Suzanne Hollman, Ph.D., Psy.D.

Director of Counseling Center and Staff Psychologist (The George Washington University & University College London)

Dr. Suzanne Nortier Hollman, Psy.D., Ph.D. earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The George Washington University, and a Ph.D. degree in the History of Medicine from University College London (UCL). She also holds a MSc degree in the History of Science, Medicine, and Technology from Oxford University in the United Kingdom. She has lived and worked on three continents and has subspecialties in college student mental health and wellness, neuropsychological assessment, issues pertaining to spirituality and mental health, and the accreditation of graduate programs in Clinical Psychology. Dr. Nortier Hollman serves on the American Psychological Association (“APA”) Committee on Accreditation as an elected Commissioner, and  is the past Treasurer/Secretary for the National Council for Schools of Professional Psychology (“NCSPP”). She has taught in graduate programs in Psychology for the past 15 years, and is the Dean Emeritus and former Program Chair of the APA approved Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology at the Institute for the Psychological Sciences “IPS”) at Divine Mercy University. She has written and presented internationally and currently has a book chapter and two journal articles in press. Dr. Nortier Hollman has completed fellowships with the New York Freudian Society, the Washington Psychoanalytic Society, and the Unit for Psychoanalysis at University College London. She is a member of the Transcultural Histories of Psychiatry group at UCL and is a regular media contributor specific to the advancement of mental health, and the alleviation of suffering, wherever it exists. She spends as much time as she can in the ocean snorkeling, learning to surf, and perhaps most challenging of all,  familiarizing herself with Gen-Alpha linguistics.

Peter Ellsworth, Ph.D.

Part-Time Staff Psychologist (Fielding Graduate University)

Dr. Ellsworth provides psychotherapy and supervision services in the Center while also supervising practicum students in the Department of Psychology. In addition to a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, Dr. Ellsworth has an MS in Pastoral Counseling from Loyola University Maryland. Dr. Ellsworth was a staff therapist and researcher at the St. Luke Institute, a private psychiatric hospital for Catholic priests and men and women religious, for 17 years before going into a generalist private practice. He believes in the healing power of encounters with short-term psychotherapy and the wisdom of maintaining an openness to the efficacy of a variety of therapeutic approaches. Dr. Ellsworth’s research interests include exploring the connections between mental well-being and spiritual growth, illuminating the role of allostasis and optimal responsiveness to stress demands in maintaining mental and physical health, and identifying strategies to harness the client’s innate ability to heal themselves. Dr. Ellsworth and his spouse are the grateful parents of five adult children. Dr. Ellsworth also appreciates the benefits of diverse meditation and contemplative practices, running, building things, and meaningful conversations with others.

Allyson Shaffer, M.S.W, L.I.C.S.W.

Staff Social Worker & Director of Externship Training (Marywood University)

Allyson Shaffer, LICSW, received her Masters of Social Work from Marywood University in 1994. She has been at Catholic University since 2010, serving in Social Work education, Student Affairs and the Counseling Center. Allyson has over 25 years of clinical practice experience, with individuals, families and groups. She has a background in crisis intervention, trauma & emergency psychiatry services, grief & loss, and counseling with children, young adults & parents. Allyson is the Training Director for the Graduate Externship Program for Social Work & Psychology students.  She takes a collaborative approach to therapy, working with clients from a Cognitive Behavioral perspective, utilizing aspects of psychosocial and strengths based theories. Outside of work, She enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She can often be found at a baseball or swimming event, or out trying to keep up with her dogs. Her favorite days are at the beach with her family.

Renita C. Gabriel, Psy.D.

