Meet Our Team

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Our Approach

Human beings are complex and have many elements to them. We feel that looking through one lens and not focusing on all aspects of a person is a disservice. All the years of learning have taught us to learn about a person, really learn and understand their complexities and all parts of them mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically The client is the center of our  work. We develop our treatment to address all aspects of a person. We adapt our treatment to fit what the client needs as opposed to the client fitting into what we know.  All of these elements are incorporated into our treatment together. We believe the client is the authority on their life. We are just here to walk the journey with them to reach their potential, whatever they want that to be. 

Meet Our Therapists

Kerri Russell-Russo, MSW, LCSW, CCS

“I want to be a therapist when I grow up”…these were the words in my eighth grade yearbook. For as far back as I can remember, I have been fascinated with the brain, human behavior and anything related to the topic of psychotherapy. After working several years at a financial company on Wall Street in NYC’s financial district, I decided to pursue my dream. I graduated from Monmouth University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work  and a minor in Psychology followed by a Master’s degree in Social Work with a concentration in children and families. I was a member of the National Honor Society, Phi Alpha. 

I have worked in numerous facets including hospitals, schools, group homes and private practice. My love for this work grew and continues to grow daily. Coming to the realization that there was more than traditional talk therapy to heal trauma and treat many diagnoses, led me to seek post-graduate training in an array of modalities.  I began working in private practice over 15 years ago and realized most of us will experience at least one traumatic event in our lifetime

I went on to learn everything I could and feel as happy as my clients when I see them process trauma and become free from its hold. I went on to get my certification in EMDR. Further research led me to Brainspotting and receiving my certification as well.. I spent several years intensely studying Sandplay therapy.

I specialize in trauma and treat children through adults.  I am a Certified Anxiety Trauma Professional  and a Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional. In the Spring of 2023, I became a certified KAP (ketamine assisted therapy) Provider.

My passion is to truly help others to heal on a deep level utilizing both traditional “talk therapy” as well as modalities that treat issues that cannot be resolved by talk therapy alone.  Seeing someone heal while reaching a place they never thought possible is such an amazing thing to witness and be a part of.

Ashley Bartlett, LPC

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and received my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Kean University. I have been working in the mental health field for three years and have worked with clients that experience a variety of presenting issues,  including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, PTSD, and severe and persistent mental illness.

I use many different treatment modalities in my work with clients including CBT, Person-Centered, and mindfulness, among others. I am trained in EMDR and use this modality to work with clients who have experienced trauma.  My approach is tailored  to meet the specific needs of each individual and together, we work collaboratively to reach their goals. I firmly believe that everyone is an expert of their own experience and my role is to provide empathetic support and assistance in gaining the tools needed to achieve one’s goals. In my personal time I enjoy spending time with loved ones, traveling, and drawing.

Kathryn Demuro, MSW, LCSW

I am an LSW and received my graduate degree in Clinical Social Work from University of Kentucky. I have been working in the mental health field for three years and have worked with clients that experience a variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD, personality disorders, and severe and persistent mental illness. I am also trained in EMDR therapy.

 

I tailor my therapeutic approaches to suit the unique needs of each individual, fostering a collaborative effort to reach their goals. My goal is to help my clients feel empowered, learn that vulnerability is healthy, and gain the confidence to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and authenticity. 

 
In my free time you can find me at the barn riding horses, gardening, traveling, and spending time with my friends and family.

Emily Jarema, MSW, LSW

I am a Licensed Social Worker. I graduated from College of Staten Island with both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Social Work. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and families. My expertise with these populations focuses on clients dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, ADD/ADHD, school refusal, self-harm as well as various other mental health challenges. Additionally, I have several years of experience providing group therapy to both individuals and families addressing a vast number of areas including self-esteem, social skills, family dynamics, co-parenting, divorce/blended families and de-escalation tactics among others. 

My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves, build coping skills and develop a sense of confidence in their ability to manage emotions, develop a strong sense of self and improve relationships. I believe in a collaborative, strengths-based approach, working closely with parents, educators, and other professionals to create the most effective treatment plan and successful outcome for clients. My approach is eclectic, utilizing what works best for clients to meet their goals and improve their lives as a whole. I incorporate CBT, play therapy techniques, art therapy techniques, mindfulness and client-centered approaches among others that are beneficial to clients growth towards their journey to healing and self-discovery. 

In my spare time, I love going to bookstores to try to find new books to read. 

Tyler Kennedy, LAC

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with a Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from William Paterson University. In addition to my clinical training, I am a certified meditation and mindfulness teacher and incorporate principles of neuropsychotherapy into my work. Over the past four years, I have had the privilege of working in the mental health field, walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate life’s challenges.
 
My approach to therapy is rooted in mindfulness, compassion, and evidence-based methods that foster deep self-awareness and sustainable transformation. I strive to create a therapeutic space where inner wisdom is awakened, resilience is nurtured, and each individual is supported in reclaiming their inherent strength and purpose. I also emphasize the brain–body connection by drawing on the latest neuroscience to support the healing process.
 
I work with individuals across the lifespan, from children to adults, and have experience supporting a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, neurodivergent presentations, personality disorders, relationship dysfunction, and disruptive behavioral patterns. Whether you are seeking individual, family, or couples counseling, I offer a holistic, trauma-informed approach, often integrating mindfulness-based practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, neurobiological insights, eclectic psychodynamic methods, music therapy, and other approaches as needed.
 
Healing is not a linear process, but a sacred unfolding of the self. If you find yourself caught in cycles of suffering or yearning for a deeper sense of connection, peace, and vitality, I would be honored to accompany you on your path toward renewal. Reach out today to begin your healing journey.
 
Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy making music, working out, meditating, spending time in nature, and doing fun activities with my son. I also value rest and play, sometimes simply relaxing with a good video game or show to recharge and reconnect with joy.

Harlie Lutz, LSW

I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Stockton University and I am currently a Licensed Social Worker. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples experiencing a wide range of challenges including behavioral challenges, trauma, grief, and divorce as well as anxiety and depression, social and family changes, and emotion regulation. I am dedicated to helping people feel understood, supported, and empowered. My work is centered on creating a safe and engaging environment where you can freely express through play, creativity, or conversation. I believe we all carry unique strengths to help us through challenging times and my role is to empower individuals to access those strengths and see their full potential. 
 
With a compassionate approach, I integrate evidence-based practices to tailor treatment for each individual’s unique needs and strengths. I encourage family-centered support so growth can continue beyond the therapy room. My goal is to not just help individuals overcome obstacles, but to help them build confidence in themselves to continue to grow. I am honored to be part of each journey and committed to providing a space where your story is heard and valued. 
 
Outside of the office, you can find me spending time at the beach, reading books, going to concerts, spending time with my family and friends, and watching football, soccer, baseball, and hockey games throughout the week.

Tatiana Negron - Office Manager

My name is Tatiana Negron and I am the office/billing manager for Self Elements Psychotherapy & Wellness. I have over ten years of experience and expertise in all aspects of mental health billing. My main goals are to help the practice run smoothly and efficiently as well as provide assistance to clients regarding insurance or billing questions. In my spare time, I love traveling to the Caribbean and spending time with my dog, Apollo.