Our Clinicians
Amber S. Pham, LCSW
CLINICAL DIRECTOR, FOUNDER, HEALER
“ I cannot teach anybody anything, I can only make them think.”
— Socrates —
Credentials:
MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern (University of the Cumberlands 2025 graduation date)
MBA Human Resource Management at University of Phoenix
BS Political Science Lander University
“If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change.” — Michael Jackson
Amber is passionate about helping others reaching their fullest potential and to empower them to take control of their own destiny. Fascinated by the human mind since childhood, she believes understanding it serves a meaningful purpose.
Immigrated from Vietnam to the United States, she experienced tremendous challenges and adversities as she learns to adjust to the new country. While overcoming obstacles, she learned that although the external environment poses challenges, what actually helped her grow is seeking deep within.
With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology earned in 2007, she laid a foundation in the study of human behavior and mental processes. This was further enriched by her pursuit of a Master’s in Social Work at Rutgers University, completed in 2011, where she specialized in clinical practice.
In 2012, she embarked on her clinical journey as a therapist at a mental health corporation. However, as time passed, she discovered that her true passion lay not in merely managing symptoms, but in prevention and healing. This realization marked a pivotal moment in her career, prompting her to step away from the confines of "corporate health settings" and explore a more innovative approach to mental health care. Determined to make a meaningful impact, she sought to create a space where holistic healing and preventative strategies could thrive, offering clients a more comprehensive path to well-being.
Achieving Nirvana, LLC was founded in 2019, her true calling emerged in guiding others toward self-discovery and healing. Rooted in insight-oriented techniques, Achieving Nirvana was created to help individuals awaken their inner strength, foster empowerment, and navigate the emotional barriers that hinder personal growth.
Beyond her professional work as a therapist, Amber finds solace in reading the Buddha Sutras and practicing meditation. She also enjoys cooking traditional Vietnamese cuisine, traveling, camping, and cherishing quality time with her family.
Credentials :
Founded Achieving Nirvana LLC 2019
Clinical Training in Psychotherapy with a Private Supervisor ( 2016-2018)
Masters in Social Work (Rutgers University 2011)
BA Psychology (Rutgers University 2007)
Odessa Patton, MBA
MENTAL HEALTH INTERN, ADVOCATE, HEALER
Odessa’s core values resonate deeply with the essence of Achieving Nirvana, LLC’s heart and vision— a counseling professional whose journey has been shaped by service, education, and soulful self-discovery. Currently an M.A. Counseling Intern at the University of the Cumberlands (anticipated graduation in 2025), Odessa brings both academic rigor and lived experience into her therapeutic approach.
Her educational background reflects a commitment to growth across multiple disciplines. She holds an MBA in Human Resource Management from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Lander University. This blend of human-focused and systems-oriented education uniquely equips her to understand the intersection of personal development and larger societal structures.
Originally from South Carolina, Odessa has called South Jersey home since 1999. After spending years in a work-centered, service-driven career, she began to feel a deeper calling in her 40s — one that aligned more closely with purpose, healing, and helping others rediscover their inner strength. That journey brought her back to her first loves: art, writing, and meaningful connection.
At Achieving Nirvana, Odessa merges her passion for counseling with her creative spirit, offering clients a space where they can feel heard, seen, and empowered. She believes that anyone — no matter where they are in life — can thrive with the right mindset, tools, and support. Her approach emphasizes growth, self-discipline, resilience, and vision.
Odessa’s work is grounded in love and partnership. She shares this life and mission with her husband, Eric, who is both her business partner and biggest supporter. Together, they are raising two amazing teenagers — a son and a daughter — who are already stepping into their own light and purpose.
Through Achieving Nirvana LLC, Odessa offers more than therapy — she offers a journey toward healing, balance, and wholeness for those ready to take the next step.
"If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." — Jesus (Mark 9:23)
“A man once asked the Buddha what he had gained from meditation. Buddha answered, nothing, however I have lost anxiety, anger, depression and insecurity and the fear of aging and death.”
— Siddthara Qautama —