Our Team.

  • Ariel (she/her) is the proud owner of Golden Hour Counseling, PLLC. She chose to open the practice in response to the COVID-19 pandemic with incentives to increase community mental health service access amidst a mental health crisis.

    Ariel is a clinician with exceptional skills, focusing on practical, task-oriented approaches. Her methodology is deeply collaborative, aimed at imparting tangible life skills that seamlessly integrate into daily routines, thereby fueling personal motivation and fostering growth. Ariel's passion for her work is evident in her enthusiasm for witnessing her clients' progression toward autonomy, happiness, and bolstered self-assurance. Her therapeutic offerings are tailored to each client, emphasizing a client-centered strategy that respects individual needs and perspectives.

    Ariel's instructional repertoire includes skills and coping mechanisms drawn from both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), ensuring a well-rounded approach to mental health. She is dedicated to promoting comprehensive wellness, weaving together the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of health to support the entirety of a person's well-being. This holistic approach underscores Ariel's commitment to facilitating a journey towards balanced, integrated health for her clients, marking her as a distinctive and compassionate clinician and business owner in the therapeutic field.

    Ariel is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, School Adjustment Counselor, Registered Yoga Teacher, and Wilderness CPR and First Aid Certified Guide. Ariel received her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School and Community Specialization Degree from Lesley University. She holds over 15 years of experience working in schools and agencies dedicated to supporting individuals with mental health.

  • Taylor is an exceptionally skilled and dedicated clinical mental health counselor at the master's level, with a robust background in working with children and families. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and is on the verge of completing her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rivier University. Taylor has amassed significant experience through her roles in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and school counseling within public education settings, where she effectively connects with children and families from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

    She has expertly supported children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, Down syndrome, anger disorders, mood disorders, social skills deficits, and life transitions. While she has concentrated primarily on children, Taylor is eager to expand her services to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Her therapeutic approach is holistic and client-centered, viewing counseling as a collaborative process. She adeptly integrates various modalities, including play therapy, art therapy, group counseling, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), ensuring personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each client.

    Taylor is passionate about meeting every client with empathy, respect, and authenticity, creating a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth. Outside of her professional endeavors, she actively enjoys practicing yoga, golfing, relaxing at the beach, and fostering connections with family and friends.

  • Erika Halaby (she/her) is a mental health clinician, educator, business owner, and nature specialist dedicated to providing therapeutic support to individuals seeking mental health and wellness. With over a decade of experience in the field, Erika specializes in guiding clients of all ages through moments of grief, transition, and stagnation, helping them rediscover vitality and purpose in their daily lives.

    Drawing inspiration from the natural world, Erika integrates its elements into her therapeutic practice, infusing sessions with the healing power of earth, water, air, and fire. By connecting clients to the rhythms of nature, she assists them in tapping into their inner resources and finding strength during challenging and uncertain times.

    As poet Mary Oliver once wrote, "Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it." Erika embodies this sentiment in her work, encouraging her clients to notice their inner landscapes, be inspired by their resilience, and confidently share their stories. Through a holistic approach that respects each individual's values, goals, and beliefs, she creates a safe and nurturing space for healing and growth.

  • Melissa (she/her) is a dedicated and compassionate mental health counselor who specializes in working with children and young adults, particularly those with autism, ADHD, trauma, anxiety, and developmental disorders. Her extensive experience includes Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), working in public and private school systems, and providing therapeutic support in day schools and small classrooms designed for children with autism and developmental challenges.

    During her internship at a therapeutic school, she gained valuable expertise in addressing emotional and behavioral dysregulation and supporting neurodivergent children socially, emotionally, and academically. Melissa is passionate about integrating school systems with mental health, utilizing modalities such as Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Bibliotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered approaches.

    Her experience extends to working with college students in advisory roles, focusing on their acclimation to academic and social environments, including work in Accessibility Services. Melissa is also an advocate for mental health, diversity, disability, and domestic violence awareness, having participated in panels and volunteered to address food insecurity.

    With certifications in CPR/AED, Safe Zone Training, and Adult Mental Health First Aid, she values the integration of diverse therapeutic modalities. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Merrimack College. Outside of work, she practices yoga, enjoys art, and loves spending time in nature. Melissa’s commitment to fostering growth, resilience, and connection defines her approach to mental health counseling.

