About Us

Meet Our Team

Dawn M. Raffa, Ph.D

Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Executive Clinical Director/Founder

Dr. Raffa is Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes with children and families. She received her Ph.D in clinical psychology from Walden University, attended graduate school at Rutgers University earning a Masters of Social Work and earned her B.A. in Psychology and Philosophy from Rutgers University, Douglass College. Dr. Raffa has been a licensed therapist since 2000 and is a member of the New Jersey Psychological Association, Mercer County Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, Academy of Cognitive Therapy, New Jersey Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists and the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.

Her 20 year work history includes working as an in home family therapist and an outpatient therapist in private group practices in Northern and Central New Jersey. Dr. Raffa received specialized training in structural family therapy from the Minuchin Center for the Family in New York, NY and from the Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center. She also completed Gottman level one training for treatment with couples. In addition, she trained at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia, PA to become a certified diplomate of cognitive behavioral therapy. Dr. Raffa conducts psychological, ADHD and psychoeducational evaluations and is certified in biofeedback. She attended 40 hours of Divorce Mediation training at the Center for Mediation and Training in New York, NY and 16 hours of Collaborative Law Training to become a parent coordinator, child specialist and divorce coach and she served as a collaborating investigator on one of the task forces for the DSM-V. In addition to her background working with children/adolescents, adults, families and couples, she has a knowledge of school social work, neuropsychological testing, cognitive retraining and pain management with personal injury clients.

Dr. Raffa employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT) Acceptance and Committment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) to assist patients children, adolescents, adults, couples and families and her area of expertise is in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders and childhood disorders. She specializes with women and children and incorportates a combination of technique, humor and empathy when working with her all of her clients. Dr. Raffa employs CBT, ACT and mindfulness techniques to assist patients with reframing their dysfunctional beliefs and changing their self defeating behaviors. Additionally, Dr. Raffa supervises doctoral candidates, post doctoral residents and clinical staff in the practice. Dr. Raffa utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT) Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Committment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Ecosystemic Family Therapy (ESFT) and habit reversal training, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR-Level One) and Gottman Level Two Training.

Dr. Raffa is also EAGALA certified to provide equine therapy to children, adults, couples, groups and their families.

Tara Calafiore, Psy.D

Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Director

Dr. Calafiore is a licensed clinical Psychologist providing services in all three of our locations; Pennington, Marlton and Philadelphia. Dr. Calafiore has been with Inner Balance since 2014 and provides evidence-based treatment and assessment for Adults, Children, Families and Couples. Dr. Calafiore received her Psy.D. in Combined and Integrated Clinical and School Psychology from Kean University. She has experience working with clients across the lifespan and in a variety of settings including; inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, schools and traditional outpatient facilities. Dr. Calafiore has expertise in providing evidenced-based treatment to children, adolescent, adults, and families and has received specific training in the acceptance and commitment therapies and mindfulness interventions. Dr. Calafiore’s treatment approach emphasizes behavioral change in the service of her clients’ stated goals. Dr. Calafiore specializes in the treatment of behavioral disorders in children adolescent and adults, including anger regulation. She has given presentations on evidenced based treatments and practices at the Association of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) and the National Association of School Psychology (NASP) conferences. Dr. Calafiore is currently licensed as a Psychologist In both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. She is also licensed as a New Jersey school psychologist and is proficient in providing psychological assessment for both children and adults.

Lyn Watson, LCSW

Lead Clinical Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Lyn Watson is a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Many of the children she has seen have been identified as struggling with anxiety, attention, hyperactivity, defiance, self-esteem, depression, and trauma. She also works with adults to manage life transitions, difficulties in relationships, and the challenges of parenthood. Using various modalities, Lyn’s focus in therapy is to help individuals and families recognize their own strengths and develop bonds that promote a positive sense of well- being.

Lyn graduated from Rutgers University with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Her experience includes multiple years of working in community residential and college counseling settings. She has worked with a wide range of diverse populations and in recent years has focused on assisting women, children, and families with recognizing their full potential using a person- centered approach to therapy.

Alyssa Catuogno, Psy.D, NCSP

Post Doctoral Resident

Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno is a post-doctoral fellow providing services in the Pennington location. She graduated with her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2010, her Master’s of Arts in Developmental Psychology from Teachers College at Columbia University in 2013, her Master’s of Science in School Psychology from Nova Southeastern University in 2015, and her Doctorate of Psychology in School Psychology from Nova Southeastern University in 2017. Dr. Catuogno has experience working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, autism, developmental delays, substance use, LGBTQ, and suicidal ideations. She is also widely versed in the area of psychological assessment. Dr. Catuogno has experience working with clients from toddlerhood to adulthood and in a variety of settings including; schools, inpatient treatment centers, and traditional outpatient facilities. In addition, she has given multiple presentations on evidence based treatments, specifically mindfulness-based interventions, at the Florida Association of School Psychology (FASP) and the National Association of School Psychology (NASP) conferences. She is also an active member of the New Jersey Association of School Psychology (NJASP).

