“The best way to find your direction
is through your compass.”
“The best way to find your direction
is through your compass.”
MEET THE COMPASS TEAM
Our group of professionals invested in helping you navigate your life.
Carolyn Whalen, MSW, LICSW
Adult Therapist and Co-founder of Compass
Do you feel stuck and overwhelmed despite being a highly self-aware and intuitive person? Are you exhausted by your anxiety, feelings of panic, and nonstop worrying? Have you tried talk therapy before and it was okay but it didn't provide you with the relief you were looking for? If so, you are in the right place.
I understand because I too struggled with anxiety for years. I truly know how you feel AND I know how to help. I LOVE working with women and using a mind, body, soul approach. When you work with me you will learn personal healing practices: biofeedback, mindfulness, HeartMath, CBT, DBT, and trauma release techniques. You will develop the skills to get your anxiety under control, stop taking on other people's emotions, and finally set healthy boundaries so you can start living a life of freedom and joy.
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS
- Bachelor of Psychology- Bridgewater State University, Bridgewater, MA
- Master of Social Work -Boston College, Boston, MA
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
- HeartMath® Certified Practitioner
- Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist
- Reiki I & II
Carolyn currently accepts BCBS, Optum, & Tufts HMO Commercial
Hillary Taglienti, M.Ed.
Special Educator, Educational Consultant, Skills Coach, and Co-founder of Compass
Hillary has had ten years of experience working in the public school system with students of all abilities. She has worked with elementary, middle, high school, and post-graduate age students. Hillary has worked as a classroom teacher with students with moderate as well as severe disabilities. In addition to public school experience, Hillary has enjoyed working with the Institute for Community Inclusion with students in their Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Program.
Hillary is one of the co-founders of Compass! She runs social and skills groups as well as provides individual services focused on Executive Functioning, social thinking, emotional regulation, coping skills, and more!
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS
- Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Psychology from The University of Vermont
- Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Anthropology from The University of Vermont
- Masters of Education in Special Education from Fitchburg State University
- Certified Severe Special Education Teacher (Massachusetts)
Hillary currently accepts Private Pay
Gabrielle Sabounjian, LICSW, CEIS
Child/Adolescent/ Adult Therapist
Accepting New Clients- Daytime telehealth/in-person availability
Gabrielle is a licensed independent clinical social worker and has experience working with individuals throughout the lifespan from infants through grandparents. Gabrielle has experience with teens and young adults working on social skills, group work and CBT. She also has experience working with parents and families. She comes from a strength based person-in-environment approach. She enjoys helping individuals find their own strengths and using them to overcome challenges.
Education/Certifications
•Master of Social Work- Springfield College
•Certified Early Intervention Specialist
•Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, LICSW
Gabrielle currently accepts BCBS, Optum, and HPHC
Suma Hiremath, MSW, LICSW
Child/Adolescent/Adult Therapist
Accepting New Patients *Daytime telehealth/in-person availability
Suma is a licensed clinical social worker with experience serving children/adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Suma has worked in various settings ranging from emergency services/crisis, partial hospital and medical social work, and community settings.
For the past five years, Suma’s focus has been as a clinical outpatient therapist, serving ages 5 and up. She is comfortable working with patients that vary in age, background, identity, and presenting concerns. Her approach is positive, client centered, strengths based, and trauma focused. She is TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy) certified and DBT trained. Her clinical focuses include anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, self esteem, multicultural identity/racial trauma, women’s issues, sexual/physical abuse and trauma, self harm, coping skills to manage anxiety and mood, and post partum/prenantal issues.
Education/Certifications
- Bachelor of Psychology, Summa cum laude, Northern Illinois University
- Master of Social Work, Simmons College, Boston, MA
- Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
- TF-CBT certified (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy)
Suma currently accepts BCBS, Optum, and HPHC
Jillian Brooks, LMHC
Child/Adolescent/ Adult Counselor & Group Coordinator
Accepting New Patients *Daytime telehealth/in-person availability
Jillian is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She has a variety of experience including working as a counselor at outpatient clinics as well as providing social and emotional support in a high school classroom. Jillian works with clients ranging in age from 4 to 40.
Jillian provides and focuses on techniques such as coping skills, social/emotional skills, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-regulation, self-esteem building, cognitive behavioral therapy, and social skills. Jillian enjoys using her creativity to develop an individualized approach that engages her clients.
Jillian also has experience teaching social skills groups working on social skills, emotional regulation, coping skills, self esteem, and friendship!
Jillian prides herself on creating an environment that’s comfortable for her clients.
Education/Certifications
● Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
● Bachelor of Science - Belmont University, TN
● Master in Mental Health Counseling - Cambridge College, MA
Jillian currently accepts BCBS, Optum, and HPHC.
