Meet our team of trauma based therapists
Kristina Silvestry (She/Her), MA, NCC, LPC, ACS, CCTP, RYT-500
Owner, Therapist, Yoga Instructor
Kristina Silvestry is the founding director of Peace of Mind Yoga, Counseling, and Wellness Center. Kristina is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey, nationally board certified with a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Marywood University, and a current volunteer confidential sexual violence advocate.
Kris is currently accepting appointments for Safe and Sound Protocol and EMDR Intensives. Click here to set up your 15-minute consultation.
Click here to sign up for yoga classes with Kristina.
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In 2008, under the guidance of Ruth Castellano, Kristina was introduced to Sandplay Therapy, a Jungian-based counseling modality that was instrumental to her growth both professionally and personally.
Furthering her studies, she became trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and obtained her Certified Clinical Trauma Professional designation. These modalities allow Kris to connect and provide a safe space for people working through multiple life experiences.
Over the years, Kris has committed her professional work to non-profit organizations in the trauma field as a counselor or supervisor. While working within the field, Kristina was able to identify the need for a holistic method, including body, mind, and spirit. The impact of her experiences motivated her to research yoga schools. Through NJ Yoga Teacher Training under Stephanie Parcells, Donna D'Onofrio, and Cindy Romano, Kristina earned her 500-hour yoga teacher certification.
Wanting to deepen her knowledge, Kristina engaged in a week-long teacher immersion with world-renowned yoga teacher Seane Corn through Spirit Speaks. Through this training, Kristina learned how to tap into the Jungian philosophies and combine them with the eight limbs of yoga to create a more profound flow sequence while teaching.
After YTT, Kristina obtained her 50-Hr Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher Certification through BodyWise Foundation. BodyWise Foundation offers trauma-informed yoga programs, professional trainings, and international aid to facilitate healing trauma.
In May 2020, Kris was certified with the Accessible Yoga Training Academy with Jivana Heyman, Amber Karnes, Kelley Palmer, and Susanna Barkataki. In addition, Kris recently completed Applied Polyvagal Theory in Yoga with Dr. Ariel Schwartz, Healing Trauma Training with Dr. Peter Levine, Integrative Somatic Therapy with The Embody Lab, A Year of Polyvagal with Deb Dana, Scott Moore's Yoga Nidra 20 hour certification, the Safe and Sound Protocol with Dr. Steven Porges, and Dr. Naomi Pagan Fox's 50 hour Yin Yoga Level 1 Training.
In addition to the in-depth trainings, Kristina is also a Reiki III practitioner, certified in Restorative and Prenatal Yoga, recipient of the Union County Woman of the Year award, and a former alternate delegate for the YWCA World Council in Zurich, Switzerland. Kris is also trained in sound healing.
Wanting a location that will allow people to feel safe, accessible, and comfortable while moving and meditating, Kristina found and renovated space adjacent to the existing Peace of Mind Counseling practice. Because of this, Kristina's dreams of combining all forms of health and wellness have come to fruition.
With all of the licenses and certifications being wonderful, what is also important to know is that Kristina is a:
-Mom
-Wife
-Lifelong learner
-Swimmer in the ocean, lake, or pool
-Student of meditation and yoga
-Lover of nature
-Biker on the Peloton with Jess S., Robin, Tunde, and Alex
-Long time gardener
-Iced Mocha Enthusiast
-Listener to music, podcasts, and books on audible
-Fan of the British Baking Show
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Book your 15-minute EMDR Intensive or Safe & Sound Protocol consultation with Kris here.
To speak with Kristina, please call 908-363-5535 x 101
Joelle Anderson (She/Her)
Director of Community Engagement & Program Development + Yoga Instructor
Joelle Anderson, a lifelong student of movement, is a professional choreographer, dancer, teacher, and registered yoga instructor.
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Joelle Anderson considers herself a lifelong student. Her curious nature drives her to feel the world and all it has to offer by living a colorful life full of intention and understanding. As a facilitator of movement and wellness, she is a professional choreographer, dance educator, reiki practitioner, and registered yoga instructor who is passionate about helping people connect more deeply to themselves. At Peace of Mind Yoga, Counseling, and Wellness Center, Joelle is the Director of Client and Community Services as well as a yoga instructor trained in sound healing.
She is a graduate of The Ailey School, the official school of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. She has had the privilege of performing works by Sidra Bell, Darrell Grand Moultrie, Amy Hall, Ray Mercer, Matthew Rushing, Judine Somerville and Luis Salgado. Ms. Anderson is a former recipient of the New Jersey Governor’s Award in Arts Education, Excellence in Dance. Joelle is also a dance educator and choreographer for Middletown Dance Academy where her work has received high recognition and multiple choreographer awards throughout the years. While technique and training is often seen as the backbone of dance education, Joelle believes in connecting with her students and mentoring them on the importance of how they show up in the world.