Catarina Martins, LPC, NCC

Lead Clinician, Licensed Professional Counselor

Some of the scariest moments in life are when we feel as though we are losing or have lost control, and I hope to assist you in getting through the chaos. By providing a safe, non-judgmental, and encouraging environment, my goal is to support you in creating a life in alignment with your values and who you would like to be.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in NJ and a National Certified Counselor (NCC), with a master’s degree in counseling from Caldwell University from 2017, as well as experience with CBT, REBT, and ACT techniques, I am confident in my ability to walk with you through the process self-discovery.

I hope to hear from you soon; in the meantime, I will be crafting, reading, spending time with family, friends, my partner, and my cat!

Juliana Collins, LCSW, CCTP

Clinical Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Juliana Collins is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing telehealth services to both PA and NJ clients. Juliana obtained her Bachelor of Social Work from Temple University and her Master of Social Work with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania. Juliana enjoys working with clients on a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, parenthood, grief, trauma and PTSD, sexual violence, LGBTQ+ concerns, and gun and community violence. She is a certified PE (Prolonged Exposure) therapist so that she can more effectively treat PTSD in her clients. She is also a trained birth doula and former staff writer with Therapy for Black Girls. Juliana’s work is both passionate and empathetic, fostering a safe and inclusive space where individuals can be who they are without fear of judgment. She is committed to developing an authentic, transparent, and trusting relationship with each individual that she works with so that you feel comfortable being open. Her treatment emphasizes strengths and person-centered approaches, believing in the resiliency and individuality of each client, that you are your own expert. Juliana identifies as a life-long learner, and is therefore always engaged in literature and trainings that can strengthen her practice. She is particularly interested in further incorporating meditation practices and Reiki in her sessions.

Rachel Andrews, LCSW, CCTP

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Rachel Andrews is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing services to children, adolescents, and adults at our Marlton location. Rachel obtained her Bachelor of Social Work from Rutgers University with two additional degrees in Psychology and Gender Studies, and she obtained her Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. Through her clinical work Rachel has developed extensive experience in working with young women with anxiety, trauma, and issues concerning relationships and sexuality. Rachel has eclectic experience as a therapist having worked with men and women ages 7 and up on concerns including breakups and divorce, intimate partner violence, anger, and self esteem. Though she enjoys working with many populations, Rachel has a passion for helping survivors of abuse and trauma rediscover their identities and learn to trust themselves as their own greatest ally.

Through her extensive work in crisis settings, Rachel understands the importance of meeting clients where they are and tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs. Rachel brings an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Psychoeducation. Rachel’s approach emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship, building a supportive – also very goofy – environment. Rachel can be described as relaxed and informal, but firm when needed.

Outside of work Rachel enjoys cooking, gaming, and binge-watching Marvel movies with her pet birds, Penny and Oz.

Anna Lisk, LSW

Licensed Social Worker

Anna is a Licensed Social Worker with over a decade of experience. Anna holds an LSW in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Anna provides services in the Marlton office and telehealth services in PA. Anna has worked with diverse populations. Her experience includes but is not limited to: medical social work, residential treatment, adult and adolescent substance abuse, mood disorders, anxiety, grief and trauma.

Anna works in a strengths based perspective and integrates various therapeutic interventions to ensure each individual is receiving the best care, tailored to their needs and goals. Some of those include: Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, and Jungian therapies.

Anna is currently collecting hours to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has also completed Postpartum International’s Perinatal Mental Health Certificate training and plans to sit for her certification exam soon. Anna is always looking to learn new skills and enhance current skills to best help her clients. Anna strives to maintain a non-judgemental and safe space for all of her clients. Anna will work with you to identify and achieve realistic, attainable goals.

Lindsay Linebarger, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Lindsay Linebarger, LCSW, earned her undergraduate degree in social work at Fordham University and her graduate degree in social work at Columbia University. There, she focused on clinical social work in a school setting. Lindsay has worked in therapeutic schools and community mental health settings for over five years. Lindsay utilizes mindfulness techniques and acceptance and commitment therapy, as well as aspects of CBT and DBT.

Lindsay helps each client understand their needs and become their own advocate and best friend. She supports clients in building lives that align with their values and goals, all while practicing self-compassion.  She believes that the greatest gift she can give her clients is a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Lindsay is a yoga instructor and meditation practitioner. She specializes in life transitions and works in our Pennington, NJ office.

Melanie Lowe Hoffman, LSW, MSW, MPA

Licensed Social Worker

Melanie is a Licensed Social Worker working in our Pennington, NJ office. She earned her social work degree from Rutgers University School of Social Work. Melanie is also certified in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).

Finding a therapist can be hard and intimidating; even starting a search can involve marshaling real courage. However, in searching for a therapist, Melanie believes reaching out for help is also an act of hope, an acknowledgement that change is possible.

