Our Staff

Dr. Julie Morison started HPA/LiveWell in 2010 after serving as Director of Psychological Services for the Northeast Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders. She remains on faculty at Albany Medical Center where she provides education and awareness training on eating disorders for providers throughout the region. Dr. Morison received her Doctoral Degree from SUNY Buffalo. As Program Director for the LiveWell Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Dr. Morison continues to lead the clinical treatment team to meet the needs of the community. Dr. Morison has been recognized by CDPHP and Empire BlueCross BlueShield for her leadership through the COVID19 pandemic, and she has become the leading voice in awareness and education on disordered eating. Clinically, Dr. Morison specializes in group-based intervention, body image dysmorphia, personality disorders and anxiety disorders. The best advice Dr. Morison once received: “If you don’t own it, you can’t change it, and if you can’t change it, you have to let it go.”

Abigail Guenther received Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the College of Saint Rose after first completing a bachelor's degree in psychology with the College. Abigail began her professional career working in substance use recovery facilities with women and children. Prior to joining the HPA/LiveWell team as a clinical intern, Abigail worked for several years in residential mental health treatment for adolescents and families and supported safe transitions back into the community. Abigail’s therapeutic perspective draws heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Existential Theory. Outside of work, Abigail can be found hunting for the best espresso in the capital district.

Allison R. Oliver, LMHC, received her Bachelor's Degree from the State University of New York at Albany and her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counselling from the College of Saint Rose. She is a member of American Counseling Association and the New York Mental Health Counselors Association.

Ms. Oliver specializes in treating adolescents and adults with eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. She utilizes CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Humanistic Therapy, SFBT (Solution-Focused Brief Therapy), Mindfulness Practices, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).

She is a volunteer at Double H Ranch which provides specialized camp experiences for children and their families dealing with life-threatening illnesses.

Ms. Brandi Surridge earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Human Services from Lyndon State College in Vermont and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the State University of New York at Albany. Before joining the team at HPA/LiveWell, Ms. Surridge worked with children and families that were affected by trauma. Part of her role was to work with a multidisciplinary team to assist with child abuse investigations to reduce the amount of residual trauma to the child and family while navigating multiple helping systems. Ms. Surridge has formal training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Partent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Problematic Sexualized Behaviors Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT). Brandi offers an eclectic approach focusing on the therapeutic relationship. She believes in genuine connection between therapist and client and this can be a strong caveat for change. Some of the best advice Brandi has gotten is: “if nothing changes, nothing changes.” 

Carli Vooris, LMSW, received her bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Neuroscience from Union College and attained her Master of Social Work degree at the College of Saint Rose. Carli utilizes an integrated, person-centered approach stemming from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. Carli’s professional career started with working with homeless Veterans in the Capital Region and has prior experience working within a school’s counseling department. The best piece of advice she has received was “Two truths can be happening at the same time.”

Dr. Bott, LCSW, attended Bowling Green State University for undergraduate studies before earning a Master’s in Social Work from San Francisco State University and a PhD in Social Welfare from the State University of New York at Albany. With more than two decades of experience as a clinical social worker and professor in New York and California, Dr. Bott is currently an associate professor in the Social Work Department of Siena College. She is also a member of the National Association of Social Workers, At HPA Live/Well, Dr. Bott’s areas of specialty are personality disorders, depression, anxiety, LGTBQ+, and crisis and suicide intervention. For therapeutic intervention, her treatment approach focuses on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic therapies along with elements of mindfulness. Dr. Bott works with individuals, families, and couples to promote personal and interpersonal growth. Dr. Bott not only values positive therapeutic relationships and is dedicated to educating aspiring students.

D’Arcy Andrushko received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Siena College. She also attained her Master’s Degree in Social Work through the Advanced Standing Program at The College of Saint Rose.

Ms. Andrushko began her professional career working with substance use and domestic violence in the Capital Region. Before joining the HPA/LiveWell team, she worked in a hospital setting for several years. Ms. Andrushko has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her therapeutic approach incorporates CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.

The best advice Ms. Andrushko has received is, “If you change nothing, nothing will change.” An interesting fact about her is her love for music of all genres.

Donna Askew, RN, received her degree from the Junior College of Albany, Division of Russell Sage College. She began her nursing career in the Pediatric Unit at St. Peter's Hospital in Albany, NY. Following her love of helping children and families in need, Ms. Askew joined the staff at the Center for Disability Services where she led a state-funded respite program that offered medically fragile children the opportunity to leave their home to attend school daily in a safe medical environment. Ms. Askew currently serves as a Registered Nurse at St. Peter's Addiction Recovery Center (SPARC). The best advice she once received: “Be passionate, stay true to your beliefs and values, take risks and love what you do.”

