Our Staff
Our staff consists of professional counselors whose education and interests prepare them to offer mental health support and interventions as well as outreach programs relative to a variety of personal, social, and academic-related concerns.
Audra J. Tonero, Executive Director MS Ed, LPC, LCADC
Executive Director, Counseling and Wellness
Holloway Annex 21 (in the same building as the Health Center up the hill from the University Commons)
973-408-3398
[email protected]
The college years can be both exciting and challenging, I find it rewarding to help students move past their barriers to achieve personal success. I approach my clinical work with a comprehensive focus on college development concerns and integrate clinical theories such as interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and person-centered in order to help students explore the connection between their thoughts and experiences.
Rebecca Scotti
Office Manager
Holloway Annex 21 (in the same building as the Health Center up the hill from the University Commons)
973-408-3398
Navigating all the services and resources on campus can be overwhelming and confusing. I can help guide you in the direction you need based on what you’re dealing with at the time. I am usually the first person you come in contact with at the counseling center and am happy to help find the right service for you.
Carol Gernat, PhD
Staff Counselor/Psychologist
Holloway Annex 21 (in the same building as the Health Center up the hill from the University Commons)
973-408-3984
[email protected]
Something I remember from my early counseling training is that counseling psychologists “deal with the messy problems of living.” The reason this has stayed with me, I think, is because so many factors (internal to the self and external in the environment) shape well-being, and I see a good part of my work as connecting non-judgmentally with students so they can tell their own stories, process thoughts and feelings, and heal. I consider myself a generalist, and I have worked with students who present to counseling with a range of concerns such as acute psychological crisis, panic, anxiety, and depression, as well as the effects of trauma, and coping with loss. In the years that I have been at Drew (since 2004), I have become more interested and involved in sexual assault awareness, prevention, and support of survivors. I also have a strong interest in meditation and its use as a stress-reduction tool, and I have conducted open groups on campus focused on mindfulness skills.
Therese Zimmer-Farid, MSW, LCSW, DRCC
Staff Counselor/Social Worker
Holloway Annex 21 (in the same building as the Health Center up the hill from the University Commons)
973-408-3398
[email protected]
As exciting as this time is in one’s life, it can also be stressful and overwhelming. Today’s student is more attuned to the importance of understanding mental health and overall well-being in their life. Together, in an open-minded and non-judgmental atmosphere where you feel heard and supported, we can address depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship or family dynamics; or trauma that may have been experienced and that may be affecting where you are in your life right now. My approach is integrative with attention to Solution-Focus and Cognitive Behavioral therapies, along with a Mindful approach of how to manage your challenges and reclaim your strengths.
James Hanson, M.Ed.
Case Manager
Holloway Annex 21 (in the same building as the Health Center up the hill from the University Commons)
973-408-3156
I was drawn to work in Student Affairs because of my passion for advocating for college students. My own collegiate experience was unique and I had amazing mentors that were able to point me in the right direction. I am here to help by offering guidance and support through the University, the local community, and beyond. I approach my interactions through a holistic perspective, looking at the whole picture rather than just one specific problem. I can help with accountability, goal setting and achievement, as well as setting you up for success both personally and academically. I strive to make the student experience as positive and successful as possible.