Sandra M. Pattinato, MEd, LPC

  • Hi, I’m Sandra, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I truly believe that we all have the capacity for personal growth and transformation—it’s something we’re all capable of with the right support and guidance. Outside of the therapy room, I find joy in the simple things: spending time in nature, growing healthy vegetables in my garden, and walking my three wonderful dogs.

  • In our work together, I create a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I draw from several therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. These tools help us build effective coping strategies and create meaningful, positive changes in your life. Every session is tailored to meet your needs, and we move at a pace that feels right for you.

  • If you're looking for someone who truly listens, meets you with empathy, and walks beside you with care and professionalism, we might be a good match. I’m passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges and I work hard to build authentic, supportive connections with each of my clients.

  • Item description

  • I am currently in-network with the following insurance providers:

    • UPMC

    • Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

    • Aetna

    • United Health/Optum

    • Cigna

    • Anthem

    • Headway

    • Allegheny County Medicaid

Danielle Hammitt, MS, NCC, LPC

  • Hello, I am going to be honest, writing this bio was a little difficult because I as most of know it can be difficult to write about oneself but here goes!! I love animals and currently own two cats and one horse. I have a minor in music and like to watch old musicals and TV shows. In the summer I like to swim and in the winter I like to snow tube. 

  • I typically like to dive right in, get to know my clients, and what they are struggling with. We can begin working on things right away or I can adapt and take a slower approach if you prefer. We will begin building rapport and I will learn what is important to you.

    I feel you are the expert of your life therefore I feel it is important to hear you tell your story. This is how I will discover thought and behavioral patterns that could be potential areas of need. I will help promote positive thinking patterns, increase self-esteem, and combat irrational/overthinking habits.

    My clients can expect an elevation in mood by having a safe environment to unload their burdens. I will provide positive, honest, and non judgmental reflections to help facilitate change.

  • I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, social anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I feel my strengths lie in treating adults struggling with boundary issues, poor communication, unhealthy coping skills, and anger management concerns.

    Everyone is unique and experiences life differently from their own perspective. Therefore I don’t use just one method or intervention with my clients. I use a variety of evidence-based interventions including Person Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused and Mindfulness Therapy.

  • I am available for telehealth sessions Monday-Thursday 9am-7pm I am available for both in person or telehealth appointments Friday and Saturday 9am-4pm. 

  • Accepted insurances include: UPMC, HM/BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, United Health/Optum. I also accept medicaid plans for Allegheny and Washington Counties. 

Vanessa Neel, MSEd, NCC, LPC

  • Hi, I’m Vanessa. In both my personal and professional life, I value connection, curiosity, and growth. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, taking my dog on outdoor adventures, and diving into DIY home improvement projects. These activities bring balance and joy to my life—and I believe in helping others find that same sense of fulfillment in their own lives.

  • Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and my first priority is helping you feel at ease. In our initial sessions, we'll work together to clarify what you hope to explore or change. From there, I see therapy as a collaborative process—one where we build awareness, uncover insights, and develop tools that support your personal goals. Whether we’re reflecting on deeper patterns or learning practical skills, each session is tailored to your unique experience and needs.

  • I work primarily with adults who want to understand how their past experiences influence their current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and addiction, and I especially enjoy working with those who are ready to explore meaningful change through self-awareness and emotional growth.

  • I offer both in-person and virtual sessions, with flexible scheduling options including daytime and evening appointments to best accommodate your needs.

  • I am in-network with the following insurance providers: UPMC (commercial plans), Cigna, Highmark, Aetna, and BlueCross BlueShield. Please note that I do not accept medical assistance plans. If you prefer to self-pay, you can find details on rates on the Fees & Insurance page.

Kelly McCall, MS, LPC

  • Outside of my therapist role, I like to spend time with my family, friends, and cats. I also enjoy watching new episodes of my favorite shows and doing something creative such as writing and collaging. 

  • Our therapy sessions are yours and you get to decide how we spend our time. I like to check in on how things have been since we last met, as well as explore what feels helpful to focus on that day. I’ll work to help guide you through processing, learning helpful skills, and take steps toward your goals. Humor, when appropriate, can also be a very helpful part of therapy and healing, so don’t be surprised if you find us sharing a laugh during our sessions!

  • I work with adults of all ages who are experiencing many different mental health symptoms such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. I have experience working with clients from many different backgrounds and life situations, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you’re wanting to work on improving your mental health symptoms, navigating life transitions, or just having a space to process, I may be a good fit for you. 

