Our Team

Jon D’Souza is a board-certified physician with extensive experience as a healthcare executive and clinical leader.

In his administrative roles, he has led transformative change in quality, safety, service line growth, operational improvement, and patient satisfaction.

He is a passionate champion for the vulnerable and underserved, seeking to expand access to care and ensure the highest caliber of service for those who cannot advocate for themselves.

Ken was appointed CEO of Maryland Wellness in 2021, having joined the organization in 2017 as Chief Operating Officer while it was known as Baltimore Area Community Health Services (BACHS). Since that time, he’s helped grow the agency to six locations (with more planned), expand the team and increase the lives improved.

Ken has a broad range of experience, working with small businesses to large scale corporations. He previously managed international/economic development and social reform within the health, alternative energy and agriculture sectors in emerging markets for BearingPoint and Deloitte. He felt a calling to give back to Baltimore where he’s lived most of his life, which led him to join Maryland Wellness. He devotes most of his time to increasing access to mental health services – particularly for those who might not otherwise have access – as well as breaking down stigmas wherever possible.

Ken is a Board Member of NAMI Metro Baltimore and a recent winner of the 2022 40 Under 40 awards from the Baltimore Business Journal, which recognizes those making a difference in their field and society.

Joining Maryland Wellness in 2020, Casey brings more than 15 years of experience in corporate management and process improvement. He is focused on expanding services and offerings, technology integration, general finance and more. He previously served as Director of Special Projects, where he worked on the implementation of the agency’s Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system.

Casey started his career in the financial world, building businesses from scratch as the CFO at a few start-ups in Austin, TX. After spending his career working at companies that produce a product, he finds it impactful to fulfill a mission that makes meaningful differences in people’s lives.

Daniel Paick joined Maryland Wellness team in 2024 and serves at the intersection of finance and technology, collaborating closely with agency leaders to streamline process and implement new technologies.

Prior to joining, Daniel brings over 15 years of diverse healthcare experience spanning from prestigious medical institutions within the Texas Medical Center to innovative tech start-ups and compassionate mental health agencies.

Passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others, he made the shift towards the mental health space, driven by the commitment to empower individuals and teams and optimize the delivery of care. In short, he wants to help people, help people.

Sydney has worked as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Southern Maryland and the Capital Region since 2007. She officially became Program Director of Maryland Wellness in 2020, following a merger with her team at Alek’s House in Prince George’s County.

Sydney is passionate about helping others through challenging situations. She aims to provide clients with support while empowering them to achieve their fullest potential whether it is at home, within their family or relationships, or in the workplace. She has worked closely with children, adolescents, adults and couples utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, which helps the clients to uncover and alter distortions of thought which may cause psychological distress. She is committed to each individual’s journey to mental wellness and emotional balance.

Danielle joined Maryland Wellness as Human Resources Manager in 2020 with a focus on creating a work environment where employees feel safe, recognized and motivated to contribute to the success of the organization. She’s helped to build a workplace culture and team of people who are passionate about what they do and who are excited about coming to work (some virtually) every day.

Previously, Danielle spent several years as a therapist and counselor and feels those skills have helped tremendously as she’s evolved into her role at Maryland Wellness. She is a proponent of mental and physical self-care and working to make a difference in the community.

Pathik was one of the key founders of Baltimore Area Community Health Services, helping as it transitioned to Maryland Wellness. He currently serves as Executive Strategic Advisor with an extensive background in operations and financial management.

Jenny Ho brings over a decade of expertise overseeing large organizational revenue management to Maryland Wellness as the Director of Revenue Cycle and Billing. She joined the team in 2023 with a focus on revenue cycle management, performance improvement, process implementation, and strategic planning. She has a deep passion for leveraging data analytics to drive positive change in the healthcare industry. Jenny is dedicated to enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring billing accuracy, fostering financial stability so our providers can prioritize patient care.

Since 2005, Sadie has worked across public and private sectors to advance communities and systems to improve the health and well-being of individuals.

Sadie’s specialization is in program development and community organizing. She has devoted her career as a Social Worker to address behavioral health needs across the nation.

Whether it’s one-to-one therapy, peer support, self-help groups, or structured treatment, she believes that both professional and personal relationships are the foundation for healing and wants to create opportunities for individuals to connect, share, and grow together.

