Outpatient Team

Sarah McLillard, LCSW is the Clinical Director for Outpatient Services.

“I am not perfect. I am messy and forgetful, and my kids sometimes wear dirty clothes. I am a mother, wife, friend, and therapist. I believe fully in the inherent enoughness of each individual I work with and that you have everything you already need to live your fullest life. I feel blessed by those that allow me to be a part of their journey. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I got my undergraduate and graduate degrees at VCU. I have been working for over 15 years in a variety of mental health settings including day treatment, residential, in home, and outpatient. I work with all ages and I have been trained in CBT, EMDR, EFFT, CFTTP, and Mindfulness based interventions.  I love to incorporate play, art, yoga, and meditation in my practice. I believe that mental health is not just about the mind, but the connection of the whole body and spirit”

Leia Snow McLillard- Therapy Dog Extraordinaire works with Sarah McLillard by client request.

Paige Call, BSW is the Program Manager for Outpatient Services.

“I am a wife, dog mom, friend and manager of a one-of-a-kind outpatient program. I am passionate about being a part of a practice that focuses on the client’s mental health and overall wellness. I have been in the mental health arena for over 10 years. I have my bachelor’s in social work from Longwood University and have worked in the customer service field for many years. I feel every client’s journey begins with a single step and it’s a blessing to be able to help empower them to find their own path to wellness”

Mason Watkins, LPC is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

“I am a therapist, a cat lover, a nerd, a friend, and a writer. The therapist part is probably why you are reading this, so I should also mention that I am a pretty good listener and a Licensed Professional Counselor. I want to hear your story, your concerns, your successes and strengths, and then explore how we can work together to find healing. I graduated from Penn State University and worked as a therapist in the central Pennsylvania region for several years before moving back home to Richmond in 2019. In therapy, I enjoy employing a variety of approaches, but what you can typically expect from me is a thorough and curious exploration of your unique mental health concerns. I utilize Psychodynamic models to encourage insights about patterns across your lifespan, Cognitive-behavioral models to highlight how thinking patterns and beliefs influence your perspectives, and pursue change through Motivational Interviewing, client-centered, and trauma-informed interventions. You don’t have to know exactly how or what you want to change, only that change is desired. If healing is a marathon, let’s work together to figure out what those first few steps might look like.”

Darla Renshaw, LPC, LMFT is an Equine Therapist for Outpatient Services

“I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I hold a MS in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in marriage, couples, and family counseling, and a post graduate concentration in Equine-Assisted Mental Health (EAMH) from Prescott College, AZ. In addition, I am an Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) trauma-informed therapist with 6 plus years of experience. I earned a Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, MD, and I am a certified Master Community Health Education Specialist (MCHES). I have lived abroad and worked in Community-based Primary Health Care for 18 years and speak four languages. I own Winds of Change Wellness, LLC ,and partner with a 9 member herd at Wind Horse Ranch, a 10-acre horse farm located in Powhatan County, VA. I offer 9 years of experience providing a multi-cultural, integrative approach to psychotherapeutic alliances. I utilize mental, emotional, somatic, sacred, and expressive arts modalities for client care and support, especially during times of life adjustment challenges and opportunities for healing, learning, growth, and development. To learn more about what the “Human-Equine Alliance Relational Transformation (HEART)” program offers, please see the EAMH Program information on our website.”

Stephanie Wilson, LMFT is a Therapist and Clinical Supervisor for Outpatient Services.

“I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 12 years’ experience in the social services industry, serving children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I hold a strong background in helping children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families. I then uncovered a passion for Adlerian Psychology through my training in Marriage and Family Therapy. A combination of my experiences and academic training has guided me towards a strong focus on improving the parent-child relationship. As an Adlerian-driven therapist I consider you a unique individual unlike anyone else and my eclectic framework reflects this through interventions designed specifically to help you identify, understand, and transform mistaken beliefs to better support your true quality of life as recognized through the therapy process. I am committed to building a therapeutic relationship between you, as my client and myself that offers comfort, connection, and sense of freedom to share sensitive details about your life. Such a level of vulnerability brings with its recognition and awareness of our true selves, the core of your individuality and the foundations that have led to your current thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. I will work alongside you to help bring to light your inherent strengths, accompany you on your healing journey, and empower you with the tools you need to be successful.”

