Meet The Team
Amir Levine, Ph.D., LCSW-R
Clinical Director, Director of Continuing Education
he/him/his
Amir Levine is a NY State Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of Bhava Therapy Group. Dr. Levine also served for over a decade as the Director of Behavioral Scientist at the Bronx Lebanon Hospital, Department of Family Medicine where he directed the behavioral medicine curriculum.
As Clinical Director of our team therapists, Dr. Levine serves as a devoted mentor, educator, mental health provider and an innovator in organizational development. Dr. Levine has presented at numerous national conferences about issues related to clinical psycho-therapeutic curriculum development, organizational development and direct patient care.
Deeply passionate about his clinical work with his clients and staff, Dr. Levine has the innate gift to hone in on the issues people with whom he serves struggle with and the ability to work collaboratively towards finding creative and productive solutions. Dr. Levine completed his Ph.D. degree in Social Work from the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University.
Danielle Feld, LMHC, Director of Operations and Intake
she/her/hers
Danielle is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in both NY & NJ who also holds a Certificate in Integrated Mental Health & Addictions Treatment. Having obtained a B.A. in Psychology from SUNY Plattsburgh and a M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from Pace University, Danielle began working with BHAVA as a psychotherapist in 2017 before transitioning into an administrative and supervisory role in 2020. She has over a decade of clinical experience working in a variety of settings including Private Practice, Outpatient Mental Health Programs, Inpatient Psychiatry, and Inpatient Substance Abuse Rehabilitation. Danielle strives to help BHAVA run smartly and efficiently.
Ariel Davis, New Client Coordinator
she/her/hers
Ariel obtained her B.S. in Psychology from SUNY Oneonta in 2013 and is currently working on obtaining her masters in Public Health from New York Medical College. Having 6 years experience working in the field of mental health and client services, Ariel joined the Bhava Therapy Team in 2019 as our New Client Coordinator. With her empathetic and nonjudgmental nature, selfless attitude, and commitment to supporting others, Ariel is eager to help others find their way to gaining the support they need. Ariel also understands how very hard it can be to take that first step to finding support. When you feel ready to take the step to reach out, Ariel is more than happy to be on the other line to help you begin your wellness journey.
Lyndsey Hochler, New Client Coordinator, MHC-Intern
She/her/hers
Lyndsey received her BFA in Musical Theatre from the University of the Arts. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She has experience providing Applied Behavior Analysis where she utilizes her creativity, endless compassion, and active listening skills to better the lives of others. Cultivating a safe and non-judgmental space is held at the highest importance when speaking to potential new clients. Lyndsey is humbled to be able to assist you in beginning your mental health journey.
Amanda Sacks, LCSW – Director of Group Programming
she/her/hers
Inspired by and trained in various healing modalities, Amanda intuitively combines ancient practices with modern therapeutic approaches. Whether working with individuals in therapy, leading support groups, workshops, or trainings, Amanda integrates yogic philosophy and the mind-body connection into her practice. Since 2010, Amanda has also led various therapeutic yoga and meditation programs, including for children and adults with cancer, youth who are homeless, youth in juvenile detention centers, and for adolescents and adults at psychiatric hospital programs. Amanda is currently training in the Katonah Yoga® method. Amanda completed her Bachelor’s in Social Work from New York University and Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California.
Lyrica Fils-Aimé , LCSW-R, RPT-S
Continuing Education Facilitator
Anti-Racist Consultant
she/her/hers
Lyrica Fils-Aimé, LCSW-R, RPT-S, was born in Haiti and Kreyòl was her first language. Her mother is a WASP from New Hampshire and met her father in Haiti. The convergence of these two very different backgrounds has informed Lyrica’s experiences with identity with every step that she takes in life. Lyrica serves as a Director of Equity Transformation and Culturally Responsive Environments at the New York City Department of Education. Lyrica is a NY State Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Registered Play Therapist, and runs a private practice in Harlem. Lyrica obtained her BA from the University of Richmond in Psychology and Business, an MSW from New York University and a Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership from Fordham University. Lyrica began working in equitable education and counseling while working at Children’s Aid College Prep Charter School as a Community School Director. In this role, she created and designed equity teams, diversity councils, affinity groups, multi-cultural programming and supervised social workers with an anti-racist and anti-oppressive leadership focus. Lyrica is also a founding member of Pilon Harlem, an anti-racist and anti-oppressive mental health organization.
