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< Back Michael Natale, MHC-LP Licensed Mental Health Counselor Michael Natale, CRC and MHC-LP, received his MS Ed in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling from Hunter College and is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Michael is pursuing an Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling at Hunter College, CUNY. His expertise is in working with teens, young adults, and adults who may be experiencing depression, substance use/alcohol use, anxiety/panic/phobias, clients with ADD/ADHD, and physical disabilities. He is experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). The best piece of advice he received is "Compassion toward others will lead to compassion toward yourself." For Michael, to see people choose therapy is to see people choose hope and to imagine a version of themselves that is stronger and happier. He loves seeing people bet on themselves and their ability to grow and change, and it's inspiring for him to see this. His friends and family describe him as someone who has many hobbies and interests and is able to find common ground with people. Clients say working with Michael is authentic. He is genuinely interested in seeing the world from their perspective while approaching issues with optimism, practicality, and respect for individuality. To schedule an appointment with Michael, please contact the clinic directly. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< Back Mary-Kay Kallergis, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Mary‑Kay Kallergis, LMSW is a compassionate therapist who works with clients across all stages of life, from children and teens to adults and seniors. She has extensive experience supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, particularly those in older elementary school age through adulthood to reduce their anxiety and build meaningful social‑emotional skills. Mary‑Kay also works with clients navigating challenges such as ADHD, anger management, trauma, and eating/weight concerns. Mary‑Kay brings a wealth of knowledge and training to her practice. She is proficient in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychospiritual psychotherapy, and holistic therapies, and also incorporates play therapy when working with children. Her credentials include a master’s degree in social work from Fordham University, dual certification in General and Special Education Teaching from Mercy College, and a master’s degree in School Psychology from Mercy College. In addition, she is a certified holistic health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and a Certified Shamanic Reiki Master Teacher. She is currently expanding her expertise by studying to become both an Art Therapist Practitioner and a Naturopathic Practitioner. Mary‑Kay is motivated by witnessing her clients’ gradual healing and growing independence from therapy. She is described by those who know her as loving, kind, trustworthy, and eager to help others. Fluent in Greek , she is able to connect with diverse communities and provide culturally responsive care. To schedule an appointment with Mary‑Kay, please call the clinic directly. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

Hola! Soy Madeline... Hello! I'm Madeline It is such a pleasure to be meeting you here. To get to know me, I have added a little bit of who I am as a clinician, family member and humanitarian. Madeline Maldonado, a licensed Bilingual clinical social worker and seasoned leader, brings over two decades of expertise in mental health advocacy, program development, and culturally competent care. As president and founder of Madeline Maldonado, LCSW Consulting P.C., she provides workshops, staff training, and diagnostic (autism) evaluations, while also serving as the cofounder and president of Minette LCSW Psychotherapy Services PLLC, a clinic dedicated to the mental health needs of Latino and BIPOC communities. Madeline is committed to fostering systemic change and inspiring resilience in the communities she serves. She believes in teaching & empowering clients to be their own advocates, and in working with community partners as allies to address issues in our communities. She confronts problems with teamwork and solution focused strategies. Madeline’s career reflects a legacy of transformative impact and leadership in social work: • Innovative Programs: Her work with the Life is Precious and the Bronx Grassroots Latina Suicide Prevention Program, including contributing to securing grants that funded these life-saving initiatives for Latina adolescents. Her impactful collaboration with Fordham Law School includes wellness workshops for first-year law students and innovative counseling for underrepresented students in their REAL Scholars and IDEAL programs. • Operational Excellence: Her guidance ensured the successful licensure renewals of four mental health programs, guaranteeing high-quality service delivery. Madeline’s focus on culturally humble care has empowered families to have support in environments where they feel understood and respected. • Published