Clinicians

Intake Specialist & Therapist

Samantha Balducci, MA, LAC, NCC

Samantha Balducci is a Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey and is also a Nationally Certified Counselor. Samantha received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The College of New Jersey in 2019, and graduated from Montclair State University with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a concentration in Addictions Counseling in 2021. She has been a part of LifeBack’s multidisciplinary team since 2017, beginning as an undergraduate intern through becoming a full-time therapist and intake specialist. Samantha works with individuals across the lifespan, but particularly enjoys working with adolescents, as well as individuals of all ages on the autism spectrum and those with intellectual & developmental disabilities (I/DDs). Samantha takes a solution-focused, CBT approach, and places a large emphasis on creating a judgement-free, safe space for her clients and ensuring rapport is built in the therapeutic relationship.

Therapist

Adam Blake, LCSW, LCADC

Adam Blake is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Jersey. Adam is passionate about helping individuals become the best versions of themselves through the understanding of trauma, anxiety disorders and other mental illnesses in order to find meaningful and sustainable ways to make people’s lives better! Adam works with people across the lifespan and brings solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy lenses to best help people move forward and to achieve their dreams.

Therapist

Joan Galkin, LCSW

Joan Galkin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey. Joan graduated with a Master’s Degree in social work from Rutgers University and a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Penn State University.

As an experienced LCSW therapist with over 20 years in the mental health field, Joan has experience in helping both adults and children overcome challenges related to trauma, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder and bereavement. Joan’s approach to therapy is highly personalized, incorporating solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and play therapy to tailor her therapy to the specific needs of each client. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child, or your relationship, Joan can help you achieve your goals and find a path towards healing and growth. With her compassionate and effective approach, Joan is dedicated to helping her clients thrive and achieve their full potential.

Therapist

Chelsea Jenkins MA, LAC, NCC

Chelsea Jenkins is a Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey and also a Nationally Certified Counselor. Chelsea graduated in 2017 with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rider University.

Chelsea began her experience at a children’s and adolescence residential home focusing on family attachment and trauma. Following her experience with residential treatment, Chelsea worked in a public school outpatient clinic working with a wide range of populations ranging from children to adults. During that time, Chelsea provided individual and family therapy for those struggling with mental health concerns related to traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.

Chelsea utilizes an integrated approach of trauma-informed care to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients, person-centered therapy to develop a healthy and secure rapport with clients, and cognitive behavioral therapy to assist clients with adjusting unhealthy thinking patterns.

Therapist

Jennifer Joireman, MA, EdS, LPC, LCADC

Jennifer Joireman is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of New Jersey. She has a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Post Graduate training in Marriage and Family Therapy. Jennifer has spent the past 18 years working in the Substance Abuse Field with a focus on family dynamics. Further special interest populations include adolescent girls and children with impulse control issues. Jennifer recognizes the value of the therapeutic relationship, and takes a client-centered approach to counsel, empowering clients to regain control of their thoughts and emotions with awareness and mindfulness strategies.

Therapist

Cindy Kozicki, MSW, LCSW

Cindy Kozicki received her Master’s Degree in clinical social work from Rutgers University and attended a postgraduate psychoanalytic institute in New York City. The majority of her professional career has been spent providing direct behavioral health services for children and adults, and she has also worked in school and hospital settings. Cindy provided suicide prevention training for a number of school districts and presented at multiple health conferences on the benefits of support groups for parents of chronically-ill children. She has experience in grief counseling and is a member of the Traumatic Loss Coalition. Cindy is proud to be a part of the LifeBack team, which she feels provides professional, comprehensive care in a compassionate, judgment-free environment.

