Mental health Counseling
347-421-8024
Info@alifatherapy.com
Alif Ahmed, MS, LCSW
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.
Areas of Services
Specialties
Anxiety
.
Relationship Issues
.
depression
.
Treatment Approach
Types of Therapy
Individual Counseling
Couples
Counseling
Family
Counseling
Group
Counseling
Our Therapist
meet our team
Omar Kazi, M.A, M.Ed, LMHC
- actively seeking client
(917) 528-5030
omar922@gmail.com
Language: English, Bangla, Hindi-Urdu
Omar Kazi, our senior-most psychologist, is an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Columbia University. Boasting 20 years of specialized expertise in assisting immigrant populations through the challenges of acculturation and racial trauma, he has made notable contributions to mental health and community welfare. An immigrant from Bangladesh and a former Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, Mr. Kazi presently serves as the program director at TCCNY’s Jamaica Family Wellness Center, where his focus lies in bolstering underserved communities.
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 dedicated to supporting unauthorized immigrants, refugees, and asylees. With a Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University and engaged in PhD studies at NYU, his work critically examines the nexus of health and immigration policies. As an active member of the Society for Asylum Medicine and a practitioner involved in immigration psychological evaluations, Alif employs evidence-based strategies to foster health equity. His clinical practice includes providing psychotherapy to individuals grappling with immigration issues, while his policy work aims to improve access to mental health services. This blend of academic rigor and practical application highlights Alif’s commitment to advocating for policy changes that benefit New York’s diverse immigrant community, positioning him as a key figure in both legal and social spheres.
Taslima Choudhy, LMHC
- Not actively seeking client
(917) 579-0359
talkingwithtas@gmail.com
Language: English, Bangla, Hindi-Urdu
Taslima is a South Asian therapist who stands out as an expert in child and adolescent psychotherapy, with a strong focus on relational dynamics, couple’s therapy, and multi-generational trauma. Her unique educational background combines clinical proficiency with a policy perspective, granting her insightful knowledge into how multiple systemic factors interlink to continue the cycle of trauma and mental disorders. In her practice, Taslima places great importance on the personal narratives of her young clients and the systems they are part of, fully recognizing the substantial impact these have on the mental health of children and adolescents.
Sonia Lasmin, MA. MHC-LP
- actively seeking client
(201) 468-0335
sonialasmin@gmail.com
Language: English, Bangla, Hindi-Urdu
Sonia Lasmin, though the newest member of our psychotherapy team, brings a depth of life experience that enriches her professional role. As a mother, she possesses a profound understanding of the complexities and demands of parenting, an insight that proves invaluable when addressing familial and developmental challenges within her practice. Sonia’s empathetic and trust-based approach creates a therapeutic space that is both nurturing and non-judgmental, allowing clients to feel secure and understood. Her application of evidence-based and culturally sensitive methodologies ensures that each client’s unique situation is addressed with care and competence. Sonia’s background in individual and group therapy, especially in tackling mental illness and substance abuse, is further bolstered by her linguistic skills in English, Bangla, and Hindi, facilitating a deeper connection with a diverse clientele. Her dual role as a mother and therapist endows her with a special empathy and real-world perspective that is a significant asset to both her clients and the team.
Ellen Chen, LMSW
- actively seeking client
(973) 544-8499
Talkwithellenchen@gmail.com
Language: English, Mandarin
I moved to New York City from Shanghai in 2016. I understand the experiences of adjusting to a new city, country, and culture. I also understand the challenges of being an international student, working professional, and most importantly an individual. Being raised in China, I have a clear understanding of how culture plays a role in my client’s mental health struggles. I believe those struggles that prevent them from advancing smoothly in life, are like knots in a string. My job is to help them untie that knot. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, genuine, and authentic. I enjoy working with high-functioning young adults and adults. I specialize in issues surrounding perfectionism, identity, guilt, relationship, friendship, family, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues. I can offer therapy in both English and Mandarin.
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 exploration and growth. With a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, he blends theology, spirituality, and non-western modalities like mindfulness meditation. Ryan integrates spirituality and personal philosophies in wellness practices. Passionate about social justice, he advocates for marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA individuals, striving to dismantle systemic barriers and create inclusive environments. Ryan believes in the dignity and worth of every person and is dedicated to fostering healing, liberation, and love for all, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.
Taspia Karim, BA
- actively seeking client
(225) 323-8406 movementwithtaspia@gmail.com
Language: English and Bangla
Taspia Karim, also known as Tia, is a visionary movement artist and artistic director, renowned for her innovative approach to creative healing through movement. Armed with a Bachelor’s in Architecture from Louisiana State University, she seamlessly integrates her design expertise with the fluidity of dance, constantly pushing boundaries to address contemporary societal issues. From her origins as a contemporary dancer to embracing diverse styles like Hip-Hop and Afro, Tia’s journey is a testament to her transformative power. With an unwavering commitment to personal growth, she champions the path of self-awareness and truth, catalyzing profound healing experiences for herself and those she guides.
