Meet Our Staff
Clinical Staff
Our team is committed and dedicated to helping you or your child or teen overcome Selective Mutism.
President and Founder
Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum (“Dr. E”) is the President and Director of the Selective Mutism Anxiety & Related Disorders and Treatment Center (SMart Center) located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She is the founder of the intensive group treatment program, CommuniCamp™. She is President of the Selective Mutism Research Institute (SMRI), which is a foundation started to study her theories and treatment methodologies on Selective Mutism. Dr. E is the Founder & Director Emeritus of the Selective Mutism Association (SMA).
Dr. Shipon-Blum has developed the evidenced-based therapy, Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® or (S-CAT)® from her years evaluating, treating & researching individuals with Selective Mutism.
Dr. Shipon-Blum has her own podcast, Unspoken Words, where she shares her 30+ years of experience.
In addition, Dr E has written numerous articles, books, webinars on Selective Mutism. Vist our resource page.
Dr. Shipon-Blum has treated countless children from around the world, lectures throughout the country on the topic of Selective Mutism, performs school evaluations and trainings for treating professionals, educators & parents and is considered one of the world’s leading experts in the treatment and understanding of Selective Mutism.
Dr. E has been a featured expert within the media. She has appeared in national television shows such as 20/20, CNN, Inside Edition, Good Morning America as well as other local/national and international TV and Radio broadcasts. She has been featured in TIME Magazine, People Magazine and has interviewed with newspapers such as the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Boston Globe, San Diego Tribune, Philadelphia Inquirer, Palm Beach Post and other media publications throughout the world. Dr. Shipon-Blum prides herself on being “down to earth.” She resides with her family in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Socializing with friends and family
- Favorite Pet: Dog
- Favorite Emoji: 🥰
- Favorite Season: Spring because of the longer days, cooler weather, and opportunities to enjoy OUTSIDE
- Favorite Quote related to Selective Mutism: “Courage isn’t Loud”
- Best career advice: “Go in the direction of your passion and interests. Success is not linear; it takes grit and determination. When you ‘fall’ get back up and keep going. Never ever think that you can’t…..because you CAN!”
- “I hope to help children, teens, and adults find their voices! To change a life for the positive!”
Director & Lead Clinical Psychologist
Jenna Blum, PsyD, is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and serves as the Lead Clinical Psychologist and Director of both the SMart Center (Selective Mutism Anxiety & Related Disorders Treatment Center) and Counseling & Assessments @ the SMart Center. She has worked with the SMart Center for over 10 years and plays an integral role in the assessment, treatment, training, and support of children, teens, and adults with Selective Mutism, anxiety disorders, neurodivergence, and related social communication challenges.
Dr. Jenna specializes in working with children, teens and adults with Selective Mutism, anxiety, depression, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, learning differences, and related social communication difficulties. She is highly experienced in conducting comprehensive psychological and developmental evaluations, including full psychological testing batteries, ADHD evaluations, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments, and diagnostic clarification for complex and overlapping presentations. She is certified in the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2).
In addition to overseeing Counseling & Assessments @ the SMart Center, Dr. Jenna serves as the Supervisor and Director of CommuniCamp™ Counselors. She co-leads the SMart Center’s intensive parent education and support sessions during CommuniCamp™, the SMart Center’s highly regarded intensive treatment and parent training program for children and teens with Selective Mutism and social communication anxiety. She also works directly with campers throughout the program and co-created Virtual CommuniCamp™, modeled after the SMart Center’s in-person intensive treatment experience.
Dr. Jenna regularly presents at professional conferences and educational trainings on topics related to Selective Mutism, anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, social communication challenges, assessment, school accommodations, and evidence-based treatment approaches. She is passionate about helping professionals, educators, and families better understand the complex factors that contribute to social communication and emotional challenges.
Her therapeutic approach is individualized, collaborative, and compassionate. While her academic training is grounded in Psychodynamic Therapy and Family Systems approaches, she also incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual and family’s needs. She is also experienced in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and certified in the Trauma Recovery Empowerment Model (TREM).
