The Northern Light Staff

For Claudia Bayly, therapy is more than a profession—it’s a calling. After witnessing the mental health crisis intensify during the COVID-19 pandemic, she recognized the urgent need for greater mental health support in rural communities. In June 2021, she founded Northern Light Counseling with the vision of creating a space where individuals and families could find comfort, healing, and connection, knowing they are never alone in their struggles.

Claudia understands that healing is not one-size-fits-all. Every individual carries their own unique story, pain, and resilience, which is why she tailors therapy to meet the specific needs of each client. As a Certified Child & Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP), she has dedicated much of her work to helping children, teens, and families navigate the complex emotions that come with trauma, anxiety, and life’s many transitions. Trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), she believes in fostering emotional awareness, self-compassion, and practical coping skills to support long-term well-being.

Her experience as a certified School Counselor in Pennsylvania has deepened her understanding of the challenges children and families face within the education system. Whether it’s academic struggles, social pressures, or emotional distress, she collaborates with parents and educators to ensure that children receive the guidance and support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

But at the heart of it all, Claudia’s work is about human connection. She knows that therapy isn’t just about overcoming difficulties—it’s about finding strength in vulnerability, learning to trust oneself, and discovering moments of hope, even in the hardest times. She strives to ensure that every client feels valued, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change.

Above all, Claudia feels honored to walk alongside her clients as they reclaim their confidence, their voice, and their sense of self. Northern Light Counseling was built on the belief that healing happens in safe, nurturing relationships, and she remains deeply grateful to be part of that journey every single day.

Areas of Concerns:

• Anxiety
• Coping Skills
• Depression
• Developmental Disorders
• Family Conflict
• Oppositional Defiance
• ADHD
• Peer Relationships
• School Issues
• Trauma and PTSD
• Suicidal Ideation
• Self-Harm
•  all child related disorders

Specialties:

• Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Child & Adolescent Trauma 
• Sandtray & Play Therapy 
• Working towards Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Certification

 Specialties: 

• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Suicidal Ideation
• Self-Harm
• Foster Care
• Anger Issues
• Peer Relationships
• Trauma
• LGBTQ+
• School-related concerns  

Specialties:

• Art Therapy 
• Play Therapy
• EMDR
• CBT
• Mindfulness 
• Family Systems Theory
• Person-Centered Therapy
• Holistic Growth
• LGBTQ+ Issues
• Trauma 
• Anxiety Management 
• Grief/Loss

David Goddard is a Master-Level Clinician and Nationally Board-Certified Counselor with a deep passion for integrating mind-body approaches into mental health care. Currently pursuing his doctorate degree, David is committed to expanding his expertise in holistic healing, blending traditional counseling techniques with yoga, breathwork, and meditation to support emotional and mental well-being. As a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), he continues to grow in his practice under the supervision of a fully licensed professional counselor.

With over two decades of experience as a student of yoga and meditation and more than ten years of teaching yoga for stress reduction, David brings a unique perspective to therapy. His deep understanding of cognitive science, mindfulness, and body-based interventions allows him to tailor his approach to meet the individual needs of his clients. He specializes in mental and emotional resilience, using evidence-based techniques such as breathwork, guided meditation, and movement-based therapy to foster healing from anxiety, trauma, and stress.

David understands that well-being is more than just mental health—it’s about nurturing the connection between the mind and body.  Additionally, clients of David (and any therapist at our center) receive a 25% discount on yoga classes, further promoting a holistic path to healing.

If you are looking for a therapist who embraces a whole-person approach to healing, David Goddard offers a compassionate, integrative, and empowering space to explore your journey toward balance and well-being. Whether through talk therapy, breathwork, or movement-based practices, David is here to guide you every step of the way. 

Claire Little, M.A., LAPC, is a compassionate master-level art therapist dedicated to helping children and adolescents navigate life’s challenges through the transformative power of creative expression. A proud graduate of Marywood University, Claire holds the title of Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), signifying her commitment to ongoing professional development and clinical excellence under the supervision of a fully licensed counselor.

With extensive experience working in both group and individual settings, Claire specializes in using art psychotherapy and expressive therapies to support young individuals in developing coping skills, emotional regulation, pro-social behaviors, and self-identity. She believes that creativity offers a powerful, nonverbal way for children and teens to process emotions, build resilience, and gain self-awareness in a safe and supportive environment.

Claire’s professional interests include school-based art therapy, trauma and resiliency, and anxiety and stress reduction. She is deeply passionate about making therapy engaging, accessible, and meaningful for every child she works with, tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs.

Whether guiding a group through an art therapy session or working one-on-one with a client, Claire is committed to empowering young individuals to express themselves authentically and discover their inner strengths. If you’re seeking a warm, creative, and client-centered approach to support your child’s emotional well-being, Claire Little is here to help them thrive through the healing journey of art. 

Nicole Stevens is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals on their path to mental wellness. She holds a master’s degree in school counseling from Messiah College and has spent over a decade in the human services and mental health field, gaining extensive experience as a school counselor, school-based outpatient therapist, and mental health liaison for Student Assistance Programs. Her background allows her to conduct comprehensive mental health assessments and screenings, ensuring that individuals receive the right support and interventions.

