Meet Our Providers

Dr. Katherine Elder

PhD, Licensed Psychologist, LPCMH

Dr. Elder has practiced in the behavioral health field for 15 years, serving adults, couples, children, youth and their families. In the fall of 2023, Dr. Elder was admitted into the California Institute of Integral Sciences to complete her certification in psychedelic research and therapies. Areas of specialization include: depression, anxiety, co-occurring disorders, eating disorders, parent-child relationships, ADHD, severe behavioral challenges in children and issues related to teen development. She is certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy as well as a Level 1 Trainer. Dr. Elder provides consultation to organizations and professional training in topics related to personalities, ethics, trauma, substance abuse and working with resistant clients. Dr. Elder has expertise in a variety evidenced-based practices, including training as an EMDR Therapist. She also provides psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, court-ordered assessments such as child custody evaluations, and academic concerns. Dr. Elder is also trained as a parent coordinator for high conflict co-parenting cases. She can also assist with therapeutic reunification cases when there is an estranged parent-child relationship. Dr. Elder is a fitness and health enthusiast, loves children and her golden-doodle Charlie (our therapy dog).

Jim Elder

MS, LCDP, LPCMH

Jim has held a variety of clinical and administrative positions in both the private, public, and education sectors. He has been a trained practitioner in EMDR since 2017 and specializes in the treatment of substance use disorders. Jim has presented as a subject matter expert on numerous national platforms. As a private consultant, Jim was hired by Bermuda’s Department for National Drug Control to help address the island nation’s problems with drugs and crime. Additionally, he has worked with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, Colorado Department of Corrections, Florida Department of Corrections, Delaware Guidance Services, Inc., Prevention of Child Abuse in Delaware, and the Delaware Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health. Areas of specialization include: treatment of substance use disorders, EMDR, re-entry focused community corrections programs and trainings, veterans' trauma and recovery. On weekends Jim enjoys surfing, swimming, and yoga.

Doreen DiLorenzo

Doreen brings over 30 years of experience as an office manager, having previously worked for Morgan Stanley, the New York State Department of Economic Development, and the Beebe Tunnell Cancer Center. Born and raised in New Jersey, she now calls Rehoboth Beach home. Doreen's professional journey is marked by dedication, efficiency, and a commitment to excellence in office management.

Mike Adkins

Mike is an integrative therapist, using a holistic and trauma-informed approach to improve overall well-being. Areas of specialization include: mindfulness practices, the mind-body connection, anxiety, depression, attention-deficit and compulsive disorders, and works primarily with adults to overcome adversity.

Joseph Anastasio

Joseph is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, providing psycho- therapeutic services. His areas of specialization include: EMDR, grief and bereavement, children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities,  alternatives to violence, restorative practices, mediation with couples & families, and issues facing the LBGTQ+ community.

Ashley Barrett

Ashley has been working with children, adolescents, and their families for five years now in special education emotional support classrooms and providing in-home services for children with autism. Through a client-centered approach each session is shaped to fit the needs of the client through the use of CBT, mindfulness, and play therapy. Areas of specialization include: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Impulse Control, and Behavioral Disorders. Ashley is trained in PCIT therapy as well.

Carita Carlyle

Carita has over 30 years experience working in the school setting as a special educator and school counselor, supporting youth, parents and school personnel on a variety of issues. She uses an integrative holistic approach with strong emphasis on self-care and mindfulness training. Her areas of specialization include anxiety, loss and grief, life transitions, communication, and parenting issues.  

She is passionate about helping her clients find their strengths and overcome obstacles that are keeping them from feeling good. She is solution focused and goal oriented. Her goal is to help her clients learn coping skills, new behaviors and thinking patterns and ultimately find joy in their lives.

Anthony Bozzi

As a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor specializing in substance abuse counseling, Anthony works with individuals to develop personalized recovery plans tailored to their specific needs and current stage of recovery—without judgment or shame. He takes a collaborative approach, working with clients individually or as part of a team with their families to help them achieve their goals in a realistic, practical, and effective manner. Through the process, clients gain deeper insights into themselves and their motivations.

Anthony has over 8 years of experience in behavioral health and holds certification as an Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADC) in Delaware. He holds a degree in Drug & Alcohol Counseling, a Master of Science with a concentration in mental health, and a certificate as a trauma and resilience practitioner. He offers both in-person and video therapy for clients throughout Delaware and is committed to making time for those in need of support.

