Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) 

Lauren Disner brings her extensive background as a therapist, clinical leader, entrepreneur, educator and treatment innovator to Potomac at Hobble Creek. From her early work in direct care responsibilities in an adolescent treatment program to her more recent leadership of a successful group practice and an adult recovery center, Lauren is at home working with families with challenges. Lauren’s work and interest areas, both personal and professional, have allowed her to connect powerfully with clients while utilizing a rich set of clinical skills, including DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, family systems approaches, addiction recovery strategies and focused trauma work. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Lauren’s life outside of work encompasses a wonderful multi-cultural family, musicianship, a regular mindfulness practice and a variety of other interests. Lauren and her husband Carlos are parents to four kids. She and her family enjoy learning new skills in handicrafts and homesteading, engaging in a variety of sports such as baseball and soccer, practicing dance, reading popular fantasy series books aloud, and watching historical fiction dramas.

Dr. Amanda N. Nicholson, Ph.D. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Sex Therapy. Dr. Amanda specializes in individual, family therapy, coaching, and couple’s therapy. Her areas of specialty include sexuality, religion, relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, and depression. Dr. Amanda received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Behavior Analysis with a minor in Africana Studies from Savannah State University, Master of Family Therapy from Mercer University, Master of Education in Human Sexuality Studies with a concentration in Sex Therapy from Widener University, and Doctor of Philosophy in Human Sexuality Studies with a concentration in Sex Therapy from Widener University. Dr. Amanda is a trauma informed therapist who is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Having a family theory informed approached Dr. Amanda enjoys using Narrative, Emotional Focused, and Structural therapies in her therapeutic approach while collaborating with her students and families about their care. Dr. Amanda is also a college instructor with five years of teaching experience in the University System of Georgia.

In her free time Dr. Amanda enjoys reading books that whisk her imagination off to new places, practicing yoga, eating food good for the soul, watching movies that make her laugh until she cries and enjoying life to the fullest.

Terra Tuono-Shell is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Maryland and Virginia and a Certified Counselor Supervisor.  She earned a Bachelor of Art’s Degree in Psychology from University of Maryland, Baltimore County, a Master of Arts Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from University of Maryland, College Park, and a Master of Arts Degree in Forensic Psychology from Marymount University. Terra started her career specializing in assisting adolescents with learning disabilities to navigate Individual Education Plan development and acquiring accommodations in education and work environments. Throughout her career, Terra gained a variety of work experience with adolescents and adults in outpatient mental health, residential treatment, outpatient substance abuse, Federal government, non-profit, and education settings.  Prior to joining Embark Behavioral Health, Terra worked in private practice providing treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and family discord. Terra Tuono-Shell has extensive experience in critical incident response, suicide prevention/intervention and curriculum development that she gained while working for a Federal law enforcement agency.  Overall, Terra has spent her entire career providing assistance for adolescents and adults with the hope they will be able to have a balanced life, connected relationships, and optimal performance in any setting.

Yun Jung Lee, M.A., ATR-BC, LPC is Registered & Board-Certified Art Psychotherapist, Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified adoption therapist.

She graduated from MCP Hanemann University (now Drexel University) with Master’s of Creative Arts in Therapy.  She has over 20 years of clinical experience working with various populations.  Prior to joining Embark, she worked as a Youth Partial Care program director at a community mental health agency in South Jersey.

In her practice she incorporates traditional verbal therapy and various nonverbal methods in treatment to meet each individual’s unique needs and to promote healthy and constructive expression.  She supports individuals struggling with life transitions such as immigration and cultural adjustment, grief and loss, general mental health concerns, depression, anxiety, and trauma issue.  Ms. Lee is also a bi-lingual and bi-cultural therapist (Korean) who is certified in Adoption Therapy to work with members of the adoption triad.

Jessica Moore is one of the primary therapists at Embark Behavioral Health Main Line. Jessica graduated Temple University with a MSW Degree in Social Work, with a clinical specialization in children and families. Jessica has provided family and individual therapy, substance abuse, and mental health services to a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, and adults. She has worked in many different clinical settings, including dual diagnosis at an acute psychiatric hospital, residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and within the community. Jessica has always had a passion for helping others and continues to remain an advocate and support for individuals and communities. Through the diversity of her professional career as well as personal life experiences, Jessica has continued to grow her clinical skill set and promote strength-based services for all individuals. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, volunteering within her local community, and exploring new hiking trails.

Russ Yost is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, having received the Master of Counseling degree from ASU in 1981. He has worked in behavioral health for over 30 years. Russ is trained in EMDR, a trauma resolution therapy, and provides family and individual counseling. Russ is married with two adult children, and enjoys reading and choral singing.

