Counseling Center Staff | Kean University

Clinical Staff

JOHN GRADY, Ph.D. – DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF COUNSELING AND ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG SERVICES

Dr. Grady is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS), Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), and National Certified Counselor (NCC) who has earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Organizational Leadership. A board-certified counselor and practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dr. Grady specializes in the treatment of trauma-related disorders and addiction disorders. He uses EMDR, along with other evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), to help clients address a range of mental health challenges that include anxiety, mood, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.

Dr. Grady has taught in graduate school programs (e.g. Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness; Human Services) at multiple universities (e.g. New York University, Purdue University Global). His literary projects have included diverse topics such as clinical supervision, substance use disorder, group counseling, leadership development, and boxing. Dr. Grady is a two-time Kean University graduate who has worked with the Kean community since 2015.

JAMES MANDALA, Ph.D. – CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

James (Jim) Mandala, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 30 years experience in university counseling services. He completed his bachelors in psychology from Swarthmore College, a masters in psychology from Duquesne University, and a doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology - Berkeley. He is a founding board member of the New Jersey College Counseling Association and on the advisory board for Training in Unified Psychotherapy. In addition to providing counseling and psychotherapy, Dr. Mandala regularly provides clinical supervision and psychotherapy training.

Dr. Mandala uses a broad range of treatment approaches when working with students. He has extensive experience in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family stresses, trauma, eating disorders, and cultural adjustment. In addition to clinical work, Dr. Mandala is interested in community psychology - providing training and consultation to campus organizations on topics such as conflict resolution, mediation, suicide prevention, stress management, leadership, communication, and social justice.

When not at work Dr. Mandala hikes, travels, meditates, and plays several musical instruments badly.

ELIZABETH GERALDES, LPC – COUNSELOR

Elizabeth Geraldes is a licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Elizabeth graduated from Kean University Mental Health Counseling program in 2016. Most of Elizabeth's experiences have been working with clients with diverse backgrounds, first-generation immigrants, and those who suffer from anxiety disorders. She is a neurodivergent therapist, who has spent many years helping and coaching those who are diagnosed with being on the Autism Spectrum (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Elizabeth has extensive training in trauma practice, particularly around experiences of abuse, violence, and intergenerational trauma.

Elizabeth's passion in life has always been to provide relief and hope to all clients. She started in the field of mental health, as Respite Worker, Clinical Case Manager, a Crisis Counselor at a suicide hotline in NYC, has worked in private pracitce as a Therapist and Clinical Supervisor. Elizabeth Geraldes provides evidence-based practices as she is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TEAM-CBT, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Elizabeth's goal is to provide support to those who are willing to take the next step in their journey.

LYNNETTE DIAZ, LPC – COUNSELOR

Lynnette Diaz is a licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and a former High School Counselor. She holds dual Master's degrees in Counseling and Psychology from Kean University. Lynnette is a proud Dominican-American woman on a mission to reshape the mental health narrative within the Latino community. With over five years of counseling experience, she is passionate about breaking taboos and empowering the community toward holistic wellness. Lynnette enjoys working with adolescents through adults navigating the stress and uncertainties of major life transitions, such as those related to education, career, and personal growth. She has extensive experience working with individuals who suffer from Depressive and Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. Additionally, Lynnette has experience supporting first-generation immigrants through the unique challenges and adjustments they face in adapting to a new culture and environment.

Lynnette uses a range of treatment approaches when working with students, but she believes in the importance of empowering individuals through a strength-based perspective, understanding that each individual knows themselves best. Lynnette aims to provide support and create a nurturing space for individuals as they navigate their path to healing, respecting their unique timing and readiness. Lynnette describes herself as motivational, energetic, and sometimes humorous. She is bilingual in English and Spanish. Lynnette looks forward to meeting you.

AMANDA ARGENTO, LPC - COUNSELOR

Amanda Argento, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), brings over 15 years of experience in public education, supporting students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Holding certifications from the NJ Department of Education as a school counselor, school social worker, supervisor, and director of school counseling, Amanda is dedicated to advocating for students' needs. Specializing in working with young adults, she has expertise in assisting individuals navigating a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Amanda is committed to ensuring students feel fully supported as they gain insight, develop coping skills, and create positive changes in their lives.

MESHALA MORTON – GRADUATE COUNSELING INTERN

Meshala Morton is a former NCAA Division I track and field athlete who brings a unique blend of athletic experience and academic expertise to the field of mental health and performance. A proud graduate of Hampton University, Meshala earned a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology. Driven by a passion for understanding the mental aspects of performance and wellness, she went on to complete a master’s degree in Sport Psychology from Ithaca College.

Further deepening her commitment to mental health and counseling, Meshala pursued a second master's degree in professional counseling and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from Seton Hall University. With a strong foundation in both sport and clinical psychology, she is dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental well-being and achieve personal and professional goals.

Currently, Meshala serves as the Program Director for an OVW (Office on Violence Against Women) grant, leading initiatives that support survivors and promote prevention through education and advocacy. In addition to this role, Meshala supports the campus counseling center as a therapist, providing direct mental health services to students. Her work reflects a deep commitment to empowering others and fostering resilience through both therapeutic and educational interventions.

SARA SABER, M.A., COUNSELING INTERN

Sara received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Arts in Communication & Culture from Fordham University. She is currently pursuing her master's in professional counseling (Ed.S.) at Seton Hall University. Sara is passionate about supporting young adults in navigating identity development, life transitions, and mental wellness from a holistic and culturally informed lens. She is excited to deepen her clinical experience through her internship at Kean University and looks forward to growing as a compassionate and reflective counselor.

ALYSSA WESTDYK, M.A., COUNSELING INTERN

Alyssa Westdyk is a graduate student pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Fairleigh Dickinson University. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from New York University. Alyssa brings experience working with older adults through life transitions. She is now excited to expand her clinical work by supporting young adults as a counseling intern at Kean University. In her free time, Alyssa enjoys learning new recipes, reading, and spending time at the Jersey Shore.