Dr. Jenna is dedicated to helping individuals and families better understand the “WHYs” behind social communication and emotional challenges while empowering them with practical strategies and supports for meaningful growth, independence, and long-term success.
Learn more about Dr. Jenna in the Unspoken Words podcast episode: “Introducing Jenna Blum, PsyD!”
- Current Favorite Hobby: Hanging out with friends and family, reading, and working out
- Favorite Pet: Dog
- Favorite Emoji: ❤️
- Favorite Season: Fall because it is a very festive time of the year and she loves being cozy
- Best Career Advice: “Reach for the stars and keep going until you are at the highest pinnacle. You should be a horse with blinders and ignore all the negative commentary along the way.”
- “I hope to help individuals and families reach their full potential and to supervise doctoral and master level clinicians so that they positively impact the individuals and families they work with.”
Director of Clinical Training
Dr. William La Valle earned an MA in Psychology from West Chester University, and an MS and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is a licensed clinical psychologist in Pennsylvania.
Dr. La Valle works as the Director of Clinical Training at the SMart center and SMRI. He is also the Director or Clinical Training and Psychological Services at Intercommunity Action, Inc., a non-profit community mental health agency in Philadelphia. Dr. La Valle oversees the doctoral internship/externship and Master’s training programs. He also oversees the assessment/testing department to conduct Autism assessments (using the ADOS-2), ADHD evaluation, and full-battery psycho-educational assessments. He also supervises and conducts assessments for school-aged children and teenagers to help provide diagnostic clarity and determine medical necessarily of treatment services. His specialties include assessing and treating Autism Spectrum Disorder & ADHD, CBT for anxiety/depression, and trauma- focused interventions. He is formally trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Motivational interviewing.
Dr. La Valle also teaches in the clinical psychology doctoral program at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine as well as in the Master’ s psychology program at Southern New Hampshire University. Dr. La Valle serves on multiple mental health boards in the tri-state area and regularly conducts presentations, advocating for the psychology profession. He has been the receipt of PCOM’s Provost Award and APA’s Honorable Mention for Early Career Psychologist.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Coaching youth travel soccer
- Favorite Pet: Dog
- Favorite Emoji: 😂
- Favorite Season: Summer because his family LOVES the beach
- Best Career Advice: “Embrace every opportunity and experience. You will get out what you put in. Most importantly, make sure you are doing what you love!”
- “I hope to continue teaching and supervising students so that they can practice independently and autonomously.”
Lead Clinical Counselor & School Consultant
Jennifer Brittingham is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who completed her Masters degree in the Clinical Counseling Psychology Program at Arcadia University. Jennifer has been a team member of the SMart Center for 20 years. She conducts S-CAT® Program evaluations and treatment to families, S-CAT® Parent coaching and training sessions to families across the country and abroad. She provides school consultation and training to school districts and other organizations both on-site and via web workshops. Jen is a lead clinician and speaker during all-day parent education at CommuniCamp.
Jennifer graduated from Arcadia University with her M.A. in Clinical Counseling Psychology in 2008 and was a Pennsylvania Counseling Association Graduate Leader from 2007 to 2008. Prior to her work at the SMart Center, Jennifer has worked as a case manager for children with intellectual disabilities, elementary school special education resource assistant, and as both a college counselor, as well as a college drug and alcohol counselor and support group leader.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Being outdoors at the beach, riding bikes, & walking with her family and dog
- Favorite Pet: Dog
- Favorite Emoji: 🤩
- Favorite Season: Summer because of beach and pool weather!
- Best career advice: “Be intentional to find balance. This doesn’t mean balance will look the same all of the time. Sometimes you will work harder & longer at times in your life, but that is not sustainable in the long term. Be willing to pause and know when those times are necessary and be intentional to pull back when needed. There are many seasons of life. Be willing to be flexible in how you create balance within each season.”
- “My desire is to help families, individuals, and schools to feel hopeful and feel less ‘stuck’. Change can be overwhelming and I want to journey alongside others to help reduce that feeling and give them tangible strategies that bring about change!”
