O u r T e a m
Renewing Your Mind to Refresh Your Soul
O u r A p p r o a c h
“Let your gentleness be evident to all.”
-Philippians 4:5
O u r P l e d g e
We are committed Christians. We’ve dedicated our lives—personally and professionally—to serving Jesus Christ. We rely on Biblical principles and pray for our patients—even when we don’t pray with them.
Our Staff’s wide range of expertise enables CCC to give every client a broad range of therapeutic services, individually tailored to an individual’s needs. There’s no such thing as a “cookie cutter” cure.
We’re committed to refreshing the souls of everyone we serve by renewing their minds.
O u r B i o s
Cheryl Allen
M S , M A , L M F T , S T
Therapist, Executive Director
I began working at the Christian Counseling Center as a Therapist in 2013 and became Executive Director two years later. With my background as a Speech Therapist and TV Talk Show Host, communication is the thread that runs throughout my professional life. Connecting with others through genuine curiosity, empathy and respect is what I strive for and enjoy.
I help individuals overcome their depression and/or anxiety by unearthing treasures inside them, walking alongside them on their path to discover their own strengths and purpose. Using Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), I help couples strengthen their bond with better understanding and a more secure connection to each other.
I provide guidance and support to married and divorced parents to effectively co-parent. We’ll work together to build healthy family structures with clearly-defined roles and flexibility to adapt to life’s changing stages.
Though originally seafaring Californians, my husband and I also love the mountains. Here’s a life lesson I learned from skiing. “Keep your knees bent! There are hidden bumps along the way.”
We’ve lived in Connecticut for over twenty years now and have two grown sons. As often as possible (which isn’t nearly often enough), we still love sailing away to Northport, Long Island for an ice cream cone.
Luke Garvey
M B A , M A , L C S W
Therapist, Associate Director
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have been a Therapist with CCC since 2014. I'm also the Associate Director at the Center. My counseling strengths are individual and group therapy using the clinically-proven approaches of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Emphasizing how our thoughts, emotions and behaviors all affect each other, I specialize in anxiety and mood disorders (such as depression) in my counseling.
I strongly believe that empathetic support is a vital part of the therapy experience. I trained at the highly-regarded Silver Hill Hospital and New Prospects Rehab Center. Significant career accomplishments combined with life and family experience bring depth and caring to my work here. I provide a safe and collaborative environment for getting better.
I graduated from Fordham University, earning both a BA in Psychology and MA in Social Work. I later received an MBA from Cornell University. I am a member of the National Association of Social Workers and Social Workers in Private Practice of Fairfield County.
Raised in New York City, I’m a long-time Connecticut resident. I enjoy fitness, watching ice hockey, reading and listening to live music.
Willie Brevard
M S , L P C
Therapist
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who joined the Christian Counseling Center in 2006, following a thirty-year career as an Educator and Guidance Counselor, a role that enhances my skills as a Therapist.
My specialties are Anxiety/Depression, Child/Adolescent issues, ADHD, Anger Management, Grief/Loss, Relationship issues, Parenting, and Faith-Based Counseling. My approach to these issues is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Our initial visit is devoted to gathering background information, the client’s explanation of the problems, identifying what the client hopes to gain from therapy, and confirming the client’s commitment to therapy. Whether I'm working with individuals (children, adolescents or adults), with couples or families, I help everyone to explore their issues to move Body-Mind-Spirit in a positive direction.
I earned my BS in Business Education from North Carolina A&T State University, an MS in Counselor Education from University of Bridgeport, and Sixth Year in Foundational Studies from Southern Connecticut State University. I hold memberships in the American Association of Christian Counselors, Connecticut Counselors Association and Connecticut Mental Health Counselors Association.
I'm a native of Camden, South Carolina. I love to read, travel and spend time with family and friends.
