%20copy.png)
Amber Stiles-Bodnar, MSEd, LPCC-S, LCDC III
​
I have a passion working with people to help them become who they truly are instead of who they had to be. I view therapy as a partnership, a collaboration where you are able to feel comfortable but challenged, a space for individuals, seeking a higher level of self-exploration, to do hard but rewarding and beneficial work. You deserve to heal.
I am a Licensed Supervising Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC III) in the state of Ohio. I am a Certified Master EMDR Therapist, Trainer and Approved Consultant through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). I am a member of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and volunteer for the EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program (HAP).
I specialize in working with trauma, abuse, codependency, and the intersection between trauma, addiction and high risk lifestyles. I am drawn to working with ACOAs, professionals in high-risk occupations such as military, law enforcement, first responders, medical professionals and their families, LGBTQIA+ identified individuals, ​and those with developmental and generational based trauma. My distinctive background includes 12 years of law enforcement experience allowing me a unique insight when helping those in specialized occupations such as police, fire, EMS and the armed forces.
In co-founding Blue Star Family Counseling Services, I wanted to create a space where specialized trauma based therapies would be provided to individuals and families. I am also devoted to helping people help people. I provide trainings that focus on the effects of trauma, addiction, mindfulness, generalization trauma, and crisis intervention, including EMDR Therapy on the local, state and national level. I offer clinical supervision to counselors and mentorship to those in the helping professions providing guidance and instruction to improve their clinical mastery and expertise in treating trauma survivors.
I welcome the opportunity to walk with you in your journey.
​
Renée Pitts, MSEd, LPCC-S, CDCA
​
I know that making a decision to see a therapist is not an easy one. Finding a therapist that you feel confident and comfortable with is paramount. So let me tell you a little about me and I hope to have the opportunity to meet and to learn about you. I work with all populations age 12 and up who have a wide range of concerns and traumatic experiences that they wish to work on in therapy. I have a particular passion for working with military, law enforcement, first responders and their families, and I also really enjoy working with teens. I think my office reflects my style and personality with a warm and cozy feel, a splash of imagination, and a touch of magic. I have earned a Master of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Youngstown State University. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a certified Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and an Approved Consultant through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). I also have a specialized focus of study in exercise and the nutritional effects on mental health and overall wellness, including continued studies in Tibetan medicine and herbology. I have worked in mental health treatment providing therapy as a residential and outpatient counselor.
My distinctive background includes the study of meditation techniques for over 25 years under several teachers in the United States. I have also traveled to India, Nepal, and Tibet to study ancient traditions of meditation. With a strong understanding of western science, combined with my practice in mind/body experiences, meditative techniques, and the study of nutrition and integrative mental health, I am able to blend these as modalities into my counseling practice. I am also able to share a practical understanding of applying mind, body and spirit to bring about a greater level of wellness and health into the lives of my clients. I offer instruction at a monthly meditation group held at Blue Star Family Counseling Services, Inc. and I assist in EMDR trainings. I have also taught at Youngstown State University and other sites around the local area on meditation and mindfulness. The focus of my clinical work utilizes EMDR Therapy, mindfulness and meditation, nutrition and integrative mental health and I specialize in trauma, substance abuse and addiction, spirituality and religious values, and wellness with adults and adolescents. I hope to see you soon!
Dru Perren, MSEd, LPCC-S, BCBA, COBA
I’m a Licensed Supervising Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Certified Ohio Behavior Analyst, Certified EMDR Therapist and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. I really enjoy working with kids and individuals that have been diagnosed with Autism. In my work, I blend traditional counseling techniques, EMDR, and behavior analytic skills to address each of my client’s unique needs. Together, we can work through past stressful experiences so you feel more confident in becoming who you want to be! I also like working with adults. Watching a client become more comfortable in their skin, and heal from past difficult experiences inspires me to continue to work in this field. If you aren’t feeling great about yourself, and you believe you’re ready for a change, give me a call!​
​
Ali Manno, MS, LPCC
​
I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kent State University in 2016 and received by Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in 2021. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults, with special interest in areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues. As a therapist, I value forming a therapeutic relationship with my clients and strive to hold a safe space for healing. I approach counseling through a trauma-focused lens, utilizing mindfulness-based techniques along with EMDR Therapy to promote healing and assist my clients in the improvement of their overall wellbeing.
