Wise Mind Psychological Services
Rachel M. Bowley, Psy.D.
Psychologist - Clinical Director
Dr. Bowley is the Clinical Director of Wise Mind Psychological Services P.L.L.C. She holds a Doctorate in Psychology from Hofstra University and has been trained extensively in evidence based treatments including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She has completed trainings conducted by Behavioral Tech, LLC developed by Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. including an intensive workshop on Mindfulness led by Dr. Linehan herself.
Dr. Bowley has provided treatment to children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, mood, behavioral and personality disorders in a variety of settings including schools, inpatient, day treatment, and outpatient facilities. Through DBT, Dr. Bowley offers comprehensive treatment; both individual and group therapy, for adolescents and adults who struggle with: chaotic relationships, family conflict, frequent mood swings, impulsive behaviors, intense fears of abandonment, inadequate sense of self, and recurrent suicidal or self-injurious behavior.
Nicole Stanek, LCSW
Assistant Clinical Director - Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Nicole holds a Masters in Social Welfare from Stony Brook University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches and has extensive experience treating a multitude of mental health diagnoses, including Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Over the course of her career, she has worked in mental health
clinic programs, intensive outpatient programs, and has also worked supervising other clinicians in the field. Nicole utilizes an integrative, and person-centered approach to treatment. She pulls from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to assist her clients. Nicole is passionate about creating a warm and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel safe and heard. Nicole works with individuals aged 18+ and is aware that one size does not fit all when it comes to treatment. She is willing to tailor treatment to meet your specific needs. She looks forward to helping you on your journey!
Kyle Cleary
Mental Health Practitioner, LP
Kyle obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Psychology at the CUNY Hunter College and his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Southwest. Kyle is most passionate about LGBTQIA+ issues as he is a member of the community himself. He strives to create a supportive and empowering environment for his clients to take control of their lives. His clients are the narrators of their own stories. He works to provide them with a safe space to discuss anything they need to so they can find resolve together. He is interested in a myriad of theories to help clients. Some that he is most passionate about are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), person-centered approaches, Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Trauma-focused approaches, virtual play therapy for children, and Art Therapy.
Adriana Doskowska, MHC-LP
Mental Health Counselor - LP
Adriana holds a Master's degree in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She has experience providing both couples counseling and one-on-one individual therapy to a wide variety of clients, including professionals in high-pressure fields such as law enforcement.
Her areas of expertise include anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, and family conflict. She works primarily from a cognitive-behavioral approach, though she does not believe that one approach fits all. She upholds her values by collaborating with clients as a team to find the approaches that best support their individual needs and goals.
Adriana is committed to holding space for clients through compassion, warmth, and a sense of humor, believing that healing does not have to be heavy.
Brandy Thomas, MHC-LP
Mental Health Practitioner, LP
Brandy holds a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Hofstra University and has extensive experience working with adolescents, and adults across a variety of settings, including residential and integrated behavioral healthcare. Her expertise includes addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, adjustment difficulties, self-esteem, chronic pain, and grief. Brandy has special training in treating athletes and sports performance issues. Brandy takes a person-centered approach to therapy, drawing on a range of behavioral theories and interventions to tailor her care to each individual’s unique needs. She is deeply passionate about supporting her clients' mental health journeys and is committed to providing compassionate, effective care that fosters lasting growth and well-being.
Sophia Yu, MHC-LP
Mental Health Counselor - LP
Sophia holds a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from SUNY Oswego and practices under a limited permit. She approaches each client through a person-centered, culturally responsive lens, integrating evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), along with psychodynamic approaches that explore the impact of early relationships and attachment experiences.
As a first-generation Asian American and first-generation college student, Sophia brings both personal insight and professional intention to her work with individuals across the lifespan. She is particularly passionate about supporting immigrant populations and clients navigating acculturation, identity development, and belonging.
Sophia's clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and interpersonal challenges. She values individualized care and recognizes that healing is not a linear process. Her goal is to create a collaborative, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, build practical coping skills, and work toward meaningful and lasting change.