Staff Psychologist 

 Dr. Renita C. Gabriel earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Chicago
School of Professional Psychology, Chicago Campus. She has significant experience
providing psychotherapy and psychological assessment in a variety of settings (i.e.,
inpatient, outpatient, academic, and forensic) with populations ranging across the
lifespan and from culturally diverse backgrounds. For the past 15 years, Dr. Gabriel has
been the owner of a small group private practice where she primarily sees clients for
individual therapy and supervises pre-licensed clinicians. Dr. Gabriel takes an
integrative approach to psychotherapy that is collaborative, culturally responsive and
strengths-based. Drawing on cognitive- behavioral, existential and person-centered
techniques, Dr. Gabriel recognizes the importance of an individualized treatment
approach in her work with clients. She is a member of several professional
organizations including the Maryland Psychological Association (MPA), the American
Psychological Association (APA) and the American Association of Christian Counselors
(AACC). Dr. Gabriel’s professional interests include the integration of spirituality in mental health treatment, professional mentorship, writing, teaching and providing education and support to faith-based communities around mental health. She currently serves on the school board of a small Christian School in Maryland and is an active participant in her local church. She enjoys music, travel and spending time with her husband and two children.

Gail Martinez Waters, Ph.D., LCPC

Director of Outreach

Dr. Martinez Waters is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland and Washington D.C. She earned her Doctorate in Counseling Education and Supervision with a focus on Pastoral and Spiritual Integration from Neumann University, where she studied the integration of spiritual care in counseling and researched the impact of mental health literacy on mental health knowledge, relationships, and spirituality. She also holds a Master’s degree in Education, School Counseling from Loyola University Maryland. For more than 20 years, Dr. Martinez Waters served as a K–12 public school educator and school counselor, supporting students, families, and communities in building mental health awareness and resilience. She has also provided private counseling to adolescents, young adults, and adults, helping clients navigate life transitions and emotional challenges. Her professional interests include life transitions, anxiety, grief, relationships, and the role of spirituality in mental health. She takes a relational and humanistic approach, creating a safe space where students can build authentic connections, discover their strengths, and heal through meaningful relationships. Outside of her professional work, Dr. Martinez Waters enjoys playing tennis and traveling for leisure to explore local cuisines.

Andrew J. Park, Psy.D.

(The Institute for the Psychological Sciences at Divine Mercy University)

Dr. Andrew J. Park earned his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Institute for the Psychological Sciences at Divine Mercy University. He also holds master’s degrees from Korea University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Divine Mercy University. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Georgetown University Counseling & Psychiatric Services and APA-accredited internship at the University of Kansas Counseling & Psychological Services. Prior to a career in psychology, he worked for over a decade in management, education, and software. He has lived and worked in the US and Korea and has a particular interest in college student mental health, athletic performance, identity formation, multiculturalism, and religion/spirituality. Dr. Park believes therapy is a collaborative process that relies on a supportive therapeutic relationship to meet the client’s unique, individual needs in supporting them on their road to flourishing. Dr. Park provides therapy in English and Korean. In his free time, Dr. Park enjoys rock climbing, running, and playing tennis

Christina (Seung Yoon) Lee, M.T.S., Psy.D.

Divine Mercy Practicum Training Director 

 Dr. Lee earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Divine Mercy University (DMU) and a master’s degree in Theological Studies on Marriage and Family from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in Washington, DC. Dr. Lee completed her pre-doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at the University Counseling Services at California State University, Northridge a vibrant setting in Los Angeles, providing counseling to a wide spectrum of clients, including immigrants, first-generation college students, and international students. Her work addressed the complexities of identity, acculturation, and cultural transitions, fostering an inclusive approach that recognizes and celebrates each client’s unique experiences. She serves as a training director for practicum trainees from DMU at the CUA Counseling Center and also offers therapy to individuals seeking a counselor who respects the significance of faith and spirituality within the therapeutic process. Dr. Lee’s clinical interests include depression, trauma and resiliency, creative therapeutic approaches, multicultural counseling, identity development, existential exploration, and spiritual struggles. She is passionate about guiding clients toward greater self-understanding, equipping them with adaptive coping skills, and helping them overcome psychological barriers to strengthen their relationships with themselves, others, and God. She can provide therapy in both English and Korean.

Anna Westlund Bramlett, Ph.D.

