
Agathe C. Pierre-Louis, Psy.D
Statement:
One of the greatest lessons I have learned as a clinical psychologist, “No matter the struggles that bring someone in treatment, I can always see their beauty within, entangled in their pain and shame. My role is to hold space for the pain to be grieved, for the shame to be processed and to support their healing in the corrective experience of gifting themselves compassion, empathy and kindness.”
With over 12 years of clinical work, I have provided psychological treatment and assessments to adolescents, adults and geriatric patients with an array of clinical issues, namely: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, anger management, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, infertility, grief, cancer and perinatal mood disorders. I provide treatment in various settings such as inpatient and outpatient psychiatric treatment hospitals, community-based centers, forensic facilities, and short-term rehabilitation centers.
Credentials/Bio
Dr. Louis completed her Master’s in Education and Human Services at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. She later fulfilled her desire to become a Clinical Psychologist at the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Orange County, California. Her clinical training was at the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health outpatient and inpatient treatment facilities, a leading clinical training site in the country. She has also participated in extensive training with Postpartum International Support (PSI), a world-renowned organization leading the support and professional training for maternal mental health. Additionally, she has completed a year-long Fertility Counseling Post Graduate course.
Dr. Louis is the founder of EMBRACE Therapy, which focuses on women’s mental health, providing individual, couple and group therapy. The therapeutic modalities she uses in treatment are Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), which is psychodynamically oriented and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment. Both treatment models are short-term and solution-focused. They have been highly researched and proven to be effective in a variety of psychiatric disorders. Her goal is that at the end of the journey in treatment, you will have obtained insight, change in perspective, increase in your self-awareness and have gained newly learned coping skills to improve the quality of your life.
She brings a passion for facilitating workshops to providers or to lay audiences on the importance of mental wellbeing. Her overarching goal is to help decrease the stigma of mental health and to send the message: “it’s okay not to be okay. There is relief in receiving treatment.” She has been invited as a speaker on subjects relating to postpartum depression and anxiety, motherhood, sexual health and spirituality, mental health and breastfeeding, teen dating violence, effective communications skills, secondary trauma of providers in doula training conferences, training programs for doctors, nurses, and social workers. Dr. Louis recently completed an independent research study on The Strong Black Woman and her experience of Postpartum Depression which was presented at the 30th Annual Postpartum Support International (PSI) conference held at the University of Pennsylvania. She also hosts the radio show, “Mind, Body and Spirit” on WTBQ/WGHT. She has published a workbook entitled: Doula Revolution: Transforming your Mind, Body and Spirit. Currently, she is working on her next book entitled: Embracing Her.
Dr. Louis is ardently committed to helping individuals become more productive and functioning beings. With an open and inviting space, she wants to journey with you while you endure and overcome life’s challenges. Believing that her most positive attribute is her undeniable passion for this work. Dr. Louis states. “I will endeavor to reinforce to you that “you” matter by giving you my utmost attention, support, honesty, integrity, and respect through this EMBRACE. “

Breanna Catucci, LMHC
Family therapist Virginia Satir once said, “As a therapist, I am a companion. I try to help people tune into their own wisdom”. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals so that they may find their inner wisdom.
Breanna is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and graduate of New York University who specializes in perinatal mental health. She supports individuals through the emotional transitions that can accompany pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood, with a particular focus on perinatal anxiety, depression, and OCD. Breanna has received specialized training through Postpartum Support International.
Breanna believes therapy is most effective when it is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to the individual. Her approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing from psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and other evidence-informed practices. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, Breanna works alongside each client to understand their experiences, explore patterns that may be impacting their well-being, and develop tools that feel meaningful and sustainable.
Breanna strives to create a therapeutic space where clients feel safe to be honest, understood without judgment, and supported through periods of growth and change.
Breanna feels honored to support clients through some of life’s most vulnerable and transformative moments. She approaches each therapeutic relationship with warmth, curiosity, and genuine compassion, meeting clients where they are and working collaboratively toward greater self-understanding, confidence, and well-being.