“Overcoming difficulties leads to courage, self-respect, and knowing yourself”.

Eric Mansfield, LCSW is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

“I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have to say I did not necessarily choose my career as a mental health professional; it chose me through my own life experiences. As a result, I am a good listener, empathetic, a teacher, a guide, and a coach. I completed my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. I have experience in various clinical settings such as Outpatient services, Intensive In-Home, Therapeutic Day Treatment, and Crisis Intervention. I work primarily with adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, phobias, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and more. As my client, I focus on helping you identify and draw from your own strengths perspective to help you through the healing process. I believe in teaching you about your own unique mental health issues and helping you develop a toolbox of skills to manage your symptoms through the course of your everyday life experiences to improve your overall quality of life. I am experienced in the following modalities: psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, person centered theory, solution focused brief therapy, family systems theories, trauma informed therapy, EMDR and the rewind technique for trauma processing, mindfulness, and anger management. In my spare time, I enjoy physical and nature-based activities as well as intellectually challenging activities.”

Joy Henry, LCSW is a Therapist and Clinical Supervisor for Outpatient Services.

“I have experience as a clinical consultant for outpatient services and earned a Public Relations B.A. in 2008, a Master’s in Social Work in 2014, and a MPA in 2021. I have previously worked as a PR Specialist and a social worker in adolescent and child psychiatry, and nephrology. I have also held multiple roles within adolescent mental health capacities to include clinical Group Therapy for adolescents challenged by compulsive disorders and depression and emergency mental health services. I am particularly passionate about initiatives and policies related to youth, empowering women, and women’s health. “

Thomas “Ross” Wilkin, LPC is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

“My first and foremost goal in therapy is to create a safe environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings and be met with empathy and compassion. My focus lies in working with adults who are seeking to overcome a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and anger. I am dedicated to helping my clients establish enduring, positive changes by delving into the patterns and root causes that underlie their current stressors. I work alongside my clients, engaging in a collaborative effort to establish treatment goals that are effective and authentic to you. In order to address your unique needs, I draw upon a range of modalities such as motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and EMDR. Together we will work towards finding effective solutions that promote personal growth and healing.”

Hanna Lamphere, MSW Supervisee in Social Work is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

“I received my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and have had the honored opportunity to work with a variety of clients experiencing concerns related to mental health challenges, financial stressors, complex medical conditions, grief, loss, and times of transition. I have experience working with individuals with diagnoses of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life changing medical conditions. My approach is to meet each client where they are and empower their strengths through each transition of life. I strive to work collaboratively with each client through a Solution Focused, Strengths Based approach in order to help each client identify their own unique, powerful existence. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, open setting where a client can express themselves, share freely, and feel encouraged and heard. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is compassionate and validating. I believe in a holistic approach to support and therapy and consider all aspects of the human existence when working with clients. In my free time, I love spending time with family, friends, and my wonderful cats, Marnie and Mindy. I try to find adventure in each day, and enjoy the outdoors, exploring, and traveling.”

Jason Schultz, Resident in Marriage and Family Counseling is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

““I am passionate, hard-working, and empathetic. I have received my master’s degree from The College of William and Mary in clinical mental health counseling. I enjoy working with all groups of people regardless of background or mental health needs and look to enhance my skills whenever possible. I have worked with and in many different settings including substance use, couples, family, and individual treatment. I pride myself on being inclusive and empathetic in both my counseling and my personal life. I come from a strengths-based background and like to think that all people who seek counseling can make whatever changes they seek, and that I as the counselor am merely a facilitator or guide. I have completed Gottman level 1 training and utilize EFT, Structural Family Therapy, CBT, DBT and other creative modalities to meet the client/family system where they are. I enjoy spending time with my partner and dog, who bring endless joy and unique experiences to my life. I look forward to working with you so that we may take the journey together to reach your desired destination.”

