PCN Providers — The Parish Counseling Network at Droste

Therapists

A trusted network of independent therapists serving communities throughout the ten counties of the Archdiocese. All of the therapists provide virtual sessions and some also provide in-person.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-person & Virtual
Location: Westchester County
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults
Languages: English, Spanish
Sometimes, life treats people unkindly. Many can overcome these challenges, but others need guidance. This is where the psychotherapeutic skills of Carmen Muñiz Cooper, L.M.S.W. (Licensed Master Social Worker) have proven so valuable. For 25 years, she has been helping individuals, families and special needs children address the difficult situations that diminish well-being.
In her practice, Carmen Muniz Cooper addresses marriage problems, family discord, the protections and rights of the disabled, addictive behavior, mental health situations, and other struggles. Her clients respond to the caring and compassionate way she treats these issues, just as she did as the first director of New York City's Cabrini Immigrant Services.
A special focus of the practice treats the problems that arise between mothers and daughters, where love and limits conflict. Her special presentations to parent groups often pinpoint these situations and offer a way forward.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Under 5, Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, Croatian
I am a mental health counselor with a masters degree from Queens College, CUNY. I work with adults, children, and adolescents and provide individual, couples, family, and group counseling. I have seven years of experience working to promote healing, starting with my work as a peer counselor. I worked with neuro-divergent children for four years, providing ABA therapy, and, in 2020, drawn to the mission of affordable and accessible therapy, I joined the team at Droste.
In my therapeutic work, I draw from behavioral and insight-oriented approaches to create a unique healing path for each person. As a born and bred New Yorker (yes, I will give you all my go-to best eating spots), I know how stressful life can be. Together, I will work with you to identify and change patterns that may be getting in the way of you living the life you deserve. For me, it is a privilege to get to bear witness to the healing that can happen with therapy.
While I work across issues areas and have experience in supporting people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges, I am especially passionate about supporting adolescents and their families in navigating changing dynamics and creating healthy, long-lasting, relationship patterns.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Westchester County
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, Spanish
My name is Edili Marleny Maldonado, and I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York and a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. I have been a National Certified Counselor (NCC) since 2021 and a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) since 2022. I have worked in mental health for the past ten years. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, elders, high-risk clients, and clients from different social backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, ages, genders, economic statuses, and mental health disorders. After witnessing therapy's profound impact on individuals' lives, I was inspired to become a therapist. Something about me that is unique is my multicultural background and bilingual fluency. Growing up in a monolingual Spanish-speaking household and having the opportunity to navigate between cultures has shaped my perspective and increased my sensitivity to diverse experiences. This allows me to create a culturally sensitive and inclusive therapeutic environment. I am inspired by the resilience and strength of individuals who overcome adversity and find ways to thrive. Witnessing their courage and determination in the face of challenges motivates me to provide the best possible support and guidance in their journey toward healing and personal growth. In addition to personal experiences, my work is influenced by various mentors, supervisors, and influential figures in the mental health field. I draw inspiration from the research and teachings of Jon Kabat-Zinn, Dr. Aaron T. Beck, and Steve de Shazer, among others. Their contributions have enriched my understanding of mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and positive psychology. I have an eclectic therapy approach customized to each client's unique needs. By prioritizing this, it ensures the maximum effectiveness of treatment. Change happens when individuals are met with empathy, understanding, and unconditional positive regard. When they feel genuinely heard and supported, they can explore their inner selves, challenge limiting beliefs, and develop new perspectives and coping skills. Change also occurs through collaboration, where the therapist and client work together as a team toward achieving meaningful goals. A great moment in therapy happens when a client has a breakthrough realization that shifts their perspective and allows them to break free from self-limiting patterns. Witnessing this moment of insight and its positive impact on the client's well-being is truly rewarding and reaffirms the power of therapy. Clients who get the most out of therapy with me are open-minded, motivated, and actively engaged in the therapeutic process. They are willing to explore their thoughts and emotions, challenge themselves, and embrace change. Collaboration and a strong therapeutic alliance are crucial for productive and successful therapy outcomes. Ultimately, I aim to provide a non-judgmental and compassionate space for clients, promoting their overall well-being and supporting them in their journey of personal growth and positive change.

