New Outlook Counseling Staff

Charlie Coretto is a passionate and skilled Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, currently serving as the Director of the Mental Health Counseling Program. With a strong commitment to assisting individuals and families facing mental health challenges, Charlie has established himself as a respected leader in his profession.

Charlie began his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Fordham University, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Connecticut. After obtaining his LCSW licensure, Charlie embarked on a fulfilling career, working with diverse populations and addressing a wide range of mental health issues.

Throughout his career, Charlie has gained invaluable experience in areas such as crisis intervention, family therapy, and substance abuse counseling. His deep understanding of mental health complexities has allowed him to create innovative and effective treatment approaches tailored to the unique needs of his clients.

As the Director of the Mental Health Counseling Program, Charlie leads a dedicated team of mental health professionals, offering supervision, guidance, and support to ensure the delivery of exceptional care to those in need. Under his leadership, the program has grown and broadened its range of services, positively impacting countless individuals and families in the community.

Charlie is an active member of various professional organizations, contributing his expertise to the development of best practices and advocacy for policies that promote mental health awareness and access to care. As a recognized expert in his field, he regularly speaks at conferences and workshops, sharing his insights and inspiring others to join the cause.

Outside of his professional life, Charlie is an enthusiastic traveler and nature lover, finding inspiration and tranquility in the great outdoors.

Charlie Coretto’s unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy, along with his extensive experience and empathetic approach, make him an invaluable leader in the field of mental health counseling.

Mona Daye is a compassionate and skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience providing high-quality mental health care. She is dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental well-being and achieve a balanced life.

Mona earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from University of Illinois at Chicago and went on to complete her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from University of Illinois at Chicago, specializing in psychiatric-mental health. She is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and an active American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) member.

Throughout her career, Mona has worked in diverse clinical settings, such as inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient mental health clinics, and private practice. Her extensive experience has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to effectively treat various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

At Catholic Charities of Fairfield County’s Behavioral Health Program, Mona provides comprehensive medication management services, working closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their needs. She values a holistic approach to mental health care and collaborates with the multidisciplinary team to ensure clients receive the appropriate support for their minds, body, and spirit.

Mona is dedicated to staying current with the latest research and best practices in psychopharmacology to provide the most effective treatment options for her clients. In addition, she strongly advocates mental health awareness and is committed to reducing stigma and increasing access to care within her community.

In her free time, Mona enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors, and practicing mindfulness meditation. She is passionate about promoting self-care and encourages her clients to prioritize their mental and emotional well-being as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Judith Delaugere is a warm, empathetic, and supportive Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) committed to providing high-quality mental health care. Fluent in both French and English, Judith is skilled at working with diverse clients, including children, teens, adults, and families.

Judith earned her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University and did undergraduate work to earn her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Columbia University. She is a proud member of the Sigma Alpha Pi and Phi Theta Kappa honor societies, reflecting her dedication to academic excellence and professional development.

With a person-centered approach, Judith creates a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, gain self-awareness, and work towards positive change. She has experience treating various mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, and everyday stressors.

Before joining Catholic Charities of Fairfield County’s Behavioral Health Program, Judith was a part of Life Bridge Community Services, where she provided support in the Community Closet. She has also been actively engaged with the Fairfield County OCD Support Group since 2015.

Judith understands the importance of establishing a solid therapeutic alliance and employs evidence-based interventions tailored to the unique needs of her clients. She is dedicated to helping clients develop coping skills, resilience, and self-compassion to navigate life’s challenges and improve their well-being.

In her personal life, Judith is a mother of four and enjoys spending quality time with her family and pets. In addition, she is an avid traveler and enjoys crafting and exploring new cultures in her spare time.

Allison Franz, LMSW, is our newest clinician specializing in behavioral health services at Catholic Charities of Fairfield County. With a strong educational background and extensive experience in the field, Allison is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges.

Allison earned her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Western Connecticut State University in May 2013. Recognizing her passion for helping others, she pursued further education and obtained a Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University in May 2018. This advanced training equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of clinical practices and interventions.

