Meet The Team

Kimberly Briscoe, LCMFT

She/Her/Hers

Program Director

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Greetings Everyone,

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I am the enormously proud program director at FCCC. With an exceptionally talented and thoughtful team, I ensure that systems are in place to ensure the provision of individualized mental health services. I help to manage an eclectic team of therapists who provide clinical services that allow our clients to experience respect, belonging and dignity.

Currently, what I bring to FCCC is my current interest in somatic practices.  I am very curious, and I have a number of questions. How can we better flow through life despite the weight of personal, institutionalized and historical traumas?  How are our bodies, hearts and minds shaped by so many different experiences?  What makes someone feel anchored? What kinds of body and breath practices allow someone to simply feel what’s been avoided?   I bring these kinds of questions to our clinicians to intentionally create a different way of being a therapist.

The most affirmative aspect of my job is the privilege of talking to clients at the first part of their journey with FCCC. I appreciate hearing both the present challenges as well as the future aspirations of our clients as it relates to their interpersonal mending. I am confident that the entire team of FCCC values our partnerships with our clients as together we create the brave space needed to make change happen.

What brings me joy?

Walking on trails in search of a waterfall while encouraging myself to take one more step.

Wearing an apron and preparing a meal for family and friends. My favorite places in my house  are my kitchen and dining room.  Did you know that Snoop Dogg has written a cookbook?  It’s now part of my collection.

Walking through a museum and appreciating the artistry of others.  My next stop is the Baltimore Museum of Art to see a collection called Finding Home which presents the work of Native artists.

Tia S. Brooks, LCSW-C

She/Her/Hers

LGBTQ+ Lived experience and Trans aligned

Clinical Supervisor

Hey y’all!

I am an intuitive, eclectic, affirming, and strengths based supervisor who believes in supporting therapists in honoring their whole selves so that they can honor clients in their authentic nature. I do so by creating a safe and nurturing supervisory space for them to explore their inner workings and create who they get to be freely without judgment.  Furthermore, I support therapists by partnering with them and their internal community to strengthen coping skills, balance life and work, and manage life’s tribulations so that they can be best aligned within and outside of the therapeutic space.

I pride myself in working with provisionally licensed Social Workers from various backgrounds to re-discover their self-actualized beings. It is important that we understand “I am because we are” and how that manifests in our therapeutic and collegial spaces. I am trained in techniques such as Internal Family Systems (IFS),  Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), aspects of forgiveness, modalities of art, and other eclectic techniques to support our therapists in aligning their minds with their hearts and to create a whole-body connection and support clients in doing the same.

I have 10+ years of experience in the Social Work field; from college community activist to Baltimore City community outreach specialist to therapist to supervisor of therapists! Oh the places you CAN go when you remain dedicated and motivated to growing

Fun Facts about Tia:

• -I pride myself in being a Black Identified Multi-racial woman who identifies as Pansexual and an ally to the Trans community.

• -I enjoy swimming and being in nature

• -I enjoy Disney movies and Grey’s Anatomy

• -I enjoy laughing at the most random things and breaking out into song at the greatest moments.

• -I enjoy supporting new Social Workers in their journey through the field; reciprocal learning and growth.

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Jennifer Jones

She/Her/Hers

Office Manager

Hello Potential and Present Clients!

Folks in the office call me Jenny and I would love for you to call me this too! I bring over 5 years of administrative and operations management experience. I love working with teams to support their needs and enhance client experiences. I am dedicated to making sure you have a compassionate first interaction here at First Choice Counseling center. I look forward to speaking, sometimes laughing, with you soon!

Fun Facts about Jenny:
I love to cook and bake
Laughter is the best remedy for a bad day.

Shauna Adams

She/Her/Hers

Office Assistant/Billing Coordinator

Greeting all, 

My name is Shauna, and I am the Office Assistant/Billing Coordinator here at FCCC.  In my role, I manage and oversee the billing process to ensure accurate invoicing and timely payments. I work closely with various insurance companies to resolve discrepancies and maintain strong relationships with clients. My attention to detail and organizational skills help streamline operations and improve financial reporting. In addition to my technical skills,my values are building strong relationships with clients and team members. I believe that clear communication and proactive engagement are key to maintaining trust and ensuring a smooth billing process.