Emma completed her undergraduate studies at UMBC in 2019, earning a degree in Psychology, and certifications in Human Services and Developmental Psychology. Her career has spanned various medical fields where she has applied her psychology background to deliver top-notch client care.

In 2020, she brought her expertise to Maryland Wellness, eager to broaden her understanding and skills in mental health. As a manager, she is committed to reflecting the core values of Maryland Wellness. She diligently works on improving the policies and procedures of the operations team to ensure every client and visitor at Maryland Wellness feels like they matter to us.

Lisa joined Maryland Wellness in 2021, where she makes sure that the agency is meeting the needs of its clients and serving their best interests. She also helps implement new innovations to help Maryland Wellness expand its offerings.

Lisa brings over 12 years of management experience in patient advocacy, volunteer services, marketing and spiritual care. She has experience in quality improvement and is a certified grief counselor with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology (Biblical Studies). She finds it very rewarding to work with clients, meeting them where they are to deliver the best possible outcomes.

Our Medical Director is Laurence Greenwood, M.D. He has been a psychiatrist for more than 50 years. He attended medical school at Case-Western Reserve U. and did his psychiatry residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland. Following that he spent two years at NIH in Bethesda with a focus on prescribing medication for psychiatric illness.

Since then, Dr. Greenwood has worked in a number of inpatient and outpatient settings. He came to Alek’s House, the predecessor of Maryland Wellness, in 2003. This has been his most meaningful and satisfying position. He plans to stay as long as health permits.

Olaolu is a Doctor committed to providing expert care to individuals with humility. His experience spans clinical, medication, and interventional management across a wide range of mental health disorders. He serves diverse populations with care and dedication.

Olaolu firmly believes in a client-centered approach that respects individual experiences and journeys. He aims to foster empathy, create nonjudgmental spaces, uphold confidentiality, reduce stigma, and build positive therapeutic relationships that empower individuals.

Clients can expect a supportive environment where they leave each session with increased clarity, confidence, and a revitalized sense of autonomy and resolution. Together, we will work towards your goals with sincerity and commitment.

I have been a practicing mental health therapist for over nine years. My background includes working with individuals in a residential setting, crisis intervention for children and adults, survivors of human trafficking, and substance use treatment.

I specialize in mental health services, focusing on anxiety, depression, and interpersonal/family relationships and conflicts. My therapeutic interventions draw from cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness, focusing on learning skills to manage stress and addressing the underlying issues causing the distress response.

My philosophy about therapy is to provide clients with a safe space to process and reflect, where they can express themselves authentically in a judgment-free space.

Charlie specializes in substance use and addictions, with ten years of experience. He strongly believes in the remarkable resilience and uniqueness of individuals. In his view, people tend to thrive when they receive love and respect. In a therapeutic setting, this translates into communication that is compassionate and relationship-focused.

Patrice has more than 13 years of experience as a mental health & substance use disorder counselor. She originally started her career helping those battling addictions, providing clinical interventions and intensive group counseling.

Patrice brings a deep and meaningful background to Maryland Wellness’ OMHC, including experience as a family therapist, a counselor within the Baltimore County Detention Center and a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) director.

She loves helping clients solve their problems & seeing how happy they become when they achieve their goals. She is an eclectic clinician that is well versed in numerous therapeutic interventions to provide the best care for each client. She is an ordained minister and spends her free time ministering to those in the community.

Sonia is a Licensed Masters Social Worker. She graduated from Simmons University with her Masters Degree in May 2023.

Sonia has over twelve years of experience in different roles servicing a wide range of clients with intellectual disabilities, victims of sex trafficking, and mental health ailments. Sonia believes every client has the ability to heal themselves with a little assistance from someone who can help them to find the “possible” in “impossible.”

Aarti joined Maryland Wellness as Clinical Supervisor to provide therapy to our clients and help continue to ensure compassionate, quality client care. She has a decade of experience ranging from serving as a Clinical/Program Director at other mental health providers in Baltimore to providing support as a school guidance counselor.

Aarti is experienced with crisis intervention services and previously volunteered to provide mental health services at no cost to healthcare workers whose mental health has been impacted by COVID-19 pandemic.

Eliezer S., a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C), graduated from the University of Maryland School of Social Work with a passion for making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges.

With over five years of clinical experience, Eliezer has developed a deep understanding and expertise in treating Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar Disorder.