David Bunch

David is a compassionate therapist who incorporates Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) techniques and Motivational Interviewing to early intervention. Areas of specialization include:

working with children and adolescent who have been diagnosed with ADHD, ODD, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Depression, school-based outpatient counseling with children K-12. David believes that our relationships with our emotions shapes our brains, our potential for success and the health of all our relationships.

Dr. Lawrence A. Brain

Dr. Brain has been practicing psychiatry for over forty years. He specializes in ADHD, ADD, mood disorders, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, forensics, and substance abuse. Dr. Brain's expertise includes adult psychiatry and extensive experience working with children and adolescents. While practicing in the Washington DC metropolitan area Dr. Brain was named a Washingtonian Magazine Award winner for being a Top Doctor of Psychiatry.  He is a recognized psychiatrist in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.

Dr. Debra Rich

Dr. Debra Rich, Ph.D. is a dedicated Counseling Psychology professional passionate about empowering clients through solution-focused, evidence-based care. Originally from Northern California, she earned her Bachelor's in Psychology before completing an APA-accredited Doctoral program in Counseling Psychology in Northern Colorado. Her extensive training includes internships at the Child Guidance Center in Fullerton and the Child Psychiatric Unit at UCI Medical Center, followed by a pivotal role on an Adult Psychiatric Unit near Stanford University. With a diverse career spanning multiple states—including California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts—Debra has enriched her practice through teaching, government, and both for-profit and non-profit work. At Delaware Psychological Services, she now serves individuals of all ages, couples, families, and groups, specializing in grief, loss, depression, autism spectrum challenges, and LGBTQ+ concerns.

Sheryl Bender

Sheryl Bender is a seasoned professional with over 31 years of experience in education and counseling. Originally from New Jersey, she began her career as a Special Education teacher before transitioning to School Counseling at both the elementary and high school levels. Since becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH) in 2017, Sheryl has dedicated herself to working with children, adolescents, and families in both New Jersey and Delaware.

Sheryl's approach is centered on meeting children and families where they are, providing support, fostering positive change, and instilling hope for a brighter future. In addition to her therapeutic work in a local school, she volunteers with the CASA program, advocating for children in foster care. Sheryl also supervises five therapists at DPS, guiding them as they work toward licensure.

Jennifer Costello

Jennifer enjoys helping adults with the challenges that arise as they seek their own identity and make their way through life stages. She also enjoys working with people in relationships and families. Areas of specialization: depression, grief, anxiety, communication, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, relationship problems, self-esteem and more. Jenn believes the most important part of therapy is creating an atmosphere where her client feels unconditionally cared for, accepted without judgement, understood, and safe to share their innermost struggles. She commonly utilizes CBT and Rogerian principles, but is constantly learning about new techniques and theories.

Chelsea Mota

Chelsea is an integrative therapist, utilizing a person centered and trauma informed lens to create treatment plans that are tailored to each individual and family’s needs.  Chelsea has experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and their families.  Areas of specialization: growth and development, ADHD and impulsivity, big life transitions, co-parenting, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Chelsea is a trained PCIT clinician and has a passion for working with parents of young children to develop strong parent child relationships and increase confidence in their abilities to support their children through behavioral challenges.  Chelsea is also a board-certified music therapist and enjoys using music to aid in the development of mindfulness practices and self-exploration. 

Dionne Purnell

Dionne has over 20 years of experience working in the early childhood field with children and their families. For the past 6 years, Dionne has worked in an intensive outpatient unit with children and families, as well as a crisis unit. Areas of specialization: compassionate, strength based, trauma-informed counseling while embracing ESFT and CBT. Dionne’s approach is warm, encouraging, collaborative, and without judgement. 

Dionne provides a listening ear while assisting you with finding the right tools for you on life’s journey.

Shaniqua Johnson-Pierce

Shaniqua takes great interest in utilizing the performing arts to support healing complex trauma. She enjoys providing counseling services to adults, children, couples, and families.

Areas of specialization: grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, outpatient substance abuse programs, a holistic approach to treatment that focuses on mindfulness, trauma informed care, and narrative therapy.

Paula Kovarcik

Paula, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor; a board-certified CADC Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a certified MAC Master addiction counselor, certified S.T.E.P Systematic Training for Effective Parenting instructor.

