CALL FOR APPOINTMENT
Executive Team
Venita S. Welcome, MS, LPC Founder and CEO
Venita Welcome is a licensed professional counselor, EMDR for Christians practitioner, and brain health specialist who works exclusively with Christian seniors. Her calling is to walk with those who carry long memories—of faith, disappointment, or loss—and help them find restoration in Christ through the renewal of mind and spirit.
As founder of The More Project, a sacred initiative for believers 55 and older, Venita creates space for healing conversations and new beginnings. She blends biblical wisdom with brain-based care, helping individuals rediscover clarity, peace, and emotional steadiness as they navigate the later seasons of life.
Venita’s approach is both clinical and deeply spiritual—rooted in prayer, neuroscience, and the understanding that God heals the whole person.
Under the umbrella of the Christian Wellness Center of NJ, her work reminds every soul that “God is not finished.” There is still more—more renewal, more peace, and more life in Him.
Venita believes healing is in the story—and that every story can lead us back to the heart of God.
Carin Essex, MA, LAC Clinical Operations Director
Ms. Essex, a Rider University graduate with a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling, plays a crucial role in supporting the clinical team at the Christian Wellness Center, specializing in athletes, adolescents, and young adults.
As the Clinical Operations Director, she oversees internship training, intakes, and various programs to ensure clients receive high-quality care.
Outside of work, she enjoys playing sports and going to the gym, along with video gaming and connecting with nature. These diverse interests contribute to her holistic approach to both her personal and professional life.
Clinical Team
Emad Mounir, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Emad Mounir is a licensed Psychiatrist and board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) with over 24 years of clinical experience.
He has worked across diverse settings including outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. Dr. Mounir’s experience lies in treating adult and elder patients grappling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic illnesses, ADHD, and interpersonal challenges.
Renowned for his alternative and empathetic approach, he offers comprehensive evaluations and recommends tailored pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions to alleviate suffering and elevate functioning.
Dr. Mounir is dedicated to collaborating with individuals to enhance their day-to-day capacities for improved quality of life.
Samantha Hardy, MA, LPC, NCC Clinical Supervisor
Mrs. Hardy is a Licensed Professional Counselor and obtained her Master’s Degree from LaSalle University. She works with adolescents and adults using a Person-Centered approach to meet clients where they are and walk with them to overcome their presenting problem.
As the Clinical Supervisor, Mrs. Hardy reviews clinical notes for the practice and provides clinical supervision to CWC interns working toward their master’s degrees at their respective institutions. Mrs. Hardy assumes the role of teacher, consultant and evaluator throughout the supervision process to help supervises develop their skills in their chosen theoretical orientation.
Mrs. Hardy enjoys traveling, learning about cultures and is a lover of all things Disney!
Joyce Clark-Addison, MSW, LCSW Clinical Supervisor
Ms. Clark-Addison has over 35 years of experience providing clinical supervision, and licensure supervision.
She is certified as a Clinical Social Work Supervisor & instructor for NJ-NASW Clinical Supervisors’ Certification Course. Ms. Clark-Addison supervise LSW, LPC, and LAMFT toward full licensure.
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Ms. Clark-Addison holds a master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University.
Therapist & Facilitators
Uche O’Keem, MA, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Uche O’Keem is a licensed and board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been in clinical practice for 17 years. She obtained her Master’s degree from Rutgers University.
She has practiced in multiple settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, community centers, senior care facilities, home care services and private offices. She has worked with individuals across the lifespan ranging from children to the geriatric population. She specializes in mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders.
Uche utilizes a holistic approach in addressing the needs of her clients and incorporates her Faith as a tool to achieving results and the total well-being of clients; Spirit, Soul and Body.
Valrie O'Connor Johnson, MA, LPC
Ms. O'Connor-Johnson graduated from Nyack College Alliance Graduate School of Counseling. She enjoys working with adults, families, and couples.
Ms. O'Connor-Johnson has an extensive background in healthcare as a Registered Nurse. She is dedicated to helping clients to move from brokenness to well-being using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Christian Integrative Treatment.
Her warm approach helps clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, and interpersonal/relational concerns.
Roy Rim, MA, LMFT
Mr. Rim is s fluent in English and Korean. He graduated from Nyack College Alliance Graduate School of Counseling.
He has experience working with mental health and addictions. He is also the worship pastor at his church.
Mr. Rim's goal is to bring healing to those in the body of Christ.
Shenequa Crawley-Ojo, MA, LAMFT
Ms. Crawley-Ojo graduated from Liberty University. She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. Her passion is working with couples and families building better communications.
Ms. Crawley-Ojo is currently volunteers at Focus on the Family providing hope and encouragement to those who are dealing with depression and anxiety.
Donna Hendricks MA, LAMFT
Professionally, Mrs. Hendricks is a NJ certified K-12 Educator, Life Coach, and a Licensed Associate Marriage & Family Therapist. Donna obtained her Master’s Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from Capella University.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, Mrs. Hendricks practices Systems Therapy approach to create changes throughout the entire family system with an emphasis on Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) and Narrative therapy approaches.
Donna has many interests and has vowed to become a life-long learner, she understands that the world and her clients contribute equally to her growth both personally and professionally.
