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A safe, supportive and empowering home for BIPOC and Latinx individuals, and families of children with disabilities. We are LGBTQ+ allies and affirming. Minette Psychotherapy is inclusive and we welcome clients from all races, ethnicities and religious beliefs. We welcome everyone! Learn More We Believe In helping you and your family to live better lives, making a positive impact for Latinos, people of color and the LGBTQ+ Community. We help your children to live to their highest potential in life while supporting you. -Mary and Madeline Read About Our Mission Meet the Founders ABOUT US A message from Mary and Madeline Hola - we are Madeline and Mary. We are so happy you are here! We're here to help you make the best decisions for you and your family and to have a more joyful and peaceful life in the process. We're passionate about helping Latinx/e and clients of color because we are proud Latina women of color, and we see our families and ourselves in your experiences. Read More Madeline and Mary discuss their journey in greater detail. They recently shared insights about this on The Latinx/e in Social Work Podcast. To listen in on other guest podcast interviews visit our Media Library . Premium Upgrade Required Please upgrade to Premium plan to remove the watermark and access Spotify widget settings SERVICES Treatment Sessions in Private or in a Group Services Evaluations Evaluations for developmental delays and autism are available for children ages 12 months to 18 years old. Minette Psychotherapy also provides resources and help to parents of children living with autism. Read More Workshops We offer several workshops that provide education and support on various topics related to mental health and well being. Explore Workshops Therapy Services We have a combined 43+ years of experience with providing individual therapy, child and family therapy and couples counseling. We specialize in working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities Read More Groups We offer groups that focus on different topics to provide therapeutic support, education and a feeling of community. Explore our group offerings. Explore Groups VIDEOS Minette Psychotherapy Library Our e-library provides resources for you and your family. Please click on any one of the videos below and enjoy! Play Video Play Video 01:05:24 Por qué los mecanismos que usaste para sobrevivir el trauma se convierten en tu peor enemigo En este nuevo episodio de Hablando con Jean Carlos Podcast, Jean Carlos recibe a Madeline Maldonado, trabajadora social clínica licenciada y fundadora de Minett Psychotherapy Services, para una conversación a fondo sobre el trauma. Una de esas conversaciones que pocas veces se dan con esta claridad y sin tapujos, grabada desde casa en un formato íntimo. La entrevista arranca con una definición clínica del trauma que desafía la idea de que solo lo negativo traumatiza, y avanza hacia territorio muy concreto: cómo el cerebro de un niño procesa un abuso, cómo el cuerpo guarda lo que la mente reprime, cuáles son las señales de trauma en niños y adultos que pasan desapercibidas, y cómo mecanismos que en la infancia funcionaron como protección se convierten décadas después en condenas. También se habla del trauma indirecto, del ciclo de repetición compulsiva, de la vergüenza como uno de los obstáculos más difíciles de soltar, y de qué significa realmente sanar, más allá de la idea de cura total. Jean Carlos comparte abiertamente que él también es sobreviviente de abuso sexual y violencia doméstica en su infancia. El episodio cierra con una reflexión sobre el perdón y un mensaje directo para quien escucha cargando algo que nunca supo cómo nombrar. Este episodio está patrocinado por Hombres Lounge. Si estás en New York y quieres vivir la experiencia, este es un lugar que tienes que conocer. 💬 ¿Alguna vez reconociste algo tuyo en lo que se habló hoy? Te leemos en los comentarios. 📍 85-28 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, New York 11372 🌐 www.hombreslounge.com 👉 Mira el episodio anterior 👉 Sigue la cuenta para más contenido: @hablandoconjeancarlospodcast 🎬 Producción audiovisual: @chrisvisualstudios Play Video Play Video 01:01:58 INCLUDElive, Feb. 13, 2026: Practical Strategies and Meaningful Support for Young People with ID/DD In this episode, INCLUDEnyc talks with Madeline Maldonado, LCSW-R, who highlights the importance of early identification of ID/DD, culturally responsive interventions, and how to boost collaboration between families, schools, and community providers. Maldonado discussed ways to reduce barriers to care, strengthen resilience, and create inclusive systems that honor each child’s unique strengths. Maldonado is a bilingual clinical social worker, leader, and advocate, dedicated to transforming mental health care through culturally competent practices. Play Video Play Video 07:21 NOM Media Video on Minette Psychotherapy Services, PLLC Load More You take care of everything. Let us take care of you. Get started with Minette Psychotherapy Services today. Schedule an Appointment

