Meet the Team

Dr. Key, DSW, MSW, LCSW

I am a Doctorate level Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I utilize connection and the therapeutic relationship to create a supportive space to promote healing for those in need. I am the founder of Key to Change Counseling Services Corp., which began from very humble beginnings in 2014 shortly after my 3rd child was born. This group practice is small enough to foster one on one connection and achieve a level of excellence that I believe is only right in the mental health field, yet big enough that we continue to grow and adapt to the needs of those we serve. I have intentionally built a team of diverse professionals who are passionate, ambitious and driven. I lead with compassion and have always taken a servant leadership approach to building the foundation of staff therapists that I have coined “TeamKey.” 

Growing up, I knew I would find myself in a role in which I could make a difference in the world and help those around me. I worked hard and trusted God. I pursued my passion by attending Monmouth University where I received my Bachelor's and Master's degree in Social Work. In college I was invited to a Christian church service that completely changed the trajectory of my life. I then went on to receive my Doctorate degree from the University of Southern California. I became a Clinical Supervisor post grad at Rutgers University. In a full circle way, I have been back at Monmouth University in an adjunct Professor role since 2021 where I get to lead & teach undergraduate and graduate students in the School of Social Work. I also offer Christian counseling services as I am rooted in my faith and believe in being a light to others. I am committed to being the therapist, professor, mentor and supervisor I always needed. 

Team Key

Kathleen

Alexis

Simone

Mia

Natalie

Dr. Key

Alexis Appezzato, LPC

Alexis is skilled in treating clients who are feeling “stuck” and looking for a new beginning. She believes that every individual has their own story, set of circumstances, and struggles and likes to work collaboratively with the client to understand what they are experiencing and why; and derive from their own strengths to create positive long-lasting change.

Alexis is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of NJ and earned her Master’s in Education and Counseling from Monmouth University. She has a background working in higher education, working with the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC populations, and those struggling with life transitions or social struggles. She specializes in various treatment options including Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Practices.

Through the group private practice, Key to Change Counseling Services Corp., her goal is to support and empower the individual on their journey towards increased connection with their mind, body, and interpersonal relationships. She approaches clients where they are with a down to earth, non-judgmental, and affirming approach.

Kathleen DosReis, LAC

Kathleen has spent the past decade working with children and young adults across various settings, including schools, in-home environments, clinics, and private practice, with a particular focus on counseling at-risk youth. With a multicultural background herself, Kathleen deeply understands the importance of culturally sensitive interventions and brings a data-driven, compassionate approach to her work. She provides counseling support in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a diverse range of clients.

Kathleen offers a blend of trained clinical practice and sound biblical counseling, addressing a variety of needs including life adjustments, immigration, depression, anxiety, trauma, and marital support. She firmly believes in the redemptive work of Christ and grounds all her practice in the consistency and truth of Scripture more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Simone Graham, LSW

Simone supports clients through a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, navigating relationships, negative self-image, identity-related experiences, and life transitions. Simone’s practice emphasizes warmth and connection, making therapy a more inviting experience. She blends creativity with therapy, using holistic approaches in her sessions. Whether it’s incorporating art, nature, games, or mindfulness practices, she engages clients in a way that resonates with them personally. This allows for a more dynamic and expressive exploration of thoughts and feelings, fostering deeper insights and promoting healing and personal growth. By fostering open dialogue and utilizing creative approaches, she helps clients explore their thoughts and feelings, and not only develop personalized coping strategies, but also uncover and address issues at their roots for sustainable change.

Simone is a trauma informed Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in the state of NJ and earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Monmouth University. Simone’s diverse experiences, including crisis counseling, behavioral therapy, and hospital case management, enables her to connect with clients from all backgrounds and understand the challenges they face. With a strong commitment to cultural humility, she honors each client’s unique experiences and perspectives, creating a space where individuals feel valued, understood, and supported in their healing journey.

Simone helps clients connect with their personal narratives in meaningful ways, that lead to sustainable well-being. This transformative process leads to healthier relationships with others, oneself, and a more fulfilling, balanced, peaceful, and happy life.

Natalie Lowe, LCSW

As a licensed practicing therapist, Natalie provides a safe space for clients to identify, learn, and apply appropriate boundaries. For the past five years, she has helped adolescents and young adults find a soothing space to express themselves safely.  Natalie helps clients reach their therapeutic goals by processing their thoughts while they are experiencing difficult times

As a former educator, Natalie has learned that everyone has a story that impacts their lives in a defining way. This perspective allows her to see and feel the needs of her clients. Natalie’s compassion and empathy towards those in need of support was the catalyst that led her to pursue a career in social work. In addition to her work at Key2 she has continued her work in education as a middle school counselor.

Natalie graduated Magna Cum Laude from Widener University with a Master’s in Social Work. Upon graduation, Natalie was afforded the opportunity to work with couples, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and extensive work in grief.  She understands there is no singular approach that works for every client.  She uses Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral approaches, narrative, person centered and guided meditation.  She continues to educate herself on emerging therapies to provide the most effective treatment to her clients. 

Natalie is an LCSW with active licensure in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware.  Natalie resides with her husband of 30 years in their home in New Jersey.

Mia, Social Media Manager

Mia is bringing her passion for mental health advocacy and wellness to the forefront of our digital presence at Key 2. A Jersey native, Mia resides at the Jersey Shore, and is currently pursuing her studies at Villanova University, focusing on Business, with a concentration in Leadership and Marketing.

With a strong commitment to promoting mental health awareness, Mia understands the importance of making counseling services accessible and relatable. Her role involves creating meaningful online content that engages and informs the community about mental wellness, self-care, and the benefits of professional support. Mia is excited to be part of TeamKey, helping spread the message that mental health matters for everyone.

When she’s not managing our social platforms, Mia enjoys working out, cooking, and spending quality time with friends. Her passion for health and wellness is reflected in her lifestyle, as she believes that mental and physical well-being go hand in hand.

Mia is proud to be part of a diverse team of passionate individuals that prioritizes mental health, and she looks forward to helping others on their journey toward healing and self-care.

Join Team Key

Whether you are looking for a position as a Staff Therapist or looking for a Clinical Supervisor, we’d love to learn more about you!

Us: We offer a unique wellness experience by providing the whole person holistic care. 

You: Passionate and have a willingness to learn. You have innovative ideas and a fresh perspective to offer. You have relevant experience and skills to bring to the table. The position aligns with your skills and aspirations. You want to pay it forward in the field.