Emily Kinney, M.A. in Mental Health Counseling
Child/Adolescent/Adult Counselor
Accepting New Clients- Daytime telehealth availability
Emily is a Masters level clinician and has worked with children and families for nearly 7 years. She has experience working with a range of ages including young children, adolescents, teens, and young adults, as well as parents and family members. She has worked at youth and family agencies where she facilitated groups as well as met clinically one on one with children of all ages. Emily recently finished her master’s program in Mental Health Counseling and is working towards licensure as an LMHC.
Emily works closely with individuals who have experienced trauma, as well as a wide variety of other diagnoses. With children, uses play-centered therapy and has been able to successfully use this form of therapy in person as well as virtually.
Emily enjoys using goal-centered CBT while also working on social skills, psycho-education, and incorporating holistic elements such as mindfulness.
Education/Certifications
- Master of Mental Health Counseling (Cambridge College, Summa cum laude)
- TF-CBT certified (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
- Bachelor in Psychology and Human Development and Family Studies (University of Connecticut, Summa cum laude)
Emily accepts BCBS, Optum, UHC, and Private Pay
Vanessa Orrell, M.A. in Mental Health Counseling
Child/Adolescent/Adult Counselor
Accepting New Patients *Daytime in-person and telehealth availability
Vanessa has worked with children and families for the past six years. Vanessa is a clinician who is committed to supporting mental health, and has experience working in early education, special education, case management, peer support, crisis management, as well as substance use counseling.
Vanessa is a Master’s level clinician in Mental Health Counseling and is working towards independent licensure. Vanessa uses evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT, as well as a strengths-based approach. Vanessa has experience working with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. When working with children, Vanessa brings into action the therapeutic benefits of creating a fun and enjoyable atmosphere.
Vanessa's goal is to help clients recognize and utilize their own unique strengths, gain comfort, believe in their ability to achieve their goals, and live their highest quality of life.
Education/Certifications
- Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marist College, Poughkeepsie NY
- Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and Behavioural Science, McGill University, Montreal QC
Vanessa currently accepts BCBS, Optum, UHC, and Private Pay
Liz Fuller, LICSW
Child/Adolescent/Adult Therapist
Accepting New Clients- Daytime telehealth/in-person availability
Liz Fuller is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Social Work, and has a wide experience of working with individuals and groups. Liz's high energy and attention to detail are helpful for patients to open up and feel safe in a therapeutic environment. She believes with time and patience, patients are able to learn techniques and coping skills to develop a stronger sense of self and be able to adapt and overcome upcoming challenges. When leaving a session, don't be surprised if there are tasks or worksheets that leave with you. Liz is a strong believer that learning skills within the four walls of her office is important work, yet implementing these skills outside of the office is where the real change will occur.
Education/Certifications
- Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Social Work, Minor in Understanding Autism, from Wheelock College
- Master of Art, Social Work from Salem State University
Elizabeth currently accepts BCBS, Optum, HPHC, Tufts Commercial, and Private Pay
Molly Connelly, MS in Counseling Psychology
Child/Adolescent Therapist
Accepting New Clients- Daytime/afternoon in-person and telehealth availability
Molly is a Master’s Level Clinician trained in Mental Health Counseling, and is on track for licensure as an LMHC. She specializes in working with youth and young adults who have trauma backgrounds, mood disorders, ADHD, low self-esteem and/or phase of life issues. Molly has worked with teens and young adults in college counseling settings and with kids, adolescents and teens in sport-based therapy settings. Molly uses Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to help clients tackle negative thought patterns and tolerate and cope with the distress they may experience in their every day lives.
Molly is inclusive and affirming of all racial, ethnic, spiritual, gender and sexual identities and provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to process and discuss their experiences.
In her free time, Molly enjoys spending time with her husband and two cats, cooking, exercising, reading and making art.
Education/Certifications
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Wheaton College, Norton, MA
- Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA
Molly currently accepts BCBS, Optum, UHC, and Private Pay
Vicki Parisi, MA, LMHC
Expressive Art Therapist
Child, Adolescent and Family Therapist
Vicki has extensive clinical experience helping children/teens, young adults and parents/families. She has worked in various mental health settings, treating a wide range of challenges including trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, adhd, learning challenges, depression and many others.
As a licensed professional counselor, her goal is to provide a warm and attentive environment that produces personal growth and wholeness.
Vicki is known for her creative approach and relatability. She has experience with a variety of evidence based therapy treatment models including trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. She prides herself on creating a fun and comfortable space in order to collaborate to set goals, explore thoughts, and develop coping strategies tailored to her client's unique journey toward positive change.