Type of Therapy: Individual
Session Type: Virtual only
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, Spanish

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: Virtual only
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English, Russian, Spanish, Bulgarian

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Orange County
Population Served: Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English, Spanish
Michael Soto is a licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in the areas of traumatic stress and relationship counseling. He is the founder of BAVOY Mental Health Counseling PLLC, a professional counseling agency in Middletown, NY.
Having graduated from Alliance Graduate School of Counseling in Nyack, NY, with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, he holds certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management, is a Certified Trauma Professional, a Certified Family Trauma Professional, is trained in the Gottman Method of Therapy, Heartmath, and EMDR.
Michael works with individuals specializing in healing traumatic stress injuries and other emotional traumas. Michael is a 10 United States Marine Corps veteran, started EMS in 1992, and joined the fire service in 2011. Michael also lectures, discussing the topics of stress, trauma, and mental toughness. He also consults with agencies to build solid peer-support teams and trains personnel in peak performance and mental toughness through cognitive performance initiatives for the first responder. His training focuses on maintaining mental health and building ongoing resiliency in this uniquely demanding profession, addressing issues such as the wear and tear on first responders and how to stay healthy from both physiological and psychological standpoints.

Type of Therapy: Individual
Session Type: Virtual only
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English
I believe in the whole person. I believe that we are a product of not only our family values, but our environment, interpersonal relationships, goals, ambitions and ultimately our overall perspective of life. I believe mental health healing can be attained through a deep and impactful processing of these factors and how they either promote healthy functionality or significant struggle. Recognizing triggers, and utilizing appropriate coping alternatives can lead to not only holistic wellness, but valid and reliable strategies in the maintenance of mental health.
I believe in the whole person. I believe that we are a product of not only our family values, but our environment, interpersonal relationships, goals, ambitions and ultimately our overall perspective of life. I believe mental health healing can be attained through a deep and impactful processing of these factors and how they either promote healthy functionality or significant struggle. Recognizing triggers, and utilizing appropriate coping alternatives can lead to not only holistic wellness, but valid and reliable strategies in the maintenance of mental health.
My framework provides a look at mental health through the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model. A unique and expressive way in understanding the complete individual. My specialties include but are not limited to; Anger management, anxiety, depression, stress management, children/adolescent issues, and trauma.
Are you tired of feeling alone in a world where everyone seems normal. Are you afraid to speak out due to socio-economic or societal stigmas, are you confused about the next phase of your life? I provide unconditional positive regard, empathy, and active listening to provide a non-judgmental world to be your authentic self. So come and be you.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, Spanish
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or self-doubt — wanting to feel more grounded, confident, and connected in their relationships and daily lives. They may be navigating loss, life transitions, or ongoing stress and are ready to understand themselves on a deeper level, find balance, and create meaningful change.
With over 25 years of experience, I provide a supportive, collaborative space to explore your thoughts and emotions with care. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, and relationship issues. My integrative approach draws from CBT, psychodynamic, person-centered, and strength-based therapies to help you find clarity and growth.
As a bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist, I bring a culturally sensitive perspective that honors your unique story and values. Reaching out for support takes courage — together, we’ll work toward healing, resilience, and a more authentic, fulfilling life.

Type of Therapy: Individual
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Queens County
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, Ukrainian, Russian, Polish

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English
My name is Marilyn Green, LCSW-R, BC-TMH. I have worked in the social work field for over twenty five years. I received my Masters of Social Work degree from Fordham Graduate School of Social Work in 1993. I have been in private practice for more than twenty years. I was awarded "Social 'Worker in the Trenches" of the year award in 2001 from the Hudson Valley Division of NASW.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Teens, Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family, Groups
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English
Jenna McKean is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey and Connecticut, and a Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) with over 15 years of experience in the field of behavioral health. She is also a Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Skills Counselor and has extensive expertise in crisis counseling, inpatient substance abuse treatment, and outpatient services.
In addition to her clinical work, Jenna has spent over eight years in leadership roles within hospital settings, where she has developed patient-centered programs, optimized workflows, and enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration. She holds specialized certifications as a Clinical Supervisor, Trauma-Informed Therapist, Peri/Postnatal Bereavement Specialist, and LGBTQIA-Affirmative Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, further demonstrating her commitment to inclusive, specialized care.
Jenna views counseling as a collaborative partnership between clinician and client. She tailors her therapeutic approach to each individual, integrating evidence-based treatment techniques such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).
Jenna works with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and families, providing compassionate support for a wide range of life stressors and challenges. She is dedicated to creating a comfortable, open, and safe space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered in their journey toward healing and growth.Her commitment lies in understanding each client’s unique needs and helping them achieve meaningful, lasting change. Jenna is eager to support you in exploring new insights and growth.

