Our Location & Team

Your Journey Starts Here

  • Why Westport, Connecticut?

    LiftWell is nestled in the historic and vibrant community of Westport, Connecticut. This picturesque town is more than just a backdrop for our center; it is a crucial part of the healing process. Westport’s serene landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and supportive community make it the perfect location for those seeking peace and inspiration during their recovery journey. The natural beauty and tranquil environment of Westport enhance our holistic treatment approach, providing our clients with a calm space to focus on their recovery.

  • Designed for Comfort and Recovery

    LiftWell operates out of a carefully restored 1700s building, which has been transformed into a state-of-the-art treatment facility while retaining its historical charm. Our facilities are designed to feel like a home away from home, providing a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment where clients can focus on their healing. Each space within our center is thoughtfully designed to foster recovery, introspection, and growth. It’s a place where you can find peace and take a breath.

Our Founder & Team

At the heart of LiftWell is our founder, Mary Dobson, whose personal battle with an eating disorder and profound professional experience in mental health shaped her vision for a different kind of treatment center. Mary’s journey from patient to therapist to innovative founder has instilled LiftWell with a unique philosophy that integrates comprehensive mental health care with a holistic approach to well-being. Here at LiftWell, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, empowering our clients to not only recover but also find a new sense of purpose and joy in life.

“Part of maintaining my own recovery has been helping others. Finding myself to be of service in the world gave me a reason to recover when I didn’t care enough to do it for myself. What started as a dream —and perhaps even an experiment—has now become a reality: under this roof, we provide highly individualized, trauma-informed care for both pediatric and adult patients in Southeastern Connecticut.”
— Mary Dobson, LMFT, CEDS
  • Mary Dobson, MA, LMFT, CEDS

    Mary Dobson, MA, LMFT, CEDS

    FOUNDER & CEO

  • Samantha Stevens, LPC

    Samantha Stevens, LPC

    PSYCHOTHERAPIST

  • Kelsey Riesbeck, RD

    Kelsey Riesbeck, RD

    DIRECTOR OF DIETARY SERVICES

  • Kristie Shannon, Nutritionist

    Kristie Shannon

    NUTRITIONIST & MILIEU COORDINATOR

  • Christine Sacane, MA, LCSW

    Christine Sacane, MA, LCSW

    PROGRAM DIRECTOR

  • Kimberly Jane Lake, MSN, FNP-BC

    Kimberly Jane Lake, MSN, FNP-BC

    MEDICAL DIRECTOR, ADULT PHP/IOP

  • Dr. Frank Appah, MD, PhD

    MEDICAL DIRECTOR, ADOLESCENT IOP/PHP

  • Dr Alyssa Bennett MD

    Dr Alyssa Bennett MD

    MEDICAL DIRECTOR, ADOLESCENT PROGRAMS

  • Dr. Patricia Hardy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, DNP

    Dr. Patricia Hardy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, DNP

    PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER

  • Allison Cooke

    Allison Cooke, BA

    CLINICAL INTERN

  • Alex Kroudis, LMFT

    LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

  • Maria Cimina, LPC-A, MSEd

    Maria Cimina, LPC-A, MSEd

    PSYCHOTHERAPIST

  • Andrea Ciarlelli, MA, LMFT

    Andrea Ciarlelli, MA, LMFT, Licensed Body Positive Facilitator

    CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

  • Jasmine Vega

    Jasmine Vega, BA

    ADMISSIONS MANAGER

  • Audrey Fox

    Audrey Fox, BA

    ADMISSIONS COORDINATOR

  • Briana Weaver

    DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION

  • Dr Mark Beitel, PhD

    Dr Mark Beitel, PhD

    NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST

  • Halley Ceglia Terrell, LCSW, LICSW

    Halley Ceglia Terrell, LCSW, LICSW

    YOGA THERAPIST

  • Katie Swartchild Penna

    PSYCHOTHERAPIST

  • Rachel Blackley

    CLINICAL INTERN

We Are Here for You

The LiftWell approach combines evidence-based therapies, integrated care, and a welcoming environment where healing can happen close to the people and places that matter most. At LiftWell, we’re proud to be part of Southeastern Connecticut, serving as a trusted partner in recovery and growth for our neighbors.

CONTACT US

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