< Back Vilma Miranda, LCSW-R Licensed Clinical Social Worker Vilma Miranda, LCSW-R, earned both her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Social Work from Fordham University. She specializes in providing therapy for young adults aged 19-29 and adults aged 30 and above, with a focus on treating depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, phobias, anger management, and domestic violence. Vilma utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to assist clients in overcoming life's challenges and achieving mental well-being. She is a compassionate and caring therapist, fluent in English and Spanish. To schedule an appointment with Vilma, please get in touch with the clinic directly. Vilma Miranda, LCSW-R, obtuvo tanto su maestría como su licenciatura en Trabajo Social en Fordham University. Está especializada en brindar terapia a adultos jóvenes (de 19 a 29 años) y adultos de 30 años en adelante, enfocándose en el tratamiento de la depresión, ansiedad, duelo, trauma, fobias, manejo de la ira y violencia doméstica. Vilma utiliza enfoques terapéuticos como la Terapia Cognitivo-Conductual (CBT), la Terapia Dialéctico-Conductual (DBT) y la Entrevista Motivacional (MI) para ayudar a sus clientes a enfrentar los desafíos de la vida y alcanzar el bienestar emocional. Es una terapeuta compasiva y dedicada, y domina tanto el español como el inglés con fluidez. Para agendar una cita con Vilma, por favor comunícate directamente con la clínica. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< 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

< Back Luke Chobanian, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Luke Chobanian, LMSW (he/him) is a radiant, enthusiastic, and deeply affirming therapist who brings warmth, authenticity, and genuine curiosity to every session. As a Licensed Master Social Worker, Luke supports clients across all stages of life and has experience working in a wide range of community mental health settings. He specializes in client‑centered and humanistic therapy, creating a space where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow. Luke is passionate about serving the LGBTQIA+ community and proudly identifies as a queer therapist. He is committed to providing LGBTQIA+ affirming care and helping clients explore identity, relationships, and emotional well-being with compassion and respect. Luke has extensive experience working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, emotional dysregulation, ADHD, addiction, and relationship challenges. He has supported children, adolescents, adults, and families, and understands how to tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs. His therapeutic approach is grounded in a person‑centered philosophy, focusing on motivation, empowerment, and meaningful goal‑setting. Luke integrates a variety of evidence‑based and creative modalities, including Trauma‑Informed Care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Creative Arts Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. As a vinyasa‑trained yogi and avid music lover, he often incorporates breathwork, mindfulness, and creative expression into his work when appropriate. Luke holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Boston University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from DePaul University. He lives in Brooklyn with his two beloved black cats, Pigeon and Ladybug, and finds joy in music, performance, yoga, and exploring the vibrant culture around him. To schedule an appointment with Luke, please contact the clinic directly. minettetherapy@gmail.com 201-7245489

