< 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

< 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

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

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

Family Therapy and Collateral Counseling Family therapy is a is a type of psychotherapy that can help family members improve their communication and resolve conflicts. The therapist uses specialized therapeutic techniques to modify the family structure, their dynamics and interactions that impact the family members’ emotions and behavior. Collateral counseling is a psychotherapy session with a parent, a spouse, family member, or friend of the client. The collateral is not considered a client, but their contributions and support can be clinically beneficial to a client’s treatment. Online Virtual Session Available Schedule an Appointment

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 Chief Clinical Officer of Minette LCSW Psychotherapy Services PLLC, a clinic she co-founded 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 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

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< Back Leah Seidman MSW Social Work Intern Leah Seidman is pursuing an a dvanced graduate intern pursuing her masters degree from Yeshiva University. She is an Advanced Graduate Intern with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Yeshiva University. Her experience lies in working with young children providing play therapy. The best advice she has received is "keep trying and building connections with people". She enjoys connecting with clients and getting to know people and building relationships. To schedule an appointment with Leah, please contact the clinic directly. (201) 724-5489 minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< Back Irene Friedland, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Irene Friedland, LMSW, is an expert in working with clients with depression, grief, anxiety/panic/phobias, eating/weight concerns, and issues related to immigrants/acculturation. She is highly experienced in working with teenagers, young adults, adults, and seniors. Her knowledge in couples therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) guides her client interactions. She has a background in marital/couples therapy, group therapy, and therapy with young adolescents. Family and coworkers describe her as supportive and funny. Her joy comes from being inspired by her clients and helping them feel empowered. She earned her master's degree in social work from Fordham University and bachelor's degree from Barnard College Columbia University To schedule an appointment with Irene, please contact the clinic directly. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< Back Iris Vivier, LMSW Licensed Master Social Worker Iris Vivier, LMSW, obtained her master's degree in social work from Fordham University. She specializes in areas such as depression, anxiety/phobias/panic, trauma, grief, and domestic violence. Currently, she works with young adults aged 19-29, as well as adults and seniors. Her expertise includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She is bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish fluently. She frequently reflects on her father's advice: "Stay ready so that you don't have to get ready." She mentions that her father emphasized the significance of being prepared for any situation or opportunity. Her motivation stems from enhancing access to care and quality service for vulnerable populations. Clients note that her calm, composed, and straightforward approach is unmatched. She listens attentively, focuses on details, and provides constructive feedback. Her family describes her as intelligent, kind, unique, and dependable. To schedule an appointment with Iris, please contact the clinic directly. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489

< Back Kelly De Leon MSW Social Work Intern Kelly De Leon is an Advanced Graduate Student Intern, pursuing her master's degree in social work at Lehman College. CUNY. Her expertise is in working with teens and young adult who are in need of help with anxiety/phobias/panic, trauma, and domestic violence. She also speaks conversational Spanish. Kelly's expertise is in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Motivational Therapy (MI) when working with clients. Kelly says the best piece of advice she has ever been given is "Individuals respond based on their own unique experiences. By staying mindful of this, you can build stronger connections and make meaningful progress with clients". It reminds her and her clients that small, meaningful actions lead to big transformation over time. The most inspiring about her work is witnessing the incredible growth and progress my clients achieve. It's truly uplifting to see their strength and resilience unfold as they develop and thrive over time. To schedule an appointment with Kelly, please contact the clinic directly. minettetherapy@gmail.com (201) 724-5489