Aaron Sharpe, MSW Supervisee in Social Work is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

“Hello! My name is Aaron, I am a human first and a therapist second. I am goofy and energetic, and I love my cats. I received my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. I am all of my strengths and passions. I believe others deserve to be seen and defined on their own terms. I am open to working with anyone but predominantly work with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. My work is grounded in the empowerment of individuals in their strengths, skills, and abilities. In our therapeutic space, we are not creating the ideal individual, but restoring the person to someone they have always wanted to be. In our work, our space is a safe space free from judgment, guilt, and shame. My purpose is to uplift others to allow them to find their own personal purpose. I believe flaws are the gateway to growth. In my experience, flaws reveal the biggest strengths of an individual. I believe people make mistakes, but mistakes don’t make people. At the end of the day, I believe we are all humans who are learning, growing, and trying to be better in real-time. Sometimes, all we need is just a little extra support so we can realize everything we want to be.”

Brittany Rush, LCSW is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

I am an outgoing, energetic, bubbly, open-minded and nurturing dog mom, volleyball player, and therapist. I enjoy hands-on activities and projects as much as I enjoy talking and engaging in thought-provoking conversations in therapy. My approach is that YOU are the expert in your own life, and I am simply here to listen, guide and support your choices, decisions, and approaches to tackling the challenges life may bring your way. With my background in criminal justice, I have always had a passion for wanting to help people and impact the lives of others in an effort to intervene before individuals end up being institutionalized. It was on this journey that I identified wanting to work with children and young adults in a different way. I started my clinical/therapeutic journey in 2017 when I started my MSW program at VCU. While in my program, I gained experience in the realm of Social Services as well as working with families of incarcerated individuals. When I entered the world post-master’s degree, I started working in community-based services including Intensive In Home and Mental Health Skill Building. I provided those services for a number of years before stepping into the world of Outpatient therapy. I enjoy so many aspects of the mental health field and I love and am passionate about being a part of people’s journeys to self-discovery, self-love, independence, holistic health and overall wellness.

Marta Boner, MSW Supervisee in Social Work is a Therapist for Outpatient Service

“I am committed to the belief that each individual is the story teller of their own experiences. I provide a therapeutic setting that is a confidential and non judgemental space for all people to share their thoughts, feelings, and challenges. My therapy approach is trauma-informed and engages the whole person; body, mind, and spirit. I received my Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University with a Certificate in Gender Violence Intervention. Outside of being a therapist I am a mother, a wife, and a friend. I have experience working with individuals with diagnoses of serious mental illness, to include schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. My experiences in the mental health field have included opportunities to work in multiple clinical settings to include Crisis Intervention, Intensive Community Outpatient services, and Community Education. I utilize various approaches throughout the therapeutic journey such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Client-Centered Therapy, and many more. I am passionate about providing equal opportunities for all to engage in therapy.”

Jennifer Bragdon, MSW Supervisee in Social Work is a Therapist for Outpatient Service

“I am both gregarious and introverted, highly organized and also messy, energetic but sometimes exhausted. I am a wife, mom (of one human, two cats and a dog named Koot Hoomi) and therapist who believes that the connections we make with each other as human beings, those moments we all share both large and small can change our world. It is with that collaborative spirit that I support clients in making and meeting their goals in order to live their best life and consider it a privilege to be a part of any client’s mental health journey. My therapeutic approach utilizes Family Systems Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy combined with holistic, client-centered, strengths based, practical interventions and creates a safe, judgement-free space for individuals from all walks of life. I received my undergraduate degree from UMass Amherst and my master’s degree in social work from Tulane University. I love to include mindfulness, the mind-body connection and creativity in my practice.”

Meaghan Robertson, Resident in Counseling is a Therapist for Outpatient Services.

“I believe that personal identity changes and adapts over time and I look forward to meeting individuals where they are currently. My hope is to provide clients with a space where they can feel confident in sharing and being heard. I have my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty and have previously completed my bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Mary Washington where I swam competitively. I enjoy utilizing interventions including mindfulness, journaling, and psychoeducation in my practice while considering my client’s experiences and values. My time and experiences as a college athlete have developed my passion for incorporating sports focused treatment into my practice and hope to grow this treatment modality. No two people are the same therefore I shape sessions to reflect an individual’s needs, strengths, and passions. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds and hope to provide a compassionate and supportive experience in therapy.”