What would therapy be like with Melanie? She takes a compassionate, holistic, and empathetic approach to counseling. When the time is right, she integrates humor as a way of finding levity even in life’s hardest moments. Her aim is to emphasize solutions and strengths as clients navigate what brought them to therapy. More specifically, Melanie utilizes a number of therapeutic interventions to help clients meet their goals. Some of these include: acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and compassion and mindfulness interventions.

Melanie has experience working with anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, borderline personality disorder, life/career transitions, and women’s issues. She believes all clients deserve kindness and the highest level of care regardless of their age, race, or gender identity.

Alex Epply-Schmidt, LSW

Licensed Social Worker

Alex Epply-Schmidt is a licensed social worker with a Master’s degree in clinical social work from Bryn Mawr College. Alex has worked with a range of clients at challenging stages in life at: the Good Grief Support Center, Burlington County Alternative School, and, most recently, Princeton University’s Counseling and Psychological Services. Alex provides services in our Marlton and Pennington, NJ offices.

When working with immediate areas of concern for clients, Alex uses techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients develop problem-solving skills, determine personal goals and reduce stress and anxiety. For clients addressing unresolved difficult past experiences, Alex uses psychodynamic Attachment Theory.

Alex has a particular interest in helping adolescents develop insights and skills to create a personally meaningful life. He has experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, academic stress, and relationship difficulties. Alex has received training in counseling for grief and other forms of loss, and mental health support for children and adolescents affected by COVID.

Melissa (“Minnie”) Blackman, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Minnie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in our Marlton, NJ office with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. Minnie has extensive experience working with individuals, groups, and families seeking support for trauma-related issues, anxiety disorders, LGBTQIA issues, substance use, and somatic symptoms of stress and anxiety. Minnie works through a trauma-informed lens and often employs interventions such as Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Somatic and Mindfulness skills to empower her clients to meet their personal goals. Minnie has a high level of expertise with creating a safe therapeutic space both in person and via telehealth. Minnie believes that investing in the therapeutic relationship and providing safety, consistency, and compassion to her clients are the keys to growth and transformation. Minnie prides herself on her capacity to have collaborative, mutually respectful, and at times silly, relationships with her clients, colleagues and friends. Minnie is an art lover, and enjoys drawing and painting in her free time.

Samantha Banjany, LSW

Licensed Social Worker

Samantha is a licensed social worker who works with children (ages 4 to 18), families and adults by providing a trusting and supportive environment in the Philadelphia and Marlton offices. She has experience working with various clients from diverse backgrounds across settings including the community, schools,homes and outpatient settings. Samantha specializes in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder,ADHD, behavioral concerns, autism, and trauma. She is in the process of receiving supervision hours towards her clinical social work license.

Using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and motivational interviewing, Samantha uses client centered and trauma informed approaches to therapy so she can assist her clients in making positive changes while working toward their goals.

Cody Watters, LSW

Licensed Social Worker

Cody is a Licensed Social Worker with more than 10 years of therapeutic experience. Cody obtained both his Bachelor of Social Work and his Master of Social Work with a Concentration in Clinical Practice with Families and Children from Monmouth University. Cody has worked in a range of settings, including adolescent residential treatment, adolescent and adult partial hospitalization, and adolescent and adult intensive outpatient levels of care. He has experience in treating substance use, mood disorders, grief, trauma, and family dynamics.

Cody utilizes a person centered approach, incorporating a strengths based perspective to assist individuals in the therapeutic process. Cody historically uses a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, with focus on emotional regulation techniques, mindfulness, and radical acceptance skills.

Cody is currently in the process of becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He is invested in the concept that therapeutic services should always be individualized towards the specific person, and that all concerns brought to therapy are valid and important. Cody puts emphasis on building a therapeutic rapport that provides an environment where one can feel free to express themselves without judgement.

Renee Riddell, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Renee obtained her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and Human Services from Chestnut Hill College and her Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Ursinus College. She has 20 years of experience with all ages and specializes with children ages 3+ through young adults providing client centered, unique approaches to a wide array of challenges throughout the years of development into all life domains. The techniques she uses with her clients include CBT, DBT, ACT, client centered and trauma focused. Renee also works with couples, families and individuals.

Renee has an interest in working with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, impulsivity, focus, life adjustments, behavior challenges, and grief/loss. Renee customizes her treatment plans to each client and provides a good listening ear to provide empathy and support. If you have children that need a boost to get through a rough period, loss, involvement with peers, friends and school environments, Renee can help!

Three Convenient Office Locations!

Marlton, NJ

5 Greentree Center
525 Route 73 North, Suite 107
Marlton, NJ 08053

Pennington, NJ

2 Tree Farm Road
Suite A-220
Pennington, NJ 08534

Philadelphia, PA

1628 JFK Boulevard
Suite 1003
Philadelphia, PA 19103