  • Amy (she/her) has always been passionate about social justice. She completed a BA in Criminal Justice in 2015. After having a medically fragile child, she developed a fierce passion for forensic psychology, research, and advocacy. Amy pursued her MS and then her Ph.D. in forensic psychology while serving as a guardian ad litem in North Carolina.

    In 2018, Amy moved to Massachusetts, where she began advocating for the medical and legal rights of vulnerable populations. She has been involved in the Massachusetts Pediatric Home Nursing Care Campaign since 2019 and completed her Ph.D. in forensic psychology in 2020. Amy has multiple publications and a research interest in supporting individuals vulnerable to criminal justice contact, victimization, special needs rights, and those with mental health needs.

    After finishing her Ph.D., she started a research consultation business and began serving children and families with serious emotional disturbances. Amy observed both the micro and macro-level effects that therapeutic relationships can have, as well as the efficacy of certain modalities. Currently, Amy has practiced therapy for two years and is completing her final year of a Master's in Social Work at Boston University.

    Her versatile experience in serving vulnerable populations, educational background, work with individuals involved in the criminal justice system, casework, empathy, compassion, and lived experience enriches the healing process, allowing her to meet clients where they are in their growth journey.

  • Mickey (she/they) is an artist and community member residing in Central MA, who is deeply devoted to their LGBTQ+ and small business communities. They hold years of experience volunteering for Crisis Text Lines, helping individuals in crisis navigate feelings surrounding anxiety and depression.

    They believe that art is beyond just a craft, but also is a therapeutic tool for creative individuals to gain insights into their inner world and understand themselves better.  Mickey’s preferred tool is a camera, but they have extensive experience with all mediums.  Their work has been showcased in galleries throughout New England, particularly pieces challenging constructs of female experiences.  Mickey believes art can be created to learn about ourselves and challenge the world.

    Mickey is a human rights advocate, using art to fundraise for local nonprofit organizations that give back to communities in need.  Their primary focus is within the LGBTQ+ experience.  They believe deeply in the need for the creation of safe spaces for those who often can’t find it in their daily lives.

    With their own experience of owning a business, Mickey also helps other small business owners navigate the world of building businesses that align with their dreams.  They hold a certificate of completion from the EforAll business accelerator program out of Worcester, MA, and never shy away from providing resources that can not only help individuals but help businesses thrive.

    Mickey Lee is accepting all age clients for Holistic Coaching Services.

  • Andy Bonifacio (he/him) is a clinician who offers a safe space for individuals seeking a genuine and interactive therapeutic experience. Drawing from approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Andy tailors his methods to address your specific challenges. By incorporating holistic support measures, he aims to build a lasting connection and provide relief for your mental well-being.

    With a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Cambridge College, Andy brings over 5 years of expertise in supporting young adults and adults in various mental health settings. His areas of focus encompass men's health, trauma, holistic well-being, and independent living, reflecting his commitment to serving diverse populations.

    Andy is dedicated to helping clients gain insight into the obstacles blocking personal development in the journey to self-discovery and growth. By working collaboratively, his objective is to empower clients to overcome these challenges and unlock their inherent capacity for progress. Recognizing the importance of understanding your current position and aspirations, Andy strives to guide you toward a path of clarity and fulfillment.

  • Haoyan (she/her) is a dedicated professional who assists clients in addressing challenges such as anxiety, depression, family conflicts, trauma, emotional disturbances, and behavioral management for children. She employs evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and trauma-informed care, to effectively manage issues related to mood regulation, attention difficulties, phobias, panic attacks, anxiety, and social skills enhancement.

    Her counseling methodology integrates family systems and cognitive-behavioral theories, emphasizing the significance of interpersonal connections. Haoyan posits that personal growth is rooted in the examination of relationships that mirror our internal struggles and strengths. She underscores the idea that, while we cannot control external events or emotions, we have the ability to govern our thoughts and actions. By guiding clients in understanding how their beliefs influence behaviors and emotions, she facilitates cognitive reframing, empowering them to take meaningful steps toward personal development.

