About Us
The Healing Tree aims to provide high quality and accessible trauma centered care in line with the most up to date evidence-based practices. Founded in 2013 in a one room office in North Brunswick, The Healing Tree has grown to welcome a group of therapists who are warm, welcoming, and dedicated to learning and growing with their clients. The Healing Tree is committed to providing an anti-racist, inclusive, and welcoming environment for clients of all walks of life to engage in their healing process as well as for student interns to begin their journey into trauma centered care.
Amanda Uhrig, LCSW, PMH-C, RYT200
(pronouns: she/her/hers) - Licensed in NJ, NY, FL
With over a decade of clinical experience and as a graduate of Rutgers University specializing in Violence Against Women and Children, my areas of expertise are child abuse/child sexual abuse, eating disorders, and trauma.
I am an interactive, solution-focused therapist. My philosophy on therapy is that I am not there to open the door for you, but to teach you how to open it for yourself. I often use humor in my therapy sessions - with such heavy topics being discussed, a little bit of levity is often needed - and I am a firm believer that laughter is one of the best medicines!
I particularly enjoy working with individuals who have experienced trauma - sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, attachment trauma, bullying, sexual assault, domestic violence, car accidents, etc. I am trained in a wide variety of therapeutic techniques (EMDR, sand play therapy, Internal Family Systems) specifically tailored to treat trauma symptoms. I am currently seeking certification as an eating disorder specialist and have a HAES aligned, weight-inclusive approach to my work with my clients.
I am especially passionate about training and educating the next generation of therapists. I teach Clinical Social Work: Working with Survivors of Abuse & Trauma at the Rutgers University Graduate School of Social Work and particularly love bringing my years of clinical experience into the classroom. I have worked as both a field supervisor and field liaison for MSW interns over the past ten years, and find great joy in seeing new social workers find a passion for trauma work. I love working in clinical supervision and consultation with other professionals to help all clients receive the best care possible.
Education
Rutgers University, Masters in Social Work
Certifications and Additional Training
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Certified
EMDRIA Approved Consultant
EMDR HAP Facilitator-In-Training
Sand Play Certification
IFS Institute - Internal Family Systems Online Circle, Spring 2024
Violence against Women and Children (VAWC) Certificate
Clinical Social Work Supervision Certificate
SIFI Certificate
Finding Words Trained
Professional Activities and Memberships
EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)
National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
Academy for Eating Disorders (AED)
International Association for Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP)
Association for Size Diversity & Health (ASDAH)
Lisa Worob, LCSW
(pronouns: she/her/hers)
Hello! I hope you are proud of yourself for taking this important step towards a happier and healthier you! My approach to clinical care is direct, collaborative, and solution-focused, with you in the driver seat. I will be here every step of the way to guide you, yet the changes that will ensue will be a product of your hard work, consistency, and motivation towards becoming a better you. How exciting and empowering that is!
I use various therapeutic approaches in order to help you reach your goals, especially cognitive and dialectical behavioral techniques, which will help us challenge the negative thoughts towards ourselves that disrupt functioning in our daily lives, thereby allowing us to meet our full potential and lead lives worth living!
I specialize in working with adults who suffer from the following issues: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict; low self-esteem, and weight-related issues with experience treating eating disorders.
Artresia Fryar, LCSW, ABD
(pronouns: she/her/hers)
I am excited about your journey to healing!! Healing is a personal journey! I use several different approaches and all my treatment is personalized for that individual but with evidence based practices. I stand on effective communication and openness. I utilize the strength based perspective and client centered focus model. My philosophy is that you can get through anything, if you are willing. My favorite word is “Resilience”. Resilience means the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness…
My area of interest is children, adolescent and adults. My expertise is in trauma, childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, relationship and marriage issues.
Education
Rutgers University, Masters in Social Work
Capella University, DSW, ABD
Certifications
Certified Forgiveness Therapist
SIFI
Nurtured Heart Approach
Life of Passages (Rutgers University)
Jessica Szabo, LCSW, LCADC
(pronouns: she/her/hers)
I built my foundation in therapy at Rutgers University by obtaining my master’s degree in social work and a certificate in addiction counseling. While in school, l was privileged to mentor low-income first-generation students pursuing higher education and volunteer with academic services at a youth correctional facility. Before joining the team at The Healing Tree, I practiced as a clinician in a long-term dual-diagnosis facility providing individual, family and group therapy to adults seeking substance abuse and/or mental health treatment.