Attakuma Drakes, M.S.Ed.
“I strive to create a safe, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, strengthen their emotional well-being, and work toward meaningful personal growth.”
Attakuma Drakes obtained his degree in Master of Science in Education at Alfred University and later matriculated at the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies with a certificate of Advanced Study in Mental Health Counseling.
Attakuma brings a wealth of knowledge from an educational/school lens, working alongside students and parents ranging from adolescents to young adults. In the clinical sphere, he provides individual counseling, crisis intervention, and emotional support to adolescents and young adults navigating a wide range of challenges. Attakuma specializes in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, identity development, relationship difficulties, and personality-related concerns.
Attakuma embraces the unique dynamics of working with both genders and fosters his clients to adopt a holistic perspective. His style is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each client’s unique needs, helping them build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and gain confidence as they navigate life transitions.
Attakuma states, “I strive to create a safe, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, strengthen their emotional well-being, and work toward meaningful personal growth.”

Jennifer Hovnanian, LMSW
“Nothing is more important than empathy for another human being’s suffering. Nothing. Not a career, not wealth, not intelligence, certainly not status. We have to feel for one another if we’re going to survive with dignity”’- Aubrey Hepburn
The ability to connect and make a difference in the life of others has always been Jennifer’s guiding light. Her ability to connect so easily and attune to her client’s emotions are one of her greatest strengths. She aspires to create a safe space for her clients, to feel seen and heard, as she believes these moments are the healing elements to every wounded soul.
After earning a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work, Jennifer furthered her education at NY Medical College. She has worked in the healthcare field for three decades taking on many different roles, of which included several leadership positions. Through these experiences, Jennifer has kept her focus on the work of service and drowning out the background noise of organization politics. Jennifer has defined herself by making her life’s work about inspiring others to recognize the beauty of serving those in need with grace. The kind, gentle approach she has, meshes well with strength based positive psychology, psychodynamic therapy technique, schema and interpersonal therapy. Through these therapeutic processes, Jennifer continues to strive by honoring every individual in her presence, helping them share their story in a safe, nurturing space. Jennifer truly cares about others; the inspiration for this work came early from the love her amazing grandmother had for her. The legacy of that love carries her onward in this profession. The message of beauty and warmth rings true with this quote: “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others, for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness: and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are not alone.” – Audrey Hepburn.
Working hard is no stranger to Jennifer, but when she kicks back, she enjoys the elegance of vintage fashion. Any chance she gets, she surrounds herself in nature where she jogs amongst the trees. Lastly, her greatest joy are the moments she shares laughing hysterically with her three fantastic boys! Laughter warms the soul.

Carol Majewski, LMHC
Child and Family Specialist
“We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize.”
-Thich Nhat Hanh.
Ms. Majewski believes that we are all a work in progress and there is always more to learn about ourselves in each moment on our road of life. She is honored to sit across from her clients and become a part of their journey.
Ms. Majewski earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from St. Francis College and her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from SUNY New Paltz, with a focus on Lifespan Development and Disaster Mental Health. She has received certificates in Attachment Theory and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Her clinical experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families in various settings has given Carol the skills to adjust to the many challenges that clients present within the therapeutic space. She spent several years in a school setting, primarily with children in the Special Education Program, where she worked with students who struggled with impulse control, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. Ms. Majewski has spent time in Early Education, where she developed classroom behavioral support plans while also seeing children outside of the classroom for individual and group therapy. Likewise, she trained individuals in parenting skills workshops, where she instructed adults in positive, emotionally aware, and developmentally appropriate parenting techniques throughout childhood.
Most recently, Carol had the opportunity to work in an intensive, home-based adolescent and family program for youth identified as at risk of placement outside the home. During this time, Carol provided individual and family counseling, as well as virtual DBT groups for adolescents and parents.
Ms. Majewski uses an eclectic approach with clients, grounded in Attachment Theory, incorporating aspects of CBT, Mindfulness, and concrete DBT coping techniques. Carol encourages adult clients to acknowledge and explore their emotions, seek those things that align with their values, and practice healthy self-care. While working with children and adolescents, she enjoys integrating art, crafts, music, games, and storytelling which allow a safe space to release difficult emotions. Her passion to work with adolescents and children are highlighted throughout her career. The young in “age” and the young at “heart” have taught her that growth is available at any stage in life. Only one’s willingness is the first step.

