Meet Our Founder and Staff

Mr. Jim Garvey M.A, LPC/S, NCCBT

Jim is a parent of three children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. He devotes most of his time, energy and effort developing new strategies interventions and programs, to work with this population.  He has a M. A. in applied counseling. He is a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. He has received extensive training in applied Behavioral Analysis and verbal behavior.

Jim also holds a national certification in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and is best known for his contributions in a CBT approach in treating High functioning Autism, Asperger's Syndrome and pervasive Developmental Disorder NOS. He is sought after for professional presentations, consulting, workshops and program development.  Jim is the founder and Director of the Cognitive-Behavioral Clinic 2002 which is recognized for all areas of treatment, program development, summer, Saturday social, after school programs, support groups, training and workshops.

Ms. Challis Russell, MA, LPC/A

Challis Russell is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University. She earned a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and has obtained her LPCA in South Carolina. She has served a diverse population that includes: children, adolescents, adults, and families. 

Challis’s employment record demonstrates a wealth of experience and involvement in the education and mentoring of children and adults, many of whom have faced immense environmental and economic challenges. She completed her practicum working with foster children and their families. Her responsibilities have included one-on-one counseling, leading educational groups, leading therapy group, writing and implementing behavior intervention plans, and meeting with parents/guardians to discuss their children's progress. Aside from counseling,  she is also an adult education teacher bilingual in Spanish.