Meet The Espyr Clinical Team

Norman Winegar LCSW, CEAP

Chief Clinical Officer

Growing up in a poor community, I noticed the obvious despair experienced by many disadvantaged people. That led me to the clinical social work profession with its values of respect for the dignity and worth of all people and advocacy for social and economic justice. At Espyr, I’m a part of a force multiplier pursuing these objectives. That’s because Espyr touches so many lives in so many different and positive ways. Additionally, I’m grateful to be able to not only impact the lives of individuals and families, but also to help work organizations be more productive, safer, and healthier.

Tennille Smith LPC, NCC, CMHC, CCT

Organizational Services Department Manager

I have worked with diverse populations of clients, from young adults to adolescents and adults. My areas of expertise included anger management group counseling and substance abuse issues in outpatient psychiatric services. I joined Espyr in early March 2019 and have worked in multiple roles. I started in a position completing clinical intakes, assessments, and Talk Now (immediate telephonic clinical care) in support of employees and their eligible family members that contact Espyr for assistance. I’ve met incredible people here at Espyr and enjoy working with my team. 

 

Elizabeth (Liz) Bonét LCSW, CEA

Clinical Director, On-Site Services

Having experienced a mental illness in my family, I wanted to pursue a career in the mental health field so I could do my best to help others. I learned about Employee Assistance Programs through my undergraduate Social Work Consortium. I was very impressed with the logic of helping employees and their families who would then turn out to be better employees to the managers who provided the service – a win-win for everyone! I knew I wanted to be a part of that world. Espyr has been my main place of work for over 25 years. The company has grown into a behavioral health company of which I am very proud to be a part! Helping all reach their potential is why I am at Espyr and what drives me.

Laura Bucco LPC, CRC

Clinical Director

My need to aid those struggling began when an elementary schoolmate learned he was not being promoted to the next grade. He was confused and devastated. While our classmates were out playing, I couldn’t leave his side. He was in pain. Although I didn’t know how to comfort him, I wasn’t going to let him be in this sadness alone. This inclination to help those struggling continued to be a common theme in my choices. So, when it came time to decide on a career path, counseling was an easy choice. Helping people to work through their problems, handle stressful situations and feel better about themselves is part of my core. And while I chose this profession to help others, along the way, I’ve met the most incredible people with resilience and determination at levels I couldn’t fathom. I consider it an honor to continue to do the work I love with my team at Espyr.

Jennifer Pinos

Member Care Manager

I stumbled upon the social work profession as a teenager when my grandfather was in hospice. Even though my family's first language is not English, witnessing how the social worker was still a strong source of support and guidance in helping my family navigate this life-changing event in our lives, drew me to the profession. The social work profession has allowed me the privilege of aiding and collaborating with people when it is needed the most and celebrating in their successes. Espyr’s mission aligns with my fundamental beliefs as a social worker while continuing to explore a variety of ways I can influence change and sustain success.

Lauren Waterworth

Health Coaching Program Manager

I’ve dedicated much of my life to swimming competitively and being an athlete.  It has made me appreciate the role a coach can play in someone’s life.  This is what inspired me to pursue a career in coaching and to develop my motto, “I want it to matter that we met”.  My passion is helping others create the lives they want through meaningful change.  I believe this is achieved through connection, education, and intention.  I’m excited to be part of the Espyr team and believe we are building a company that values people and their potential.  

Winston-et Brobbey LMSW

Organizational Services Manager Team Lead

I have worked in the Workforce Development industry, focusing on Human and Mental Health for 20 years. My work has centered around counseling, training individuals, and partnering with employers to stabilize their workforce. This includes cultivating strategic partnerships with Human and Social Service Agencies

Dorothy Paige LPC

Organizational Services Manager

My personal philosophy is to support individuals in developing a sense of self-worth and strong coping skills; treatment modalities are eclectic and based on individual and personal needs. I have gained experience in vast settings; I served as a Consultant/Counselor for the Department of Defense, including all branches of the military.

Kaitlyn Clower LMSW

Organizational Services Manager

I joined the social work field because I have a passion for working with children and families, which is also a reason why I worked with the Division of Family and Children Services for several years as a Case Manager and a Supervisor. Through DFCS, I have experience working in frontline case management in investigations, family preservation, and foster care.

Fredessa Figueroa MAMFT, LPC

Organizational Services Manager

She is thankful that her mom made sure she exposed her as a child to her Spanish roots by taking her to live in La Ceiba, Honduras, at the young age of two. I use Cognitive-Behavioral therapy to explore, address, and challenge underlying issues causing distress and maladaptive behavior. As a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor, her approach to counseling is a holistic perspective (emotional, physical, spiritual, & relational).