Latonya James, MFT-LP
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is what are you doing for others?” – Martin Luther King
An empowering quote from Martin Luther King: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is what are you doing for others?” It calls us to connect to our inner altruistic nature and serve. Latonya James stated, “In my own journey, I have answered this call to action by advocating for victims of violence, volunteering with community programs and ultimately choosing a career in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Latonya James obtained her undergraduate degree in legal studies. She is currently completing her pre-licensed hours towards her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family therapy at Mercy University. Latonya is also an Army Veteran and a Certified Victims Advocate for the Westchester Medical Center. She believes that in the therapeutic room, change can be manifested through the expression of empathy and validation which fosters a warm and inviting environment. The process of grief and loss are weaved throughout all therapeutic presentations. A quote that speaks of the grief process and guides her practice states: “The hole never fills, but new life will grow around it, so plant some seeds and do whatever makes you feel better or help you get through the toughest parts.” One of Latonya’s tenets is that she meets her clients where they are. She also encourages a collaborative process to aid her clients to define their vision of success. The simple lesson of showing kindness because you never know what someone’s journey involves was taught to her in childhood, and it has paved her path to become a helper. She is looking forward to journeying with her clients to a healed landing space.
Latonya enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and seeks to expand her mind and expose herself to new adventures whether in a book or en-vivo.

Beverly Jensen, LMFT
Beverly Jensen believes that fostering healthy, loving connections with the mind, body and spirit are important aspects of the human journey. This perspective is the mantra that guides her in every facet of her personal and professional life.
Beverly is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist where she obtained her degree at Mercy University. She is dedicated to collaborating with you to help you unlock your true self, create a fulfilling life, and cultivate meaningful relationships. A quote that inspires her practice states, “Therapy is a journey, not a destination. It’s about learning to love and accept yourself, and to find the strength to change the things you can.” – unknown. If you are looking for guidance through a challenging situation, seeking to develop better relationships, or reframe your mindset, Beverly will utilize complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques that will enable change.
With a background in the performing arts and fifteen years of mentoring and coaching children, she understands how the tools cultivated in therapy are elemental in fostering resiliency and breeding change. Together, she will support you in identifying your needs, establishing goals, and discovering how best to cultivate self-compassion, awareness, and growth. Merging the elements of the mind and body can bring about an awakening of change.
Through a cognitive perspective lens, Beverly challenges her clients to “Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at change.”- Wayne Dyer. Your best version of yourself is waiting to meet you.

Roseanne Vitiello, MHC-LP
B.F. Skinner once said, “A failure is not always a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.”
B.F. Skinner once said, “A failure is not always a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.”
Roseanne has a BS in Sociology and holds a MS in Organizational Leadership, an MHC-LP, graduating with distinction from Mercy University and a CASAC-G Level 2 trained in substance use and gambling addictions. Over the years Roseanne has had a background working within a substance use inpatient rehabilitation setting and a community clinic treating individuals with co-occurring conditions and has 15 years’ experience working within the foster care system as a Certified Foster Parent.
Roseanne works with individuals to help them process past hurts and trauma in a non-judgmental way. With her gentle approach she helps to guide them to their safe place. “My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for my clients to have the freedom to trust in sharing their utmost deepest thoughts and feelings.” The therapeutic process is about meeting individuals where they are on their healing journey.” “As individuals we are all a work in progress and I view everyone as their own true self and respect them in their role as mother, father, sister, or brother, son or daughter.”
With her gentle and kind style Roseanne uses a person-centered approach working to meet individuals where they are within their healing journey. Whether you’ve attended therapy in the past or this is your first time doing so, Roseanne will guide you in processing past hurts and traumas in a therapeutic environment to get you to your safe place, treating individuals with anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, grief and loss, and sexual trauma.
Roseanne is committed to the individual therapy process and will help to intrinsically navigate you to get to the next phase.