    Haoyan possesses an M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Services and an M.S. Phil. in Professional Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. As a Master’s Level Mental Health Counselor, she holds certifications in CPR and AED. With over four years of experience in hospital settings and school outreach initiatives, she supports children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples in achieving their mental health objectives. Haoyan offers culturally inclusive, bilingual services in English and Mandarin and is currently accepting clients of all ages for individual, couples, school-based, and group therapy sessions.

  • Tiana (she/her) is our hero behind the scenes at GHC. She is responsible for client support, financial services, intake support, event operations, and so much more. Tiana established and coordinates our Youth Horizon’s Mentorship Program, tailored to individuals who cannot afford private pay therapy services.

    Tiana specializes in working with youth and teens, holding over 5 years experience working with individuals with disabilities in various environments. This fall, Tiana plans to attend graduate school to pursue a background in Mental Health Counseling.

    Tiana is accepting all age clients for Mentorship & Coaching Service.

  • Robin (she/they) is a clinician passionate about helping others navigate life's challenges while letting their unique qualities determine the healing process. She is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Cambridge College, bringing a strong desire to learn and grow alongside the clients she works with.

    Robin has experience working with adolescents, helping them with social and emotional goals and aligning their emerging identities with the world around them. Robin draws from Person-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, alongside her background in theater arts and creative writing, to help clients explore different parts of themselves while feeling stable and secure in their identities.

    As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Robin's greatest inspiration to practice comes from wanting to help individuals who struggle to find a safe space to explore and live as their true selves. Through her own journey of self-discovery, Robin has learned the value of the therapeutic alliance in exploring what does (and what does not) fit into our personal narratives, and she aims to build that relationship with clients who work with her. Outside of her work, Robin enjoys film, music, playing the bass guitar, and writing poetry.

    Robin is accepting all age clients for Clinical Services.

  • Destiny Butler (she/her) is a compassionate and experienced mentor with a strong background as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). She specializes in ABA therapy, behavioral support, family system interventions, and the development of parenting skills.

    Destiny is currently pursuing her associate degree at North Shore Community College, with plans to earn her bachelor’s degree and become a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). She is especially passionate about improving interactions between law enforcement and autistic adolescents through education, preparation, and open dialogue.

Therapy Animals.

Service and social-emotional animals play a significant role in enhancing mental health therapy and coaching services by providing companionship, emotional support, and promoting engagement. These animals can help reduce anxiety and stress levels, create a safe environment for clients to express themselves, and facilitate progress in therapy. Their presence often promotes feelings of comfort and security, enabling individuals to open up about their experiences and emotions. Additionally, interactions with animals can encourage mindfulness and physical activity, both of which are beneficial for mental well-being. Overall, the incorporation of service and social-emotional animals into therapeutic practices can enhance the effectiveness of treatment and improve clients' overall life quality.

  • Eleanor is a compassionate yellow lab service dog who plays a vital role at Golden Hour Counseling, PLLC. Trained specifically to support individuals navigating various challenges, Eleanor’s gentle demeanor and unwavering loyalty provide comfort and companionship in therapeutic settings.

    Service dogs like Eleanor offer numerous benefits in therapy. Their calming presence can help reduce anxiety and stress, allowing clients to open up more freely. The simple act of petting a dog can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of bonding and relaxation. This interaction often fosters a sense of safety, helping clients to feel more at ease while discussing difficult topics.

    Additionally, animals can serve as excellent motivators, encouraging clients to engage in activities they might otherwise avoid. For those with emotional or physical disabilities, a service dog can enhance confidence and independence, as well as promote social interaction in both group and individual therapy settings.

    Eleanor’s commitment to her work is evident in her attentive nature and the joy she brings to clients’ lives. Through her presence, she exemplifies the powerful bond

  • Lola is a white Persian cat known for her gentle demeanor and calming presence. With her soft fur and bright, expressive eyes, she embodies the comfort and warmth that many individuals seek in therapy. As a social emotional animal, Lola plays a unique role in supporting emotional well-being and therapeutic outcomes.

    Social emotional animals like Lola contribute to therapy by providing unconditional companionship, which can significantly enhance client engagement. Her quiet nature encourages individuals to open up, facilitating deeper conversations and emotional release. The tactile experience of petting her helps reduce anxiety and fosters a sense of safety and trust in the therapeutic environment.

    Research highlights that the presence of animals can lower cortisol levels, promoting. Lola is 99.8% Hypoallergenic.