Educational Psychologist | Mental Health Entrepreneur | Business Coach for Therapists
I’m Jen Politis — an educational psychologist, licensed professional counselor, and business coach for therapists. I’ve spent over 20 years helping people through life’s hardest seasons — from my early days working in schools as a counselor and psychologist, to now leading Wellness Counseling, a group practice in New Jersey with an incredible team of therapists.
After years of being “in the trenches” myself, I know what it feels like to juggle clients, family, and a growing practice all at once. That’s why I’m passionate about helping both clients and fellow therapists build lives that feel lighter, more connected, and sustainable.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, relationship challenges, and maternal mental health. My style is eclectic and real — rooted in psychodynamic therapy but blended with person-centered, CBT, and even a touch of Jungian work. Translation? I meet you where you are, and together we figure out what’s keeping you stuck and how to move forward.
At my core, I believe connection heals, one connection at a time. That’s what guides both my therapy work and my coaching with other practice owners.
When I’m not working, I’m a mom of three, traveling with my family, shooting hoops, cooking, or reaching for anything with dark chocolate and peanut butter. I love mixing real talk with humor, and I’m just as interested in your messy middle as I am in celebrating your big wins.
Dr. Jennifer M. Politis, PhD
Erika Bugaj, LICSW
Clinical Social Worker | Group Practice Owner | Clinical Supervisor
I’m Erika Bugaj — a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and group practice owner. For more than 20 years, I’ve been walking alongside children, teens, adults, and families through some of life’s toughest transitions. I’m the founder of Dandelion Counseling & Care, a psychotherapy practice in Washington, DC, where I lead an incredible team of therapists who provide both in-person and online therapy to the local community.
Over the years, I’ve found myself equally passionate about supporting other clinicians. I love supervising therapists and MSW students, and I also consult with fellow mental health professionals who are building their own private practices or growing group practices. It’s meaningful work to share what I’ve learned (and the mistakes I’ve made!) with those who are just a few steps behind me on this journey.
I specialize in child, adolescent, and family therapy, perinatal and postpartum mental health, and nature-informed therapy — which sometimes means I get to step out of the office and do therapy right in Rock Creek Park, one of DC’s most beautiful spaces. My style is collaborative and compassionate, rooted in evidence-based practices but always centered around what each client or supervisee truly needs.
At my core, I believe therapy should feel safe, grounded, and transformative — a space where people can bring their whole selves and leave with new insight, resilience, and clarity.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me in DC (my home for 27+ years!) with my two kids, two cats, and one goofy rescue dog. I’m happiest when I’m out in nature, gathering with friends, or finding small ways to bring joy and balance into everyday life.
Dr. Colleen Long, PsyD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Mental Health Entrepreneur
I’m Colleen Long — a licensed clinical psychologist and mental health entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience helping people find clarity through psychological testing and assessment. As the founder and CEO of a bicoastal psychological testing practice, I’ve performed more than 7,500 evaluations for children, teens, and adults — work that has guided thousands of families toward the right diagnoses, treatment plans, and next steps in their mental health journey.
I specialize in comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments for people ages 7 to 85. My expertise includes ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, learning disabilities, and diagnostic clarification. I also provide specialized evaluations, such as pre-operative assessments for bariatric surgery and spinal cord stimulator procedures, and screenings for egg donor and gestational surrogate candidates.
At the heart of my approach is a simple philosophy: you’d never undergo surgery without an X-ray, so why begin therapy or medication without proper testing? I believe accurate assessment is the foundation for effective treatment. Getting clear on the root causes early helps clients avoid years of frustration with interventions that don’t work.
Outside of the testing room, I’ve written three books — Happiness in B.A.L.A.N.C.E., Meditation Medication, and Full From Within. I’ve also shared my expertise with broader audiences as a media contributor for outlets like CNN, HLN, The Discovery Channel, and E!, including regular appearances on On Call with Dr. Drew.
As a psychologist, author, and entrepreneur, I’m passionate about scaling access to quality mental healthcare nationwide. I love mentoring other psychologists and finding creative ways to use technology and innovation to close the gaps in our system.
On the personal side, I’m a mom to three elementary-school-aged kids, which keeps me grounded and on my toes. I love playing piano, studying AI (yes, I’m a bit of a tech nerd), and spending time with my family. At my core, I’m endlessly curious, energetic, and driven to make a difference — qualities that fuel both my professional mission and my personal life.