Joelle’s continued education includes an Associates Degree in Sociology from Union County College and a 200-hour yoga teacher training from OM Factory NYC under the teachings of Taryn Vanderhoop and Blair Ritchie, as well as a 30-hour “Spirit Speak” certification under the direction of internationally recognized Seane Corn. She has also participated in both an accessible yoga training from Accessible Yoga School and a trauma-informed yoga training from BodyWise Institute, as well as multiple racial equity workshops and anti-oppression trainings facilitated by Tamu Lane. In addition to being a yoga instructor, Joelle is also a certified reiki practitioner under the mentorship of Carol Anne Patterson. She believes there is tremendous power in energy healing and is grateful to have the opportunity to share that with others.
Kim Bosse (She/They)
Yoga Instructor, Front Desk Staff, Client Engagement + Outreach Coordinator
Kim first experienced the therapeutic benefits of yoga in 2012 and knew instantly that it was something they wanted to share with others down the road. They went on to complete their 200HR YTT in 2021 and is a RYT through Yoga Alliance. Kim loves combining their lifelong passion for mental health with their love for yoga. They lead their classes from the heart, holding space for their students and offering a gentle yet empowering approach, with some humor sprinkled in.
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Kim's passion for mental health began at the young age of 10, in which their aspiration was to be a Psychologist when they grew up. They have worked in the mental health and human services fields at multiple non-profits, including as a Direct Support Professional for adults with developmental disabilities, a Mental Health Technician at a psychiatric hospital, and a Peer Mental Health Advocate at an outpatient community center. They also hold certification and past volunteer experience as a Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate, an area near and dear to their heart. It is through their collective work, volunteering, learnings in college and several mental health/trauma training programs, and own lived experience, that they are able to bring a sense of warmth and understanding to the spaces they provide.
As someone with a chronic illness, Kim also has a deep understanding of potential limitations and encourages body awareness and rest, as needed.
In addition to their 200 hr YTT, they have also completed the Trauma-Sensitive YTT through Three And A Half Acres Yoga as well as the Peace Of Mind Method Trauma-Informed Training Program, led by POM Owner Kris, to ensure that they are creating as safe of a space as they can for all who attend their classes.
They have also received training in sound healing, from Gabrielle Juliano-Villani, and enjoy incorporating the therapeutic benefits of sound bowls and other healing instruments into their classes.
Kim currently leads the Free Anxiety/Mood Disorder Affinity Group and the Chronic Illness/Pain Affinity Group.
Outside of the studio, Kim has a profound love for music, dance, nature, writing poetry, laughter, cats, and their loved ones.
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For all partnership opportunities, please contact Kim.
T: (908) 363-5535, ext 106
E: Kimberly@pomnj.com
Sarah Brown (She/Her), MA, LPC, NCC
Counselor
Sarah Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey and nationally board-certified with a Master’s Degree in Counseling. Sarah has over seventeen years of experience in education. Her time in education has allowed her vast experience in assisting children, adolescents, and families to navigate their way through educational and personal hurdles.
*Sarah is not currently accepting new clients.
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Throughout the years, Sarah has worked with a varied group of adults, children, and families who have experienced challenges in life, crises, trauma, and domestic violence. She has experience in group and individual counseling. Sarah was introduced to Sandplay Therapy in 2014. She believes sand allows clients to express themselves in ways they may find difficult to do in traditional talk therapy. Sarah is also trained in sound healing.
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To speak with Sarah, please call 908-363-5535 x 103
Brianna Cheringal (She/Her), MA, LSW
Therapist
Brianna is a Licensed Social Worker with a background in helping others navigate feelings of anxiety, depression, and processing traumatic life events. Brianna has worked with diverse populations who have a multitude of experiences and is equipped to help others address their own areas of concern. Brianna brings compassion, empathy, and acceptance to each individual she works with.
Click here to set up your consultation appointment with Brianna.
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Brianna specializes in relationship issues, adjustment issues, domestic violence, sexual violence, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and stress. She works with children ages 11 and up, teens, adults, older adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community. She is trained in EMDR.
Danielle Heitmann (She/Her), MSW, LCSW, MA
Therapist
Danielle Heitmann is a clinical social worker with a background in complex trauma treatment and spirituality. In addition, Danielle has a Certificate in Narrative Therapy, which helps her offer people ways of finding deeper meaning and, therefore, more possibilities in life. True to the narrative tradition, Danielle believes that people are more than their problems, and she draws on people’s unique strengths to facilitate transformation.
** Danielle is not accepting new clients. Please email josie@pomnj.com to be added to her waitlist.
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In addition to her narrative perspective, Danielle utilizes an approach that integrates mind, body, and spirit. Danielle has also completed a year-long fellowship from the Boston Psychoanalytic Institute & Society, as well as courses in Organizational Psychology, Mentalization-Based Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, and more. She is always seeking to learn more about the art and science of psychotherapy so that she can provide outstanding care to those to whom she has the privilege to listen.
Danielle specializes in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, religion/spirituality, and relationships. She works with all ages, from children through older adults. Danielle is trained in Narrative Therapy, EMDR, and Sandplay Therapy.
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To speak with Danielle, please call 908-363-5535 x 112.
To set up your 15-minute consultation appointment with Danielle, please click here.