Type of Therapy: Individual
Session Type: In-person & Virtual
Location: Westchester County
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English, French, Haitian-Creole
I have always been passionate about helping people. While my childhood dream was to become a lawyer, working as a paralegal made me realize that it was not the right fit for me. It was then that I enrolled in a counseling program and discovered my passion and purpose for listening to people, making meaningful connections, and assisting individuals in discovering their purpose through healing.
Throughout my experience, I have worked in foster care agencies and community-based mental health facilities. Working in community-based mental health facilities has helped me be more culturally aware of people’s needs as they relate to achieving mental wellness. I am trained in CBT, motivational interviewing, and DBT. Learning about complex trauma has been most impactful on my approach to healing.

Type of Therapy: Individual
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual.
Location: Orange County
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English
Dean Scher has worked in the field of human services in the Hudson Valley for more than 50 years.
From 1973 to 1995 he was employed as a psychologist and the director of psychiatric emergency services at Arden Hill Hospital Mental Health Unit. During that period, he was also a Lecturer in the psychology department at SUNY New Paltz.
From 1995 through 2006 he served as the executive director of Restorative Management, a for-profit organization licensed by New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services.
From 2006 through 2021, Dean served as the Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities of Orange, Sullivan and Ulster.
Dr. Scher has lectured nationally on issues of adverse childhood experiences and PTSD. His research has been published in the Journal of Child Sex Abuse and the Journal of Scientific Research. Dean has maintained a part time private practice since 1974.
Dean has two grown children. He resides in Westtown, NY, with his wife of 52 years.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Teens, Adults
Languages: English
I am a New York and Connecticut Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over 25 years of experience in the Mental Health field. I hold an MSW from Fordham University as well as a Law Degree from Pace University. I work with children, teens, adults and couples. I focus on providing a comfortable and safe environment, conducive to learning and maximizing the benefits of coping skills. Utilizing an array of therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and Solution Focused therapy. I personalize treatment to meet your needs.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, Spanish
Dr. Carmen E. Elizondo LCSW-R/Psy.D is a top bilingual/multicultural Clinical Social Worker with a passion for the field and unwavering commitment to her patients. Licensed in Florida, New York, and Texas, Dr. Elizondo is an expert in helping people maximize their potential and becoming the best version of themselves. Dr. Elizondo’s vast and versatile experience in the field makes her a prime example of a true leader in mental health care. As a leader and expert in her field, Dr. Elizondo is passionate about enhancing patient quality of care. She embodies the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Wilton, Connecticut
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, French
Finding an experienced therapist to help you work through your problems is important. Without getting the right care, it may be difficult for you to function effectively. My goal is to provide attention and care with respect to your Catholic faith beliefs for any problems you may be encountering.
Every patient is treated as a unique individual, not a name on a chart. With training and expertise in many modalities of treatment, I adapt the treatment to fit the individual needs of each client with special emphasis on respecting his or her uniqueness as I help them heal and/or grow to reach their full potential.
With over 30 years experience, I provide therapy in such areas as: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Teen and Parent/Child Therapy, Pre-Marriage and Marriage Counseling, Work & School Problems, Career, Behavioral Issues, and Addictions.
Contact me for your therapy, counseling, and life coaching needs and you will find a caring and professional therapist and/or coach to help you live a happier, healthier life.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family, all over 18 only
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Dutchess County
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English
Joan Cybulski LMHC, NCC, MAC, CASAC-G, LPN, EAS-C, ICOGS, CMHC(M) received her Master’s in Counseling from Pace and her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Mercy. While she volunteered with Mothers Against Drunk Driving in the 1990’s she implemented a grief support group. Her CASAC was obtained in 1998 and then her CASAC-G specializing in gambling treatment in 2007 continued in 2016 to obtain her International Co-Occurring Gambling Specialist. Her past experiences include being a Director of Addiction Services in a Partial Program in NJ. She also worked in a Methadone maintenance treatment as an LPN. During her years of clinical experiences, she had worked in various spectrums of Human Services. She was a Counselor for FEMA during the 9/11/2001. Since 2008 she has been working in private practice with 3 Offices: Verbank, New Paltz and Poughkeepsie. Being an Employee Assistance Provider, she believes in solution focused methods Her knowledge of Suboxone was obtained while working in CT as well as NY. Lastly, she is the Secretary for the Board of Behavioral Health of Dutchess County
Licenses & Certifications:
LMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor
NCC National Certified Counselor
MAC Master Addiction Counselor
CASAC-G Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor with Gambling
LPN Licensed Practical Nurse
Employee Assistance Counselor
ICOGS- Internal national Co-Occurring Gambling Specialist
CMHC Clinical Mental Health Counselor (Military)