Outside of work I love spending time with my family and close friends . I love reading, traveling, going out to sing karaoke (that's the only time that I think I can sing LOL) and challenging my creative side when doing arts and crafts. 

Tolu Ige, CRNP-PMH

Medical Director

Tolu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a total of six years of experience working with patients with mental health across the lifespan.

Born and raised in Nigeria then moved to Maryland, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Maryland. Went on to work as a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse in various settings, including inpatient psychiatry, Crisis Intervention, home health, Addiction, education, and outpatient psychiatry. Received Master of Science in nursing from Walden University.

Experienced in treating and evaluating a broad range of psychiatric disorders including anxiety and depression, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorder.

One of my main goals as a practitioner is to advocate for my patients and provide awareness about mental health with the aim to remove the stigma around mental illness. I believe in empowering patients to be involved in their treatment plans with the goal of improving their quality of life. 

Morgan Wright, LMSW

Therapist

She/Her/Hers

Accepts Maryland Medicaid and CIGNA/Evernorth

Morgan Wright received her Bachelors in Psychology from Hampton University. Ms. Wright quickly became the Advocating Director for the Child and Youth Program contracted by the U.S Government. Ms. Wright has a deeply rooted passion for mental health and education. Combing both passions, Ms. Wright has created curriculums and widely practiced blueprints in the shaping of early childhood development.

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Later Ms. Wright would receive her Master's in Social Work from the University of Maryland becoming a Licensed Social Worker. Ms. Wright currently provides professional support to both adolescents and adults in areas such as: behavioral issues, anxiety, autism, anger management, depression, social interaction skills, emotional disturbance, trauma and self-esteem. Ms. Wright is also a registered behavior technician, specializing in teaching basic life skills to non-verbal learners who are on the spectrum. 

Rebecca Kaplon, LMSW, 

She/Her/Hers

Therapist

Accepts Maryland Medicaid 

Rebecca Kaplon (she/her/hers) earned her Masters Degree at the University of Maryland School of Social Work. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Towson University. 

Rebecca has experience working with both children and adults. She previously interned with children at Villa Maria. Additionally, she has worked with adults at a PRP and with adults with disabilities. Rebecca really enjoyed connecting and getting to know the clients she worked with as well as providing a listening ear or offering a different perspective. 

Rebecca is very passionate about mental health. She enjoys empowering people to live their best lives by partnering with clients to find their own inner strengths. Rebecca believes that emotions can be experienced in a healthy way and that we can live well with our emotions. Rebecca is compassionate and empathetic. She loves being creative in finding ways to help clients feel their best. Rebecca knows that life can be tough, but she truly believes in her clients’ capabilities to grow and learn to cope.  

In her free time, Rebecca enjoys listening to audio books. Currently, she is enjoying listening to psychological thrillers. Additionally, Rebecca values spending time with her family and friends. She enjoys playing board games and card games with her loved ones. 

Lindsay Bonaparte, LMSW

She/Her/Hers

LGBTQ+ Affirming

Therapist

Accepts Maryland Medicaid 

Hello! I’m a dedicated therapist with extensive clinical experience in both hospital and
community settings. My journey in mental health has led me to specialize as a trauma-informed
clinician, with a particular focus on substance use and support for veterans and military families.
I believe in the power of therapy to foster resilience and healing, and I am passionate about
helping individuals navigate their unique challenges.

I work with a diverse range of clients, from middle childhood to late adulthood, addressing
various issues such as mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and comorbid disorders. My therapeutic
approach is eclectic, drawing from person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy,
dialectical behavior therapy, inner child work, and motivational interviewing. This blend allows
me to tailor my methods to fit each client's unique needs, ensuring a supportive and effective
therapeutic experience.

Outside of my professional life, I embrace creativity and joy. I enjoy playing guitar and often
find peace in picking my way through my favorite tunes. I’m a big fan of RuPaul’s Drag Race
and enjoy celebrating self-expression and artistry. Karaoke nights are my favorite way to
unwind, whether I’m belting out classics or discovering new favorites. I believe that life should
be a harmonious balance of work and play, and I bring this philosophy into my practice,
encouraging clients to find their own joy and passion along the way. 

I look forward to connecting with you and supporting you on your journey to healing and self-
discovery!