< Back Jameson Fairchild, LCSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker Jameson Fairchild, LCSW, earned both his master's degree in Social Work and bachelor's degree in Psychology from Stony Brook University. He specializes in individual, family, and play therapies, employing a compassionate and empathetic therapeutic approach. Jameson works as a parent coach, offering support to families. His expertise also includes play therapy for children, therapy for adolescents, and addressing issues like anxiety, panic, phobias, autism, and ADD/ADHD. He uses techniques such as Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Jameson works with clients of all ages, including young children, teens, young adults, and adults. When questioned about what he loves about working with clients, he replied, "witnessing my clients grow more confident in their ability to effect change in their lives and experiences." He is described by friends and family as fun-loving, compassionate and dedicated. To schedule an appointment with Jameson, please call the clinic directly. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< Back Ambar Ortiz, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Ambar Ortiz, LMSW, received her master's degree from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Work. She specializes in therapy for young adults, adults, and seniors, with a focus on treating depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. Ambar is bilingual in Spanish. Ambar's most inspiring part of her job with clients is witnessing individuals reconnect with their most innate, true, full selves. The world can disconnect us from our essence and inherent worth, but walking alongside courageous individuals who choose to stand on their own is what I truly love about being a therapist. Her proficiency in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing fosters growth and assists clients in navigating life's challenges to attain mental well-being. To arrange an appointment, please call the clinic using the phone number below. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< Back Mary-Kay Kallergis, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Mary‑Kay Kallergis, LMSW is a warm, compassionate therapist who supports clients across the lifespan—from young children and teens to adults and older adults. She has extensive experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum, especially older elementary‑aged children through adulthood, helping them reduce anxiety, strengthen emotional regulation, and build meaningful social and communication skills. Mary‑Kay also works with clients navigating ADHD, anger management, trauma, and eating or weight‑related concerns. Mary‑Kay brings a uniquely rich blend of clinical training and holistic approaches to her work. She is skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychospiritual psychotherapy, and holistic therapies, and incorporates play therapy when working with children. Her educational background includes a Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University, dual certification in General and Special Education from Mercy College, and a Master’s in School Psychology. She is also a certified Holistic Health Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and a Certified Shamanic Reiki Master Teacher. Currently, she is expanding her expertise by studying Art Therapy and Naturopathic Practice. Clients describe Mary‑Kay as loving, kind, trustworthy, and deeply committed to their healing. She is motivated by witnessing her clients grow, gain confidence, and become more independent in their emotional journeys. Fluent in Greek, she is able to connect with diverse communities and provide culturally responsive, inclusive care. To schedule an appointment with Mary‑Kay, please get in touch with the clinic directly. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< Back Kelly DeLeon, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Kelly Deleon, LMSW, Limited Permit Kelly earned her master’s degree in social work from Lehman College, CUNY. She has experience working with teens and adults. Her specialties include working with adolescents, as well as supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety/panic/phobias, and trauma. Kelly utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients build insight, develop coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change. Kelly believes that “Individuals respond based on their own unique experiences. By staying mindful of this, you can build stronger connections and make meaningful progress with your clients.” She finds deep fulfillment in witnessing her clients’ growth and resilience, and feels honored to support them as they navigate challenges and move toward healing. Those who know her describe her as compassionate, thoughtful, and a great listener, creating a safe and supportive space for those she works with. Kelly is bilingual and fluent in Spanish. To schedule an appointment with Kelly, please contact the clinic directly.

Consent Forms Please download, complete and sign the Consent form and email it to minettetherapy@gmail.com with pictures of the FRONT & BACK of your insurance card. Our Intake Department staff will contact you within 48 Business Hours. Contact Consent Form - English DOWNLOAD PDF Consent Form - Spanish DOWNLOAD PDF

< Back Shaila Pilarte, M.S.Ed, MHC-LP Mental Health Counselor Shaila recently joined Minette Psychotherapy as a mental health counseling intern. I am committed to providing culturally competent, bilingual support to diverse populations, including Latinx, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, children, adolescents, and families. My approach integrates client-centered, strengths-based interventions to address trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. With expertise in social-emotional learning, crisis intervention, and autism support, I strive to create a safe, empowering space for healing and personal growth. Fluent in English and Spanish, I am dedicated to fostering accessibility and inclusivity in mental health care. Shaila's specialties include play therapy with children, Therapy with adolescents, Trauma-informed therapy, Family Therapy, Parent Coaching, Marital and Couples Therapy, clients with Autism, and clients who self-harm. She has expertise in both Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. She has experience with holding space in group counseling as well. She holds an M.S.ED. Master of Science in Education with advanced training from Alfred University, where she received an advanced certificate in mental health counseling. She also received an advanced certificate in Bilingual School Counseling from the New York Institute of Technology, a master's degree in School Counseling from Alfred University, and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Utica University. To schedule an appointment with Shaila, please contact the clinic directly. Shaila se unió recientemente a Minette Psychotherapy como pasante de consejería en salud mental. Está comprometida a brindar apoyo bilingüe y culturalmente competente a poblaciones diversas, incluyendo individuos Latinx, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, así como niños, adolescentes y familias. Su enfoque integra intervenciones centradas en el cliente y basadas en fortalezas para abordar temas como el trauma, la ansiedad, la depresión y los desafíos en las relaciones. Con experiencia en aprendizaje socioemocional, intervención en crisis y apoyo a personas con autismo, Shaila se esfuerza por crear un espacio seguro y empoderador para la sanación y el crecimiento personal. Habla inglés y español con fluidez y está comprometida con promover la accesibilidad y la inclusividad en el cuidado de la salud mental. Las especialidades de Shaila incluyen terapia de juego con niños, terapia con adolescentes, terapia informada en trauma, terapia familiar, coaching para padres, terapia de pareja y matrimonial, atención a personas con autismo y a personas con conductas autolesivas. Tiene experiencia en Terapia Cognitivo-Conductual (CBT) y Terapia Dialéctico-Conductual (DBT), y también ha trabajado en consejería grupal. Shaila posee un M.S.Ed. (Maestría en Ciencias de la Educación) con formación avanzada en consejería de salud mental de Alfred University, donde también recibió un certificado avanzado en el área. Además, obtuvo un certificado avanzado en Consejería Escolar Bilingüe del New York Institute of Technology, una maestría en Consejería Escolar de Alfred University y una licenciatura en Justicia Criminal de Utica University. Para agendar una cita con Shaila, por favor comunícate directamente con la clínica. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 274-5489

