Daheem Richardson, CARC, LADC-A

Founder & Program Director, Flip the Switch Counseling LLC

Daheem Richardson is a Certified Addiction Recovery Coach (CARC) and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor Assistant (LADC-A) with a powerful story of resilience and transformation. Drawing from lived experience with addiction, incarceration, and the journey to personal freedom, Daheem founded Flip the Switch Counseling to create a safe, innovative space for individuals facing life’s toughest challenges.

With over 2,000 clinical hours and specialized training in mindfulness, dual diagnosis, and trauma-informed care, Daheem brings both professional expertise and deep empathy to his work. His leadership is rooted in the belief that healing begins with connection, structure, and hope. He is also the creator of the HDDP (Hard Work, Dedication, Discipline, Preparation) curriculum—used in both recovery and youth development settings.

Under Daheem’s direction, Flip the Switch Counseling integrates unconventional therapy methods like gaming, paint therapy, and spiritual support to meet clients where they are. His vision is to redefine what effective, culturally relevant counseling looks like in Massachusetts and beyond.

Noraida Morales-Colon BHT

Behavioral Health Technician | Human Services Graduate

Noraida Morales-Colon is a passionate Behavioral Health Technician and a recent graduate of Mount Wachusett Community College, where she earned her degree in Human Services. Noraida brings a strong foundation in mental health, addiction recovery, and client support to her role at Flip the Switch Counseling.

With lived experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in recovery, Noraida is committed to walking alongside clients on their journey toward stability and self-empowerment. Her calm presence, cultural sensitivity, and dedication to service make her a valuable member of the Flip the Switch team.

Noraida continues to grow professionally as she pursues additional training and certifications in the behavioral health field. Her work is driven by empathy, accountability, and a genuine desire to make a difference in her community.

Alicia Rapson, MA, LMHC

Owner of Water Bear Counseling | Clinical Supervisor & Trauma Specialist

Alicia Rapson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and the founder of Water Bear Counseling. With a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and over a decade of experience in the mental health field, Alicia serves as a clinical supervisor and trauma specialist at Flip the Switch Counseling.

Alicia specializes in anxiety, trauma, and emotional regulation, and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Her approach is grounded in compassion, structure, and a deep understanding of how past experiences shape present challenges. She is dedicated to creating safe, affirming spaces for healing and personal growth.

As both a private practice owner and clinical partner, Alicia plays a vital role in ensuring quality care and professional development across the Flip the Switch team. Her supervision and leadership help guide the next generation of counselors with excellence, empathy, and integrity.

Desiree Maldonado, LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker | Therapist & Group Facilitator

Desiree Maldonado is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with extensive experience supporting individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. As a therapist and group facilitator at Flip the Switch Counseling, she brings warmth, insight, and clinical depth to every session.

Desiree is known for her holistic, strengths-based approach—helping clients tap into their inner resilience while addressing emotional and behavioral patterns that hold them back. She combines evidence-based methods with cultural awareness and real-world understanding to build trust and foster lasting change.

In addition to individual therapy, Desiree leads therapeutic groups focused on emotional regulation, self-esteem, and recovery. Her ability to connect deeply with clients makes her an essential part of the healing journey for many at Flip the Switch Counseling.