Therapists in New York

Barbel Paredes

Barbel Paredes, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Barbel Paredes, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with ten years of experience in Cognitive Behavior Therapy. My goal is to help you understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so you can break free from helpful patterns. Together, we'll work on practical strategies to manage challenges, build resilience, and create lasting positive change in your life.

Denise Cooney Zajkowski

Denise Cooney Zajkowski, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living in New Jersey . I received my Masters from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Work. I have over 20 years of clinical experience. My practice is centered on working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, burnout and depression. We work together as a team to create a plan that best work for you.

Christie DeBruce

(she/her)

Christie DeBruce, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker conducting sessions virtually in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Nevada. I specialize in people that are going through tough times and need coping skills to manage. Life might have thrown you curve balls, and you might not be accepting of the uncertainty and the change. I'll be here to tell you that bad situations can be temporary and life changes can also be great. I specialize in helping people who fall down but get back up. I'll help you to talk about your feelings and help you to make treatment goals that you have been wanting to reach.

Yesenia Rivera

Yesenia Rivera, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
26 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 26 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and children from various backgrounds in community mental health clinics and private practices. I understand that having the courage to seek help can be challenging. I believe in the importance of establishing a safe therapeutic relationship. I am here to support you by applying my knowledge and expertise to help you identify the core of your difficulties and effectively cope with your challenges. I use evidence-based tools that empower you to improve your overall functioning.

Jennifer Baez

(she/her)

Jennifer Baez, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
With over 17 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in helping teens, young adults, and women navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, or major life transitions, I provide a compassionate and supportive space where you can explore emotions, build coping skills, and create lasting change. I understand that feeling stuck or overwhelmed can be frustrating, and sometimes, you may not even know where to begin. That’s where I come in. My approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered techniques, mindfulness, and strength-based modalities, allowing me to tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work to identify triggers, develop effective coping strategies, and implement behavior modifications that empower you to move forward. Beyond techniques and strategies, I believe in the power of connection. Therapy is not just about working through struggles—it’s about feeling heard, validated, and supported. My mission is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings while gaining insight into your journey. I am passionate about working with women, particularly women of color, as I deeply understand the importance of cultural identity and lived experiences in the healing process.

Lyudmla Gonk

Lyudmla Gonk, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
I worked for 15 years in a hospital, providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy. I had the privilege of working with clients from all over the world, with different backgrounds and of various age groups. Currently, I transitioned to work privately providing telehealth therapy. I believe compassion, caring, and the therapeutic alliance are most important in the helping process. These are the core values informing my practice. I use a gentle and creative approach in guiding my clients on their healing journey. I draw from various therapeutic approaches depending on the clients' needs, stage of therapy, and mental health issue. For example, for Bipolar disorder, I combine interpersonal, supportive and CBT modalities in a collaborative and empathic setting. Most importantly, I believe that compassion, openness and acceptance, build a strong therapeutic alliance, key to maximizing a client’s successful outcome.

Kristina Howard

Kristina Howard, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Kristina Howard and I am an experienced therapist. I received my Masters in Social Work from Adelphi University in 2010. Since graduating, I have worked in the field of community mental health (Care Manager, Day Treatment as a therapist and Director, Helpline Counselor, Geriatric Psychotherapist and Hospital Social Work Case Manager) Recently, I shifted focus to include Maternal Mental Health and Health & Wellness Coaching to support women during the Perinatal phase of life.

Marisa Marinelli

Marisa Marinelli, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
There are times in life when we struggle and feel hopeless. We try our best to be resilient, but sometimes we need help in finding our inner strengths and developing strategies to move forward. I am here to help encourage and support you to break general patterns to move you toward your goals. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions.

Allyson M Puzzo

(she/her)

Allyson M Puzzo, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
11 years of experience
Virtual
Allyson attended Temple University for undergraduate school where she studied Psychology and Criminal Justice. She attended John Jay College in New York City where she obtained two Master's degrees in, Forensic Psychology and Mental Health Counseling. She started her career within the Mental Health field about 10 years ago and enjoys helping others. She started her career working with children ages 7-16 doing in home Behavioral Modification Therapy.  After two years and a desire to expand her skill set, Allyson shifted her client base. Allyson began working with teenage to young adult boys with whom were both mentally ill and in chronic Foster Care. She did intense individual and group therapy with them as well as Behavior Modifications. While working with these young men for over 3 years she also trained staff in Behavioral Modification techniques, Boundaries adherence and Self Awareness. Allyson also has also worked in the capacity of supervising staff in areas surrounding, Mental Illness, and Substance Abuse. Allyson has worked to counsel families and parents going through difficult times including their struggles around Mental Illness. She continues utilizing her skill set while also expanding doing different Mental Health consulting. Today, Allyson specializes in behavioral modification for children ages 3-16 as well as counseling for all ages 8-17 for people suffering with depression, relationship issues, anxiety, and PTSD.