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Francisco Muñoz, M.A., is a master-level clinician at the SMart Center and a doctoral candidate in the Clinical Psychology Psy.D. program at La Salle University, with a concentration in Child Clinical Psychology. Francisco has trained in a range of pediatric medical and mental health settings, including the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Nemours Children’s Health. He has experience treating a variety of concerns such as anxiety, OCD, ARFID, ADHD, and Tic Disorders using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ERP, and behavioral interventions. His clinical and research interests center on pediatric anxiety, health psychology, and integrated models of care, with a dissertation focused on long-term outcomes in adults with a history of Selective Mutism.
His approach to therapy is collaborative and supportive, blending structured interventions with warmth and flexibility. Francisco emphasizes caregiver involvement and focuses on building trust through predictable routines, play, and sensitivity to each child’s emotional pace. He values empathy, curiosity, and honoring each child’s unique experience.
At the SMart Center, Francisco consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, he performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. Francisco leads support and treatment groups, such as, CommuniCamp™.
Outside of his clinical work, Francisco enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, and playing video games. A guiding motto in his work is, “Get comfortable being uncomfortable,” a mindset that aligns closely with his work in exposure-based therapy. If he could choose any superpower when working with kids, Francisco would choose the ability to instantly understand what a child is feeling—especially when they struggle to express it. So much of our work involves decoding behaviors to get at the emotion underneath. Being able to tune into that internal experience right away would help build trust faster and make treatment more effective from the start
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Natalie Weaver, M.S., is a fourth-year doctoral student at Chestnut Hill College in the clinical Psy.D. program. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Psychology at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia and her Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Leadership Studies at Widener University. Natalie has worked as a co-lead counselor at multiple CommuniCamp programs at the SMart Center over the past two years.
Natalie has experience working in a variety of clinical settings. She has worked in various clinical outpatient and community mental health settings. She has worked with diverse populations with a range of presenting problems and diagnoses, such as trauma, mood disorders, addiction, personality disorders, and more. She believes that the first step in therapy involves fostering a nonjudgmental, safe space for individuals to share and process their thoughts and feelings, to help foster the perfect environment for growth. She believes in meeting each person where they are at and working at a pace that is unique to each individual. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her multiple pets, rescuing animals, boxing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
At the SMart Center, Natalie consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, she performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. Natalie leads support and treatment groups, such as, CommuniCamp™.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Traveling and spending time with her family and 13 pets
- Favorite Pet: Loves all animals
- Favorite Emoji: 🥺
- Favorite Season: Fall and winter because of the leaves changing and the weather
- Best career advice: “Surround yourself with people who support you and believe in you, but also believe in yourself.”
- “I hope to grow as a clinician, while also helping my clients grow. I hope to expand my skills while utilizing the skills to then help my clients. My ultimate goal is to help people. I am interested in therapy services, assessment services, and also the research side of everything. I hope to be able to help increase my clients comfort in the room to then help further increase their comfort in communication.”
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Victoria Stavropoulos, B.S. is currently a doctoral student at La Salle University’s Psy.D. Program with a concentration in Clinical Child Psychology. Prior to graduate school, she received a B.S. at Drexel University in 2022, where she majored in Psychological and Brain Sciences and minored in Fine Arts.
Victoria has experience working with children, adolescents, and their families in both research and clinical settings. She participated in the Incredible Years Program, where she fostered children’s emotional, behavioral, and social skills development at an elementary school through classroom activities and fun puppet skits. Victoria also has experience working with children, adults, and families as a clinic coordinator at Drexel Psychological Services Center and the Drexel University Individual, Couple, and Family Therapy (DUCFT) Clinic.
Victoria believes that mental health services should be accessible to everyone. She is passionate about providing a safe space and holistic approach in therapy to promote healing and growth. At the SMart Center, Victoria consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, she performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. Victoria leads support and treatment groups, such as, CommuniCamp™.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Playing video games, reading, running, painting, watching tv, and snuggling with her cats
- Favorite Pet: Dogs & cats
- Favorite Emoji: 🦔
- Favorite Season: Fall because of Halloween and changing leaves
- Best career advice: “Look out the other’s window. Try to see the world as your patient sees it.”
