LaTonya Washington, LCSW

Akili’s approach is centered around the individual. His goal is to help people embrace their authentic self. He believes that counseling and the therapeutic process is experiential. He has been through most of the life struggles we all have been through. Akili has also written several books - the latest of which, “Be an Anomaly”, is about the autism spectrum. Beyond his passion for helping others, Akili is passionate about his family, drawing, music, and basketball.

Akili utilizes multimedia resources, oftentimes with an emphasis on writing and creativity. He works to create a warm atmosphere of welcoming energy and connection. Therapeutic modalities used include REBT, CBT, Positive Psychology, ACT, and Gottman Method.

The tools that Akili uses are those hidden within you. He uses creative therapy and behavioral techniques to help you get where you want to be. Your collaboration is a trip that you will embark on together. Akili will help you find the best solutions to the answers you have.

Beth Folks is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Certified Co-Occurring Disorder Diplomate. She has 25 years of experience helping clients recognize their inner strength. Her style of therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Beth tailors each treatment plan to fit the client's individual needs and encourages them to take an active role in every step of the journey. She strives to create a safe environment where the client feels they can speak openly. Beth most recently worked in a private practice for a psychiatrist as a psychotherapist via tele-health serving adults diagnosed with mental health issues. She has also worked in a residential setting where she supervised the care of clients with mental health and addiction issues. Bath worked closely with Psychiatrists and is familiar with most types of medications used currently. Beth obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in psychology from Ursinus College in Collegeville, PA. She then earned a Master of Science Degree at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. In addition, she obtained a post-master's certification in forensic treatment at Chestnut Hill College.

Rebecca Burns is a licensed clinical social worker with a vast range of experience working in the mental health field. Rebecca has worked directly with individuals of various backgrounds and age ranges. Rebecca attended Fordham University for her Bachelor's degree and attended Rutgers University where she received her MSW. To date, Rebecca has been practicing for 4 years as a clinical social worker in an outpatient setting. Over the years, Rebecca has worked with diverse clients seeking relief from a wide range of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, OCD, childhood/adult trauma, relationship issues, personality disorders, life transitions, stress, and navigating loss and grief. Rebecca is trained and certified in cognitive-based therapies, including CBT and TF-CBT. Practicing from a biopsychosocial lens, Rebecca integrates evidence-based treatments, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Strengths-Based Approaches to individualize treatment plans for each client. It is an important aspect of treatment to identify which approaches and interventions work best for each client's unique needs. Additionally, one of Rebecca's biggest priorities is to create the space for each client to build a trusting, non-judgmental and therapeutic relationship.

Ana Castro, LMHC received a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Queens College, City University of New York. She completed training at F.E.G.S and has worked in community mental health and outpatient hospital-based settings. Ana has 7 years of experience working with individuals as well as with children and families treating anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, and other mental health issues. Ana uses methods from psychoanalysis, CBT, DBT, along with light supportive therapy in order to provide a person-centered approach. She began by working at New York Psychotherapy and Counseling Center, working with individuals, as well as children and families in a high-risk area, providing family therapy, psychodynamic and behavioral therapy, and assisting with the coordination of care with outside agencies. Ana has worked at St. Joseph's Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic treating patients with various psychiatric illnesses. She has also worked at St. Vincent's- Westchester Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic, providing intake, diagnosis, and individual therapy to a population ranging from adolescents to late adults. Ana continues to work towards expanding her knowledge of evidence-based approaches in order to provide the best outcomes.

Tami is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master's Degree in the state of NY. She has been a therapist for about 8 years and attended graduate school at night while raising two amazing children. It is important for Tami to disclose this so that you know you are never too old to chase your dreams. She loves helping people and making a difference in people's lives. She uses various tools to help. If one tool isn't right, we search for others, never giving up! Tami is solution-focused but uses different approaches when helping clients. She likes to figure out which methods work best as there isn't a one size fits all way. She is a dedicated therapist with real world experience as well as clinical experience. Clients can expect to have great tools and coping mechanisms moving forward. Clients will know what steps need to be taken on their journey and will feel confident in knowing that they have Tami's support and commitment.

Lauren Mingle is an outpatient therapist at Talkiatry. She is dually licensed in Colorado as a LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist). Lauren earned her master's degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling/Therapy from the University of Northern Colorado. Before joining Talkiatry, Lauren held roles in a diverse array of settings including community mental health, crisis services, and outpatient therapy. Her previous specialty focuses included youth, adolescents, adults, and couples. Lauren uses a variety of evidence-based approaches including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to meet people where they are at and work with them to best reach their personalized therapy goals.