Scott Simon
M A , L M F T
Therapist
I recently completed my Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Alliance Graduate School of Counseling. Before that, I earned a BS in Economics from Wharton at the University of Pennsylvania that led to a thirty-year career on Wall Street. For five years, I served as a Stephen Ministries Leader. I've completed all four levels of training as a Healing Prayer Minister by Christian Healing Ministries in Jacksonville, Florida. I'm a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
The environment of the trading floor was fertile ground for gaining first-hand experience about the effects that relational conflict and stress can have on the dynamics of relationships. Throughout my life, I've had an innate sense of the importance of behavior patterns and their interactions. In and out of the workplace, I've intuitively known how to create a safe space for people to tell me their stories, examining them in the context of both individual and system dynamics. I enjoy working with families and couples, as much as with individuals. My approach integrates Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Structural and Narrative Therapies.
I also hold Certificates from the Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC), Trauma Focused Certification (CBT) and am a certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator.
Born and raised in Rye, NY, my wife Margaret and I have called Connecticut home since 1991. We've celebrated over forty years of marriage, raised four children and now welcome five grandchildren into our lives. I enjoy racquet sports, an active lifestyle, traveling and spending time with family.
Sue Stuart
M B A , M A , L M F T
Therapist
I completed my Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Fairfield University. I also have an MBA from the Tuck School at Dartmouth College and a BA from Cornell University. I’m a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Relationships are my passion. Whether as a Brand Manager, Teacher or Mother of triplets, I’m dedicated to building positive relationships.
I seek to empower and inspire my clients to improve the most important relationships in their lives. By focusing on the changes that they can control within themselves, the lives of my clients can and do change for the better. I work with families, couples and individuals to help them identify and undo patterns that keep them feeling “stuck.”
Originally from the Finger Lakes Region of Upstate New York, I’ve lived with my husband and family in Fairfield County since 1989. Together, we’ve raised triplets (two daughters and a son) and welcomed two sons-in-laws into our growing family. I enjoy family time, travel and staying fit.
Ling Wang
M A , L M F T
Therapist
I completed my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Nyack Alliance Graduate School of Counseling in 2019. I’m also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
After graduating from Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, I earned my PhD degree in Pharmacology and Biochemistry in 2008. Two years later, I completed my Post-Doctoral training in Biochemistry at the University of Washington in Seattle.
With my background as a Scientist and intuitive analytical skills, I enjoy helping people identify their relational patterns of interaction and achieve their goals. I care for my clients and attune to their needs. Through warmth, I work to create a safe environment where people are able to grow.
My approach is through Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I also work with individuals, couples and families, and have a fondness for children.
Before coming to the US for my graduate work, I earned my BA in Life Science from the University of Science and Technology in China. I speak both Mandarin and English fluently. I have a special place in my heart for international students experiencing adjustment issues while alone overseas. I also specialize in helping immigrant families experiencing couple or parenting challenges.
I love to travel, to sing and to spend time with family and friends.
Maria Vincent
M A , M F T
Associate
After my rewarding career as a Middle School Spanish Teacher, I returned to graduate school to begin a new adventure as a Therapist.
I recently completed my Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven. Before that, I earned an Undergraduate degree in Spanish at Southern. I also hold a Masters degree in Education from the University of Bridgeport and a Sixth Year Graduate degree from Sacred Heart University. I’m a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy.
With compassion and empathy for others, I draw on my own life experience and professional expertise. As a Therapist, I look to partner with people struggling with issues within their marriage, as well as with addiction. My goal is connection, to empower my clients to overcome their own challenges.
Family is extremely important to me. Together with my husband, we understand the joys and challenges of a blended family. We enjoy time with our four children and five grandchildren. I also enjoy long walks, reading and spinning.
Jennifer Friend
M A , M F T
Associate
I have a passion for all things related to human transformation and growth.
At Vanderbilt University, I studied the intersection of Psychology and Religion. In 2007, I received my Masters degree in Religious Studies from the Institute of Religious Studies at the Archdiocesan Seminary of New York. In 2015, I obtained my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fairfield University. I also hold a Post-Graduate degree in Addiction Counseling from Albertus Magnus College.
My approach to individuals, couples and families is always focused on having a "resilience lens" that is both trauma-informed and person-centered. While I utilize a Systems-Based approach to Therapy, I find that compassion and curiosity bring out untold God-given, untapped resources. These innate gifts can turn hardships, trauma, and psychological pain into spiritual and emotional growth.