I work hard to build rapport to create a safe and conducive space. My sessions are known to be warm and lighthearted, genuine and direct, humorous and goal oriented. I've always valued the power of connection through adversity and find joy in using group therapy to create camaraderie during difficult times.
Majority of my experience has been with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, family conflict, anger management, life skills, self esteem and living in balance.
I am passionate about empowering my clients and being able to assist in life changes that support long-term wellness. I also provide supervision to our Master’s level interns, who are able to provide low cost services to our clients.
Lauren Baghsarian, LSW
(pronouns: she/her/hers)
My professional therapeutic journey started at Stockton University where I earned my Bachelors in Social Work, with a Holistic Health minor, and Masters in Social Work. Throughout my years at Stockton University I spent a lot of time advocating for and empowering others to utilize their voice in their journey of healing and learning. Two philosophies I utilize often are “Give yourself grace” and “stand in your truth”
My therapeutic approaches stem from trauma informed and person focused approaches. The modalities used are adjusted based on the individual’s needs. I have experience with EMDR, Trauma Informed CBT, and strength based work. I strive to empower you to create your treatment plan goals. I will share the space with you as we work together through the process.
I have experience working with children, young adults, and older adults with diverse experiences and backgrounds. I have worked in outpatient therapy and on a community action team (CAT team) as a therapist for children and young adults stabilizing after crisis. I am able to conduct virtual or in person sessions based on the individual’s needs and preferences.
My goal as a therapist is to share space with you as you process your experiences, empower you to be your authentic self, and to stand in your truth throughout your healing journey.
I look forward to being a part of your healing journey.
Education:
Stockton University Bachelors in Social Work with a minor in Holistic Health
Stockton University Masters in Social Work
Certificates and Additional Training:
Licensed Social worker, TF-CBT, EMDR
Emily Brennan, LSW
I am passionate towards working with you in your journey to wellness! Throughout my career, I have worked with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings and I have knowledge of mental and emotional health, chronic illness, loss/grief and difficulty coping with life's circumstances.
I have extensive experience working in a medical setting helping children and families adjust to various medical diagnoses and navigating the challenges that come with treatment. I also have experience working with children, adolescents and families experiencing anxiety, depression, parent/child conflict and transitional challenges. I incorporate a strength-based approach to therapy and provide an unconditional positive regard and empathy to all individuals.
My goal is to provide an environment where individuals feel comfortable and supported to explore a myriad of issues that are important to you.
I am currently a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey. I received my Bachelors and Master of Social Work degree from Seton Hall University.
Leigh Fagerstrom, LCSW, LCADC, C-DBT
pronouns (she/her/hers)
I look forward to collaborating with you throughout this empowering process. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, addiction, family conflicts and difficulty managing stress and emotions. I am trained in sand play therapy and certified in DBT. I hope to offer you a safe and authentic space while we work towards your sustainable wellness and post traumatic growth. I have extensive experience working with older children, teens, adults and families.
My therapeutic approaches include trauma informed care, humanistic and experiential therapy. My therapeutic modalities are eclectic and vary with each unique individual, however, I generally work towards skills building utilizing dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), IFS/parts work and sand play therapy.
I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you strengthen the natural capacity within yourself to heal.
Education
Monmouth University, Masters in Social Work
Certifications and Additional Trainings
Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT)
SIFI
Trained in Sand Play Therapy at Lighthouse Counseling
Trained in the Sanctuary Model of trauma informed care
Asia Lanford-Harris, MA, LAC, NCC
(pronouns: she/her/hers)
Hello! I am so happy to be a part of your personal and unique healing journey.
I utilize an eclectic array of interventions to cultivate a strong therapeutic relationship and a healthy, safe space for you to share your story, frustrations, fears and goals. I lead with acceptance, honesty, genuineness, and humor. I want you to feel heard and confident in your journey and I hope to instill a joint venture where our knowledge and skills are combined to create solutions. I emphasize the importance of meeting the client where they are and taking into consideration the complexity of their situation.
