Our Clinicians

CREATE! Center For Expressive Arts, Therapy & Education has an exceptional team of counselors with a wide range of experience and expertise. Centered on a cognitive-behavioral approach to each client’s goals, our therapists use both clinical and arts-based interventions to help clients achieve their desired mental health outcomes.

Take a look at this amazing group.

Please note: Availability and insurance acceptance vary by clinician. Contact us to learn more about clinicians who accept your insurance.

Amy Baylaurel Casey, MS, CMHC (they/them), is a master’s-level clinical mental health counselor who received their Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Plymouth State University. They identify as LGBTQIA+ and focus their practice on trauma-informed care, LGBTQIA+ and gender-affirming care, anxiety, and depression.

Amy works with clients ages 8–88 and uses a person-centered approach informed by expressive arts, feminist, narrative, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), existential, Gestalt, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), and solution-focused theories.

I specialize in working with trauma using psychodrama, art therapy, and play therapy. Human imagination and creativity allow us to reach parts of ourselves with care, without re-traumatizing the soul. Therapy should be a safe space to explore the essence of who we are and how we operate—this is a space I am honored to hold for others.

I hold an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, an M.S. in Ecology, and a B.A. in Theater Arts. I have completed a three-year tracking and survival program in the wilds, worked as a wildlife guide in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, taught for 18 years, and occasionally enjoy creating murals.

My journey has led me to live throughout this country and abroad. I enjoy the ecology of humans just as much as the wilds. Using a humanistic lens, I endeavor to identify the threads that have woven the fabric of who we are today. Through gentle examination and curiosity, we can learn to love ourselves as we wish to be loved.

At the CREATE! Center For Expressive Arts, Therapy & Education, Melaney Schmertzler, MS, LCMHC, serves as the Clinical Director. Melaney brings 40 years of experience in human services, including a background in nursing, professional work with specialized populations such as veterans, and more than 12 years focused on mental health counseling. Her clinical expertise includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma therapy, and crisis intervention.

Melaney supervises clinical interns and master’s-level clinicians pursuing licensure. At this time, she is not accepting new clients for therapy sessions.

Hello, I’m Nicole, a dedicated clinical mental health counselor driven by a deep passion for guiding clients on their journeys toward becoming their best selves. With a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University, I bring a comprehensive understanding of mental health and a strong commitment to holistic wellness. I firmly believe that mental health is just as vital as physical health, and through collaboration, positive change and well-being are possible.

In my practice, I utilize a diverse range of therapeutic modalities tailored to each client’s unique needs. These include talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), art therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness techniques. My approach is client-centered and empathetic, fostering a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore challenges, discover strengths, and build resilience.

I find great fulfillment in walking alongside clients on their journeys toward personal growth and healing. Whether overcoming obstacles, developing coping skills, or enhancing self-awareness, I am dedicated to empowering individuals to navigate life’s complexities with confidence and clarity. Together, we can embark on a transformative process that promotes positive change and lasting wellness.

Have you ever woken up and thought, “I can’t keep doing this,” only to find yourself doing the very thing you swore off hours earlier? There comes a time when support is needed to cope with and overcome life’s obstacles. I work with individuals to help them recover from addiction, change unhealthy habits, improve relationships, and navigate life’s challenges. I tailor my approach to each individual, recognizing that every person brings a unique personality and set of circumstances. I believe in fostering a deeply caring, non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and supported.

My treatment approach is grounded in a strength-based, cognitive-behavioral model that incorporates EMDR and other therapeutic modalities. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with substance misuse, often alongside co-occurring concerns such as anxiety, depression, and anger management. My goal is to support you on your path to recovery by drawing on my personal experience, academic background, and professional expertise.

The most common feedback I receive from clients is that they find me genuine and trust that I am completely honest with them. During our sessions, I focus on building therapeutic relationships rooted in safety, authenticity, vulnerability, and mutual respect.

I offer LADC assessments and court-ordered evaluations. I am also an approved IDSP (Impaired Driver Service Provider) for individuals seeking to reinstate their driver’s license.

I am a graduate of Southern New Hampshire University and am currently working toward licensure under the supervision of our director, Steven Durost. I have experience in both community mental health and private practice through my internship here at CREATE! Center For Expressive Arts, Therapy & Education! Through these experiences, I have worked with a diverse group of clients across all age groups.

In my free time, I enjoy theater, music, video games, and reading, and I love anything related to animals. My goal as a therapist is to be open and accessible to anyone who feels they would benefit from counseling, and I strive to do so in a way that is unique to each client.

Whether you are working through specific challenges or feeling unsure about the path you are on and simply want someone to listen and walk alongside you, I aim to be a source of support. I am here to help you move toward the version of yourself you want to be. The world can be a stressful place, and I believe counseling can be a meaningful first step in making life feel a little easier to navigate.