Veronica Vaiti, LCSW-R, CCATP
Executive Director
she/her/hers
Veronica Vaiti is a NY State Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Bhava Therapy Group. Veronica has been working as a Psychotherapist, Yoga Therapist and Meditation Teacher for almost 2 decades. She is a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT).
Veronica holds a Bachelors Degree in Business and Communications from Villanova University, and a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from New York University (NYU). Her Post Masters Training includes Advanced Clinical Training at NYU, the Clinical Fellowship Program at the Gestalt Associates for Psychotherapy, Developmental Somatic Therapy with Ruella Frank as well as her ongoing work with her clients.
Veronica’s professional experience includes working with diverse client populations and organizations with people ranging in age from early childhood through the elderly. She has worked in direct service settings such as: inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities, chemical dependency and HIV mental health clinics, non-profit service organizations and private practice. Her approach to her work is informed by her professional training and experience, her 20+ year study and practice of yoga and meditation and life experiences including volunteering abroad and at home.
In her work with her clients, Veronica wishes to create the conditions which empower and support the process of personal growth and movement towards self-fulfillment. Veronica utilizes a non-judgmental, accepting, playful and empathic stance with her clients. She is continually guided by her belief that within every individual lives an expert on their own source of joy and contentment and path towards self-actualization and she strives to cultivate her client’s ability to connect with their inner-expert. Veronica deeply values the clients she works with and holds them to be her greatest teachers via the many ways that they display courage, vulnerability, perseverance and honesty.
Amanda Veras MHC-LP, Director of Therapeutic Compliance
she/her/hers
Amanda is a Mental Health Counselor dedicated to providing an environment that supports and empowers her clients. Her non-judgmental, empathic and playful approach to therapy provides clients with a safe space to be themselves. She listens intuitively and believes in working collaboratively with her clients to support their personal growth and goals.
Amanda has worked with a population of diverse clients ranging from early childhood and adolescents through adulthood. She is fluent in English and Spanish and has experience in treating a range of issues that include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal difficulties.
Through therapeutic work she believes that anyone is capable of obtaining balance and wellness, and achieving happiness regardless of their stressors
Lauren is a New York state licensed social worker and native New Yorker. She received her bachelor’s degree from Skidmore college and her master’s degree from the New York University Silver School of Social Work. Lauren has extensive experience working with youth in school settings, where she supported children struggling with anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, along with additional psychological needs. Lauren has also worked with children and adults in other clinical spaces.
Lauren meets each client where they are and tailors her approach to best suit their individual needs. She is a strong believer in the strengths-based and client-centered models. Furthermore, Lauren views the therapeutic process as collaborative; she prioritizes client self-actualization by working with the client to help them find the tools they require to advocate for themselves.
As a highly compassionate individual, Lauren provides empathetic, high-quality care to each one of her clients.
Tiffany Carter, Most Fabulous Office Manager and Director of Billing Services
she/her/hers
Tiffany began her career with BHAVA Therapy Group as our first marketing intern in 2015. Having obtained her B.S. in Healthcare Management from Mount Saint Vincent University in 2016, Tiffany then moved into her current role as Office Manager in 2016.
With her unyielding optimism, eagerness to grow and learn, infectious kindness and exquisite attention to detail, Tiffany brings boundless warmth and professionalism to the most important role of keeping all-things-Bhava-office running smoothly.
Alyssa Kushner, LCSW – Clinical Supervisor, Director of Social Media & Marketing
she/her/hers
Alyssa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a Masters degree from New York University and a Bachelors degree in Psychology from Rutgers University.