- “I hope to learn from my clients and watch them grow :)”
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Maya Bauer, M.A. is pursuing her doctoral degree in La Salle University’s Psy.D. program. She has a Bachelor of Science in developmental psychology with a minor in psychology and family therapy from the University of Minnesota. She holds a Master’s in social work from the University of Chicago. Maya has worked with children and adolescents of different ages, providing therapy to individuals, groups, and families in various settings, from inpatient to outpatient. She has worked with children and adolescents with diverse diagnoses, including anxiety, mood, and trauma disorders.
Maya’s research interests include peripartum mental health and well-being, parent-child interaction behaviors, and the impact of these interactions on the well-being and functioning of the child and their caregiver. Her clinical interests include working with children and adolescents diagnosed with selective mutism, anxiety, and trauma & stressor-related disorders. She is also passionate about working alongside parents and caregivers to support their children in the best way possible.
At the SMart Center, Maya consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, she performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. Maya leads support and treatment groups, such as, CommuniCamp™.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Spending time outside, journaling, and exploring new coffee shops in the city
- Favorite Pet: Dogs and cats
- Favorite Emoji: 😎
- Favorite Season: Fall because of the weather, wearing her favorite sweaters, going apple picking with friends, and enjoying pumpkin baked goods
- Best career advice: “Foster your curiosity and embrace lifelong learning! Each day can lead to new understandings and discoveries. Curiosity can lead you to your passions and help you continuously expand your knowledge and skills.”
- “I aim to empower individuals and families affected by selective mutism and other mental health conditions by providing them with the tools and strategies necessary to live to their fullest potential, enabling them to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. I also hope to raise awareness in the community and advocate for a better understanding of selective mutism.”
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Ilana Weinstein, B.A. is a Clinical Psychology Psy.D. student at La Salle University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University at Albany. Ilana has gained valuable experience working with children, adolescents, and their families from diverse backgrounds. The individuals she has worked with have had various diagnoses, such as anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Moreover, Ilana has provided an array of treatment modalities which have occurred in a multitude of settings, including schools, homes, and private practices.
Her clinical interests lie in the evaluation and treatment of pediatric mental health disorders and developmental conditions. Ilana is especially passionate about early intervention programs and individualized care. At the SMart Center, Ilana consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, she performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. Ilana leads support and treatment groups, such as, CommuniCamp™.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Journaling, listening to music, building LEGO, watching Disney movies, and playing with dogs
- Favorite Pet: Loves all animals
- Favorite Emoji: 🧸
- Favorite Season: Winter because of the fun activities like tubing and building snowmen
- Best career advice: “Once you find a job you love, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”
- “During my career in the mental health/selective mutism space, I hope to create a safe space for individuals who are struggling. I want my clients to feel comfortable and supported during their journey. I also desire to help my clients feel motivated and optimistic about their futures.”
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Olivia Keyte, M.S., is a doctoral trainee at the SMart Center and a Psy.D. student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biobehavioral Health from Pennsylvania State University and her Master of Science degree from PCOM.
Olivia brings experience working in a variety of school-based settings through her work with the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU). She has supported children and adolescents in autistic support, multiple disabilities support (MDS), life skills, developmental delay, and partial hospitalization program (PHP) classrooms. These experiences have strengthened her passion for supporting children with diverse developmental, behavioral, and emotional needs.
At the SMart Center, Olivia consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Olivia performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™ and our 6-Week, Virtual Social Skills Series.
Outside of her clinical work, Olivia enjoys reading, Pilates and sculpt classes, and spending time with her golden retriever, Nash. Her favorite season is fall because of the weather, fashion, and seasonal food and drinks. A favorite quote of hers is, "It's the oldest story in the world. One day you're 17 and planning for someday, and then quietly, without you ever really noticing, someday is today." — One Tree Hill.
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Sarah Krogh, M.S., is a doctoral trainee at the SMart Center and a Psy.D. student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Central Florida and is pursuing advanced training in psychological assessment and child-focused care.
Sarah brings experience working with children and adolescents in both educational and clinical settings. She previously worked as an instructional assistant supporting children with autism and other developmental disabilities at an elementary school. She has also completed psychoeducational evaluations as a school psychology practicum student in Philadelphia charter schools, working with students from diverse backgrounds and learning needs.