I am a master’s-level clinician and a graduate of Southern New Hampshire University, where I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am passionate about supporting individuals in achieving mental wellness and emotional resilience. Throughout my experiences, I have had the privilege of working with diverse client populations, guiding them as they navigate their personal journeys.

My approach to counseling is integrative and tailored to the unique needs and goals of each client. Establishing strong therapeutic relationships and providing a safe, nonjudgmental space are central to my practice. I strive to create trusting, inclusive relationships where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore their inner strengths and healing.

If you’re ready to embark on a journey toward greater mental health and well-being, I am here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can cultivate resilience, foster growth, and promote positive change. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to schedule a session—I look forward to working with you!

I’m a passionate and dedicated therapist specializing in play therapy, geek therapy, and strengths- and interests-based approaches across the lifespan. My goal is to give you the tools you need to find your voice. I’m here to make your therapy experience safe, calm, and less intimidating. Therapy can be like a cup of tea (or an ice cream sundae)—it’s all how you make it. You deserve the best therapeutic experience possible, which includes finding the right fit.

I believe that play has significant value in the therapeutic process. Play enriches our lives, and we all play in various ways throughout the lifespan. As a Certified Geek Therapist, I weave my clients’ passions and interests into evidence-based approaches for rapport-building, growth, insight, and healing, addressing a variety of mental health needs. You already have the skills you need to navigate the challenges in your life, and I’m here to guide you through them.

“Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, dreams are forever.” – Walt Disney

Whether you are seeking a space for reflection, to process a painful experience, or for relationship support, you are in the right place. I firmly believe in the power of healing through connection, making the therapeutic relationship a key component of growth. My top priority is to build a relationship grounded in the essential ingredients of all healthy connections: authenticity, trust, empathy, and non-judgment.

I understand how deeply personal the therapeutic process can be and honor the trust required. My goal is to understand your values, perspective, and experiences, offering therapy that meets you where you are and guides you toward where you want to be. I have supported individuals, families, and young adults in a variety of areas, including—but not limited to—effective communication, conflict management, trust rebuilding, anxiety management, and building a positive self-concept.

Whatever your presenting concern, I am here to walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey.

Healing occurs when we feel seen, heard, and accepted. In that space, we become empowered to live a life aligned with our values. A felt sense of safety and grounding is essential for regulating our nervous systems and accessing our inner wisdom. Together, we will work collaboratively on challenges and explore how they can become opportunities for personal growth. We will also identify specific tools and coping strategies tailored to support you in your process.

As a yoga instructor, I integrate yoga and embodiment practices into my work, along with mindfulness, self-compassion, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), communication skills, grounding techniques, coping strategies, Emotional Freedom Technique (tapping), art-based approaches, and more. I am always expanding my clinical toolbox to help you reach your therapy goals.

I enjoy working with clients of all ages on anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, unhelpful thinking patterns, emotional regulation, and stress-related concerns. I also have experience with thought, mood, and personality disorders, as well as behavioral and emotional difficulties in alternative school settings. I provide services via telehealth only.

I am ready to join you on the journey to a healthier mind, body, and soul. To do this, we may explore what is not working in your present and, when helpful, examine past experiences—all with an eye toward creating a better future. During this journey, you will learn coping skills, build safety, and develop support systems. Together, we will ensure you have the strengths you need to reach your ultimate goals.

I aim to provide an accepting space where you can process your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment or shame. It is a space where you will feel both heard and challenged. Together, we will adapt therapy to meet your needs and help you move toward the vision you have for your life.

Growth and change are not easy—they are often downright hard. Counseling works best when you actively engage in the process. If you are ready to begin or continue your journey, I am here to help you take the next best steps.

After receiving my bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Elms College, I completed my master’s in Social Work in 2015 at Westfield State University. I completed my master’s-level internship at After Incarcerated Support Systems with the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, counseling individuals post-incarceration. Most of my professional experience has been with children, particularly collaborating with the Department of Children and Families to connect children with childcare services and helping families access additional resources.

Prior to joining this field, I gained extensive experience coaching youth sports and working with various age groups in daycare settings. These experiences have provided me with multiple perspectives on child development. I enjoy working with both children and adults, and my combined professional and personal experiences have helped me develop the tools necessary to support clients across the lifespan.

My approach to counseling focuses on viewing a person as a whole and facilitating a process in which individuals can discover strengths, qualities, and tools to support their ongoing healing.

Personally, I love spending time with my family and staying active through sports.

My many years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker have allowed me to serve adults, children, couples, and families facing a variety of life’s challenges. I offer a warm and caring approach and believe that therapy is most effective when clients and clinicians work together to understand and address these challenges. I am a firm believer that, given the right conditions, every person has the potential for growth and healing.

