Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Lura earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. Before joining PCC as a MSW intern, she worked with adults experiencing homelessness, adolescents at various LGBTQ-focused organizations, and came from a multidisciplinary science education background. She has experience working with immigrant communities, adolescents and young adults, couples, and families on issues of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and effects of past trauma.

Lura’s approach is trauma-informed, relational, person-centered, and strengths-based. She blends different theoretical orientations including psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Emotion-Focused techniques, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She practices empathetic non-judgement and seeks to provide a safe and accepting therapeutic environment. In addition to working as a psychotherapist, Lura is PCC’s Clinical Coordinator, working closely with interns and in hiring new clinical team members.

Please contact our Astoria office by phone to be put in contact with Lura to discuss any internship or employment-related inquiries.

As a dedicated mental health professional, I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with authenticity and openness. My approach is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses the capacity for growth, healing, and meaningful change, regardless of the challenges they face. Through compassionate guidance and evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with my clients to help them navigate life’s complexities and move toward greater emotional wellness.

I specialize in working with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, and life transitions. My therapeutic expertise also extends to treating persistent mood disorders, emotional regulation challenges, self-esteem concerns, and maladaptive coping behaviors. I have significant experience supporting clients through acute crises, particularly those involving self-harming behaviors, disordered eating patterns, and feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. I approach these situations with a blend of crisis intervention skills and long-term strategies aimed at building resilience and restoring a sense of personal agency.

My clinical style integrates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based interventions. This allows me to tailor each session to meet the unique needs of my clients, adapting techniques to their personality, pace, and goals. I believe in addressing not only immediate symptoms but also the underlying patterns and core beliefs that contribute to ongoing distress. My work is collaborative, meaning clients are active participants in shaping their treatment plan and tracking their progress.

I place a strong emphasis on building a therapeutic relationship based on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. I understand that for many clients, entering therapy can be a vulnerable and unfamiliar experience—particularly for those who are seeking help for the first time. I strive to create an environment in which clients feel heard, validated, and empowered to take steps toward the life they want to live.

My passion lies in helping individuals rediscover their strengths, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and foster a deeper understanding of themselves. Whether the goal is to heal from past trauma, improve relationships, manage overwhelming emotions, or simply gain clarity during a life transition, I am committed to walking alongside my clients every step of the way.

In addition to my work with individuals, I also provide support for couples navigating communication barriers, conflict, and relational strain. I help partners identify destructive patterns, build emotional intimacy, and create healthier ways of relating to one another.

Ultimately, my mission as a therapist is to offer guidance, tools, and insight that enable clients to not only manage their current struggles but also to cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness, resilience, and hope for the future. Healing is not a linear process, but with patience, compassion, and the right support, it is always possible.

Licensed Master Social Worker.

Specializations: Children (9-12), adolescents, adults, elderly, attachment-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), culturally sensitive therapy, crisis intervention, functional family therapy, Gestalt therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, person-centered therapy, play therapy, psychodynamic therapy, trauma-informed therapy, adjustment disorders, anger management, anxiety, caregiving, depression, divorce, grief/loss, loss of independence, parenting, PTSD.

Annie Wang, who uses she/her pronouns, completed her BA in Psychology from the University of California-Davis and an Ed.M degree in Mental Health Counseling from the Teachers College, Columbia University. Before joining PCC, she honed her skills working with young adolescents in China, addressing challenges such as anxiety, depression, and emotional disorders using psychodynamic approaches.

Rooted in psychodynamics and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Annie champions a person-centered therapeutic approach, emphasizing the creation of tailored treatment plans. She believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship, considering the alliance between therapist and client as essential to therapeutic success. With a focus on aiding young adults and adults in emotion regulation, Annie is particularly adept at managing anxiety and depression. Annie's cultural adaptability, paired with her proficiency in both Chinese and English, positions her to deliver therapy with sensitivity, bridging linguistic and cultural divides to ensure clients from diverse backgrounds feel genuinely understood and valued.