Jill Smith

(she/her)

Jill Smith, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both New York and New Hampshire. I have been practicing for the last 23 years, working with clients of all ages. For the last few years I have been working solely with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, history of trauma, adjusting to life changes and stressors. My clients have often told me that I am able to give them a new perspective they have never considered, or that it was just nice to have someone listen to them.

Christopher Smith

(he/him)

Christopher Smith, LP - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LP
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have worked with clients presenting with a variety of therapy concerns. I work with clients on helping them identify the concerns they would like to work on. We come up with therapy goals to help address those concerns. We discuss how to address those goals and how to prioritize those goals so that we can work on things in a manageable manner.

Rachele Cowen

(she/her)

Rachele Cowen, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
I have over 15 years of psychotherapy experience as an LCSW-R based in NY. I enjoy working with ages 12 and over focusing on life transitions, anxiety related concerns, sports performance, as well as many other areas of need. I want to help clients find the best version of themselves and be able to find success in their treatment goals.

Jon Ugalde

(he/him)

Jon Ugalde, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Jon Ugalde is a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with 10 years of experience. Jon’s clinical experience has been with those who are going through “Life’s Transitions” including those who are struggling in adolescence due to substance use or another mental health concern, college students whose mental health inhibits their success, parents working to develop their parenting skills, identity concerns (gender, sexuality, etc.), and those who are transitioning from active addiction and substance abuse to recovery and remission. Jon has additional clinical experience working with individual dealing with depression, anxiety, communication issues, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, and more.

Lisa Alberty

(she/her)

Lisa Alberty, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York. I am Puerto Rican, bilingual (Spanish and English), and have been conducting psychotherapy sessions for the last 6 years. I have experience working with people of all races, backgrounds, ages, and socioeconomic status. My approach to therapy is meeting a client where they are, what their goals are for therapy, and I remind them that they are the expert of their life (knowing themselves the best). Mi nombre es Lisa y soy trabajadora social clínica autorizada en el estado de Nueva York. Soy puertorriqueña, bilingüe (español e inglés) y he realizado sesiones de psicoterapia durante los últimos 6 años. Tengo experiencia trabajando con personas de todas las razas, orígenes, edades y niveles socioeconómicos. Mi enfoque de la terapia es encontrar al cliente dónde se encuentra, cuáles son sus objetivos para la terapia y recordarle que eres el experto de su vida (conociéndose mejor a sí mismo).

Jada Albright

(she/her)

Jada Albright, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm a licensed mental health counselor with the privilege of supporting individuals, couples, and families through the unique challenges life can bring. Over the years, I’ve helped clients navigate a variety of transitions, including divorce, marriage, dating, and other significant life changes. These moments can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through them alone. Together, we’ll work to help you manage, adjust, and move forward with greater clarity, resilience, and confidence.

Charlene Mahan

(she/her)

Charlene Mahan, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I am a license mental health counselor licensed in Florida, Georgia, New York and DC. I obtained my degree from Troy University in Orlando, Florida. I have 14 years of experience working with clients. I have experience helping teens (13-17 years) and adults (18 years and older) manage their feelings of anger, anxiety, depression, career exploration/change, increase their self-esteem and others.

Keisha Cox

Keisha Cox, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
I am an LCSW with a private practice in NY and CT. I have earned a BA in Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, both from New York University. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages with a focus on cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, strength based and mindfulness approaches.

Rebecca Schavrien

(she/her)

Rebecca Schavrien, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
21 years of experience
Virtual
I am a passionate professional with 20 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I have had the great privilege of working with people from a variety of backgrounds in a variety of settings. This gives me a great experience and perspective into how to best support those who I work with. It also means there are few things I haven't seen, heard or experienced. It is a great honor to be able to bare witness to people's stories and support them on their journey of self discovery and personal growth.

