Rochester Counseling Group
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Johanna Brauen Grube, LMHC (She/Her)
Welcome.  Whatever you're struggling with, I'm not here to save or cure you. What I can offer is support, companionship, guidance, and practical tips as you engage the simple and difficult process of dressing wounds, remembering how to draw in nourishment, and reorienting toward your own ‘true north.’ The long-term goal of this work is not to help you become more 'well-adjusted,' but more fully yourself in a world that often makes that difficult. It may be hard to hear, but that deep-in-your-bones longing really matters. You may have forgotten it, ridiculed it, buried it for any number of very sensible reasons; but I assure you it is waiting patiently for your return. That longing, that certain something that you can't seem to find anywhere? That is yours to grow into. And I would propose that that becoming, that filling in of the larger You, is essential not only to your own sanity, but to the health of all Life.  In that spirit I may challenge you to look at the ways that you are evading the responsibility of becoming. But believe me, I evade too. I will regard you with tenderness and understanding even as I ask you to do the terrifying – trust yourself a little more. Fill your form.
I hold a master's degree in mindfulness-based transpersonal clinical mental health counseling from Naropa University, and am licensed to practice professional counseling in New York and Colorado.
“What if the way you understand and respond to the problem is part of the problem?” - Bayo Akomolafe
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Johanna is currently accepting new clients 
Rate is $115

Accepts Aetna, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, Oxford, Oscar, United

Schedule with Johanna
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Lisa Cole, LMHC (She/Her)
I operate under the assumption that every human wakes up each day and does the best job they know how to do. By creating an environment of safety and unconditional positive regard, my hope is for you to stop just surviving the day-to-day and start living. I believe firmly in the healing experience of coming to therapy and feeling seen, heard, and accepted for exactly who you are. Together we will journey towards authenticity, self-identified goals, and deconstructing painful narratives and patterns, all while firmly maintaining self-compassion.  I graduated from St. John Fisher with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked with a vast range of individuals throughout my career, including but not limited to college students, survivors of sexual harassment and abuse, and marginalized identities. I have experience working with adjusting to life transitions including parenting, depression, anxiety, loss and grief, guilt and shame, addiction, complex trauma, interpersonal violence, suicidal ideation, and personality disorders. I have formal training in Polyvagal Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. And while I am confident in utilizing these evidence-based interventions in my clinical work, I also firmly believe in the healing power of two individuals holding space together and creating safety, which will be the foundation of every session. Together we can explore who you truly are rather than who the world tells you you should be and push back on the internalized systems that keep us trapped in spirals of shame and pain. It would be an honor to share this journey with you. 
Lisa is currently accepting new clients 
Rate is $115  
Accepts Aetna, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, United

Schedule with Lisa
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​Karen Dickinson, LMHC, CASAC (She/Her)
Life can sneak up on us without warning and emotional stressors impact all individuals without discrimination. People often turn to ineffective coping strategies as a means of escaping emotional pain. I believe the most successful path to healing is one that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. I understand that addiction, depression, anxiety, and stress can affect every aspect of your life. It is my hope that, together, we can develop healthier skills to overcome whatever barriers you may be experiencing to physical, mental, and emotional wellness.
I use an eclectic treatment approach consisting of evidence-based practices, tailored to your individual needs in order to achieve the quality of life you desire. I have formal training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT). I graduated from St. John Fisher with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC). I have worked in a number of outpatient settings and have specialized in treating adults with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders for over 14 years. If you feel that you are ready to make positive changes in your life, I encourage you to take that first step on your journey to healing. Let our work together help transform you into the best version of yourself.  I look forward to seeing you soon!
Karen is currently accepting new clients
Rate is $115​
Accepts Aetna, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, Oxford, Oscar, United 

Schedule with Karen
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​​Tobi Keefe, LCSW, MS (She/Her)
What gets in the way of having inner fulfillment and the life that you want?
People often start therapy because they are not getting their needs met, and they do not have the life they want. Old patterns keep coming up and getting in their way. You can try to deal with problems by ignoring them, denying them, or pushing away the discomfort. This may work short term, but rarely works well forever. For successful therapy, I find we need to work as equal partners. After all, you are the expert on you.
It’s challenging to share with a new person. I offer a safe, non-judgmental place to explore your habitual behaviors, self-sabotaging patterns, and the inner critic to create new narratives. My areas of practice are relationship difficulties; loss and grief; depression; anxiety; commitment and intimacy issues;
shame; boundaries; coping with life changes; and the challenges of chronic illness. I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for depression, anxiety, insomnia (certified) and trauma (Cognitive Processing Therapy, certified) as well as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Trauma processing informs my practice.
I obtained my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University at Buffalo and am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). My social work career has included working on the Veterans’ Crisis Line, treating returning Veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as their family members, and working within a primary care setting as an embedded behavioral health social worker.​
Tobi is currently accepting new clients
Rate is $115
Accepts Aetna, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, United

Schedule with Tobi
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​​Lindsey Mercurio, LMHC (She/Her)
Welcome! Each individual's journey is unique. As a therapist, I assist my clients in growing into the best version of themselves. I am inspired by every individual's ability to be self aware, vulnerable and resilient.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy and mindfulness-based interventions.