Thought Leader: As a co-author of the Amazon-bestselling Latinx/e in Social Work series, with Volume 1 receiving an honorable mention at the 24th International Latino Book Awards, she continues to inspire and connect communities. • Media and Advocacy: Madeline has shared her expertise on the Latinx in Social Work Podcast (including its most downloaded episode, “Dealing with Microaggressions in the Workplace”), the Beauteous Me Podcast, and NYU McSilver Institute CTAC’s Voices from the Field podcast, cementing her reputation as a thought leader in mental health, cultural competency, and advocacy. By collaborating with media outlets like Telemundo and sharing expert insights on mental health topics, Madeline has raised awareness and reduced stigma around mental health issues. Her outreach ensures that important conversations reach diverse audiences. • Inspiring Professional Development: Madeline brings her wealth of experience as an educator and mentor to empower emerging and established professionals. As a former adjunct professor and field advisor at Fordham University’s MSW Program, and the current supervisor of the graduate intern program at Minette Psychotherapy, she has a proven track record of nurturing future leaders in the mental health field. Through her impactful workshops, trainings, and presentations, Madeline provides actionable strategies to combat burnout, reduce stress, and enhance client outcomes. Her dedication inspires professionals to lead with empathy and embrace sustainable, resilient practices in their work. • Representation and Role Modeling: Madeline held the position of Chair for the NASW-NYC Committee on Nominations and Leadership Identification (CNLI) during the 2020-2021 term, following her role as a committee member in the 2019-2020 term. A sought-after speaker, Madeline has presented at major conferences, including the National Latino Behavioral Health Conference, the NASW-NYC Social Work in the City conference, and Autism in Black Conference. Madeline’s work, particularly in co-authoring the Latinx/e in Social Work series and participating in public discussions, has uplifted the voices of the Latinx community. By addressing workplace microaggressions and mental health disparities, she inspires others to embrace advocacy and cultural competency. In 2023, Madeline received a Proclamation from New York State Assembly Member Karines Reyes and Senator Nathalia Fernandez for her outstanding contributions to the Bronx community. Recognized by the NASW in 2008 and 2011 as an “Outstanding Therapist,” she continues to empower professionals and clients with solution-focused strategies and culturally humble care. Madeline holds a Master’s Degree from New York University Silver School of Social Work and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Hunter College of CUNY. She is an avid animal lover and shares her home with her adorable daschund Lucky and handsome tabby cat Poombah. Back TESTIMONIALS Marcela B. Yussef, Ph.D / Psychologist I have nothing but the utmost respect and admiration for Ms. Maldonado and feel privileged to know her, always an inspiring clinician, and a leader. From the moment I first met Ms. Maldonado, far too many years ago, during a professional training, I was immediately taken by how clinically skilled she is, as was readily illustrated by her insightful comments during the public discussion. Since then, I have had the opportunity to consult with her, I have read her comprehensive evaluation reports, and have had the good fortune of getting to know her. She is not only an astute clinician, but most importantly, she is warm, approachable, and truly cares. One tiny example of her commitment and how she goes the extra mile to care for those who are fortunate to work with her, be that as clients, both children and their families, as well as her colleagues, is how generous she always is, not just sharing her well informed clinical opinions, but always sharing additional resources to support the families she works with, and happily sharing such information with other clinicians as well, because her priority is to educate, support, and do her best for our community at large. Kimberly McCoy, Esq., M.S.Ed./Senior Family Educator Madeline Maldonado is a consummate professional and absolute pleasure to work with. I have recommended her services to various clients and they always rave about her. Madeline is relatable and has a knack of having difficult conversations with clients--while still instilling hope, helping them to see that while their path may be difficult, it is not impossible and can still be great. This is important when dealing with parents of children with disabilities. Denora Phillips, M.S./Developmental Evaluator Madeline elevates the field of social work to exceptional heights and works tirelessly to ensure that people from all communities and walks of life have equal access to resources. She is a warrior of social justice and truth. She gives a voice to and breathes hope in the lives of marginalized and oppressed people. She meets clients and families where they are at and skillfully listens to them in order to get to the root of the issues that affect them. She does not just offer solutions, but also arms her clients with tools to empower themselves and navigate challenges they will face in the future. - LinkedIn - Madeline Maldonado, LCSW