Marian Mikhail

Marian Mikhail, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, My name is Dr. Sister Marian Mikhail Doctorate of Min., L.C.P.C. Advanced, PhD Clinical Pastoral Counseling, M.Div., LMHC, LPC, M.A. Rel. Ed. I am a licensed therapist in New York and New Jersey with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

Denika Desert

(she/her)

Denika Desert, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Seeking help takes a lot of courage, shout out to you for taking that first step! I am here to support and empower you as you put the pieces together and find your way. Let's start this transformative journey together. With empathy as our compass and action as our guide, let's work towards the positive changes you seek. Your path to personal growth begins here

Lorenz S Angeles

(he/him)

Lorenz S Angeles, LP - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LP
1 year of experience
Virtual
Lorenz fosters a safe space with cultural humility, integrates evidence-based practices with psychological theory, and uses more than a decade of experience in behavioral health to empower clients as they venture towards wellbeing. With years of experience fostering behavioral change with children on the autism spectrum, teenagers, young adults, and older adults across a variety of settings including private practice, residential treatment centers, inpatient hospital units, outpatient treatment centers, community mental health units, and secure treatment facilities, Lorenz strives to understand what you bring into and what you want out of treatment, so you can work towards wellbeing and the achievement of your goals.

Margarita Prensa

(she/her)

Margarita Prensa, LMFT - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in NY and Connecticut. I have over a decade of experience working with adults and women's mental health. I help clients struggling with depression, anxiety, codependency, perfectionism and self-esteem challenges. Becoming a therapist has been a lifelong journey for me. I began my career in social services, supporting children and families. While this work felt fulfilling, I longed to support my clients in a deeper and more meaningful manner, which led me to become a licensed therapist. Providing counseling to clients in mental health settings provided me with valuable experience and cemented my desire to help people struggling with their mental health. I continue to engage in growth and learning, expanding my knowledge in the somatic and experiential therapies, mindfulness and inner child healing work.

Carolyn Mahany

(she/her)

Carolyn Mahany, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York State with 9 years of experience assessing and treating mental health concerns. My background is in community mental health, which means I have a wide-range of knowledge and experience with many demographics and conditions. As a mental health counselor, my passion lies in providing compassionate and effective support to individuals navigating the challenges in life. I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences without judgment. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. This allows me to tailor your sessions to meet your unique individual needs. Through evidence-based practices and a holistic perspective, I strive to empower you to cultivate resilience, develop coping strategies, and walk with you through your journey to insight and healing.

Christie Cunningham

(she/her)

Christie Cunningham, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
*Please note that the Grow Therapy calendar is not flexible and as a result does not reflect my full availability - if you schedule with me I will contact you as soon as possible to work out a consultation time (a free, 15-20 minute conversation to see if we seem like a good fit for therapy)* I work from a Feminist Therapy perspective, in a way that seeks to minimize the power imbalance inherent in clinical settings, centers the client’s story in our work, recognizes that the client is the expert on their own life, and helps the client identify their own sources of power. I use a mix of Acceptance & Commitment, Narrative and Existential therapy.

Kathleen Ringel

Kathleen Ringel, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am an LCSW with extensive experience in supporting individuals through grief, loss, and illness. Drawing on a deep understanding of the emotional complexities surrounding life’s most challenging transitions, I provide empathetic care and evidence-based interventions tailored to each client’s unique needs. I work to empower my clients with the skills they need to navigate these changes. I am licensed in NYS and hold an additional certification in Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy.

Eliana Bonaguro

(she/her)

Eliana Bonaguro, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who believes in walking alongside you during life's twists and turns. My passion is helping you feel seen, heard, and supported as you navigate through life difficulties, relationship or mental health challenges. Together, we can work through those moments when life feels overwhelming, and find ways to move toward growth and healing. I’m also pursuing certification as a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP) because I recognize how deeply connected our mental and physical well-being are. This journey allows me to bring holistic tools—like nutrition, lifestyle changes, and integrative approaches—into our work together, supporting you in creating a balanced and fulfilling life. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you feel empowered to explore your thoughts and emotions. Whether you’re facing a major life transition, grappling with past trauma, or simply looking for clarity and peace, I’m here to help you navigate your unique path with care and expertise.