Vicki is passionate about supporting individuals across various stages of life. She has a special interest in parent coaching, working with teens/young adults and blending CBT skills and art/play therapy with children of all ages. Clients of all gender, sexual orientation, cultural and spiritual backgrounds are welcome.
In her free time, Vicki enjoys hiking with her black lab Pearl and spending time with her husband and three children.
Education/Certifications
- Bachelor of Arts, Studio Art/Psychology-Salve Regina University, Newport, RI
- Masters of Expressive Art Therapy- Lesley University, Cambridge, MA
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
Vicki accepts BCBS, Optum, HPHC, and Tufts Commercial
Rebecca Verdiyan, LMHC
Child/Adolescent/Adult Counselor
Rebecca has extensive clinical experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and families. She works with clients from diverse backgrounds with an array of life challenges. Rebecca bases her approach on the needs and goals of the client creating a truly individualized supportive experience.
Rebecca loves working with children and adolescents. She has discovered that her young clients make the most progress when they feel relaxed and are having fun. She utilizes games, play therapy, and movement to teach coping, emotional regulation, and communication skills.
Rebecca is also particularly passionate and knowledgeable when it comes to couples therapy. She supports her couples by helping them to build and strengthen their relationship while remaining safe and protected as individuals. Last but certainly not least, Rebecca shows all her clients true dedication and compassion in a nonjudgmental environment.
Education /Certifications
- Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Evangel University
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
- National Certified Counselor (NCC) through NBCC
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) trained
Rebecca accepts BCBS and Private Pay
Steven Falk, M.A. in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine
Adolescent/Adult Therapist
Accepting New Clients- Daytime/afternoon telehealth availability
Steven is trained in mental health and behavioral medicine where he earned his master’s degree from Boston University School of Medicine. He completed an internship at the Veteran’s Affairs Substance Abuse Treatment Program and worked as a rehabilitation advocate for the Department of Mental Health’s CBFS program for several years. Steven has been an outpatient therapist for 13 years and specializes in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/use, psychosis, and trauma. Steven has experience utilizing several therapeutic techniques some of which include: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Seeking Safety, Client Centered, and Exposure Therapy. He focuses on developing a collaborative approach to treatment that focuses on meeting the client’s immediate needs in order to improve functioning, overall quality of life, and achieving long-term goals.
Education/Certifications
- Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Psychology from University of New Hampshire
- Masters of Arts, Mental Health and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine
Steven accepts BCBS, Optum, UHC, and Private Pay
Angela Silva, MS, LABA
Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst and Skills Coach
Angela has experience as a Behavior Therapist at in-home ABA agencies for three years, providing behavioral services to children who are on the Autism Spectrum. Angela also works at a public school as a Licensed Applied Behavioral Analyst (LABA) with children on the Autism Spectrum as well as children who have social/emotional and behavioral disorders. She has experience working with early intervention aged children as well as school aged children. Angela has experience teaching Social Skills and Emotional Regulation groups as well as providing individual services related to those skills. Angela is an extremely passionate and dedicated therapist.
Education/Certifications
- Bachelor of Communication Sciences and Disorders (Speech Pathology) - Worcester State University, Worcester, MA
- Master of Applied Behavioral Analysis -Simmons College, Boston, MA
- Licensed Applied Behavioral Analyst (LABA)
Angela accepts Private Pay and BCBS for ABA services
Grace Morrison, MSW, LICSW
Child/Adolescent/ Adult Therapist
Grace is a licensed independent clinical social worker with experience providing social skills, emotional regulation techniques, and clinical counseling services to adults, adolescents, and children. Her experience includes work in residential settings, school counseling, and outpatient therapy, specializing in working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Grace has provided services in both the public and private sectors, assisting families in navigating services in both realms. In her work, Grace takes a strengths-based approach in partnering with individuals, groups, and families.
Education/Certifications
•Bachelor in Social Work, Suma Cum Laude- Eastern University, PA
•Master in Social Work- Simmons College, MA
•Licensed Certified Social Worker, LCSW
•Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, LICSW
Grace currently accepts Tufts HMO Commercial, Optum & BCBS
Meghan Nickerson, LMHC, SAC
Child/Adolescent Counselor
Meghan is a licensed mental health counselor and school adjustment counselor. She has experience working with individuals through the lifespan from infants to grandparents. Meghan has specialized in working with children and adolescents in various settings; schools, groups homes, in-home therapy, and traditional office therapy. Meghan works with children and teens on social skills, group work, coping techniques, and problem solving. Meghan enjoys supporting children and teens through conflict, helping them to see their strengths along the way.
Education/Certifications
- Master of Education dual program, Bridgewater State University (MEd)
- Certified School Adjustment Counselor
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
Meghan currently accepts BCBS, Optum, and Private Pay
Please fill out our contact form and we will reach out as soon as possible!