Mental health Counseling
315 Fifth Avenue, Room 701, New York, NY 10016
Licensed in California, New Jersey, New York & Texas
Info@alifatherapy.com
347-421-8024
About us
Our psychotherapy practice offers compassionate mental health care, focusing on individual experiences and the broader societal influences that shape them. We emphasize a therapeutic alliance to help clients learn from past experiences, gain awareness of the present, and foster a safer future. Specializing in anxiety, relationship issues, and depression, we offer individual, couples, family, and group counseling, adapting our approach to meet each client’s unique needs. We believe healing begins with being heard and accepted in a non-reciprocal, nurturing space. Our therapists provide support against the overwhelming cacophony of urban life and personal challenges, helping clients navigate their mental health journey.
At our psychotherapy practice, we understand that everyone’s path is filled with unique challenges. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and its impact profound on how we view ourselves and interact with others. Our approach is rooted in empathy and respect for your individual journey, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. We believe that healing starts with feeling heard and accepted. Our therapists are here to support you, providing a safe and nurturing space where you can express yourself without judgment. We aim to help you learn from the past, become more aware of the present, and build a positive future. Our services cater to individuals, couples, families, and groups, ensuring that everyone can find the support they need. With flexible payment options and acceptance of various insurance plans, we strive to make our services accessible to all.
Specialties
Anxiety
.
Relationship Issues
.
depression
.
Individual Counseling
Couples
Counseling
Group
Counseling
Types of Therapy
New Services
Bariatric Evaluation
What: Mental health, eating habits, and lifestyle assessment for weight-loss surgery. Required by surgeons and insurance.
When & Cost: 1-3 sessions (50-75 min). $500-$1,000. Insurance coverage varies.
Emotional Support
What: Legally valid Emotional Support Animal letters for housing and travel. Assessment by LCSW using PHQ-9 & GAD-7.
When & Cost: 1-2 sessions (50-60 min). $150-$300. Insurance coverage varies.
ADOS Autism
What: Evaluation for autism using ADOS-2, developmental history, and behavioral observations.
When & Cost: 2-3 sessions (60-90 min). $800-$1,200, includes diagnostic report. Insurance coverage varies.
TOD Dyslexia
What: Identifies dyslexia and learning challenges using CTOPP, Woodcock-Johnson IV, and behavioral observations.
When & Cost: 2-3 sessions (60-90 min). $800-$1,200, includes diagnostic report. Insurance coverage varies.
Our Therapist
Omar Kazi, M.A, M.Ed, LMHC
- actively seeking client
(917) 528-5030
omar922@gmail.com
Language: English and Bangla
Alif Ahmed, M.S, LCSW
- actively seeking client
(347)-421-8024
info@alifatherapy.com
Language: English, Bangla, Hindi-Urdu and American Sign Language
Alif is a legal and social policy scholar focused on immigration and mental health. A PhD student at NYU with a Master’s from Columbia, he bridges health and immigration policy. As a member of the Society for Asylum Medicine, he conducts psychological evaluations and provides psychotherapy for individuals facing immigration challenges.
Taslima Choudhy, LMHC
- Not actively seeking client
(917) 579-0359
talkingwithtas@gmail.com
Language: English, Bangla, Hindi-Urdu
Taslima is a South Asian therapist specializing in child and adolescent psychotherapy, with expertise in relational dynamics, couple’s therapy, and multi-generational trauma. Her background blends clinical skills with a policy perspective, offering deep insights into systemic factors that perpetuate trauma. Taslima emphasizes personal narratives and the systems influencing young clients’ mental health.
Ellen Chen, LMSW
- actively seeking client
(973) 544-8499
talkwithellenchen@gmail.com
Language: English and Mandarin
I moved to New York City from Shanghai in 2016, giving me firsthand insight into the challenges of adjusting to a new culture. My experience growing up in China helps me understand how cultural influences shape mental health. I see struggles as knots to be untangled with warmth, empathy, and genuineness. I specialize in working with young adults on issues like perfectionism, identity, self-esteem, anxiety, and relationships, offering therapy in both English and Mandarin.
