Our Clinicians
Jacqueline Powell, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Director, Bilingual
As a professional psychotherapist I offer counseling, support and empowerment, and help you to navigate through the most challenging times in your life. If you experience stress, anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, unstable relationships, or just want to feel fulfilled, empowered, or happier in any area of your life, I am here for you. I carefully guide you to obtain necessary coping skills to achieve your personal goals and emotional stability in all areas of your life.
Bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Studies with a minor in psychology and completed the Child Advocacy certificate program all from Montclair State University.
Masters of Social Work degree from New York University (NYU) I am a member of the National Association of Social Worker. A certified school Social Worker. Currently licensed as a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey.
My background includes working with children, adolescents, adults and families in a variety of clinical settings including public schools, community mental health and in-home therapy. I have worked with individuals/families from all religions, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds, who come from all different walks of life.
My approach is integrative, collaborative and active in focusing on the issues identified. My experiences within the field have taught me about diversity, culture, intricate family systems, how environment and biology play a role in how we learn, function, and behave.
Mi objetivo, en esta relación, es proporcionar orientación que destaque sus fortalezas que lo ayudarán a lo largo de su progreso. Usted es la clave del éxito y la motivación para alcanzar sus objetivos y metas. Agradezco sus comentarios para que sea una parte integral durante esta relación terapéutica. Entiendo que la persona que mejor te conoce eres tú. Mientras trabajamos juntos para alcanzar sus objetivos, trabajaré con usted de manera sincera, práctica y sin prejuicios.
Si desea hacer una breve consulta telefónica, para determinar si encajaría bien no dude en ponerse en contacto conmigo. Por favor, deje un mensaje ya que puedo estar en sesión.
Erika Repoli, MSW, LSW
Clinician
Erika obtained her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Felician College in Lodi, NJ. After graduating, she went to pursue her Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. She has her License in Social Work in the State of New Jersey. She is a member of the National Association of Social Workers.
As a practicing Social Worker, Erika incorporates mindfulness into her practice, while utilizing CBT and DBT skills to guide individuals towards their goal. Erika has experience working with individuals with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and other mood disorders as well as working with individuals with various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. By providing individuals with a safe and secure environment, Erika's approach is to meet clients where they are and provide them with the coping skills to improve their emotional well-being.
Jennifer Muñoz,MSW,LSW
Clinician
Hi! My name is Jennifer Muñoz, and I am a Licensed Social Worker in NJ and NY. I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a double minor in Criminology and Substance Use Disorders from Ramapo College of New Jersey. I also received my Master's degree in Social Work from Ramapo College. As a therapist, my goal is to provide clients with a safe space to feel comfortable and empowered to work towards their personal goals. I use a person centered and strength-based approach in therapy and focus on my client's individual needs and aspirations.
Throughout my career I have worked in a variety of settings, including
community mental health, corrections, and hospitals. I have worked with individuals with substance use disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. I utilize CBT/DBT and mindfulness within my practice and tailor my approach based on my client's needs.
Mental health is a crucial part of our overall well-being and I hope you find comfort in taking this step with us.
Lhia Rivero, LPC
Bi-lingual Clinician
Hola! My name is Lhia Rivero. I am Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ. My first language is Spanish. I obtained my bachelor's degree in Psychology at William Paterson University and my Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Rutgers University. I have been in the mental health field for several years, which has helped me obtain experience in crisis response and stabilization, partial care, in-home and outpatient therapy. I have worked with children from 4years old up to 21, as well as adults over 21. My experience is based mainly in assistance with managing Depression, Anxiety and history of Trauma. I enjoy expressing positivity and looking at the Bigger Picture.
Hola! Mi nombre es Lhia Rivero, actualemte estoy licenciada en el estado de NJ. He estado trabajando en el area de salud mental por un tiempo y he tenido la dicha de ganar experiencia con respuesta de crisis, estabilizacion, cuidado parcial, y terapias en casas y en oficinas. He trabajado con edades desde 4 a 21 años, al igual que con adultos mayores de 21. Mi experiencia ha sido mayormente asistiendo el manejo de la Depresion, Ansiedad e historial de traumas. Disfruto lo que hago cada dia, me considero optimista y tiendo a expresar los beneficios de ver la luz al final del camino.
