Meet the Team

My mission is to provide a non-judgement safe haven for my patients. My goal as a psychotherapist is to help others reach their full potential or to simply be a listening ear when needed. My therapeutic experience includes all ages and populations, ranging from children, teenagers, young adults, adults, couples, and the elderly. I am LGBTQ-friendly as well. 

I graduated from Lehman College, majoring in Sociology with a minor in Early Childhood. Early in my career, I worked as a substitute teacher, but my passion was not fulfilled in a system where educational expectations trumped true growth as an individual. I had to figure out a way to help others in a way where I felt I could truly make a lifelong difference in a way that I saw fit. Social Work has provided me this outlet to do so, which led me to obtain my Master’s in Social Work from Touro College. Currently, I work full time as a psychotherapist with high-risk populations in a community-based setting. I am also an Early Intervention ABA (Applied Behavior Analyst) therapist. My therapeutic skills include play therapy; CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy); Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy; Person-Centered Therapy; Motivational Interviewing; Strength-Based Therapy and Humanistic Approached therapy.

As the great Angela Davis stated, "I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change, I'm changing the things I cannot accept."

I know that change is not easy. However, what is the alternative?! I believe that there are times when we find ourselves lost or motivated to move past our challenges. Moreover, I am passionate about helping people bridge the gap between the past and future self.

As a licensed social worker, I present with an educational background in receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree with Psychology concentration, Cum Laude, from St John's University and a Master of Social Work Degree from Fordham University. In addition to my scholarly experience, I utilize a holistic approach to help my clients achieve optimal mental wellness. My focus is a person-centered approach through the application of psychodynamic techniques which include but are not limited to acute-trauma based intervention, cognitive-behavioral intervention, motivational interviewing, and relational therapy.

Within my career, I have also received certifications in SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment ) that is primarily targeted to substance-dependent patients, preventing and managing crisis intervention, grief counseling, and child abuse and maltreatment mandated reporting.

With that said, I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families of various backgrounds. Overall, my office will provide a safe haven through trust, empathy, and active listening to help you get to the next step. I look forward to working with you.

There is a saying that states “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” I stand behind this statement as part of my work as a trauma-informed, strength-based clinician.

After three years of providing mental health services to homeless families in shelters, I saw first-hand how the effects of self-sabotaging and unhealed childhood trauma can have on an individual’s ability to thrive. I truly believe that prioritizing both self-care and self-love can have an everlasting positive impact on your journey towards healing. Let’s work together to build a wholesome life that fills your cup in a way that’s meaningful for you and helps you heal from the trauma that has held you back from fully experiencing the life you deserve. 

I graduated from Touro College with a Master’s in Social Work in 2017 and went on to become a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in 2018. I am here to provide an environment where we build upon your strengths as an individual and focus on goals that will help address depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD, and end the cycle of generational trauma. I have experience working with a wide range of populations, including victims of domestic violence, LGBTQ+, children with special needs, first-time parents, immigrants, teens, the elderly, people who have a history of substance abuse, and so much more. I draw upon my knowledge of Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, and Trauma Systems Therapy. Looking forward to helping you do the work!

When times get tough, we all need someone to talk to, but why suffer in silence? When thoughts can leave deeper scarring than almost anything else – J.K. Rowling

The quote above is a motto that I reflect on and apply to my practice as a mental health therapist (MHC). There are times in life when we may feel at a loss or need help; however, we hinder ourselves because of fear, embarrassment, or being conditioned to not ask for help. When in fact, asking for help is truthfully one of the most courageous things that anyone can do.

As a psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a comfortable, culturally competent, non-judgmental, safe space for clients to express their truths and later heal from those truths. My purpose is to provide clients with helpful information and therapeutic tools to assist them on their life journey. I advocate for self-care, breaking cycles (generational as well), and wanting to help dismantle the stigma surrounding seeking mental health.

I am now honored to be embarking on this journey at Path2Growth under the supervision of Dr. Toussaint while pursuing my Doctoral degree from Capella University in Advance Studies in Human Behavior. My theoretical background includes a person-centered approach, cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based therapy, motivational interviewing, rational therapy, play/art therapy, and multicultural therapy.

I believe that my passion for clients to feel encouraged after our sessions and supported on their therapeutic journey will be a true testament to the work we will venture on together as therapists and clients. I look forward to this experience with much excitement!