Eliezer’s clinical training at the VA Hospital in downtown Baltimore provided him with invaluable experience in addressing the complex needs of diverse populations, including veterans. His approach is rooted in client-centered care, ensuring that each individual’s unique experiences and needs are at the forefront of his therapeutic practice.

Dedicated to fostering a supportive and empathetic environment, Eliezer aims to empower his clients on their journey toward mental wellness. He combines evidence-based practices with a compassionate and understanding demeanor, striving to build strong therapeutic relationships that promote healing and growth.

Dr. Simone has expertise in mental wellness including but not limited to trauma, violence, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders and psychotic disorders. She works with vulnerable and marginalized populations, communities and organizations to develop applied solutions to varied challenges.

Dr. Simone’s twenty-five plus year professional career includes corporate training, working within international humanitarian organizations, the legal arena doing this work living on every continent except Antarctica. She is passionate about systems and the people who function in them. Dr. Simone’s philosophy – “If you are ready, to be honest about your pain, anger, and your challenges. I’m ready to accompany you. We’re on a journey. I walk alongside you on your path getting to the root causes. I can’t make issues disappear, but together we collaborate and you gain tools and strategies to practice. Practice makes permanent.” 

She uses a client-focused, culturally humble model of accompaniment that provides completeness and symmetry along the journey to holistic healing, wellness and well living.

Dr. Simone is an alum of the University of Southern California, Boston College, Duke, and Howard University.

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with individuals facing anxiety, depression, past trauma, and underlying stressors that affect their thoughts and perspective. I employ various approaches, including person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness strategies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and cognitive behavioral therapy.

My focus is to create a safe environment for each individual to be able to process their thoughts, develop strategies, increase their positive thought patterns, and resolve the impact of their past experiences upon them.

I look forward to meeting you and assisting you with reaching your goals!

Kehinde is a Mental Health Therapist who has been practicing for over 20 years.

His area of expertise is applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and building relationships with clients to support them through severe symptoms of chronic mental health issues such as anxiety, panic attacks, paranoid delusions, and self-harm.

Fluent in conversational Spanish and coming from a family of immigrants, Kehinde possesses a comprehensive understanding of the cultural adaptation challenges faced by many of his non-English speaking clients and their families.

He also has a background in substance abuse treatment. Kehinde believes that mental health services are essential, and there’s a need to fight against the negative stigma surrounding mental health treatment. He emphasizes that the mind controls the body, impacting overall health. For Kehinde, this is more than just a job—it’s a calling.

Kandyce is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), who holds a Masters Degree in Counseling Education with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling. She has worked with all ages since 2019 and specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered Therapy.

“I have provided counseling services for 21 years. Modalities include individual, family, and group therapy. My therapeutic approach includes multiple techniques such as Person-Centered Therapy, Family Therapy, DBT, SFT, and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques to populations who are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, environmental, relational, and social problems.

I believe each individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and to live life to the fullest.”

Kathleen Young is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Psychotherapist), who has been practicing for over 9+ years in both California and Maryland, and graduated with a Master’s Degree from Pacific Oaks College, Los Angeles, California.

She conducts psychotherapy with teens and adults by providing individual, couples and family therapy. Ms. Young’s treatment emphasis includes Depression, Anxiety/Phobias, PTSD, Inner Child Wounding, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Pre-Marital and Marital Relationship Counseling, Family Dynamic Conflicts, Behavioral Problems, as well as Personality Disorders and inter-relationship problems.

Her treatment interventions are eclectic including Family Systems, Client Centered, CBT, Attachment Theories, Relationship With Self, as well as Psychoanalysis and Psychodynamic modalities. Ms. Young has a core belief that the life span of the human experience can be broadened and enhanced for every individual who has a desire for deeper insights, healing and recovery of presenting symptoms and related problems. She believes that there are many approaches to outpatient psychotherapy and various formats in which it may occur.

Despite variations, all psychotherapy is a two-way process that works especially well when clients and their clinicians can communicate safely and openly, thus paving the way to transformation, successful outcomes and optimum mental health.

Ms. Young’s weekly schedule is: Mondays through Wednesdays.

Demetrius brings his expertise to a range of areas such as lifestyle changes, personal coaching, fostering positive engagement, boosting motivation, and handling mood disorders, anxiety, grief, trauma, communication struggles, and interpersonal challenges. His practical experience spans over three years.

“Success in therapy happens when an individual can discover their challenges are as significant as their values.”