Veronica A. Martinez, LSW
Bilingual Clinician
Hello! My name is Veronica, I am a licensed social worker in the state of New Jersey. I am a self-reliant individual with a genuine passion in supporting individuals and families deal with special life circumstances. As a clinician, I show patience, respect, compassion, empathy, and possess excellent people and communication skills.
I have a lot of experience working with families and caregivers of children with special needs. I’m myself a parent of teen-ager with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); could relate to the stressors, obstacles, worries, discrimination, and the additional roles and responsibilities placed on individuals of children with special needs and/or mental health issues. I could help my clients improve their outcomes, aiming to help them lead full and fruitful lives.
My educational background includes a Master of Social Work degree from New York University (NYU). A Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in public administration from Rutgers University. An associate degree in Human Services/Pre-Social Work from Hudson County Community College.
One of my approaches to help my clients is the utilization of the strength’s perspective. This approach allows clients to focus on their abilities, talents, and resources instead of their problems and deficits. I also incorporate cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness within my practice. More importantly, I personalize my approaches to address my client’s needs.
“Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, It’s about learning to dance in the rain”
Vivian Greene
Virgdant Breton, LSW
Bi-lingual clinician
As your psychotherapist, my primary goals are to listen to you, empower you, and provide you with the education and resources to walk beside you on your journey to accomplishing your goals. My clinical style involves different elements of talk therapy that include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy catered to your strengths, life experiences, environment, and objectives. Change starts with you!My background includes work with children (ages 5+), adolescents, young adults, and adults seeking to alleviate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, borderline personality disorder, adjustment disorder and many others.
I obtained a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Human Development with a Family Life emphasis from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. I received a Master’s in Social Work degree with a Clinical Social Work concentration from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. I am Latina, currently a member of the National Association of Social Workers, and licensed as a social worker in both New Jersey and New York.
“Como trabajadora social y su terapista, mis objetivos principales son escucharle, capacitarlo y brindarle la educación y los recursos para caminar a su lado en el camino en su jornada hacia lograr sus metas. ¡El cambio comienza con usted! Mi estilo clínico incluye diferentes elementos de la terapia de conversación. Mi experiencia incluye trabajo con niños (mayores de 5 años), adolescentes, adultos jóvenes y adultos buscando aliviar los síntomas de trastorno de ansiedad generalizada, trastornos depresivos, trastorno de estrés postraumático, y muchos más. ”
Denese Duran, LSW
Bi-lingual Clinician
Hi! My name is Denese Duran I graduated from Kean University with a Masters in Social Work in 2021, holding a Bachelor of Science in International Business from Berkeley College, Certified Alcohol and Drug counseling certificate, and Human Service Career certificate.
I am a Bilingual Licensed Social Worker in the state of NJ. My background consists of Behavior Assistant and IIC with families and children with mental health disorders. I have also worked with co-occurring mental health in Intensive Outpatient facilities with populations within the Boarding Homes, Homeless shelters, Youth Facilities, and Substance abuse facilities. I have treated disorders like Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Autism Spectrum, and Post Traumatic Disorders.
I am a very supportive and compassionate woman who practices from a Strength-based perspective with all clients. My approach is Client-Centered with a focus on CBT-based practices to utilize mindfulness and affirmations to develop confidence in the therapeutic process. I have knowledge working with diverse populations considering cultural competency at all times.
I am here to collaborate with you on your objectives and assist you with your therapeutic journey.
Joselin Reynoso, MSW, LSW
Bi-lingual Clinician
Hi, my name is Joselin Reynoso I am a bilingual licensed psychotherapist in New Jersey and pending licensure in New York. I graduated with a bachelor's degree in social work from Lehman College and a Master's in social work from Fordham University in New York. I have worked with clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, PTSD, and childhood trauma. I have a few years of experience doing marriage counseling and relationship. I understand the importance of meeting clients where they're at and creating a safe and comfortable environment to open up and tell their stories. I love building rapport with my clients and helping them take control of their emotions and lives.
I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in creating a happier and better future for yourself.