Staff Psychologist 

Dr. Anna Westlund Bramlett earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at Marquette University. She holds an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marquette University and an M.A. in Education and Human Development from the George Washington University. Anna's research has focused on the optimization of executive leaders’ mental health, and she is also an executive coach. Previously, Anna spent a decade working in education as a middle school teacher, a principal, and a director in human resources. Outside of work, Anna can be found spending time with family and friends, rollerblading and walking outside, and exploring coffee shops and bakeries

Chidinaobim Nwodo

Predoctoral Intern 

Isabella Seabrooks

Predoctoral Intern

Isabella (Bella) Seabrooks is a pre-doctoral intern completing her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Miami University, where she also earned her M.A. She received her B.S. in Psychology from Fordham University. Bella has treated patients across the lifespan and worked in various settings, including residential/partial hospitalization, integrated primary care, and private practice. She most recently worked as a doctoral intern at McLean Hospital, specializing in OCD and anxiety treatment. Her clinical approach is integrative, grounded in evidence-based practice and multicultural principles, with a special interest in incorporating faith and spirituality into treatment. In her free time, Bella enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and friends and attempting to perfect various Lebanese dishes

Masha Abapolnikova

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Extern

Annett Kuester

Master's of Social Work Extern

Annett Kuester is a second-year clinical track student in the Master of Social Work program at Catholic University. She earned her Master of Philosophy in Development Economics at the University of Oxford and enjoyed a previous career in business consulting and economic policy. Her clinical interests include working with adolescents and young adults, and she previously worked in the Office of Disability Support Services at Catholic University. In her free time, she loves rowing and coaching rowing, swimming with her masters swim team, hiking, and spending time with her almost grown kids and friends.

Megan Perales

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Extern

Megan Perales, M.Psy., is a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at Divine Mercy University, where she also earned her master's degree in Clinical Psychology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas. Megan has provided therapy and psychological assessment services to adolescents and adults in community mental health and private practice settings, and is passionate about serving individuals from diverse and marginalized backgrounds. Outside of her clinical work, she enjoys reading fantasy and historical fiction, spending time outdoors, and making memories with family and friends.

Cara Powell

Master's of Social Work Extern

Cara Powell is a master's student at The Catholic University of America’s National Catholic School of Social Service. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Maryland. Her clinical interests include supporting adolescents and adults as they navigate life transitions, manage anxiety and its many manifestations, and address substance use disorders.  In her free time she enjoys gardening and cultivating native plants that attract pollinators.

Lydia Smith,

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Extern

Lydia Smith is a fifth-year doctoral student within CUA's clinical psychology program. She has years of experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults from a wide-array of cultural backgrounds addressing their anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, interpersonal issues and stress. In her clinical work, she prides herself in being an active therapist who asks useful--and, at times, challenging--questions while offering a fresh perspective to guide clients towards living the life they want to be leading. She has training in cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches, such as Acceptance & Commitment therapy. Outside of her clinical work, Lydia enjoys Crossfit, cuddling with her cats, and playing Stardew Valley.

Mary Fallon

CUA Practicum Student

Anikait Gadi

CUA Practicum Student

Anikait Gadi is a doctoral student at CUA's Clinical Psychology Program. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Public Health from The Ohio State University. His clinical interests include working with adolescents and young adults with depression and anxiety. His research interests focus on exploring cognitive risk factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviors and growing the body of research in suicide prevention. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, travelling, and exploring new coffee shops and restaurants. 

Sara Silber

CUA Practicum Student

Sara Silber is a doctoral student in the CUA Clinical Psychology Program. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Franklin & Marshall College. Her clinical interests include working with individuals with developmental disabilities as well as psychological testing, and her research interests are in developing interventions to better support independence and adaptive functioning for this population. For fun, Sara enjoys biking, crafting, and spending time with her cat!

Elizabeth Tandilashvili

CUA Practicum Student

Lizzie Tandilashvili is a doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology Program at The Catholic University of America. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Maryland. Her clinical interests include supporting individuals navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges. Her research interests center on risk-taking, resilience, and factors that promote positive development and well-being. In her free time, she enjoys going on long walks with her dog, traveling, and cooking for her friends and family. 

Sean Aberle

DMU Practicum Student

Alycia Crabb

DMU Practicum Student

Alycia Crabb is a doctoral student at Divine Mercy University Professional Psychology Program. She earned her Bachelor of Sciences in Psychology with a minor in Social Justice from Oklahoma State University and a Master of Professional Studies in Clinical Psychological Science from the University of Maryland. Her clinical interest include working with adolescents and adults experiencing suicidal ideation, depression, and anxiety. In her leisure time, she enjoys pottery, painting, and spending time with her fiancé and family. 