Naya Fogo, LPC

Therapist

Accepts Maryland Medicaid and CIGNA/Evernorth

Naya Fogo (pronouns: she/her/hers) holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Temple University and a Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Much of Naya’s clinical experience comes from working in community mental health settings. Naya has experience working with clients from all walks of life but is passionate about working with TAY-aged and adult populations. Naya has expertise working with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. Naya uses person-centered, strength-based approaches incorporating CBT and other evidence-based techniques to help support and empower clients navigating their functioning and overall wellbeing.

Fun facts:

Naya is a foodie and loves to travel.

Naya loves to watch scary movies (no matter what time of year)

Naya enjoys spending time with her family and friends. 

Kimberly Charles, LMSW

She/Her/Hers

Therapist

LGBTQ+ Affirming

Accepts Maryland Medicaid 

Everyone has a vision of how they would like to experience life. I am firm believer when it comes to your care, there is no better person than you to take the lead. Renee Descartes said, "I think therefore I am." What you think will heavily influence how you are. 
My passion is helping others create a less stressful and more satisfying life. Take the first steps to truly experience life the way you've imagined by reaching out today!

I am experienced working with people of all ages who experience trauma, ADHD, anxiety, grief and loss, depression, and bipolar disorders. I hope to always create a space that helps others feel heard and empowered as they safely navigate their thoughts, feelings, and emotions judgement free. 

Therapists are like shoes: sometimes you have to try a couple on to find a good fit but, you'll never find one that fits if you don't try. If you're looking to figure life out or simply regain control at your own pace on terms that work for you, I encourage you to take the first step and reach out today!

Janna Henesch, LCSW-C

Therapist

Accepts Maryland Medicaid and CIGNA/Evernorth

Janna earned her MSW from University of Maryland School of Social Work in 2004. She worked with aging adults and adults with disabilities for 15 years.  More recently, her focus shifted to providing therapeutic services to all ages.

Amongst other areas, Janna has significant experience in the areas of loss, grief, end of life care, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and facilitating support groups. Janna provides individual, family, and couple's therapy. She is completed  her Imago Relations Therapy certification, a specialized relational therapy, which transforms conflict into opportunities for healing and growth and helps move couples towards a more conscious relationship.

Janna enjoys assisting individuals, couples, and families improve their overall functioning, well-being, and interpersonal relationships in a therapeutic and supportive environment.

Dr. George Leary, Psy Associate

Therapist

Accepts Maryland Medicaid and CIGNA/Evernorth

Dr. George Leary holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Child Psychology and a Doctorate in Community Psychology. He is currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Health with a concentration in Global Health.

Dr. Leary is an experienced mental health therapist with work primarily in community settings that specialize in both mental health and substance abuse treatment.

Dr. Leary’s expertise encompasses Africultural and mindfulness-holistic approaches, with an emphasis on promoting optimal emotional functioning. He works primarily with individual adults, focusing on the treatment of depression, anxiety, emotional trauma, stress management, climate change anxiety, racial identity, substance abuse, parenting, family and personal relationships, and life transitions.

Born in Washington, DC, Dr. Leary enjoys family life, painting with acrylics and oils, appreciates diverse musical genres, and is a vegan. He values Pan-African perspectives and is particularly passionate about addressing the climate crisis, viewing it as a central mental health issue, with a special focus on combatingclimate injustice.

Maurine Obi

She/Her/Hers

Intern

Accepts Maryland Medicaid 

Maurine Obi (she/her/hers) is a compassionate and currently pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Salisbury University. Born in Nigeria and having migrated to the USA as a child, Maurine is fluent in Igbo, speaking, reading, and writing the language proficiently. She is deeply committed to supporting vulnerable and marginalized populations, particularly within minority communities in Baltimore City and the greater metro area.

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Maurine's professional experience includes working briefly as a caseworker in Washington, DC, where she provided critical support to individuals with co-occurring disorders, addressing both substance use and mental health issues. Many of her clients were court-ordered to participate in social service programs as an alternative to incarceration, allowing her to develop a deep understanding of the intersection between mental health, substance abuse, and the criminal justice system.

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In addition to her academic and professional pursuits, Maurine is a dedicated advocate for children and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She has worked tirelessly to secure the necessary resources and services for these individuals, navigating complex systems to ensure they receive the support they need despite significant challenges.

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Maurine aims to blend evidence-based practice with her passion for advocacy as she continues to pursue licensure as a clinical social worker. She is committed to providing critical support to individuals facing mental health challenges, substance abuse issues, and developmental disabilities, ensuring they have access to the care and resources they deserve.