< Back Lily O'Heir, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Lily O'Heir, a licensed master social worker, specializes in working with young children, teens, and adolescents. Drawing on her educational background, certifications, and experience with youth and young adults in both individual and group settings, she focuses on life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma, and anger. Lily practices from a trauma-informed, strengths-based lens. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and creative therapeutic approaches to support clients in their growth. Lily holds a master's degree in social work from Columbia University and a bachelor's degree in social work from Hunter School of Social Work (CUNY). She views therapy as a collaborative process where clients are the experts in their own lives. Lily is committed to creating a non-judgmental, supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered. To book an appointment with Lily, please get in touch with the clinic directly by phone. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

Clinician Apply Now New York, NY, USA Job Type Full Time Requirements RESPONSIBILITIES : Participates in the intake process to obtain information relevant to formulating a psychosocial evaluation and treatment plan goals. Provides individual, group, couples and family psychotherapy to a caseload of clients. Caseload is comprised of multicultural clients ages 4 thru end of life with varying DSM-5 diagnoses and presenting with a range of clinical symptoms and behaviors. Implements the treatment plan by providing psychotherapy interventions. Leads psychotherapy groups of up to 12 clients/members. Makes referrals to outside agencies/providers and community resources as appropriate for the clients. Collaborates with outside professionals for the purpose of client care coordination, when appropriate. Plans for client’s discharge from the clinic and/or aftercare. Maintains appropriate case records on the electronic health record (EHR) and prepares other letters and reports as required. Reports to the “State Central Registry of Child Abuse & Neglect” all cases of suspected child abuse or neglect. Maintains consistent communication with the clinical supervisor, leadership team and other staff via use of technology (emails, voicemails). Attends clinical supervision meetings weekly and as scheduled. Confers and consults with the clinical supervisor regarding ongoing care as well as emerging client problems. Attends staff development trainings and workshops. Attends staff meetings. Other duties as assigned. REQUIREMENTS: NYS Licensed Social Worker (LCSW or LMSW), Psychologist, Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), or Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). NYS Limited Permit in the above disciplines will be considered, contingent upon staff accruing clinical hours for licensure. Knowledge working with mental illness in children, adolescents, and the adult population. Electronic Health Record experience. Comfort in using Microsoft Word, Email, Internet, and typing of documents. Bilingual in Spanish is a plus. Knowledge of developmental delays and disabilities in children and adolescents is a plus. SKILLS: Ability to provide psychotherapy and/or crisis services to clients in need of mental health services. Responsible, organized, and efficient. Able to work independently to meet deadlines and complete tasks. Ability to perform in a team approach and accomplish multiple assignments. Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally, and to listen actively. Community minded, patient, creative, flexible, compassionate, and culturally sensitive to mulicultural clients who are diagnosed with a mental illness Ability to deal tactfully and diplomatically with other Minette Psychotherapy staff members, outside professionals, clients, Federal, State, and City officials, and the general public. REPORTING: Reports to the assigned Clinical Supervisor Accountable to Mary Taveras-Garcia, LCSW-R and Madeline Maldonado, LCSW-R on matters of documentation, adherence to Minette Psychotherapy policies and procedures, and client complaints. Download Application To apply, please download and complete the employment application. Email completed applications and CV or Resume to: minettetherapy@gmail.com About the Company Minette LCSW Psychotherapy Services, PLLC has over 20 years of experience in clinical work (evaluations, diagnosing, psychotherapy - individual/group/couples/family and clinical supervision. Specific treatment areas include depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD. We use evidenced based models such as CBT, motivational interviewing, and solution focused psychotherapy. We are also experts in evaluating and diagnosing developmental delays and autism in young children and working with families of children with developmental delays. Application

