About Us
Welcome
THANK YOU FOR VISITING!
We are a private counseling office located in the heart of Robinson Township that is committed to providing quality and consistent support to both our clients and our counselors. Our team of experienced therapists offers counseling and life coaching services for teens, adults, and couples, and we specialize in working with a variety of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, couples issues, and school-based support.
Our Story
The goal of our programs is to assist you in finding your strengths and abilities to overcome the things that are causing mental health issues and negativity in your life. Our intention is to facilitate courage against adversity and the support of physical and emotional healing through therapeutic processes that help you realize your strength and potential.
Our foundation is based on two important concepts. The first, collaborative relationships between the patient and the mental health provider produce the best clinical outcomes; and the second, the wide panorama of human suffering does not yield easily to simple solutions.
We work closely with allied professionals whether that be a psychiatrist, a PCP, legal representation, or a school district to ensure you receive the most consistent care possible.
Our Team
JESSICA SCHAD, LPC
FOUNDER & THERAPIST
Jessica is a Licensed Professional Counselor that has experience working with individual psychotherapy and supporting clients who are navigating trauma, anxiety, intense emotions, domestic violence, unhealthy/abusive relationships, perfectionism, neuro-divergence and self-criticism. She offers services both in the office and remotely.
Jessica began her career as a counselor after graduating from Walsh University in 2010 in the community agency field, where she gained a thorough understanding of agency focus and treatment modalities. By 2011, she had been accepted into Waynesburg University's graduate program, where she obtained her Master’s degree and sequentially pursued her license to practice in both Pennsylvania and West Virginia. She completed her residency under the supervision of a psychiatrist and gained substantial knowledge and understanding of psychopharmacology and neurobiologic function. Beyond just working within the mental health field, she is also an avid entrepreneur and has built two private practices in the Pittsburgh area. She is also pursuing her Equine Assisted Therapy Certification from Denver University in the fall of 2024 to better serve her client base and offer a unique treatment option that merges her dual passions.
MADYSON SCHELLER, LPC
Director
Madyson is a Licensed Professional Counselor that has experience with a multitude of individuals and families from diverse backgrounds and experiences. With over 5 years of experience, she has provided psychotherapy to clients who are working through anxiety, trauma, parental alienation, depression, disability, custody, drug and alcohol dependance, and relationships. Madyson takes a person centered, relational, strength based, and collaborative approach to counseling and offers mental health services in the office, remote, and school-based setting.
Madyson obtained her undergraduate degree in Communication and Information Sciences from The University of Alabama in 2016. In 2018 she graduated from Duquesne University with her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and began her career as a Professional Counselor at Gateway Rehabilitation Center and moved into the private practice setting where she gained several years of experience. In addition to her career as a professional counselor, she has also thrived in leadership roles and participated in the development and operations of the Student Program that JMS has to offer.
KIM MCCARTY, LPC
THERAPIST
Kim is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of experience working with diverse populations and diagnoses. She approaches counseling by ensuring those who come to her for counseling leave with a greater sense of balance, stress reduction, and life skills to allow them to live a more fulfilling life. Kim also has a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community. She offers services both in person and remotely.
Kim obtained her undergraduate degree in psychology from Robert Morris University in 2013. In 2017 she graduated from Waynesburg University with her Master’s degree in Counseling and went on to complete her residency while working at a drug and alcohol facility as well as at a private counseling office. With a solid foundation in counseling, she has honed her skills in many counseling modalities but specializes in CBT, Person-centered, Trauma-Informed, and Sex Therapy. Kim’s experience spans various settings, from agency work to a private practice setting. This diverse background has equipped her with a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and the resilience of the human spirit.
Charlene Benefiel, LPC
THERAPIST
Charlene is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in trauma and relationships, including couples therapy and attachment. She has experience working with a wide variety of backgrounds, diagnoses, and ages. Charlene takes a Person Centered approach and concentrates
on strength based, positive psychotherapy. She offers mental health services in person and virtually.
Charlene obtained her undergraduate degree in Social Science with a minor in Psychology from Waynesburg University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. She also attended Waynesburg University for her graduate studies and graduated with a M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with honors. After graduating, she began her career in a community mental health
setting, where she thrived, before going into private practice at JMS.
Susane Symons, LCSW
THERAPIST
Susane (Sue) is a licensed clinical social worker with over 8 years of experience working with a variety of complex diagnoses including trauma, anxiety, adjustment, grief/loss and depression. Over her years of experience, she has acquired a diverse background in treatment modalities and focuses on remote treatment for her client base.
Sue obtained her bachelor degree in Psychology from Edinboro University and later went on to obtain her masters degree in social work at the University of Pittsburgh in 2016. She obtained her License of Social Work (LSW) upon graduation and continued to expand her expertise and clinical skills by completing a rigorous residency that after completion, elevated her status to a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2023. Sue has experience working in various settings such as a homeless resource center, acute care setting, and community care. Sue has a passion for working with a diverse population and incorporating a trauma-informed care and strengths-based approach.
KELLY TRENT, LPC
THERAPIST
Life has many challenges which can sometimes feel overwhelming. My passion is helping others through these moments. I support my clients to feel better and show up in their lives as the people they want to be. My clients learn to build confidence, improve their relationships with themselves and others, and address negative patterns that are holding them back. I see my role as equal parts collaborator, support, and guide for the journey.
I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, stress management, depression, grief & loss, and family & relationship issues. My experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of modalities which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, Humanistic, Strengths Based, Person Centered, and Multicultural approaches. Treatment is always individualized and structured to my client’s needs.