Tara Hayes

(she/her)

Tara Hayes, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Tara Hayes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Yoga Instructor. She is the owner of Mind & Mat Therapy Services LLC, a private practice specializing in psychotherapy counseling as well as private therapeutic yoga and meditation instruction. She comes with more than 8 years of experience providing mental health support and services. She has worked in various therapeutic settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient community behavior health clinics and private counseling practices. She completed 200 hours of yoga teacher training in the School of Integrative Yoga Therapy in 2019. She works with clients of all ages affected by depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, substance use and relationship challenges. Tara goes above and beyond to focus on the unique needs of each individual. Her passion lies in helping people to know their power in healing themselves emotionally and functionally to move with more joy and ease in life.

Kathleen Foster

Kathleen Foster, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
12 Academy Stre...
I am a seasoned therapist with over 16 years of experience, specializing in Trauma-Informed, Compassion-Focused, Culturally Sensitive, and Strengths-Based approaches. My passion lies in supporting individuals through their healing journey, drawing on a deep understanding of how past experiences shape current behaviors and emotions. I am committed to creating a safe, inclusive space where clients can explore their strengths, build resilience, and work towards a more fulfilling life

Troy Brown

Troy Brown, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
As you turn the pages of your story on the journey of healing, building, or restoring, let’s write your next chapter together of new beginnings with optimism for your future. With every “mindful solution”, there is a mustard seed of hope. My passion is providing individuals with the tools and skills to obtain a balanced life. I work with clients to help them address concerns related to anxiety, depression, anger management, relational issues, trauma, racial trauma, gender exploration, burnout, parenting, internet/social media & gaming dependency, and stress management. My treatment approaches are person-centered so each client can meet their goals. I utilize different modalities depending on my client’s presenting problem, but I enjoy using CBT, strength-based, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness. If you’re interested in any of the services offered, please send an appointment request. I can’t wait to speak with you!

Uri Marcus

Uri Marcus, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
3 years of experience
Virtual
I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist dedicated to helping clients navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop new coping strategies, and work toward meaningful change. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based techniques to support your personal growth and well-being.

Chaya Sara Choen

Chaya Sara Choen, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
I am a family counselor licensed in New York, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Utah with over 15 years of experience working as a Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, social anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and emotional abuse. I provide telehealth therapy and am flexible with the time needed to meet the clients individual schedule

Rachel Ann Khan-McCroy

(she/her)

Rachel Ann Khan-McCroy, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am a female therapist with over ten years of experience. I became a therapist as I have always been drawn to helping professions. I went to Manhattanville College for two years, and then transferred to the CUNY BA Program for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies. I graduate with a degree in Social Work with Vulnerable Populations and Contemporary Global Issues. I then went to the NYU Silver School of Social Work and received a Masters in Social Work, and did the Zelda Fellowship in Palliative and End-of-life Care. For more context, my first year internship, I spent interning at Talbot Hall, a (now closed) correctional facility in NJ. In my second year, under the Fellowship, I interned at the NY and Brooklyn Veterans Hospital. I worked with Brightpoint (now Sunriver Health), then at NY Presbyterian Hospital (doing inpatient, then outpatient care), and now am in private practice. I believe it's an honor to hear about the lives of others. I am also married, and have young children. I grew up in a large family. I have grown and lived in the NY/NJ area. Some personal background: I love to write, cook, bike, swim and am a vegetarian.

Robyn Houlihan

Robyn Houlihan, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
Robyn Houlihan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York, with over 20 years of experience in social services. Her career encompasses a broad range of roles, including supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness and severe mental illness, mobile crisis response teams, and clinical psychotherapy for both children and adults. Robyn has held positions in direct practice as well as leadership roles, consistently demonstrating expertise in complex clinical and organizational settings. Robyn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Psychology from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a Master of Social Work from Fordham University. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) at the University of Kentucky, where her research focuses on women in leadership and women’s health. In addition to her clinical work, Robyn runs a private practice dedicated to supporting women’s health and well-being. She also serves as a Senior Social Worker at a community mental health center within a Brooklyn hospital, where she specializes in intake assessments, diagnosis, and crisis intervention. Robyn is an active member of two peer support teams, furthering her commitment to empowering and support health workers and prevention of burnout.

Sheriffa Gallwey

(she/her)

Sheriffa Gallwey, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
29 years of experience
Virtual
I have over 25 years of experience working with clients to address concerns stemming from anxiety, depression, grief, family and relationship issues, career changes, and other various stage-of-life concerns. My clinical area of focus involves Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Stress Management. Through discussion and exploration with you, we will develop a working plan to address your needs and goals.