At the SMart Center, Sarah consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Sarah performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™ and our 6-Week, Virtual Social Skills Series.
Outside of her clinical work, Sarah enjoys cooking, hiking, and caring for her growing collection of houseplants. She especially loves spending time with her two cats, Smudge and Moose. Fall is her favorite season because of the cool weather, apple picking, sweaters, and colorful leaves. A favorite quote that guides her perspective is, “It is what it is, but it will be what you make it.” — Pat Summitt
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Omnia Faek, M.Ed., is a clinician at the SMart Center with specialized training in School Psychology and trauma-informed care. She earned her Ph.D. from Lehigh University and brings experience supporting children and families across clinical, school, and community-based settings.
Omnia has worked in a variety of mental health settings providing group CBT and social skills interventions for children with autism, consultation services for families of young children ages 2–6, and counseling support within a school specializing in autism and emotional disturbance. Her background has strengthened her passion for helping children build emotional, social, and behavioral skills in supportive and individualized ways.
At the SMart Center, Omnia consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Omnia performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™ and our 6-Week, Virtual Social Skills Series.
Outside of her clinical work, Omnia enjoys solving puzzles and cooking or baking. Spring is her favorite season, and a quote that guides her approach to life and work is, "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Alexandra Collins, M.S., is a doctoral trainee at the SMart Center and a Psy.D. student in School Psychology at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she earned her Master of Science degree. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Temple University and has developed a strong interest in supporting children with social, emotional, and developmental needs.
Alexandra brings experience working with children and adolescents across school and clinical settings. Her background includes years of supporting children with Selective Mutism and related conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety. She has also completed comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations in K–8 schools within the School District of Philadelphia, served as a mentor for at-risk youth in the Pittsburgh School District, and will be completing developmental assessments through the NICU follow-up clinic at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children.
At the SMart Center, Alexandra consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Alexandra performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™.
Outside of her clinical work, Alexandra enjoys trying new restaurants and spending time outdoors. Fall is her favorite season, and a quote that inspires her is, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." — Dr. Seuss
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Giuliana Vallecorsa, M.S., is a doctoral trainee at the SMart Center and a student in the Clinical Psychology doctoral program at La Salle University. She earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in Neuroscience from Temple University and is passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan.
Giuliana's previous clinical experience includes working with older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Her background in neuroscience and mental health has strengthened her interest in understanding behavior, cognition, and emotional well-being through a compassionate and evidence-based lens.
At the SMart Center, Giuliana consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Giuliana performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™ and our 6-Week, Virtual Social Skills Series.
Outside of her clinical work, Giuliana enjoys going on long walks, reading, and spending time with her puppy, Luca, a chiweenie. She especially loves fall activities like apple picking, pumpkin picking, and baking sweet treats. One of her favorite quotes is, "You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." — Marcus Aurelius
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Dzifa Awudi, M.Ed., is a clinician at the SMart Center with training in School Psychology. She earned her Master of Education in School Psychology from Temple University and brings experience supporting individuals across hospital, outpatient, and school-based settings.
Dzifa has experience using CBT-based counseling techniques with clients facing a variety of emotional and behavioral challenges. Her background working in diverse clinical environments has strengthened her ability to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's needs.
At the SMart Center, Dzifa consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Dzifa performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™ and our 6-Week, Virtual Social Skills Series.
Outside of her clinical work, Dzifa enjoys walking and spending time with cats. Spring is her favorite season, and a quote that inspires her is, "It always seems impossible until it's done." — Nelson Mandela
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Beverly Kirby, M.S., is a doctoral trainee at the SMart Center and a current Ph.D. student at Temple University. She earned her undergraduate degree from Rutgers University and her master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University.
Beverly is passionate about supporting children and families through compassionate, evidence-based care. At the SMart Center, she consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Beverly performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™ and our 6-Week, Virtual Social Skills Series.
Through her doctoral training and academic background, Beverly continues to deepen her understanding of child and adolescent mental health while developing skills in assessment, intervention, and family-centered care.