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: Virtual only
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of diverse experience, and I continue to evolve in new treatment models. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples alike. I have specialized training in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and women's issues. In my approach to individual therapy, I utilize treatment methods such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Strength Perspectives.
As a therapist, I create a warm, supportive, compassionate environment in sessions for my adults. Everyone needs a safe place with no judgment zone. I provide supportive, motivational, professional, and encouraging therapy to help and guide you to live your life better.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Richmond County (Staten Island)
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English
I am trained in providing Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Clinical Approaches to the Addictions, Clinical Work with Adolescents and Advanced Clinical Practice. I am also a New York University approved Field Instructor for Clinical Supervision. I have extensive experience in working with Family and Children Services.

Currently not accepting new clients. Actualmente no acepta nuevos clientes.
Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults
Languages: English, Spanish
Riquelmy Lamour is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides compassionate, faith-integrated psychotherapy grounded in the Catholic understanding of human dignity, hope, and healing. She believes every person is created with inherent worth and is capable of growth, restoration, and meaningful change.
Riquelmy is Latina and bilingual in English and Spanish (habla español), and she offers a culturally responsive, welcoming space for clients to explore emotional, relational, and spiritual concerns. Her therapeutic style is relational and collaborative, emphasizing trust, genuine connection, and respectful integration of faith when desired.
She has been in clinical practice for eight years and earned her Master of Social Work from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College in 2017. Riquelmy is licensed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
Her approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and evidence-based. She works with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, faith-related struggles, and life transitions.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Westchester County
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, Spanish

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Teens, Adults. Older Adults
Languages: English
Hey there, I'm Kim! A passionate clinical social worker on a mission to help individuals and families make sense of their journeys and find more fulfillment. I earned my Master of Social Work at Widener University; my journey has taken me from Texas to Colorado and now to the lively streets of New York City, where I’ve lived for the past 5 years.
With a background in Human Nutrition and certification as a Health Coach, I offer a holistic perspective on mental health and self-acceptance. As a former Family Advocate, I've been there to provide vital support to clients, linking their families with the community resources they need to flourish. I also have a personal and professional compassion for those experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, effects of childhood trauma, and family/relationship issues.
My approach is to help you understand the roots of your behavior and desires, drawing from your own attachment styles and childhood patterns. I blend elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions-focused therapy, and culturally aware practices to tailor a plan that fits your unique goals. But overall, my approach is built on curiosity, warmth, and understanding.
Together, we’ll work towards self-discovery and growth. I hope to empower my clients to be consistently reflective on their own lives… with me providing support along the way!

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults
Languages: English, Spanish
In addition to holding a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from CUNY Hunter College, I bring nearly a decade of experience as a Certified Peer Support Specialist. I have worked alongside individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions. These experiences reinforced my belief in collaboration, authenticity, and client-driven recovery, as well as the importance of recognizing and building upon each person’s strengths.
As a first-generation New Yorker, bilingual, with Hispanic roots, I bring both cultural depth and personal experience to my work as a therapist. From the ages of 4 to 16, I spent summers living with a Mennonite family in Pennsylvania. Those cross-cultural experiences taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of safe spaces, values that guide me in supporting clients from all walks of life.
My therapeutic style is person-centered, strengths-based, and flexible, drawing from CBT, DBT, and other evidence-based modalities. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can feel seen, and work toward meaningful growth. Whether you are seeking relief from overwhelming emotions, clarity in relationships, or a space to simply be heard, I am committed to walking with you on your journey toward healing and empowerment.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Adults only
Languages: English

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: The Bronx
Population Served: Teens, Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English, Spanish
Therapy can be awkward. Sharing your inner thoughts and feelings with a stranger can be scary. You might worry about being judged, misunderstood, or getting exposed. You might even have some bad experiences with a former therapist and are afraid of trying again. "Will this therapist understand cultural/family quirks?" "Will they think I am crazy if I share my religious experiences?" I get it! I help my clients work through anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, relationship issues, parenting problems, and spiritual concerns. This includes scrupulosity, religious trauma, and the spiritual/cognitive aspects of behavior.
If you have never been to therapy before, I can walk you through a 10-15 min. consult on how to navigate the complicated world of obtaining mental health services. Our first session will be an intake so that I can get to know you a bit. Ongoing sessions can be held once a week, biweekly, or even monthly. Yo hablo Español!
I can be described as warm, prudent but direct, and humorous. I am genuine and comfortable with learning from my clients and embrace feedback.