Daniela Stapor, MSW Supervisee in Social Work is a Therapist for Outpatient Service

“I am a proud mother of two boys, dog mom to a 12 year old chiweenie and wife. I was born in Bolivia and have lived in Virginia since I moved to the United States in 2003. I received my BSW and MSW from the Virginia Commonwealth University and am very excited to continue my path to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience working with children, families and have worked in various settings such as Child Protective Services and Maternity Health. My approach in therapy is to accommodate to your needs and provide a safe space for your own exploration in your journey. I provide Psychotherapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy and Play Therapy. I am very passionate about mental health and advocacy for those who have yet to find their voice.”

Diehdre Gregory-Holberg, LPC is a Therapist and Clinical Supervisor for Outpatient Services.

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Professional with over twenty years in both macro experience leading successful therapeutic programs and advising on crisis management; and clinical experience specializing in trauma, anxiety, multicultural issues, and behavioral issues. I work to ensure that resources to clients are accessible and that clients feel supported while navigating the journey to healing. I’ve also led efforts to bring matters of diversity, inclusion, and equity in therapeutic spaces to the forefront of the counseling field. I hold a B.S degree in Behavioral Science from Bluefield College, an M.A degree in Professional Clinical Counseling from Liberty University, and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor endorsed by Virginia’s Board of Counseling. In 2023, I also became a Virginia Board of Counseling approved Clinical Supervisor for Clinicians seeking LPC licensure. Therapy works when we work together to identify and reach your goals. I utilize therapy techniques that allow clients to receive treatment for mental health conditions, heal from trauma, navigate conflicts, improve their relationships, or just have a safe, neutral space to talk about life. Clients can expect a therapeutic environment that is compassionate, empathetic, and safe.

Jennifer Heishman, Resident in Counseling is a Therapist for Outpatient Service.

“I am a down-to-earth human, artist, cat-lover, and therapist who believes that we all just need one person to believe in us in order to grow and change. Through connection and collaboration, I support clients in creating and meeting their goals for wellness, whatever that looks like to them. Life can be tough and from time to time we all need a helping hand to navigate our inner and outer worlds and find new paths forward. I earned my Master’s degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from Eastern Virginia Medical School. I use various approaches to therapy based on what works for my client, and enjoy incorporating art, mindfulness, CBT, and person-centered, strength-based approaches.”

Lilyanna Sintayehu, LPC is a Therapist for Outpatient Services (pic attached)

“I am a licensed therapist in the state of Virginia with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My Areas of focus include but aren’t limited to: Children/ Adolescent, LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self-esteem, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, Abandonment, Attachment Issues, Dependent Personality, Family Problems, Guilt and Shame, Impulsivity, Isolation/Loneliness, Life Purpose, Mood Disorders, Post-traumatic Stress, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Self-Love, Social Anxiety and Phobia, and Women’s Issues. I utilize Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.”

Rebecca “Becca” Amos, MSW Supervisee is Social Work is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

“I have a master’s of Social Work and a bachelor’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University. I am a Certified Horticultural Therapist, a doula for reproductive justice, and an aspiring death doula with experience in hospice. I have worked with those experiencing psychiatric hospitalization and have worked extensively in jails with incarcerated individuals and those with histories of substance use. I am dedicated to providing spaces to process lesser recognized experiences of grief and trauma and acknowledging their impacts on our overall well-being. I enjoy using mindfulness and nature-based practices and approach therapy from a holistic, person-centered, systems perspective, emphasizing the effects complex systems have on our functioning across all levels, from our internal parts to family dynamics to the ways race, class, sexuality, and other identities influence how we experience the world. I believe in collaboration with clients to grow awareness of body-mind connections while building insight and tools for self-empowerment. I believe everyone has strengths to create a life they desire, only that sometimes uncovering and honing those strengths requires support from others. As a long-time recipient of therapy, I understand the courage it takes to seek out mental health services. I look forward to climbing this mountain, however big or small, with you one step at a time. In my free time, I enjoy running trails and river swims with my dog Jake, gardening and floral design, reading comics and poetry, and relaxing with friends.”

