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) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). 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 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, traveling for leisure to explore local cuisines, and serving her church as a lector and member of the mental health ministry.

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,

Pre-Doctoral Intern

Maryam Sodeyi,

Pre-Doctoral Intern 

Maryam Sodeyi is a pre-doctoral intern completing her Psy.D in clinical psychology program at Appalachian State University. Maryam has a Masters degree in Community Psychology-Clinical services from the University of New Haven. Her theoretical orientation is rooted in an integrative, culturally humble, and client-centered approach. While Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) forms the foundation of her graduate training, she tends to utilize techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This flexibility allows her to adapt interventions to each client’s unique identity, faith, values, and need, ensuring holistic and effective care. Her research focuses on developing culturally responsive strategies to address mental health challenges, with an emphasis on holistic care and stigma reduction. She is also passionate about informing policies that guide the delivery of evidence-based mental health treatments especially to the underserved. In her free time, she enjoy's reading, cooking, running, and spending time with family and friends.

Marilyn Kitzes,

Extern (The Catholic Univerity of America)

Marilyn Kitzes is a Master of Social Work (MSW) candidate at Catholic University and a graduate of the University of Michigan. As part of her master's program, Marilyn worked at Catholic University's Disability Support Services (DSS) where as a learning skills advisor, she helped students make the transition from high school to college, and guided them through personal challenges and self-advocacy on campus. Marilyn has worked with the Afghan refugee population, and founded Book Jam, literary discussion groups for tweens. When not working or studying, she enjoys spending time with her family and rambunctious dog.

Cedric Williams,

Extern (Howard University)

Cedric Williams  is a fourth-year doctoral student of clinical psychology at Howard University. He received a bachelor’s in psychology from Black Hills State University and Master of Social Work from the University of Minnesota. As a social worker, he completed assessments with clients, formulated tailored care plans, and guided them through medical systems to ensure quality care. His research interests involve the examination of environmental stressors and their impact on cognitive functioning among older adults. Cedric is experienced in conducting neuropsychological assessments with a diverse client base for a variety of cognitive-related concerns.  He looks forward to continued growth as a therapist! In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children, reading, and photography.

Dinobi Nwodo,

Extern (George Washington University)

Chidinaobim "Dinobi" Nwodo is a doctoral student at the GWU Professional Psychology Program.  She earned her Bachelor of Sciences in Psychology from Northeastern University, Boston MA. Her clinical interests include working with adolescents, adults, and multicultural populations, as well as psychological testing, while her research interests lie at the intersection of mental health and public policy. In Dinobi's leisure time, she enjoys writing, exploring fragrances, and caring for animals! Dinobi is excited to work at CUA this year, providing counseling services to students.

Sean Hilger,

Extern (The Catholic Univeristy of America)

 Sean Hilger received his undergraduate degree in psychology from James Madison University, graduating Magna Cum Laude and is currently pursuing his graduate degree in Clinical Social Work (MSW) at The Catholic University of America. His interests lie in working with high school and college-aged young adults with a variety of challenges and life circumstances. Sean is passionate about the impact and importance of psychotherapy in the lives of all people.

Julia Wall,

Extern (The Loyola University )

Julia Wall is a fourth-year doctoral student in the Psy.D. Clinical Psychology program at Loyola University. She has clinical experience in a variety of settings, including the Loyola Clinical Centers, Nexus-Woodbourne Family Healing, and Expressive Therapy Center, where she provided individual and group therapy, as well as conducted psychoeducational assessments. Outside of work, Julia enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her rescue dog, Otis.

Madison Schulte,

Practicum (The Catholic Univeristy of America)

Madison Schulte is a second-year Clinical Psychology doctoral student at CUA. She earned her B.A. in Psychology and Health, Medicine & Society from Lehigh University and her M.S. in Experimental Psychology from William & Mary. Before attending CUA, Madison studied contextual influences on the development of self-regulation in toddlerhood. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and listening to live music.

Mary Rose Yockel,

Practicum (The Catholic Univeristy of America)

 Mary Rose Yockel is a second-year Clinical Psychology doctoral student at CUA with a B.A. in Psychology from Brown University. Before CUA, she worked as a research coordinator at Georgetown Lombardi Cancer Center, managing projects on parent-child communication about hereditary and late-stage parental cancer. In her free time, she enjoys running, yoga, and experimenting with new recipes.

Nicole Herman,

Practicum (The Catholic Univeristy of America)

Nicole Herman is a second-year clinical psychology doctoral student working in the Cognition, Affect, and Behavior (CAB Lab). She graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2022 before working at the Yale Child Study Center as a clinical neuroscience research fellow.

