Julia Andino
Over the years, I have developed a unique and evolving perspective on mental health with the understanding that there is no neutral context from which we work. Either we are working to maintain the status quo, or we are working to change it. In this regard my work and practice are shaped to provide access and space to those that have been marginalized or whose voices have been silenced by the mental health industry.
I bring to this practice a cross-cultural emphasis aimed at ensuring that all communities, regardless of color, have access to services. My efforts are designed to create a new paradigm that addresses specific community-cultural issues while at the same time addresses the universal needs of all communities. My work encompasses a multi-faceted approach and includes the individual, family and community.
The approach draws on a range of modalities including a framework developed by the Grief Recovery Institute as well as nutrition and wellness, mindfulness therapy, EMDR therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Creative Expressive Arts, and understanding of Neurobiology. We work with clients gain the skills needed to move from life challenging to life-affirming actions and behaviors using culturally appropriate modalities.
Received my B.A. from the University of Puerto Rico and MSW from Columbia University School of Social Work; and, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with the R-privilege, in the State of New York. Presently, I continue as an Adjunct Professor at CUNY City College-Center for Worker Education challenging pedagogical frameworks in response to the student body.
Rosa M Colon
For the last 35 years, my commitment has centered in working with participants in the substance use and HIV/AIDS field. And, for the past 20 years, as a Research Associate, collecting data nationwide for various grants funded by NIH and SAMSHA. As a result, I have traveled around the nation presenting at conferences and doing training on Substance Use and Harm Reduction for a good part of my career.
Being in recovery for the past 32 years, provides the context of my work as a Recovery Coach, and in supporting others in their journey. I believe that a person is in recovery when they say they are, as we expand the definition of recovery. The work is not only individually, as we help family members understand addiction, confront their fears and prejudices. Socially, it’s about confronting stigma and helping individual, and families understand addiction within the socio-economic and political world.
The journey is long, and the struggle is real, but I embrace the challenge of life on life’s terms understanding that I am not perfect and, just one of many. Facing new challenges and striving towards personal growth while enjoying peace and quiet with friends and family is my personal goal.
Native Yorker with a heart in Puerto Rico.
Joanna Ocasio-Janvier
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York State, and I have several years of experience working in behavioral health with the adult population. As a Certified Grief Educator, trained with David Kessler, and the Tender Heart Community, I bring a different approach in addressing grief and bereavement in providing a roadmap for grievers to feel not only supported but safe and seen, and to move forward in a way that honors their grief and their loved ones. My therapeutic approach for counseling is eclectic and derives from various approaches and styles such as cognitive behavioral therapy, problem solving therapy, supportive counseling, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, behavioral activation and person center therapy. I believe we all have the tools to become a better version of ourselves but sometimes we need the encouragement and guidance to do so. I will help you recognize that stumbling or roadblocks are necessary to build mentally and sometimes physically to get through life ups and downs. As an Emotional Landscaper, I will guide you in developing your roadmap and accompany you in this journey to live the best version of yourself.
Esther Polanco
For the past 18 years I have worked with the Child Welfare System in New York City and Westchester County, which provided a context of enriching experiences shaping my determination to continue working with families. Specifically, migrant families by offering mental health support within a cultural framework as they navigate their lives in New York. Using a trauma focused lens, I have been able to support a diverse group of individuals and families in their journey to this country; as well, as providing support to immigrant Latina women address their mental health during and after their pregnancy. As an Emotional Landscaper, it’s been an incredible experience to understand the emotional toll women and families endure and the resilience to live their life. I have an MSW from Fordham University.
Yubrainy Pascual
Hi, I am Yubrainy Pascual, I have a BA in Psychology and I am pursuing a Ed.M. in School Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University. I am a counselor and consultant, trained in effective therapeutic techniques, crisis intervention, family advocacy, counseling and psychotherapy, applied behavior analysis (ABA), comprehensive assessments for psychoeducational evaluations, among others. As a bilingual and bicultural person, I work with patients from a culturally diverse and multi-ethnic background like mine. I can connect with my patients using a culturally competent approach. My personal experiences as a newcomer, is one of the main reasons why I decided to pursue a professional career in the mental health and education field. My therapeutic sessions are client focused and I meet my patients where they are at. I enjoy challenging my patients to think through their problems in different ways and I support by suggesting new alternatives to help clients cope with their thought patterns and symptoms. I get a sense that my clients typically feel comfortable with my therapeutic style because I have been able to maintain a non-judgmental environment and strong therapist-client relationships.
Andreina Espaillat
As the Office Manager and Financial Manager, I am the first point of contact for our clients. In this regard, I prioritize our client’s health, and provide a nonjudgmental and safe space for clients to express their needs and concerns. Having a respectful and professional phone call with a potential client can make a difference in making them feel accepted and welcome. I am proud to be part of a professional team, which have created a multi-cultural and ethnic community in a safe and respectful manner. I believe in the essence of this practice as we continue to offer our clients the best of who we are. That’s why I am here! As I continue my education to become a CASAC-T, I want to offer my services to the community and put into practice what I have learned from this practice. I am grateful and honored to be part of this team.