I graduated from the University of Rochester with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have experience working in non-profit mental health clinic settings serving young adults. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress management, relationship difficulties, adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal skill development, and self-esteem building.
We will work to build a strong therapeutic relationship, and together determine the goals you wish to accomplish throughout your therapeutic journey. Each time we meet, we work collaboratively to process any past or current stressors that may be impacting your ability to be your best self. As your therapist, I will work at your desired pace but I will also guide and challenge you as needed. I value a strong therapeutic relationship and come to every session with warmth, compassion and high energy (and there's always time for a good laugh as well)!

Lindsey is currently accepting new clients
Rate is $125/115 (teens/adults)
Accepts Aetna, Anthem BCBS, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, Oxford, Oscar, Quest Behavioral Health, United

Schedule Lindsey
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Raffinee Acoff-Johnson, LMHC, CASAC (She/Her)
Making the decision to seek therapy can be a very overwhelming, yet life changing decision that challenges you to grow. In being mindful of how delicate the process is when starting therapy, I acknowledge the courage that it took to take action and seek help from a professional. My goal is to walk with you on this journey and assist with making the life changes that you see fit, since you are indeed the expert of your own life. I will meet you where you are at and let you lead the focus of each session.
​I was raised in Rochester, NY and graduated from St. John Fisher with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have interned and worked in outpatient settings for diverse substance use and mental health clinics. As a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor, I am aware of the many challenges faced when making the decision to seek help and work through, as well as manage, addiction. In addition to this focus, I have also worked with the LGBTQ+ community, adolescents, and the older adult population. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, identity issues/concerns, life transitions, and relationships.
I believe that one of the most important aspects of therapy is having rapport with your therapist to ensure a sense of safety and trust. It is with the presence of both that you will feel comfortable enough to challenge yourself in ways that you may have never imagined. In doing so, you allow yourself the space and freedom to share your most vulnerable thoughts, feelings, and experiences in order to work on healing what may be at the core of what brings you to therapy. To assist in this process, I use a number of therapeutic modalities such as Person- Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy. It is my hope that in working together, you will be able to live a life where you are undeniably the best version of yourself.
Raffinee is currently accepting new clients
Rate is $115
Accepts Aetna, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, Oxford, Oscar, United

Schedule with Raffinee
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​​Kerrie Gianvecchio, LCSW (She/her)
Throughout my 20+ year career, I have worked across diverse clinical settings, developing a well-rounded approach. My professional journey has equipped me with extensive experience in trauma recovery and resilience, substance misuse and addiction treatment, women's mental health issues including anxiety and depression, and coping with life transitions and personal development.  I utilize evidence-based, trauma-informed methodologies tailored to each client's unique needs. My approach integrates cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing and mindfulness practices, and strength-based strategies to empower you on your healing journey. I am particularly passionate about supporting women through addiction recovery and healing. I understand the unique challenges faced in recovery, including co-occurring trauma and societal pressures.  My specialized work in this area focuses on creating individualized paths to healing that honor each individual's story and strengths.  I welcome the opportunity to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Kerrie is not currently accepting new clients
Rate is $115 
​Accepts 
Aetna, United, Cigna, Excellus, MVP

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Alana Geller, LMHC (She/Her)
Welcome! As a child and adolescent therapist, my goal is to support children and teens in processing traumatic experiences, developing healthy coping skills, building self-esteem, and fostering positive interpersonal relationships. I specialize in working with children (ages 3-18) who have experienced trauma. I have a deep understanding of child development and how to help children express, understand, and regulate their emotions. My approach to therapy is  psychodynamic and involves non-directed, client-centered, client-led sessions. Building safe relationships with children and adolescents takes time and patience. As a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist, my goal is to help build trust and empower your child to be the best version of themselves. 
I graduated from the University of Rochester with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have interned and worked in non-profit settings that specialize in treating children and adolescents with trauma. I have experience in non-structured and structured play therapy, creative arts therapy, CBT, TF-CBT, and talk therapy. I offer developmentally appropriate interventions that allow my clients to utilize the therapy space in ways that empower them to process experiences, express emotions, and make positive changes. 
Being able to witness growth and instill hope during the early stages in life is my “why” for working with children and adolescents. The power of play therapy is incredible. I hope to continue to provide a safe space for children to show up, challenge themselves, and process their feelings and experiences, all while being able to just be a kid. 
Alana is not currently accepting new clients 
Rate is $125