Shifti Kamal, LMSW
- actively seeking client
(646) 504-4138
shifti.kamal20@gmail.com
Language: English, Bangla, Hindi-Urdu
Shifti is an exceptional South Asian therapist, renowned for her unparalleled expertise in connecting the individual and systemic aspects of care, positioning her as the premier organizational link within her team. With a Master of Social Work from Columbia University, she possesses a unique blend of clinical wisdom and policy knowledge. This rich educational foundation equips her to adeptly navigate the intricate relationship between personal experiences and broader systemic influences, which are crucial in the perpetuation of trauma and mental health disorders. In her practice, Shifti expertly merges individual narratives with wider societal frameworks, making her an invaluable member of her team and a vital support to her clients for her insightful understanding of the profound connections that affect mental well-being.
Q Hailey
- actively seeking client
917-780-2891
talkwithqh@gmail.com
Language: English
Hello, I’m Q Hailey, an experienced psychotherapist and hospital chaplain dedicated to supporting LGBTQ individuals through the intersections of mental health, trauma, and religious trauma. With over 15 years in the mental health and hospital contexts, I’ve worked extensively as both a peer specialist and a professional, fostering a deep understanding of the challenges faced by this community, elders, and those whose lives have been wrecked by a sudden trauma.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in trauma-informed care, placing a strong emphasis on building a trusting therapeutic alliance through genuine relationships and connections. I provide a safe and affirming space where clients can explore their experiences openly and without judgment. Whether you’re grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating your identity, I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery.
Onleilove Chika Alston, MDiv, MSW
- actively seeking client
(201) 616-0538
talkwithOnleilove@gmail.com
Language: English
Onleilove Chika Alston, MDiv, MSW, brings a profound blend of spirituality and social work expertise rooted in over 17 years of nonprofit leadership and community organizing across diverse urban landscapes, including NYC, DC, Baltimore, and West Africa. Currently the Social Worker for Neighborhood Initiative’s Development Corporation’s Family Support Network she also serves as Adjunct Assistant Professor of Social Work at Columbia School of Social Work. A scholar at heart, she is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry focusing on Global Leadership and Institutional Reform at Virginia Union University’s Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology. Her impactful journey, chronicled in her book “Prophetic Whirlwind,” delves into communal healing and justice via the untold stories of African Jews, reflecting her commitment to faith-based advocacy and intersectional equity. Her specialties are in healing from religious, spiritual, or cult-related trauma, Childhood/Complex PTSD, historical trauma, and immigrant and refugee services and issues, with a special focus on women and African immigrants. Onleilove Chika was born in East New York, Brooklyn, and has lived in West Africa.
Priya Doshi
- actively seeking client
347-468-2825
talkwithdoshi@gmail.com
Language: English
Sometimes asking for help can be difficult or may feel second nature to you. You might wonder, “What can change look like, and where should I start.” Let me tell you about yourself that change starts with you, a thought, a recognition that you want more for yourself and can achieve by taking the first step with psychotherapy.
I believe my 10 years of experience has given me the strength and compassion to work with adults and elderly people. I have worked with clients with chronic medical diagnosis including adults discharged from nursing homes into the community. My clients were provided with emotional support and resources to readjust in the home and community.
I provide care coordination and resources to my clients along with supportive psychotherapy, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQ, CBT. My specialty is clients who have medical diagnosis, aging, caretakers, South Asian Experience, struggling with adapting to new stages of life or transitions of life.
Aneesha, Volunteer licensed therapist
- actively seeking client
845-481-0020
talkwithaneesha@gmail.com
Language: English, Hindi-Urdu
Aneesha is a trauma-informed and highly competent South Asian clinician with a strong academic background. She is fluent in English, Hindi, and Urdu. She takes into account the cultural nuances while integrating psychodynamic, mindfulness, CBT, and DBT therapeutic approaches. With extensive experience working with survivors of intimate partner violence and disenfranchised communities, including South Asian and BIPOC immigrants, children of immigrants, and women she helps clients address unresolved feelings, identify hindering behaviors, challenge feelings of stagnation, and transform their relationships with themselves and others. Aneesha treats conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and relationship issues while offering compassion, structure, and balance throughout therapy.