Type of Therapy: Individual
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Rockland County
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English
I believe that psychotherapy is an important step in providing individuals with tools and techniques to better cope with thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are causing them distress.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience. I provide both telehealth and in-person sessions. I work with adults over 18 years of age. I believe that the therapist-client relationship is paramount to the therapeutic process. Therefore, I provide an environment that is empathetic, and non-judgmental so you can feel safe to express yourself.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Meditation. My approach is person centered and holistic. I am committed to assisting clients with coping strategies to help them better deal with anxiety, depression and issues of grief. I also see the benefits of journaling to help unlock the answers that are within each individual. Together we can process thoughts and feelings and discover how past experience influences current issues. Therapy is a collaborative partnership and there is a need for work to be completed between sessions to practice the skills learned and to solidify the gains being made. Change is possible.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults
Languages: English, Spanish
As a dedicated bilingual clinician specializing in youth, family therapy, and couples counseling, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I create a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their feelings and develop effective coping strategies.
My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, combining evidence-based techniques with a holistic perspective. I believe that every family and relationship has unique dynamics, and I work collaboratively with my clients to uncover strengths and foster communication.
In youth therapy, I engage young clients through relatable methods, empowering them to express themselves and build resilience. For families and couples, I focus on enhancing connection, improving communication, and resolving conflicts in a constructive way.
I am committed to supporting you on your journey towards healing and growth. Together, we can work towards a more fulfilling life and healthier relationships.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Dutchess County
Population Served: Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English

