Meet our team

Knowing that not one therapist can be “all things to all people” Advanced Counseling has developed a staff of Associates that are top notch experts in their respective fields. Our top priority is your care and privacy. We are not a clinic setting, rather our boutique office is designed to provide a serene and personal atmosphere for you to fully engage in the therapeutic process.

Laura E. Asner

ACSW, LMSW, LCSW-R Master Clinician

Renowned therapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. Founder of Advanced Counseling Associates. Education- Psychology, Sociology, Social Work with a Specialization in Alcohol and Substance Abuse. Post Masters studies at The School of Practical Philosophy and the Doctoral Program at Adelphi University. Regional Vice President for Atria Senior Living Group until 2005, Founder of Advanced Counseling Associates in 1997. Volunteer for Long Island Victims Bureau, Critical Incident Debriefing, Seasoned Clinician treating: anxiety, depression, long term psychiatric illness, victims of abuse, infertility, all forms of addiction, alcoholism, substance abuse, eating disorders, gambling; (OASAS- NY State Approved Evaluator for the Department of Motor Vehicle for DWI Evaluations). Bereavement, trauma resulting from car accidents and random acts of violence. Voted Who’s Who in Long Island Business in 2005.

Areas of specialization

  • Couples therapy
  • Relationship Issues
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Trauma
  • Life transitions
  • *Certified Divorce Mediation – inquire regarding rate

45 minutes - $150 | 60 minutes - $200

Schedule Appointment
Tyra

Tyra Gonzalez

LCSW Master Clinician

Tyra Gonzalez, LCSW has worked in the field of Developmental Disabilities for over 30 years. At the start of her career, Ms. Gonzalez was an Instructor in a Day Program for people with a variety of disabilities, many who were moving into the community after living most of their lives in Institutions. She ran a classroom comprised of individuals with Autism and sought to provide quality programming to the individuals in her charge. The experience of developing program plans and activities while providing hands on care gave Ms. Gonzalez exceptional insight into the behavioral, cognitive and social issues faced by people with developmental disabilities. As her career progressed, Ms. Gonzalez worked as a Program Coordinator as well Quality Assurance Specialist, and eventually became a trainer for staff who work in Group homes and Day Habilitation programs. She teaches the staff how to deal with the issues they will face on the job, and focuses on teaching the importance of developing a rapport and an understanding of the uniqueness of each individual. Ms. Gonzalez earned an MSW at the Hunter College School of Social Work in 1997. Since that time she has provided therapy and run support groups for people with developmental disabilities, and has helped parents discuss and find ways to cope with the challenges associated with caring for a person with special needs. Today, in addition to her duties as a Training Coordinator and Therapist, Ms. Gonzalez is an Adjunct Professor at SUNY Farmingdale, where she designed and teaches a course entitled “Developmental Disabilities: History and Service Provision”

Areas of specialization

  • Adolescent Specialist
  • Developmental Disabilities
  • Attention Deficits
  • Autism
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment
evelyn

Evelyn Haughwouth

LCSW-R

Evelyn earned her BA in Psychology from SUNY Stony Brook and her Master’s in Social Work from Adelphi University. She has over 25 years of experience and has worked in various settings including a residential treatment facility, community residence, and outpatient mental health clinics.Evelyn has experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She utilizes modalities such as; CBT, behavioral modification and education to help individuals manage anxiety, depression, and improve relationships.Evelyn is compassionate and strives to make her clients feel comfortable. She provides support, guidance and encouragement so her clients can lead a more rewarding and fulfilling life.

Areas of specialization

  • Adolescents
  • Cognitive Behavior Therapy
  • Behavior Modification
  • Parenting
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment
ryan

Ryan Duck

LMHC

Ryan has a master’s degree in Education with a specialization in School Counseling from Hofstra University and a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Mental Health Counseling also from Hofstra. His counseling approach is largely eclectic but based on CBT and solution focused counseling theories.Ryan has worked as a counselor since 2013 in various roles. He has experience with various types of counseling: individual, family, couples and group. He has worked for government agencies, non-profit agencies, in academic settings and in a private practice.Ryan’s general belief is that life is stressful for everyone; in NY that stress can be even higher. Therefore, counseling is a way to better manage this stress – it’s really as simple as that.Some things you’ll quickly notice about Ryan is that he is passionate, genuine, and non-judgmental. He is excited to help you live a better life!