I utilize my training in Applied Positive Psychology and Self-Directed Neuroplasticity alongside my Structural Family Therapy training. My favorite thing about working with people is witnessing how absolutely amazing and unique each of us truly is! With my own eyes, I see how change has a ripple effect beyond ourselves. Growth in our relationships, families and communities is the end result.
Dora Bush
M S W , L C S W , B C P C C
Therapist
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Christian Counselor. I merge Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy with a Faith-based approach. I’m deeply committed to helping anyone entrusted to my care.
My passion and compassion as a Clinician have grown during my thirty-plus years of experience. As a Social Worker in the mental health field, my work has included both inpatient and outpatient hospital care, as well as clinical settings. I treat a broad range of conditions.
I earned my degree from Colombia University School of Social Work. I’m also a Stephens Minister with a Hospice certificate.
As a single mom, I am devoted to and adore my adopted teenaged daughter. Mission trips to Belize, Kenya and Israel have been another blessing in my life. I enjoy family and friends, traveling, reading, tennis, guitar, scenic walks, dark chocolate and holistic remedies.
The key to my care is providing a comfortable environment in which people can share their struggles, be with their feelings, and renew their hopes and dreams. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.
David Rucquoi
M B A , M A
Intern
My training guides me toward an integrative theoretical approach, aligning my treatment plan and my methods with the client’s situation. Interestingly, this approach also informs my own life as a father, son, husband, corporate manager and church leader.
I’m currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy at Alliance Graduate School of Counseling. I have an MA degree in Biblical Studies from Alliance Theological Seminary, an MBA in Marketing from Pace University and a BS in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University.
My wife and I raised our three children here in Connecticut, where we still live. Now that they’re grown, I have a bit more time to enjoy sailing, skiing, carpentry and reading. I also raise guide dogs for the seeing-impaired.
Monica Flanagan
M A
Associate
I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology from University of West Florida. After my internship at Catholic Charities Family Counseling Center in Pensacola, I focused on providing Community Education at a Rape Crisis Center while also managing a mentoring program for a separate child advocacy agency.
I believe God places a longing inside us, one that can only be satisfied by a close relationship with Him. Through that relationship, God gives us wisdom about His plan for our lives.
That’s what happened to me. After redirection to law school, admission to the Connecticut Bar and seventeen years in Connecticut’s Judicial Branch, God led me back to my original path—mental health counseling.
I returned with a renewed commitment to helping others find God’s wisdom and direction. My own challenges deepened this desire and increased my ability to help, especially for people struggling with relationships or loss.
When I’m not spending time with my husband and two small children, I love to run, swim, and draw.
Sharon Sunoo
B A , M B A
Intern
I am a member of the American Counseling Association. Very excited that I’ll soon receive my Master’s Degree in Christian Counseling from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary. I earned my MBA from George Washington University and BA in Economics & International Relations from Smith College.
In clinical work, I’d like to emphasize my commitment to helping others through warm, empathetic relationships. I listen to and engage my clients to help them achieve their goals. I value preparedness to fortify and create security before a challenging situation triggers a decision.
I enjoy helping young adults experiencing significant issues as they navigate next steps in their lives. My extensive work and life experiences are invaluable. Raising our now-adult children with my husband enhances my insight and compassion.
I love being with my family, playing golf and traveling. Catching up with friends over a chai latte is one of my favorite pastimes.
Carla Gatto
B S
Intern
All of my career choices have been about helping others. I truly believe it is my calling. I’m passionate about people and have a love for them and their stories.
A bit of background. I’m a Member of the American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy, pursuing my Masters at Iona University. I earned my BS in Psychology at The King’s College. Over the years, I’ve worked in a wide variety of environments—Social Services, corporate settings, schools and churches.
For five years, I’ve worked on-staff in a Pastoral Care role. Offering Pastoral Counseling at a church has been a God-given opportunity combining Godly wisdom, Biblical truth and counseling. Together, they’ve given me the skills to help individuals, couples, and families through my faith.
I’m excited to help empower my clients at CCC as they walk through life’s trials and tribulations, toward triumph.