Ari earned her Master's degree in social work from Columbia University School of Social Work. Before joining Queens Counseling Center, she worked as a Consultant for the Health division at UNICEF and as a social worker in NYC Council serving the community of East Harlem and the South Bronx. She has experience working with immigrant communities, children, adolescents and young adults, and individuals coping with past and present trauma. 

Ari's approach is integrative, relational, dynamic, strength based and client centered. She blends modalities including  psychodynamic, narrative therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. She practices open-mindedness and radical acceptance in her therapeutic approach. In addition to working as a psychotherapist, Ari is part of a research team at Columbia University focusing on evidence based interventions for at risk populations.  

I am a Limited Permit Marriage and Family Therapist providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, as well as couples and families. My approach is collaborative and person-centered, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and music-informed interventions based on each client’s unique needs. I believe clients are the experts in their own lives and strive to create a supportive, welcoming space that builds upon strengths while supporting emotional insight and personal development. I primarily work with clients seeking support for anxiety, trauma, conflict resolution, and communication difficulties. I provide services in English.

A. Yeung (she/her) is in the final year of her Master's program in Mental Health Counseling at The City College of New York. Her therapeutic approach is person-centered, humanistic, and strengths-based, with an emphasis on empowering clients. She also incorporates elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Child-Centered Play Therapy into her work with clients of all ages. As an Asian American New Yorker, she strives to create an inclusive space for people of all racial, ethnic, gender, sexual orientations, and other social identities and backgrounds. Above all, she believes that every person deserves respect and a safe, non-judgmental space to be themselves and explore their past, present, and future.

Brianna is earning a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Mercy University. At PCC, she collaborates with individuals, children, adolescents, and families as they navigate relational challenges, life transitions, and emotional stressors. Brianna has experience supporting clients with concerns related to communication difficulties, boundary-setting, mood challenges, and family dynamics. Brianna’s approach is client-centered and systemic, grounded in the belief that individuals are best understood within the context of their relationships. She integrates Family Systems Theory, Collaborative Therapy, Bowenian Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to help clients identify patterns, strengthen communication, and foster healthier relationships.

Brianna is committed to creating a warm and supportive space where clients feel safe to share openly. She values authenticity and collaboration, meeting clients where they are while empowering them to work toward meaningful and lasting change.

Candice is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Board-Certified Clinician. She earned her Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Mercy College and graduated with Distinction. She has been in the Mental Health field for 9 years. She is currently a School Clinician and also works as a Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. She provides counseling for all age groups; however, specializes in child and adolescent therapy. 

Candice’s passion for Mental Health began during her years in undergrad. She has always had a passion for counseling others. She believes that helping people work on themselves allows them to develop better insight regarding their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Candice enjoys being able to connect with an individual from an emotional aspect and allow them to talk about/ gain insight into various components that affect them physically, mentally, and emotionally. Candice states “I think I’ve achieved something when someone is able to take what they learned through counseling, workshops etc. and apply/utilize those particular skills, strategies or resources to their everyday lives.” 

Her treatment Modalities include working with children (ages 5-17), adolescents, adults, family therapy, child/parent psychotherapy. She is CBT Certified, provides culturally sensitive therapy, crisis intervention, person-centered therapy, play therapy certified, psychodynamic therapy, ADHD, and treats presenting issues such as adjustment disorders, anger management, anxiety, child abuse, depression, divorce, parenting, preventative/foster care, PTSD, sexual/physical abuse.

Cici (Yinxi) (she/her) is a bilingual therapist, fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago, with specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT),
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as trauma-informed approaches. Since 2016, Cici has been offering mental health support across various global settings. Clients and colleagues often describe her as compassionate, approachable, and someone they can truly trust and connect with.

Cici deeply values each person’s unique journey and believes in the healing power of mindful, heart-centered listening. Her therapeutic approach is warm, nurturing, and focused on creating a safe space where people can feel grounded and supported.

