Counseling CenterStaff
Brian Petersen
Director of the Counseling Center
petersen@hws.edu
Brian Petersen is a licensed clinical psychologist. Born in Buffalo and raised in Brockport, he has worked in college counseling centers since 2007. Prior to coming to HWS, Brian was the Director of Counseling and Psychological Services at Ithaca College and was the Associate Director at the Pace University CC in NYC. He is committed to the public health goal of creating total community ownership of a culture of positive mental health and wellness. You will see him around campus talking to students, faculty and staff about how we all can contribute to, and support each other, in that endeavor. As a counselor, Brian offers expertise in working with grief and bereavement (including paranormal experiences), artistic craft development, sports performance, depression/anxiety, suicidality, and the solving of existential dilemmas. He has played drums for a variety of bands and is a lover of all music, constantly searching for new sounds. An avid reader, he is drawn to science fiction/fantasy and dark crime. He usually has at least one or two international soccer games cued up on the DVR. And most importantly, he is a devoted cat dad to Lia!
Jennifer Hogan
Part Time Staff Counselor
hogan@hws.edu
Jennifer Hogan is a licensed clinical psychologist. She completed her doctorate in 1993 at Widener University and concurrently completed a school psychology curriculum through Widener University and Bryn Mawr College. In addition to her work at the Counseling Center, she serves as a mental health consultant to Geneva Head Start. She utilizes an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating psychodynamic theories, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness techniques, and interpersonal therapy principles. Her professional interests include the developmental challenges of children and young adults, anxiety, depression, and ethics in the therapeutic process.
Katy Wolfe Kelliher '11
Staff Counselor
wolfekelliher@hws.edu
Katy Wolfe Kelliher graduated from HWS in 2011 with a BA in English and Africana Studies. She completed her MSW in 2014 at Washington University in St. Louis. Katy is a licensed master social worker and specializes in trauma work. She is certified and trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, and 5-Narrative trauma, and is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) from the International Association of Trauma Professionals. She is client-focused and results-driven. Prior to joining the Counseling Center, Katy worked at Eastern New Mexico University's Counseling Services Department as a Wellness Counselor, providing individual therapy for students as well as outreach services for ENMU's campus and the greater community.
Mary Martini-Hausner
Staff Counselor
martinihausner@hws.edu
Mary Martini-Hausner is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). She completed her master’s degree in 2011 from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh. Since completing her degree, she has worked in private practice and in higher education. She has over ten years of experience working in a college counseling center and utilizes her training in trauma-informed care, grief work and solution-focused therapy in her work with students. Her professional interests are in creative arts therapy and animal assisted therapy.
Kathleen Pullano
Staff Counselor
pullano@hws.edu
Kathleen Pullano is a licensed clinical social worker. She completed a master's degree in 1996 at Syracuse University. In addition to her work at the Counseling Center, she operates a private practice in Geneva, N.Y. With a background in community mental heath, Ms. Pullano integrates psychodynamic, dialectical, cognitive behavior and interpersonal approaches in her work. She takes special interest in the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, stress, Womens' and LGBTQ issues.
Marsha Whitley
Part Time Staff Counselor
Marsha Whitley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in behavioral health. She earned her Master of Social Work from Syracuse University and has held senior leadership roles overseeing community-based and residential services, in addition to her ongoing clinical work. Alongside her role at HWS, Marsha maintains a private practice in Geneva, providing culturally responsive, trauma-informed therapy both in person and virtually. She also serves as a counseling consultant with the Partnership for Ontario County, offering support to children, adolescents, and adults through a strengths-based and community-centered approach. Marsha is passionate about equity and access in mental health care and is committed to creating safe, affirming spaces where students can explore identity, resilience and well-being.
Velevia Estrada
Office Coordinator
Velevia Estrada serves as the Office Coordinator for the HWS Counseling Center. A Geneva native, she earned her degree in Business from Finger Lakes Community College. Early in her career, Velevia worked as a Family Advocate for Healthy Families of the Finger Lakes, where she focused on strengthening family relationships, supporting early childhood development, and helping families build healthier, more nurturing environments. Her commitment to community well-being led her to serve as a homelessness and addiction advocate across the western United States, where she helped launch community centers dedicated to providing stability, recovery and hope. Over the past 15 years, Velevia has built a successful career in hospitality and employee relations, consistently fostering meaningful connections and creating positive environments. She brings that same warmth, dedication, and sense of home to HWS, helping students feel welcomed, supported, and cared for as they navigate their college journey.