Today
09:00 am - 06:00 pm
FORTITUDE: Strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage.
Meet Our Mental Health Professionals
Your Well-Being Is Our Priority!
Meet the mental health professionals behind Fortitude Center in New Milford, CT.
We are a practice of amazing clinicians who have dedicated their lives in pursuit of delivering better, more compassionate mental health counseling services to those in need.
With us, you know you are in safe, dependable hands.
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Glendy Schweitzer, LADC, LPC, Owner
Glendy is originally from New Mexico but was raised in a military family, allowing her to live all over the United States and Germany. She obtained her undergraduate and Master's degrees from Western Connecticut State University. She started her career in the addiction field, working for six years in various treatment settings before establishing her own practice. Due to the significant demand for providing help and hope to those in need, she realized the necessity of expanding and hiring like-minded individuals who shared her passion for helping people change their lives. She has assembled a team at the Fortitude Center made up of educated and compassionate individuals who are equally dedicated to helping those seeking change, growth, and positivity in their lives. *Schedule Currently Full*Richard Dable, LADC, LPC, Clinical Director
Richard Dable is a native of Mukwonago, Wisconsin. He received his undergraduate degree in vocal performance and music therapy from Arizona State University. He later went on to complete his master’s degree in Community Counseling at Western Connecticut State University. Richard has worked in a variety of treatment settings, working with both adults and adolescents in a psychiatric hospital & outpatient setting, providing services for individuals with substance abuse and mental health co-occurring conditions. Prior to joining Fortitude Center, Richard worked as a Clinical Director at a local behavioral health substance abuse agency in Connecticut. In addition to his clinical work, his hobbies include playing the piano, singing, gardening, cooking and walking his two German Shepherds, Allegra and Apollo.
Rachel Gilbert, LPC
Rachel provides counseling to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Rachel especially has a passion for helping young adults and the adult population. She has experience providing LGBTQA+ support, those who identify with co-dependency, anxiety, OCD, and perfectionism. Rachel is trained in (CPT) Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma/PTSD and (I-CBT) Inference Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for OCD/anxiety. Her approach can be described as a strength-based approach and working collaboratively according to specific needs and goals. Rachel values honesty, empathy, humor and believe that finding the right counselor is essential to success in treatment.Catherine Harrington, LPC
Cat provides counseling to adolescents and adults in a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, disorganized eating habits, and self-esteem issues. She received her bachelor's degree in Psychology at Western Connecticut State University and her Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University. Cat is EMDR Certified, and uses evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She offers a holistic approach to healing, helping clients rewrite negative thought patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and acceptance. With a blend of empathy and expertise, Cat provides a safe and supportive space for clients to explore the roots of their struggles, learn practical skills for emotional regulation and distress tolerance, and embark on a transformative journey towards lasting recovery and resilience.
Shailee Edmonds, LADC, LPC
Shailee started her educational journey at Naugatuck Valley Community College where she received her associate degree in drug and alcohol recovery counseling. Shailee has always had a passion for helping others and wanted to have a better understanding of the brain and human behavior; she decided to further her education at Western Connecticut State University where she completed her undergraduate degree in psychology and her graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling. Shailee has utilized her counseling skills for close to a decade at an intensive inpatient substance abuse mental health facility, working with clients from diverse populations, ages 12 and up. She has extensive experience and a deep understanding of the affects of individuals struggling with substance abuse disorders. Shailee utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), as well as Music & Art Therapy when working with clients. Shailee highlights the importance of unbiased support and working together as a team to manage mental health and overall wellbeing.Kristen Benzinger, LPC
Kristen has a passion for animals and is heavily involved in animal rescue during her free time. She combined her passion for animals and therapy and has a therapy dog, Zoie, who hopes to join Kristen soon. Kristen enjoys working with diverse populations and ages but is passionate about ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and working with couples. Kristen is EMDR Certified , and she uses a strength-based approach to uplift people in order to feel better about themselves, and their challenges, as well as motivating them to make the necessary changes. Kristen is highly empathetic and values validating her client’s experiences and perceptions and especially finding the humor in life’s messes.
Deana May, LPC
Deana graduated from the University of St. Joseph in West Hartford, CT with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Deana has a passion for helping clients manage life’s ups and downs, helping them to develop agency, build self-confidence, and gain acceptance to move past obstacles toward creating the life they desire. She has experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety and mood disorders, substance use, relationship concerns, and trauma. She works with a diverse population and particularly enjoys working with adolescents and adults. Deana is EMDR Certified, and has been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She focuses on a holistic and eclectic approach drawing on Positive Psychology, Person-Centered, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapies to meet the needs of each client. In her spare time, Deana enjoys spending time in nature and creating art. She loves to incorporate creative approaches into counseling sessions whenever possible.Jourdan Duncan, LPC
Jourdan earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Connecticut State University in 2020. She has worked in outpatient settings including intensive outpatient program (IOP) treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and trauma. She has a passion for working with all ages and emphasizes the importance of client-centered care by using a strengths based approach. Jourdan is trained in MATCH-ADTC, used to work with children who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma or conduct as well as Triple P-Positive Parenting Program, used to work with individuals and families. Jourdan has a knack for making others feel heard, validated, and supported through any life challenges or transitions. She believes the most essential part to successful treatment is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Jourdan values honesty, empathy, and laugher. This shows through in her ability to be direct, nonjudgmental, and appropriately charming with a good sense of humor.