Hola mi nombre es Joselin Reynoso, Soy una psicoterapeuta bilinguel lincensiada en el estado de New Jersey y esperando la licensiatura de New York. Me gradue con una licensiatura en trabajo social de la universidad Lehman College en New York y con una Maestria de trabajadora social de la universidad Fordham University del estado de New York. Yo e trabajado con clientes que an experimentado depresion, anxiedad, TEPT y trauma infantin. Tengo algunos anos de experiencia dando consejos de matrimonios y relacion. Entiendo la importancia que tiene encontrar el cliente donde esta y crear un espacio comodo y seguro para que puedan abrirse y contar sus historia. Me gusta construir una relacion terapeutica con mis clientes y ayudarlos a que tomen control de sus emociones y sus vidas. Espero conocerte pronto y poder assistirte en crear un feliz y mejor futuro para ti.
Melissa Camano
Welcome! My name is Melissa Camano and I am a licensed social worker in NJ and NY. As your therapist, my initial goal is to secure a trusting, collaborative relationship for our therapeutic process. Nothing is more important for me than to make sure my clients’ feel comfortable, listened to, and respected. We will work together on making sure we work on your identified goals and tailor them to your growing needs. My approach when working with individuals really varies on the presenting issues going on. I am very supportive, empathic, and focus on my client’s strengths in order to help them overcome their issues. I like to provide a safe, nurturing space in order to engage them in the process of healing. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, need assistance in processing life events or experiences, or just feel “stuck”, I am here to help guide you and develop the tools you need to become fulfilled in your life.
Throughout my career as a social worker, I have worked in a variety of settings including social (community outreach and in-home), school, and healthcare settings that have given me an opportunity to work with a diverse population and learn the skills to provide individualized, culturally competent care. My past experiences working with maternal and child health population, children and adolescents with behavioral/crisis issues, adults with chronic mental health disorders, and high-functioning adults/families have proven my abilities to adapt to any situation in order to meet the needs of my clients.
Siendo hija de padres inmigrantes, entiendo las luchas que familias y individuales pueden pasar. Puede confiar en mí como su terapeuta para sentirse validado y escuchado, y nosotros trabajaremos juntos para lograr las metas que le gustaría lograr.
License and State: 44SL06402400 NJ, 105107 NY
Priscilla Mota, MSW, LSW
Bi-lingual Clinician
Hello, my name is Priscilla Mota, and I am a first-generation American born to Dominican parents. Born and raised on the Upper West Side of New York City, my experience as a bi-lingual Latinx prepared me for the many challenges of navigating different spaces while maintaining my own identity. I am a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey. I attended the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University in New York City to receive my Master’s in social work. I have spent the last 15 years working to mobilize and empower my community members to become active in the change they want to see in their lives. My experience working with children, teenagers, and adults has led me to a career in therapy and has prepared me to work with people living with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. I like to meet clients where they are by providing tools to help empower them during their journey to wellness.
May De La Cruz, BA,MA-MHC, LAC
Bi-lingual Clinician
Allow me to meet you where you are in the process of "figuring it all out". I am passionate about helping clients find themselves and see things from a better and different perspective. I want clients to understand their emotions and where they are coming from. I work with clients to apply healthy ways of coping with their stress, thoughts and feelings. I love to help clients decode the root of what causes the emotions, learn to take better care of themselves and get a better grip of life and make choices that suits their needs and soul. The ultimate goal is to live your best life despite the circumstances. Also, you want to be proud of who you see in the mirror every day.
I am licensed in the state of New Jersey as a Licensed Associate Counselor. I received a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and Wellness from New York University (NYU). Also, I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
I promote the need to reduce the stigma of therapy in the African American and Latinx community. I advocate the need of providing counseling to men as well. Also, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults that had different therapeutic needs such as for depression, anxiety, heartbreaks/divorce, panic attacks, grief, relationship & family issues, trauma and for life functionality purposes to say the least. I have offered counseling to assess their current condition, needs, strengths, and weaknesses.
My therapeutic approach is based on the individual and family needs. I may utilize different approaches such as Mindfulness-based therapy, Strength-based therapy, CBT, DBT, Motivational-based therapy and but not limited to Emotion-focused therapy.
Coming to therapy is the fist step that will lead you to "focus on your enlightenment".
Embrace the journey!!!!
Karina Mena, LSW
Bi-lingual Clinician
My name is Karina Mena. I am a licensed social worker in New Jersey. I earned my bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Rutgers University. Subsequently, I obtained my master's degree in Social Work from the Hunter College School of Social Work in New York City.