As a native of Fairfield County, I enjoy spending time with my family. I love the beach, reading a good book, taking long walks, and going to Italy.
Cari Nizolek
M B A
Office Miracle Worker
O u r B o a r d
P a m e l a L a w r e n c e E n d r e n y
Growing up as the daughter of Dr. Constance Lawrence, founder of Christian Counseling Center, has given me lots of perspective. From the very beginning, I’ve been influenced by the concept—novel at the time—that combining Psychotherapy with Biblical principles has the dramatic power to change lives.
Through the years, I’ve been inspired by CCC’s mission. The consistent ability of its therapists to help individuals, couples and families no matter what their situation or issue, is profound and moving.
As an attorney, I specialize in Corporate Tax Law. I also provide pro bono advice to non-profit organizations.
Raised in Weston, Connecticut, I now live in Westchester County with my husband, Ray. Together we’ve raised two college-aged sons. For fun, I enjoy running, biking and skiing. I dabble in piano and guitar and have recently taken up the ukulele.
S t e p h e n H a l p e r t
After earning my undergraduate degree at Columbia College, I followed-up with an MBA from Columbia Business School and a Masters from Columbia’s School of International Affairs, specializing in Asia.
Thus began my thirty-year career in banking and insurance. I worked at Chemical Bank, Citibank, Capital Markets Assurance Corporation and MBIA Insurance Corporation in various capacities as a Managing Director.
Born and raised in New York City, I’ve travelled extensively and lived in Tokyo for ten years.
My wife Linda and I recently celebrated our 35th anniversary. Together, we’ve raised three children here in Connecticut.
Beyond being a CCC Board Member, I volunteer at SCORE, CERT and teach Japanese. Linda and I are one of three founding families of New England Fellowship, a church begun in New Canaan. I also serve on our church’s leadership team.
R o b L o k o d y
God began pursuing me as a boy with a recurring dream. I'll share it sometime. As a man, this dream buoys me and helps me pursue God. It is one of His intimate—and infinite—gifts to me.
As the son of Iron Curtain refugees, I understand how cold a war can be—separating self from family, friends, country and the worship of God. The psychological burden of this dis-integration hasn't disfigured me. Just the opposite. It confirms my need and desire to identify my identity through Christ. My time, my talent, my treasure, humble though they are, are gifts to be shared.
In my career as a Madison Avenue “Madman,” I rarely shared. I learned the concept of “fake news” through the cliché of “new and improved.” (This endless deception often mimics our own histories, woke or comatose.) Nationally and internationally, I created advertising and branding to keep industry’s big wheels turning—from Bubble Yum Bubble Gum to the British Airways Concorde. I sold just about everything under the sun, but not my soul.
I've lived and worked in some of the world's great cities, yet love nature most. I've set foot on six continents. God willing, I'll see Antarctica. Though an introvert, I'll talk to anyone. As I listen to God's still small voice, I find myself drawn to service. My years volunteering at churches, homeless shelters and teaching Sunday school recall the joy and peace (Romans 15:13 reference) I first felt in my dreams as a boy.
J e f f r e y A n t h o n y P a z
I currently co-head Client Engineering at the Fintech start-up, Beacon Platform Incorporated, based in New York. My specialty is Derivatives Trading and Sales Technology. From 1995 to 2015, I led Global Trading/Sales Technology groups at Goldman Sachs. I received my ME degree in Computer Engineering and BE degree in Electrical Engineering from Manhattan College.
My family lives in Westport. In nearby Darien, I serve as an Elder at Christ Community Church. I’m also on the Board of Directors for Hope for Orphans of Ethiopia.
The Epistle of James deeply inspires me. He writes, “The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.”
Our broken community needs resources for mental wellness. I believe that every life can benefit from God’s wisdom. CCC uniquely blends therapy services with the gentleness and truth of Christ. It’s my honor and privilege to work with the CCC team to help our vital services not just to endure, but to thrive.
S c o t t T i l t o n
I serve as the Next Generation Pastor of Trinity Church in Greenwich, Connecticut. I focus on faith formation for children, for youth as well as for families.