  • I offer virtual appointments through a secure telehealth system. Currently, I have availability on Mondays and Fridays. We can schedule a consultation call to discuss what would work with your schedule. 

  • I am in-network with the following companies:

    • UPMC

    • Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

    • Aetna

    • United Health/Optum

    • Cigna

    • Anthem

    • Headway

    • Allegheny County Medicaid

Cait Carpico, LPC

  • Prior to working with Better You, I worked for a large hospital system and treated patients with a variety of symptoms in both an adult and pediatric setting. I use a "blended" approach of several types of therapy, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Bevioral Thearpy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Relational Cultural Theory.

  • I believe in transparency in my approach, so therapy will never feel mysterious or intimidating. After deciding on a direction, we will have open discussions about evidence based treatments for your concerns and current understandings of symptoms you may be experiencing. In our sessions, we will explore patterns in your relationships and thinking, discuss hard truths, strive for growth and challenge, and try to have a little fun.

  • I specialize in working with gender and women's issues, role transitions, relationship struggles, LGBTQ+ community members, and burnout. I have experience working with people in the medical or mental health feild who navigate work stress and moral injury, as well as people navigating gender transition, family disfunction, ADHD, OCD, and childhood trauma. Therapy is most effective when you feel your therapist is the right personality fit and has the training to meet your needs. Please reach out via email or phone with your availability and goals for therapy and I will be in touch to consult with you. In consultations, we will discuss your goals for therapy and current needs, as well as make some time for you to ask any questions you may have of me. I look forward to hearing from you!

  • I offer in-person sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays, and virtual sessions on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. I have very limited evening appointments at this time. I have several spots open for midday or early afternoon.

  • I accept Highmark, Blue Cross Blue Sheild, Aetna, UPMC, United, and some medicaid plans. I accept self-pay for those who do not wish to go through insurance. Please refer to our rates page for more information.

Catherine Ferguson, MA, LPC, LCPC, CCTP-1

  • I am a Pittsburgh area native, so you’ll often hear me using a variety of Pittsburghese, most often yinz! I lived in Chicago for 10 years, where I attended The Chicago School of Professional Psychology for my Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology, from which I graduated from in 2013. I have been in the mental health field since my internship in 2012, working in a variety of settings such as nursing homes, military bases, and community mental health agencies. I received my Illinois license (LCPC) in 2016 and Pennsylvania license (LPC) in 2021. As the saying “Once a Pittsburgher, always a Pittsburgher” goes, my family and I moved back in 2021. I consider Chicago my second home, so I’m always up for giving restaurant recommendations when clients share that they’re visiting! 

    Being a therapist is a large part of my identity that I actively embrace, even outside of the office! I am often taking trainings, participating in consultation groups, and geeking out/reading about specific interests and treatment modalities. When I'm not doing those things, I'm chasing after my two young children, loving on my five cats and 1 dog, reading one of my many To Be Read books, cleaning my house (my favorite coping skill!), shopping at Aldi or the Dollar Tree, and spending time with friends and family.

  • People choose to start therapy for a variety of reasons. Some come prepared knowing exactly what issue or area of improvement they need help with, and/or the specific treatment modality they’d like to try. Others may not know either of those things, just that need help and don’t know where to start. Wherever you're at on that spectrum, my role as a therapist is to continuously assess your progress and efficacy of modalities being used, provide guidance and direction, and most of all, support. I often say to my clients, “You’re in the driver’s seat of this journey. I’m just a passenger, hanging out, holding the GPS, offering suggestions of which way to go, and supporting you with whatever direction you choose to take.” Although I start every session with “How are you? What’s been going on?” I am not the type of therapist to solely discuss your week. I always hold space for whatever the client needs in the moment (as this is YOUR time!) while also maintaining awareness of your goals, working towards them in whatever way you show up that day. No matter what we're both bringing to the therapy space on any given day, just know that you’ll always be greeted with a smile (and many other facial expressions during session!), see me drinking three different beverages throughout, and, if meeting virtually, an occasional visit from my “emotional support cat/therapy assistant” Grace. 