Throughout her career, Allison has actively contributed to various nonprofits within the DMHAS service system since 2013. Her work primarily focused on assisting individuals with chronic mental illnesses in achieving their personal goals, whether related to vocational pursuits, housing stability, or other crucial aspects of their lives. She possesses a diverse background in working with individuals of all ages, including adults, adolescents, and children, which has enriched her clinical expertise.

With her compassionate approach and professional competence, Allison has provided invaluable support to clients in Danbury and beyond. Her commitment to mental health advocacy is evident in her ongoing efforts to raise awareness about mental illness and promote the importance of comprehensive care.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Allison finds solace and inspiration in nature. Spending time outdoors and nurturing her garden allow her to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance. She also cherishes quality time with her loved ones, recognizing the significance of family support in her personal and professional journey.

Allison’s unwavering dedication to her clients, combined with her extensive experience and passion for mental health advocacy, make her an indispensable asset to the behavioral health team at Catholic Charities of Fairfield County.

Vanessa M. Hernandez Gomez is a dedicated and compassionate bilingual Clinical Social Worker committed to helping individuals and families overcome life’s challenges. Fluent in Spanish and English, Vanessa is skilled in working with diverse populations, addressing various mental health issues, and providing culturally sensitive care.

Vanessa earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Western Connecticut State University in 2012. She completed her Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University’s Graduate School of Social Service in 2018. Her concentration was in Clinical Social Work and Community-based Practice & Leadership. She is a proud Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society member, highlighting her commitment to academic and professional excellence.

Before joining Catholic Charities of Fairfield County’s Behavioral Health Program, Vanessa worked as a Clinical Supervisor at HELP USA Homeless Prevention Network in the Bronx, New York. In this role, she supported individuals and families facing housing crises and helped them access permanent, transitional, and homeless prevention services.

As a clinician at Catholic Charities, Vanessa offers short and long-term psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, and she tailors her interventions to meet her client’s unique needs and goals. Vanessa’s warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental manner creates a safe environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, develop new coping strategies, and foster personal growth.

In her spare time, Vanessa enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her loved ones. She is passionate about social justice and community engagement and is dedicated to positively impacting the lives of her clients and their families.

Yvonne Mora is a passionate and dedicated bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Professional Counselor Associate who works with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds to help them navigate life’s challenges. She is particularly interested in supporting adolescents and adults as they explore personal, family, and peer-related issues.

Yvonne earned her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Western Connecticut State University. Before joining Catholic Charities of Fairfield County’s Behavioral Health Program, she was a counselor at St. Peter School. She created a safe and supportive environment for students to express their needs, struggles, frustrations, and successes.

Yvonne’s therapeutic approach is person-centered, and she emphasizes the importance of building a strong, trusting relationship with her clients. She is skilled in utilizing evidence-based practices and tailors her interventions to each client’s unique needs and goals. Yvonne’s warmth, empathy, and non-judgmental manner provide a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences and to develop the skills and resilience necessary to overcome obstacles and foster personal growth.

In her free time, Yvonne enjoys traveling, engaging in creative pursuits, and spending time with her family and friends. She is committed to empowering her clients and helping them to create meaningful, positive change in their lives.

Charles Paternina, MFT, joins our dedicated team at Catholic Charities with a profound passion for therapy and a steadfast commitment to guiding individuals on their path to well-being.

Charles’s enduring dedication has shaped him into an exceptional clinician. His Post-Graduate Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from Fairfield University, earned in August 2022, equips him with the expertise needed to provide exceptional therapeutic services.

Charles’s specialization in couples therapy stems from his deep fascination with the intricacies of marriage. However, he doesn’t limit himself to one demographic. His dedication extends to helping individuals of all ages navigate life’s transitions, from youths grieving and coping with parental loss to older generations seeking solace and closure.

In therapy, Charles’s authenticity shines through as he assists clients actively engaged in their healing journeys. He prefers to work with individuals and couples committed to making positive life changes. He values the opportunity to learn from his clients, drawing inspiration from their kindness and determination to embrace change.

As a versatile generalist in his career, Charles connects with a wide range of clients, reflecting his inclusive approach. Fluent in Spanish, thanks to his education in Spain, he offers culturally sensitive therapy.

With an open heart and an open mind, Charles is dedicated to serving and supporting everyone who seeks our services at Catholic Charities.