Currently not accepting new clients
Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family, Groups
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Westchester County
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English
Inspired by an 9/11/2001 experience at Ground Zero, Gae transitioned from a 35-year career as a professional fundraiser to become a NY State licensed clinical social worker certified death, dying and grief counselor (Fellow in Thanatology (FT) by the Association of Death, Education and Counseling (ADEC).
Gae, Founder, Mindful Heart Counseling Services, is a private grief counseling practice in Westchester, NY. Gae provides a presence of accompaniment for individuals grieving the death of a loved one as well as facilitates a variety of ongoing, open bereavement support groups.
As a seasoned grief counselor, Gae creates client-centered, empathetic therapeutic relationships anchored in culturally-sensitive and personal strength-based strategies. Gae actively listens as she supports and comforts grievers in a safe, non-judgmental space. This approach invites individuals to identify, process and integrate the full range of normal grief emotions despite the death circumstance.
Throughout the year, Gae facilitates a variety of ongoing support groups: Addiction Bereavement Support Group; Spousal/Partner Bereavement Support Group; COVID Bereavement Support Group; Understanding Suicide Grief: Survivors Bereavement Support Group. Gae also led the Westchester Medical Center’s WMCHealth Post COVID-19 Recovery Program Support Group.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English
As a mental health professional, I believe that everyone has the ability to be the best they can be, develop a healthy sense of self, create a happy and productive life and stand strong. I encourage and help clients problem solve, develop self confidence and positive beliefs of self worth. In turn, this impacts relationships with others that foster positive and loving interactions. Having a background in communication sciences further enhances my professional skills.
I hold two Masters degrees. The first, in communication disorders. I developed a speech and language rehabilitation program at an acute care hospital and served as its director for 17 years. Concurrently, I consulted at various health venues. I returned to school to pursue another Masters in Social Work. My primary focus is to help individuals and couples develop better understanding of who they are as individuals as well as how they engage with one another. At the core of human interactions is communication of feelings, needs and self worth.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Teens, Adults
Languages: English
My therapeutic approach is evidence-based and trauma-informed. I draw from a number of modalities specific to your needs. Therapeutically, my goal is to hold space for your process of unpacking where and how your blocks show up. Together, we will navigate the process of identifying where and how your patterns perpetuate. I like to collaborate with my clients on how best to address their obstacles behaviorally, by building manageable strategies and coping skills.
We deserve careful attention to all the different pieces of ourselves. In therapy, we have the chance to uncover and discover our own inner wisdom as we engage in the healing process. It’s been my experience that the right support can be life changing.
I have a background working in crisis counseling, mental health and wellness groups, and life coaching. I earned my bachelor's degree from Hunter college where I majored in psychology and minored in religion, and later earned my masters in clinical social work from Columbia School of Social Work.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Orange County
Population Served: Adults, Older Adults.
Languages: English
Gerilyn C. Sestok is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R), Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD), and Postgraduate Trained Certified Core Energetics Practitioner (CCEP). She received her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Hunter College in New York City. For 20 years, Gerilyn worked as a psychiatric social worker in a community psychiatric hospital in New York. She has been in private practice for 25 years in Highland Mills, NY and has been a Core Energetics Practitioner and Exceptional Marriage Mentor (EMM) for the past 10 years. Gerilyn is dedicated to supporting the resilience of the human spirit driven to live its full potential in joy and compassion for itself and others.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Couples, Family
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English, Spanish
I am licensed in New York with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Family
Session Type: Virtual Only
Population Served: Teens, Adults
Languages: English, Spanish
Navigating life’s challenges can often feel daunting and overwhelming, especially when you're weighed down by past experiences or current struggles. If you’re feeling lost or burdened by emotional pain, it’s important to know you're not alone. As a compassionate therapist, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can begin to heal and work through these emotions. Together, we’ll navigate your journey, uncover your strengths, and empower you to overcome obstacles, so you can lead a more balanced, fulfilling life.
I’m a licensed psychologist with 20+ years of experience helping individuals manage mental health challenges. My holistic approach combines evidence-based methods and compassionate, client-centered care. I specialize in treating adults with depression, anxiety, and issues related to past trauma or current life stressors.
I understand how hard it can be to reach out for help, especially when you're facing difficult moment, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you're managing anxiety, healing from past trauma, or navigating a major life change, my aim is to empower you to regain a sense of control over your live and move toward greater fulfillment and mental wellness.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Teens, Adults, Older Adults
Languages: English, Mandarin
I’m Jessica, a graduate of the Mental Health Counseling Program at Columbia University’s Teachers College. Born and raised in an East Asian culture, I spent most of my adulthood in the United States where I pursued my undergraduate and graduate studies. The cultural and value differences between the East and West taught me to find a balance in diverging views and conflicting principles. In today's society, where we are flooded with an abundance of information, this balance-seeking approach will be the key to my approach in counseling.
As a firm believer that people function as both individuals and as a part of their social network, I prefer working with my clients together to tailor a set of practices that would best serve their personal and social needs. I find value in all empirically-based therapeutic frameworks and would prefer to use a multifaceted approach that best accommodates the cultural and situational needs of my clients. I will do my best to accommodate their needs, whether they prefer a fast, solution-oriented approach, a more elaborate and process-focused modality, or even a combination of both. Through a collaborative process, I will help my clients find their balance and achieve the best mental health outcome.

Type of Therapy: Individual, Family
Session Type: In-Person & Virtual
Location: Manhattan
Population Served: Children, Teens, Adults
Languages: English, Spanish
I believe that the therapeutic process flourishes in a safe, empowering and non-judgmental environment. I strive to build and maintain this environment; one where you can embark on a healing journey. By exploring difficult subjects or events, deep seated trauma, or thoughts that may never have been said out loud, we will work to resolve and challenge any cognitive distortions or distressing memories. We will work to bring insight and awareness into those thought distortions or relationship patterns that may have been formed from past experiences to overcome them and bring acceptance and inner growth.
I am a bilingual Mental Health Counselor in English and Spanish and received my master’s degree from City College, CUNY. I have worked with individuals, adolescents, and families from a diverse range of backgrounds for last 7 years. I have experience with an array of clinical issues, including chronic stress and anxiety, trauma, PTSD, mood disorders, family or origin issues, self-esteem and self-worth, along with those experiencing academic challenges. I welcome LGBTQAI+ and BIPOC communities into my therapeutic setting. I am currently working as a Site Coordinator and Therapist in a school-based program offering counseling services to adolescents in NYC Public Schools.
I incorporate a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities in the treatment process, that are tailored to each individual. I have experience working with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy. Irrespective of the modality, my approach is trauma informed and strengths-based. My goal is to guide you through your healing journey and continue to provide a warm, collaborative and empathetic environment seeking empowerment and improvement in your personal life. The healing/growth process may not always be the most comfortable, but there is nothing more empowering than reaching your capacity to heal and recover.