Accepts Aetna, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, Oxford, Oscar, United

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Clare Haag-Holahan, LMHC (She/Her)​
​I grew up outside of Rochester, NY and graduated from St. John Fisher with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have interned and worked in outpatient settings, high schools, elementary schools as well as private practice in Monroe, Wayne and Cayuga counties in the last four years. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and young adults; I believe this age range is such a pivotal moment in life that goes by so fast. I hope that having additional support during all the transitions that happen in this time of life can lessen some of the difficulties of learning how to grow up in the crazy world we live in. I also have a lot of experience working with play therapy and specific modalities for younger children and toddlers. I enjoy and have worked with all ages and walks of life from 3 years old to 80 and above.
I love to use humor in my therapy, when appropriate of course. I believe that trust is essential in any therapeutic relationship, especially with adolescents/young adults. I enjoy creating a safe space for my clients where their autonomy is not compromised. I am very client-centered and believe that you should have an active role in how we spend our time in session. My goal is for our sessions to feel comforting and challenging. As cliche as it sounds, I whole heartedly believe my clients are in control of their life as well as their therapy. I use interventions from a number of different theories and modalities to provide the best care to each individual person. With that being said I most often find myself using CBT, DBT and motivational interviewing techniques.
My goal is to meet you where you are at, wherever that may be. My hope is my clients are able to find confidence in themselves in sessions with me and feel challenged to make changes in their life. I hope my clients feel as though we are taking on life challenges together, and maybe have some laughs along the way.
Clare is not currently accepting new clients

Rate is $125/115 (kids/adults)
Accepts Aetna, Anthem, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, Horizon BCBS of New Jersey, MVP, Oscar, Oxford, United

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Courtney Wink, LCSW​, Clinical Director (She/Her)
With over 14 years of experience, I have honed my skills to support individuals from diverse backgrounds in their personal growth and healing. I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), solution-focused therapy, and problem-solving techniques. As a therapist, I take an active approach—asking thought-provoking questions, offering psychoeducation, providing practical tools, and collaborating on potential solutions. My clients often describe our sessions as feeling like a conversation with a trusted friend who listens attentively, while also offering direct, insightful feedback when needed.  I specialize in working with individuals who prioritize others’ well-being, often at the expense of their own. This includes caregivers, professionals in the helping fields (teachers, nurses, mental health providers), and those navigating the challenges of supporting loved ones with substance abuse or mental health concerns. In these sessions, I focus on building skills in assertiveness, boundary-setting, self-compassion, and fostering a more balanced, compassionate mindset.  
I also have a strong passion for working with adults who have been newly diagnosed with ADHD. For those who have long struggled with unanswered questions like, “What is wrong with me?” or “Why is everything harder for me?” I find it deeply rewarding to help normalize their experiences. Through our work together, I aim to empower clients with the tools they need to regain control of their lives while cultivating a kinder, more understanding view of themselves.  
If you're looking for a supportive, engaging therapist who will offer both compassion and practical strategies, I would love to connect with you. 
​Courtney is not currently accepting new clients.
Rate is $125 an hour​
Courtney accepts Aetna, BCBS of Massachusetts, Cigna, Excellus, Horizon BCBS of New Jersey, MVP, Oscar, Oxford, United
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Matthew J. Teal, LCSW, CASAC, Owner/Practice Director of RCG (He/Him)
It's not about trying harder — it's about trying differently.  This is where we begin in our sessions. Many of us find ourselves stuck in the same frustrating patterns — having the same conversations with ourselves or our loved ones and wondering why things don’t change. My goal is to help you get unstuck. Together, we’ll use what research and experience have shown to be most effective, combining that with your own strengths and supports to move toward meaningful change.
I find deep fulfillment in working with people who are re-examining their relationship with alcohol and drugs. Over the years, my work has shown to be especially helpful for veterans, college students, entrepreneurs, and those in helping professions such as therapists, nurses, and first responders.
Humor and compassion are essential parts of my approach. You’ll find that I bring a grounded, genuine style to therapy — one that values professionalism but also real human connection. While I take this work very seriously, I do not take myself so seriously.  I rely on you to set the pace for our work together and believe in transparency throughout the process. I’ll always explain why I’m asking certain questions or suggesting specific coping skills, so our work remains collaborative and clear.
I bring 24 years of professional experience to my practice. I have extensive training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindful Self-Compassion. My background includes serving as the Clinical Lead Therapist for outpatient VA programs in Upstate New York, where I also worked as a national trainer for the VA’s Motivational Interviewing program.
I’ve worked in every level of substance use treatment — from detoxification to outpatient counseling — and have provided therapy for employees and family members at a large regional teaching hospital and medical center. In addition, I’ve taught and developed graduate-level counseling courses at Nazareth University and the State University of New York at Brockport.