In recent years, Cici’s work has primarily been in hospital settings and higher levels of care (Intensive Outpatient Programs & Partial Hospitalization Programs). Cici has been helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief/loss, life transitions, past and current trauma, and chronic illness/pain. She has experience working with individuals, couples,
and groups, with a focus on supporting adult clients.

Before becoming a therapist, Cici studied art and film philosophy, earning degrees from the University of Cambridge and New York University. While she no longer works directly in the arts, she continues to believe in the importance of creativity, self-expression, and emotional depth as key parts of the human experience. She is also pursuing training in art therapy to integrate her background in the arts into her current mental health practice.

Outside of work, Cici finds joy in journaling, taking long walks in the city, watching sunsets, and capturing life’s beautiful moments through photography.

Danielle is completing her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at St. John's University. As an MSW intern, she is passionate about supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, relationship stress, and academic pressure. She is especially mindful of the unique challenges that can arise when balancing cultural expectations, identity, and personal growth, and she offers Spanish-speaking services and multicultural support to clients who value working in a space that feels understanding and affirming. Danielle is also passionate about mental health advocacy and supporting immigrant communities.

Danielle's approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. She integrates modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CT), Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), tailoring her work to meet each client's individual needs. She strives to create a space where clients feel safe, empowered, and heard. Danielle has a strong interest overall wellness, and in her free time, she enjoys writing and exploring new ways to promote emotional well-being both inside and outside of the therapy room.

Dimitajo earned a Master's degree in School Counseling and Mental Health Certification from Alfred University. Before joining PCC, Dimitajo worked with Adolescents in a High School setting in Brooklyn NY, providing individual and group counseling services as well as supporting students with academic guidance, and post-secondary planning. She worked with clients coping with stress, crises, behavior regulation, managing anxiety and depression.

Dimitajo' uses integrative psychotherapy, a client-centered approach, to collaborate with her clients in developing a plan of treatment that will support clients with achieving their goals. Dimitajo takes a holistic approach to therapy using modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.  Dimitajo has a lifelong passion for supporting individuals on their journey to being the most authentic and best version of themselves. Dimitajo enjoys the arts, the beauty of nature and aromatherapy, which she incorporates in mindfulness techniques.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Specializations: Children (7-17), adolescents, adults, families, couples, elderly, groups, attachment-based therapy, child/parent psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), culturally sensitive therapy, emotion-focused therapy, eye movement desensitization, and reprocessing (EMDR), group therapy, marriage & family therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy, play therapy, psychodynamic, trauma-informed therapy, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, divorce, domestic violence, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, loss of independence, parenting, PTSD, sexual-physical abuse, vocational/occupational issues, substance use. Trained in EMDR therapy.

Fnu Sharapat is earning an MSEd in Mental Health Counseling from Hunter College in NYC. Before joining PCC, Fnu Sharapat worked with diverse populations in community-based and clinical settings in New York City, providing support and counseling services focused on emotional regulation, coping skills development, and mental health stabilization. She has worked with clients presenting with anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, and life transitions.

Fnu Sharapat’s approach is relational and client-centered. She blends modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychodynamic, and person-centered approaches. Fnu Sharapat has an interest in working with individuals navigating trauma, attachment-related concerns, and identity development. She strives to create a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental therapeutic space that supports clients in building insight, resilience, and meaningful change.

Gladys Henriquez is a Mental Health Counseling intern who works with individuals and families navigating a wide range of emotional and relational challenges. She approaches therapy from a compassionate, strengths-based, and trauma-informed perspective to help clients feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.

Gladys holds a bachelor’s degree in Diplomacy and International Relations and is currently completing her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at New York University (NYU). Her academic background supports a holistic understanding of how personal experiences, family systems, culture, and broader social contexts influence mental health and emotional well-being.