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Zoë Schneider, B.S., is a doctoral trainee at the SMart Center and a Psy.D. student in Clinical Psychology at La Salle University. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ohio University in 2023 and is passionate about supporting children and families through compassionate, evidence-based care.
Zoë's clinical and research experience spans a variety of medical, educational, and mental health settings. Prior to beginning her doctoral training, she worked as an interventionist for a clinical research study focused on couples' coping strategies for managing Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. She also contributed to research examining eating- and weight-related behaviors in young adult and adult populations. In addition, Zoë has supported children and families through preschool teaching roles, community mental health settings, and volunteer work in a Level IV NICU, where she assisted critically ill and premature infants with comfort and sensory regulation.
At the SMart Center, Zoë consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Zoë performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™ and our 6-Week, Virtual Social Skills Series.
Clinician / Doctoral Trainee
Ellie Whiting, B.S., is a doctoral trainee at the SMart Center and a Psy.D. student at the Widener University Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a concentration in counseling from Gordon College and is passionate about helping children and adolescents build confidence, resilience, and coping skills.
Ellie's clinical experience has primarily been in school-based behavioral health settings, where she worked alongside a neuropsychologist and school counselors supporting students from elementary through high school. She has experience observing and assisting with neuropsychological assessments, helping translate evaluation results into meaningful school-based supports, and facilitating small-group social-emotional lessons using CBT-based coping strategies. She has also provided individual support to students experiencing anxiety, social challenges, and behavioral concerns.
At the SMart Center, Ellie consults with families and treats individuals with Selective Mutism and an array of mental health disorders. In addition, Ellie performs testing/assessments, including Full Psychological Batteries, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder testing. She also leads support and treatment groups, including CommuniCamp™ and our 6-Week, Virtual Social Skills Series.
Outside of her clinical work, Ellie enjoys weightlifting, pickleball, basketball, soccer, painting, drawing, and knitting. She is also a proud dog lover and has five Irish Wolfhounds in her family. Fall is her favorite season because of the crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy foods. A favorite quote that inspires her is, "You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." — Winnie the Pooh
Administrative Staff
Lead Clinical Care Coordinator / Office Manager
Laura Bansemer is a valuable member of the SMart Center Support and the Selective Mutism Research Institute (SMRI) Team. Laura earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Muhlenberg College graduating magna cum laude and phi beta kappa. With over 10 years of customer service experience, Laura was previously a weight loss counselor and then a call center director.
Her favorite hobbies outside of work include walking her dogs, Bonnie and Percy, and puzzling! Laura loves dogs and prefers fall because of the cooler weather and leaves changing color. The best career advice she’s received is “People don’t leave companies. They leave people. How you treat those you work with and how you interact with clients makes a big difference.” Laura hopes to make things a little easier/brighter for someone else especially when they are dealing with something challenging even if it’s through a brief interaction.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Walking her dogs, Bonnie and Percy, and puzzling
- Favorite Pet: Dog
- Favorite Emoji: 😍
- Favorite Season: Fall because of cooler weather and the leaves changing
- Best career advice: “People don’t leave companies. They leave people. How you treat those you work with and how you interact with clients makes a big difference.”
- “If I can make things a little easier/brighter for someone else especially when they are dealing with something challenging even if it’s through a brief interaction that’s my goal.”
CommuniCamp Director / Clinical Care Coordinator
LisaMarie Vargas was born and raised in Morristown, NJ and is the daughter of Guatemalan immigrants. She is a first-generation college graduate with a bachelor in science from Temple University. After graduating, she fell into, and fell in love with, a career in marketing and events. She is a seasoned event professional who brings her experience from various industries, including, but not limited, to sports, food, and tourism, to the SMart Center. LisaMarie has worked with popular public figures such as Serena Williams, Mike Tyson, Snoop Dogg, Allen Iverson, Chef Marcus Samuelsson, Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, and many others. She is a pro at creating unique events that leave a lasting impression by combining new trends and unmatched hospitality. At the SMart Center, you will find LisaMarie organizing CommuniCamp plans, building out other SMart Center events, and heading up marketing and social media efforts.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Eating tacos and drinking margaritas, yoga, and arts & culture
- Favorite Pet: Dog
- Favorite Emoji: 🫠
- Favorite Season: Summer because of beach weather
- Best career advice: “Stop apologizing”
- “I hope to make impactful experiences for our families.”