Areas of specialization

  • Adolescents
  • Obsessive Compulsive
  • Disorder
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Relationship Issues
  • Attention Deficits

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

jennifer

Jennifer L. McDonough

LCSW-R

Jennifer McDonough is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families. Jennifer’s experience has been primarily with the elderly population beginning with her work as a volunteer at the Brooklyn Hospice and then as a community case manager providing services and linkages/referrals for services to home-bound senior citizens. After graduating from Fordham University with a Master’s in Social Work, she went on to provide psychotherapy to home-bound seniors via home visits, as well as to adults, adolescents, and children in the clinic setting. Jennifer has also provided counseling to clients learning to adjust to life in assisted living facilities. Using a combination of psycho-dynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies, Jennifer provides non-judgmental support and compassion to those feeling most alone and isolated. She coaches clients to feel more empowered and more confident to accomplish tasks and set new goals. Treatment is viewed as a collaborative process that through empathy, mutual work, and, at times some humor, clients can succeed in feeling better understood and accomplishing their goals.

Areas of specialization

  • Life Transitions
  • Parenting
  • Elder Care
  • Chronic Illness
  • Bereavement
  • Trauma
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment

Marissa Mercurio

LMSW

If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or confused in life, you have come to the right place.
Marissa Mercurio is a New York State Licensed Social Worker with her Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University. Marissa found her love for psychotherapy at a young age, actively learning techniques and language to help ease the pain of others and create a foundation of peace together. Marissa utilizes a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a strengths based approach, and mindfulness based therapy. However, one size does not fit all. Marissa treats every one of her clients with modalities that fit their personal goals. She specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar depression, school and career transitions, self-esteem, relationships, and trauma. Marissa’s primary client population consists of teens, young adults, and adults experiencing life transitions. Marissa’s goal is that you do not feel alone in this journey of self-discovery and growth. She devotes her energy towards creating a safe and open environment for her clients. With Marissa you will feel heard, validated, and motivated.

Areas of specialization

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Couple Counseling
  • Relationship Issues
  • Trauma
  • Adolescents
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Bipolar Depression
  • Life Transitions

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment
Shante Brown

Shante Brown

LMSW

Shante Brown, LMSW has worked in long term care for over 10 years. She graduated from Fordham University School of Social Service in 2013 and holds an LMSW. She has been involved in discharge planning and advocacy for elderly clients, and those with chronic illness. Experience in discharge planning provided her insight on the strength-based perspective as she helped clients and families build on their existing strengths.Ms. Brown also provided end of life counseling and advanced directive planning connecting families to community resources. She has experience with areas of spirituality and empowering others to develop a sense of purpose in life. She lives by the statement “we are all overcomers.” She offers empathy, empowerment, and a laugh when appropriate.

Areas of specialization

  • Christian Counseling 
  • Chronic Illness
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Spirituality
  • Care givers
  • Life transitions

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment

Krystyna Napolitano

MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK

Krystyna Napolitano is a Licensed Master Social Worker who obtained her Master’s from Adelphi University’s School of Social Work. She obtained her CASAC-T (Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee) in 2021. She has worked in several different settings, including inpatient substance use, rehabilitation, mobile support teams, and community-based case management. Krystyna has experience working with individuals who are in active addiction and recovery. She also works with family members of individuals who are struggling with substances. She works with individuals experiencing life transitions, anxiety, and relationship issues. Krystyna’s primary clientele consists of teenagers/young adults and adults, and she enjoys working with a diverse and inclusive population. Her treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Krystyna believes that no two clients are alike, and their treatment should be unique to their individual self. 
 

Areas of specialization

  • Areas of Specialization:
  • Addiction/Recovery
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Life Transitions
  • Relationship Issues 
Schedule Appointment
Authurine

Authrine Tucker

LMSW

Authurine, a migrant from Jamaica, WI received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Adelphi University in 2006. She received her Licensure for Social Work in 2010. With over 15 years of experience, she has worked with children/Adolescents, adults with various age ranges. She has experience working with ADHD, Learning Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Behavioral concerns (School/Home/Community), Substance Disorders and with LGBTQ + community. Authurine also has experience working with couples. She individualizes each client by utilizing a strength-based approach to work with children and families. She believes building positive relationships creates positive changes. She also utilizes a person-centered approach with the incorporation of CBT or TF-CBT, motivational interviewing and engagement techniques to build therapeutic alliances that foster change in individuals and families. Her goal is to work with clients in navigating through whatever situation or challenge they perceive while simultaneously creating a safe and open space that will lead them to their desired therapy goals. Her life’s journey is to continue to build relationships that create changes in individuals, families and communities.
 

Age Range/Speciality 

  • Age : 16+
  • Issues
  • Trauma
  • Behavioral Modification
  • Substance Disorders
  • Stress
  • LGBTQ Community
  • ADHD
  • Grief Counseling
  • Learning Disorders
  • Adjustment Disorders
  • Anger Management
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Cognitive Behavioral
  • Therapy
  • Couples Cognitive
  • Behavioral Therapy
  • Family
Schedule Appointment
rebecca

Rebecca Bailey

LMHC

Rebecca Bailey became a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor after obtaining her Master’s degree from Long Island University. She has experience working with individuals of varies ages and challenges. Rebecca is looking to provide a safe place for clients to explore their challenges and develop ways to cope. She is empathetic, patient, and looking forward to helping you.