Throughout the last decade, Emily has used her skills as an LSW to provide services to individuals helping them overcome both mental health and substance abuse issues. Emily utilizes a combination of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, SMART Recovery, and Motivational Interviewing while using a person centered approach to meet each individual where they are at clinically. Emily has experience working in both an inpatient and outpatient setting allowing her to understand the continuum of treatment. Emily uses a caring and empathetic approach with each client to assist them in building rapport and developing a safe trauma informed space for them to begin processing their trauma.

Emily received both her BSW and MSW from Kutztown University. Emily is also a proud fur mom to her 3 dogs and 2 cats, one of which she is training to be a Therapy Dog. In her free time, Emily enjoy spending time outdoors and playing in a local soccer league.

Brittany Woodward is an Associate Marriage and Family therapist (AMFT# 117461) who graduated from Santa Clara University with a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology. Brittany was born and raised in the San Jose area and obtained her Bachelors degree in Psychology from Santa Clara University as well (Go Broncos). Brittany has worked across multiple mental health settings from Outpatient treatment, Intensive Outpatient treatment, Partial Hospitalization and School Based programs. Brittany has been able to work with children, youth and adults dealing with issues of substance use, depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma and psychotic symptoms. Brittany utilizes a client centered approach in which she meets children, teens and adults where there are at and focuses on the needs the goals that they have set for themselves. She also has training in the evidence-based therapies of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). She utilizes these forms of therapy to help meet the individualized treatment goals and develop ways to manage, cope and sustain positive changes found throughout the therapeutic process. Brittany is passionate in working with children and youth, which has guided and driven her career path in the field of Behavioral/Mental Health. She aims at helping children find their happiness, passions, resources and abilities to conquer the challenges that life may throw their way. Outside of work you can find Brittany walking her two Siberian Huskies around the Campbell area or spending time with family and friends.

Kathaleena (Kathy) Thirtle, LMFT AT gained practical and administrative experience working with different community agencies across LA and Orange County, with a focus on youth, trauma, and serving the underserved. She received her double Bachelors of Arts in Philosophy and Fine Art with concentration on Women’s Studies from the University of California Riverside. During her time working towards her Bachelor’s degrees Kathy gained experience working with children and families in multiple capacities such as tutoring, case management, educational support, and mentorship. From there, Kathy ventured on to receive her master’s degree of Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University. Since that time Kathy devoted her passion to using CBT, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, TF-CBT, and Narrative Methods working with families and youth affected by trauma, the foster/adoption system, and crisis. Kathy became certified as an Art Therapist is 2021 and became licensed as an LMFT in 2022. She is beyond humbled and eager to continue her work in the field with Embark as an advocate and partner for all those that seek help. Outside of work Kathy is a coffee and foodie enthusiast, devoted patron and practitioner of all things artsy, adores her two cats and pup, and can usually be found basking in one-on-one time with friends and family or listening to music while reading a good book (preferably on a rainy day!).

Dr. Eri Nakagami, Ph.D., LCSW is the Clinical Director of Embark Behavioral Health West LA Outpatient Clinic. She received her BA in sociology from Vassar College and her MSW and Ph.D. from USC. Eri has an extensive clinical practice experience with children, adolescents, adults, and families, as well as a long history of teaching, supervising, training, and consulting masters and licensed clinicians. She is dedicated to treating everyone with empathy, dignity, and respect and will ensure that the services provided maintain treatment integrity and follows the Embark Treatment Approach. When Eri is not at work, she loves to spend time with family and friends, workout, cook, bake, and explore familiar and new places.

Sydney Bartel is a licensed professional counselor candidate. Sydney spent her childhood growing up on the Jersey Shore before moving to Washington, D.C. for college. After receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Sydney moved to Denver to pursue her master’s in counseling psychology at the University of Denver. Although Sydney is an East Coast native, Colorado quickly became one of her favorite places and she decided to stay following her graduation. Sydney has worked as a therapist and mental health counselor in day treatment, outpatient, and crisis levels of care. She has experience in individual counseling, family counseling, group counseling, and crisis intervention and prevention. Sydney utilizes a trauma-focused, strength-based approach when working with clients, and she is passionate about helping her clients discover their strengths in therapy and reach their fullest potential. Sydney is very excited to continue her professional growth at Embark and join the Embark team. When Sydney is not working, she enjoys spending time at her martial arts gym, connecting with friends and family, reading, or binge watching her favorite TV shows.

