About Us
For Individuals, Couples & Families
Ascend Treatment & Wellness Center provides compassionate, personalized care to support mental and emotional well-being. Our comprehensive services include evidence-based therapies tailored to individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re navigating life’s stressors, overcoming addiction issues, or seeking personal growth, our team is here to guide you toward healing and resilience.
At Ascend Treatment and Wellness Center we believe that each client’s treatment is unique. As you evolve through your treatment, we collaborate with you to modify your treatment plan to meet your needs as you grow.
Our staff has over 60 years of combined experience treating an array of behavioral health problems. We have chosen to be part of the Ascend team because we believe mental health is vital to living a full and vibrant life and we want to help people achieve this by being the premier provider of accessible and affordable behavioral health services.
We would be honored to assist you on your path to wellness.
today to learn more about what we offer.
Our Team
Hi, I’m Anthony
Polito
LCSW, LCADC | Executive Director
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over 25 years of experience, I have witnessed firsthand the complex interplay of biology, psychology, and environmental and social factors in addiction and mental health. Yet, I have also seen the remarkable resilience of individuals in recovery—those who confront their challenges head-on and develop the skills needed to build fulfilling, healthy lives.
As a client-centered and skills-based therapist, I believe my role is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space where clients feel heard and supported. Utilizing evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Positive Psychology, I help individuals recognize and harness their inherent strengths to create meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to empower clients with the tools they need to navigate life with confidence and well-being.
Hello, I am Penny
Prosperi
LCSW, LCADC | Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Alcohol & Drug Counselor
With over 25 years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment, I have worked in a variety of settings, including the State of New Jersey, hospitals, mental health centers, and substance use treatment facilities. I am deeply committed to a strength-based, holistic approach, believing that every individual has the capacity for growth and healing. For me, it is a privilege to support clients on their journey to wellness.
In addition to my clinical experience, I also serve as an adjunct professor of Social Work at Seton Hall University in South Orange, helping to educate future mental health professionals and contribute to shaping the field’s future.
Hey, it’s Jessica
Fewer
LAC | Licensed Associate Counselor
After earning my master’s degree in counselor education, I have dedicated my career to helping children, adolescents, and their parents navigate life’s challenges in a collaborative way. I believe that every client has a unique set of strengths and needs, which is why I take a personalized approach to treatment, tailoring therapy to best support each individual.
Utilizing evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), I strive to create a supportive, empowering environment where clients can develop healthy coping skills and achieve meaningful growth.
Hello, I am Lee Ann
Cianci
LPC, LCADC, ACS, CCS | Clinician & Community Outreach Coordinator
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), I bring over 20 years of experience working with adults and adolescents facing substance use and mental health challenges. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Positive Psychology, helping clients tap into their inner strength and create meaningful, lasting change.
Beyond clinical practice, my experience extends to community-based nonprofit organizations and hospital-based programs, where I have been involved in direct client care, staff supervision, program administration, and leadership. This diverse background allows me to provide a well- rounded, client-centric approach that supports both individual growth and broader change.
Hi! I’m Corynn
Robinson
MSW, LSW | Master of Social Work & Licensed Social Worker
Through my academic background in English Literature, I developed a profound understanding of the human experience. This exploration led me to pursue a more meaningful career path, culminating in my becoming a licensed social worker. My unique perspective allows me to deeply understand human nature and motivation, which allows me to help others navigate the challenges that hinder their path to fulfilling life.
Central to my practice is the belief that every individual deserves to feel genuinely heard and understood. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), to help clients overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
Through a collaborative and empowering therapeutic process, I am committed to walking alongside my clients on their journey towards self-discovery, healing, and growth.