About Our Team
Groundbreaking leaders -- diverse fields -- Connection-based
The Center for Connection has gathered knowledgeable, dedicated practitioners from various fields—psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy, neuropsychology, educational therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, parent education, assistive technology—with each practitioner offering a holistic perspective, grounded in the science of interpersonal neurobiology. Individuals and families who visit will receive multidisciplinary treatment that is consistent, well informed, relationally-based, and always aimed at helping them thrive. We work with infants, kids, teens, adults, couples, and families, and always welcome new clients.
Click the photos below to learn more about our team members.
Leadership & Administration
Tina Payne Bryson, LCSW, PhD
Founder and Executive Director
Deborah Buckwalter, PhD
Director of Wellbeing
Scott Bryson, PhD
Chief Financial Officer
Maura Cook
Director of Client Relations
Hanna Novak, CCC-SLP
Director of the CFC
Ayla Dillard
Director of Communications
William Lacey, PhD,
Clinical Director of the CFC-SB
Jasmyne Gilbert
Financial Administrator
Annalise Kordell, LCSW,
Co-Director of the Mental Health Division
Jennifer Lovers, LMFT
Co-Director of the Mental Health Division
Cathy Schaefer, PhD
Director of the Assessment Division
Orli Lahav, BCET
Director of the Educational Care Division
Desiree Misrachi, CCC-SLP
Director of the Speech and Language Therapy Division
Amanda Staples, OT
Co-Director of the CFCN & Occupational Therapy Division
Olivia Martinez-Hauge, OT
Co-Director of the CFCN & Occupational Therapy Division
Infant, Child, and Adolescent Mental Health
play therapy, individual psychotherapy, dyadic therapy
Learn more about infant, child, and adolescent mental health by clicking below.
Adult and Couples Psychotherapy
Learn more about adult and couples psychotherapy by clicking below.
Speech & Language Therapy
Learn more about speech and language therapy by clicking below.
Occupational Therapy
Learn more about occupational therapy by clicking below.
Educational Therapy & Educational Support
Learn more about educational therapy and educational support by clicking below.
Neuropsychological, Psychological, & Developmental Assessments
Consulting Psychologists
Learn more about neuropsychological, psychological, and developmental assessments by clicking below.
Parenting Support and Consultations
Connect with Our Team Today
We are proud to bring our team of therapists and practitioners together under one roof. We are conveniently located in Pasadena, California, and welcome requests for a confidential consultation. Simply click the button below and complete our basic intake form. We'll handle the rest.