“It’s only after you’ve stepped outside your comfort zone that you begin to change, grow, and transform” - Roy T. Bennett. I believe pushing yourself to do the unimaginable can allow for more doors to be open.

I grew up in a conservative, Hispanic household, where expressing feelings or emotions were not embraced but avoided. As a first-generation graduate, I wanted to break that generational stigma and trauma for my own family but also help others who are facing the same fear of being vulnerable. My goals are to help families overcome life’s most difficult challenges, be an advocate for those who can’t help themselves, and most importantly, be a trusted ally for those who need to express their truths.

Currently, I have the honor of being an elementary school social worker for students between the ages of 7 and 12. Being in a school setting has given me the experience to help children from different cultural backgrounds cope with their anger, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. I graduated from the University of Hartford where I earned my BA in Criminal Justice and Psychology. After receiving my bachelor’s, I resumed my studies at the University of New Haven where I am currently in progress for my CMHC master’s degree. I have the pleasure to work under the direct supervision of Dr. Toussaint and work with a bright team.

“Learn as if you will live forever, live like you will die tomorrow.” — Mahatma Gandhi

As a therapist, I strive to facilitate a warm environment where we can learn together and be fully present. My goal is to have you exit our sessions exhaling deeply and feeling completely supported.

I started my psychology career in my home country of Australia, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Melbourne University and a Graduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology from Deakin University. After qualifying for provisional registration as a psychologist with the Australian Psychological Society, I accrued research experience as a Research Assistant in Professor David Austin’s psychology lab at Deakin University working with mothers and children facing serious chronic health challenges.

In 2016 I relocated to New York City to pursue diverse academic, professional, research, and clinical opportunities. I attended a clinical psychology summer graduate program at Harvard University which was an incredible opportunity to collaborate with budding psychologists from all over the world. For the past three years, I have been working at a health-tech start-up that provides free audiology care for seniors around the country while simultaneously pursuing my master’s in public health at King’s College London.

I am currently entering the second year of my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Fielding Graduate University and am thrilled to be working under the direct supervision of Dr. Toussaint. I look forward to the experience of working with you!

“A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.” - Gina Milicia

Stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and making lasting changes can be a challenge. For some, it might even seem impossible at first. However, you are not alone in this process. As a counselor, my goal is to support you in your journey of self-discovery and change-making by providing you with enduring warmth, empathy, and empowerment. Moreover, I aim to create a safe, welcoming, and culturally sensitive environment for individuals of all backgrounds, including those in the LBGTQ+ community. I recognize that as the client, you are the expert in your own life. It is my hope that through our therapeutic relationship, we are able to learn from one another and work towards your goals.

In 2021, I graduated from Adelphi University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Adelphi University. In previous years, I have worked with children ages 4 to 12 years old in a before and after-school care program. This experience, coupled with previous childcare experiences, solidified my desire to provide therapy for children. Although I have a passion for working with children, I am also eager to work with individuals of all ages. Currently, I provide vocational services to neurodiverse college students. This job experience has sparked my desire to provide counseling to neurodiverse individuals, such as those with autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and other diagnoses.

I am honored to begin my counseling career at Path2Growth under the direct supervision of Dr. Samara Toussaint. As a counselor, I approach therapy from a trauma-informed perspective and draw from multiple therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, and person-centered therapy. I am honored and excited to be a part of the Path2Growth team and to work with you!

"We all wear masks, but it's the courage to take them off that truly sets us free.” -Unknown

Too often, we are forced to put on a mask, forced to hide our true selves to get through the day. Maybe, we fear, it will all fall apart if we show who we really are, what we really feel, or what we really need. Maybe, it has fallen apart in the past. Maybe, it all feels too vulnerable, too overwhelming.

But what if I told you it doesn’t have to be this way? What if I told you there is a path to not only survive but thrive while being your true self? In our sessions together, I strive to provide a place where you feel safe to be your most authentic self. I take a holistic, non-judgmental, neurodiversity-affirming approach that focuses on acceptance, understanding, and fulfillment.

Through therapy or an evaluation, we will work together to understand your strengths and needs, and how they shape your interactions with the world. Together, we’ll find ways to fulfill those needs while staying true to your values and identity. My ultimate goal is to guide and support you on your journey of self-discovery to find, understand, and embrace the person within, so you can curate a life that nourishes your most authentic self. The journey won’t always be easy, but I assure you, it's a path worth taking.