Sonia Lasmin, MA. MHC-LP
- actively seeking client
(201) 468-0335
sonialasmin@gmail.com
Language: English, Bangla and Hindi-Urdu
Sonia Lasmin, the newest member of our psychotherapy team, brings valuable life experience and a deep understanding of parenting challenges. Her empathetic, non-judgmental approach fosters a safe space for clients. Skilled in individual and group therapy, she specializes in mental illness and substance abuse, using evidence-based, culturally sensitive methods. Fluent in English, Bangla, and Hindi, Sonia connects with diverse clients, combining professional expertise with real-world empathy.
Ryan Hill, MDiv
- actively seeking client
(646) 883-8472
talkwithryanh@gmail.com
Language: English
Ryan Hill, a healing circle facilitator, creates safe spaces for personal growth by blending theology, spirituality, and mindfulness. With a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, he is passionate about social justice and advocates for marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA individuals. Ryan is committed to fostering healing, liberation, and love for all, embracing the dignity of every person.
Sha-King Graham, MSW
- actively seeking client
(347) 362-0459
shagraham81
@gmail.com
Language: English
Sha-King Graham is a dedicated professional with a strong background in community organization and human services. He began his career advocating for social justice and supporting first-time felons with essential resources. Over the past decade, he has excelled as a care coordinator and case manager supervisor. Currently, under the Ryan White Short-term Housing contract, he helps clients transition to independent living. Pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, expected in Spring 2025, Sha-King remains committed to making a lasting impact.
Q Hailey, LMSW
- actively seeking client
917-780-2891
talkwithqh@gmail.com
Language: English
I’m Q Hailey, a seasoned psychotherapist and hospital chaplain dedicated to supporting LGBTQ individuals facing mental health and religious trauma. With over 15 years of experience, I understand the unique challenges of this community, including elders and those affected by sudden trauma. My trauma-informed approach fosters trust and connection, providing a safe, judgment-free space to explore anxiety, depression, and identity issues. I’m here to support your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Manashi Hazra, MSW
- actively seeking client
646-535-5147
talkwithmanashihazra@
gmail.com
Language: English,Bangla
Manashi Hazra, a mental health professional, brings deep cultural insight from her journey from Bangladesh to NYC in 2010. With a Master of Social Work from the Silberman School of Social Work, she is known for her empathetic, client-centered approach. Manashi specializes in culturally competent care, helping clients navigate work-life balance, relationships, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention. She fosters a safe space for exploration and believes that embracing new experiences leads to personal growth and better choices for the future.
Onleilove Chika Alston, MDiv, MSW
- actively seeking client
(201) 616-0538
talkwithOnleilove
@gmail.com
Language: English
Onleilove Chika Alston, MDiv, MSW, combines over 17 years of nonprofit leadership with community organizing in NYC, DC, Baltimore, and West Africa. Currently the Social Worker for Neighborhood Initiative’s Family Support Network, she also teaches at Columbia School of Social Work. Pursuing a Doctor of Ministry at Virginia Union University, her book “Prophetic Whirlwind” explores communal healing and justice. She specializes in healing from trauma, particularly for women and African immigrants. Born in East New York, Brooklyn, Onleilove is dedicated to faith-based advocacy and intersectional equity.
Lotus Ahmed MD, FACP
- actively seeking client
(914) 306-5943
talkwithlotus@
gmail.com
Language: English, Bangla and Hindi-Urdu
Dr. Lotus Ahmed, MD, FACP, is a board-certified internist dedicated to mental health and culturally sensitive care. With extensive experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, she emphasizes the connection between physical and mental well-being. Dr. Ahmed supports immigrants with health challenges, including N-648 medical disability waivers for naturalization. She provides compassionate, individualized care for trauma, anxiety, and chronic conditions, fostering holistic and ethical healthcare to empower patients in their medical and emotional well-being.