Insurance & Payment
Out-of-Pocket
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
Immigration Expert Witness
An expert witness in immigration court is an individual with specialized knowledge or expertise in a particular area, often related to country-specific conditions, human rights issues, or other factors pertinent to asylum claims. These experts can include academics, country specialists, human rights advocates, or others with deep understanding of the socio-political dynamics of the asylum seeker’s homeland. They provide critical insights through testimony or detailed reports, helping judges understand complex issues such as political persecution, gender-based violence, or ethnic conflicts. Their input can be vital in substantiating an asylum seeker’s claim, clarifying the risks they face, and informing the court’s decision-making process.
What Are the Admissibility Criteria for an Expert Witness?
The admissibility of expert witness testimony is determined by several factors:
- The ability to test the technique or theory in question
- Whether it has undergone peer review
- The known or potential error rate
- Maintenance of standards controlling its operation
- Acceptance within the relevant scientific community
Who conducts the evaluations?
Alif Ahmed, MS, LCSW, is a second-year PhD student at the NYU Silver School of Social Work and a dedicated psychotherapist specializing in the effects of immigration policies on the mental well-being of unauthorized immigrants, refugees, and asylees. He holds an MSW from Columbia University and a BS in Applied Psychology from NYU. Currently, he evaluates child development programs in crisis zones as a Graduate Researcher at NYU Global TIES and previously worked as a Behavioral Health Specialist with ThriveNYC to enhance mental health services. In his private practice, Capacity Sharing LCSW PLLC, Alif provides counseling and psychological evaluations for various legal cases, including VAWA, hardship waivers, and asylum. Active in community advocacy, he is also a member of the Society for Asylum Medicine and the Physicians for Human Rights Asylum Network, striving to bridge academic research with practical interventions to support marginalized populations.
What Is the Difference Between Testifying and Consulting as an Expert Witness?
Expert witnesses may serve as either testifying or non-testifying consultants. Testifying experts provide evidence in court, while non-testifying experts offer advice and support during the pre-trial phase without appearing in court.
How Do Expert Witnesses Assist in Asylum Cases?
Expert witnesses play a critical role in asylum proceedings by providing key testimony that can significantly influence the outcome, such as securing asylum instead of facing deportation to potentially dangerous situations.
How Do Expert Witnesses Contribute in VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) Cases?
Expert witnesses in IPV (Intimate Partner Violence) cases may provide testimony, assist with trial strategies, prepare survivors for trial, or help with jury selection, often addressing complex dynamics like power and control within abusive relationships.
What Role Do Expert Witnesses Play in U-Visa Cases?
Psychologists serving as expert witnesses in U-Visa cases provide detailed psychological evaluations to demonstrate the mental and emotional impact of crimes on victims, offering compelling narratives that enhance the strength of the visa application.
What Does the Process Look Like?
The process of involving an expert witness in legal proceedings starts with the lawyer identifying and engaging an expert suited to the case’s needs. At least two weeks before the court date, the expert witness and the lawyer conduct a one-hour preparation interview to delve into case specifics and the expert’s contribution. Following this session, ongoing communication is maintained to refine the testimony and address any new developments. The expert also undertakes a thorough review of all pertinent case documents and materials to form a well-informed opinion. A final review is often conducted just before the court appearance to finalize the testimony and strategize for potential cross-examination questions. On the court date, the expert delivers their testimony, followed by a post-court debrief to discuss outcomes and any further necessary actions. This structured approach ensures that the expert witness is thoroughly prepared and their insights are seamlessly integrated into the case strategy.
What is the cost?
For a 1-2 hour expert witness court appearance, including the one-hour preparatory review as detailed in our process, we use a simplified sliding scale payment system. This system ensures affordability and transparency, with fees adjusted based on annual income. Here’s how it breaks down:
- For annual incomes under $75,000, the fee is $1,500.
- For annual incomes of $75,000 or more, the fee is $2,000.
This fee structure covers all necessary preparation and the expert’s court appearance, making it straightforward for our clients.
Can I pay in installments?
To make our services more accessible, we offer the option to pay in installments. The first half of the payment is due on the day of the initial preparation interview, and the remaining balance can be paid in installments. This structure ensures affordability while maintaining transparency in our pricing.
What languages do you speak?
English, Bengali, Spanish, French/Creole, Mandarin and Hindi-Urdu.
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
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
Our Partners
Linking Diet, Obesity, and Mental Health
Diet and obesity can influence mood either directly or through stress-related mental disorders, which may alter eating habits and affect weight, while common factors like stress or predisposition can contribute to both obesity and mental disorders such as depression and PTSD.
Psychiatric Services
Munibur Rahman, MD
Phone: 917-402-6342
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
Membership
Sexual Assault Support
855-234-1042
Queens Family Justice Center
718-575-4545
Domestic Violence Victim Advocate
718-533-2034, 718-626-2007
Manhattan Restitution
212-577-1268
The National Suicide Prevention
1-800-273-8255
NYC WELL
1-888-NYC-WELL