​
Betsy Bryan, Ph.D, LPCC
​​
I believe the therapy process is one of self-exploration and growth and learning new tools to assist us on our path. Since we cannot heal what we cannot see, understanding our painful experiences and hurt with compassion can help us find our inner strengths and wisdom. My approach in therapy is to create a nonjudgmental and compassionate environment allowing you the open space to explore your inner world. I believe in a holistic approach and the importance of honoring your unique combination of emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual experiences. I focus mainly on a mindful-based approach and EMDR and I am able to include other treatment approaches in therapy. We will work together to find a treatment approach best fitting for you.
​
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with 20 years of counseling experience. I earned my Ph.D. in Counselor Education from Ohio University in 1999 and I have completed training in EMDR. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults and have special interest in grief, trauma, life transitions, and health issues including the mind-body connection.
​
In my free time, my favorite thing is being in nature and taking my dog for a walk. I enjoy taking a yoga class, learning new things, meditation, and spending time with my family and friends.
​
Zoe Weiser, MSEd, LPCC, CDCA
​​
I earned my Bachelor of Science in Applied Science in Criminal Justice and my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2017. I then received my Master of Science in Education for Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Addictions in 2019, all from Youngstown State University. I am a certified Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant, a National Certified Counselor and am an EMDR Trained Therapist working towards EMDR certification. I enjoy working with adults who have struggled with a past in substance use as well as those who have a history of anxiety, depression and trauma. I value working collaboratively with clients while creating a safe and non-judgmental place for healing. Together, we will find the best fit and approach to help you gain insight, build resilience, develop skills, and create the change needed to navigate life’s many challenges.
​
Elizabeth Martina, MA, LPC
​​
​
Hi! I'm Elizabeth, I would love to join you on your journey to wellness. I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walsh University in 2022. I continue to provide therapy under the clinical supervision of Dru Perren, MSEd, LPCC-S, BCBA, COBA while I work towards my independent licensure. I enjoy working with many diverse populations of people, exploring the origins of various issues and assist them to work through those issues, providing true change as well as developing adaptive resources that will help them in their daily lives. I have a background in Chemical, Behavioral and Process addictions and recognize the interplay between these types of issues and trauma. I approach things through a trauma-focused lens and utilize mindfulness based approaches, EMDR Therapy and various therapeutic techniques to tailor therapy to each individual. I believe in making therapy an individualized experience and we can work together to make a plan that works for you. I am passionate about working with people to live their best lives and would be honored if you allowed me to assist you in this process.
​
Katie Hamilton B.A., CT
​​
Hello! I received my Bachelor of Arts with an emphasis in Psychology from Kent State University in 2019 and am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling through Walsh University. I am an intern and under the clinical supervision of Amber Stiles-Bodnar, MSEd, LPCC-S, LCDC III. I am interested in providing therapy to all ages and backgrounds but have a passion for working with veterans and older individuals. I come from a military family and have vast experience with elder care and support. My clinical areas of developing specialty include trauma, depression, life changes, and anxiety. I enjoy creating a nonjudgmental environment in which my clients feel a sense of safety when exploring their past trauma and current needs. I also believe in the importance of fostering a relationship with my clients to encourage growth during the counseling process. I am partially training in EMDR Therapy and will complete the training series in June of 2024. I utilize several therapeutic techniques including mindfulness and Polyvagal interventions, and approach therapy through a trauma-focused lens.
​
Keihmonni Scott B.S., CT
​​
​
Hello! My name is Keihmonni and I am an intern under the clinical supervision of Amber Stiles-Bodnar, MS.Ed, LPCC-S, LCDC III. I graduated from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. I am currently perusing my Master of Science in Education for Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am passionate about working with kids and young adults, with special interest in areas of anxiety, depression and trauma. However, I am capable of working with all age groups and a variety of mental health issues. I am partially training in EMDR Therapy and will complete the training series in November of 2024. As a therapist I value building a strong rapport with my clients. Allowing them to have a safe environment to speak freely without judgement.
​