Kaitlin Hens-Greco (she, her)
Clinical Director
Favorite emotion to feel: Connected
Kaitlin is delighted to come full circle and return to the Friendship Circle community!
Her journey began in 2011 at the Northumberland office. Since 2013, she has worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in various Pittsburgh Public Schools. Currently, Kaitlin serves as Director of The Beacon and maintains a private practice at Alliance Therapy Center, where she works with both individuals and couples.
Outside of her work, you can find Kaitlin enjoying life in Highland Park with her husband Josh, and their two little ones, Alessi and Pavel.
Sam Gallagher (she, they)
Program Manager
Favorite emotion to feel: Curious
Sam graduated from Allegheny College in 2021 with a degree in Biochemistry and Political Science, and has since worked in the nonprofit sector. Sam joined The Beacon after completing a year of service with the Pittsburgh Urban Leadership Service Experience (PULSE), where she worked in Community Organizing & Engagement in Oakland.
Sam is passionate about creating a sense of community that uplifts others and meets people exactly where they are. She’s a strong believer that people deserve to be seen and heard at every stage of their life, and that they should have the tools to care for themselves and others as well.
When not at The Beacon, you can find Sam practicing yoga, cooking and baking, contra dancing, crafting, and spending time outdoors.
Rachael Lynch (she, her)
Member Manager
Favorite emotion to feel: Grateful
Rachael graduated from Temple University with her Bachelors degree in Social Work and went on to receive her Masters of Social Work from the University in Pittsburgh. She has had the opportunity to work in individual and family therapy, mental health and womens’ empowerment groups, and holistic care for at-risk young men. Through her Behavior Health Scholars Program Fellowship, she started working at The Beacon in August 2023.
Rachael is passionate about providing quality accessible mental health care to marginalized populations. She recognizes the great need for connection, community, and belonging and hopes to be able to help people find that through her work.
When not at The Beacon, you can find Rachael spending time outside, making art, and hanging out with family and friends!
Katey Simon (she, her)
Clinical Program Staff
Favorite Emotion to feel: Inspired
Katey graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) in 2014 with a Bachelors of Arts in Education and went on to work as a highschool art teacher within the city of Pittsburgh. After 7 years in education, Katey went back to IUP to pursue a Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling where she graduated in May 2024. She now works full-time in private practice as a mental health counselor and part-time at The Beacon.
Katey is passionate about creating accepting, inclusive, and empathetic spaces that welcome varying identities and beliefs. She enjoys using various modes of creative expression and play in her work to foster communication and reflection.
Outside of work, you will find Katey on a long walk with her dog, at a local estate sale, or lounging under a blanket in her living room listening to music.
Ashleigh Trudell (she, her)
MSW Intern
Favorite Emotion to Feel: Creative
Ashleigh is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and mental health education. She graduated with a Bachelors of Social Work from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA and is now working on her Master of Social Work with a specialization in Mental Health at the University of Pittsburgh. Before working at the Beacon, she has spent time working with children of all ages in afterschool programs and nonprofit settings.
Ashleigh loves creating inclusive and brave spaces where young people can feel safe to learn and grow. She’s committed to helping youth build their emotional toolboxes, equipping them with the skills they need to navigate life’s challenges.
When she’s not at the Beacon, you can find Ashleigh curled up with a good book, knitting cozy projects, or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. She believes in the power of connection and community and is excited to make a positive impact in the lives of young people!
Michael Cooley (he, him)
MSW Intern
Favorite Emotion to Feel: Accomplished
Michael earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh in 2024. During his time at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, where he worked for nearly three years as a patient transporter and later as a patient care technician, Michael gained valuable experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations. His work in neurology deepened his understanding of complex medical and mental health challenges, inspiring him to shift his career path from becoming a Physician Assistant to pursuing social work.
Driven by personal connections with family members who experienced the foster care system, Michael is passionate about advocating for foster youth and improving mental health support for underserved populations. He aspires to work as a policy analyst or lobbyist, driving systemic changes that promote equity and opportunity for vulnerable communities.
In his free time, Michael enjoys cooking, playing video games, lifting weights, exploring new restaurants, and listening to music.