyan University and received her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Clark University. She has experience delivering therapy in a variety of outpatient settings, including university counseling centers, couple therapy and eating disorder specialty programs, and a Veterans Affairs clinic. She is currently a pre-licensed post-doctoral clinician.
Outside the therapy office, she can usually be found doing creative projects around her home or hosting small gatherings of friends. She also enjoys watching and learning about women’s basketball.
The foundation of our work is a warm, attentive, and nonjudgmental relationship. I value coming to know you as a person. Together, we work to deepen your self-understanding and to cultivate new ways of relating to your experience that help you feel more connected and fulfilled.
“Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” - Jelaluddin Rumi
Shaadee Samimy, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Samimy (she/her) works with adults and young adults. Her areas of interest include: Anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD/trauma, general stress management, and minority stress. Dr. Samimy uses primarily evidence-based treatments, including cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness- based approaches, and flexibly structures treatment based on her clients’ cultural background, values, and learning style. She strives to create a therapeutic space that is safe and affirming, and supports collaboration and mutual learning between herself and her clients.
Dr. Samimy received her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from The Ohio State University. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at VA Boston, where she received specialized training in the treatment of PTSD/trauma. Prior to KPA, she has worked in outpatient hospital and university settings.
“I view therapy as a space to learn new coping skills, derive meaning from your past experiences, and explore your personal goals and values without judgment. For me, this work is grounded in warm, authentic relationships with my clients and a desire to offer a space that affirms their identities and lived experiences.”
Jessica Sussman, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Sussman works with adults, young adults and older adolescents. Her areas of interest include: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship problems, healthy lifestyle and overall wellness. Dr. Sussman incorporates mindfulness, meditation, and body-awareness exercises into her psychotherapy model. She recently completed a 100-hour Yoga for Emotional Health & Healing certification course geared toward incorporating elements of yoga practice and philosophy into psychotherapy treatment for anxiety, depression, and trauma. She also finds value in both cognitive therapy and psychodynamic therapy and integrates these approaches based on the needs of the individual. Dr. Sussman graduated from University of Connecticut and received her doctorate from William James College, and has worked in various settings prior to KPA.
"People find themselves in therapy when their usual ways of coping are no longer helping, and they feel discouraged or out of touch with how to move forward. My goal is to help clients discover new experiences of themselves and the world around them, so that they are better equipped to tackle life stressors and setbacks when they arise. Whether the focus is on something immediate or longer-term, I help clients set reasonable and achievable goals that will move them toward the life they wish to lead. I work from a place of compassion and patience, and I encourage clients to have compassion and patience with themselves and the process."
Kel Thomas, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Thomas (they/them) works with adults with a variety of concerns and has specialties in treating: Trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, existential concerns, stress, and the ongoing trauma associated with experiencing micro-aggressions and otherwise being a part of a marginalized group. Dr. Thomas is a queer, transgender (non-binary and transmasculine), chronically ill, disabled, neuro-divergent and non-monogamous psychologist and they often work with clients from these communities. They also enjoy working with fellow care workers and others who engage in social-justice work.
Dr. Thomas begins therapy from a client-centered perspective and tailors treatment to clients’ unique needs. They draw particularly from mindfulness-based approaches, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Dr. Thomas is highly attuned to the role of trauma in chronic mental and physical health challenges and relational difficulties and they approach work with their clients from a holistic perspective. Dr. Thomas is sex-work and kink affirming and liberation is at the core of all their work.
Dr. Thomas completed their PhD in School Psychology at Indiana University Bloomington and has worked in community mental health, integrated care, university, and private practice settings providing a variety of group, individual, relationship, and community-based services.
“I view therapy as a sacred container capable of fostering genuine connection that enables authentic growth and transformation. I approach clients with acceptance, curiosity, openness, and compassion to foster care, resilience, strength, hope, and overall well-being.”
Jared Utley, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Utley’s primary areas of interest include: generalized and social anxiety, depression, trauma, binge eating, navigating relationship concerns, and family of origin difficulties. He has specific expertise working with groups affected by international adoption, Asian and Asian American experiences along with minority identity development.
Dr. Utley utilizes a client-centered and evidence-based approach that is flexible based on the client’s cultural background and presenting concerns. He incorporates Emotion-Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy frameworks when working with clients.
Dr. Utley received his doctorate from the University of Denver in Counseling Psychology and has worked in college counseling and various outpatient settings prior to joining Kendall Psychological Associates.
"Therapy is a unique opportunity to experience a relationship grounded in openness, curiosity, and kindness. My style emphasizes present moment awareness to identify patterns affecting client's lives. I want to work with clients to explore and examine each person's unique needs, wants, and goals within every therapeutic process. I prioritize customizing the therapeutic experience based on each person’s social, cultural, and familial history. I strive to demonstrate emotional attunement, compassion, and engagement with each client I meet with. I want to encourage clients to be an empowered member of their own change process."
Phoebe Wan, Psy.D.
Staff Psychologist
Dr. Wan has extensive clinical experiences providing psychotherapy for adults who experience eating disorders, anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders and insomnia. She is also passionate about pre and postpartum wellbeing for women.
Dr. Wan utilizes an integrative approach to therapy, addressing both the emotional pain and resiliency of each individual with whom she works. She offers acceptance commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy(DBT) in English, Mandarin and Cantonese.
Prior to joining Kendall Psychological Associates, she served in college counseling centers, psychiatric hospitals, and eating disorder treatment facilities. She obtained her doctoral degree from James Madison University, completed her APA accredited internship at Canvas Health and did her postdoctoral training at The Emily Program in Minnesota.
In her leisure, Dr. Wan enjoys experimental cooking, reading children’s literature and offering parenting support to parents.
“Weaving in both Eastern philosophies and Western practices, I provide a safe and calming space for each individual to explore their needs and emotional pain. My approach is nonjudgmental, gentle, yet also direct. I respect each individual’s pace of growth and work with my clients at their own pace to challenge their fears.”
