Kensho Psychotherapy Team

Kenshō is insight, an understanding of reality as it is. It’s an experience. It’s an awakening to needing something more in your life, to be followed by further skills or Psychotherapy to develop a deeper understanding and ability to express it in daily life.

We have assembled a dynamic group of independent professional therapists dedicated to providing the care you need. Meet the Kensho Psychotherapy Team:

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Nelli Carlese, LMSW

I see therapy as a wonderful space to feel heard, process your thoughts and emotions
with someone in a caring environment. Therapy is a gift, as it is difficult in a world with
so much noise to allow opportunity to reflect on one's self and life situations. I provide a
non-judgemental space and encourage my clients to share vulnerably and help them
find their inner strengths.

Nelli is a graduate from Hunter College and utilizes Trauma Focused CBT, Strength
Based approaches, DBT principals and mindfulness in her work.

She works with adults and adolescents, helping them discover who they are and
encouraging them on their journey, as well as some adults looking to add new coping
tools to improve their lives.

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Deborah May

A Psychotherapist in practice for over 20 years who specializes in women’s mental health; exploring a variety of female issues such as self worth and confidence, anxiety, feelings of depression as well as other emotional issues that prevent you from living up to your potential and finding a satisfying balance in your life. It is possible that during the darkest times in our lives the greatest amount of growth, self discovery and fulfillment can occur. Ms. May provides a safe and non-judgmental environment for our clientel to explore themselves and their lives. She incorporates mindfulness, journaling and art, and traditional verbal therapy. The use of mindfulness is a direct and simple technique which reduces anxiety and creates a feeling of calm, therefore making the therapy more productive and sustaining.Her work is unique in that it is multi-modal and focuses on both mind and body. In the first few sessions you will collaboratively decide which modality or combination of modalities best suits your needs. Ms. May works with all ages.

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Kelly Scimeca

is a Psychotherapist and Licensed Social Worker who has completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Adelphi University. Kelly’s academic and practice experience are rooted in trauma-informed care. Kelly has worked in multiple treatment settings including schools, non-profit organizations, hospitals and private practices. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups in multiple areas. Kelly uses a blend of Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Motivational interviewing and Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT).

Kelly is down to earth and helps clients really feel comfortable during sessions. She has a passion for working with children and particularly teens and their families, but has also had phenomenal success with millenials and beyond. She truly believes that if you put the work in success will be the result! Kelly’s mission and goal is to help clients overcomes the obstacles that are preventing them from leading fulfilling, successful and happy lives.

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Sandra Jordan, LCSW

I love working with men and women of color towards empowerment and self-love. As a heavily marginalized group, oftentimes we’re overlooked, belittled and forgotten but at the same time expected to move mountains and carry the weight of the world on our shoulders without complaint. It’s a passion of mine to help grow our community by helping individuals find their peace and contentment.

I’m a graduate of Adelphi University and have gone on to develop my skills in Mindfulness for Anxiety and Stress, CBT and additional tools to best support you.

My approach to the therapist-client relationship is to provide a safe space to explore a client’s authentic self. I encourage healthy displays of emotions. I believe it’s okay to laugh or cry – it’s okay to dream big and admit failures. I give room for you to speak your truth without fear of judgement.

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Alyssa Heavens, MFT

My name is Alyssa H, and I am a marriage and family associate therapist. As a Black therapist and first-generation Caribbean American, I aim to provide communities of color with the support that is often difficult to find and a therapeutic space that is empathetic, validating, and culturally considerate.

Growing up in a blended family birthed my passion for the success of family relationships. I support couples, parents, and families dealing with communication, parenting, trust, and boundary issues. I also provide individual support, particularly to women of color that struggle with depression, anxiety, self-esteem/confidence, and difficulties with interpersonal relationships. I utilize therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.

If you are struggling internally or within your close relationships and are looking for a compassionate and collaborative therapist, I am now offering teletherapy services at Kensho Psychotherapy Services and I look forward to working with you.

Ms. Heavens also holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University and an Advanced Post Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Long Island University.

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