Therapists & Staff of Serenity

Meet Jesse (She/her), a dedicated mental health professional with a background that shines. Holding an MA in Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies (2011), Jesse is both a licensed professional counselor and a registered drama therapists. To learn more about Jesse click here.

Sara (she/her) is an LCSW with over 15 years experience in the mental health field. Sara attended Southern Connecticut State University for her undergraduate degree in Therapeutic Recreation and University of New England for her Masters in Social Work. Sara has experience with all ages and diverse populations including those who are undocumented and struggling with related issues. To learn more about Sara click here.

Sylvia Stevens LCSW (she/her) attended Eastern CT University for her bachelors in Sociology and she attended University of CT for her Masters in Social Work. Sylvia has experience working with diverse populations across the lifespan. Sylvia’s approach to treatment includes building safe and trusting relationships with clients as a foundation in their healing journey. She enjoys working with clients with a history of trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. To learn more about Sylvia click here.

Jen Shea (she/her) LCSW graduated from Springfield College in 2013 with her MSW and has worked in the mental health field since then. She has extensive experience with youth and families involved in the criminal justice system as well as in DCF custody. She is a DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) certified therapist and approaches clients with warmth and understanding. To learn more about Jen click here.

Briana Graham’s (LCSW) passion for mental health led her to Fordham University where she earned her Masters degree in Social work. Briana specializes in supporting clients dealing with depression, grief, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. Her experiences extends to working with and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. To learn more about Briana click here.

Dr. Emily Hotz (She/Her) LPC-A, PhD, graduated in 2022 from the University of New Haven with her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and received her PhD in 2025. She currently teaches as adjunct faculty at SCSU for Master level students. Emily’s approach is positive, accepting, and engaging. To learn more about Emily click here.

Bliss Kern per/pers, LPC-A, joins Serenity as an outpatient therapist working under supervision of Jesse Toth Henderson LPC. As a Queer therapist Bliss brings per passion in treating the gendermmunity. Bliss works from a strength-based, trauma-responsive model. Click here to learn more about Bliss!

Andrea Ruggiero (she/her) is the Office manager for Serenity Wellness. You will interact with her to schedule appointments, for billing matters, and anything else that comes up during your treatment with our practice. Andrea has a bachelor of science from Bentley University in business communications. She does freelance work for individuals and businesses in graphic design, marketing, and advertising.

Christine Tomzyck (She/her) works in the billing office and is a point of contact for billing matters and insurance eligibility.