Tamu King (She/Her), MA
Racial Justice Consultant
Tamu King has worked in the field of domestic violence, sexual assault, and mental health for over 15 years. She has also been given the charge to help individuals understand how racism continues to affect us and the need to shift our thoughts to make a change in this world.
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Tamu is committed to education; she has a bachelor’s degree in psychology & master’s degree in counseling psychology. Tamu is currently the CEO of The Changed Mind, which was formed to create wellness worldwide: Mind Body & Soul, LLC. She is also a Professor at Stockton University, where she teaches women to find their voice. Tamu would have never imagined that speaking across the US on many topics would be her passion. She is committed to being a light to others. Tamu strives to make a difference in the world through her knowledge and compassion for people.
Nicolette Kelly (She/Her)
Yoga Instructor + Front Desk Staff
Nicolette is a 200 hour Registered Yoga Teacher and holds a certification in Mindful Resilience for Trauma Recovery from the Veterans Yoga Project. She is passionate about creating a nurturing and inclusive space for all practitioners.
Nicolette is also trained in sound healing.
Josie O’Brien (She/Her)
Operations and Community Development Coordinator
Bio coming soon
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To speak with Josie, please call 908-363-5535 x 110
Katherine Omoifo (She/Her), MA, LPC, NCC
Counselor
Katherine is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey. Over the years, Katherine has worked with a diverse group of adults, adolescents, and families. As a counselor, Katherine is dedicated to helping her clients navigate through difficult times and achieve their goals.
Click here to set up your consultation appointment with Katherine.
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Her clinical experience includes counseling children, adolescents, and adults. Katherine provides individual and group counseling. Her areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral problems and social skills issues. She utilizes various treatment approaches such as CBT, EMDR, Psycho-education and Sandplay therapy. Katherine integrates these approaches to provide for the unique needs of each individual.
Her counseling philosophy is to help clients adjust to challenges and life transitions. Katherine's goal is to create a comfortable and non-judgmental environment that allows the clients to grow mentally, emotionally and live healthy lives.
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To speak with Katherine, please call 908-363-5535 x 102
Larissa Ranglin (She/Her)
Yoga Instructor + Yoga Therapist Candidate
Larissa began her yoga journey during a time when she sought to slow down and cultivate a deeper connection with herself. As a New Jersey Licensed Professional Counselor and yoga instructor, she brings a compassionate approach that integrates mental health and physical awareness. Certified in vinyasa, yin, slow flow, chair, and restorative yoga, Larissa offers personalized practices that support overall well-being. Her unique blend of therapeutic expertise and yoga instruction enables her to provide a supportive environment that helps students connect with their intentions in their practice.
Laura Perez, MA, LPC (She/Her)
Counselor
Laura Perez is a Nationally Board Certified in Mental Health Counseling and a NJ State Certified Licensed Professional Counselor.
Click here to set up your consultation appointment with Laura.
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Laura has worked with substance abuse population during her internship. Laura has over 18 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities and over 5 years of experience working with children.
Laura has been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which enables people to heal by reconnecting the person in a safe and measured environment to images, thoughts, and sensations associated with trauma while using the natural healing powers of the brain. Laura also has knowledge in play, art, and sand play therapy. Laura is also trained in sound healing.
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To speak with Laura, please call 908-363-5535 x 104
Erica Russo (She/Her)
Yoga Instructor
Bio coming soon.
Amanda Starcev (She/Her), MA, LCSW
Therapist
Amanda is a Licensed Social Worker in the State of New Jersey with particular focus on the treatment of trauma. She has working knowledge and therapeutic experience with children, adolescents, adults, and families of diverse ethnic groups.
Click here to schedule your 15-minute consultation with Amanda.
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Amanda works from various modalities and utilizes an array of clinical techniques but has formal training in Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Amanda believes that life can be difficult and painful yet joyful and liberating. Developing coping skills, exploring and embracing oneself, and cultivating strength are essential. Amanda is dedicated to helping her clients navigate these sacred spaces to find deeper meaning, overcome personal, relational, and life challenges, and achieve their unique goals.
Amanda specializes in trauma, couples, families, body dysmorphia/eating disorders, and gender. She works with all ages and utilizes EMDR, Sandplay, Art and Music Therapy. Amanda is also trained in sound healing.
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To speak with Amanda, please call 908-363-5535 x 108
Maria Wachtel (She/Her)
Yoga Instructor + Front Desk Staff
Maria began her yoga journey in earnest when she trained as a health coach. Through this training she learned to importance of movement and mindfulness for the health of her and her family. This realization inspired her to become a yoga instructor and share her love of yoga with students of all ages.
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Maria completed her 200HR YTT in 2020. She has since completed certifications in Yin Yoga, Chair Yoga, Yoga for Athletes, and Children’s Yoga. She is Reiki level 1 and 2 certified and also work as an Integrative Nutrition and Health Coach.
“Peace of Mind Yoga is great! I love the multiple class offerings and the flexible packages. Online classes are so convenient. The instructors are friendly and take the time to get to know you. And the workshops are fun and informative. Try it!”
— Client