Sharon has been working in the field since 1989, with a strong background in substance use and dependence, Applied Behavior Analysis, and several years in Virginia as a pediatric and adult hospice social worker. She works with all ages.

“I always have and always will. I love helping people find their path to greater joy, healing, and self-empowerment. I am grateful every day that I get to serve AMAZING clients at Maryland Wellness, where we value the whole person and their unique strengths.”

Marlene is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC), who holds a Masters Degree in Counseling and has been trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). 

Marlene specializes in trauma recovery including the various mental health issues that often accompany those who have unresolved trauma including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety.

With just over 5 years of clinical experience in the mental health field and almost 30 years of experience in working with at-risk youth, low-income families, and unhoused individuals, Marlene has a passion for doing her part to empower society’s most vulnerable. Marlene considers it an honor to hear the stories of the people she serves, to sit with them in their pain, and to support them on their path to wellness and very grateful to her clients for this honor.

“I began practice as a therapist in 2016 after serving in different capacities in the behavioral health field for almost three decades. I’m comfortable working with tweens, teens, and adults, and especially interested in helping people with grief, relationship issues, bipolar and related disorders.

As a generalist therapist, I embrace different clinical perspectives in my work, tailoring them to the individual needs of my clients. I value the therapeutic relationship as a safe place to work with difficult feelings and issues, and as a relational ‘laboratory,’ where change happens as we begin to understand our thoughts, feelings, and actions, and those of others in our lives. My core belief about therapy is that real change results in acceptance of ourselves, others, the ‘givens’ of our lives, and responsibility for our own thoughts, feelings and actions.”

With more than 10 years of clinical mental health experience, Mary Ellen has been a part of the Maryland Wellness family for five years, primarily serving Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick Counties. She provides support to the team’s Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program counselors and guides them to best help the agency’s Western Maryland clients.

Mary Ellen previously worked with children and adolescents in out-of-home placements, ensuring care for those who were unable to live with their families. She enjoys working within the team environment to help Maryland Wellness’ clients succeed and spends as much of her free time as possible enjoying nature with her family.

Joining Maryland Wellness in 2019, Jeffrey has more than 20 years of experience providing mental health counseling and case management to help positively impact the lives of others. In his role, he works with the agency’s Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program counselors to facilitate access to care and address barriers to mental health success.

Previously, Jeffrey worked as Program Director of the Adult Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program for an agency in Harford County. He has a wide depth of experience, including conducting/providing mental health assessments, case management, psychological education, crisis intervention, advocacy and work as a community liaison. He served as a Psychiatric Technician in the United States Army, where he conducted assessments and led courses related to self esteem, assertiveness and symptom management.

Joining Maryland Wellness in 2024, Shyetta has 20 years of experience in the mental health field, with Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Case Management being her passions.

As she became skilled in these areas, she transitioned to the role of Program Director in the field of psych rehabilitation in 2004 and is currently functioning as a Rehabilitation Specialist at Maryland Wellness for the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program, which offers support to counselors who are servicing clients.

Shyetta has comprehensive experience with working with individuals with severe mental health issues including building rapport, advocating, community linkage, and teaching life skills. She especially enjoys witnessing positive outcomes of clients who have struggled with mental illness most of their lives.

Graduating from Salisbury University with a Masters in Social Work in 2018 and having over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, Danesha is a new addition to the Maryland Wellness team. She supports the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program as a Rehabilitation Specialist to provide support and guidance to Maryland Wellness counselors to assist in ensuring access to services for the clients in Baltimore.

Through her time in the mental health field, Danesha has previous experience working with families, substance use/addictions, LGTBQIA community, and those impacted by the correctional system.

She firmly believes that with the right determination, dedication to growth and active engagement in the treatment process, anyone can accomplish their goals.

Akyra James is a Rehabilitation Counselor with over eight years of experience in the field. Her professional journey began with direct support roles, where she gained valuable expertise working with providers specializing in mental illness, developmental disabilities, and substance abuse treatment.

“I believe the PRP Program is vital for our community. It bridges gaps between resources and services, helping families facing disabilities, difficulties, and other barriers. The program supports their day-to-day living, ensuring their needs are met and goals achieved.”

Akyra pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Psychology from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Following her graduation, she has gained diverse experience across multiple organizations, providing comprehensive case management services to individuals requiring support.