Karissa McLaughlin, LPC
Karissa graduated from Fairfield University with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, after first receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from University of Connecticut. She has experience in outpatient treatment of Substance Use Disorders as well as addressing concerns such as depression, trauma, and anxiety in adults. She has facilitated many IOP (intensive outpatient) and relapse prevention groups. Karissa uses a strengths-based approach to her client care, and believes in collaborating with her clients towards success. Karissa has a passion for supporting recovery through employment, and has experience guiding individuals with severe and chronic mental health diagnoses such as Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder towards gainful employment as part of their recovery journey, by utilizing career counseling principles. Karissa believes that the most important facet of treatment is the relationship between therapist and client with the goal of creating a nonjudgemental, safe space for clients to feel heard and validated.
Colin O'Connor, LPCA
Colin recently earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Saint Michael’s College in Vermont. He has experience working in residential, and community outpatient centers with children, adults, and elderly. Colin has a passion for helping individuals struggling with a variety of psychological challenges, such as: trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and grief. Using a client-centered humanistic approach, and techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, he strives to help clients reach their unique goals. Colin’s hope as a therapist is to help create a non-judgmental space, for clients to feel comfortable in exploring themselves.Ocean Miller, LPC-A
Ocean holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services with a concentration in Substance Abuse, both from Southern New Hampshire University. She brings experience from both residential and outpatient settings, where she has worked with individuals facing a range of mental health and substance use challenges. Ocean is passionate about supporting adults navigating issues such as trauma, addiction, mood and anxiety disorders, interpersonal difficulties, self-esteem concerns, and relationship challenges. Her counseling style is person-centered, focusing on helping clients achieve their self-defined goals in a supportive and collaborative environment. Ocean primarily integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Positive Psychology into her work, tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Chloe Landisman, LMSW
Chloe received her Master's of Social Work from Fordham University's Graduate School of Social Service. Chloe is dedicated to providing grounded, compassionate support to help clients reconnect with their inner wisdom. Creating a nonjudgmental and client-centered space is her highest priority. She specializes in supporting individuals navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, chronic health conditions, trauma, substance use, depression, anxiety, and women’s issues. Chloe's clinical experience includes working in intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization settings. Her therapeutic approach is holistic and integrative, drawing from a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, strengths-based techniques, as well as, expressive arts, somatic movement, and narrative therapy. Chloe views therapy as a collaborative journey. She meets clients exactly where they are and works with them to create a path forward that honors their pace and priorities. She believes each person has the capacity for healing and growth and sees her role as walking alongside them in that process.Maggie O'Reilly, LPC-A
Maggie is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate who holds a Master's degree from Fairfield University. She has experience in many settings such as inpatient, community mental health, and schools. She provides individual, couple, and family therapy for children, teens, and adults. She offers warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed care to clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions. Rooted in person-centered values, Maggie draws on CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients process their experiences, build self-compassion, strengthen relationships, and work toward lasting change. She creates a safe, nonjudgmental, and culturally sensitive environment where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered.
Marcus Fox, LPC-A
Marcus is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate holding a Masters Degree from Western Connecticut State University. Marcus supports his clients with a blend of CBT and DBT modalities that is underpinned by his Person-Centered humanistic approach to psychotherapy. Marcus has a diverse history of clinical experience, primarily with adolescents and emerging adults in residential and intensive outpatient partial hospitalization settings. He also has extensive experience working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder and eating disorders. Marcus believes that any individual is capable and worthy of making substantial positive change in their life when the client is given the appropriate support.Michael Stukshis, LPC-A
Michael Stukshis earned his degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St. Bonaventure University. He works with clients of all ages—from children to adults, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, and emotional regulation. Michael utilizes approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mind-fullness Techniques, Narrative Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. He believes that life’s challenges can arise from past experiences, current stressors, or major life transitions, and that therapy should be tailored to each individual’s unique needs. He strives to create a compassionate and supportive environment where clients feel safe, understood, and free from judgment. Michael partners with his clients to build practical, everyday tools that promote genuine healing, personal growth, and a lasting sense of well-being.
Kayanna Schweitzer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff
Kayanna has been a foundational pillar of the Fortitude Center since it's inception. Kayanna drives both our daily operations and long term vision as Chief Financial Officer and Chief of Staff. She channels that same precision into her role as our Certified Medical Billing Specialist. She manages the heavy lifting of insurance logistics behind the scenes, ensuring a transparent and seamless financial experience. Kayanna's goal is to eliminate financial stress so you can focus entirely on your healing journey. For any questions regarding billing & insurance, Kayanna is your expert, go-to resource.Contact Us Today to Book Your First Appointment!
1118072
The Fortitude Center is proud to be an accredited site through the National Health Service Corps
Office Manager Hours
Monday
09:00 am - 06:00 pm
Tuesday
09:00 am - 06:00 pm
Wednesday
09:00 am - 06:00 pm
Thursday
09:00 am - 06:00 pm
Friday
09:00 am - 01:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed
Closed at noon till 1 pm for lunch