My work as a clinical social worker has provided me with insight and understanding into issues related to aging, parenting, school, and vocational challenges. I have extensive experience supporting individuals with postpartum depression, infant and pregnancy loss, and I am attuned to the burdens experienced by family and professional caregivers, such as compassion fatigue. I also have experience assisting individuals and families in crisis, providing stabilization, crisis planning, and prevention.

I believe that the relationship between a client and therapist is built on trust and respect. Reaching out for help can be difficult and humbling, yet it demonstrates courage, strength, and character. Regardless of your past or current circumstances, I believe that every person has the potential for change and growth—and often, meaning and personal strength can be found even in life’s most difficult moments. We all get lost along life’s path and may need support to uncover our strengths and talents as we navigate pain and confusion.

Drawing on a variety of therapeutic approaches, including talk, play, and expressive therapies, we will collaborate to find strategies that work best for you as an individual.

Steven Durost, PhD, LCMHC, REAT is the Executive Director and Owner of CREATE! Center For Expressive Arts, Therapy & Education in Manchester, NH, which employs over 25 counselors and arts-based therapists. We received the 2010 New Hampshire National Alliance for Mental Illness Award for Systems Change.

Steven has been honored with the Heroes of Justice Award by the YWCA Crisis Services for his work with the Male Sexual Abuse Survivor’s Group and for serving as a first responder for human trafficking. He is among the first dozen people worldwide to earn a Doctorate in Expressive Art Therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA. Steven has taught as adjunct faculty at Springfield College, Lesley University (in the U.S. and Israel), New Hampshire Institute of Art, and New England College. His counseling work centers on trauma recovery, and his research focuses on the meaning of aging for people over 65. In studying these areas, Steven conducted research, taught courses, and created therapeutic groups in South Africa, Israel, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.

Steven is a Registered Art Therapist with the International Expressive Art Therapy Association. He developed and taught the psychodrama and sociometry course for Lesley University’s Undergraduate Expressive Therapies Major. Steven has presented at the ASGPP, IAGP, and IEATA conferences and is a guest speaker on psychodrama at Lesley University, inspiring young professionals in the field. He is the recipient of the 2014 ASGPP Zerka T. Moreno Award for outstanding achievement in psychodrama.

Steven is also a leading trainer in the Therapeutic Spiral Model (TSM), a clinically based, trauma-informed, body-engaged approach designed to help individuals move through trauma to transformation. He has co-presented and led TSM psychodrama workshops around the world, including in China, Singapore, Sweden, Denmark, Greece, Croatia, the United States, and India. Outside of therapy, Steven is an invited kite-flyer at international kite festivals.

Contacting Steven
You can reach Steven to set up an appointment via the email below. All emails are routed through the intake coordinator, who will either schedule appointments for clinicians or forward the email to Steven for personal attention: stevendurost@castlecreate.com

Chelsea Shirshac is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and Psychology from Keene State College and a Master of Social Work from Salem State University. Chelsea completed her first internship in an elementary school and has a strong foundation in community mental health. She works with children ages 3 to 12.

Chelsea is deeply passionate about body-based psychotherapy for trauma treatment, and her clinical work is strongly informed by Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment (SMART), developed by clinicians at the Trauma Center in Brookline, Massachusetts, founded by Bessel van der Kolk. She is also Nationally Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and incorporates therapeutic play into her approach.

Kailey Fasugba is a licensed mental health, alcohol, and substance abuse counselor and a board-certified art therapist. She earned her B.S. in Clinical Psychology with a minor in Art from New England College in 2009 and her Master’s in Art Therapy with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University in 2013.

Kailey has 12 years of experience working in outpatient therapy settings with individuals and groups of children and adults, addressing mental health concerns, alcohol and substance use disorders, and utilizing expressive therapies. She uses a person-centered, strength-based approach, emphasizing that clients are the experts in their own lives while therapy provides tools to support growth and a more fulfilling life.

Outside of work, Kailey enjoys traveling, cooking and trying new recipes, and spending time with her cat.

I have always believed that art and expression can be powerful sources of healing. You don’t have to be an artist to create something meaningful and inspire growth within yourself! I am passionate about helping you reach your goals through loving-kindness and creative approaches.

I am a master’s-level clinician specializing in trauma-informed therapy that centers on the client. My approach blends five years of experience with results-oriented behavioral therapy with a strong foundation in trauma-informed care to establish stability and safety. I prioritize a strong therapeutic alliance, because once a stable foundation is in place, the work we do in therapy can translate into meaningful, positive change in your life. I work with you to unlock your potential for self-discovery and growth in whatever direction you are seeking.

I am a dedicated and creative therapist specializing in working with children and adolescents through play therapy, art-based approaches, and person-centered care. With a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University and eight years of experience as a teacher, I bring a deep understanding of child development and the unique challenges children may face both at home and in the classroom.