Dr. Drew Anderson completed his doctoral training in Psychology at Louisiana State University and postdoctoral training at the Weight and Eating Disorders Program at the University of Pennsylvania Medical College.

Dr. Anderson is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the University at Albany-SUNY, leading an active research program focused on the assessment and treatment of eating disorders, body image disturbance and psychological and medical problems associated with obesity. Dr. Anderson has authored many scientific papers and book chapters and presented numerous times at professional conferences. He is a Fellow at the Academy for Eating Disorders (FAED), and a member of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, the Academy for Eating Disorders, and the Eating Disorders Research Society

At HPA/LiveWell, Dr. Anderson specializes in treating eating disorders, body image, and anxiety disorders with various treatment approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).

Dr. Elana Gordis is licensed in New York State with specialized training in couples and family therapy and treating post-traumatic stress disorder. Dr. Gordis received a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Yale University, before earning a PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Southern California. Her post-doctoral training at UCLA focused on treating child and adolescent anxiety and depression. In addition to her clinical work at HPA/LiveWell, Dr. Gordis is a Professor of Psychology at the University at Albany, SUNY. Her research program focuses on adjusting to the effects of exposure to family and community violence have on adolescents and young adults.

Elizabeth Chamberlain, MHC-LP, earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Siena College and a Master's Degree in Clinical Menal Health Counseling from the College of Saint Rose, and is a member of the American Counseling Association.

Ms. Chamberlain specializes in the development and implementation of comprehensive mental health counseling therapy programs to diverse populations and ages. She is adept at handling complex cases, including eating disorders, life changes, suicidality, anxiety, and depression, using evidence-based therapeutic approaches and tailored treatment plans.

Ms. Chamberlain is passionate about empowering minds and transforming lives through empathetic, client-centered counseling services while nurturing a safe, supportive environment. Additionally, she encourages personal growth and empowerment through assessing clients' needs, developing treatment plans, and implementing evidence-based interventions.

Grisha received her bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of North Dakota and her master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from the State University of New York at Albany. Prior to her role as Case Manager, Grisha was part of the HPA administrative team and completed her clinical internship within the Intensive Outpatient Program. Grisha is passionate about fostering a safe and supportive environment where she can collaborate with clients and listen to their stories while helping them navigate life’s challenges and stressors. A piece of advice that Grisha values: Do it scared! 

Dr.  Acker earned a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University, a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, and a PhD in Social Welfare at The University at Albany School of Social Welfare.  Dr. Acker has extensive experience in mental health practice, education, and leadership, working across clinical, academic, and supervisory settings, supporting both clients and emerging professionals in their development.                                                                                              

Dr. Acker’s clinical work focuses on supporting individuals navigating anxiety, grief, life transitions, and complex emotional experiences. She brings particular expertise in recovery-oriented care, evidence-based practice, and the integration of mental health treatment within broader life contexts, including work, relationships, and identity. Her supervisory approach is grounded in a deep understanding of how systems, environments, and lived experiences shape mental health and well-being.  She is particularly interested in helping clinicians navigate complexity, uncertainty, and the relational dynamics inherent in therapeutic work.  She is passionate about supporting both clients and clinicians in developing insight, resilience, and a stronger sense of agency in their lives and work and believes that meaningful change occurs within a context of trust, curiosity, and respect. 

 

Jenna M. Gallo, LCSW, earned both her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master's Degree in Social Work from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany.  Throughout her studies, Jenna worked as an undergraduate and graduate research assistant for various research projects.  

Prior to joining HPA/LiveWell, Jenna worked with local schools and community agencies to provide consultation, professional development seminars, and therapeutic services for individuals, groups, and families. Throughout Jenna’s experience, she has developed a specialty in working with clients who have intellectual/developmental disabilities, childhood behavioral disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder/Neurodiversity, trauma, eating disorders, and anxiety disorders.   

Jenna uses a holistic and integrative therapeutic approach which stems from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Practices, somatic therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.  Jenna’s attention to detail, dedication to collaborative work, and trauma informed training/background allows her to create a safe and supportive space for the clients in her care to explore and make positive change.  Outside of work, Jenna is a registered yoga teacher who enjoys engaging and teaching classes to manage and improve mental health.   

The best advice she’s ever received: “Vulnerability and sensitivity are not weaknesses, they are superpowers.” 