She works with individual clients 16 years old and up who are struggling with stressful life situations, Grief, LQBTQ+ concerns, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Restrictive Eating Disorder, Agoraphobia, life transitions to include, coping with chronic illness, changing jobs, moving to a new area, and new parent challenges, relationship difficulties, financial stressors, step parenting challenges, setting age-appropriate expectations, while offering parenting tools using logical and natural consequences, assisting a family member or partner who has a relationship with someone diagnosed with a personality disorder.

She has enjoyed meditation for over 15 years, spending time with family, friends, and pets, swimming at Rehoboth YMCA, learning more about neuropsychology and Buddhism, and is a member of UUSD, Unitarian Universalist of Southern Delaware.

When working with clients she utilizes eclectic modalities. Including Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology, Psychoeducation, Therapeutic Support, and her own varied life experiences.

Paula is non-judgmental, down to earth professional, who makes every effort for her client to feel welcome and accepted.

Dr. Lindsay Kurtz

Dr. Kurtz is a graduate from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Prior to returning to school for her doctorate, she worked as a school psychologist, which has provided her with extensive experience conducting psychoeducational assessments. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in school settings, private practice, and inpatient care facilities. She works hard to build therapeutic rapport with her clients and provide a relaxed and safe environment. She works with her clients to determine the best experience and treatment.

Brittany Malone

Brittany's goal is to work collaboratively with clients to address their specific needs and create a supportive environment for facilitating change. She utilizes a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT). When I work with parents, whether they be expectant, new, grieving, or experienced, my goal is to create a safe space to process both the joys and stressors of parenthood in a nonjudgmental setting.  Area of specialization: Perinatal Mood Disorders, New Parents, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Body Dysmorphia, Coping Skills, Adjustment Issues, Life Transitions, Ages 13+

Marc Messner

I believe clients can overcome life’s challenges by building connections with others and drawing from their unique experiences. My integrated therapeutic approach combines various theories to create personalized interventions.

My style is empathetic, compassionate, and sometimes humorous, providing a safe space for clients to share their innermost thoughts without fear of judgment. I collaborate with clients to empower them in managing challenges and finding growth through distress. I have experience working with individuals of all ages and facilitating groups in schools, workshops, and with incarcerated individuals, specializing in substance use.

I hold dual Master's degrees in Social Work and Education from Widener University, with a certification in Trauma Practice, allowing me to integrate a trauma-informed perspective. Originally from Philadelphia and recently returned from Texas, I enjoy kayaking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Carmen Price

Carmen's approach is integrative and holistic, working from a Trauma-Informed lens and drawing from CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment and Family Systems Theories while incorporating mindfulness and meditation.  Trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, PCIT, Neuropsychotherapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) she serves adults, youth, children, couples, families, and LGBTQ. Areas of specialization:  mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, sexual dysfunction, anger and stress management, substance use, co-occurring disorders, and grief.  Being client-centered,  each therapy session is directly tailored to that individual client, as she feels there is no “one size fits all” therapeutic model.

Dr. Kwanda N. Harris

Dr. Kwanda N. Harris has been providing trauma-informed, person-centered treatment for 13 years. Dr. Harris is dedicated to offering support to individuals who are marginalized due to experiences with psychosis, mood disorders/depression, anxiety/trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, compulsive sexual behaviors, and overwhelming life events. She is also passionate about destigmatizing mental health treatment within various communities. Dr. Harris' mission is to provide effective treatment to alleviate significant mental health symptoms, and to help identify the triggers of certain thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. 

Meredith Golde

Meredith has worked with culturally diverse populations of all ages. Areas of specialization include: trauma; abuse and neglect; anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders; parenting and caregiver issues; substance abuse and harm reduction; women’s issues and reproductive health; self-esteem; adjustment and coping with change and/or with chronic and terminal illness; grief and loss; stress management; managing challenges of neurodiversity. Her approach is holistic, integrative, multicultural, person-centered and strengths-based. Meredith uses CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT tapping, motivational interviewing, mindfulness/guided imagery, experiential, polyvagal, psychodynamic, and practical solution-focused therapies. She honors the interconnection of mind-body-spirit within the context of each person’s unique situation, environment, and history.

Reba Rager

Reba has worked in the behavioral health field for over ten years. She believes in a person-centered approach to therapy and that everyone has a right to wellness. Reba has a passion for working with our geriatric population and assisting them with navigating the stress and anxiety that can come with the transitions of aging.  Areas of specialization: Anxiety, depression, bereavement and grief, caregiver burnout, chronic illness, self-esteem, and mindfulness.