Taking a strengths-based client-centered, relational, and trauma-informed approach Alyssa has a passion for working with adolescents and adults with various needs including anxiety, depression/mood disorders, complex trauma, substance use, codependency, low self-esteem, and life transitions. She also has extensive experience working with emotional dysregulation, ADHD, executive dysfunction, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and crisis intervention.
Having provided individual therapy, group therapy, clinical coaching, and parent support in various settings such as a partial hospitalization program and intensive outpatient programs, day treatments/therapeutic day schools, and outpatient mental health, Alyssa is well adept at also supporting client’s parents and families as they manage with the different issues they encounter.
Alyssa brings a trauma informed lens and when appropriate, will integrate a holistic focus and utilize practices like mindfulness skills, self-compassion development, creativity, somatic strategies, and guided meditations. She also has a background of training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and will incorporate both DBT skills and/or CBT tools when needed.
She believes that treatment should be collaborative and individualized and wants to provide a safe comfortable space to build the therapeutic relationship to empower and challenge clients to achieve their best and develop new ways to cope with difficulties.
For self-care, Alyssa enjoys weight lifting, cooking vegetarian meals, journaling, hiking, and using mindfulness herself. She also has a background singing and playing piano and appreciates live music and broadway shows.
Katherine Berko, LMSW
Katherine Berko, LMSW
she/her/hers
Katherine is a licensed social worker with an MSW from NYU’s Silver School and a BA in Psychology from Duke University. She’s currently training at New York Counseling & Clinical Social Work Services. Fluent in English and Spanish, Katherine has experience conducting therapy with adolescents, adults, and couples. She’s co-run both tobacco cessation and narrative medicine groups.
Katherine’s literary background encourages her to view each patient as a unique story of which she has the immense privilege to help shape and make sense of. Every session she strives to be open, empathetic, curious, and non-judgmental. Katherine tailors modalities to meet each patient’s specific needs and personality. She draws heavily from psychodynamic and attachment theories, but also incorporates aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Art Therapy. With couples she takes an Emotionally Focused Therapy approach. Research shows that the most important factor in a patient’s treatment progress is the quality of the patient-therapist relationship; therefore, Katherine encourages her patients to be honest with her. She commends you for seeking therapy and wishes you an enlightening journey.
Bailey Lynn Brown, LMSW
Bailey Lynn Brown, LMSW
she/her/hers
Bailey Lynn Brown is a New York state Licensed Social Worker. Bailey obtained her Bachelor’s of Science in Biology and her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology from Wells College and Bailey obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Simmons University in Boston, MA. Bailey’s clinical experience includes working in outpatient and inpatient mental health settings, schools, crisis and emergency room departments meeting the needs of people struggling with substance abuse, LGBTQ issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Bailey utilizes a strengths-based and eclectic patient-centered approach including ideas and techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Theory, and Positive Psychology. Clinical training and knowledge of the new field of Positive Psychology allows Bailey to use holistic methods with each and every patient such as mindfulness practices, gratitude practices, and meditation
Having worked with children, teens, adults, families and couples, Bailey consistently establishes a safe environment with her innate sensitivity and warmth, allowing you to be yourself and explore any and all of your concerns. Bailey has the ability to create a comfortable, caring, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship, where you can develop insights and skills needed to overcome whatever challenges you are facing, accomplish your mental health goals and find balance and happiness in your life.
Lauren Eley, LMSW
Lauren Eley, LMSW
she/her/hers
Lauren is a New York state licensed social worker and native New Yorker. She received her bachelor’s degree from Skidmore college and her master’s degree from the New York University Silver School of Social Work. Lauren has extensive experience working with youth in school settings, where she supported children struggling with anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, along with additional psychological needs. Lauren has also worked with children and adults in other clinical spaces.
Lauren meets each client where they are and tailors her approach to best suit their individual needs. She is a strong believer in the strengths-based and client-centered models. Furthermore, Lauren views the therapeutic process as collaborative; she prioritizes client self-actualization by working with the client to help them find the tools they require to advocate for themselves.