Laura McKellin, MA, R-DMT, E-RYT500 is a dance movement therapist at our Embark Behavioral Health West LA Outpatient clinic. She earned her BA in psychology from University of Colorado, Boulder and MA in Somatic Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in dance movement therapy from Naropa University. Laura’s clinical background consists of working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, individuals experiencing early-episode psychosis, and military veterans experiencing PTSD. She specializes in the psychotherapeutic use of movement and body-based (somatic) interventions to foster social, emotional, and psychological health and development. Laura’s authentic, nonjudgmental, and compassionate presence creates a safe space for self exploration, integration, and healing. Laura believes that everyone has the inherent ability to move towards wholeness and be happy, healthy, and successful. Laura’s passions outside of work include being in nature, meditation, traveling, cooking, live music, animals, yoga, and enjoying time with family and friends.

Adriana Golshan, M.S., R-DMT, is a Dance/Movement Therapist at Embark with a passion for helping people reach their full potential. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in psychology and dance from Wesleyan University and her Master’s degree in dance/movement therapy from Sarah Lawrence College. With a strong background in working with children and young adults in palliative care with medically complex illnesses, children and young adults with autism, and adolescents and adults with eating disorders, Adriana brings a wealth of expertise to her work. Adriana’s therapeutic approach is centered on the belief that every person is a unique, multi-dimensional individual with a rich internal world. She creates a supportive and inclusive environment in which her clients can explore their deepest selves and discover new avenues for growth and healing. Her person-centered, humanistic approach prioritizes collaboration and creativity, and she tailors each therapeutic experience to meet the unique needs and goals of her clients. In her free time, Adriana enjoys spending quality time with her family, cooking and baking, and taking her dog, Skyy, for walks in the park. ”

Jenilyn is a Licensed professional counselor, specializing in adolescent and family treatment. She is a creative and innovative thinker with a passion for connection and collaboration. Jenilyn loves working with family systems and has over 5 years of experience working in behavioral health. Most of her career has been spent serving Northern Colorado as an intensive, in-home family therapist, working with underserved populations. She is driven to support and facilitate positive outcomes for her clients and their families. Jenilyn believes in strength-based and evidenced based practices and has extensive experience in the facilitation of these practices. Jenilyn believes that the therapeutic relationship is one that is mutually beneficial and a space where she can help motivate her clients to reach their full potential. Jenilyn enjoys hiking in the Rocky Mountains, camping and traveling to the beach with her family.

Jackie Zerbe, LCSW is a therapist at the Embark Behavioral Health West LA Outpatient Clinic. She received her BSW from Indiana University and her MSW from Loyola University Chicago. Jackie has years of experience working clinically with families and individuals. She also has experience supervising both staff and MSW interns. Jackie strives to create a non-judgmental, safe space for her clients where they can feel understood and supported. In her free time, Jackie enjoys spending time with friends, trying out new hobbies, cooking, and taking her dog to the park.

Jennifer McClure is a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Arizona. Originally from Cleveland, Jennifer attended Purdue University and The Family Institute at Northwestern before relocating to Phoenix in 2016. Jennifer helps individuals, couples, and families interrupt negative interactions and maladaptive coping strategies. Treatment produces improved communication, empathy, and accountability within families.

Jennifer’s post-graduate work included research and contributing to scholarly articles on benefits of the therapeutic relationship, effective interventions for eating disorders, and health disparities among minorities. In addition, she specializes in work with families seeking healing from trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, and abuse.

As a trainer, researcher, and clinician Jennifer uses trauma informed care to continually assess client needs and provide evidence-based interventions. Whether working with an individual or an entire family system, treatment promotes healthy autonomy, boundaries, emotion regulation, and safety. Jennifer primarily uses family systems theory, CBT, DBT, EFT, and somatic experience to improve clients’ perspectives and produce desired changes.

Jennifer is an avid horseback rider, runner, animal enthusiast, and volunteer. She is passionate about making therapy feel safe, uplifting, and effective so that it adds joy and fruitfulness to the lives of her clients.

Optional:
In addition, if you are seeking faith based treatment, she can accommodate and support your goals.
Jennifer will also be available to provide EMDR therapy to clients in May of 2023.

Selene is a Primary Therapist at our Embark Behavioral Health Woodland Hills Outpatient Clinic. In 2018 she received her B.A. Degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge and in 2021 her M.S. in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Lutheran University. During her graduate program she specialized in Attachment Theory which she has used to guide her individual and family work. Selene has comprehensive knowledge in working with individuals and their families using evidenced based modalities such as CBT, TF-CBT and DBT. Selene came from a background working in outpatient, private and residential care settings where she has gained experience in working with individuals with a wide range of presenting concerns, ages, and cultural experiences. Her goal is to provide a client entered and humanistic based approach to help guide clients into envisioning and building a life worth living. In her free time, Selene, enjoys discovering new restaurants, traveling, taking on DIY projects and engaging in acts of self-care.