About Us

 A Counselor at Gateway Wellness Center,
Ayoola Oguntuase is a Master's Level Clinician who has worked with children and families for over 5 years. Ayoola’s prior experience with working in early childhood education has equipped her with the necessary tools and knowledge to work with children at various developmental stages. Previously, Ayoola provided social services such as ongoing support and prenatal/postnatal education for expectant mothers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania through Gateway Community Action Partnership. Ayoola’s interest in mental health began during her undergraduate education where she majored in Biology and minored in Psychology at Thomas Jefferson University. The integration of these two disciplinary fields and her previous work history in childhood education has led Ayoola to specialize in providing mental health services to children and adolescents. Ayoola obtained her Master’s degree in Community and Trauma Counseling from Thomas Jefferson University where she also received a certification in Play Therapy. She has experience in evidence-based treatment approaches such as Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, TF-CBT, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.  Ayoola Oguntuase is a Master's Level Clinician who has worked with children and families for over 5 years. Ayoola’s prior experience with working in early childhood education has equipped her with the necessary tools and knowledge to work with children at various developmental stages. Previously, Ayoola provided social services such as ongoing support and prenatal/postnatal education for expectant mothers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania through Gateway Community Action Partnership. Ayoola’s interest in mental health began during her undergraduate education where she majored in Biology and minored in Psychology at Thomas Jefferson University. The integration of these two disciplinary fields and her previous work history in childhood education has led Ayoola to specialize in providing mental health services to children and adolescents. Ayoola obtained her Master’s degree in Community and Trauma Counseling from Thomas Jefferson University where she also received a certification in Play Therapy.  She has experience in evidence-based treatment approaches such as Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, TF-CBT, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. 

 Amber Pierce is a Licensed Associate Counselor who is currently working towards full licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor.  Amber holds a Master’s from Walden University in Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelors in Psychology: Child Behavioral Services from Rowan University.  Amber  previously worked for the Head Start program as the Mental Health & Disabilities Coordinator for 6 years providing in classroom support services, advocacy, and behavioral interventions to youth and families.  Additionally, Amber has provided in home therapy services to children and  families for ABC Therapy and also outpatient services for Oaks Integrated Care EISS program.  Amber finds Cognitive Behavioral therapy as an effective approach in working with individuals, but aims to utilize an eclectic approach.  Amber’s Motto is, “If you change your perspective, you can change your life.” 

Simone Henry has been a licensed clinical counselor since 2018. She has provided mental health and sex-offender outpatient treatment at Kintock’s re-entry program, located in Bridgeton, New Jersey. She has also worked in the Bridgeton school system as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher. Additionally, she was a caretaker for developmentally challenged adults and children. Simone has also provided children and family therapy through ABC therapy agency and interned at Kennedy Behavioral Outpatient Therapy. She holds licensure and certification, they include Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and National Certified Counselor (NCC). Simone earned a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wilmington University and a Bachelor of Psychology from Rutgers University located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. She finds Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques to be very useful when treating people with mental health needs, and behavioral issues. Her motto is “Help people help themselves.” Simone Henry has been a licensed clinical counselor since 2018. She has provided mental health and sex-offender outpatient treatment at Kintock’s re-entry program, located in Bridgeton, New Jersey. She has also worked in the Bridgeton school system as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher. Additionally, she was a caretaker for developmentally challenged adults and children. Simone has also provided children and family therapy through ABC therapy agency and interned at Kennedy Behavioral Outpatient Therapy. She holds licensure and certification, they include Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and National Certified Counselor (NCC). Simone earned a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wilmington University and a Bachelor of Psychology from Rutgers University located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. She finds Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques to be very useful when treating people with mental health needs, and behavioral issues. Her motto is “Help people help themselves.” 

 Antwan is a Licensed Social Worker and is currently working towards obtaining his License in Clinical Social Work. Antwan obtained his Master's Degree in Social Work from Stockton University in the spring of 2021. Antwan also has an undergraduate degree in Behavioral Science obtained from Wilmington University in the Spring of 2018. Antwan was previously employed at Youth Consultation Services where he served as the lead clinician and worked with youth from the ages of 17-21 with varying mental health and behavioral needs. Furthermore, Antwan has provided in-home services to children through ABC therapy services. Before becoming a clinician, Antwan worked with youth in a residential setting for over 10 years. Antwan also has experience as a care manager through Cape Atlantic INK where he assisted families with finding community resources. Antwan has utilized cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational Interviewing, and solution focused therapy as tools to assist his clients with meeting their treatment goals. His motto is “Seek progress not perfection.”  