  • As previously mentioned, I love to learn! If I could be a professional student, I would. Through my trainings in Somatic Psychotherapy, Parts-Work/Ego States/IFS, Polyvagal Theory, Dissociation, and EMDR, I've become specialized in working individually with adults 18+ navigating C-PTSD and trauma, anxiety, nervous system dysregulation, and dissociation. I am also experienced supporting those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Mood Disorders (i.e. Bipolar/Depression, etc.), and the Veteran/Military population.

  • I am currently out of the office until mid to late June 2025 and am not accepting new clients at this time. Please check back the end of May/early June for my new schedule and availability! 

  • I am in-network with the following insurance plans: UPMC, Highmark/Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United/Optum, Oscar, Oxford, Cigna, Multiplan, TriCare, and Allegheny County Medicaid/Community Care Behavioral Health Organization (CCBHO). 

    I am also able to see clients in Illinois and am in-network with the following plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and Massachusetts, United/Optum, Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, and Carelon Behavioral Health. I am not in network with any Illinois Medicaid plans. 

    If you would like to self-pay for sessions, please refer to the Fees & Insurance page for rate information. I offer a limited amount of sliding-scale slots at $75 per session for specific situations. Please inquire for more information! 

Abbagail Kitzmiller

  • As a part of therapy we want to get to also know our therapist! I am a person of many hobbies such as being outdoors, reading, traveling, and crafting. I really enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and my awesome dog. I love living in the city of Pittsburgh as I am not originally from this area. I love adventuring and finding cool places to eat, as well as fun things to do. I am always down for an adventure!

  • When in therapy I like to take the time to build a strong relationship with my client. In order to process everyday life, you need to have that trust with your therapist which is very important to me. It is very important to have an outlet to talk to and someone to just listen with no judgement. I want you to feel open to talk about whatever is on your mind, while also getting support at the same time.

  • I specialize in depression and anxiety, adjusting to major and minor change, processing trauma, building relationships with others as well as yourself, mindfulness, and boundary setting. I like therapy to be something that you enjoy coming to every session and even look forward to going.

  • I am currently available evenings on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. I offer telehealth those days as well, and only in person session on Monday, Thursday, and Friday.

  • I am currently seeing clients Pro-bono as I am in the process of getting my therapeutic license through the state. At some point this will change and will keep clients update of when that would be occurring.

Stevie Gorsuch, LCSW, C-DBT

  • I’m an LCSW who helps people reclaim who they are beneath survival strategies, shame, and expectations. My work is grounded in compassion, clarity, and deep curiosity about what makes each person feel most alive. I’m certified in DBT and weave in ACT and motivational interviewing to support healing and meaningful change. I’ve also begun the process of EMDR training. I bring experience in running groups and am open to family or couples therapy if I assess that I would be an appropriate fit.

    Outside of sessions, I’m a writer, parent, and someone who used to want to be an astronaut—and still kind of does. I’m also neurodivergent and queer, and I know firsthand how powerful it can be to have a space where all parts of you feel welcome. I love jigsaw puzzles, road trips with a good playlist that you can sing along to, and deep conversations that go off track in the best possible way.

  • Sessions with me are a blend of warmth, depth, and straightforward support. I focus on building trust so you feel safe to explore what’s real—no matter how messy or uncertain it feels. My role is to help you figure out what healing looks like for you—not tell you what it should be. I don’t expect you to have it all figured out—I just care that you’re willing to start. You can expect a mix of practical skills, emotional processing, and radical acceptance, all tailored to your needs. I’ll challenge patterns that keep you stuck, but I’ll do it with compassion, humor, and the belief that healing can be collaborative.

  • I enjoy working with:

    • Adolescents

    • Folx in the LGBTQIA+ or queer communities

    • Neurodivergent individuals

    • People navigating perinatal or postpartum transitions

    • Anyone dealing with stress, overwhelm, or feeling “too much”

     If you’re trying to figure out who you are outside of survival mode—or you just want a space where you don’t have to explain yourself all the time—you might feel comfortable here. I also work with couples and families if I believe I’m the right fit for your needs.

  • I offer appointments on:

    • Tuesdays: 10–12, 1–4, 6–8

    • Wednesdays: 9–12, 1–4, 6–8

    • Thursdays: 9–12, 3–4, 6–8

      Occasional Saturday appointments are available. Both virtual and in-person sessions are offered.

  • I currently accept:

    • Allegheny Medicaid (CCBHO, UPMC for You)

    • Medicare (Plans A & B, UPMC for Life)

    • UPMC Commercial plans

    • Highmark

    • Blue Cross/Blue Shield