“Growing up, I lived with my cousin, who had autism, and my grandmother, who used a wheelchair. This experience instilled in me the importance of helping those who struggle to care for themselves. I found genuine joy in supporting both of them during my childhood years.”

Akyra follows the famous quote: “If you do something you love, you’ll never have to work a day in your life. I’ve accomplished that by being a part of Maryland Wellness.”

Rikki has been a Rehabilitation Counselor for two years. Her expertise lies in perceiving individuals for their inherent qualities, rather than defining them by their past experiences.

“I believe therapy can be the microscope we all need to recognize our own stumbling blocks. It allows us to learn more about ourselves, examining how past situations and life experiences have shaped our thinking and overall behaviors. This process helps us become better, more emotionally mature versions of ourselves.”

Arnisha is a dedicated Rehabilitation Counselor with the Maryland Wellness Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP).

She provides comprehensive case management services, guiding individuals through life’s challenges while supporting their mental health goals.

Arnisha believes that PRP is vital in enhancing the quality of life for those facing mental health struggles, ultimately contributing to a safer and stronger community. Since stepping into her role, she has found deep fulfillment in making a tangible difference in the lives of her clients. Her passion is ignited by the process of setting and achieving meaningful goals, which she sees as key to her clients’ progress and overall well-being

I specialize in older adults, obtaining entitlements, and community resources. I have been a Rehabilitation Counselor at MD Wellness for 5 years. I believe PRP services are truly beneficial for our clients, providing added support and helpful guidance to achieve their goals, manage life stressors, and build a solid, stable foundation for the life they envision.

“I have been working with Maryland Wellness as a PRP Counselor since 2018. I graduated from Frostburg State University with a Bachelor of Science and majored in Psychology. I have a passion for helping individuals become more independent and believe that it is crucial to develop a positive rapport with each client. I help my clients find employment opportunities, housing, benefits such as food stamps, transportation, and educational resources, and provide education on coping strategies for depression and anger management skills. I also inform my clients of resources in the community that are available monthly. The PRP Program is a great addition to therapy services as it provides additional support.”

“I love what I do and I love getting to do it with Maryland Wellness.

I get to work side by side with my clients to overcome their unique obstacles to happiness and stability. This can look like helping folks obtain entitlements and other basic needs. Including, but not limited to, clothing, diapers, housing, transportation, employment services  and personal hygiene products. I do this by accompanying my clients to DSS/DHS and other local community resources and assist with paperwork and meeting the requirements to obtain services.

I also work side by side with my clients to develop life skills, emotional regulation skills, distress tolerance skills, executive functioning skills, financial literacy skills and also interpersonal and social skills. I believe that everyone is unique in their own wonderful way and we are stronger together. I use a person-centered strength-based approach with all of my clients as we work together towards achieve their goals. I am a proud member of the LGBTQPIA+ community and I do provide gender affirming care.”

My degrees are an Associate in Addiction Counseling and a Bachelor in General Psychology. I’m currently working on my Masters in General Psychology. My area of expertise is helping clients develop coping skills to help them with emotional regulation/anger management.

I’ve worked in the PRP field for 3 years, and I provide PRP services to clients who live in Garrett County. I help clients develop coping skills, anger management skills, help clients connect to community resources, help develop social and communication skills, among other services! I meet clients where they are and help them along the way with the process of achieving their goals and reaching their highest quality of life.

I believe everyone needs a little help sometimes and together we can all achieve our goals, reach our highest quality of life, and be the best version of ourselves! We are all in this together.

Ryan has been a rehabilitation counselor for 5 years with Maryland Wellness, operating out of our Oakland office. He has developed a strong specialization in the complex field of family dynamics. He has the ability to navigate and mediate familial relationships, providing support to family members and helping them understand one another better.

Ryan excels in teaching and enhancing communication skills. He firmly believes in the power of effective communication and its role in fostering healthier relationships.

He also offers emotional regulation strategies. He guides his clients through identifying, understanding, and managing their emotions in a healthier, more productive way. His multifaceted expertise has made him a valuable asset to our team.

“I have been a PRP Counselor since 2018. I am currently pursuing my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. I believe in forming an authentic therapeutic relationship with my clients where they feel safe and heard.  I enjoy advocating for my clients, helping them locate community resources, and assisting them in crisis situations. I believe that Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services can be an additional support for individuals looking to deal with life challenges and individual growth.”