Tyla Harris, Resident in Counseling is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

“I am a New York City native, born and raised in The Bronx. I graduated from Temple University with my Bachelor of Arts degree in 2020. Shortly after, I decided to continue my educational career and pursue a Master of Arts degree. I obtained my Master of Arts in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness from New York University in 2023. My experience has been working closely with children and adolescents through intensive in-home services and in acute inpatient psychiatric settings. I have also worked with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and PTSD. As a professional, I apply a trauma informed care approach with clients and believe in providing an empathetic safe space to assist clients in flourishing past any barriers impeding their individual growth and mental wellness. My favorite quote comes from Aesop’s Fables – “Slow and steady wins the race.” I look forward to working with clients who are either starting or continuing to navigate their mental health journey. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling to different countries and spending time with my dog.”

Lauren Shewski-Higgs, Resident in Counseling is a Therapist for Outpatient Services

“Hi everyone! I’m Lauren! At my core I am a goofy, imperfect, big hearted animal lover, fur mom to my 4 fur babies, a creative at heart and love to spend time with my partner, friends and family when I am not helping others (which I LOVE to do). I am currently a resident in counseling and working towards getting my LPC. I received my master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling at Radford University in 2020 and have had the privilege to work with many different people and populations since I started practicing therapy. I have a heavy background in working with teens and their families. I tend to be very person centered, holistic and solution focused in my practice, and utilize many interventions including trauma focused care, CBT, mindfulness, systemic and strength-based therapy etc. I really love making therapy comfortable, fun, and conversational. I am dedicated to my clients journey and growth wherever they are in that journey and I look forward to working with each and every one of you!”

Gerlene Sherard, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Outpatient Services

“I am a Licensed board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my degree from Liberty University in August 2020. I am also Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and obtained my degree from Walden University in 2016 and hold certifications with ANCC and AANP governing body. Prior to my degree as a nurse practitioner, I practiced as Registered Nurse for 18 years in different arenas which include hospital setting, dialysis, inpatient outpatient setting, home health and psychiatry.  My passion is patient care and providing care across the life span of children, adults, and families.  

I feel honored and privilege to partner with a group of Mental health licensed professionals to Augment a holistic approach by collaborating and providing holistic care.”

Tomilola “Tomi” Monroe, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Outpatient Services

“I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental healthcare. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University. Before obtaining my degree, I practiced as a Registered Nurse for 11 years. My clinical settings have included nursing homes, correctional facilities, home health, medical-surgical unit, and inpatient psychiatric facilities. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health that incorporates medication management, supportive therapy, and patient education as part of a successful treatment plan. I am a firm believer in patient-centered care, and I strive to create a safe and collaborative environment where you can openly discuss concerns and actively engage in the action plan tailored to your individual needs. I aim to partner with you to achieve optimal mental health and well-being. In my free time, I enjoy cruising and spending time with my family and friends.”

Melissa Sharp, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Outpatient Services

“I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I received my Master’s of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Prior to obtaining my degree as a Nurse Practitioner, I practiced as a Registered Nurse for 12 years. My background in psychiatric nursing has provided me with the ability to practice with compassion and empathy. I believe in a multi-faceted collaborative approach to patient-centered care. I provide a safe environment where my focus is on the whole person. Medication management is just one element of a treatment plan, but when combined with supportive therapy and valuable coping skills, success can be obtained.”

Cecilia Faison Ngwa, PMHNP is a Nurse Practitioner for Outpatient Services

“I have been a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for almost 2 years now. I started my nursing career as a registered nurse in a busy hospital and part time at the correction center. While being a floor nurse, I developed a strong foundation in acute care and patient management with patients suffering from mental health. I had also experienced family members struggle with mental issues which made me deep further in helping the disparity. My passion for mental health led me to pursue advanced practice in nursing at Walden university. I am a proud navy wife with 2 beautiful children. I enjoy cooking, travelling around the world, experiencing different cultures while spending time with family. I enjoy being a part of a client’s healing mission.

Brian Hansen, PMHNP is a Nurse Practitioner for Outpatient Services

“I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). While completing my master’s at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania I really enjoyed learning about PTSD and OCD. Preceding the completion of my degree, I had the opportunity to be a registered nurse in the mental health field for five years. While working inpatient and outpatient I had the chance to see how the combination of therapy and medications can contribute to better long-term outcomes in all aspects of mental health. It’s essential to choose a provider who makes you feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I will strive to offer collaborative care by developing a care plan together with you in a safe manner. My hobbies include watching football and basketball, writing, and staying physically active with my family.”