Fr. Raymond Emedo\

DMU Practicum Student

Fr. Raymond Emedo is a Catholic priest and doctoral student at Divine Mercy University. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from University of Ibadan and a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Pontifical Urban University. His clinical interests include working with adolescents, individuals discerning vocations, and multicultural populations, as well as psychological assessment. His research interests center on the relationship between mental health and vocational development. In his free time, he enjoys watching soccer, taking walks, and playing tennis.

Jared Johnson

DMU Practicum Student

Jared Johnson is a doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology program at Divine Mercy University's Institute for the Psychological Sciences. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Washington Adventist University. His clinical interests include dialectical behavior therapy, integrative and person-centered approaches to treatment, and working with adults and adolescents navigating life transitions. His theoretical research focus is on the role of faith and meaning as constructs in psychotherapy. In his leisure time, he enjoys philosophy, writing, pickleball, and spending time with his family.

Avery Landry

DMU Practicum Student

Avery Landry is a graduate student pursuing a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) at Divine Mercy University. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Louisiana State University. Her clinical interests include psychological testing with adolescents and adults, as well as first responders. In her leisure time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, and watching movies.

DJ Maceda

DMU Practicum Student

DJ Maceda is a PsyD doctoral student in the DMU Clinical Psychology program. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Psychology from Stanford University. DJ's clinical interests include working with families and couples, and his research interests include questions bridging faith, spirituality, and mental health. In his leisure time, he enjoys calling friends, reading, and learning new Asian recipes to cook. 

Brian McDermott

DMU Practicum Student

Brian McDermott is a doctoral student at the Divine Mercy University Clinical Psychology Program. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Pennsylvania State University and is an Army veteran with over nine years of service. As a recipient of the U.S. Army Health Professions Scholarship Program, he will return to active-duty service as an Army clinical psychologist following completion of his doctoral training. His clinical and research interests include military psychology, trauma, moral injury, suicide, and psychological assessment. In his free time, Brian enjoys running, hiking, skiing, and traveling with his family.

Tatyanna Parajon

DMU Practicum Student

Tatyanna Parajon is a doctoral student at the DMU Clinical Psychology Program. She earned her Bachelor of Sciences in Psychology from North Greenville University. Her clinical interests include working with children, adolescents, adults, and multicultural populations. In her leisure time, she enjoys watching soccer, hiking, and time with family and friends. 

Evan Patti

DMU Practicum Student

Evan Patti is a doctoral student at Divine Mercy University in the Clinical Psychology Program.  He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Appalachian State University. His clinical interests include working with adolescents, adults, and multicultural populations, as well as psychological testing, while his research interests lie at the intersection of mental health and criminal justice. In his leisure time, he enjoys watching and playing sports, spending time with family and friends, and attending social gatherings and events. 

Frances Popp

DMU Practicum Student

Frances Popp is a Clinical Psychology doctoral student at Divine Mercy University who earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ave Maria University in 2014. Accepted to the military HPSP program, she is currently in the pipeline to become a military psychologist. Her clinical interests include walking alongside individuals struggling with grief, depression, and trauma, while her research focuses on the healing effects of secure attachments for those suffering from PTSD. In her free time, Frances enjoys hiking, backpacking, contact sports, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog Ria.

Robert Ruark

DMU Practicum Student

Robert Ruark is a clinical psychology doctoral student at Divine Mercy University. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from West Chester University in Pennsylvania. His clinical interests include working with children, adolescents and young adults suffering from depression and anxiety. His primary research interest involves understanding the role of attachment relationships in depression, anxiety and other mental health difficulties. In his free time he likes to read, drink coffee, hike and go to the gym. 

Milla Sato

DMU Practicum Student

Milla Sato is a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at Divine Mercy University, where her training emphasizes the integration of theology, philosophy, and psychology. She earned her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy from Benedictine College. Her clinical interests include working with children, young adults, families, couples, and older adults, with an additional focus on cognitive and psychological assessments. She is committed to developing a practice that integrates professional, competent clinical work with a holistic and Catholic understanding of the human person.

Rachel Zaragoza

DMU Practicum Student