Rochelle Mercer, LMSW
“Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope” – Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
Rochelle Mercer stands on the promises of hope that no matter the circumstance, trouble doesn’t last always. This beacon of light is what she holds in the therapeutic space to engage clients in the healing process.
Rochelle Mercer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She obtained her Master’s in Social Work degree from Adelphi University. Rochelle has worked in various settings within the field of Social Work and has served in various roles, including special projects and managerial duties, within child welfare, mental health, substance use, and early intervention. She currently serves as a Maternal Health Supervisor for a maternal care program. Rochelle strives to provide a supportive and empathic safe space for pregnant women and ultimately anyone she encounters. In the therapeutic process, her clients have been taught how deep the veins of resiliency lie. Resiliency produces character and character displays the lessons that have been taught. Rochelle journeys with her clients by utilizing the tools of Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, and Interpersonal Therapy based on their needs. She employs psycho-education with her clients who are managing through the postpartum period. No matter the techniques being used, Rochelle embodies a strength-based perspective that has been proven to be effective.
Rochelle also enjoys community service, singing, dancing, and event planning and decor. Her favorite quote is: “ Her mantra is, know your baseline, stay grounded, and remain steadfast in your faith.”

Jennie Pearse, LMSW
The Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu once said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step”. The choice to begin therapy, to take that first step, is often a difficult one; riddled with uncertainty. However, once the journey has begun, each step becomes a little easier.
Jennie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Ms. Pearse received her Bachelor of Social Work at the College of New Rochelle and her Master of Social Work at the University at Buffalo; graduating Summa Cum Laude from both programs. Throughout her professional career, Ms. Pearse has had the opportunity to work with various populations. From inmates to Special Education Students, homeless to high-risk youth, Ms. Pearse has learned that every person has the innate ability to overcome the challenges set before them. Ms. Pearse has firsthand experience with the struggles (and successes) of raising and advocating for special needs children, the emotional labors of merging a blended family, as well as the wide array of feelings and prejudice surrounding adoption, foster care, and interracial families.
Believing that by learning to understand our physiological self, we can develop a more complete understanding of our psychological and emotional self, Ms. Pearse embraces a concentration in Schema Therapy and Human Behavior. While Ms. Pearse has a working knowledge and understanding of several therapeutic modalities (CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, etc.), she believes that the natural ebb and flow of the therapeutic relationship will dictate the intervention needed to facilitate success.
Ms. Pearse’s warm and accepting personality enables her to create a safe place for all her clients. Understanding that the therapeutic process is not a race, but a lifelong journey toward peace and happiness, Ms. Pearse allows her clients to move at the pace they feel most comfortable, while not being afraid to offer a little comforting nudge when needed. In addition to using her EFT training with adults and adolescents, Ms. Pearse provides a safe and straightforward space for couples to recognize their triggers, rebuild trust, and renew their connection. Believing that honesty is the best policy, she can forge relationships that enable her to deliver her services in a way that encourages growth, trust, and stability for her clients. Whatever path has led her clients to therapy, Ms. Pearse is humbled and honored to take the first step of that thousand-mile journey, alongside her clients.

Lismary Betances
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” – Desmond Tutu.
Lismary aspires to be a beacon of light, a reminder to all that the path ahead is achievable with one small step.
Lismary Betances takes a holistic and collaborative approach to healing, recognizing that the client is the expert in their own lives. By allowing them to lead, Lismary holds space and listens to the narratives and experiences that have led individuals to where they are. Through this collaborative approach, Lismary helps with identifying strengths, overcoming challenges, and working towards meaningful goals.
Lismary has obtained a bachelor’s in psychology and sociology from Mercy University. Lismary is currently completing her pre-licensed hours toward her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Mercy University. Lismary believes and is guided by the power of connection and relationship. A great quote from Brené Brown is “I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.”
One of the biggest lessons Lismary has learned from a client is that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach. Change and growth are not linear, and she will support you in those moments of turmoil and resistance, working together towards lasting change. Having worked with children, adolescents, teens, and adults; Lismary believes that our earlier experiences play a significant role in shaping us into who we are. She encourages clients to come as they are, recognizing that addressing struggles with openness is one of the first steps to growth.