 McKenzie Buck has a graduate degree in Social Work. McKenzie recently completed her Master’s program at Fairleigh Dickinson University in May 2023. She completed her undergraduate degree from Rowan University in May in 2020. Her prior experience is working with high functioning adults with autism while they are focusing on seeking higher education and employment. McKenzie also worked in residential programs providing group services and life skills development to the youth. 

 Cassandra Avila, proudly rooted in Philadelphia, discovered her love for art and community growth while navigating the colorful streets of her underprivileged neighborhood. With a focus on program development and event coordination, she is dedicated to fostering unity and community engagement. As a Program Coordinator, Cassandra is committed to empowering individuals to advocate for themselves and their neighborhoods while also nurturing safe spaces for wellness, ensuring that everyone has a place to cultivate their mind, body, and soul. Her unwavering commitment to community enrichment drives her work, inspiring others to join her in building a stronger, more vibrant society. 

 Jacqueline Holmes, a native of Paulsboro, NJ, brings a wealth of experience to her role. With a 10-year background in Licensed Practical Nursing, she has served our local communities in various capacities, including trauma, orthopedic, and plastic surgery, as well as OB/GYN and Behavioral Health. Her passion for serving stems from a genuine love for people. She is driven by the goal of raising our communities to nurture great leaders, particularly in the field of mental health. Complementing her extensive experience are certifications in Crisis Intervention, Cultural Humility, Mental Health First Aid, and Narcan administration, demonstrating her dedication to providing essential resources for the betterment of our communities. 

 Damon Hickman, born and raised in Cumberland County, NJ, has been shaped by its tight-knit communities and the values of compassion and solidarity ingrained in its fabric. From an early age, he has found fulfillment in helping others. Whether it's lending a listening ear, volunteering in local initiatives, or actively participating in community events, he finds joy in making a positive difference in people's lives. His journey began at an early age as a Youth Counselor, Direct Support Professional, Group Home Manager, and lastly as a Director of Operations, all within the Developmentally Disabled field. Now, as a Domestic Violence Intervention Specialist at Gateway Wellness Center, he strives to contribute to the well-being and growth of those around him, fostering environments where individuals can thrive and find solace. 

Teraya Morgan is a native of Cumberland County, NJ. Her ongoing involvement in community programs is rooted in her active presence within the local youth community, extending from coaching to mentoring in both athletic and academic pursuits. Teraya is a dedicated and passionate community liaison with experience in fostering strong relationships between organizations and the communities they serve. Teraya is trained and certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid USA, Mental Health First Aid for Military, Veterans and their Families, and

Narcan administration. She excels in bridging communication gaps and implementing collaborative initiatives that address community needs. Teraya is known for her exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and ability to empathize with diverse perspectives. She is committed to advocating for inclusivity, equity, and social justice, and she thrives in environments where collaboration and community engagement are paramount. Teraya strives to continue to bring communities together and uplift the youth along her journey here at Gateway Wellness Center as our Community Liaison.

 Born in New Jersey, she developed her passion for music and aiding others while growing up in a gifted yet disadvantaged minority environment. Specializing in counseling and case management for at-risk adolescents, she endeavors to restore hope within the community. As a

counselor, Tasha strives to foster a secure and nurturing environment for at-risk adolescents and their families to openly discuss their challenges. She tailors treatment for each client, taking into account their individual histories, experiences, and needs. Collaborating with community groups and fellow professionals, she works towards developing comprehensive support systems to address the diverse difficulties faced by at-risk adolescents and families in her neighborhood. Her goal is to exert a long-term positive influence and enhance the overall well-being of her clients.

Ani'ya Taylor grew up in Penns Grove, NJ, which is located in Salem County. Growing up in a small town inspired Ani'ya to find a purpose in helping people in need. Ever since Aniya was a child, she has been destined to be involved in helping out her community in the mental health field. With a lack of resources in her small town, Ani'ya knew she somehow wanted to make a change. Ani'ya completed her undergraduate program at Rowan University in 2022 and continued her success at Gateway Wellness Center. During her time at Gateway Wellness

Center, it inspired her to further her education to enhance her role as a Mental Health Advocate.

 Gianna Pagano is a Licensed Associate Art Therapist who is currently working towards full licensure as a LPAT-ATR. Gianna holds a Master’s from Hofstra University in Creative Arts Therapy and counseling and Bachelors in Art therapy from Temple University. Gianna previously interned at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital providing emotional support and art as therapy to youth and families. Giana also has experience in coordinating art as therapy groups with youth and children. Gianna’s previous work history has led her to specialize in providing art therapy and mental health services to children and adolescents. Gianna encourages clients to reach their goals and reminds individuals of their strengths throughout the therapeutic process.