My work is focused on individuals living with depression, anxiety, psychosomatic symptoms, struggles with racial identity, caregiver fatigue, grief, bullying, self-esteem, weight-related issues, family conflict, suicidal ideation and trauma. Some of the modalities I incorporate include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused counseling, mindfulness-based therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and use of strength-based approaches.
I built my foundation at Rutgers University, working with adolescents with behavioral and developmental issues as a Mental Health Specialist at the Rutgers University Behavioral HealthCare Children and Adolescent Inpatient Program. I continued on to The College Of New Jersey where I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. During my time at both Rutgers University and The College Of New Jersey, I have been able to work with various populations such as children, young adults, and older adults with unique experiences and diverse backgrounds. In my experience, I have been privileged to advocate for multiracial individuals and families.
Education:
Rutgers University, Bachelors In Psychology with a minor in Public Health
The College of New Jersey, Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Certifications:
Nationally Certified Counselor
Chrissy Accardi, LAC, PMH-C
(pronouns: she/her/hers)
As a therapist, I work with individuals who are looking to process emotions, make changes, and feel understood. We work together towards individual goals to support progress throughout each session. Individuals will feel heard and supported while also addressing any internal or external obstacles. In my practice I use a person-centered approach to therapy along with CBT and DBT skills. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, relationship issues, Women's Issues, PMDD, Infertility, Post Partum Depression/Anxiety and Narcissistic Abuse, and am currently pursuing my certification as a Perinatal Mental Health counselor.
Education
The College of New Jersey - Master of Arts in Counseling/School Counseling
Amanda Luisi, LAC
(she/her/hers)
Hello! In the counseling space, everyone is welcome with open arms, and I will be here to support you every step of the way. My goal is to create a warm environment where you are heard and respected. Whether you're a child, teen, adult, or part of a family or couple, I tailor my approach to meet you where you are, providing guidance, understanding, and practical tools to help you thrive.
As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals process their emotions, make meaningful changes, and feel genuinely understood. Together, we work towards your unique goals, built on a person-centered approach. I often integrate CBT and DBT skills, as well as art therapy and play therapy, to effectively address various challenges for different age groups.
I specialize in working with clients facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, sexual trauma, relationship issues, narcissistic abuse, and family dysfunction. Additionally, I am currently pursuing certification as an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (CCPS).
I graduated from New York University (NYU) with a master’s in applied psychology with a concentration in Mental Health and Wellness Counseling. In our sessions, you will feel heard and supported as we navigate both internal and external obstacles, fostering a path towards healing and growth.
Brigitte Suarez
Administrative Assistant
(she/her/hers)
As your first contact at The Healing Tree, I am so proud of you for taking the first steps to make the transition to your healing journey.
I hope to make this process as simple, smooth and secure as possible.
With over 11 years of client and patient service care, I am a well rounded, patient and empathetic person. I am here to help you make the transition from a simple phone call to an effective future change.
Calvin Hui, MSW Intern
(pronouns: he/him/his)
Radical, compassionate, courageous. Calvin is a budding MSW student and emergent sex therapist. He has multiple years of experience working with the sex and gender diverse community. Starting off as a volunteer for The Pride Center of NJ, he created an online support group for queer folk to vent and hold space for one another during the pandemic. Calvin then transitioned into a sexuality counselor, where he provided an open, non-judgmental space for clients to discuss and receive support around healthy sexuality. In his previous practicum at Pathways SBYSP, he gained experience working clinically with at-risk teens in school settings, which was further augmented through his summer internship at IEP Youth Services – where he worked with youth on probation. Calvin is committed to not only addressing underrepresented and misrepresented populations – as a queer person of color – he also works actively to combat the social stigma and shame that often accompanies being sexually “different”. In his final year of the MSW program at Rutgers University and with his participation in the certificate program on Interpersonal Violence and Trauma (C-IVT), Calvin continues to sharpen his clinical skills in addressing trauma in order to bring the highest level of care to his clients.
With immense fervor, Calvin is honored to bring his evergrowing skillset to aid The Healing Tree in helping to develop a more community-centric and sustainable world we share.