Jessica Wood

Jessica is a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH) and National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC). She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Bachelor of Arts Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Jessica has more than 5 years of experience working in various social service and mental health settings, including domestic violence crisis hotlines, homeless shelters, community mental health outreach, and office-based treatment. She enjoys working with teens and adults both in person and on teletherapy. Jessica approaches treatment from social justice and trauma-informed frameworks using holistic modalities such as mindfulness and EMDR. She believes that client empowerment and collaboration are important pieces in the journey to wellness.

Peter Musu

Peter is an Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Dr. Ellen Marshall

Dr. Ellen Marshall has been counseling under supervision for over 20 years and is counseling at DPS under the supervision of Dr. Katherine Elder for future licensure; working with both children and adults. Dr. Marshall is a Board-Certified Expert in Traumatic Stress specializing in trauma, PTSD, and cumulative trauma within emergency services such as police, firefighters, and EMT workers. Dr. Marshall is also a certified Victim Services Specialist and Domestic Violence Specialist who assists victims of crime with mental health concerns and navigating the criminal justice system. She is a published author on cumulative trauma and trains law enforcement agencies across the country including the FBI National Academy. Before coming to DPS, Dr. Marshall was a professor at local colleges and universities for over 20 years teaching counseling and criminal justice courses. In addition, she has career experience as an LEO in Delaware. Dr. Marshall uses an eclectic approach to counseling, utilizing the best approach for each client. Dr. Marshall will also use a Biblical approach to counseling if you wish to incorporate faith in your sessions. She believes you are the expert in your life, and approaches counseling as a ‘team’ effort offering support, empathy, education, and gentle guidance. Dr. Marshall loves baking and gardening and is partnered with her new therapy dog in training, Gypsy Rose (a small Shichon or “teddy bear” puppy).

Dawn Ploucher

Dawn's journey to becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) began with rigorous academic training. She graduated with distinction from Southern New Hampshire University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and subsequently completed a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health from Frontier Nursing University. Driven by a profound desire to effect meaningful change, she has dedicated over 23 years to the nursing profession, focusing on the mental and emotional well-being of my patients.

Dawn's mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive psychiatric care that not only addresses mental health issues but also empowers individuals on their path to mental wellness. She is committed to implementing evidence-based, holistic, gender-affirming, and person-centered practices in care. By treating the whole person—considering their symptoms, unique needs, preferences, and values— Dawn aims to foster an environment where each individual can feel secure and supported throughout their mental health journey. This holistic approach ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care, tailored to their specific circumstances and aimed at achieving optimal health outcomes.

Katelin Talbert

Katelin graduated at the top of her class from South University in Savannah, Georgia, and has been practicing for the past four years. She has spent the last two years specializing in psychiatry, treating adults, children, and adolescents, with a primary focus on child and adolescent psychiatry at Delaware Psychological Services.
Areas of specialization include: treating ADHD, mood and psychotic disorders, PTSD, behavioral disorders, perinatal psychiatric disorders, anxiety, and depression. Katelin is dedicated to ongoing education in psychotherapy techniques such as CBT and mindfulness practices, with a special interest in somatic therapy. She also continues to explore holistic and integrative treatment modalities, including diet, exercise, supplementation, and herbal remedies.
Katelin grew up on the Delmarva Peninsula, attending Worcester Preparatory School and then Salisbury University, graduating with Magna Cum Laude honors. She was a member of the 2x National Champions Women’s Lacrosse team at SU and continues to volunteer her time as a coach there. She enjoys the beach and caring for her feline friend, Natalia.

Stephanie Willin

Stephanie is a provider with over 8 years of experience in the field. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings including both private and public sectors. Stephanie’s areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, mindfulness practices, and co-occurring disorders. 

Patricia Cobb

Patricia Cobb is a compassionate, effective therapist specializing in young adults (18+), trauma, and resilience. Patricia has had a strong career focusing on young people between the ages of 18–30+ navigating mild to moderate depression, trauma, and life transitions. With a master’s degree in psychology Patricia brings over 25 years of experience with advanced study in trauma specific treatments including being a graduate of Harvard Medical School Global Mental Health Trauma and Recovery Program.  Whether navigating PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, or relationship challenges, she is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-informed care that fosters a sense of safety, recovery and personal growth with her clients, As s Certified Brainspotting Practitioner, Patricia integrates cutting-edge neurobiological approaches to trauma healing. 