Rayana Angelillo, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Rayana holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Columbia University. She works with children, adolescents, emerging adults that present with a multitude of struggles. Rayana has worked in school, outpatient, and private mental health settings. She uses multiple modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectial Behavior Therapy (DBT), and strengths-based perspectives. Rayana works well with clients and their families to navigate the struggles that the client is having and to achieve a positive and sustainable change.
Theresa Ruge, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Theresa holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Buffalo. Her training and experience are tailored around trauma therapy, strength based therapy, resiliency and emotional healing. She has worked in several settings such as outpatient chemical dependency programs, outpatient behavioral health clinics and primary care with adults and adolescents. Theresa utilizes an integrative and therapeutic approach focusing on the needs of the client and the client’s goals. She is EMDR trained, EFT (tapping technique) trained, and has several years of experience utilizing evidence-based practices to help those who suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma and interpersonal issues and more. Theresa believes in a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to feel comfortable in therapy. She helps enable clients to recognize strengths and capabilities to face life’s challenges. She will collaborate with you to set obtainable goals that you would like to achieve and support you along your personal journey.
Sam Malebranche, LMSW, J.D.
Licensed Master Social Worker & J.D.
Sam Malebranche, LMSW, J.D. earned his Master's Degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Prior to becoming a therapist, he completed New York Law School's Two-Year Honors Program and spent several years in public service as an attorney. His experience working alongside people during periods of stress, uncertainty, and significant life challenges inspired his transition into psychotherapy.
Sam works with emerging adults and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation, identity development, and life transitions. His approach draws from both cognitive and somatic perspectives and is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Polyvagal Theory, along with emerging training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and other somatic approaches. Inspired by Hakomi psychotherapy, Sam views therapy as assisted self-study.
Sam believes our thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences are inextricably interconnected, and he invites clients to explore each as a meaningful source of information. He creates a therapeutic space where clients feel met where they are, never rushed, and accompanied as they explore their own experience — whether they are reconnecting with themselves or learning to connect with themselves for the first time.
Jillian Yuni, LCAT, ATR-BC
Licensed Creative Arts Therapist, Board Certified
Jillian holds a Master’s degree in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling from Hofstra University. She specializes in using art therapy techniques to help her clients explore and express their emotions. Utilizing art in therapy can help to reduce stress and empower clients to communicate in an unconventional way that may feel easier and less daunting than traditional talk therapy. Jillian believes that you don’t have to be an “artist” or have prior experience in order to create meaningful art; there is no right or wrong. Art therapy may be a great fit for some and not for others, and Jillian is able to adapt to what will most benefit her clients whether that is art therapy or traditional talk therapy. Jillian has experience with a variety of populations and settings. She has worked with children and adolescents who are dealing with loss, anxiety, depression, stress, and self-esteem issues, older adults in assisted living and memory care facilities, and has led groups on an in-patient psychiatric unit. Jillian is especially passionate about working with families who have been affected by a physical illness or bereavement; children, parents, and siblings of the directly-affected person. Her therapeutic approach is person-centered, and she supports her clients in their therapeutic journey. Her compassionate nature helps her clients feel at ease, regardless of their background.
Kevin Smedman, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Kevin holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Temple University. He has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who are impacted by trauma, child abuse/neglect, adverse childhood experiences, substance use, mental health, and systemic societal challenges. Kevin’s approach is integrative; he uses Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused, and Solution-Focused methods to meet the unique needs of each individual. He partners with clients to identify their strengths and develop practical everyday skills which they can use to live a more intentional and fulfilled life. Kevin strives to create a safe space for people of all backgrounds to tell their story and be heard. Kevin works with older adolescents, young adults, and adults on issues that may include anxiety, depression, trauma, child abuse/neglect, family conflicts and boundary setting, LQBTQ+ related issues, life and career changes, and anger.
Eshika Garg, MHC-LP
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Eshika graduated from Adelphi University with a degree in Mental Health Counseling . She blends trauma-informed therapy, CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and positive psychology with multicultural counseling knowledge, allowing her to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Eshika specializes in supporting children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, interpersonal and intrapersonal difficulties, and behavioral addictions. She is passionate about empowering clients to navigate life’s challenges, develop coping skills, and achieve personal growth—helping them fall in love with themselves again.