As a highly compassionate individual, Lauren provides empathetic, high-quality care to each one of her clients.
Shauna Folts, LMSW
Shauna Folts, LMSW
she/her/hers
Shauna is a licensed social worker in New York State. She received her MSW from Arizona State University and is currently in training at the Psychoanalytic Training Institute of the New York Counseling and Guidance Service (NYCGS). Shauna began her career working in the art and design world in which she also holds an MA from Syracuse University.
Shauna integrates a psychodynamic framework, bringing an awareness of how the past informs the future, implementing mind-body connection awareness, as well as cognitive and behavior modalities to create a holistic approach to understanding and working with clients in the present.
Shauna celebrates the therapeutic space, where she believes authentic expression can be shared, seen, and held in order to find truth. When working with diverse populations, Shauna maintains a curiosity, a search and endeavor for meaning and understanding of the client’s experience. She values the client-therapist relationship wholeheartedly. She invites the energetic collaboration of finding the treasure within. Allowing the client to discover who they fundamentally desire to be – through love, self-compassion, confidence, self-esteem, and authenticity.
Nancy Gershman, LMSW
Nancy Gershman, LMSW
she/her/hers
Nancy Gershman is a New York State Licensed Social Worker and a graduate of the Columbia University School of Social Work. She has additional training in the treatment of eating disorders from the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy/ Center for the Study of Anorexia and Bulimia. Earlier, as a creative arts practitioner in end of life care and bereavement, Nancy developed a technique called Dreamscaping for survivors prone to rumination and isolation. By guiding individuals to build a new, “prescriptive” memory in their imagination and then tangibly as a share-able picture, the technique re-trains the brain to embrace the future. At Bhava, Nancy applies that same blend of companioning, playful inquisitiveness and strengths-based orientation towards body-positive work, trauma-informed psychotherapy, and addiction recovery.
Her deep compassion and respect for her clients’ emotional truth is what makes the relationship work. With compassion, warmth, and deep observation, Nancy begins by building a shared understanding. With grace, she discerns how a highly sensitive nature, long held emotional states and communication styles (one’s own and others) could be maintaining unhappiness in the current environment. Equally important, she explores, What ultimately brings you joy? Always, Nancy is creating calm and awakening insight in the way that best suits her clients— be that with role playing and resourcing, CBT, DBT, meditation or tapping, genograms, musical playlists, or one powerful metaphor.
Val Hamra, LMSW
Val Hamra, LMSW
they/them
Val Hamra, LMSW
Hi! I’m Val. I prioritize a client-therapist relationship based on trust, curiosity, and open communication. I have experience with individuals and couples struggling with various mental health and relational issues including but not limited to trauma, depression, anxiety, gender/sexuality identity, and substance abuse. I’m nonbinary, trans masc, and queer and have a particular interest in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
As a clinician, I’m interested in collaborative, accessible treatment. We will openly discuss the therapeutic tools I draw from in session so that you can establish your own healing toolbox. Therapy is a living, breathing thing and I like to treat it as such; feedback about sessions is welcome and appreciated. My practice is trauma informed and structured around an anti-oppressive, holistic framework. I integrate mindfulness and somatic techniques alongside more traditional psychodynamic and behavioral treatment models.
I received my MSW from Columbia School of Social Work and have trained with IPSS and ICP. I have experience in outpatient mental health treatment, supportive housing, and healthcare accessibility advocacy. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!
Eric Han, MA, MHC-LP
Eric Han, MA, MHC-LP
he/him/his
Eric is a mental health counselor with a MA and EdM in mental health counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a BA in psychology from UConn.
He was born in the US but has moved back and forth between the US and South Korea, making him what is known as a Third Culture Kid (TCK) with intimate knowledge of both cultures. He realizes the importance of culture and places a strong emphasis on being culturally competent while advocating for the destigmatization of mental health awareness.