Nadia Reedwan, MA
- actively seeking client
(347) 362-0459
talkwithnadia25@
gmail.com
Language: English
Nadia Reedwan, MA, is an art therapist who harnesses creativity to promote healing, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. With experience working with adults and children, she specializes in using expressive arts therapy to address depression, anxiety, and stress. Nadia’s approach blends mindfulness and positive energy, empowering clients through self-expression. Fluent in English, Bangla, Urdu, and Hindi, she provides a culturally sensitive space that fosters healing and personal growth. Nadia believes in the transformative power of art to inspire resilience and emotional balance.
Veera Mookerjee, Ph.D., LMSW, SIFI
- actively seeking client
(914)-348-1313
talkwithveera@gmail.com
Language: English
Veera Mookerjee, Ph.D., LMSW, SIFI is a mental health therapist specializing in working with parents and caregivers of neurodiverse individuals. She offers psychotherapy across all age groups, focusing on children and caregivers. A Yeshiva University graduate, her doctoral research explored Autism transition challenges. Veera, fluent in Bengali, Hindi, Urdu, and English, advocates for underserved communities. She leads training at Anthem BlueCross BlueShield and directs Resolveera, a consultancy offering CEU workshops for social workers.
Priya Doshi, LMSW
- actively seeking client
347-468-2825
talkwithdoshi@gmail.com
Language: English, Hindi-Urdu and Gujrati
Asking for help can be challenging, but change begins with you—a desire for more, starting with psychotherapy. With 10 years of experience, I support adults and the elderly, including those transitioning from nursing homes to community living. I offer emotional support and resources for readjustment. My services include care coordination and supportive psychotherapy for PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, family conflict, grief, and LGBTQ issues. I specialize in clients with medical diagnoses, aging, caretakers, and those navigating life transitions, particularly within the South Asian experience.
Insurance & Payment
Cash Payments
Our payment structure operates on a sliding scale to ensure affordability based on annual income.
For those earning under $45,000 a year, the minimum payment is $90.
At the higher end, individuals with an income of $100,000 a year are expected to pay $220.
For someone in the middle, such as with an annual income of $75,000, the estimated payment would be appropriately adjusted within this scale to reflect their income level, ensuring fairness and accessibility for all our clients.
Insurance
Medicaid
- Healthfirst
- MetroPlus
- Fidelis
Commercial
- United Health Care,
- Optum
- GEHA
- Oscar
- Harvard Pilgrim
- Oxford
- UMR
- UHC Golden Rule
- All Savers, Health Plan Inc. (Harvard Pilgrim)
- Cigna
- Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
- Aetna
- Anthem
group therapy schedule
Time
Tuesday
Saturday
SUnday
1-2 pm
Saturday( Jackson Heights)
X
Survivors Women's Group
(Jackson Heights)
X
2-3 pm
Saturday( Jackson Heights)
X
Parenting Skills Women's Group
(Jackson Heights)
X
3-4 pm
Saturday( Jackson Heights)
X
Batterers Women's Group
(Jackson Heights)
X
6-7 pm
men’s support group
X
women’s support group
7-8 pm
Survivors Women's Group
X
women’s movement therapy group
* Jackson Heights Office: 37-07 74th Street, Suite 8, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
* Manhattan Office: 315 5th Ave office Manhattan
Referrals
Queens Family Justice Center
718-575-4545
Domestic Violence Victim Advocate
718-533-2034, 718-626-2007
Sexual Assault Support
855-234-1042
Manhattan Restitution
212-577-1268
The National Suicide Prevention
1-800-273-8255
NYC WELL
1-888-NYC-WELL
Resource Guides
Munibur Rahman, MD Psychiatric Services
Jackson Heights:
37-28 77th St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372. Wednesday: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Jamaica:
170-12 Highland Ave, Jamaica, NY 11432. Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Diet, Obesity & Mental Health
Diet and obesity affect mood, with stress linking them to disorders like depression and PTSD.
Membership
Proud member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, supporting business growth and community engagement in New York.
Office Locations
Manhattan (Midtown): 315 Fifth Avenue, Room 701, New York, NY 10016
Queens (Jackson Heights): 37-07 74th Street, Suite 8, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Bronx (Castle Hill): 920 Castle Hill Avenue, Bronx, NY 10472