Therapists
Paul Sawyer, LICSW
I strive to meet you where you are at in any given moment and support you in whatever your goals are for therapy. If you are unsure of goals, we will work together to identify them. I use many different types of therapy, but the ones I find most helpful in the healing process are Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP). I use a strength-based approach by recognizing and using your own inner resources to promote healing and wellness. I am focusing on working with Couples in an interactive and experiential way using Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) and Intimacy From the Inside Out (IFIO). While I have experience working with many different populations, my specialty areas include those trying to manage their relationships, substance use, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Background and Training
I have a B.A. from Stonehill College in Business Administration and a Masters of Clinical Social Work from Boston College. Prior to opening Sawyer Wellness, I have worked in a number of outpatient, residential, and inpatient settings with those struggling with mental health and substance use. In addition, I recently served as the Director of Case Management at an international concierge behavioral health organization. I also was a Consultant to Boston College’s Office of Health Promotion. I have received advanced training in trauma, substance use, and the therapeutic modalities of IFS, AEDP, and EFT for couples. I take pride in working with individuals of every community, ethnicity, and gender from a nonjudgemental perspective; recognizing that every individual is unique.
David Carrigan, LCSW, MSW
David Carrigan, LCSW, MSW, is a licensed clinical therapist. He received his Master's in Clinical Social Work from Boston College and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Political Science from the University of New Hampshire.
David has worked in several capacities within the mental health field including as a Clinical Case Manager with Intent Clinical providing consultation and intensive community-based work, Boston College’s Office of Alcohol and Drug Education as a counselor, a Senior Recovery Specialist at The Center for Motivation and Change: Berkshires, an inpatient substance abuse rehabilitation facility, and as a supervisor for the Key Program, a residential program for adolescents with behavioral issues.
He specializes in working one one-on-one with individuals to set and achieve treatment goals and employs a motivational client-centered approach. David is an experienced group facilitator and active in his local community. He is trained in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. He is a trained SMART Recovery Facilitator and runs a weekly SMART Recovery group and volunteers as a youth mentor.
Caroline Novak, LICSW
As a clinician, I am a firm believer in client focused therapy. I know that coming to therapy is a very vulnerable experience and I hope to work with you through identifying and utilizing the skills that you already have! I am a firm believer in the idea that we are all our own experts of our own story and that is the role of the clinician to guide the client through mastering their own journey. I have experience working with children and adolescents through navigating neurodiversity, anxiety, depression and life's transitional challenges. I also have experience working with parents through supporting their children and managing their own levels of stress that comes with being a parent.
I got my BSW from Wheelock College and then my MSW at Boston College. I have years of experience doing In Home Therapy (IHT) work. I am passionate about working with families and helping to improve their levels of communication in the nuclear family environment. I utilize components of Narrative Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and my approach is always open ended and can be tailored to meet the needs of each individual client.
I genuinely consider it an honor to work with you and I am eager to guide you as you get in touch with your inner strengths and motivation to be the version of yourself that you strive to be.
Michelle Freeman, LICSW
As a therapist, I aim to provide a safe, open, empathetic and trusting space for my clients. I work with individuals of all ages and populations to help cope with life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and relationship issues. While meeting clients where they are, I take a non-judgmental, strengths-based approach to increase self-compassion and self-worth. While I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, I focus on ACT, CBT and trauma informed care, working with my clients on accepting and embracing their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting them.
Background & Training:
I earned my BA in Sociology from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA and my Masters of Social Work from Boston University. I have trained and worked in various hospital and mental health settings, such as Boston Children’s Hospital and Bournewood Hospital in Brookline, MA. At these facilities and others, I treated individuals with psychiatric needs ranging from depressive disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, addiction and psychosis. In addition to working as a therapist, I currently work as a geriatric case manager at a healthcare startup. I have experience working with individuals from diverse social and cultural backgrounds. While having a strong cultural understanding, I also know that each individual is unique, and I strive to learn and keep an open, non-judgmental mindset with each client.
Rachel Holmes, LICSW
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I entered this field to make a difference in the lives of those whose experiences are overlooked or stigmatized by our society. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, relationship distress, communication and more. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
Background & training
I earned my BS in counseling from Lesley University, followed by an MSW from Boston College. I have worked in various settings, inpatient and outpatient, providing treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. I have worked with a wide range of populations and age groups. In addition to working at Sawyer Wellness Group, I also worked as an outpatient therapist in a community health setting, providing care for individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and diagnoses. I have experience working with folks from a wide range of diverse social, cultural, and racial backgrounds. I am passionate about working with clients from all walks of life, and whatever that might bring to the office.