Having an eclectic approach, he draws upon different evidence-based treatments to optimize the session for the client. He believes that each client is unique and requires an individualized treatment that caters to their specific needs. He believes that unconditional positive regard and believing in his clients are essential and thinks of therapy as a collaboration of growth.
Eric has experience working in an outpatient treatment center for substance abuse and addiction where he has helped clients with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, and various other mental concerns in both an individual and group setting.
Doriel Jacov, LMSW
Doriel is curious, warm, and non-judgmental. He believes putting words to experience can be immensely healing. His approach is holistic, and he sees the therapeutic relationship as a potential catalyst for growth and transformation. He listens with genuine interest and views therapy as a co-created exploration. He practices primarily from a psychodynamic perspective, incorporating somatic, cognitive behavioral, and other modalities as needed. He is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and understands how trauma can impact the body and mind.
Doriel works with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, post-traumatic stress, life/career transitions, questions around identity, existential dread, and shame, among others. He welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and identities and has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Doriel holds an MSW from Hunter College, a JD from Columbia University, and a BBA from George Washington University.
Elizabeth Joseph, MHC-LP
Elizabeth Joseph, MHC-LP
she/her/hers
Elizabeth holds a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine
Elizabeth emphasizes a strengths-based, collaborative approach with her clients. She draws from different evidence-based modalities, including CBT, DBT, and ACT. She has experience working with individuals in partial hospitalization programs struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, and psychosis, among others.
Elizabeth aims to provide her clients with a warm, trusting, culturally-sensitive environment in order to encourage them to empower themselves to live a fuller life.
Cayley Kasten, LCSW
Cayley Kasten, LCSW
she/her/hers
Cayley earned a Masters Degree in Social Work from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. She has experience working in outpatient and inpatient mental health settings, and in schools. Cayley has been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy. She completed training at the Ackerman institute for the Family and is currently training at the Metropolitan Institute for Training in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy.
Cayley may utilize art therapy, play therapy, and other modalities as indicated. She has experience working with people who have been diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, as well as relationship and life stage challenges.
Her approach to therapy is collaborative and post-modern. Cayley believes that in order to empower clients, it is important to take an unassuming stance with kindness and curiosity. This allows her to build a trusting and empathic therapeutic alliance with clients and address the root of their problems.
Rachel Kimelman, LCSW
Rachel Kimelman, LCSW
she/her/hers
Rachel Kimelman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with vast clinical experience obtained from her 9+ years working in the field of mental health. Rachel’s experience includes working with people who face challenges related to life transitions, mood disorders, personality disorders, LGBTQ issues, trauma and homelessness. Additionally, Rachel has knowledge and training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and is able to utilize a multi-modal therapeutic approach to meet client’s individual needs.
With a strong passion for helping people meet their life goals, Rachel uses her intuitive abilities and empathic understanding. This helps clients clarify and manage their challenges so they can focus on actualizing their potential.
Rachel received a Master’s Degree from The Columbia University School of Social Work and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from SUNY Stony Brook. She believes that trust is the core foundation toward building a strong therapeutic alliance.
Pamela LePore, LMSW
Pamela LePore, LMSW
she/her/hers
Pam holds a master’s degree in Social Work from New York University where she began her journey practicing psychodynamic and mindful therapies. Pam draws on an eclectic mix of modalities including Internal Family Systems and Gestalt, creating solutions and vitality with awareness as a starting point. Towards this, Pam creates a therapeutic space for exploring feelings and desires. Pam treats children and adults, couples and families in working with trauma, mood, personality and stress disorders, as well as with substance misuse among others. Pam previously worked as a middle school teacher, a writer, and in asset management in NYC.
Sophie Majteles, LMSW
Sophie Majteles, LMSW
she/her/hers
Sophie is a New York State licensed social worker. She received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Columbia University and her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from New York University, and is a current trainee at the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy’s Family and Couples Treatment Services program. Attuned to the mind-body connection, Sophie draws from somatic approaches to healing as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and the Gottman Method for couples. Her clinical experience includes but is not limited to working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, stress, self-esteem challenges, and relationship difficulties.