My ministry background is definitely diverse. My duties have included inner-city ministry, short term ministry, foreign missions, children’s and youth programs, and pastoral leadership. I’ve served in both professional and lay ministry capacities. Back in 2006, I left corporate sales to pursue a career in full-time ministry. I never looked back.
I deeply believe that there is hope in this increasingly dark world. I am passionate about seeing individuals and families made whole through Jesus.
I’ve been married to my lovely wife, Holly, for nearly 25 years. We reside in Norwalk and have three “older” children. My many interests include music, bonsai, rock climbing, and trying to fix anything broken.
O u r A d v i s o r s
C h e r y l A l l e n
Read Cheryl's bio above.
L u k e G a r v e y
Read Luke's bio above.
K a r e n H a l p e r t
I decided to become a Consultant for small and medium-sized non-profits following a successful career in International Marketing. I’m certified in non-profit development and fundraising.
In addition to advising CCC, I work with environmental conservancy, social services and mental healthcare non-profits. I serve on several boards in various capacities, including board leadership, strategic planning, governance, treasury, development and fundraising.
My unrelenting passion is to help organizations improve operations, finances and strategies, so that they can better achieve their magnificent missions. My favorite place to think is on a mountain hike.
K e i t h W e l c h
My rebellious youth ultimately led me to the world’s greatest rebel: Jesus of Nazareth. As Senior Pastor of Church of the Nazarene in Norwalk, Connecticut, I devote myself to serving the body of Christ whenever I am called. Advising the CCC Board of Directors is a humble calling and a great privilege.
C a r o l y n W o o d b e r r y
In my recent life, I’ve become very involved with a variety of non-profits: Horizons at New Canaan Country School, St. Luke’s School, The Mather Homestead Foundation, and now Christian Counseling Center. Over the years, I’ve also served at Noroton Presbyterian Church on several ministry and leadership teams.
I attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard Business School. My experience includes working in Treasury as VP for Primedia, a KKR portfolio company, where I raised capital for acquisitions. Before that, I worked at McKinsey & Company as a consultant, managing a multitude of projects from health care to retail. At JP Morgan, I worked in Mergers and Acquisitions and Capital Markets.
I’ve lived in Darien for over 20 years with my husband, Sturgis, and our three children. For fun, I love to sing. I co-direct Acabella, a local a cappella women’s singing group.
J e n n i f e r Z e c h
I received my undergraduate degree from Denison University. In New York City, I worked as a VP in Citibank’s Private Bank, providing financial services to high net worth individuals.
Just like my husband, Jim, I was raised right in here Connecticut. We raised all four of our children in New Canaan. Recently, our nest emptied and we moved to Rowayton.
In addition to advising CCC, I volunteer with the New Canaan Volunteer Ambulance Corp and Post 53 in Darien as an EMT. I’ve also served in leadership roles at Community Bible Study programs. I currently serve in Christian Education at Grace Community Church, where I’ve taught for over sixteen years.
As I patiently await grandchildren, I seek new ways to serve the Lord by serving others. I’m open to His calling.
O u r T h a n k s
“Heartfelt thanks to our Board members, Jeff and Rob, for creating this wonderful website for all of you. Their generosity of time and talent, poured into this project, embodies our dedication to helping CCC renew minds and refresh souls. We are deeply grateful.” - Cheryl
P o r t r a i t P h o t o g r a p h y b y N i n a N e l s o n
ARTIST STATEMENT "My goal is to capture the ineffable spirit of a person. Does it always happen? Well, almost always, but expecting it puts too much pressure on me and my subject. And the process. So I prepare to the best of my ability and let the experience play out! I guess in that way, it’s a lot like life." ninanelsonphotography.com
N a t u r e P h o t o g r a p h y a n d G r o u p P h o t o b y R e B e L
ARTIST STATEMENT “I enjoy discovery more than manipulation. Other Art forms command constructs and conceits, but the spontaneity of Photography lightens and liberates. Light changes by the nanosecond, constantly renewing itself. Not to mention myself. And hopefully my audience.” nerudaember@yahoo.com