Jessica Carlson, RD, received her Master's Degree in Dietetics & Nutrition from Russell Sage
College after first completing her Bachelor's Degree in psychology from SUNY Oneonta. Prior to joining the HPA/Livewell team as a Registered Dietitian, Jessica began her professional career during her dietetic internship gaining experience in clinical, outpatient, and school settings within the field of dietetics. Jessica is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food, find food freedom and improve health outcomes through nutrition. In her free time she enjoys baking homemade sourdough bread. Her favorite quote is: "There are no inherently "good" or "bad" foods—every food is created for a purpose and exists for a reason."

Joan Horgan, LMSW, received her bachelor’s degree from the College of Saint Rose in sociology/social work concentration and went on to attain her Masters of Social Work degree from the State University of New York at Albany. Ms. Horgan started her professional career in school counseling with junior high and high school students. From there she went on to work for many years at the College of Saint Rose both as an adjunct faculty member and as part of the network of student development staff supporting the well-being of college students. Her experience has been in working with grief and loss, identity, negotiating relationships and finding one's way through life transitions. She feels it is important to access a variety of treatment approaches but has a particular interest in the person-centered humanistic approach and also how arts of various types can be useful in the therapeutic process. 

The best advice she has received? To keep a sense of humor as an important friend in ones life. 

Katherine Wells earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the State University of New York at Albany. Prior to joining HPA/LiveWell full-time, Ms. Wells worked to support those in foster care, substance and addiction treatment and HIV care center. In addition, she was an Adjunct Professor at Empire State College. At HPA/LiveWell, Ms. Wells specializes in eating disorders, substance abuse, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders and gender identity. She uses a wide variety of treatment approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy. The best advice she once received: “Let go or be dragged with stress in life.”

Kristen Caridi, LMHC earned a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from the State University of New York at Albany. Ms. Caridi’s career in behavioral health started at HPA/LiveWell as the IOP Case Manager for three years prior to transitioning to her role as a group and individual therapist. Ms. Caridi’s areas of specialty include eating disorders, body image issues and anxiety. Ms. Caridi leads the Teen Eating Disorder (TED) Group. Her treatment approach consists of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Practices, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy, all centered around self-compassion. Prior to her career in mental health, Ms. Caridi graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology with her BFA degree in International Fashion Design. The best advice Ms. Caridi once received: “You can’t hate yourself into a version of yourself you can love.”

Laura Libruk, LMHC, earned a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University at Buffalo. Laura uses an integrated, person-centered approach, with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness. Laura has a particular interest in self-compassion and wellness interventions. Laura has experience working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders, athletes, and a wide range of mental health disorders. Prior to her career in mental health, Laura received her undergraduate degree from the University at Buffalo where she was on the Division 1 Cross country and track and field teams. Laura owns two Canine Good Citizen dogs, Moose and Nova, who are on their way to become therapy dogs. Laura’s favorite quote is “You can do anything but not everything.”

Marianne Nettina is an experienced ANCC certified Nurse Practitioner whose current practice focus is primarily in the mental health field, providing medication management as well as therapeutic guidance to her patients.

Ms. Nettina completed her RN training in Buffalo, NY, and her graduate work at Syracuse University, achieving credentials as a Nurse Practitioner in Adult Health. She went on to complete a Post Master’s Certificate in Psychiatry/Mental Health from Stony Brook University. 

She has a broad professional background. She provided management and supervision as director of Surgical Services while in Syracuse, practiced in New York City and Glens Falls in Radiation Oncology and was the primary Nurse Practitioner for a large Gastroenterology practice in Pennsylvania. As an educator, she has trained nurse practitioners as a preceptor at Columbia University in NY city and as an associate professor at SUNY Adirondack.

Since her arrival in Albany in 2011, she has worked with patients suffering from substance use disorders, eating disorders, most recently in private practice in psychiatry serving patients across the lifespan, inclusive of the senior population as well as LGBTQ+ and trans patients.

Matthew received his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Cazenovia College and Master’s Degree in Community Mental Health Counseling from the College of Saint Rose. Mr. Holmes continues to serve his alma mater - The College St. Rose - as a member of the Advisory Board Committee. At HPA/LiveWell, he specializes in treating eating disorders using CBT with an emphasis on Solution Focused interventions, behavioral activation and mindsets. Mr. Holmes also provides therapy services to address interpersonal and adjustment issues, anxiety disorders, depression, and other mood disorders. His treatment philosophy: “discomfort is a building block for change.” Prior to joining HPA/LiveWell full time, Mr. Holmes worked as a school administrator and therapist in residential settings.