Sophie seeks to create a space that is client-centered, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed. She believes in the power of safe, affirming, and connected relationships, including therapeutic relationships, to transform individuals, families, and communities. Outside of her clinical work, Sophie has worked in government and community organizing, which helps her apply a social justice lens to her role as a therapist and understand how social, political, and economic factors impact individual and collective well-being.
Teresita Martinez, MS, LMHC, CAP, ICADC
Teresita Martinez, MS, LMHC, CAP, ICADC
she/her/hers
Teresita Martinez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Addiction Professional, and has worked in the addiction field in Miami for the past six years. She has dedicated her time to working in both an intensive outpatient setting for adolescents & young adults struggling with substance abuse and her private practice. While working with this population, Mrs. Martinez has served individuals that are suffering with an array of mental health issues, including mood disorders and trauma.
Mrs. Martinez has also worked with chemically dependent adults, pre-adolescent children in the foster care system, and children whose parents are in treatment and early recovery. She has facilitated numerous group therapies, including multifamily groups and spent the last two years focusing on family work. She is bilingual (English/Spanish) and has provided treatment and support services to families from very diverse cultural backgrounds.
Mrs. Martinez obtained her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Miami and her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Florida International University. She is certified by the National Drug Court Institute in Motivational Enhancement Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MET/CBT5) therapist level training. She has volunteered as a guest speaker at several Miami-Dade county public schools to assist in addressing the issue of substance abuse among students.
Mrs. Martinez understands the unique challenges that any life event can bring and wants to help her clients overcome their struggles. She believes that treatment needs to be individualized and clients have all the tools they need within themselves. Her goal is to provide support, guidance and share in the human experience.
Anginese Phillips, LCAT, R-DMT
Anginese Phillips, LCAT, R-DMT
she/her/hers
Anginese is a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist & Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist of the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA). She is a graduate of Pratt Institute with a Master’s of Science in Creative Arts Therapy. Anginese has facilitated group & individual sessions with adults & adolescents in various settings.
Anginese’s therapeutic approach is a combination of psychodynamic & dance/movement therapy techniques. Most of her work has been in creating a space for adults & older adults to reconnect with who they are on a verbal and nonverbal level. Anginese really enjoys supporting her clients in using dance/movement therapy because it allows them to see that movement is a large part of their language as well as verbal communication. Addressing & creating an empathic relationship with her clients using their movement behavior & verbal thoughts, even while sitting or in stillness is the most meaningful part of her work. In fact, many issues that Anginese tends to explore with her clients include the disconnection between what is being said verbally and what is being expressed nonverbally. These disconnections can impact one’s relationships with others and most importantly create an overall instability within oneself.
Jesse Quiles, LMSW
Jesse Quiles, LMSW
he/him/his
Jesse is a NYS Licensed Master of Social Work. He graduated with his MSW from New York University and with his BSW from Lehman College. Jesse stresses the importance of human connection and trust as the foundation for a strong therapeutic relationship. He encourages collaboration and feedback throughout the therapeutic process to best ensure each client is getting what they need over the course of their therapy.
Jesse follows a strength-based model and pulls from CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic models of therapy. Jesse has experience working with teens and young adults that were struggling with issues stemming from anxiety, depression, past traumatic experiences, life-transitions, as well as difficulties with interpersonal relationships.
Jesse focuses on meeting the client where they are and emphasizes the importance of going at a pace that is comfortable for each client. He strives to offer a comfortable, lighthearted, and accepting environment so that every client can be their most comfortable and most genuine self. He encourages every client to explore the depths of their own self to better understand themselves, and ultimately accept and be happy with who they are and what they have accomplished throughout their lives.
Sneha Rawlani, MHC-LP
Sneha Rawlani, MHC-LP
she/her/hers
Sneha (pronounced snayha) believes that the client-therapist relationship is the most important part of therapy and hopes to create a space where people feel safe and free. She has a gentle and affirming approach that encourages self-compassion and self-acceptance. She also believes strongly in empowering clients and respecting their autonomy. She focuses on providing clients with the knowledge and tools necessary to help them understand and address the causes of their distress, whilst supporting them with feeling their feelings. Her approach is also informed by her hopefulness, creativity, and social justice values.