I strive to support young clients navigating anxiety, trauma, and learning differences by creating a safe, supportive space where they can express themselves freely and feel truly seen. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, creativity, and respect for each child’s individuality, helping them build resilience, emotional regulation, and confidence. I am passionate about helping children thrive by meeting them where they are, whether through imaginative play, expressive art, or heartfelt conversation.

I am passionate about helping individuals heal from their experiences with trauma and exploring the impact of family dynamics on younger generations.

I specialize in trauma-informed therapies that incorporate expression, strengths, and skill-building to reduce the effects of trauma on day-to-day life. These therapies include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), play therapy, sandtray, and art therapy. I am also certified in mindfulness and frequently integrate these practices into my work with clients. I welcome the opportunity to work with families, adults, and children over the age of twelve. My role as a therapist is to create a space where you feel safe to explore what is important and challenging for you.

I graduated from Bay Path University in 2025 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My clinical background includes community mental health and crisis work supporting adults with severe mental illness. I also hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts and have extensive knowledge of creativity, expression, and art-making.

Healing and growth occur when young people feel seen, safe, and supported. I work collaboratively with children, teens, and young adults to build a therapeutic relationship that encourages emotional exploration and fosters personal growth at their own pace.

To me, therapy isn’t just about managing challenges—it’s also about building confidence, strengthening relationships, and uncovering each person’s unique resilience. Drawing from a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, I tailor sessions to meet clients where they are and help them develop tools for emotional expression, regulation, and self-understanding.

My style is eclectic and rooted in evidence-based practices, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Adlerian Play Therapy (AdPT), and Expressive Arts. Whether through talk, play, or creative expression, I aim to meet each client with curiosity, respect, and care for their whole story.

Amy Baylaurel Casey, MS CMHC (they/them)

Amy Baylaurel Casey, MS CMHC (they/them) is a Master’s level clinical mental health counselor who received their Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Plymouth State University. They are an LGBQIA+ identifying counselor, with a practice that focuses on trauma, LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming care, anxiety, and depression. They work with clients age 8-88. They use expressive arts, feminist, narrative, ACT, existential, Gestalt, CBT, and solution-focused theories and have a person-centered approach.

Sara Cahn, MA, MS, L.M.T. (she/her/hers)

I specialize in working with trauma using psychodrama, art therapy, and play therapy. Human imagination and creativity allow us to reach parts of ourselves with care without re-traumatizing the soul. Therapy should be a safe space to explore the essence of who we are and how we operate. This is a space I am honored to hold for people. I hold an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, an M.S. in Ecology, a B.A. in Theater Arts, have graduated a three-year tracking and survival program in the wilds, worked as a wildlife guide in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, was a teacher for 18 years, and occasionally enjoy creating murals.

My journey has led me to live around this country and in others. I enjoy the ecology of humans just as much as the wilds. Using a humanistic lens, I endeavor to help identify the threads that have woven the fabric of who we are today. Through gentle examination and curiosity, we can come to love ourselves as we wish to be loved.

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Create Center For Expressive Arts, Therapy & Education

Meet Our Team

Meet Our Clinicians

Amy Baylaurel Casey, MS CMHC (They/Them)

Sara Cahn, MA, MS, L.M.T. (She/Her/Hers)

Melaney Schmertzler, MS, LCMHC (She/Her/Hers)

Nicole Bouchard, MA (She/Her/Hers)

Jill Pellegrino, MA, LADC (She/Her/Hers)

Brianna Spratt, MA (She/Her/Hers)

Mary Donovan, MA (She/Her/Hers)

Kayleen Bowden, MA, LCMHC (She/Her/Hers)

Anne Walbridge, MA, LCMHC (She/Her/Hers)

Gabby Casey, MA (She/Her/Hers)

Paula Semakula, MA (She/Her/Hers)

Rachel Henderson, MA, LICSW (She/Her/Hers)

Jane Pinard, MSW, LICSW (She/Her/Hers)

Steven Durost, PhD, LCMHC, REAT (He/Him/His)

Chelsea Shirshac, LICSW (She/Her/Hers)

Kailey Fasugba, LCMHC, ATR-BC (She/Her/Hers)

Miranda Moscatelli, MS (She/Her/Hers)

Morgan Joyce, MA (She/Her/Hers)

Sam Kelly, MS (She/Her/Hers)

Ashley McGonagle, MS (She/Her/Hers)

Amy Baylaurel Casey, MS CMHC (they/them)

Tyler Woodland

Patricia Archy

Sara Cahn, MA, MS, L.M.T. (she/her/hers)

Darell Sonnord

Tyler Woodland

Patricia Archy

Miranda Lickby

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