Nicole’s approach to therapy is collaborative and person-centered, recognizing that healing happens through connection, trust, and individualized care. She tailors her therapeutic interventions to each client’s unique needs, drawing on cognitive-behavioral techniques to help clients identify and reframe negative thought patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and cultivate positive behaviors.

With genuine empathy and a deep passion for her work, Nicole creates a non-judgmental and supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. She is committed to helping individuals set realistic, attainable goals and guiding them toward self-discovery, resilience, and personal growth.

Nicole’s unwavering belief in the strength and potential of her clients makes her a trusted and valued therapist at Northern Light Counseling. She is honored to walk alongside those she serves, helping them navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. 

Nancy White, LCSW, is a highly experienced and compassionate clinician with over 30 years of expertise in helping adults navigate complex mental health challenges. She specializes in treating bipolar disorder, personality disorders, attachment issues, autism, aging-related concerns, anxiety, depression, and addiction, tailoring her approach to meet each client’s unique needs. Known for her empathy and dedication, Nancy creates a safe and supportive space where clients feel truly heard and understood.

Nancy incorporates a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and psychodynamic and attachment-based therapies. She is skilled in helping clients develop practical strategies for managing distress, improving relationships, and achieving personal growth. With a strong focus on empowerment and psychoeducation, she ensures that clients gain deeper insight into their experiences and take an active role in their healing journey.

Believing that true healing goes beyond symptom management, Nancy helps clients uncover and address the root causes of their struggles. She integrates skills training, emotional regulation techniques, and mindfulness practices to enhance resilience, reduce stress, and promote balance in daily life.

Nancy’s deep commitment to building a strong therapeutic alliance ensures that her clients feel supported every step of the way. She stays at the forefront of advancements in mental health treatment, continuously expanding her knowledge to provide the best possible care.

Her ultimate goal is to guide clients toward meaningful, long-term change, helping them cultivate self-awareness, inner strength, and emotional well-being through a structured, compassionate, and client-centered therapeutic process.

Nina Pascolini is a warm, empathetic, and dedicated mental health counselor who believes that healing begins with feeling truly understood. She earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Scranton in 2023 and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC). With a deep commitment to professional growth, she continues to expand her skills under the guidance of a fully licensed clinician.

Nina has a genuine passion for helping others and brings extensive experience working with high school and college students, as well as adolescents and adults in outpatient settings. She understands the complex emotions, pressures, and transitions that individuals face at different stages of life and provides a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their feelings and challenges without fear of judgment.

Her approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative, ensuring that each individual’s unique experiences and needs are valued. She integrates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused strategies, and person-centered approaches, empowering clients to develop self-awareness, emotional resilience, and practical coping skills. She also incorporates mindfulness practices, helping individuals cultivate a greater sense of balance and control in their daily lives.

Above all, Nina believes in the strength and potential of each person she works with. Her goal is to help clients navigate life’s challenges with confidence, embrace personal growth, and create meaningful change. With kindness, patience, and an open heart, she walks alongside her clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. 

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Life Transitions
• Stress Management
• Health and Wellness
• Self-Esteem
• ADHD
• Grief and Loss
• Coping Skills
• Personal Growth
• Mindfulness

In every session, Nina strives to create a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, uncover their strengths, and take steps toward a more fulfilling future.

Shawn Armstrong is a Licensed Professional Counselor who brings both expertise and deep compassion to his work, supporting individuals facing life’s challenges with understanding and unwavering commitment. With extensive experience in community mental health and substance use counseling, he has worked with individuals managing severe and chronic mental illnesses, as well as those involved with the legal system, ensuring they receive the care and guidance they need. His dedication to making mental health care accessible and effective for all is at the core of his practice.

Shawn has a special passion for working with individuals who have ADHD, offering a unique perspective shaped by his own lived experience. This personal connection allows him to approach treatment with empathy, authenticity, and a deep understanding of the challenges and strengths associated with the disorder. His ability to meet clients where they are—without judgment—creates a safe, supportive space for exploration, growth, and self-acceptance.

His therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based techniques, helping clients develop self-awareness, coping strategies, and the confidence to navigate their personal journey. He believes in the power of strong therapeutic relationships, working side by side with clients to identify their goals and create lasting, meaningful change.

Shawn earned his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Child and Adolescent Counseling from Lock Haven University in 2021. His educational background, paired with hands-on experience, equips him to support clients of all ages through a range of emotional and behavioral challenges.

Outside of his work, Shawn finds joy in gaming and cooking, both of which provide him with creative outlets and relaxation. Above all, he takes immense pride in raising his daughter, cherishing the moments they share and the inspiration she brings to his life.

Shawn’s dedication to helping others, combined with his personal and professional insight, makes him a trusted and valued counselor for those seeking understanding, guidance, and real change.

With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Jennifer Mancia, LPC, has dedicated her career to supporting adolescents and adults as they navigate life’s challenges. She holds a Master’s Degree in Addiction Counseling from Capella University and has worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, gaining a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health and substance use disorders.