Sneha received her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from New York University. Her experience and interest lies in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Having lived most of her life in India, Sneha emphasises culture and identity in her practice. Her trauma-informed approach draws from person-centered, feminist, narrative, and cognitive-behavioral therapies. Sneha is open to working with various types of distress or concerns, but is most well-versed in the areas of anxiety, depression, body image and eating disorders, ADHD/neurodivergence, relational issues/trauma, gender and sexuality, racial/cultural identity, experiences of discrimination or oppression, and life transitions associated with adolescence and young adulthood.
Nicole Reynoso, MSEd, MHC-LP
Nicole Reynoso, MSEd, MHC-LP
she/her/hers
Nicole Reynoso, MSEd, MHC-LP
Nicole is an Afro-Latina Mental Health Counselor with experience providing bilingual services (English/Spanish) to children, teens and adults managing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and interpersonal relationships. Nicole’s sessions are compassionate and strengths-focused with an emphasis in establishing trust, safety and respect while incorporating skills from CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic theory as needed. Nicole has experience leading
children and teens groups focusing on emotional literacy and social skills development. Nicole understands the difficulty of managing multiple stressors and exploring your identity in an ever changing world. Working with Nicole means working with someone that will work collaboratively to provide a safe, nonjudgmental and multiculturally sensitive space to empower clients as they navigate their path to wellness.
Nicole has a Master’s in Education in Mental Health Counseling from CUNY Hunter College and a Bachelor’s of Arts in Forensic Psychology from CUNY John Jay College.
Maria del Rosario, LMHC
Maria del Rosario, LMHC
she/her/hers
Maria brings a deep sense of clarity and comforting presence to her work with her clients.
Coming from a strengths-based, client-centered perspective, Maria works collaboratively with her clients to identify any barriers that may be hindering progress toward growth and works wholeheartedly to help her clients reach their goals in life.
Earning her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Pace University, Maria has extensive experience with clients ranging in age from early childhood and adolescence through adulthood surrounding matters of relationship distress, substance use disorders, chronic illness, and mental health concerns. Maria has also worked in early childhood development at the pre-kindergarten programs administered at the Goddard School and The Learning Experience. Additionally, she was a youth advocate/professional mentor at Friends of the Children NY where she worked in the school and community setting.
Lydia Schinasi, LMSW
Lydia Schinasi, LMSW
she/her/hers
Lydia Schinasi is a Licensed Social Worker with a master’s degree from New York University. Lydia has extensive experience treating teenagers, college students, and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities. She works with individuals and couples who have various issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic illness. She is rooted in psychodynamic techniques but considers herself a holistic practitioner, drawing from various approaches including CBT and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples. Lydia has volunteered as a Crisis Text Counselor and at NY- Presbyterian hospital supporting families with children in the NICU and PICU. She also co-led a support group over zoom during the pandemic for teenagers who suffer from chronic pain.
Prior to becoming a psychotherapist Lydia held a previous career in advertising sales, where she adapted and thrived within stressful corporate environments. This experience guides her as she works with others toward a stronger sense of self and the establishment of healthier patterns. She is committed to helping you meet your needs, realize change, and reach your potential all while bringing curiosity, humor, and creativity into a safe space.
Emily Shapiro MS, LMFT
Emily Shapiro MS, LMFT
she/her/hers
Emily holds a master’s degree from Bank Street College of Education and a master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. Emily has taught a range of ages from 2’s through teens, and was the director at Columbus Park West Nursery School in Manhattan for fifteen years. She has 25 years of experience working with children and families both at the school and privately.
Emily’s approach to therapy is both warm and collaborative. She listens intuitively, and respects the client’s expertise on her/his own experience. In the therapy sessions, we are partners in identifying and building on your strengths. Together, we clarify your goals and clear away obstacles so you can move forward.
