About LiftWell

Our Foundation & Philosophy

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

A Comprehensive Approach to Healing

Our treatment model is built on the foundation of systemic theory, which views individuals within the context of their larger systems, be it family, community, or society. LiftWell integrates various treatment modalities, including innovative therapies like RO-DBT, traditional practices like CBT and DBT, and experiential therapies that address both mental health issues and eating disorders. We are dedicated to providing personalized care that respects the dignity and unique challenges of each client, supporting them through their recovery with compassion and understanding.

A Sustainable Model for Recovery

At LiftWell, we embrace the philosophy of life-integrated treatment as a cornerstone of our care. This approach allows clients to heal while staying connected to their natural support systems and engaging with the realities of daily life. By recovering in the context of their everyday environment, clients can consistently practice and refine their skills, strengthening their progress in real time.

Our model minimizes disruption, ensuring that transitions between PHP, IOP, and outpatient care are seamless and supportive, without the trauma of leaving home or disconnecting from loved ones. With a low client-to-clinician ratio and access to Recovery Mentors—offering real-time guidance and serving as a bridge between clients, families, and their care team—LiftWell ensures every client’s journey is personalized, sustainable, and deeply rooted in their life.

Inclusivity at LiftWell

LiftWell is an inclusive program, serving all genders, ethnicities, diagnoses, cultures, and religions. We are firmly Health At Every Size (HAES™) informed and take a non-diet approach to treatment. Our facility is designed with size-inclusive seating and recognizes that eating disorders occur with equal frequency in individuals of all body sizes.

We are also proud to be an LGBTQ+ and allies recognized safe space. At LiftWell, we identify rather than compare, believing that our shared humanity is what binds us together. Interpersonal relating, shared support, mutual empathy, and bearing witness to one another’s experiences are healing, transformational acts that are at the heart of our care.

  • Mary Dobson, MA, LMFT, CEDS

    Mary Dobson, MA, LMFT, CEDS

    FOUNDER & CEO

  • Andrea Ciarlelli, MA, LMFT

    Andrea Ciarlelli, MA, LMFT, Licensed Body Positive Facilitator

    CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

  • Samantha Stevens, LPC

    Samantha Stevens, LPC

    PROGRAM DIRECTOR, ADULT PROGRAMS

  • Maria Cimina, LPC-A, MSEd

    Maria Cimina, LPC-A, MSEd

    PROGRAM DIRECTOR, ADOLESCENT PROGRAMS

  • Kelsey Riesbeck, RD

    Kelsey Riesbeck, RD

    DIRECTOR OF DIETARY SERVICES

  • Dr Deborah Lipschitz MD

    Dr Deborah Lipschitz MD

    MEDICAL DIRECTOR, ADULT PROGRAMS

  • 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

  • Danielle Verboven, LPCA

    Danielle Verboven, LPCA

    DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS

  • Audrey Fox

    Audrey Fox, BA

    ADMISSIONS COORDINATOR

  • Morgan Sclafani

    Morgan Sclafani

    DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION

  • Dr Mark Beitel, PhD

    Dr Mark Beitel, PhD

    NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST

  • Melissa Redmond, MA, CMHC, LPC

    Melissa Redmond, MA, CMHC, LPC

    THERAPIST

  • Niyosha Arthur, MA, LMFTA

    Niyosha Arthur, MA, LMFTA

    THERAPIST

  • Megan Freyer, MA, LCSW

    Megan Freyer, MA, LCSW

    THERAPIST

  • Christine Sacane, MA, LCSW

    Christine Sacane, MA, LCSW

    THERAPIST

  • Anthony Cernera, M. Ed.

    Anthony Cernera, M. Ed.

    EMDR THERAPIST

  • Allison Cooke

    Allison Cooke, MSW Candidate, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor

    RECOVERY MENTOR AND BODY POSITIVE COUNSELOR

  • Halley Ceglia Terrell, LCSW, LICSW

    Halley Ceglia Terrell, LCSW, LICSW

    YOGA THERAPIST

  • Kristie Shannon, Nutritionist

    Kristie Shannon

    NUTRITIONIST

  • Kimberly Jane Lake, MSN, FNP-BC

    Kimberly Jane Lake, MSN, FNP-BC

    MEDICAL CONSULTANT

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.

REACH OUT TODAY

Why LiftWell?

LiftWell is more than a treatment center—it’s a community resource for healing, grounded in the heart of Westport. We understand that seeking a higher level of care doesn’t have to mean leaving the support and familiarity of home. By offering expert-designed IOP and PHP programs locally, we ensure that clients and families can receive comprehensive, trauma-informed care while staying connected to their community.

Our 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.

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