Beyond individual therapy, Patricia is also the co-founder of a trauma-responsive, resilience-based model designed specifically to support young adults in their journey toward emotional health and wellbeing. With a warm, collaborative approach, she supports clients to heal from past wounds, and live a life aligned with their values and strengths. 

Denise Gallagher

Denise has a Masters in Human Development, Holistic Counseling and Psychology from Salve Regina University in Newport, RI. Denise has over 20 years of practical experience working in the Mental Health Field with children, adolescents and adults, in numerous therapy modalities and settings tailored to each individual client. Denise believes in practicing the balance of the whole person regardless of their age in mind, body and spirit to achieve an individual’s maximum potential for a successful, healthy, harmonious life. Denise offers a safe space to her clients and their families in a non-judgmental manner. Denise is a published author educating parents on mental health diagnoses and food allergies in children. Denise looks forward to working together to achieve maximum health and happiness for you and your family. Denise follows the model that we all deserve support and guidance in achieving our own individual goals in life!

Darren Harvey

Darren has over 20 years of experience working with individuals struggling with severe and persistent mental illness, as well as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders. He is dedicated to meeting individuals where they are in order to provide the most personalized and effective care.

Darren utilizes Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals develop the skills necessary to address the challenges they face in their lives. His approach emphasizes building meaningful connections and offering solutions that can make a lasting impact. His motto, "I believe in making a difference one person at a time," reflects his commitment to truly understanding and supporting each person he works with.

Hannah Whiddon

Hannah meets her client’s where they are–building a therapeutic relationship through a strength-based and trauma-informed lens. Each client’s therapy will be an integrative and holistic approach, specific to each person’s needs. Her therapeutic approach draws from CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment and Family Systems Theories while incorporating mindfulness, somatic and insight-oriented therapy. She serves adults, youths, and families, of all identities.

Areas of specialization include:

 mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, C-PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum, personality disorders, sexual dysfunction, anger and stress management, co-occurring disorders, and grief. Each client that walks into her office is met with compassion, respect and without judgment–life can be hard and we all need support.

Ashley Piper

Ashley is a compassionate and skilled Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with eight years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, including individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community.

Ashley provides a supportive, client-centered space for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, PTSD, grief, impulse control, behavioral concerns, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. She utilizes evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, play therapy, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each client.

Ashley holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Passionate about fostering resilience and emotional well-being, she empowers clients to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and self-awareness.

When not in session, Ashley can be found crocheting her latest project or spending time at home with her cats.

Kathleen Fluharty

Kathleen combines multiple therapeutic modalities to meet clients where they are, focusing on identifying the root causes of symptoms. She believes our bodies can reveal parts of our stories that we may not consciously remember. With a strong understanding of Family System Trauma, Kathleen works with individuals to address issues like anxiety, depression, addictions, and other behaviors that disrupt relationships. She is passionate about helping couples and leads group sessions to resolve conflict and foster authentic vulnerability.

Kathleen holds a BS in Human Services from Northwestern University (1985), an MS in Business Management from The College of New Jersey (1987), and an MA in Counseling from Concordia University (2018). She is a Certified Mental Health Counselor (NBCC), Certified Brain Health Coach (Amen University), Certified Family System Trauma Coach, Certified Partner Coach Specialist, and is APSATs trained in Betrayal Trauma.

Charlie

Charlie enjoys working with all of our clients, but especially children and adolescents. He can often be found in Dr. Katie Elder's office, or will greet you at the door with a big wag of his tail. He loves meeting new people and understands his obligation of complete confidentiality. He is currently taking on new patients, with preference to those who give him treats.

Luke

Luke is a rescue dog from the Delaware Humane Association. On work days, he wears his bow tie with pride, knowing that he has important work to do. Luke loves to greet everyone in the DPS waiting room - he can’t be tricked into “going to work” until he’s approached every single person he sees. Clients love his funny expressions and gentle nature. They enjoy giving him little massages and letting him rest a paw or his head on them as they talk.

Gypsy

Gypsy loves people! She is very friendly and enjoys cuddling up next to clients. She offers calming and loving unconditional support to all who ask. She will eagerly bring you a toy or curl up next to you while in session.