Lauren Orrell
“Stay afraid, but do it anyway. What’s important is the action. You don’t have to wait to be confident. Just do it, and eventually, the confidence will follow.” – Carrie Fisher.
Perfection simply does not exist, and if perfection is what you seek, you may never find the most beautiful parts of yourself that are fractured but yet can brighten the biggest galaxy. Lauren Orrell embraces the fragmented pieces of her clients. Together, they will nurture and soften the pieces to make a masterpiece.
Lauren graduated from St. John’s University with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in psychology. She is completing her degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Mercy University. Lauren also currently works in a behavioral health setting where she supports children and adolescents who have been diagnosed with autism.
Lauren is certified as a Registered Behavioral Technician by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
Lauren uses a humanistic approach to treatment, which emphasizes recognizing every client as a whole person and more than just their symptoms. She seeks to support the whole family and identify the core issues, applying strategies from several other kinds of theories, including cognitive-behavioral, sociocultural, and narrative therapies. Lauren believes it is a privilege to engage with her clients in the therapy space.
The greatest lesson Lauren has learned from her clients is that every individual has their own unique strengths, and that with support and understanding, those strengths can become powerful sources of growth, healing, and resilience. Her message to her clients is “Stay afraid, but do it anyway. What’s important is the action. You don’t have to wait to be confident. Just do it, and eventually, the confidence will follow.” – Carrie Fisher.

Rony Thomas
“As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.”
Rony Thomas holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Mercy University and is currently completing her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Mercy University. She has several years of experience working in educational settings and is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families find healing through connection and understanding. Rony has collaborated with students, parents, and teachers from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. This experience has deepened her awareness of how environment, culture, and communication shape the way individuals grow, relate, and heal.
Rony’s therapeutic approach is both narrative and collaborative. She believes her role as a therapist is to create a safe and compassionate space for clients to explore their stories, redefine their experiences, and uncover their strengths. She is led by the belief that when people can make sense of their stories and share them authentically, they begin to find their voice. The biggest lesson Rony has learned from sitting across from her clients is the resilience of the human spirit, the ability to take accountability, embrace vulnerability, and grow through adversity.
“As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.” This quote by Rumi connects deeply with Rony because it reminds her that even in the most difficult times, when it feels impossible to move forward, taking one small step can make all the difference. Whether that step comes from faith, strength, or simply necessity, each one brings us closer to clarity and light. It is a reminder that healing and growth often unfold through the courage to keep going, even when the path isn’t yet clear. She holds dear this sentiment while in session with her clients. Her message to her clients is – regardless of where you are in your journey, I will be there to help you take that first step, walking alongside you as you find your own way toward healing and self-understanding.

Emily Miller
Emily is an integral part of Embrace Therapy as the Office Administrator. With over 10 years in healthcare operations focused in patient navigation, provider support and training, and credentialing for small and large group practices, Emily brings a practical understanding of how healthcare systems work behind the scenes. She’s passionate about women’s health and cares deeply about expanding access to mental health care for communities that are too often overlooked. She is guided by the philosophy of continuous improvement, and she is always looking for ways to make office and billing processes work better for our patients and therapists, so they can fully focus on what really matters for their care and support. Outside the office, she loves kayaking, hiking with her dog Laurel, and tending her garden & houseplants. She also plays guitar & clarinet, and loves going to concerts whenever she can.

Deborah Forman

Sarah Engelskirchen-Bugler, MA, LMHC
“People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Dr. Maya Angelou
