Meet Our team

Andrew Ward, LICSW

Executive Director

He/Him/His

Andy received his Masters Degree in Social Work from the Boston University School of Social Work and following this completed a year of study in Family Systems Treatment. He has experience working in outreach and clinic-based programs which specialize in treatment with individuals suffering with Post Traumatic Stress, and substance use in addition to providing forensic evaluations for the Juvenile Courts. He has served on local non-profits and licensing sponsored Boards which support recovery and rehabilitation. Andy has provided training and consultation to a variety of community programs.

Catherine Harvey, LICSW

Associate Director

She/Her/Hers

Catherine received her Master's Degree in Social Work in 2017 from Simmons College with a specialization in Mental Health and Substance Use. Prior to working at the Collaborative, Catherine completed her clinical internships in a therapeutic high school as well as at the Stanley Street Treatment and Resources (SSTAR). Catherine’s earlier work included work with adolescents and young adults in residential treatment and a permanent supportive housing program providing direct care services and case management support. Catherine provides individual and group therapy at the Collaborative. Catherine’s work at the Center focuses on helping adolescents and adults struggling with Post Traumatic Stress, substance use and mood disorders.

Quinlan Taylor

Staff Clinician

He/Him/His

Quinlan received his Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine in 2023 from the Boston University School of Medicine. Prior to working at the Collaborative, Quinlan served as an intern at Arbour Hospital’s Dual Diagnosis Partial Hospitalization Program and on the Boston Emergency Services Team (BEST). Quinlan’s earlier training experiences include the trauma-informed care of preschool-aged children, provision of behavioral healthcare service(s) in special education settings, and fighting of mental health stigma through community outreach programs. Quinlan now provides both individual and group therapy services at the Collaborative. His work at the Center focuses on helping clients across the lifespan who struggle with complex trauma, substance use disorders, and/or mood disorders. 

Matt Conti

Staff Clinician

He/Him/His

Matt received his master’s degree in social work from Boston College School of Social Work with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Families.  Previously, Matt did a year of clinical training at Mass College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences counseling services office helping emerging adults cope with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.  Matt also trained at Pine Street Inn’s Men’s stabilization program running groups and helping clients in early stages of recovery. Before receiving his MSW, Matt spent 13 years working in a high school as a dean, advisor, and teaching.  His work as an educator made him passionate about helping people cope effectively and thrive through whatever life may bring.

Alex Sullivan

Staff Clinician

She/Her/Hers

Alexandra received her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Fordham University in 2024. Before working at the Collaborative, Alexandra interned at Ally Mental Health provided individual counseling for adults and adolescents focusing on anxiety, depression, and any other mental health issues. Her previous experience includes working with children and older adults. Alexandra provides both individual and group therapy for adults and adolescents struggling with any mental health challenges, Post Traumatic Stress, and substance use.

Judana Bennett

Nurse Practicioner

She/Her/Hers

Judana received her Masters Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from Regis College and following this completed a year fellowship in an Integrated Substance Use Disorder Training Program at MGH. She has experiencing in working in various detox programs and clinic-based programs which specialize in treatment with individuals suffering with psychiatric diagnosis, and substance use disorders. Judana's earlier work included working with students from K1-12th grade as a school nurse providing direct care, collaborating with teachers, parents, and other staff members. Judana's work at the Center focuses on supporting psychopharmacological programing, making referrals for non-psychiatric needs, and collaborating with clinicians, case mangers, and outpatient providers. 

Theresa Johnson

Case Manager

She/Her/Hers

Theresa Johnson was born and raised in the Boston, Ma area. Theresa joined the collaborative in February 2024. Theresa Johnson is a passionate and experienced case Manager/peer specialist with over 10 years of clinical experience in providing comprehensive support to individuals and families facing addiction and mental health challenges. Strong communication skills and a proven ability to effectively problem-solve in high-pressure situations. Adept at building positive relationships with clients, collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to address diverse client needs and to achieve favorable outcomes. Enthusiastic about utilizing her skills and expertise to positively impact clients' lives at an organization committed to promoting well-being and empowerment.

Patty Collins

Administrative Assistant

She/Her/Hers

Patty joined the Collaborative in April of 2017, bringing many years of administrative and clerical experience. Originally from South Boston, Patty is connected with the community and excited to return in this capacity.

Gwen Ford

Development Specialist

She/Her/Hers

Gwen joined the Collaborative Center in March of 2019. She earned her Master’s Degree in Public Policy from Tufts University in 2017 and is a Certified Grant Writer. Gwen has been engaged with non-profits since 2012 and has experience with event planning, fundraising, and community outreach.

Board Officers

Ed Foley, Board President

Jon Cronin, Vice President

Caitlin Beresin, Treasurer

Michael Kineavy, Clerk

Board Members

Caitlin Beresin, Andrea Flaherty, Kieran McAllen, Joshua McFadden, Brian Nee, Kristin Nee, Robert Pacitti, Cassandra Paolillo, John Parillo, Robert Sances, Bethany Serota, Andrew Ward, Peter Welch