Counseling & Therapy Individual and Couples Therapy and Diagnostic Evaluations Play therapy for children ages 3-11: Play therapy is a form of psychotherapy that utilizes play as a therapeutic tool to help children and young adolescents explore, express, and resolve emotional and behavioral issues. Play therapy is typically used with children ages 3-11, but it can also be beneficial for older adolescents and even with young adults. It can be an effective treatment for a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, developmental disorders, and behavioral problems. Individual Psychotherapy: Individual counseling/psychotherapy is a process in which the therapist establishes a professional relationship with the client in order to alleviate emotional distress, change patterns of behavior that are no longer working for the client, and encourage personal growth and development to improve functioning at home, work and in their community. Individual psychotherapy may also focus on symptom management, which involves developing coping skills and techniques to enable the client to recognize the onset of their symptoms and engage in activities designed to prevent, manage, or reduce these symptoms. Couples Therapy: Couples therapy is a is a type of psychotherapy that can help couples improve their communication and resolve conflicts. The therapist uses specialized therapeutic techniques to explore and address the relationship dynamics and interactions that impact each partner’s emotions and behaviors. Diagnostic Evaluations: Psychosocial evaluations are conducted for adults that would like an evaluation of their mental health and to determine if they have a mental health diagnosis. A written report is provided to the adult. Consultations for Adults We offer 60-minute coaching/consultations for individuals who would like to work through a particular problem or concern but are not interested in pursuing consistent psychotherapy services at this time. Online Virtual Session Available Schedule an Appointment Client Testimonials

Hola! Soy Mary... Hello! I'm Mary Mary Taveras Garcia is a bilingual licensed clinical social worker and accomplished leader, with more than 20 years of experience in mental health advocacy, program innovation, and delivering culturally competent care. Mary brings over 32 years of experience in individual, group, and family therapy. She has held various roles at Inwood Community Services, including clinician in the Youthlink, Drop-In, and Mental Health Clinics, before becoming Unit Director in 2012. Mary is also a skilled psychotherapist in the Mental Health Program and has served as a substance abuse counselor in the Comprehensive Outpatient Addiction Program. In addition, Mary conducts clinical and developmental evaluations for children aged 0-3 referred by the NYC Early Intervention Program. Areas of Expertise: Mary addresses a wide range of behavioral health concerns, including adjustment disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, conduct disorders, aging issues, couples/marriage counseling, compulsive behaviors, crisis/trauma, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, family conflicts, grief/loss, LGBTQ+ issues, parenting challenges, personal growth, personality disorders, relationship concerns, sexual abuse, substance abuse, PTSD, and life transitions. Treatment Approaches: Mary utilizes evidence-based methodologies such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, supportive psychotherapy, solution-focused therapy, and brief therapy. Certifications and Assessment Tools: Licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R) – New York and New Jersey; Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) – New York Assessment Tools: Hawaii Early Learning Profile (HELP), Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Developmental Assessment of Young Children (DAYC), Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule 2 (ADOS) Back TESTIMONIALS Eric Erickson I have known Ms. Taveras-Garcia for almost my entire 20-year career as a social worker. In fact, she was one of the most influential figures early I my career. She not only provided me with her expertise in clinical work during my 10 years working for the Washington Heights Community, but also modeled the ideals of social work in her practice. Her dedication has inspired me to continue my work in Northern Manhattan and has shaped the way I assist New Clinicians in the field as a Clinical Supervisor. LinkedIn - Mary Taveras, LCSW, CASAC