In addition to her clinical training, Gladys is the Founder and Executive Director of Discover & Grow, a nonprofit organization dedicated to social-emotional learning, emotional regulation, and strengths-based development for children, parents, and schools. Through this role, she brings experience supporting families, facilitating workshops, and working with diverse communities in preventative and supportive settings.

In her clinical work, Gladys draws from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and strengths-based interventions under clinical supervision, while remaining collaborative and responsive to each client’s goals, needs, and pace.

Gladys provides services in English, Spanish, and French and is committed to creating a warm, culturally responsive, and nonjudgmental therapeutic space.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Jose received his Master's degree in social work from New York University in 2002. Before joining PCC, he worked for the Center for Urban Community Services providing mental health services to the homeless population of New York as well as providing clinical services in Rhode Island. Jose also has experience working with the Puerto Rican Family Institute as a Clinical Social Worker for 8 years, providing services to the MICA population and working with families. During his tenure at PRFI, he also worked at Wyckoff Heights, where he provided clinical services to individuals affected by HIV and AIDs and their families. His approach is a client centered approach, and he strives to keep what he calls an Open Door Policy with the populations he serves. 

Ken Cooper, LCSW, has a master's degree in social work from Hunter School of Social Work. Before joining PCC, Ken worked for more than twenty years providing client centered care to individuals with a wide variety of mental health concerns.  Ken has worked in numerous contexts including a day treatment program for older adults with severe mental illness, in homeless shelters for both men and women, in AIDS Day Treatment, and in supportive housing programs throughout the city.  As Vice President of Lantern Community Services, Ken provided clinical supervision to more than twenty-five social workers, case managers and social work interns.

Drawing on a variety of modalities including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Wellness Self Management, Trauma Informed Care, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) he has a long history of helping clients cope with depression, anxiety, bereavement, gender/sexuality concerns, and serious mental health issues as well as recovery from trauma and addiction.  

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Licensed Mental Health Counselor.

Mental Health Counselor – Limited Permit.

Specializations: Children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, reality therapy, rational emotive therapy (REBT), group therapy, marriage & family therapy, mindfulness, crisis intervention, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, ADHD/ADD, adjustment disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders, mood disorders, behavioral problems, bullying, vocational/occupational issues, financial issues, pregnancy, parenting, grief/loss, divorce, life transitions, phobias, domestic violence, child abuse, sexual/physical abuse, anger management, homelessness, sexuality, LGBTQ+, physical illness, stress management, life management.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Mackenzie is a passionate Clinical Therapist with provisional license in Mental Health Counseling (MHC-LP) in the state of New York. She has received comprehensive training in mental health counseling, developmental psychology, positive psychology, trauma, and clinical assessment. She earned her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. 

With extensive experience supporting diverse populations from various racial backgrounds and age groups, Mackenzie creates a safe and affirming space for clients to explore their challenges and navigate life’s complexities. Her expertise spans working with individuals facing trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and interpersonal relationships. 

Mackenzie values clients’ individual differences and unique backgrounds, which informs her integrative and collaborative therapy approach. She tailors her methods to meet each client's specific needs and goals, drawing from person-centered, psychodynamic, and cultural-relational therapies. She also incorporates cognitive-behavioral techniques, mind-body practices, and positive psychology strategies as needed. 

Mackenzie believes in the inherent resilience and capacity for change within everyone. She is committed to helping clients take meaningful steps toward more fulfilled and balanced lives. She values each client’s individual experiences and cultural identity, ensuring therapy is a collaborative and personalized journey.

Mackenzie’s Message to Clients:

We will narrate stories, feel emotions, explore ideas, utilize strengths, take risks, and work towards more fulfilled lives. I look forward to joining your journey of healing and growth.

Michael Ho is earning his Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Hunter College. Before joining PCC, Michael was a crisis counselor at a suicide hotline and provided support to those suffering from intense emotional distress. He worked extensively with people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mood disorders.

Michael’s approach is integrative and culturally sensitive, incorporating techniques from person-centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). His therapeutic style emphasizes creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients of all backgrounds. Michael is passionate about the collaborative nature of therapy and works closely with each client to meet their specific needs. In his spare time, he enjoys going rock climbing and playing guitar.