< Back Nicole Fluellen-Young, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Nicole holds a master's degree in social work from Columbia University. Nicole is a compassionate therapist who brings a deep understanding of trauma, resilience, and advocacy to her therapeutic practice. Nicole is committed to fostering healing and growth by creating safe spaces for clients to explore their challenges and discover their strengths. Rooted in a holistic perspective, Nicole integrates her extensive knowledge of crisis intervention, family systems, and trauma-informed care to empower individuals and families. Her mission is to guide clients toward greater well-being, resilience, and connection. She is described by clients as being passionate and caring. Nicole primarily works with all age groups and has extensive experience in group therapy, family therapy, therapy with children and adolescents, couples, and marital therapy. Practice specialties include clients with ADHD/ADD, Grief and loss, Depression, Anger Management, Eating/Weight Issues, Domestic Violence, and Immigrant/Acculturation. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Nicole, please contact the clinic at the phone number below. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< Back Daisy Muniz, MSW Intern Clinical Social Work Intern Daisy Muniz is pursuing her Master of Social Work degree at Lehman College and holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College (CUNY). She brings over five years of experience supporting individuals impacted by substance use, domestic violence, and immigration-related challenges. Through this work, she has cultivated a deep commitment to social justice and to addressing the systemic barriers affecting many communities. As a bilingual therapist-in-training (English and Spanish), Daisy is especially passionate about increasing access to culturally competent mental health services for underserved populations. She utilizes a client-centered, strengths-based approach and incorporates motivational interviewing to support clients in identifying their goals and building on their resilience. Her clinical focus includes creating safe, empowering spaces for adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and acculturation-related concerns. Upon graduation, Daisy intends to become a licensed master social worker and continue providing bilingual, culturally responsive care to reduce stigma and improve outcomes for Hispanic individuals and families. To arrange an appointment with Daisy, please reach out to the clinic. Daisy Muñiz está cursando su Maestría en Trabajo Social en Lehman College y tiene una licenciatura en Justicia Criminal de John Jay College (CUNY). Cuenta con más de cinco años de experiencia apoyando a individuos afectados por el consumo de sustancias, la violencia doméstica y los desafíos relacionados con la inmigración. A través de este trabajo, ha cultivado un profundo compromiso con la justicia social y con abordar las barreras sistémicas que afectan a muchas comunidades. Como terapeuta en formación bilingüe (inglés y español), Daisy se siente especialmente apasionada por aumentar el acceso a servicios de salud mental culturalmente competentes para poblaciones desatendidas. Utiliza un enfoque centrado en el cliente y basado en fortalezas, e incorpora la entrevista motivacional para apoyar a los clientes en la identificación de sus metas y en la construcción de su resiliencia. Su enfoque clínico incluye la creación de espacios seguros y empoderadores para adolescentes, jóvenes adultos y adultos que enfrentan la depresión, la ansiedad, el trauma, el consumo de sustancias y preocupaciones relacionadas con la aculturación. Al graduarse, Daisy tiene la intención de convertirse en trabajadora social maestra licenciada y continuar proporcionando atención bilingüe y culturalmente responsable para reducir el estigma y mejorar los resultados para individuos y familias hispanas. Para concertar una cita con Daisy, por favor, comuníquese con la clínica. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

Group Therapy Group therapy typically involves a meeting with a group of clients during which common issues are presented. During group therapy the clients (members) discuss issues which are affecting their emotions, behaviors, thought processes, etc. Members can verbalize their feelings and the therapist acts as a facilitator. Group therapy may also involve skills training (i.e.- coping skills, parenting skills, communications skills). Online Virtual Session Available Register for a Group