Ayanna Ferguson

(she/her)

Ayanna Ferguson, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Ayanna Ferguson, a licensed child and family therapist born and raised in New York. I am inspired by the transformation I see in the lives of those who participate in therapy. Throughout my 15 plus years of experience working in clinical, educational, and health settings, I have developed an effective therapeutic style. I use the process of teaching, learning, guiding and supporting those I work with as they take steps towards growth and improve the quality of their overall health and well being.

Kalliopi Cabarcas

(she/her)

Kalliopi Cabarcas, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I have over 9 years of experience providing therapy and in a variety of settings including inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics and telehealth platforms. I have treated individuals with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, life transitions and stress. I also have a passion for maternal mental health and able to work with those experiencing postpartum and peripartum mood and anxiety disorders. I am also familiar in working with those who have suffered perinatal loss and infertility. My belief is that therapy is a collaborative process. I will work with you by creating an individualized plan to help achieve your goals! My years of experience have given me a wealth of knowledge on how to treat various mental health concerns.

Dr. Kimya Ligon

(she/her)

Dr. Kimya Ligon, LP - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LP
25 years of experience
Virtual
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. Let me help you live ON purpose and WITH purpose. As a licensed psychologist and solution focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life worth celebrating! I will support you via faith-based counseling approaches, positive psychology methodologies, self-advocacy and empowerment!

Wilza Descardes

Wilza Descardes, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a compassionate therapist who specializes in supporting women particularly those in their mid to late 20s and early 30s. I help my clients navigate compassion fatigue, burnout, work-life balance, and life transitions while fostering self-esteem, emotional resilience, and a sense of purpose. Through approaches like compassion-focused, attachment-based, and trauma-informed care, I create a safe and supportive space where you can reconnect with your strengths, build healthier relationships, and take confident steps toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Benjamin Schafler

(he/him)

Benjamin Schafler, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Over twenty years experience helping adults, children, and adolescents overcome obstacles to greater happiness and success. I bring out and support the special qualities of each and every person at their own level, and provide support, insight, understanding and practical solution focused guidance and assistance. If seasoned professional input regarding school, career, family, relationship, behavioral or personal progress could be of benefit, please contact me to discuss how I can help https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/benjamin-p-schafler-counseling-psychotherapy-long-beach-ny/44937 to discuss how I can help.

Mildred Simplicio

(she/her)

Mildred Simplicio, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
Meet me! I am a skilled and caring mental health therapist and CASAC -M. As a motivated, compassionate professional, I will extend support to you through your journey toward healing, personal growth, and well-being. At the crux of my practice, stands the goal of creating safe and empowering spaces for everyone to grow and thrive through an integrative, person-centered approach.

Julie A. Aquilato

Julie A. Aquilato, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
34 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and thanks for looking at my profile! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with an R, which mean I did 6-years post-Master's experience under the supervision of an LCSW, and I can bill under Medicare and Medicaid. I attended New York University and received my MSW degree in 1992. I have 34 years of experience in many different disciplines. I have supervised students in social work internships and social workers in NY obtaining their clinical licensure. I have worked with people across the lifespan. For 18 years, I was a college Adjunct Professor at Fordham University and CUNY. so I work well with college-aged adults too.

Danielle Mascarelli

Danielle Mascarelli, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I have always had a passion for helping people become the best version of themselves. I have been practicing in the field for over 6 years and have worked with individuals facing various life issues and challenges ranging from anxiety and depression to PTSD and substance use disorder. I aim to use a person-centered approach to meet your individual needs.

Shakira Maldonado

(she/her)

Shakira Maldonado, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Shakira Maldonado, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York and Florida. I support adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. My work is rooted in helping clients reconnect with themselves, gain clarity, and build a life that feels more grounded, empowered, and aligned with who they truly are. I offer a warm, collaborative, and culturally responsive approach to therapy. No two people are the same, which is why I tailor each session to your unique needs. I draw from evidence-based practices like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, and somatic techniques to help you explore the root of your struggles and move toward healing in a way that feels meaningful and manageable. Many of the individuals I work with come to me feeling emotionally stuck — whether that’s in their personal life, their career, or their relationships. You might find yourself constantly overthinking, struggling to set boundaries, or repeating cycles that leave you feeling defeated. In our work together, we’ll explore these patterns with curiosity and compassion, not judgment. I also support clients navigating grief, childhood wounds, family dynamics, identity issues, and burnout. If you're someone who has always felt the need to "hold it all together" for others, therapy can be the space where you finally get to be held. Whether you’re new to therapy or returning after time away, you’re welcome here. My goal is to help you feel more connected — to yourself, your values, and the life you want to build. Healing is not a straight line, but you don’t have to walk it alone. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Melissa Glenn