Vickie Tran, LICSW
I am pleased to meet you! As a clinician, I believe in working in the strengths based and person centered model. This is your valuable time, and I hope to help guide you through this journey. I have experience with diverse cultural and social backgrounds with depression, anxiety, difficulties with life transitions and trauma. I aim to help you with your goals to better improve your quality of life.
Background & training
I received my undergraduate degree at the College of the Holy Cross in Psychology with an Asian Studies concentration. I have experience with children, young adults and older adults at a community mental health agency for many years with training surrounding CBT, cultural competency, motivational interviewing and wellness recovery action plans. I received my Masters in Social work at Wheelock College. In additon to providing therapy, I currently am a Director of Social Services for a nursing facility providing case management, medical social work, and advocating rights for the elderly population. I take pride in welcoming people of diverse backgrounds and I also enjoy learning about others. Everyone is unique in their own way and I strive to support you in your therapeutic journey.
Christopher Baker, LICSW, CAADC
I am a fully licensed therapist in Massachusetts and Rhode Island and also a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I see patients across the lifespan; from pre-teens to older adults. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with depression, substance use disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders, relationship issues and a multitude of other clinical matters. I also enjoy working with couples and families who are working to explore and work on the dynamics that exist within such relationships. I use a multifaceted approach to therapy and incorporate tenets of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Background & training
I received my undergraduate education at The University of Rhode Island where I double majored in Political Science and Sociology. Upon completion of my undergraduate studies, I pursued a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Rhode Island College where I completed clinical training through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Providence VA Medical Center. I was trained in working with individuals suffering from severe and persistent psychiatric diagnoses including, but not limited to, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and Major Depressive Disorder. After graduate school, I provided consultation to a private health care company on managing the clinical care of the veteran population within their facilities. I then served as the Assistant Chief of Clinical Operations of an international concierge behavioral health organization. In addition, I have a wide range of professional experience in inpatient psychiatric settings, partial hospitalization settings, community mental health.
"Individual evolution is often the product of a collective process" is a belief system that defines my therapeutic approach. I really value working with individuals of all cultures and ethnicities. I consider it an honor for individuals, like you, to share your unique culture, community, and life with me.
Christina Brown, LMHC
As a dedicated and compassionate licensed mental health counselor, I am committed to meeting individuals and couples where they are on their journey to healing within a safe and supportive environment, as well as fostering a space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make positive changes. My approach to therapy is integrative; and with a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness practices, I strive to empower individuals to help themselves achieve positive changes in their lives. With couples, I work with them to communicate and hear each other in ways that they have not before. This allows for a deeper connection to move through life together with more ease. With extensive experience working with folks from all walks of life, I am dedicated to working with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, cultures, genders, and orientations to navigate their challenges, and in tandem, uncover their inherent strengths. In addition to my role as a therapist at Sawyer Wellness Group, I serve as the Director of the Brockton Comprehensive Treatment Center, overseeing an Opioid Treatment Program and an Office-Based Addictions Treatment Program.
Background & Training:
My academic journey began at Roger Williams University, where I pursued my undergraduate degree and cultivated a passion for understanding human behavior and promoting mental wellness. I continued my education at Bridgewater State University, where I obtained a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology. Throughout my education and professional career, I have gained extensive experience working across various levels of care with individuals, couples, and family systems, comprising of inpatient settings including psychiatric hospitals, detoxes and rehabilitation centers, and outpatient settings including partial hospital programs, Substance Use Disorder and Alcohol Use Disorder programs, as well as research programs working alongside experts in the mental health and substance use fields. Additionally, my work within the LGBTQ+ community has enriched my understanding of diverse perspectives and unique challenges for individuals in marginalized communities, as well as reinforced my commitment to providing inclusive and affirming care.
I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for healing and growth, and I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative partnership with each of my clients. I am truly excited for the opportunity to join you on your life's journey and work alongside you, as you explore your inner-self, and unearth your capability to yield unrelenting personal growth.
Freddie Palmer, LICSW
As a clinician, I utilize humor, unconditional positive regard, and curiosity to create a safe and productive space for my clients. I use a strengths-based approach to support my clients in creating and meeting their counseling goals. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma informed practices, mindfulness practices, and motivational interviewing.