Marketing Consultant
Brandon Blum was born and raised in Abington, PA. After graduating from Temple University, he spent six all-encompassing years inside the digital marketing wings of three prodigiously large media companies. His day-to-day consisted of project managing key corporate client relationships; relentlessly writing, pitching, ideating & launching six-figure multi-channel advertising campaigns; and learning how brands – large and small – tell their stories. In other words, communication is his area of expertise. In addition to his marketing consulting work, Brandon is the co-founder of For Others, a clothing label that gives back to the local communities their items are purchased in or purchased for. Brandon currently lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Marketing Coordinator / Clinical Care Coordinator
Dakota Hornak was born and raised in Willow Grove, PA. They graduated from Susquehanna University in May of 2022 with a BA in communications and psychology and have done work in marketing and sales for over ten years. They have wanted to work in mental health and non-profit organizations since beginning college and has been a freelance designer and marketer since their freshman year. As a hobby, Dakota began art and graphic design as well as writing, which then became their passion and what they wanted in a career. They are now the marketing coordinator for the SMart Center.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Creating new art projects, watching movies, and going hiking or kayaking with their partner and dog
- Favorite Pet: Loves all animals
- Favorite Emoji: 🤠
- Favorite Season: Fall because of Halloween and getting to spend time outside while the leaves change
- Best Career Advice: “Put your time and energy into that field and the cause you are passionate about and believe in wholeheartedly.”
- “I hope to help families struggling with mental health challenges and create valuable resources about selective mutism and mental health overall for people across the globe who need access to resources they otherwise may not have.”
Clinical Care Coordinator
A graduate of DeSales University, Mary Kate had previously worked as an Executive Assistant and Meetings Coordinator at the Philadelphia Bar Association. After taking a leave while her children were very young, Mary Kate returned to the workforce in 2016 and worked as a church secretary before joining the SMart Center at the Clinical Care Coordinator. She is thrilled to be with the SMart Center, and is gratified to be helping our SMart families get the help that they need. Mary Kate lives in Jenkintown with her husband, three children and two dogs. She is an avid reader, a wannabe foodie, and an enthusiastic fan of Philadelphia’s sports teams.
- Current Favorite Hobby: Reading
- Favorite Pet: Dog
- Favorite Emoji: 😍
- Favorite Season: Autumn, because it feels like a new beginning
- Best career advice: “Believe in your own abilities”
- “I want to ease the burden of the administrative work so that our clinicians can help our families.”
Retired SMart Center Therapy Dogs: Our Mascots & Best Friends
Therapy Pug
Mr. B was Dr. E’s first therapy dog. He accompanied Dr. E to various conferences and SM retreats and has touched the lives of our families for 14+ years! It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of this beloved ‘O.G.’ pug. He played an instrumental role in the lives of so many families affected by Selective Mutism. He was known to knock on the doors (with his paw!) when he wanted to join a session. He would either sit on a child/teens lap ‘n snuggle or sit by their feet. He instinctively knew who was comfortable and who needed more TLC. Mr. B was a true blessing to so many children who have suffered in silence.
Therapy Pug
Lil’ Girl (pictured left) or “SMall Lady of Love” joined the SMart Center team in 2014. She’s small and cuddly, and our families adored her! She often disguised herself as a stuffed animal to help kids (and parents) who may be afraid to realize she’s just like a stuffed animal but can move around and play!
Lil’ Girl once attended CommuniCamp™ and went from classroom to classroom helping children/teens feel comfortable. She has now retired as a therapy dog for the center.
Therapy Dog
Bonnie is a lovable, happy, blonde bombshell who loves to go for walks! Our patients (and staff) love to play with her. When she joined the staff, she would say “Hi” to every family and made sure to greet each staff member every morning. She has now retired as the SMart Center’s therapy dog.
Get Started:
Phone:
Email:
Address