(she/her)

Melissa Glenn, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello my name is Melissa and I believe that the interactions that we have can have a lasting impact on someone’s life, therefore, I strive to engage with people in a positive, nonjudgmental, empathetic, and understanding manner. I have clinical experience in collaborating with individuals in multiple settings such as outpatient treatment in which substance use disorders, behavioral issues, and mental health were addressed. In this capacity, I also provided caregiver support whether it be a significant other, parent, or child. I also have clinical experience working in a medical capacity where I provide support to individuals and their families who are adjusting to and/or having difficulty adjusting to medical diagnoses. Throughout my career, I have worked in the aforementioned capacity as well as provided support to foster parents in addition to parents whose children were placed into foster care. In addition to me being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the following certifications: DASA Certification, Identification & Reporting of Child Abuse and Maltreatment Certification, School Violence Prevention and Intervention Certification, Mental Health First Aid, Trauma Informed Care, CASAC-T, CTMH pending, and CCATP pending.

Toshi Francis

(she/her)

Toshi Francis, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Dr. Toshi Francis has worked in the field of social service for over 18+ years, dealing with all aspects of work-related trauma, depression, anxiety, and medical trauma(prenatal/postpartum). Dr. Francis is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in business administration. She also graduated from Adelphi University’s MSW program and Capella University with a PhD in psychology. Dr. Francis is recognized as a leading workplace mental health scientist.

Arthur Chen

Arthur Chen, LP - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LP
15 years of experience
Virtual
Dr. Arthur’s practice specializes in treating individuals and families with a variety of disorders and life struggles. His main clinical focus is on depression/anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, severe mental health, and coming of age issues. He is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional – Level 2 and is intensity trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy for the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. He is also a Trained Military Assistance Provider. In addition, Dr. Arthur has also received training in Exposure with Response Prevention (ExRP) for the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder. Moreover, he has also provided continuing education units to other mental health professionals.

Diana Holton

Diana Holton, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, Diana Holton is a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist. Diana specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, relationship challenges, and women’s issues. Diana’s passion for mental health advocacy began early in her life, inspired by her own experiences with trauma and the positive impact of therapy. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Ethics and a Master of Social Work from Penn West University.

Gary Pustel

(he/him)

Gary Pustel, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
3 years of experience
Virtual
If your negative thought loops have impacted your life in some way, you're not alone - you're human. I view therapy as a chance to address and improve the thinking patterns that keep you down for longer than feels healthy. My aim is to help directly confront these problem areas and construct short- and long-term goals that help bring about healthy change.

Richard De La Garza

(he/him)

Richard De La Garza, LCSW - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Richard De La Garza is a licensed clinical social worker. His educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from San Jose State University and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Columbia University, and he is currently in pursuit of a Doctorate in Philosophy of Leadership from the University of San Diego. His research intersects multicultural facets of underrepresented first-generation, non-traditional, veteran, and disabled persons and is committed to social justice and culturally competent care. His experience includes working in a variety of settings including the US Army, as a direct commissioned officer for active-duty servicemen. Richard has provided consultation for a non-profit board of directors, case management for a community mental health clinic, and facilitated government partnerships across the military and Palo Alto VA. Richard aligns with a holistic therapeutic approach that is person-centered, psychodynamic, narrative, cognitive behavioral, solution-oriented, integrative systems, and storytelling. Richard's leadership style reflects traits like being bilingual, amiable, and tenacious. Richard strives to expand self-awareness to recognize everyone should be a learner who is capable of growth and redemption. Richard is also trained to provide EMDR therapy.

Nicole Harris

(she/her)

Nicole Harris, LMHC - New York Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:Cigna
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
My personal experience has taught me that change can be stressful and uncomfortable and that there are some things in life that we do not have control over. My belief that people are resilient and can navigate through the hard times in life with support is what drew me to my area of focus. It has also deepened my passion for the counseling process. I have worked in several settings, such as hospitals, mental health agencies, and substance abuse clinics, which has helped shape my practice by enhancing my ability to understand my clients’ needs in regard to progress in treatment. I am also trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, which has enhanced my ability to recognize symptoms of trauma and understand how they may impact a client and act as an obstacle that keeps them from moving forward.