Meet our staff

I have a warm, friendly, eclectic approach to therapy. I enjoy working with all age groups and many presenting problems, diagnoses.

Audrey is a strengths-based clinician who firmly believes in meeting her clients at their own unique starting line.

I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in treating depression and anxiety in adults and teens.

Mental Health support is not a luxury but a human right. Life is overwhelming and, at times, tough to deal with; well, you are not alone. I am passionate about helping others cope and manage the stressors that life brings daily and with the right coping skills and tools that I will teach you, I know you’ll overcome many things life throws at you.

I have been working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages for over 18 years.

My goal is for individuals to feel heard and supported by the services that I provide. I believe in using an eclectic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of interventions to meet the needs of each client. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, daily stress or adjusting to new life circumstances, I am here to help you find your inner strength and resiliency.

Janelle has been working with individuals and families of all ages for 8 years.

I use my Holistic education and training in my approach to helping people heal and become whole again.

Hello, my name is Matthew Dunton, LICSW. I have 8+ years of experience providing clinical treatment to diverse populations

Hi! My name is Patti, and I enjoy working with a diverse clientele of children, adolescents, and adults.

Hi, I'm Ryan. I have over ten years of experience as a social worker, aiding individuals, families, and their communities.

As a mental health therapist, I am a trained and licensed professional who provides therapy to individuals, couples, families to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Hello, my name is Wendy Blackburn, MSW. I am currently working on obtaining my clinical license here at Brightside Behavioral Health.

As a mental health therapist, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals, couples, children, and families overcome mental health challenges and strengthen their relationships.

Hi, I am Breanna. I am a trauma-informed mental health counselor committed to providing a safe and brave space for clients to learn how to build a healthy relationship with their minds and bodies.

Hi! My name is Genna, and I am a mental health counselor. I am committed to creating a welcoming, safe space for clients to process their thoughts and feelings. I utilize a person-centered approach and ensure that the client’s preferences, needs, and values are being met. I pride myself in treating others with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Chinwe "Linda" is a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Social Services from the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Master's in nursing (MSN), specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), from Walden University.

I firmly believe that seeking counseling is an act of strength, and I commend you for taking this important step towards self-discovery and healing.

Welcome! I'm Jessa, a dedicated Mental Health Therapist based in beautiful Rhode Island. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve mental well-being. With extensive experience and a compassionate approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for clients to heal and grow.

My name is Mariah, and I'm a dedicated mental health counselor here. At Brightside, we prioritize your well-being and strive to create a nurturing environment where you can embark on your therapeutic journey.

Hello there! I'm Ashley, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in social services and behavioral health. Over my seven years of practice in various settings, I have developed a strong commitment to providing the support you need.

With a wealth of experience supporting clients through substance use, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and familial/relationship issues, I am driven by a genuine passion for helping others. My approach is rooted in meeting clients where they are, offering tailored support, problem-solving skills, and coping techniques to navigate their concerns and foster personal growth and improved relationships.

Greetings, I'm Lindsey, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My passion lies in working with individuals across all age groups, with a primary focus on children, adolescents, and families. With a decade of experience in the human services field, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice. Specializing in children, adolescents, families, and parenting, I offer a comprehensive range of support.

With a Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Studies and a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling, I bring a comprehensive and empathetic approach to counseling. Specializing in working with adolescents and young adults, I understand the significance of the self-discovery process during this transformative period. By focusing on strengths and resilience, I help clients build a foundation for emotional well-being and equip them with lifelong skills for a healthy mental state. Rest assured, in my safe and confidential environment, your story will be heard without judgment as you openly explore your thoughts and emotions.

Hello my name is Rachelle, a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Brightside Behavioral Health with nearly a decade of experience in supporting vulnerable children, youth, and families in Rhode Island. Specializing in working with adolescents, young and older adults, and families. By integrating evidence-based interventions such as strengths-based, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered, family systems, and culturally sensitive techniques, I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space for growth and healing. Empower yourself to make positive changes and achieve your goals with me as your dedicated clinician.

Cindy J. Johnson is a certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) specializing in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy. Cindy has 19 years of experience as an APRN, primarily focusing on community mental health. Her expertise includes a comprehensive understanding of behavioral health medications tailored to individual patient needs, promoting evidence-based practices.

Allison is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Associate with a master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy from the University of Rhode Island. She is dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through a range of challenges and life transitions. Allison fosters a secure and supportive therapeutic environment, focusing on clients’ strengths and unique experiences. Her systemic approach considers the influence of family dynamics, relationships, and life events on each client’s well-being.

Claudia Anukam is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. She works closely with clients to develop personalized, holistic treatment plans that address unique needs and support lasting recovery.

David Lussier is a dedicated therapist with 27+ years of experience, specializing in substance abuse and mental health treatment. His client-centered, holistic approach integrates evidence-based therapies to empower clients through recovery and build lasting, positive change.

Lesley is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) passionate about helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. She specializes in supporting children, teens, and adults through difficult emotions and transitions, offering a range of evidence-based approaches like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and mindfulness. Lesley provides culturally sensitive care in both English and Spanish, helping clients build resilience and thrive.

Buthaina Nader is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate with a Master’s in Couples and Family Therapy. She works with adults (18+) experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Using a systemic, compassionate approach, Buthaina helps clients understand how their relationships and histories shape their lives, empowering them to grow into their most authentic selves.

Olga Gorea, PMHNP, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative care for adults. With a warm and direct approach, she blends medication management, evidence-based therapy, and trauma-informed practices—including EMDR—to support individuals facing mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and co-occurring substance use. Drawing on her experience in correctional and detox settings, especially with women in early recovery, Olga offers deeply empathetic and comprehensive care. She emphasizes collaboration, mindfulness, and whole-person healing, helping clients build stability, reconnect with themselves, and move forward with confidence.

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in medication management and take a collaborative, educational approach to care. When we begin working together, we’ll explore your work life, lifestyle, health history, and goals to develop a personalized treatment plan. My focus is on reducing distressing symptoms and helping you restore a sense of calm and resilience. Medication is never the first or only option—it’s one part of a comprehensive, holistic plan that may also include lab work, genetic testing, supplements, nutrition, and sleep support. I work with clients of all ages, especially adults navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and panic. You’ll find me empathetic, nonjudgmental, and committed to helping you feel your best.