Meet Our Therapists

Sarah Schaffer, MA, LCPC, Clinical Director 

Sarah is a licensed clinical professional counselor with over 12 years of clinical experience working with various client populations in outpatient settings. She is passionate about increasing access to mental health services and knows the positive impact that early support can have on people's lives.

Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, Sarah worked in sales and business operations across various educational technology and nonprofit organizations. As the Clinical Director of Gaggle Therapy Services, she provides clinical oversight and support to ensure high-quality, evidence-based, and compliant delivery of services.

Portia Kresse, LCMHC

My name is Portia and I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in NC, SC, and PA, I'm also a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider. I have experience working in psychiatric treatment facilities and outpatient clinics. I'm passionate about working with kids and teens facing depression, anxiety, adjustment and trauma history. I believe everyone deserves love, respect, and acceptance simply for who they are.

The best part about providing therapy is being trusted to create a supportive environment for someone facing a challenging time and seeing them become the best version of themselves. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outside with my family and gaining new experiences. I hope you know that you are strong and you are worthy of happiness, love and being listened to.  

Sarah Allen, LCPC

Sarah is a licensed clinical professional counselor and specializes in working with children and teens. My therapy approach is person centered and strengths based. Using solution focused and cognitive behavioral techniques. I'm committed to have my clients leave each session feeling lighter and more connected with themselves. Each client is the expert in their own life, my role as a therapist is to create a safe space for you to explore what isn't working and why. We will build on what is working in your life and work together to learn new coping skills and ignite your unique spark.

I specialize in working with youth struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adverse life experiences, learning disabilities and attentional problems. I want my clients to feel comfortable and provide a kind listening ear in a judgment free zone. I enjoy seeing individuals become the best version of themselves. 

Kristi Willis, LPC

I am Kristi Willis, LPC, with Gaggle Therapy. I am a South Carolina native and enjoy small town life in the rural Lowcountry of South Carolina with my adult and teen daughters. We enjoy boating, camping, pageants, and music festivals. The best things about being a Therapist with Gaggle is the ability to help students from all over the state while having a great management team.

I am semi-retired and love the scheduling freedom as well. Gaggle has been an ideal environment for my lifestyle. I love that it fits the lifestyles of the families and students we serve as well. If you ever need help we are able to meet you where you are and have the freedom and flexibility to schedule around your lifestyle. I look forward to every new client as well as established ones. It is always a great time to begin or continue the healing, processing and growing process. I look forward to meeting you!!!  

 Amy Thomas, LCSW

I’m Amy Thomas, a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience helping individuals navigate their emotional landscapes. My approach is client-centered—I believe in building resilience and self-awareness while collaborating with students on their personal goals. I specialize in supporting students dealing with anxiety, grief, and negotiating peer relationships, while helping my younger friends manage a range of feelings and emotions. I find joy in guiding students toward their best selves and celebrating their progress along the way!

When I’m not in my therapy space, you can find me enjoying time with my two German Shepherd mixes, Gus and Max, who bring fun and energy to my life! I’m always up for a good laugh and believe that embracing happiness is as important as tackling the tough stuff. Let’s connect and embark on this journey together!  

Clifford Kuster

Cliff is a licensed professional counselor. He is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He has worked with children as young as five and adults as old as 85. He has worked with diverse populations including formerly homeless veterans and adolescent sex trafficking victims.

One of his mantras is “our goal is to become a little healthier today than we were yesterday.” Cliff loves being a Therapist at Gaggle. Cliff sees therapy as the art of mutual discovery, working together to create self-improvement. Cliff believes that every day is a journey of self-discovery. Cliff loves to read works of fiction and try out new recipes. 

Lynette Rohan

Lynette is a compassionate, experienced therapist who provides a supportive space tailored to each client’s unique needs. She works with children, teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship issues, and school or work challenges.

Using evidence-based approaches, Lynette helps clients build on their strengths to create meaningful, lasting change. She understands that starting therapy can feel daunting and strives to make the process warm, welcoming, and empowering.  

Emily Pearlstein

Emily Pearlstein has extensive experience in the field, she has worked in various settings such as outpatient mental health clinics, adolescent group homes and emergency response social services. She has a passion for working with children and adolescents, and her postgraduate training includes parent-child interaction therapy. Her range of therapeutic modalities are tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients. These modalities include the following: play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), strengths-based therapy, and mindfulness training.

Emily also believes in the power of humor as a therapeutic tool, using it to help clients feel more at ease while exploring their feelings and developing the skills necessary to navigate life's challenges.In her spare time, Emily enjoys unwinding with a session of yoga and diving into a trendy fiction book. She is continuously seeking inspiration and balance both personally and professionally.