Center for Seeking Peace, PLLC Staff

 Owner & PMHNP-BC

Genise Binns is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career in Buffalo, New York, graduating from Erie County Community College with an associate's degree in nursing at 25 years old. She has since logged over thirty years of experience in various areas of patient care.

In addition to her extensive clinical experience, Genise also has an impressive academic background. She also has her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and she is currently studying for her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Her academic background also includes teaching. Genise spent ten years as a Nursing Educator, Nursing Program Specialist, and Academic Advisor for learning institutions such as ECPI University, the Norfolk Community Service Board, and Fortis College.

With this combination of clinical experience, education, and her specialty as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Genise can offer a personal approach to your Medication Management, and Counselling needs. She will provide comprehensive and quality mental health care to diverse populations. She believes that finding the right strategy is key to recovery and that there is no cookie-cutter solution. Genise is willing and dedicated to helping you achieve a better quality of life.

LPC

Gwendolyn Walthes is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with  Adolescents,  Adults, and Children. She currently provides mental health counseling via telelhealth.

She specializes in anxiety, codependency, depression, marital issues, PTSD, sexual abuse, and Women’s Issues.

You may connect with Gwen via her teleheatlh link for appointments:  https://telehealth.kareo.com/gwendolyn-walthes 

PMHNP-BC & Chief Nursing Officer

As a dedicated healthcare professional with a passion for mental health, I am currently interning as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My journey in healthcare began in the fast-paced environment of the emergency room, where I honed my skills in patient assessment, crisis intervention, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.

During my tenure in the emergency room, I witnessed firsthand the intersection of physical and mental health. This experience ignited my interest in psychiatry as I recognized the critical need for comprehensive mental healthcare services. Motivated by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges, I made the decision to pursue specialized training in psychiatric nursing.

My transition to the field of psychiatric nursing reflects my commitment to holistic care and advocacy for vulnerable populations. As a PMHNP intern, I am dedicated to expanding my knowledge in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment modalities. I am particularly interested in exploring innovative approaches to address the complexities of mental illness, including psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and integrative therapies.

In addition to my clinical aspirations, I am deeply invested in promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma within healthcare and the broader community. Through active involvement in mental health advocacy initiatives and community outreach programs, I strive to foster environments that prioritize mental wellness and support individuals in achieving their full potential.

I am excited about the opportunity to merge my diverse clinical background with specialized psychiatric training to provide compassionate, patient-centered care as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning and a genuine passion for mental health advocacy, I am eager to contribute positively to the field of psychiatric nursing and make a lasting impact on the well-being of those I serve. 

PMHNP-BC

Kim Sivak began her nursing career as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Reading, Pennsylvania, initially working on a medical-surgical unit in a local medical center. Early in her career, however, she discovered a deep and lasting passion for mental health. This calling led her to transition into psychiatric nursing at a Pennsylvania State Hospital, where she devoted much of her professional life to caring for individuals living with mental illness.

Driven by a commitment to professional growth and clinical excellence, Kim pursued further education and assumed increasing leadership responsibilities throughout her career. Her dedication culminated in her role as Chief Nurse Executive within the Pennsylvania State Hospital system. While residing in Delaware, she also served as Chief of Behavioral Health Services at the Wilmington VA Medical Center, further expanding her impact on the mental health care of Veterans.

With decades of experience as a registered nurse specializing in mental health, Kim has worked across a range of settings, including inpatient and outpatient programs, and has provided care to children, adolescents, adults, and Veterans. Her leadership has extended beyond the bedside, as she contributed to the development of mental health policies that promote the Recovery Model and Trauma-Informed Care—foundations that prioritize dignity, hope, and resilience.

Following her retirement from full-time practice, Kim relocated and began shaping the next generation of nurses as a clinical instructor at ECPI University and Bryant & Stratton College. Wishing to pursue a dream, she recently earned her Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certification, marking a return to direct patient care- a space where her compassion and clinical insight truly shine.

Kim remains deeply committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and substance use disorders. She draws inspiration from The Starfish Story, believing that even small acts of care can make a life-changing difference. It is in these moments—when she sees the positive impact of her work on someone’s life—that she feels most energized and fulfilled.

Ed.D., LPC

Sanford Martin, EdD, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified in Psychological Testing. He is an ordained pastor and has pastored and served in several churches over many years throughout Eastern Virginia and Northeastern, North Carolina.

Dr. Martin received his Doctorate degree in Counseling from The College of William and Mary in Virginia, where he was also trained in psychological and neuropsychological testing and did his seminary studies at the Liberty University Seminary. He has worked in various mental health specialties for over 40 years and was licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia as a Professional Counselor in 1993.

Dr. Martin has specialized in therapy services regarding marital counseling, co-dependency, military issues, PTSD, and with victims of all forms of childhood abuse. He also specializes in Neuropsychological, ADHD/Autism and Mood Disorder related psychological testing with both children and adults.

He primarily engages in providing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and when desired incorporates a Christian component including Theophostic/ Transformational Prayer Ministry for anyone desiring Christian-oriented counseling. He has served as pastor of several churches over the years and also provides church health staff and congregational support/coaching, as well as conducting church-based marriage retreats.

Specialty Issues: Marital Issues, Co-Dependency, Sexual Abuse, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Abuse Recovery Issues, Spouse Abuse, Men’s Issues, Sexual Addiction, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Terminal Illness, Grief and Loss, Depression, Autism, ADHD, Chronic Illness/Pain Disorders, Panic Disorders, Military Issues, Dissociative Disorders, Sexual Disorders, Learning Disabilities/Developmental Disorders, Academic Testing, Head Trauma and Strokes, Neuropsychological Disorders, Theophostic Prayer Ministry (TPM)