Monica Fodera earned her master's degree in forensic mental health counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Before joining Queens Counseling Services, Monica worked at Memorial Sloan-Ketting Cancer Center in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences on research studies regarding the quality of life of cancer survivors. Monica also interned at the Brooklyn and Queens Forensic Psychiatric Evaluation Court Clinics where she assisted in administering competency to proceed and pre-sentencing evaluations.

Monica’s approach is integrative, dynamic, and client centered. She blends appropriate modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and mindfulness, shaping treatment to meet the client's needs and goals within a safe, respectful, and compassionate environment. As a 1.5 generation immigrant, Monica is passionate about working with bicultural clients. In her free time, Monica enjoys hiking, photography, and exploring the diverse culinary offerings of Queens.

Licensed Master Social Worker.

Narda earned her master's degree in clinical social work from Lehman College. Before joining PCC, Narda worked with adults and their families in a community-based setting in the Bronx, providing care management and psychotherapy for a diverse population. She worked with clients coping with past and present trauma, chronic illness, pain management, end of life transitions, depression, and anxiety. Narda has also worked with children and families helping them cope with trauma, abuse, difficult family dynamics and developmental struggles. 

Narda's approach is empathetic, integrative, relational, dynamic, and client-centered. She blends appropriate modalities, including psychodynamics, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness, shaping treatment to meet the client's needs and goals within a safe, respectful, and compassionate environment. Narda's ability to appreciate and incorporate multiple perspectives helps to provide a collaborative therapeutic experience.

Nadia (She/Her) supports people of all ages navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity struggles, low self-worth, and other challenges, while respecting the unique backgrounds and stories that shape who they are. Her approach focuses on helping clients build insight, practice self-compassion, and strengthen their internal and external resources. She believes therapy should be a safe, collaborative, and affirming space that helps you feel more grounded, find clarity, and build a sense of peace within yourself and your relationships.

Nadia enjoys working with people of all backgrounds, particularly those from marginalized identities, first- and second-generation immigrants, people of color, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. To ensure sessions are both comforting and effective, she uses a trauma-informed and culturally-responsive approach, blended with evidence-based techniques from person-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, exposure and response prevention, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. Nadia holds a master’s degree in mental health counseling from Hunter College.

Nina (She/Her) is pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Bellevue University and has prior experience in group therapy through the Getsalt program. Nina’s primary theoretical orientation is humanistic–existential, with a strong emphasis on a person-centered approach grounded in empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard. She also integrates techniques from several evidence-based modalities, including Existential, Gestalt, Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), feminist therapy, and mindfulness-based practices. Nina primarily works with young adults and adults who are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relational difficulties, conflict resolution, grief and loss, and attachment-related issues. Nina believes that every client is unique and deserving of individualized care. Nina prioritizes client autonomy and respects each person’s values, experiences, and preferences throughout the therapeutic process. She is committed to an egalitarian, culturally responsive approach that honors diverse gender, racial, cultural, and social identities and emphasizes multicultural awareness in therapy. Nina strives to create a safe, nonjudgmental, and trusting environment where clients feel heard, seen, and validated. Her goal is to support and empower clients on their healing journey, helping them cultivate resilience, authenticity, and a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.

Nubia Phillips is earning a master’s degree in Mental Health and Wellness Counseling from New York University. Before joining PCC, Nubia worked with children in a therapeutic setting in Manhattan, providing/working to help children learn to name, and manage their own mental health concerns. She worked with clients coping with mostly anxiety, social and school related challenges.

Nubia's approach is client-centered. Nubia blends/uses modalities including Gestalt Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Play Therapy. Nubia has an interest in ballet, fashion, and finding any excuse possible to spend time outdoors! Her therapeutic approach always puts the client first, and creates a space that feels warm, welcoming, and open for clients to grow.  It is important to her that she cultivates an environment where clients feel comfortable sharing themselves to the fullest extent. She hopes to develop a space where clients feel free to express themselves without any judgment. 

