
Adams Counseling Team
Welcome to our team of experienced therapists dedicated to promoting healing and positive well-being. Each member of our team brings a wealth of diverse backgrounds and expertise in various clinical settings. We are passionate about creating a nurturing environment where individuals can embark on their journey towards emotional and psychological wellness. Drawing from our collective knowledge and specialized training, we offer a comprehensive approach to address a wide range of mental health concerns. Our primary goal is to empower and guide individuals and families in their pursuit of personal growth, resilience, and overall well-being. Through compassionate care and evidence-based practices, we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. Join us as we support you in achieving lasting healing and cultivating a life of thriving and fulfillment where you can life your best life.
Denise Adams, MS, NBCC, LCPC
Maryland Board Certified Clinical Supervisor
My Approach
Welcome!
I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, tailoring my approach to meet their unique needs. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other challenge, I offer evidence-based therapies to help you reach your goals. With experience across diverse clients, I prioritize building a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship.
For children and teens, I utilize a play-based approach to foster expression and coping skills. With families, I focus on improving communication and strengthening relationships. For couples, I assist in enhancing communication, rebuilding trust, and deepening connection.
Believing in everyone's capacity for growth and change, I'm here to support you on your journey. My approach centers on collaboration, empathy, and authenticity, aiming to empower you towards a happier, healthier life. Let's begin your path to healing and personal growth together. Reach out to schedule a consultation.
My Professional Background

BS In Special Education from Coppin University
MS in Counseling from McDaniel College
Credentialing through Loyola and McDaniel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 2017
Maryland Approved Certified Supervisor of LGPC
PrePare Trained
CAMS Trained
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Anxiety
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Relationship Difficulties
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Life Transitions
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ADHD
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PTSD
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Depression
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School related anxiety
In addition to my formal training, I worked with Hopeworks, the Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Assault Center for Howard County, as a patient advocate at Howard County General Hospital. I also worked as a clinician in the center, serving the victims of IPV and SA as they work through their trauma.
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Melissa Cheadle, MS, NCC, LGPC
My Approach
I am Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor. I received my Master's Degree in Counselor Education from McDaniel College in 2008. In addition to my education and training, I also have experience as a School Counselor in Howard County, Maryland since 2012. I enjoy working with clients of all ages. With a passion for helping people achieve their full potential, I have dedicated my career to helping others. Through years of education, training, and experience, I have honed my skills in providing therapy and counseling to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it's navigating life's challenges, overcoming trauma, or managing
mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
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I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to help clients thrive.
With a deep understanding of the complex nature of mental health, I am an expert in helping
individuals gain insight, develop coping strategies, and achieve their goals.
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My Professional Background
BS in Psychology from McDaniel College
MS in Counseling from McDaniel College
LGPC

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​Jodi Svoboda, MS, NCC, LCPC
My Approach
I am a licensed graduate clinical counselor and a certified school counselor. I provide mental health therapy services to children, adolescents and adults to address a wide variety of mental and emotional stressors. I have worked in private and public school settings providing individual, and group therapy.
I specialize in assisting clients in coping with anxiety and depression, and a variety of mental health disorders. I believe that a strong
client/counselor relationship in a supportive,
compassionate, encouraging environment will
help you find healing and peace.
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Professional Background
BS Monmoth University
MS Loyola University
LCPC
DBT Certified
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Emily Small, MS, NCC, LGPC
My Approach
I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling from Jacksonville University in 2023. I have experience helping children ranging from 4 years old to 15 years old to manage anxiety, depression, overcome traumatic experiences and ADHD. I have a passion for helping people work through life’s challenges to achieve their full potential. Through education and training, I have developed my skills in counseling individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I am committed to providing a judgment free, inviting environment for people to feel understood and receive personalized care.
Professional Background
BS in Psychology from the University of North Florida
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
with a Concentration in Marriage and Family Counseling
from Jacksonville University
National Certified Counselor

Stephanie Swonger, M.Ed, NCC, LGPC
My Approach
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Lets face it, life can be challenging sometimes, especially if you’re carrying the weight of trauma or the overwhelming experience that our anxiety can cause. You are not alone in this and I am here to walk alongside you as you move towards a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. In our sessions you can expect to feel heard, your feelings will be acknowledged, and your story will be valued. Together, we will navigate life’s challenges in a way that feels right for you.
As the wife of an army veteran and police officer, I am particularly passionate about working with the families of our nation’s heroes. I appreciate the unique challenges they face and am committed to guiding them through their healing process, honoring their sacrifices along the way.
Utilizing a framework rooted in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy and over 16 years of mental health experience, I am dedicated to helping others reclaim their lives, rewrite their stories and rediscover their strength and resilience. For me, this isn’t just a career, it's my life's purpose.
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Professional Background
BS in Clinical Psychology from Towson University
M.S. Ed. in School Counseling from Loyola University Maryland
NCC, NCSC, LGPC
TF-CBT post graduate training
Trauma Professional post graduate training

Jim Tobin, M.Ed, LCPC, NCC, NCSC
My Approach
I have been a nationally certified and licensed clinical professional counselor since 2016 while also working in a school setting for over a decade. Providing mental health therapy to children, adolescents and adults is my passion.
I believe that therapy has the ability to change the lives of clients and help them achieve their best self. Building a strong rapport with clients is a critical first step and I use a variety of theories and techniques to tailor sessions for each individual.
I have experience working with clients with a variety of mental health challenges and I am committed to providing therapy that helps clients of all ages utilize a variety of coping strategies to reach their mental health goals.
Professional Background
BA University of Maryland College Park
M.Ed Loyola University Maryland
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Nationally Certified Counselor

Kim Perillo, M.Ed, NCC, LGPC
My Approach
With 22 years in education and 16 years in the field of counseling, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve emotional well-being. I use a variety of evidence-based treatments to address challenges with stress management, parenting, child and adolescent mental health, and achieving work-life balance. I believe in providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their feelings and develop strategies to thrive. I use a person-centered approach and believe that the client should be empowered through the counseling experience to achieve their goals. Together, we can work through difficult moments and build the tools needed for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or just seeking guidance in a challenging season, I am here to support you on
your journey to healing and personal growth.
Professional Background
BS in Education from Salisbury University
M.S.Ed in School Counseling from Loyola University Maryland
Nationally Certified Counselor
LGPC
SPACE Certified
(Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotion)
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Katherine Mooney, BS ​
​My Approach​
I’m thrilled to be part of Adams Counseling as I complete my practicum and internship in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at McDaniel College. With a background in psychology from UMBC and experience in special education with Baltimore County Public Schools, I am passionate about creating a safe, welcoming, and judgment-free space for clients.
My approach encourages individuality, diversity, and personal growth, empowering clients to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. I work with clients of all ages and tailor treatment to their unique needs. My areas of interest include anxiety, mood, behavioral, and personality disorders. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to well-being!
Professional Background
Bachelors in Psychology from UMBC
Masters Program at McDaniel College (Present)
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Morgan Stevens, BS
​My Approach
I am a graduate student at McDaniel College in the clinical mental health counseling program. I am starting my practicum/internship experience with Adams Counseling. I am very excited to create a judgment-free space where children, adolescents, and young adults feel less alone! I love a person-centered style of therapy because I think the client should always be in charge of their own treatment. However, I like to adjust my style based on what the client needs so that they feel the most empowered. My interests are in anxiety, mood disorders, stress, and self-image struggles.
Professional Background
BS
McDaniel College - Clinical Mental Health (Present)
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