Our Team

Our Clinicians

Jacqueline Powell, MSW, LCSW

Owner/ Clinical Director

As a licensed clinical psychotherapist, I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy to support individuals through life's most difficult moments. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, intrusive thoughts, relationship challenges, or simply seeking clarity, empowerment, or personal growth, you deserve a safe space to heal and thrive. I am here to walk alongside you in that process.

My therapeutic approach is integrative, strengths-based, and collaborative. I believe in tailoring treatment to each client's unique needs by combining clinical expertise with genuine connection. My goal is to help you build emotional resilience, gain insight, and develop practical tools that foster long-term stability and fulfillment.

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Family and Child Studies with a minor in Psychology, along with a Child Advocacy Certificate, from Montclair State University. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from New York University (NYU). I am a proud member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), a Certified School Social Worker, and a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an evidence-based modality proven effective in treating trauma, anxiety, and distressing life experiences.

Throughout my career, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in diverse clinical settings, including public schools, community mental health centers, and in-home therapy programs. I have supported individuals from all cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds and deeply respect the role that identity, family systems, environment, and lived experience play in shaping one's emotional world.

Whether you are seeking to heal from past pain, cope with present challenges, or build a more meaningful future, therapy can be a powerful space for transformation. I am committed to providing a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered.

Mi compromiso como terapeuta es ofrecerle un espacio seguro, empático y sin juicios donde pueda explorar sus desafíos, reconocer sus fortalezas y avanzar hacia el bienestar que merece. Creo firmemente que usted es el experto de su propia vida, y mi papel es acompañarlo con herramientas efectivas, apoyo terapéutico y una guía profesional que impulse su crecimiento.

Mi enfoque es colaborativo e integrador, incorporando también EMDR, una terapia efectiva para experiencias traumáticas, ansiedad y recuerdos difíciles. Trabajaremos juntos desde un lugar genuino y práctico, respetando su proceso personal y construyendo estrategias que promuevan sanación y estabilidad emocional.

Si desea programar una breve consulta telefónica para conocer si podríamos ser una buena conexión terapéutica, no dude en comunicarse conmigo. Si no contesto, es probable que esté en sesión - por favor deje un mensaje y me pondré en contacto con usted lo antes posible.

Veronica A. Martinez, LSW

Bilingual Clinician

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.

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, LAC

Bi-lingual 

As a bilingual, first-generation Peruvian American, I bring a deep appreciation for the role identity plays in shaping each person's lived experience. In my work with clients, I lead with empathy, curiosity, and unconditional positive regard, creating a supportive space where individuals feel seen, understood, and empowered. I approach therapy through an intersectional lens, honoring diversity and the unique identities each person carries.

My integrative therapeutic style draws from psychodynamic, humanistic, and person-centered approaches. I incorporate strength-based techniques as well as CBT, DBT, and motivational strategies. Using a holistic and trauma-informed framework, I support clients in navigating interpersonal relationships, identity exploration, systemic or personal trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Whether you are seeking support in processing emotions and trauma or navigating day-to-day challenges, my goal is to empower you in reaching your personal goals, building self-awareness, and embracing your authentic self.

I hold a Master's in Mental Health Counseling and Wellness and a Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology, both from New York University.

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.

Stephanie Munoz, LSW

Hello, I’m Stephanie Munoz, a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in New Jersey and New York, dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families through life’s challenges with compassion, practical tools, and evidence-based care.

I hold a Master of Social Work from NYU’s Silver School of Social Work and a Master’s in Psychology from Walden University, along with a Graduate Certificate in Special Education. Over the years, I’ve worked in schools, inpatient crisis units, and community mental health settings, supporting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, and behavioral challenges.

I have served as a Psychiatric Social Worker at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center’s Children’s Crisis Intervention Services (CCIS) Inpatient Unit, providing crisis stabilization, psychiatric evaluations, counseling, and family support. I’m also an Intensive In-Community (IIC) therapist for Holistik Therapy within the New Jersey Children’s System of Care, offering in-home therapeutic services to children, teens, and their families. Prior to this, I worked as a Behavioral Assistant, which strengthened my skills in behavior management and crisis intervention.

In addition to my clinical work, I’m a parent coach. I help parents build stronger, healthier relationships with their children through practical strategies, positive communication, and supportive guidance — especially during times of stress, transition, or behavioral challenges.

As a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish), I’m committed to making sure every client feels heard, respected, and understood in a safe and welcoming space.

How I Can Help

I specialize in crisis intervention, trauma, behavior management, family therapy, and parent coaching. I draw on approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients of all ages build resilience, healthy coping skills, and a renewed sense of hope.

Whether you’re an adult seeking support for stress or anxiety, a parent wanting help navigating your child’s challenges, or a teen needing someone to listen and guide you — you don’t have to face it alone.

Marie Bolona, LSW

Everyone's challenges are unique-and so are their strengths. I take a warm and empathic approach to connecting with each individual and understanding their experiences. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them navigate their emotions, practice coping skills, and tap in to their inner resilience to adapt to life's challenges and stressors.

I have experience working in private and community settings, supporting adults managing anxiety, depression, grief, substance use, vision loss, and chronic illness. I have supported adults of various ages, ethnicities, cultures, gender identities, and sexual orientations.

I believe clients should be the experts of their own journeys, and I take an eclectic approach to supporting them in exploring the pathway toward achieving their goals. I empower clients by facilitating self-discovery and empowering them with education. Evidence-based interventions I draw from include Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness.

I am a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey. I obtained my Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University-New Brunswick. I also have a Bachelor's degree in Theatrical Design & Production and Spanish from Elon University.

Yesenia Ramos, MSW LSW

Bi-lingual Clinican

Hello, I'm Yesenia Ramos, MSW, LSW, a queer, bilingual Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey with nearly a decade of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families. I specialize in working with children ages 4 and up, adolescents, parents, and families, with a focus on early childhood development, school-related concerns, and emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges through a trauma-informed lens.

I earned my Master of Social Work from Fordham University and hold a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from William Paterson University. My background includes hands-on experience supporting children and families in early childhood programs, public and charter schools, child welfare services, and community-based settings, collaborating closely with families and multidisciplinary teams.

I provide compassionate, affirming care in a safe and welcoming environment and work closely with parents to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and build confidence in managing challenges at home and school.

As a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish), I offer affirming support to LGBTQ+ individuals and families and use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) along with strengths-based, solution-focused, developmentally appropriate approaches to help children and families build emotional regulation, resilience, and effective coping skills. Together, we can work toward meaningful and lasting change.

Ximena, Intern

Hello! My name is Ximena and I am a graduate student pursuing a Master's degree in Social Work. I'm currently completing my clinical internship, where I am gaining hands-on experience supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges.

I earned my bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Rutgers University-New Brunswick, where I developed a strong interest in understanding human behavior and the factors that shape people's experiences.

I am passionate about helping individuals through difficult moments while recognizing opportunities for growth and resilience. My goal is to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences, exploring their emotions, and working toward meaningful change.