Nichole Marques earned an MSW from the University at Buffalo. Before joining PCC, Nichole worked in residential treatment facilities for substance use disorders and in outpatient behavioral health settings in Brooklyn and the Bronx. This included direct care via psychotherapy and supervising staff in these various settings, continuously focusing on advancing care and improving systems.

Nichole’s approach is primarily influenced by Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, blending tools from DBT, ACT, and trauma-informed modalities to help clients reach a sense of acceptance and belonging. When not advocating for systemic change, Nichole enjoys traveling around the world, learning from the enrichment of other cultures. It's with this same mindset of curiosity and eclecticism that Nichole approaches clinical work.  

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Specializations: Adolescents, adults, couples, elderly, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, caregiving, child abuse, domestic violence, eating disorders, loss of independence, preventative/foster care.

Paulette Henk-Prendi LMHC earned a Master's MSEd degree in Mental Health Counseling from CUNY Hunter College. Paulette began working at PCC as an intern, focusing her work with children and adolescents. Now, she also works as a school-based therapist in NYC Department of Education Schools in Brooklyn, providing social and emotional support to students, families, and school faculty. 

Paulette's approach is client-centered and tailored to meet the needs of the patient and family. Paulette often blends various modalities, including play therapy, DBT, CBT, and creative arts therapy. Paulette hopes that her clients walk away from each session feeling that they have begun building a space that is uniquely theirs. 

Peter is completing his master's degree in Social Work at New York University. Before joining PCC, he worked primarily with adults experiencing homelessness and/or reentering the workforce. His approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and recovery-oriented, integrating techniques from modalities including psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy to empower clients to take steps towards meaningful change. He works with adults, adolescents, and couples to address issues including anxiety, depression, stress, communication, interpersonal conflict, anger management, and life transitions. In his free time, he fosters and trains rescue dogs. 

Rachel earned a Bachelor's degree in psychology from Skidmore College and completed her master's degree in clinical mental health counseling at St. John's University. While at PCC, she has gained experience working with clients on issues such as depression, anxiety, social and familial conflict, and trauma. 

Although Rachel's approach is primarily person-centered, she integrates theories and techniques from many other modalities, including psychodynamics, Gestalt therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. In her free time, Rachel enjoys drawing, reading, and spending time with her husband and their two cats. 

Stella Kazas earned a Master's degree and Professional Diploma at Fordham University. Before joining PCC, she worked as an evaluator conducting social history evaluations for students referred for special education services, and as a psychotherapist in a clinic serving individuals with developmental disabilities. 

Stella's approach is client-centered, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused. Her areas of specialization include: anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders/trauma, child behavior problems, and neurodevelopmental disorders. She works with adults, adolescents, children, and families, and specialized in using play therapy to treat young children in person and virtually.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor.

Specialization: ADHD, Adjustment disorders, Anxiety, Anger Management, Behavioral Issues, Bullying, Depression, Grief, Parenting, Peer Relations, Phobias, Physical Illness, Self Esteem, Self Harm, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women’s Issues. Ages: Children (ages 5-12), Teenagers, and Adults. Modalities: Individual, Family, Group. Treatment Approach: Cognitive Behavioral, Culturally Sensitive, Dialectical Behavioral, Eclectic, Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, REBT, Solution Focused, Trauma-Focused.

Taylor earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Before joining PCC, Taylor worked with populations including foster care and young adults at grant funded and nonprofit clinical organizations, providing trauma informed individual psychotherapeutic services. She worked with clients coping with separation from families, trauma, and navigating life transitions.

Taylor's approach is eclectic, making use of various psychotherapeutic frameworks including interpersonal, client-centered, supportive, and psychodynamic. Taylor has an interest in the progression of human rights and care of nature. 

Mental Health Counselor - Limited Permit