Meet our South County team

The South County team at Social Sparks is a dynamic blend of individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills, and identities. We recognize the importance of having a well-rounded and versatile team to address the unique needs of each client. This diversity not only enhances the care and support we provide but also allows us to learn from one another.

map of rhode island with south kingstown starred therapy in RI
  • Lauren Bolster, LICSW, CGS Social sparks rhode island therapy services

    Lauren Bolster, LICSW, CGS

    South County Clinical Supervisor | She/Her

    Lauren holds a Masters of Social Work degree from Rhode Island College and specializes in child and adolescent trauma. She is the clinical supervisor of Social Sparks' South County location. With over 10 years of experience Lauren has worked with children and adults from various walks of life, including the LGBTQ+ community, judicial system, and DCYF. Lauren uses person-centered therapy to help clients discover that they hold the power and strength to improve their own lives. Lauren facilitates individual and group counseling using aspects of CBT, DBT, social-emotional learning, and tailors therapy to meet the needs of the individual.

  • Hillery Durning Social sparks rhode island therapy services

    Hillery Durning

    Admin Assistant & Intake Coordinator | She/Her

    Hillery holds a Bachelor's degree in Clinical Mental Health from Southern New Hampshire University and is currently pursuing her Master's degree in the same field. With extensive experience in mental health, she excels in cofacilitating group therapy sessions at Social Sparks, South County, with a focus on a person-centered approach. Grounded in academic knowledge, Hillery adeptly integrates mindfulness and social-emotional wellness into her practice. She is particularly passionate about exploring trauma therapy as part of her ongoing professional development, aiming to expand her expertise and better support clients of all ages.

  • Cassandra Beach, LCSW, CGS Social sparks rhode island therapy services

    Cassandra Beach, LCSW, CGS

    South County Clinician | She/Her

    Cassandra holds a Master's Degree in Social Work from Rhode Island College and a Certificate of Graduate Studies in Child and Adolescent Trauma. She has extensive experience working as a direct support staff for the neurodivergent community and was honored as one of Rhode Island’s Direct Support Professionals of the Year in 2022. Cassandra provides individual and group therapy for children, teens, and young adults. She specializes in working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety Disorders, utilizing social-emotional learning curriculums along with art, movement, and play therapy to enhance therapeutic outcomes.

  • Alexandria Carpenter, LCSW

    Alexandria Carpenter, LCSW

    Clinician | She/Her

    Alex graduated from the University of New England with a BA in Health Science and a Master’s in Social Work. She has over three years of experience working with elementary-aged children in public and special education programs. Previously, she taught social and independence skills to children with disabilities in a community program. Her expertise includes strength-based approaches, understanding adverse childhood trauma, and neurodiversity. Alex designs positive group settings that inspire creativity and mindfulness. She has experience with children with ASD, ADHD, and anxiety. Alex is committed to helping children learn lifelong skills and develop a confident sense of self.

  • Elizabeth Harmon-Lallier

    Elizabeth Harmon-Lallier, LCSW, CCSP

    Clinician | She/Her

    Elizabeth is a graduate of Capella University, where she earned her Master of Social Work degree with honors. With nearly 10 years of experience in behavioral and mental health, she is also certified as a community support professional. Elizabeth’s background includes providing community-based services, navigating social services, working with the Rhode Island Mental Health Court system, and extensive case management. Elizabeth believes in meeting each person where they are and that everyone has the capacity to thrive. She is eager to assist clients in achieving their goals and becoming the best version of themselves.

  • Jenna Harrington South County Clinician Social Sparks RI

    Jenna Gage, LCSW

    South County Clinician | She/Her

    Jenna has a Masters degree in Social Work from Sacred Heart University and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Salve Regina University. Jenna has experience providing individual and group counseling services within a school setting to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She has worked as an ALD Program Leader, promoting social and emotional developmental skills in children. Jenna is committed to promoting individual advocacy in clients by utilizing a strengths-based and solution-focused approach. Jenna is passionate about building strong relationships with clients and is committed to developing strategies to help them reach their goals.

  • Kate Lidestri, MHC, RYT Social sparks rhode island therapy services

    Kate Lidestri, MHC, RYT

    South County Clinician | She/Her

    Kate is a mental health counselor and registered yoga teacher. She holds a Master’s degree in Holistic Counseling from Salve Regina University, along with certificates in Advanced Graduate Studies and Expressive and Creative Arts. With years of experience working with clients, Kate is a skilled and welcoming therapist for both adults and children. She integrates mindfulness, breath work, and body-centered therapy into her approach, providing clients with skills to increase self-awareness and foster self-empowerment. Kate is dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can learn, heal, and grow.

  • Jillian Smith, LMHC-A, NCC Social sparks rhode island therapy services

    Jillian Smith, LMHC-A, NCC

    South County Clinician | She/Her

    Jillian earned her Master’s in School Counseling from Virginia Tech and completed her LMHC-A coursework at Rhode Island College. With over 15 years of experience in public schools, she is a valued MTSS team member. She facilitates social skills groups, individual counseling, and teaches social-emotional learning. Jillian collaborates with educators and advocates for students and families. Her eclectic therapeutic approach meets clients where they are, focusing on those with executive functioning and anxiety issues. She utilizes various clinical methods, including CBT, solution-focused techniques, and mindfulness interventions.

South County Interns

  • Libby Lubera

    Masters of Social Work Intern | She/Her

    Libby is an MSW student at Rhode Island College. Before pursuing a career in social work, she spent 22 years as a professional chef in the hospitality industry. In 2020, she earned her undergraduate degree in Health Studies with a focus on community health from the University of Rhode Island. Currently, she serves as the program manager for the Jane Addams Resource Corporation in Providence. Libby is deeply committed to removing barriers that impact the health and wellbeing of adults of all ages.

Interested in joining our team?