Nakia Roberson, LPC

Cherese Allen is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with adolescents, teens, and adults. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Houston and earned her master's degree from Houston Christian University. Additionally, she completed an internship at a private practice in Texas. Upon obtaining her license, she achieved certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Shame-Informed Therapy, and Eating Disorders.

With years of experience in both education and private practice, Cherese has helped individuals, couples, and families overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. Her expertise includes, but is not limited to, addressing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, career changes, and major life transitions.

Cherese employs a holistic approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. She believes that with the right tools, you can conquer many obstacles and reach your desired destination. Cherese looks forward to supporting you on your journey!

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Julia Ficachi, is a New York City–based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adolescents and adults from a relational perspective. She is fluent in Spanish and German and has experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Julia integrates a range of approaches, including EFT tapping and guided visualization, and has facilitated spirituality-focused groups for adults living with chronic and persistent mental illness. When working with couples, she draws from her training in the Gottman Method.

Julia’s work is grounded in authenticity, warmth, and deep respect for the client experience. She prioritizes empathy and compassion and is intentional about creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen and understood. Julia believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential for healing and meaningful change.

Julia meets clients exactly where they are, taking time to understand their deepest fears, strengths, and hopes. She collaborates with clients to establish treatment goals and incorporates exploration of family history and cultural influences as part of the therapeutic process.

Barb VanHouten, LCSW, provides a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where clients feel heard and supported. She brings a wealth of personal and professional experiences that have shaped her insight, knowledge, and empathy, enabling her to walk alongside others during their most difficult times. Barb believes that everyone has a story, and that life’s challenges can sometimes become overwhelming, leading to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and despair.

Barb specializes in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, anger management, addiction, bipolar disorder, antisocial behaviors, family relationships, grief and bereavement, life transitions, job and employment issues, medical and physical health concerns, PTSD, somatic symptom disorders, learning disorders, stress, and trauma. Her goal is to create a therapeutic space where clients feel empowered to explore challenges and build resilience.

Barb uses a variety of evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. Her methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Informed Care, Behavioral Modification, Internal Family Systems, Strength-Based approaches, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She collaborates with clients to develop practical, effective solutions for growth and healing.

Helmi Henkin, LCSW, graduated from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and French and earned her Master of Social Work from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis. She brings 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults in residential and outpatient facilities, schools, and private practice.

Helmi is a proud member of the LGBTQ community and prioritizes a person-centered approach to care. She values cultivating a safe and affirming environment for all patients, regardless of identity. Her primary therapeutic approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which guides her collaborative and compassionate work with clients.

During the first session, Helmi conducts an intake to understand each patient’s background, concerns, and goals. She develops treatment plans collaboratively to ensure they are tailored and meaningful. Known for her empathy and use of humor, she builds rapport with patients while guiding them toward personal growth and well-being.

Kayla is a dedicated therapist with a robust educational background and extensive experience in the field of psychology. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Florida International University and completed a Master of Science at Nova Southeastern University. During her internship at Aventura Hospital and Medical Center, Kayla worked within inpatient psychiatric units, gaining valuable experience in crisis management and acute psychiatric care. Kayla has a particular interest in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. She brings empathy, understanding, and a client-centered approach to her practice, ensuring that each individual feels heard and supported on their journey to mental wellness. Outside of their professional life, Kayla enjoys spending quality time with family and her two dogs. Whether hiking or relaxing by the beach, she cherishes these moments of connection and tranquility.

Matthew Green is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of New York with over seven years of experience in outpatient settings, both in person and virtual. He earned his master’s degree from St. Bonaventure University and began his career at Olean Counseling Center, where he also completed his internship. Licensed since 2022, Matthew brings compassion and clinical expertise to each session.

Matthew strives to create a warm, supportive, and open space where clients feel safe, heard, and respected. He believes trust is essential to meaningful therapeutic work and values open communication to set clear, collaborative goals. His approach is grounded in mutual respect and genuine connection.

In the first session, Matthew gathers a thorough history to understand the full scope of a client’s experiences and goals. He then creates an individualized treatment plan and focuses initially on coping strategies to support day-to-day functioning. As therapy progresses, the work shifts toward deeper issues and goal achievement.

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