< Back Jesus Ortiz, MSW Intern Clinical Social Work Intern Jesus Ortiz is a bilingual clinical social work intern currently pursuing his Master’s in Social Work at Long Island University. A proud New York native, Jesus brings deep empathy and a strong commitment to supporting individuals on their mental health journeys. Before transitioning into clinical work, Jesus served as a middle school counselor with the Department of Education, where he developed a passion for one-on-one support and advocacy. He is now excited to be deepening his clinical skills at Minette Psychotherapy, where he strives to create a safe, supportive space for clients to not only live—but truly thrive. Jesus is especially passionate about expanding access to mental health care in underserved communities. He envisions opening his own practice in the future to serve the city's most vulnerable populations with dignity and care. He holds an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts from the Borough of Manhattan Community College (CUNY) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Lehman College (CUNY). He currently lives in The Bronx with his mother and their two dogs, Nyla and Oreo. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Jesus, please contact the clinic directly for assistance. Jesús Ortiz es un pasante bilingüe de trabajo social clínico que actualmente cursa su Maestría en Trabajo Social en Long Island University. Como nativo de Nueva York, está deseoso de ayudar a quienes buscan un oyente compasivo. Con experiencia como consejero escolar de nivel intermedio en el Departamento de Educación, está entusiasmado por hacer la transición a un rol clínico en Minette Psychotherapy. Está comprometido a ayudar a las personas no solo a vivir, sino a prosperar. Le apasiona hacer que los servicios de salud mental sean accesibles para una audiencia amplia y aspira a abrir su propia práctica para servir a las comunidades desfavorecidas de la ciudad. Jesús obtuvo un título de Asociado en Artes Liberales del Borough of Manhattan Community College (CUNY) y una Licenciatura en Trabajo Social de Lehman College (CUNY). Reside en el Bronx, donde cuida de su madre y de sus dos perros, Nyla y Oreo. Si desea programar una cita con Jesús, por favor comuníquese directamente con la clínica para recibir asistencia. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

Evaluations for Youth Evaluation and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts the brain’s development affecting language, communication, cognition, and social skills. An evaluation is the first step toward finding out if your child or loved one has autism spectrum disorder. We offer Autism testing for children and teens ages 0-18 in NY, providing your child or loved one an accurate diagnosis. Among other tests, we use the ADOS-2, a well validated test to establish the diagnosis of ASD. Email mmaldonadoevaluations@gmail.com to learn more about autism testing. Online Virtual Session Available Schedule an Appointment

< Back Arlene Paez, MHC-LP Mental Health Counselor Welcome, I’m Arlene Paez, a dedicated trauma-informed therapist with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from SUNY Plattsburgh and a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from SUNY Oneonta . My work is guided by holistic healing, which involves the mind, body, and spirit and the belief that every person deserves to feel seen, understood, and supported. My professional career began in the Bronx, NY, where I worked as a case manager supporting migrant children and families through advocacy, care coordination, and emotional support. I later transitioned into higher education, helping college students navigate academic, emotional, and life challenges. These experiences deepened my passion for supporting adolescents and adults as they move through transitions and rediscover balance in their lives. My therapeutic approach is integrative and mind-body oriented , recognizing that healing happens when we address the connection between our thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences. I tailor my work to each client’s unique needs, drawing from a range of evidence-based interventions, including: Polyvagal Therapy – helps clients understand how their nervous system responds to stress and trauma, fostering a greater sense of safety and emotional regulation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – focuses on identifying and reframing unhelpful thought patterns to create healthier emotional and behavioral responses. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – teaches mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and effective communication skills to improve balance and relationships. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – helps clients accept difficult emotions while taking meaningful action aligned with their core values. Mindfulness-Based Practices – encourage present-moment awareness and self-compassion, helping to reduce anxiety and increase emotional clarity. Strengths-Based Therapy – empowers clients to recognize and build upon their inner strengths and resilience as tools for healing and growth. I believe that therapy is a space for self-discovery, connection, and empowerment. What inspires me most about this work is witnessing the profound transformation that occurs when individuals feel truly seen, heard, and empowered to heal. I love helping clients reconnect with their inner wisdom, gain new perspectives, and cultivate peace and self-compassion. If you’re ready to begin your healing journey and reconnect with your whole self, I would be honored to walk beside you.