As a former teacher turned therapist, I have developed a strong counseling tool box. I specialize in supporting young adults and adults find ways to cope with trauma and loss, manage anxiety and depression, develop problem solving strategies and social skills, overcome low self-esteem, and manage family conflict. I am also able to help my clients develop executive functioning and advocacy skills at school, home, and in the community.
I have practiced in a variety of settings including residential treatment, community based counseling, and school counseling. I know that by creating positive, collaborative, and consistent therapeutic relationships with my clients, we can work together to increase their insight and meet their goals.
Background & Training:
I attended Clark University in Worcester, MA and earned a BA in psychology. I continued at Clark for my Masters of Arts and Teaching. I worked as a middle school teacher in both public and charter schools for 5 years, gaining valuable experience, before deciding to go back to school for my Masters of Social Work at Simmons University in Boston, MA. At Simmons, I specialized in School Social Work and working with children and families. In addition to working as a therapist, I currently work as a school social worker at a high school in Hyde Park.
I have experience examining the impact of societal constructs and political climate on the intersectionality of race, gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity. I have worked with diverse populations and am passionate about continuing to support clients from every community.
David Mattei, LCSW
Using a person-centered and strengths-based model, I seek to create a supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. Helping clients uncover underlying patterns and unresolved conflicts that may contribute to their mental health challenges is at the heart of my practice. By gaining insight into these dynamics, clients can experience profound personal growth and make positive changes in their lives. Understanding the impact of thoughts and behaviors on emotional well-being, I incorporate cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to assist clients in identifying and modifying negative thinking patterns. Through practical strategies and skills development, clients can cultivate healthier coping mechanisms and improve their overall quality of life. I have experience working with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges and mood disorders, including substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, and other related conditions. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I help empower clients to live more fulfilling, meaningful, and purpose-driven lives.
Background & training
I earned my BA from Trinity College and Master's in Clinical Social Work from Simmons University. I completed my practicum training at the Boston Public Health Commission and The Brookline Center for Community Mental Health, where I specialized in psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), relational therapy, and existential analysis. I have practiced adult individual therapy, addiction and mental health counseling, case management, and coaching in a variety of outpatient programs, mental health centers, and in private practice. I welcome the opportunity to work with diverse populations. I aim to maintain a cultural humility that genuinely attempts to understand a person's identities related to race and ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, and social needs.
Marie Palmier, LICSW
I am a licensed mental health clinician who uses a compassionate and authentic style to provide clients with a space where they can feel safe and comfortable as they work towards their preferred life. I have experience working with young to older adults facing depression, anxiety, chronic or terminal illness, grief and loss, addiction, relationship issues, and life transitions. Every client has their own story and unique needs. I take a non-judgmental and strength-based therapeutic approach using a variety of treatment modalities.
Background & Training:
I earned a B.A. in Psychology from New York University and a Master of Clinical Social Work from Simmons University. I've gained extensive mental health training and work experience at leading hospitals in the Boston area, providing outpatient psychotherapy services to a diverse adult population, and using various therapeutic modalities including CBT, MI, SFBT, MI, and ACT. I also teach mindfulness and stress management techniques to improve emotional functioning and wellbeing. Your needs and goals will steer our work together.
Languages and Cultural Competency:
I am a bilingual/bicultural therapist and provide therapy in English and Spanish. I have work experience and cultural understanding of many different communities in the Greater Boston area.
Mark Joyce, LMHC
As a licensed mental health clinician, I utilize a combination of evidence-based interventions and genuine compassion, empathy, and belief in growth through the therapy process. My background is in cognitive behavioral therapy, with training in dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I have experience working with teenagers and adults of all ages in addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, life transitions, and trauma. I am also interested in the role technology plays in one’s experience of mental health symptoms and have completed research on the impact of smartphone addiction in college age individuals.
Background & training
I attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst and obtained a BA in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. After several years of working in children and adolescent inpatient programs, I received my Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology at Assumption College. While at Assumption College, I worked as a research fellow observing the link between adverse childhood experiences and college age functioning, as well as the connection between smartphone addiction and psychological well-being in college age individuals.
Since obtaining my Graduate Degree, I have worked with adults in outpatient substance use treatment and community based mental health treatment. My experience in working with a wide range of populations with varying goals will allow us to work collaboratively toward your goals and ambitions. I have experience working with folks from a wide range of diverse social, cultural, and racial backgrounds. I am passionate about working with clients from all walks of life, and whatever that might bring to the office.