Matt offers televideo sessions and is not currently accepting new clients. 
Rate is $150 an hour for individual sessions.
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​Accepts Aetna, United and Private Pay. 
*If you are current or ex military you may be eligible for free or reduced fees with Matt through Headstrong Program*

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Dr. Cory Cummings, LCSW, PhD (He/Him)
​Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we are ineffective in building the life we want to be living. My aim is for therapy to be a tool for you to feel more effective and confident in pursuing your goals and to find a sense of well-being in your life. We all have strengths, hope and the ability to heal, but often we lose sight of this. Therapy is about reclaiming these gifts.
I have practiced as a licensed clinical social worker for a number of years, providing both individual and group therapy. I have received intensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and use this frequently in my practice, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, and Narrative approaches. I enjoy working with a range of clients and especially serving members of the LGBTQ+ community and people experiencing symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder. I also have a PhD in social work, which is in good use as a social work educator at Nazareth University and as a scholar focusing on the areas of LGBTQ+ aging, mental health recovery and wellness, and community-engaged scholarship. As a therapist, I tend to be authentic, warm, and use a fair amount of humor (when appropriate). I value the trust and vulnerability that clients bring to the therapeutic relationship and I work hard to honor this. I look forward to working with you.
Cory is not currently accepting new clients
Rate is $115
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, United

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James Teal, MS Ed., Life & Health/Wellness Coach (He/Him)
​I
 hold an MS. Ed. in Educational Administration and have spent most of my career in academic administration and coaching. After experiencing a traumatic cardiac event, I found that the coaching skills I used to help students and institutions succeed were invaluable in overcoming my own battle with addiction. Becoming nicotine and alcohol-free was one of the hardest challenges I’ve faced. I understand the feelings of hopelessness that accompany these vices and the toll they take on your entire being. I was embarrassed, tried to hide my struggles, and didn’t seek the right help, which ultimately led to my defeat. However, given a second chance, I was determined not to let them beat me twice. If you are struggling with addiction or need help recovering from a traumatic event, I would be honored to chat with you. I created RENEW11 not only as a therapeutic outlet for myself but also as a resource for others. We are never alone in this beautiful, indescribable, messy thing we call life.
To further my ability to help others, I have successfully completed an approved Health Coach Training program and am now preparing to sit for the National Board Exam for Health and Wellness Coaches. This exam is administered by the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches (NBHWC) in collaboration with the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME).
As part of my certification process, I need to complete fifty health and wellness coaching sessions. To achieve this, I am offering two free sessions and a Health and Wellness Journal to new clients. If you’re looking to create healthier behaviors and improve your overall wellness, I am here to guide you on your journey.
I have been married for 28 years, and my wife and I love spending time outdoors. We have four grown children and a granddaughter. Life is good, even when it isn’t.
Jim is currently accepting new clients
Initial Visit: No charge
Ongoing meetings: Rate is $100
His website is:
www.renew11.com

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Leanne Wood, LMSW, PhD, Intake and Clinical Support Specialist (She/Her)
Once you have made the decision to participate in counseling, my goal is to affirm this choice and make the next step as easy as possible for you. I am honored to work with the Rochester Counseling Group as their Intake and Clinical Support Specialist. I focus on helping people seamlessly connect with RCG’s skilled clinicians. I have my MSW and PhD, and have been a social work educator at Nazareth University for over 20 years. After working in the Washington DC area, I came back home to my Rochester roots. I love spending time with my family and being close to the waters of Lake Ontario and the Adirondacks.

Each of the therapists listed on our website are independent contractors who are licensed to practice psychotherapy in New York State.
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  • Home
  • Meet our Team
  • Schedule Now
  • About
  • Verifying Insurance
  • Careers
  • Clinical Supervision
  • Services
  • Office
  • In the Media/News
  • Fees
  • Billing FAQs
  • How do out-of-network benefits work?
  • Patient Portal
  • Blog
  • Televideo Therapy
  • Medical Records Requests
  • Provider Search