Dr. Kristan Melo is an NYS Licensed Psychologist and an NYS Certified School Psychologist. She earned Master’s and Doctoral degrees in School Psychology at St. John’s University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Creative Writing at CUNY: Hunter College. She has years of professional experience working as a psychologist in NY public schools as well as training experiences in clinical in-patient and out-patient therapy. In her role as an Adjunct Associate Professor at St. John’s University, Dr. Melo was instrumental in training future psychologists in conducting comprehensive, diagnostic psychoeducational evaluations. Currently, Dr. Melo provides counseling for a wide range of psychological and adjustment concerns as well as evaluations for learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, and mood and anxiety disorders. Her vast knowledge and expertise in the special education process and school system enrich her practice. She brings these experiences to Path2Growth to provide clients with the highest quality of care.

“Trauma creates changes you don’t choose. Healing is about creating change that you do choose. “

Growing up in a religious, structured, American Indian household. Expressing your feelings and thoughts was not encouraged. As a first generational graduate, breaking generational curses, debunking mental health stigmas, and addressing traumas within my family and community were the priority. Working in vast communities such as the military, corrections, homeless, substance abuse, and domestic violence has shown me the importance of therapy. Let’s work together to address your concerns, heal from your traumatic experiences, and help you move toward your purpose in life.

Additionally, I work as a Functional Family Therapist Clinical Supervisor, in which I enjoy helping individuals and interchangeably use skills to help all my clients. I believe therapy is most successful when a collaborative and tailored approach is used. After forming a therapeutic alliance and better understanding the individual client, I provide tools to navigate negative emotions and realize psychological growth. Drawing from a range of traditions, I work with clients to build resilience and flexibility while reducing destructive patterns of behavior. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, meditation and mindfulness, Trauma Systems Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Functional Family Therapy are some of the approaches I use to help clients gain a better understanding of their emotions, reactions, personal values, and goals.

Above all, I prioritize building a trusting and nonjudgmental relationship with my clients where they are safe to express themselves freely. I believe that acceptance and compassion provide a bedrock for psychological growth and personal wisdom to occur.

I have a master’s degree from Mercy College, a bachelor’s degree from Mercy College, and certification in CASAC. I have expertise in areas including anger management, depression, panic, anxiety, stress management, problem-solving, and trauma. Experience with various populations, victims of domestic violence, LGBTQA+, OPWDD, teens, immigrants, the elderly, individuals with substance abuse, and families.

LET THE HEALING BEGIN!

Dr. Tashagaye McKenzie (she/her) is a Postdoctoral Fellow, providing evidence-based psychotherapy and other mental health services to adults, couples, and families. She has extensive experience in evidence-based practices, helping you identify your motivation and strengths to foster a commitment to change. Dr. McKenzie has experience in the following treatment modalities: CBT, DBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, Relational, and Solution-focused treatments. She has a unique interest in supporting clients struggling with severe mental illness, complex trauma history, and substance use.

Dr. McKenzie is a dedicated and empathetic psychologist with a deep commitment to helping individuals from all walks of life thrive in their unique journeys. Whether a client is dealing with issues of racial or ethnic identity, sexual orientation, or varying socio-economic backgrounds, her treatment plans are tailored to respect and acknowledge these crucial aspects of individual identity. She understands that each person is unique. Through exploration, she brings a rich understanding of diversity and cultural factors to her clinical practices. Dr. McKenzie acknowledges the importance of individualized care that considers not just the psychological factors affecting a person, but also their cultural, ethnic, and social background. Dr. McKenzie works collaboratively to find solutions that align with the client’s values and goals.

Currently, she holds a PsyD Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of San Francisco, an APA-accredited program. Prior to earning her doctorate, she received an M.S. in Clinical Psychology from the same institution and a B.S. in Psychology from Mercy College, where she garnered psychology honors and engaged in research as a McNair Scholar.

Outside of her clinical work, Dr. McKenzie (Tasha), enjoys the arts (literature, art, and music), as a part of her wellness practices. Other wellness practices she engages in include, watching anime, cooking, traveling, shopping, star gazing, and exploring nature (oceans, rainforest, grasslands, etc.). She believes embracing nature allows for a presence of grounded and unwaveringness like no other!

"Like a seed breaking through the earth to find the sun, let your struggles be the soil from which you grow." – Unknown.