Three fun facts about Maurine are:

- Maurine loves to travel, explore new cultures, meet interesting people, and indulge in different cuisines.

- Maurine lived abroad in her early twenties and spent nearly a year in the Caribbean on the beautiful islands of St. Kitts and Nevis.

- Maurine's love for learning about different cultures makes her a natural at connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, both professionally and personally

Kelly Dohony, LCSW-C

Therapist

Accepts Maryland Medicaid and CIGNA/Evernorth

Kelly is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Work (LCSW-C) who has been a child and family therapist for over five years. Kelly started her career working as a school-based therapist providing therapy services for elementary and middle school children experiencing various mental and behavioral health conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma.

Kelly has most recently worked as an outpatient therapist with children, adolescents, and adults. Kelly also has experience providing family therapy to assist families with managing their child’s mental and behavioral health and improving overall functioning. Kelly uses a holistic and person-in-environment approach and aims to address all possible factors that may be impacting a client’s mental health and well-being in order to work towards healing. 

Rebecca “Bex” Wise

Intern

Accepts Maryland Medicaid 

I am a creative, empathetic, trauma-informed clinical intern, and I genuinely want to hear your story. My goal is to support you in finding and accepting the things that make you YOU–messiness, scars, and all. It is my honor and privilege to create a safe therapeutic space where you can work toward healing. Therapy looks different for everyone, and I enjoy customizing traditional talk therapy with art, music, games, or even a walk in the park.

I’m an MSW student and an experienced professional advocate for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault. My previous educational background was in communication, and I spent years in the tech industry translating between mathematically-minded engineers and eclectic, eccentric artists. 

Fun facts:

• Passionate gamer (PS5, iPad, and tabletop)

• Lover of sci-fi and fantasy, but tired of Tolkien

• Favorite dinosaur: T-rex (having a challenge like tiny arms doesn’t mean you can’t be fierce <3 )

Eddie Pickeral, LMSW

Therapist

Accepts Maryland Medicaid 

Mr. Pickeral earned is Masters in Social Work from the University of Maryland, School of Social Work with a specialization in health. He worked at Johns Hopkins Bayview Emergency Department and Baltimore City Public Schools. His background includes working with children, adolescents, and adults with various social, emotional, and behavioral concerns.

Mr. Pickeral has experience in working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance use, and crisis intervention. He is an advocate for disability equity and has experience assisting high school/ college students transitioning to various concerns. 

Mr. Pickeral worked at the British Embassy in the Northern Ireland sector where he specifically researched intergenerational trauma of families and children facing community violence in Belfast and received notable recognition by the Catholic University of America. 

Ian Lenhardt

Accepts Maryland Medicaid 

Ian Lenhardt, Counselor-in-Training, provides a supportive, empathetic, and trusting environment for attaining treatment goals and ensuring clients feel seen. He uses a person centered focus on each client’s individual needs and desires by developing a true connection in therapy for identifying concerns, setting and monitoring goals, discovering solutions that promote self-understanding and improving quality of life. Ian’s goal is to normalize the process of therapy and assist clients in gaining a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. He believes that skillful therapy can produce insight and growth that allows each client the opportunity to create purpose, understanding, and positive change in their lives.

Ian is currently a second-year graduate student, working toward his master’s degree in clinical psychology at Towson University. He has experience working in psychiatric emergency services in a hospital setting which has equipped him with a calm and supportive demeanor. He has worked with an extensive range of clients including clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, trouble controlling anger, and bipolar disorder. He is determined to meet clients, wherever they may be, in navigating their mental health journey. He is interested in working with adults across the lifespan and adolescents struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem or body image issues, anger management issues, relationship issues, and infidelity. In addition to working with individuals experiencing symptoms of mental health conditions, Ian believes all clients are resilient and that it is never too early or late to make the changes one needs to live the life they want to live. 

Ian utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach where he incorporates techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), as well as a strengths based therapeutic approach where he seeks to collaborate with clients to identify their positive qualities to work toward achieving their goals. He believes that a multi-faceted and holistic approach to treatment, taking a client’s emotional, physical, spiritual, personal, relational, social, cultural, and financial situations into account is the most effective way to meet clients where they are at. Ian looks forward to working with any and all individuals who would like to seek help with their mental health.