Anna McLellan,

Practicum (The Catholic Univeristy of America)

Anna McLellan is a second-year Clinical Psychology doctoral student at CUA with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Leiden University in the Netherlands. Having lived in five countries, she brings a global perspective to her work and has clinical experience across the lifespan using CBT, integrative approaches, exposure-based therapies, and is currently training in dialectical behavior therapy. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, crafting, and walking her Korean rescue dog.

Abigail Kelly,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Abigail Kelly is a second year doctoral student in the Psy.D. program at Divine Mercy University. She is passionate about supporting people as they discover meaning through their challenges; college and young adult years can be a period of growth in understanding oneself just as they are years of learning about chosen fields of study. Abigail worked in an interdisciplinary clinic for children with autism and developmental disabilities.

Kyle McKeown,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Kyle McKeown is a second year doctoral student in Divine Mercy University’s Psy.D. program. His initial years of study have provided a comprehensive foundation in the core principles of the field. Kyle is enthusiastic about working with CUA students, and deeply understanding the practical aspects of clinic operations. He is eager to work with clients, apply theoretical knowledge, and further develop skills in a professional clinical setting.

Alexis Harbuck,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Alexis Harbuck is a second year doctoral student in Divine Mercy University’s Psy.D. program. She graduated summa cum laude from Virginia Tech with a B.S. in Clinical Neuroscience and a B.S. in Psychology in 2022. She worked in a trauma focused research lab as an undergrad and has a background in working with neurodivergent children.

Benjamin Whalen,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

 Benjamin Whalen is a second year doctoral student in Divine Mercy University’s Psy.D. program. His undergraduate education consists of both a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from North Dakota State University, as well as a B.A. in Liberal Arts from Thomas Aquinas College. Benjamin brings his background and education in both Philosophy and Engineering to his clinical work, with a deep appreciation for wonder and awe in the face of mystery.

 Miguel Mindoza,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Miguel Mendoza is a second year doctoral student in Divine Mercy University’s Psy.D. program. He completed his undergraduate degree at Northern Arizona University in 2018 where he majored in Exercise Science. He worked as a wildland firefighter, campus minister and served as a missionary with the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) prior to attending Divine Mercy University.

Grace Jones,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Grace Jones Grace Jones is a second-year doctoral student in the Psy.D. program at Divine Mercy University, with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies from NYU. She has experience in behavioral therapy for children with autism, crisis support via text platforms, and group therapy for adults with serious mental illness. In her free time, she enjoys biking and keeping up with her mischievous Shiba Inu.

Rebecca Carpenter,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Rebecca is a second-year doctoral student in the Psy.D. program at Divine Mercy University with a B.S. in Psychology from Penn State University. She previously conducted research on employee retention and worked as a behavioral health technician supporting neurodivergent children and their families. In her free time, she enjoys practicing yoga and reading memoirs to deepen her understanding of human resilience and lived experience.

Abigail Townsend,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Abigail Townsend is a second year doctoral student in the Psy.D. program at Divine Mercy University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an emphasis in Health from Brigham Young University–Idaho. She has provided case management and community-based mental health services for adults, and has worked one-on-one with children and adolescents with developmental disabilities and behavioral needs to teach social and coping skills.

Alice Beatty,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Alice Beatty is a second year doctoral student in the PsyD program at Divine Mercy University. She previously coordinated Virginia’s Identify, Screen, & Refer suicide prevention initiative and served as a supervisor for George Mason University’s Emotional Support Line Program. Outside of the therapy room, Alice enjoys sharing meals and gardening with her family and friends.

Quentin Herman,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Quentin Herman is a second year doctoral student in the Psy.D. program at Divine Mercy University. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Hillsdale College and has spent five years working in emergency shelters. 

 Joseph Guinee,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Joseph Guinee is a second year doctoral student in the Psy.D. program at Divine Mercy University. He has a degree in liberal arts from Thomas Aquinas College. His academic and professional interests center on the role of friendships in human flourishing and the psychodynamic approach to therapy.

 Olivia Perry,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Olivia Perry is a second year doctoral student in the Psy.D. program at Divine Mercy University. She is passionate about using a psychodynamic approach in order to help clients understand themselves more deeply. She is also very open to incorporating religion and/or spirituality in therapy if desired. Olivia aims at tailoring therapy to the uniqueness of each person, and grounding therapy in the idea that each person is unrepeatable, intensely loved by God, and has important contributions to make to the world.

Marcivette Salas,

Practicum (Divine Mercy University)

Marcivette Salas is a second year doctoral student in the Psy.D. program at Divine Mercy University. She  is a first-generation Mexican-Nicaraguan,  with a B.A. in Psychology from Ave Maria University.Marcivette is passionate about expanding access to mental health services for underserved and culturally diverse communities. Outside of her work, she enjoys singing, traveling, and spending time with her big, lively family.  

Mikeira Spriggs, B.S.

Administrative Assistant I (Old Dominion University)