Paula Laing, MA, LPC
Mrs. Laing attended Pillar University and is passionate about helping her clients develop practical life skills.
She embraces an eclectic approach to counseling, using techniques and modalities customized to suit each individual and their personality.
Mrs. Laing currently leads our Anxiety Management Group, where she helps participants find calm, confidence, and practical tools for everyday life. Join her weekly sessions and begin your journey toward peace of mind today!
Starting in Spring 26!
Rebecca St. Louis, MA, LAMFT
Ms. St. Louis is a Licensed Associate Marriage & Family Therapist and obtained her Masters Degree from Kean University. She is well trained in family systems and also specializes in intimacy challenges that individuals face.
Rebecca specializes in relationship conflict, grief, and parenting issues, she employs therapeutic methods such as Structural Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Gottman Method.
Believing in the strength of each individual, Rebecca works to reduce depression and anxiety while enhancing emotional connection. Through her approach, she aims to empower clients and build healthy self-esteem.
Novella Dorsey BA, Grief Specialist & Facilitator
Novella Dorsey graduated Pillar College with her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Counseling. She specializes in Grief Counseling and Mental Wellness. She is a Certified Life Coach, Life Coach Trainer, Marriage & Relationship Coach, AACC Mental Health Coach, Certified Prepare & Enrich Facilitator, Certified Marriage Mentor, and Certified SYMBIS Facilitator, in addition to being recognized as a Gottman Leader.
Novella collaborates with her clients to set realistic goals, improve life skills, develop conflict resolution techniques, and encourage personal growth. Utilizing a holistic, client-focused approach, she incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Oriented methods to inspire individuals toward achieving balance in their spiritual, emotional, mental, and relational lives.
Chelsey Johnson MA, LSW
Chelsey Johnson is a dedicated Licensed Social Worker committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, understanding, and strength. She believes in meeting clients where they are and providing personalized care that empowers them to move forward with resilience and hope.
Chelsey specializes in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to help clients regulate emotions, build self-esteem, and strengthen interpersonal relationships.
In addition to traditional therapy, Chelsey offers biblical counseling and deliverance sessions, guiding individuals from coping toward genuine freedom and spiritual wholeness. She integrates faith-based principles with psychological insights to promote holistic healing—addressing the spirit, soul, and body. Her greatest passion is helping individuals find their voice, rebuild their lives, and rediscover hope even in moments of brokenness. Chelsey is deeply committed to walking alongside each client on their journey toward healing and restoration.
Outside of her work, Chelsey enjoys mission trips, spending time with her four dogs, reading, going to the gym, and dancing.
Operations Team
Cristina Vaz Front End Supervisor
Ms. Vaz attended school in Portugal. She brings her expertise of 15 years in the medical field to CWC. She speaks 3 languages English, Portuguese and Spanish.
Ms. Vaz will bring her effective communication, love for people, and professional demeanor, ensuring a smoothly running initial intake process and to handle any questions our clients may have.
In her free time, she enjoys to spend time with her family and traveling.
Akisha Canty, MA Bridge Support Specialist
Akisha Canty holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts from St. John’s University and a Master’s degree in Organizational Behavior from Fairleigh Dickinson University. She brings professional experience across a variety of settings, including corporate and adult education, giving her a well-rounded perspective on organizational dynamics.
As the Bridge Support Specialist, Akisha helps strengthen communication and coordination across internal teams. She supports clear information flow and steady workflows, helping teams work more effectively together.
Outside of work, Akisha enjoys staying active in ways that feel playful and energizing. She finds inspiration and calm in spending time in nature and enjoys nurturing her creative side through writing and other projects that allow for reflection and self-expression.
Vanessa Dorsey Front End Receptionist
Vanessa, originally from Illinois, is a highly skilled professional with exceptional organizational and interpersonal abilities. With more than 17 years of experience in ministry leadership and administration, she brings a unique combination of professionalism, empathy, and spiritual sensitivity to her interactions.
Her extensive background in both faith-based service and administrative support positions her well for the role of Front End Receptionist, where she consistently ensures smooth scheduling, effective communication, and compassionate service. Vanessa values quality time with her family and has a passion for reading.
Ariana Lopez-Aranda, BA Public Relations Specialist
Ms. Lopez-Aranda is a Rutgers Alumni with a BA in Psychology and is currently pursuing her Masters in Mental Health Counseling. Her goal is the to one day become a licensed therapist and offer bilingual services.
In the meantime, Ms. Lopez-Aranda is the Public Relations Specialist bringing all creative thoughts and visions to life.
In Ms. Lopez-Aranda's free time she enjoys finding new recipes to cook and bake!
Infinity Billing, Traci Arline, BS
The Christian Wellness Center of NJ has contracted with Infinity Billing to provide precise billing services for our clients.
Infinity Billing & Recovery Services, LLC brings over 25 years of invaluable experience, ensuring top-tier billing efficiency that enables our clinicians to concentrate on their foremost priority—providing outstanding care to their clients. Infinity Billing & Recovery Services' mission is to empower healthcare providers by offering exceptional billing and revenue cycle management solutions that enhance operational efficiency and maximize revenue. We are proud to have Infinity Billing & Recovery Services, LLC as our trusted ally in healthcare solutions.