Melina Lisosky, LMSW, attended The University at Albany, SUNY for her Bachelor's degree of the arts, with a major in psychology before earning her Master of Science in Psychology from the college of Grand Canyon University and a Master of Social Work degree from the College of Saint Rose. Melina’s therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered, Strength-Based, and Mindfulness Practices. Her career began providing ABA therapy with children as young as 3 through adolescence, later completing an internship at Albany Academy where she introduced counseling and mindfulness to children as young as 4. Melina also gained clinical experience at Albany Medical Center's Outpatient Psychiatry Department, where she provided therapy for  adults facing a wide range of mental health disorders.

Something to think about, the next time you think something is impossible, I encourage you to think deeper about the word impossible, because all I see is I’M POSSIBLE! 

Dr. Melissa Them attended Alfred University for undergraduate studies and earned her Doctoral Degree from the University of Albany. She is a member of the American Psychology Association and the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies. Dr. Them is a psychologist specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy for children, adolescents and adults. She provides individual psychotherapy for patients ages six and up, as well as family therapy and parent training for parents with children of any age. Her areas of specialty include behavior disorders of childhood (ie: ADHD, oppositionality), generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive anxiety, social anxiety, depression, dysthymia, and adjustment disorders. Dr. Them has extensive experience in psychoeducational assessment and provides these services to children, adolescents and adults, including consultation with schools where appropriate. In her spare time, Dr. Them enjoys baking and decorating cakes and cupcakes for her friends and family.

Dr. Patricia Bradway received her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Antioch New England Graduate School. She also holds a Master's Degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. 

Dr. Bradway provides individual and couple therapy for adults.  She believes in a practical approach to solving life’s problems. She can offer a new perspective, compassionate listening, or specific strategies. Dr. Bradway specializes in relationships, aging and midlife concerns, women’s issues, and eating/body image concerns as well as depression and anxiety in their many forms.  

 Dr. Bradway uses a variety of treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Psychodynamic therapy, and Solution-Focused therapy. She also encourages and practices a holistic, wellness approach to emotional health and work/life balance.  

Dr Bradway’s favorite quote is “Tell me what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” 

With over two decades of experience, Rebecca is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified School Counselor who brings deep compassion, insight, and clinical expertise to her work with teens, adults, and couples. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from SUNY Oneonta (2003), a Master of Science in School Counseling from Sage Graduate School (2005), and became a licensed LMHC in 2020. 

Rebecca's background includes years of experience as a high school counselor and mental health practitioner at a child and family counseling center in Sarasota, Florida. Her clinical practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Person-Centered counseling. 

A certified specialist in Maternal Mental Health, Rebecca developed a particular passion for supporting clients through perinatal and postpartum challenges after becoming a parent herself in 2011. She helps individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, stress management, and the emotional complexities of pregnancy, parenthood, and beyond. 

Rebecca’s style is collaborative, supportive, and grounded in practical tools for lasting change. She works to create a safe and affirming space where clients can gain clarity, build resilience, and move forward with confidence. 

Rebecca Tebano, LMHC, earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from SUNY Oswego and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The College of Saint Rose. She is a member of the American Counseling Association.

Ms. Tebano specializes in treating adolescents, adults, and families for eating disorders. She also offers Solution Focused Therapy with a humanistic, personalized approach. Ms. Tebano provides a safe space for people to feel welcome and relaxed in sharing their concerns.

The best advice Ms. Tebano once received: “The time will pass either way, it’s up to you how you spend it”.

Dr. Ross Krawczyk earned his PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of South Florida, studying in the Body Image Research Group. He completed his pre-doctoral internship at James A. Haley VA Medical Center with rotations in Health and Medical Psychology, PTSD, Neuropsychology, and Rehabilitation. 

Dr. Krawczyk is a Professor of Psychology at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. He maintains an active research program examining sociocultural influences, psychological factors, and health outcomes related to eating, body image, and weight. Dr. Krawczyk is a member of the Academy for Eating Disorders and the American Psychological Association. 

At HPA/Livewell, Dr. Krawczyk specializes in the treatment of disordered eating, specifically binge eating, body image, weight-related, and anxiety-related disorders. He primarily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) in his therapy sessions.  

Tammy Weber is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist with 20 years’ experience in nutrition counseling for eating disorders. She earned a bachelor's degree in business from Villanova University and graduated from the Registered Dietitian/Nutrition program at Russell Sage College.

Ms. Weber provides individual and group nutrition counseling for eating disorders through our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and individual appointments, ensuring a personal meal plan for each individual.

Ms. Weber is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and leads community education presentations on eating disorders, body image, sports nutrition, healthy heart eating, wellness and a lifestyle change of eating habits.