Areas of specialization

  • Areas of Specialization
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Life Transitions

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment
john

John Curran

LMSW, CASAC

In 1998 I earned an LMSW from Adelphi University.  In 2000 I became a CASAC, Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor. My focus has been in treating a range of mental health disorders as well as in the field of addiction. After retiring from the NYC Police Department I dedicated 5 years to working in the NYPD Counseling Unit. We treated officers and their families with chemical dependency, trauma  and related disorders related to active duty as well as 911- PTSD. I also have significant experience inTreating mood disorders, dual diagnosis and psychosis.  In addition to utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR- (Eye Movement, Desensitization, and Reprocessing) I incorporate the 12 Step Recovery Process into an empathic approach for healing and understanding.  As a Primary Counselor and later as a Clinical Director at Veritas Villa I worked with clients who suffered loss, grief, depression and anxiety.
 

Areas of specialization

  • Addiction
  • PTSD Trauma – EMDR
  • Dual Diagnosis
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Grief

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment
luann

Luann Mongiello Esen

MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK - LCSW

In 1992 I became a LPN, Licensed Practical Nurse with a Bachelor’s degree in human behavior. In 1995 I earned a MSW, Master Social Work Degree from Adelphi University. From 1996 to 1999, with a passion for advanced clinical knowledge I attended Pederson Krag Institute for Psychoanalysis and earned a 3 year post master certificate. With 28 years of Clinical Practice in addition to my nursing experience, I have dedicated my life to working with individuals who have struggled with depression, anxiety, thought disorders, and addiction with a diverse population.  I have a passion for psychoanalysis and have focused on Object Relations and Cognitive Behavioral approaches geared toward promoting stable mental health. I enjoy working with all populations as well as couples.  

 

Areas of specialization

  • Depression – Object Relations
  • Anxiety – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Couples Counseling
  • Mood Disorders
  • Thought Disorders
  • Bereavement

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment
Ivonne Tovar, LMSW

Ivonne Tovar

LMSW

Ivonne Tovar LMSW, earned her Bachelor’s in Social Work and Masters in Social Work from Long Island University. Ivonne has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, through adulthood. Specializing in bereavement, anxiety, caregivers fatigue, terminal illness and geriatrics, Ivonne is able to work with a vast variety of populations. Additionally, Ivonne is bi-cultural and fluent in both English and Spanish. This allows for a cultural diverse approach to psychotherapy when appropriate. With over 10 years of experience in the education system, Ivonne is also available to assist families in advocating and navigating special education curriculum and systems, bridging the gaps between school and home for continued support to the child.

Areas of specialization

  • Children
  • Adolescent
  • Anxiety
  • Elder care
  • Chronic illness
  • Bereavement
  • Anxiety
  • Life transitions
Schedule Appointment

Kaylyn Wilson

MHC-lp

Kaylyn graduated from SUNY Oswego in 2022 with her Bachelors in Criminal Justice and Minors in Forensic Science and Psychology. From there, she went on to get her Masters at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. In 2024, Kaylyn graduated with her Masters in Forensic Mental Health Counseling complemented by extensive training in child psychology, forensic psychology and family counseling. She is certified in victimology, underscoring her expertise and dedication to professional growth. She is currently working towards receiving her license in Mental Health Counseling. Kaylyn is a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health Counselor with a profound commitment to fostering mental wellness across all age groups. Kaylyn has developed a specialized focus on working with children and adolescents, providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for young clients to explore their emotions and develop coping skills. With a client-centered approach, Kaylyn integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy and Mindfulness Techniques, etc. Her therapeutic style is empathetic and adaptive, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that every child feels heard, understood, and valued. She uses play therapy as a way to get the child to engage At the core of Kaylyn’s practice is the belief that every child deserves a supportive and understanding space to navigate their mental health journey ensuring all children know they are not alone. Her dedication to empowering young minds and fostering a sense of self-worth and resilience is evident in every session, making a lasting positive impact on the lives of her clients Kaylyn has experience running groups for children/adolescents of divorce and for children who group up experiencing domestic violence.