Jennifer’s extensive background includes roles as an inpatient counselor, partial hospitalization counselor, outpatient counselor, and Clinical Director of a women’s Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) in Waymart. These diverse experiences have shaped her comprehensive and compassionate approach to therapy, allowing her to tailor her work to each client’s unique needs.

Jennifer believes that healing begins with feeling truly understood. Her warm, non-judgmental approach creates a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and move toward recovery and personal growth. She meets each individual where they are in their journey, providing the guidance, encouragement, and practical tools needed to foster healing and resilience.

With a deep passion for helping others find hope and strength, Jennifer is honored to walk alongside her clients as they work toward meaningful change. Whether supporting adolescents through life transitions or helping adults overcome mental health and addiction struggles, she is committed to empowering her clients every step of the way. 

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Substance Abuse
• Gambling
• Peer Relationships
• Family Issues
• Trauma

Therapeutic Approaches:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Solution-Focused Therapy
• Person-Centered Therapy
• Motivational Interviewing
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Jennifer is dedicated to empowering her clients and helping them achieve meaningful change in their lives. She is committed to providing a space where clients feel understood, valued, and supported on their path to healing

Christie McCabe brings a unique fusion of psychology, movement, and expressive arts to her therapeutic work, helping individuals, couples, and families deepen their connection to themselves and each other. Currently pursuing her Master’s in Dance/Movement Therapy & Couples and Family Therapy at Antioch University New England, Christie is passionate about the healing power of movement in fostering emotional awareness, self-expression, and transformation.

With a Bachelor’s in Psychology from SUNY New Paltz and years of experience as a master Pilates instructor in Narrowsburg, NY, Christie understands firsthand how the body holds and processes emotions. She believes that movement can be a gateway to healing, allowing clients to identify, regulate, and release emotions stored in the body that may be difficult to express in words. By incorporating Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) techniques, she helps clients explore their emotional experiences through movement, build greater mind-body awareness, and develop tools for stress relief, self-regulation, and connection.

Christie works with couples and families, guiding them toward deeper communication, emotional attunement, and meaningful relationships. She integrates collaborative therapeutic models such as Narrative Therapy, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, empowering clients to reshape their personal and relational narratives in alignment with their values and goals.

Christie is excited to bring Dance/Movement Therapy to the community, offering a holistic and embodied approach to mental health. Whether working one-on-one or in group settings, she creates a safe and supportive space where clients can move, express, and heal in ways that feel natural and authentic to them.

She is thrilled to be part of the Northern Light Counseling team and looks forward to helping individuals, couples, and families reclaim their inner wisdom, deepen their connections, and move toward healing and growth. ✨

Tracy Bajadek is a gentle guide and a joyful presence in the lives of the children and families she works with. With over 20 years of experience in human services, Tracy has dedicated her career to supporting and uplifting children, creating spaces where they can feel safe, valued, and free to be themselves.

Her journey with yoga as a healing practice began in 2022, when she became a 95-hour Registered Children’s Yoga Teacher (RCYT). Driven by a deep desire to help children develop self-care, confidence, and emotional awareness, she blends movement, music, breathwork, and mindfulness into her classes, making each session a playful, engaging, and heart-centered experience.

Tracy’s love for teaching blossomed into Buds in Bloom Kids Yoga, where she shares the magic of yoga with children and families, offering personalized and inclusive classes that meet each child where they are. Her approach is rooted in compassion, creativity, and connection, helping children cultivate self-love, resilience, and a sense of inner peace.

Her training includes:

• 200-hour RYT certification – Boundless Yoga Studio, Stroudsburg, PA
• 95-hour RCYT certification – Deven Sisler Yoga, Bend, OR

With every class she teaches, Tracy fosters a nurturing environment where children can grow, explore, and thrive. She believes that through movement, breath, and mindfulness, kids can build the tools they need to navigate life with joy and confidence.

Tracy is honored to guide children on their journey of self-discovery, helping them bloom into their fullest potential—one breath, one pose, and one moment at a time.

Kirsten Gillern, MT-BC, is a board-certified music therapist and a dedicated full-time behavioral health technician in the Community and School-Based Behavioral Health (CSBBH) program. Kirsten earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy with a minor in Peace and Justice Studies from Marywood University. She completed her music therapy internship at Summit Music Therapy and Saint Joseph’s Center, gaining extensive clinical experience across diverse populations.

Kirsten specializes in caregiver-and-me music classes at Northern Light Counseling Center, fostering meaningful connections through music-based activities. Her professional journey has included working with children across various environments, such as caregiver-and-me music classes, individual music therapy sessions, and adaptive music lessons. Additionally, her experience spans across different age groups, providing music therapy services to adolescents in both individual and group settings, as well as enriching the lives of older adults through sessions in nursing homes and hospice care facilities.

Guided by a deeply client-centered and humanistic approach, Kirsten believes passionately in music’s unique ability to enhance quality of life, encourage personal growth, and support emotional well-being. She is thrilled to bring her enthusiasm, expertise, and therapeutic insight to Northern Light Counseling Center, where she looks forward to making a positive impact on the community through the transformative power of music.