Early Childhood Services Staff

Mary-Kate Merchant Breaux, LMSW

(She, Her, Hers)

Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
mmerchant@acadianafamilytree.org

Mary-Kate earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in psychology with a minor in communication. She continued her education at Louisiana State University and graduated in 2022 with her master’s in social work.

Mary-Kate has clinical experience working with those diagnosed with chronic mental illness in the behavioral health setting. She has also had the opportunity to serve and mentor individuals of all ages with diverse cultural backgrounds and disabilities. When working with clients, Mary-Kate includes strategies that promote early prevention and intervention in hopes of enhancing the individual’s resiliency and coping skills.

Professionally, her areas of interest include play therapy, emotional regulation, and assisting those with cognitive distortions resulting in low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. By utilizing a strengths-based approach, Mary-Kate aims to emphasize individuals’ ability to cope with and overcome adversity. Most importantly, she strives to create an environment where every individual feels heard, seen, respected, and valued.  During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, listening to podcasts and live music, traveling, and watching reality TV.

Cammie Porter, MS, PLPC

(She, Her, Hers)

Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
cporter@acadianafamilytree.org

Meet Cammie Porter, MS, PLPC, born and raised in New Iberia, Louisiana. Holding degrees in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Cammie specializes in child-centered play therapy and filial family therapy.

With experience in private practice serving Lafayette and nearby areas, she’s dedicated to supporting children and families. As a Louisiana Pathways Trainer III and Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator, Cammie focuses on effective childcare interventions. Currently pursuing her Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential, she plans to be fully licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2024.

Outside of work, Cammie enjoys family time, reading, baking, trying new restaurants with her husband, and savoring her favorite dish: gumbo with cold potato salad on the side. She also holds a special place in her heart for Christmas.

Patrick Sciambra, LMSW

(He, Him, His)

Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
psciambra@acadianafamilytree.org

Patrick received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in psychology with a minor in child and family studies. He continued with higher education at Louisiana State University, graduating in 2023 with his master’s in social work. He is licensed in the state of Louisiana and is currently working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW). Patrick has interned in the mental health field throughout his graduate school experience. One of which was in the Case Management Department at Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s and Children’s Hospital. When working with clients, Patrick employs a strengths-based approach to assist individuals in overcoming any challenges they face through positive coping mechanisms. He strives to create a safe and conducive environment for individuals to express themselves while feeling valued and respected. Outside of work, He enjoys participating in local theatre productions, watching reality competition TV, and spending time with loved ones.