Emily’s areas of interest include couples, parenting, single parenting, blending families, struggling teens, and the multigenerational effects on a family as the oldest generation ages. Emily has a special interest in preventive psychotherapy; preparing clients for life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, school entry, transitions to college and to work, retirement and aging.
Cheyenne Skinner, LMSW
Cheyenne Skinner, LMSW
she/her/hers
Cheyenne Skinner is a New York state licensed social worker. She received her bachelor’s degree from Western Connecticut State University in Justice and Law Administration and earned her Masters in Social Work from Springfield College. Cheyenne has experience working with families and children with various mental health diagnoses in schools, in-home settings and addiction treatment centers. She is trained in Seeking Safety, an evidence-based treatment that helps clients with trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, and substance misuse. She also helps with issues including executive functioning, social-emotional deficits, depression, anxiety, abuse, grief, illness, relationships, and transitions.
Cheyenne believes in helping an individual holistically. She is passionate about instilling the ability of self-efficacy and self-awareness. Through a collaborative partnership, Cheyenne helps guide clients into a life of purpose and belonging, helping resolve challenges and build new skills, and increase connection and meaning. With an empowerment-focused approach, working with clients is based on the belief that we all have the potential to continue to grow into our healthiest selves. Cheyenne uses evidence-based executive function strategies, stress management techniques, CBT, positive behavior interventions and supports, and many other strategies to help clients achieve their goals.
Mariel Tejada, Intern
Mariel Tejada
she/her/hers
Mariel Tejada
Mariel is a New York native with a strong culturally diverse background. She is bilingual and is dedicated to help people from different backgrounds and ethnicities. She believes strongly in the importance of mental health and would like to make a difference in her community. She holds a bachelors degree in healthcare administration from Touro University worldwide, and is currently in the process of acquiring her masters degree in marriage and family therapy. Mariel believes in providing empathetic, unbiased, interpersonal, and holistic care, as well as other modern forms of therapy. She is dedicated in helping others, and is ready to begin her journey in providing high quality care to those in need.
Kim Wallach, LMSW
Kim Wallach
she/her/hers
Kim Wallach
Kim Wallach is a New York State Licensed Social Worker who obtained her Master’s Degree from Fordham University. Kim’s clinical experience includes working with a diverse population of clients from early childhood through adulthood, both in a school district and a mental health outpatient clinic.
Having worked with clients who are struggling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, substance use disorder, addiction, learning disabilities, and personality disorders, Kim understands that it takes courage to take the first step toward making positive changes in your life. Kim’s authenticity, kindness, insight and clarity is tangible, and she holds each person she cares for with the highest regard. She is passionate about working collaboratively with each of her clients and providing an empathic, non-judgemental, supportive, and safe space in every session, and is honored to share this journey with you.
Elizabeth Warren, LMSW
Elizabeth Warren,LMSW
she/her/hers
Elizabeth Warren, LMSW
Elizabeth is a Licensed Master Social Worker, with a Masters degree from Stony Brook University and a Bachelors degree in Psychology from Baruch College. Her interest in people led her to learning about and exploring a variety of populations. In the past she has provided therapeutic services to POC, the LGBTQ+ community, survivors of abuse, those diagnosed with intellectual/developmental disabilities, various personality disorders, SUD, PTSD, eating disorder, families, groups and more. Through working with these groups, she has had the chance to learn and utilize a number of modalities such as CBT, MI, DBT, ABA, SFBT among other approaches. Her experience with each of these modalities enables her to pull from a number of therapeutic styles and craft an experience that meets each of her client’s individual needs. As a psychotherapist it is her goal to create a safe space where each person she works with may receive services that both meet them where they are and alter with them as they continue to grow.
LMSW/LCSW – Licensed Psychotherapist
LMHC – Licensed Mental Health Counselor
LMFT – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
CAP – Certified Addiction Professional
MHC-LP –Mental Health Counseling
LCAT – Licensed Creative Arts Therapist
R-DMT – Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist