We are currently accepting new clients
Meet the Team
Dana Freeman, LICSW, CGS, Co-owner, Clinical Director
Stephanie Des Chenes, LICSW, Co-owner, Director of Operations
Stephanie Des Chenes, LICSW, Co-owner, Director of Operations
Struggling with mental health challenges can feel overwhelming. Trauma does not simply live in memory; it lives in the nervous system, within relationships, and in the body. Having access to clinicians who truly understand the complexity of trauma's imprint can optimize the healing process. This is the driving force behind my cofounder Stephanie Des Chenes and I, creating a therapy practice devoted to trauma informed care. I have been practicing for over a decade and hold an MSW, LICSW and Certificate in Graduate Studies in Child and Adolescent Trauma. I am a member of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. I have dedicated my career to understanding the nuanced ways traumatic stress shapes human development, attachment, identity, and functioning across the lifespan. I work primarily with survivors of abuse, complex trauma, childhood neglect, and relational trauma. My approach integrates an understanding of traumatic stress physiology, attachment patterns, and developmental impact. I support clients of all ages in feeling seen and empowered. In addition, I am passionate about advancing trauma informed systems through professional training, consultation, and community education.
Stephanie Des Chenes, LICSW, Co-owner, Director of Operations
Stephanie Des Chenes, LICSW, Co-owner, Director of Operations
Stephanie Des Chenes, LICSW, Co-owner, Director of Operations
I began my social work career in 2007 working with displaced youth where I developed a deep understanding of the complex challenges faced by those impacted by trauma, instability, and systemic barriers. I also discovered early on how underinformed society has been with respect to the impact trauma exposure has on all levels. After pursuing an MSW from Boston University, I earned my clinical license and began working with Dana Freeman, LICSW to build a private practice designed to treat individuals and families, and address gaps in services that can deter the healing process. Dana and I agree that this starts with education and exposing the public to what trauma is and how we can address it responsively across environments. We do this through direct clinical practice, community-based consultation and education. I am committed to clinical work that is rooted in collaboration, authenticity, and respect for each client's unique story. I use an empowerment-focused, strengths-based approach, drawing from a wide range of modalities including IFS, TF-CBT, CPT, and narrative therapy.
Emily Pickering, LCSW
Emily Pickering, LCSW
Emily Pickering, LCSW
I come to Heal RI with a decade of experience in working with children, youth, adults, and families impacted by trauma. Utilizing trauma-focused principles, combined with my background in victim advocacy, I bring a strengths-based approach that is both motivational and client centered. I incorporate psychoeducation, skills-based techniques, and the mind body connection into my work. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives and my goal is to create a safe and supportive space for you to explore the impact of your environment, your thoughts, feelings, and decisions in order to foster healing and growth. I hold a masters degree in Social Work from Boston University and specialize in working with adolescents and young adults.
Maya Sunderland, LICSW
Emily Pickering, LCSW
Emily Pickering, LCSW
My primary goal as a therapist is to create a safe and warm environment where you can explore your inner world, enhance emotional well-being, improve overall functioning, and navigate the many challenges of life. I have experience working with all ages in a variety of settings. I utilize a strength based and collaborative approach with use of cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, expressive and play based techniques. I have a master’s degree in Social Work from Rhode Island College, and am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Rhode Island.
Susie Burkhard, LMHC-A
Emily Pickering, LCSW
I bring experience working closely with children, adolescents, adults, and families facing intense emotional and behavioral challenges. My background in in-home therapy has shaped my commitment to showing up with warmth, flexibility, and compassion. I focus on building strong, trusting relationships and creating a space where clients feel safe, supported, and empowered. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and evidence- and strength-based. I hold a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am an Associate Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC-A) in Rhode Island.
Michele Marcello, LCSW
I was first introduced to social work as an undergraduate at Providence College where I graduated with my Bachelors in social work in 1999. After 12 years of working in the field with children and families, it became clear to me that my path as a clinical social worker had already begun. I received my masters in Social Work from Boston University in 2015, received my license to practice, and transitioned into school social work. I have spent the last 7+ years in Barrington Schools and I am excited to bring my clinical skills and experience to an office setting. My goal is to help you or your child meet the needs that brought you into therapy with me, and work collaboratively to help you find the happiness you deserve.
Grace Vocalina, LMHC-A
Grace Vocalina, LMHC-A
Drawing from clinical experience in recovery homes, college counseling centers, and community mental health, my counseling approach is relational and trauma-informed. I place strong value on the therapeutic relationship and aim to foster a safe, authentic, and kind space where you feel supported in exploring your experiences. I see therapy as a collaborative journey, and I am honored to walk alongside you as we navigate the many parts of your world. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I hold a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in athletics and am an Associate Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC-A) in Rhode Island