Marc Esposito - LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Marc earned his Master’s in Social Work from Stony Brook University (SUNY) and a Master’s
in General and Special Education from Queens College (CUNY). He provides psychotherapy to
adolescents, young adults, and families navigating anxiety, mood disorders, executive
functioning challenges, and neurodiverse presentations, including ADHD and Autism. His
clinical training includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and
strengths-based interventions. He offers a structured, collaborative therapeutic environment
focused on emotional regulation, insight development, self-advocacy, and building sustainable
coping strategies that promote long-term resilience and psychological well-being.
Rodney Highsmith - MHC LP
Mental Health Counselor, LP
Rodney supports young adults and adults as they navigate life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth. His clients often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about their direction, and seeking a space where they can slow down, reflect, and feel genuinely understood. Rodney is a compassionate Mental Health Counselor, as a young African American male, he brings a grounded,
culturally responsive perspective to his work with individuals across the lifespan. His clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, grief, and the emotional impact of major life changes. Rodney’s approach to counseling is integrative and collaborative, thoughtfully
tailoring therapy to meet the unique needs, goals, and lived experiences of each client. He emphasizes building trust, strengthening emotional awareness, and fostering insight,
while creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel heard, respected, and supported.Rodney’s work is guided by the belief that meaningful change begins with connection—to yourself, to your emotions, and to a therapeutic space rooted in empathy and trust. Together, he helps clients develop resilience, deepen self- understanding, and move toward healing with greater clarity and confidence.
Antonina Lisi - LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Antonina holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University. She specializes in supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adults, while creating a safe, inclusive space for all clients. She draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT),
solution-focused strategies, and strengths-based approaches to meet each client’s unique goals. Antonina helps clients connect with their body, building emotional regulation and resilience to support lasting personal growth. She works with older adolescents, emerging adults, and adults on challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, identity exploration, life transitions, and self-esteem.
Danielle Cibrano- LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Danielle, LMSW, holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Hunter College’s Silberman School of Social Work. Danielle brings a diverse and dynamic background to her clinical work, with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families across school, community, recreational settings, and clinical settings. Danielle supports clients navigating anxiety disorders, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders, neurodivergence, identity development, relationship stress, and major life transitions. Her clinical perspective reflects a deep commitment to affirming, inclusive, and anti-oppressive care, ensuring that clients feel safe enough to explore who they are without fear of judgment. Danielle tailors her approach to
each individual, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic insight, trauma-informed care, and strengths-based interventions into her work. She approaches therapy with warmth, intentionality, and authenticity, creating a space where clients feel seen,
respected, and empowered. Danielle believes every person deserves support and has the capacity to heal, build resilience, develop practical coping tools, deepen self-understanding, and move toward meaningful, sustainable growth.
Charlotte Knight - MHC-LP
Mental Health Counselor, LP
Charlotte holds a Masters in Mental Health Counselling from SUNY Old Westbury. Her clinical experience has centered on helping individuals work through the complex impact of trauma, whether sexual, physical, or emotional. She is a firm believer that the past informs the present, and she meets each client with the understanding that the symptoms which brought them to therapy once served a protective purpose, even if they now stand in the way.
Her approach is primarily psychodynamic, integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) where they are helpful to the work. Charlotte sees her role as offering a relationship in which clients can explore what brought them in, choose where they want to go, and be met with unconditional positive regard throughout that process.
She is committed to creating a space where clients feel genuinely accepted, and she works alongside each person to find a lighter way of living.
Tara Gajewski - LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Tara earned her Master of Social Work from Sacred Heart University. She works with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and the everyday stressors that accumulate over time. She recognizes how overwhelming these experiences can feel, and she meets each person with empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping them find clarity and balance.
Her clinical approach integrates evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. Drawing on these modalities, Tara helps clients develop practical coping strategies, build emotional awareness, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Tara believes therapy should be a collaborative and empowering process. Her goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself without judgment, explore your thoughts and emotions openly, and work toward your personal goals at your own pace. Whether you are facing a major life transition or simply feeling stuck, Tara is here to support you in building resilience, gaining insight, and moving forward with greater confidence and purpose.