I have experience providing counseling to children and adolescents in a variety of settings, both within the community and in schools. In my most recent role as an intensive in-community clinician, I provided therapeutic services to children and their caregivers. Utilizing a strengths-based perspective, I have successfully assisted clients and their families in reaching their fullest potential by giving them the tools necessary to process and manage challenging emotions and life transitions.
To achieve the best possible outcomes, I empower and educate my clients to assist them in developing coping skills to address their mental health needs. My approach involves collaborative work with clients to enhance their overall quality of life.
I offer emotional support and guidance to my clients dealing with adjustment issues and significant life changes. In addition to employing a strengths-based approach, I integrate other treatment modalities, including CBT and DBT. I am here to assist you in identifying your desired goals and recognizing your own resilience.
Jennifer LaMarca, LSW
Clinician
Hi! My name is Jennifer Muñoz, and I am a Licensed Social Worker in NJ and NY. I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a double minor in Criminology and Substance Use Disorders from Ramapo College of New Jersey. I also received my Master's degree in Social Work from Ramapo College. As a therapist, my goal is to provide clients with a safe space to feel comfortable and empowered to work towards their personal goals. I use a person centered and strength-based approach in therapy and focus on my client's individual needs and aspirations.
Throughout my career I have worked in a variety of settings, including community mental health, corrections, and hospitals. I have worked with individuals with substance use disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. I utilize CBT/DBT and mindfulness within my practice and tailor my approach based on my client's needs.
Gabriela Diaz, LSW
Clinician
Hello! My name is Gabriela Diaz, and I am a bilingual Licensed Social Worker based in New Jersey. I have a BA in Psychology from Kean University and a Master's Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, where I also earned a Certificate in LISTA (Latino Initiative for Service, Treatment, and Assessment). This certification allows me to provide culturally informed and responsive services to Latina/o/x populations.
In my practice, I take a holistic approach to therapy, prioritizing active listening and empathy to build a trusting relationship with my clients. My goal is to empower individuals by understanding their unique challenges and strengths, working together to achieve personal goals and foster growth. I am fully committed to delivering compassionate and effective support by utilizing techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and personalized mindfulness practices to meet the unique needs of my clients. My deep passion lies in making a positive impact and providing dedicated support to help you succeed.
Nicole Bañales, LSW
Bi-lingual Clinician
Hello! My name is Nicole Bañales, and I am a licensed social worker in New Jersey. I embrace questions of identity and belonging, especially around culture and sexuality. I have worked extensively within the immigrant community and with survivors of domestic violence. My work as a therapist and social worker focuses on a trauma-informed psychodynamic lens. This means that I work with my clients to understand the patterns in their lives, how they served them in the past, address any harm that occurred, and then adapt those patterns to live in the here and now.
I graduated with a Master's of Social Service from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research. Previously, I received my undergraduate degree in Sociology from Swarthmore College.
Maryfer Perez-Mestanza
Bi-lingual
Hello! My name is Maryfer Perez-Mestanza. I am a bilingual first-generation Peruvian American. I am currently a student of New York University's Mental Health Counseling and Wellness Master's Program. I am currently working towards my license as a Mental Health Counselor. I have also earned my bachelor's degree in Applied Psychology from New York University as well.
As an intern, my goals include providing an inclusive and safe environment that promotes diversity and exploration of identity. My aim is to assist clients in meeting their goals and support the empowerment of each individual.
Michelle Soto, LAC
Bi-lingual Clinician
Hi! I'm Michelle Soto, a bilingual licensed school counselor and licensed associate counselor based in New Jersey. With over a decade of experience helping youth, I specialize in working with individuals ages 4-18, though I am open to clients of all ages. My career has included teaching internationally and living in diverse communities, which has enriched my counseling approach and broadened my understanding of various cultural perspectives.
I take a humanistic approach to therapy, grounded in empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a strong belief in each person's potential to grow and transform. My practice integrates techniques from multiple therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), allowing me to tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs.
At the core of my work is the creation of a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions and gain deeper insight into themselves. I view therapy as a process of integration-helping individuals align their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a way that supports their personal growth and healing in the here and now. I am here to be your "co-pilot," guiding you on your journey toward self-discovery and well-being.