Charles is a devoted husband and father of five, cherishing quality time with his family. He’s also an avid traveler who enjoys crafting and exploring diverse cultures during his leisure time.

Kristine Paz is a highly skilled and compassionate clinician at Catholic Charities of Fairfield County’s Mental Health Counseling Program. With a strong background in social work and a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding mental health, Kristine is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals and families in need.

Kristine holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from Sacred Heart University, and throughout her career, she has honed her expertise in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care. This diverse skill set enables her to tailor her approach to each client’s unique needs, ensuring they receive the personalized care and attention they deserve.

In her role at Catholic Charities, Kristine works with clients of all ages, helping them navigate life’s challenges and develop the skills necessary to foster resilience, growth, and well-being. Her genuine empathy, attentive listening, and insightful guidance have made a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals and families across Fairfield County. Sacred Heart University recognized Kristine’s remarkable achievements in the Social Work field, awarding her for her unwavering commitment to social justice.

Kristine is passionate about destigmatizing mental health and promoting awareness and understanding of the importance of mental well-being. Her commitment to her clients and dedication to the Catholic Charities mission is truly inspiring, making her an invaluable member of our team.

At Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, we are proud to have Kristine Paz as part of our Mental Health Counseling Program. Her unwavering compassion and expertise continue to make a lasting impact on our community and the lives of those she serves.

Waleska Rosa is a dedicated and passionate bilingual (English and Spanish) social worker serving underserved populations for over a decade. Waleska joined the Catholic Charities team on August 29th, 2022, bringing her a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to helping those in need. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Lehman College in 2012 and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Fordham University-Graduate School of Social Service in 2018, with a concentration in Clinical Social Work & Community-based Practice & Leadership. Waleska is also a proud member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.

Before joining Catholic Charities, Waleska was part of the executive team at HELP USA, a national leader in homeless prevention services. In this role, she provided permanent, transitional, and homeless prevention services to underserved populations in New York City. After several years of working in homeless prevention, Waleska decided to transition to a role in therapy, where she could focus on directly impacting the lives of individuals and families.

As a Clinician at Catholic Charities of Fairfield County’s Behavioral Health Program, Waleska adopts a holistic approach to providing short and long-term psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults, and families. She is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment in which clients can explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and work toward personal growth and healing.

In her personal life, Waleska enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, exploring new places, and engaging in various community activities. Her passion for helping others and her commitment to social justice shine through in all aspects of her work, making her an invaluable asset to the Catholic Charities team.

Celeste Salka is a highly qualified mental health counselor based in Danbury, with many years of experience in the field. She completed her undergraduate studies in psychology at Western Connecticut State University. She has a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the same institution.

As a licensed professional counselor associate (LPCA), Celeste has completed extensive training and education to provide effective counseling services to individuals of all ages. With her in-depth understanding of the intricate relationship between the mind, body, and spirit, Celeste is equipped to help her clients overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. She is known for her compassionate and empathetic approach, which creates a safe and supportive environment for clients as they navigate difficult emotions and experiences.

Celeste offers a range of counseling services, including individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. She works with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures and is committed to creating a welcoming space for all who seek her help.

Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, Celeste is dedicated to helping you find the support and guidance you need to lead a fulfilling life.

Annie Sullivan is a dedicated clinician joining Catholic Charities of Fairfield County with a strong commitment to providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health services to individuals and families in need. With a diverse background and extensive experience, Annie is well-equipped to make a meaningful impact within the community.

Annie holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service, where she received comprehensive training and developed a deep understanding of clinical social work practices. She also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Justice and Law Administration from Western Connecticut State University, further enhancing their knowledge of the legal system and justice issues.

With a proven track record, Annie has honed her skills while working at reputable organizations. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker she has provided trauma-informed psychotherapy to adults with various mental health diagnoses. Annie is experienced in conducting thorough assessments, developing tailored treatment plans, and providing quality care. Annie also has experience delivering clinical services to high-risk youth and their families, as well as to domestic violence survivors.

With her extensive education and practical experience, Annie brings her skills and passion to Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, working alongside the dedicated team to provide compassionate care and promote holistic well-being for individuals and families in the community.