Therapist

Dawn McIlwaine, LCSW, LCADC

Dawn McIlwaine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of New Jersey. Dawn earned a Master’s Degree from Rutgers University School of Social Work and comes to LifeBack with over 20 years of experience working in behavioral health outpatient settings. Dawn’s career has spanned the continuum of treatment supporting patients in Partial Hospital, Traditional Outpatient, and Dual Diagnosis programs.  In addition to her work as a therapist, Dawn has experience as a Clinical Manager overseeing programming and supervising staff. Dawn has helped those who suffer from mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar, as well as those struggling with substance use disorders.  Dawn joins the LifeBack team with an extensive set of skills incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.  Dawn utilizes advanced therapeutic interventions and compassion in a supportive way to help clients on their journey of healing and growth.

Therapist

Michael Osrowitz, MS, LPC, LCADC, NCC

Michael Osrowitz (Mike) is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the New Jersey and is a Nationally Certified Counselor. Mike has a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and has worked with patients with mental illness, substance abuse, and with family members of substance abusers. He is also a Remo Health Rhythms trained drum circle facilitator in their basic, adolescent, and advanced protocols (for health and wellness). Mike uses an integrative approach of person-centered therapy to develop a strong rapport with patients, cognitive behavioral therapy to help identify unhelpful thought patterns, and mindfulness techniques for centering and relaxation.

Therapeutic thought: “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” Viktor Frankl

Therapist

Cara Piazza, MSW, LSW

Cara Piazza is a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey and is currently working toward her License in Clinical Social Work. Cara graduated Suma Cum Laude from Rutgers University with her Master’s Degree in Social Work and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Arizona. During her time in graduate and undergraduate studies, Cara gained experience in mental and behavioral health services through clinical internship placements throughout the entire continuum of care. Cara draws on the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy framework as well as incorporates the Solutions Focused model and Mindfulness techniques and principles. Her integrative approach fosters a strong therapeutic relationship and is tailored to each individual’s strengths and needs. She works with clients of all ages, and she especially enjoys working with teens and adults.

Therapist

Brandi Shaw, MA, LCADC

Since 2008 Brandi has been working in the counseling field. Brandi is currently a Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor in New Jersey.  Brandi received her Master’s Degree in Psychology and is currently working towards her Master’s of Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University.  Brandi has extensive experience facilitating groups and providing substance use counseling. Special populations include adults with opiate and alcohol use disorders. Brandi takes an integrated approach which includes person centered, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and CBT.  She is dedicated to providing an atmosphere of trust and acceptance.

Therapist

Greg Smola, LSW

Greg is a Pennsylvania Licensed Social Worker. He graduated with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of New Hampshire. A dedicated recovery advocate, he has served as an inpatient counselor, residential case manager, and emergency room crisis clinician. Clients have benefited from Greg’s strength-based and motivating approach across a full continuum of care.

As an outpatient therapist, Greg helps patients gain more self-awareness and self-acceptance through a humanistic and cognitive behavioral framework. Greg especially enjoys working with young adults who are seeking stability, motivation, and purpose. Greg’s relaxed, attentive, non-judgmental, and often humorous rapport is something both his patients and colleagues appreciate. He is “thrilled to be part of the LifeBack team”!

Therapist

Emily Jalajas, LCSW

Emily Jalajas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Emily received her Master of Social Work Degree from Rutgers University in 2014 and received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey in 2012. She has worked with clients from diverse racial, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds in therapeutic relationships addressing issues including anxiety, depression, managing anger, and emotional deregulation. She is skilled in understanding the many psychological, social, and environmental challenges facing underserved populations. Emily has experience in working with clients from all stages of life but specifically enjoys working with young adults and teenagers. She focuses on whole person wellness with a specialty in Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. In her free time, Emily enjoys doing CrossFit and traveling.

Therapist

Julie Tokar, LCSW

Julie Tokar is a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey. Julie has a Master’s Degree in clinical social work from the University of Pennsylvania. She gained experience in behavioral research at the University of Delaware while earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology.

Julie draws on a cognitive behavioral therapy framework while incorporating psychoeducation, dialectical behavioral therapy skills, mindfulness, and a strengths-based approach. She understands that the most important factor is the quality of the therapeutic relationship, and so takes the time to develop strong relationships with her clients.  Julie is happy to provide care in the client-centered and nonjudgmental environment that LifeBack provides.

