Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.
Bell Hooks
Meet our Founder, Ciara Ward
Ciara founded Caring Conversations Center to offer thoughtful therapy grounded in honest conversation and respect for each person’s experiences.
Today, she leads the practice and supports the team who provides your care. Her work also includes writing, education, and speaking about mental health in everyday life.
Meet our Therapists
Different Paths, One Commitment to Thoughtful Care.
Our clinical team includes independently licensed therapists, prelicensed and associate clinicians practicing under supervision, and graduate-level clinical interns completing supervised training. Each person brings their own experience, interests, personality, and way of building meaningful connections with clients.
Loading our team…
Jeremy Santiago
AMFT - PENDING
Prelicensed Marriage and Family Therapy Professional
I challenge clients with compassion, warmth, and encouragement. I meet you where you are and listen first, then offer fe...
Jessica Bennett
ALMFT
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Working with me means having a warm, compassionate space where you can feel heard without judgment. I will meet you with...
Dr. Steffen Gillom
LMFT, PhD
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor
I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself and speak openly without fear of judgment and blame...
Elena Gonzalez
LSW
Licensed Social Worker
I prioritize a warm, comfortable environment where you can be yourself while also receiving straightforward feedback and...
Passion Nixon
ALMFT
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
My approach is warm, collaborative, and supportive. I create a safe space where you can explore your story openly, recog...
Haley Williams
LMSW, LSSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
My belief is that therapy is not a one size fits all. Having open and honest conversations and meeting my clients where...
Lacy Egho
LMSW
Master Social Worker
Working with me is a collaborative, compassionate, and judgment-free experience where you can feel safe showing up as yo...
Diana Aguilar
LSW
Master Social Worker
Working with me individuals will be able to talk freely about their concerns. My approach with clients begins with under...
Jennifer S. VanDerveer
PC
License Eligible Therapist
What working with me may feel like: Honest, warm, and unhurried. You won't be pushed to share before you're ready, and y...
Annah Hoang
AMFT - PENDING
Prelicensed Marriage and Family Therapy Professional
I am compassionate, genuine, and direct. I listen without judgment, help you feel understood, and gently challenge you w...
Tracina Fikes
MSW Intern
Master of Social Work Intern
I offer a warm, supportive space where you can be honest without judgment. I listen first, ask thoughtful questions, and...
Gina Soni
AMFT
Prelicensed Marriage and Family Therapy Professional
I am warm, down-to-earth, and genuinely curious about you. I listen first, but I will also be honest and gently challeng...
Ja Eun "Julianna" Kim Zhu
Graduate Student
Marriage and Family Therapist Student Trainee
Working with me may feel like finally exhaling. I bring genuine curiosity, warmth, and a deep respect for where you are....
Adona M. Pierre
Graduate Student
Marriage and Family Therapist Student Trainee
My approach is warm, deeply collaborative, and grounded in Narrative Therapy. Rather than seeing you as the problem, we...
Meet our Support Staff
Our support staff helps with the practical work that keeps Caring Conversations Center connected and running smoothly. This includes answering questions, coordinating care, supporting insurance and billing, maintaining technology, and sharing helpful information with clients and the wider community.
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Jagatheswaran C.
Billing Team
Empire Med Service
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Anooj Madhusoodanan
Billing Team
Empire Med Service
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