Meet Our Team

Despina Mitchell M.S, LMFT graduated from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry in 2006. She has been treating patients for 20 years in the Rochester community. Throughout her years working with individuals, couples, and families, she has had the opportunity to practice in multiple clinic and community based settings before starting her private practice in 2013.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist she is dedicated to helping couples enhance their relationships through improved communication and increased emotional, physical, and sexual intimacy. She specializes in addressing complex issues such as problematic communication patterns, infidelity, betrayal, and trust concerns, guiding individuals and couples to break negative patterns and cycles that contribute to ongoing conflict. While many couples initially seek therapy to improve communication, Despina understands that deeper struggles often lie beneath the surface, requiring attention to foster a more profound connection.

In her practice, she utilizes an integrative therapy approach, applying various theories and modalities that have proven effective in creating and maintaining healthy relationships (Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Imago Relationship Therapy, Relational Life Therapy and Internal Family Systems to name a few). She creates a safe, nonjudgmental environment where individuals and couples can openly discuss all facets of their relationships, including the intimate aspects. Together, she explores the barriers that impede psychological, emotional, and sexual intimacy, recognizing that feeling disconnected can hinder vulnerability and secure attachment. She works collaboratively with her patients to define what meaningful change looks like for them and supports them in achieving their goals. 

She is a clinical fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. In addition, she is certified in medical family therapy and proudly serves as the fundraising chair for the Associate Board of Golisano Children's Hospital, reflecting her commitment to community and advocacy.

Whether you are navigating challenges in your relationship or seeking personal growth, She is available to support you on your journey toward a more connected and satisfying life.

Ali is a Marriage and Family Therapist working under the direct supervision of Despina Mitchell, LMFT. She completed her Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Syracuse University and has been with Eastside Marriage & Family Therapy since December 2022. Her therapeutic experience includes work with individuals and couples helping them to gain tools to improve communication, navigate life transitions, set boundaries, heal infidelity and resentment, enhance intimacy, rebuild trust, manage emotions, resolve conflict, cope with anxiety & depression, and address general individual and relational turmoil.

It's common to feel stuck and overwhelmed at certain times in our lives when we catch ourselves in cycles that we can't seem to break out of. Ali helps clients to identify and change patterns so they can find a renewed sense of connection, confidence, and wellbeing. She takes a warm and non-judgmental approach while also being direct and holding clients accountable as they work collaboratively towards growth and healing.

When working with couples, Ali provides compassion and structure so both partners can share their experiences openly. Respect and accountability are key aspects of the process as each partner is encouraged to take an honest look at their thoughts and actions and begin making changes for the good of the relationship. Ali uses a variety of theoretical frameworks to guide clients in a way that best fits each individual, couple, and family. Therapy sessions are designed to provide you with insight and tools that you can begin using immediately to create lasting change in order to build the life and relationship you've always wanted.

Drew is a Limited Permit Marriage and Family Therapist at Eastside Marriage & Family Therapy working under the direct supervision of Despina Mitchell, LMFT. He completed his Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. Additionally, he holds a Doctorate of Executive Leadership from St. John Fisher University and a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Leadership from Medaille University. He has over 15 years of experience in higher education teaching communication and leadership. His clinical training began at Strong Family Therapy Services located in the University of Rochester Medical Center. Drew also trained at URMC Mental Health and Gender Wellness at GOG.

Drew’s therapeutic experience includes work with couples and individuals on issues such as communication challenges, family dynamics, mistrust in relationships, sexual concerns, decision making, goal setting, pre-martial planning, and adjusting to new stages of life.

Drew understands that clients don’t make the decision to come to therapy lightly. Perhaps you’ve been trying to make changes in your life but just feel stuck. Maybe you and your partner are experiencing a period of conflict or questioning your future. Perhaps you’ve experienced a season of change or loss and don’t know what to do next. No matter what your circumstance, Drew approaches each client with kindness and compassion. It is very important to him to create a safe environment where you feel heard and understood. Drew works with clients to develop goals for therapy and guides them through a process that adapts to each person’s needs.