Therapist

Brittany Blair

Brittany Blair is a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey. Following Brittany’s completion of her undergraduate degree at The College of New Jersey, she decided to pursue her passion by completing her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. Brittany has been a part of LifeBack’s team since 2019 and has continued to expand her knowledge and experience in various departments serving as a dependable resource for clients. Brittany enjoys working with clients of all ages, especially individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, anger, and addiction disorders. Brittany recognizes how overwhelming such challenges can feel and strives to create a safe environment for all of her clients to explore emotions, gain support, and feel empowered to make positive changes and achieve personal growth. Brittany empowers clients to take charge of their own life, while serving as additional support and guidance to ensure positive changes. Brittany pulls from an integrated approach, focusing on compassion, empathy, and respect for every client’s individual experience and needs. Brittany aims to direct clients in working together to identify strengths, barriers, resilience, and skills needed to live a fulfilling life.

Therapist

Morgan Urban, MSW, LSW

Morgan is a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Morgan graduated from Shippensburg University Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a Minor in Gerontology. Morgan received her master’s degree in social work from Delaware State University, where she also Graduated Summa Cum Laude.

Morgan has experience working with children, adolescents, and their parents in a variety of settings. Morgan especially enjoys working with adolescents and young children struggling with mental health issues.  Morgan strives to make a unique connection with each Patient and create an atmosphere that is comfortable, safe, and fun.  Morgan gained additional experience in the mental health field as a caseworker and a behavioral health technician.  Morgan sites this experience as pivotal, gaining a deeper understanding of behavior and mental health supporting Patients in a in a nontraditional therapeutic setting. 

Morgan draws on the cognitive behavioral therapy framework while incorporating mindfulness techniques.  Morgan tailors her approach to each Patient often utilizing  strengths-based and solution focused ideals. Morgan firmly believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to progress.  In her free time Morgan enjoys “traveling, working out, and learning more about her profession”.  

Therapist

Tom Kinloch, MA, LCADC, MSW Candidate

Tom is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) in New Jersey with a master’s degree in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Tom is actively pursuing a second master’s degree in social work from Rutgers University.  Tom comes to LifeBack with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults in various addictions and behavioral health treatment settings.  Tom has experience providing both individual and group counseling and has worked in multiple treatment settings including general outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial care.  Tom utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques, primarily CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and solution-focused therapy as avenues for supporting Patients in setting and achieving their therapeutic goals.  Tom’s colleagues describe him as “kind, approachable and one of the nicest guys you will ever meet”, LifeBack is happy he is part of the team!

MSW, Intern

Hannah White

Hannah is a master’s level graduate intern pursuing licensure from Rider University’s Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. She received her Bachelor’s Degrees in both Psychology and Human Development from Binghamton University in upstate New York, where she also studied Health & Wellness. Hannah was previously a group fitness instructor, certified in Yoga, Barre, and Meditation coaching. Hannah is passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing life transitions and may be struggling with adjusting.  Hanna also enjoys working with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, and perfectionism.  She enjoys working from an integrated, person-centered, humanistic approach with an emphasis on empowerment and mindfulness. Hannah deeply values acceptance and works hard to create an environment that is comfortable and non-judgmental. 

LCSW

Jenna Tiberi

Jenna is a LCSW and graduated from Rutgers University in 2020 with a master’s degree in social work.  Jenna also completed the Aging and Health specialization program during her studies. 

Jenna enjoys working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss.  Jenna also enjoys working with people who are struggling with difficult life transitions.  Jenna has also had the pleasure of  working with couples and co-parents who need clarity and additional support. 

Jenna knows that therapy is not a one size fits all; that is why she uses a variety of techniques such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness techniques, strengths based approach, and solution-focused therapy.  She believes that building a strong therapeutic alliance will provide limitless opportunities for what can be unlocked and accomplished together in therapy. Deciding to come to therapy can be a difficult decision, Jenna shared that she “strives to provide a compassionate, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment” for everyone she sees.