CALL FOR APPOINTMENT
Executive Team
Venita S. Welcome, MS, LPC Founder and President
Venita Welcome is a licensed professional counselor and specializes in Christian counseling. She is a brain health coach,
spiritual care leader, and founder of The More Project—a sacred initiative for Christians 55 and older who carry the scars
of displacement, disability, and disappointment but still believe in the promises of more.
Her work is deeply personal. Out of her own seasons of pain, loss, and spiritual wilderness came Breadcrumbs—simple
reflections, stories, and sacred pauses that help people reconnect with God in their everyday lives. Whether through a
quiet moment, a spoken word, or a spontaneous conversation with the Lord, Breadcrumbs offers a trail back to the
Father’s heart.
The More Project LLC operates under the umbrella of Christian Wellness Center of NJ. Venita combines biblical wisdom
with brain-based healing to help individuals rediscover clarity, purpose, and emotional wholeness. Her approach is both
clinical and deeply spiritual, recognizing that true healing involves the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Rooted in Ephesians 3:20, Venita's message is clear: God is not finished. There is still MORE—for you, for her, and for
anyone willing to walk the sacred path back to Him.
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.
Joshshea (Shea) Bonds, MAMFT, LAMFT EMDRIA Approved Therapist
Joshshea (Shea) is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with over eight years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and relational challenges. She is dedicated to providing client-centered, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique needs goals, and faith. Integrating various therapeutic modalities like CBT, DBT, and EMDR, while emphasizing the mind-body connection through guided imagery.
Committed to fostering resilience and personal growth, Shea collaborates with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that align with their therapeutic objectives. She is passionate about empowering individuals to cultivate meaningful change and lead more fulfilling lives. Shea, is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in the mental health field to further her expertise and contributions to the profession.
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. She is passionate about helping her clients develop practical life skills.
Mrs. Laing embraces an Eclectic approach to counseling by using techniques and modalities customized to suit the individual and their personality.
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.
Love Williams, MA, Pastoral Counselor & Life Coach
Love Williams, originally named Donald “Donnie” Williams changed his name to Love to support his mission of combating hatred and self-hatred globally. With a profound interest in Africa and the diaspora, Love is dedicated to promoting love and understanding.
He holds a Master’s degree in Theology from Palmer Theological Seminary and has earned a professional certificate in School Leadership and Management from Harvard University's Graduate School of Education.
In addition to his dedication to this important mission, Love is also an accomplished author. In his free time, he enjoys leading yoga and deep meditation sessions, as well as playing the drums.
Operations Team
Carin Essex, MA 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.
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.
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!
Antoinette Adams, EdD Educational Consultant
Dr. Antoinette Adams is a retired special education administrator with over forty years of experience in public education. She formerly served as the Director of Special Education and Intervention Services for the Plainfield, NJ School District where she led with professionalism and a deep respect for the ideas of others.
Dr. Adams’ approach to leadership is deeply rooted in the principles of servant leadership, which is grounded in empathy, active listening, humility, and a commitment to the growth and well-being of others. She believes in fostering environments where every voice is valued, every learner is supported, and community is intentionally built. Her leadership—marked by integrity, compassion, and purpose—has left a lasting impact on both students and educators.
A devoted Christian, Dr. Adams begins each day in prayer and scripture meditation, allowing her faith to guide her service and purpose. She holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Northcentral University. In retirement, she continues to serve by mentoring youth and young adults. She also enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and reading.
Tia Adams, BA Holistic Health Strategist
Mrs. Adams is a certified special education teacher, licensed minister, and published author. She earned a Bachelor of Science at Lincoln University in Elementary Education and Special Education from Grand Canyon University.
With a background in education, nonprofit work, and licensed ministry, she has dedicated over 20 years to empowering individuals to embrace their unique strengths and overcome challenges.
As the holistic health strategist, Tia is responsible for executing initiatives, maintaining organizational flow, and fostering meaningful community connections.
Tia enjoys traveling, spending quality time with family, and expressing her creativity through the arts.
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.
Interns
Interns are closely supervised by senior CWCNJ therapists. They meet with supervisors for several hours each week to discuss their work and to review recordings of their sessions. CWCNJ believes clients receive quality of care when sessions are recorded and viewed in supervision. Interns discuss this option with all their clients, who can opt out if they choose. Recordings are treated with the utmost care, protected as required by the law, and deleted following g review in supervision.
Hollie Taylor - Intern
May 2019 - Fairleigh Dickinson University, B.A. in Psychology
May 2025 - Gordon Connell Theological Seminary, M.A. in Christian Counseling
Michelle Pereira - Intern
May 2017 - Baypath University, BS in Psychology
May 2025 - Baypath University, MA in Clinical Mental Health, Concentration in Trauma