Areas of specialization

  • Relationships
  • Family-Dynamics
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
Schedule Appointment
Sean Sweeney LMSW

Sean Sweeney

LMSW

Sean Sweeney LMSW is a SUNY Stony Brook Alumni who earned his BS in Psychology and then attended Stony Brook’s School of Social Welfare to attain his Master’s of Social Work. Through his Maters experience, Sean has worked with a wide variety of clientele from Suffolk Independent Living Organization (SILO), and Little Flower Children and Family Services (LF). During his time at SILO Sean worked as an advocate for individuals with disabilities. He was assigned to the peer integrations program to work with clients to psycho-educate and coordinate services along with address needs that were not being met. Sean also assisted in support groups and short-term counseling to further address the clientele’s needs. While at LF, Sean worked in the Residential Treatment program with children from both LF’s Inner Lights program, which worked with children with developmental disabilities combined with behavioral issues, and with the general resident population placed at Little Flower for a variety of needs from local school districts. Outside of his professional history, Sean earned the rank of Eagle Scout from the Boy Scouts of America and is an emergency responder as a volunteer firefighter.

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Rachel Bergenstock

MHC-lp

Rachel Bergenstock is a mental health counselor, working toward her LMHC. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology from Hofstra University and her Master’s in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She is dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome emotional and behavioral challenges while providing practical, evidence-based strategies to alleviate distress and improve daily life. She has experience working with children, helping them manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral concerns while equipping parents with tools to support their child’s growth and well-being. Her approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each client’s unique needs. Whether your child is struggling with emotional regulation, social difficulties, or school-related stress, or you’re facing personal challenges yourself, she provides a safe and supportive space to foster healing and resilience. Taking the step to seek therapy is a courageous decision. Together, we can create a path toward healing, clarity, and meaningful change.

Areas of specialization

  • Relationships
  • Family-Dynamics
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
Schedule Appointment
Annie Loretz

Annie Loretz

LMSW

Annie earned her BA in Psychology from Marist College and her Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University. She has experience working within outpatient substance use and mental health facilities as well as with adolescent mental health. Annie utilizes evidence-based approaches to support her clients in achieving lasting change, fostering resilience, and improving overall well-being. Compassionate and client-centered, Annie strives to help individuals build healthier relationships and lead more fulfilling lives.

Areas of specialization

  • Adolescent Mental Health 
  • Academic/ Emotional/ Social Resilience 
  • Evidence Based Problem Solving 
  • Behavioral Intervention 
Schedule Appointment

Tania Barrezueta

MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK - LCSW

Tania Barrezueta is a bilingual  New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree from Adelphi University (1997). She has over 25 years of experience working with several types of adult populations in various settings such as hospitals, clinics  and also provided in-home services throughout Long Island.  Tania is a compassionate social worker committed to assisting clients in developing healthier, more positive lifestyles.

Areas of specialization

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Mood Disorders
  • Elder Care
  • Caregivers
  • Anger & Stress
Schedule Appointment
casey

Casey Burns

MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK - LMSW

Casey Burns is a New York State LMSW, and a New York State certified School Social Worker. She received her bachelor’s degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and her masters degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University. Casey is also a Registered Yoga Teacher, educated at the Long Island Yoga School. Casey has worked with multiple school districts on Long Island, with experience ranging from grades 3rd – 12th grade. While working with High School students, she served as part of a Truancy Team working with school administration and Suffolk County Court systems to create Persons In Need of Supervision (PINS) diversion plans for students with excessive abcenses, focused on ensuring all students graduate on time. Casey also has experience working with adolescents and young adults with eating disorders, victims of physical and sexual abuse, youth exposed to domestic violence, and gang affiliated teens or family of gang members. Casey is committed to empowering and helping individuals of all ages reach their goals while providing a safe space for their voice to be heard. 

Areas of specialization

  • OCD
  • Depression
  • Trauma
  • Eating Disorder
Schedule Appointment
val

Valerie Chamberlain

LCSW

Valerie Chamberlain is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her masters’ degree from Fordham University. She has over 20 years’ experience as a social worker and clinician working in a variety of settings including a large non-profit administering programs to assist homeless and at -risk households, outpatient clinics and in private practice settings. She has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment problems, relational issues, history of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and anger and stress management issues. Valerie utilizes a variety of techniques and skills from different therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution focused Therapy, Psycho-educational Therapy and Behavioral Modification. She creates an individualized and tailored approach depending on the presenting issues and needs of the individual seeking treatment. As a clinician, Valerie is warm, open and encouraging. She implements a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to treatment which enables clients to feel safe disclosing sensitive and delicate information. Valerie utilizing a strength’s-based perspective and believes in a client’s right to self-determination. She is focused on meeting people where they are at and helping them build on their already existing strengths. Valerie is committed to helping people reach their goals and access their fullest potential for well-being.

Areas of specialization

  • Depression
  • Anxiety disordersPost-
  • traumatic stress disorder
  • Adjustment problems
  • Relational issues
  • History of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse
  • Anger and stress
  • Management issues

45 minutes - $75 | 60 minutes - $100

Schedule Appointment
Schedule Appointment