Mental health Counseling
315 Fifth Avenue, Room 701, New York, NY 10016
Licensed in California, New Jersey, New York ,Texas & Pennsylvania
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
.
Our Therapist
Omar Kazi, M.A, M.Ed, LMHC
- actively seeking client
(917) 528-5030
omar922@gmail.com
Language: English and Bangla
Omar Kazi, our senior psychotherapist, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Columbia University. With 20 years of experience, he specializes in supporting immigrants facing acculturation and racial trauma. An immigrant from Bangladesh and former Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, he now leads TCCNY’s Jamaica Family Wellness Center, focusing on 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 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 accepting clients
(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, LMHC
- Not accepting clients
(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, DO
- 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.
Raisa Ashraf, BA
- actively seeking client
(347) 687-8694
talkwithraisa2@gmail.com
Language: English
Raisa Ashraf holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and specializes in conducting psychological evaluations for immigration-related cases. In addition to her clinical work, she leads community outreach initiatives to promote mental health awareness and connect individuals with the services offered at Capacity. Raisa is committed to providing compassionate, culturally responsive care to those navigating complex emotional and legal challenges.
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.
Joel Kouame, LCSW, MBA, CAMS, ADHD-CCSP
- actively seeking client
(718) 540 7738
jkouame@jkcounseling.com
Language: French, Haitian Creole and English
I provide trauma-informed, evidence-based psychological evaluations for immigration cases, including Asylum, VAWA, U/T-Visas, and Extreme Hardship waivers. Bilingual in Haitian Creole, I deliver clinically rigorous, legally relevant reports through a virtual platform, specializing in cases involving persecution, domestic violence, and systemic trauma. I offer expedited services for urgent court deadlines and work closely with attorneys to ensure every evaluation meets the highest standards of mental health and legal practice.
Shonnet Percival, LMSW, SIFI
- actively seeking client
(631) 386-8329
talkwithshonnetpercival@
Language: English
Shonnet Percival, LMSW, SIFI is a dedicated professional. She has over 20 years of experience working in Child and Family Welfare. She is passionate about helping individuals and families. She believes in the importance of providing a safe space for others to share and creating a healthy balance in navigating life’s challenges. She possesses experience in helping individuals seek independence while in the childcare welfare system through effective and appropriate coping strategies. Her work reflects commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Ferdousi MSW
- actively seeking client
(716)-222-3799
talkwithferdousi@gmail.com
Language: English and Bangla
Ferdousi is a seasoned behavioral and mental health professional with over two decades of experience. Holding a Master of Social Work, she specializes in marriage and family therapy, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, and domestic violence intervention. Her expertise includes individual and group therapy, anger management, parenting, and working with diverse populations. She has also served as a care coordinator and case manager, assisting elderly individuals, those in nursing homes, and people living with HIV/AIDS. Ferdousi’s evidence-based, tailored counseling approach fosters coping skills and supportive communities, making her a strong asset in promoting holistic well-being.
Kim Abella
(347) 421-8024
Language: English and Mandarin
Kim is the dedicated admin of Capacity and Psych Evaluation Services, bringing over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry. He provides billing and administrative support. His role ensures seamless coordination between clients, therapists, and attorneys, addressing their business needs with professionalism and efficiency. Kim’s deep understanding of healthcare operations allows him to provide exceptional support and service to the organization and the professionals he works with daily.
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
Payment method only for bangladesh
Pay with bKash
How to Pay:
Open your bKash app and select Send Money.
Enter the bKash number: 01336675860.
Enter the amount and add your reference name.
Confirm the payment.
Important:
Please include your reference name to help us track your payment.
For any queries, contact us at info@alifatherapy.com.
Pay with Nagad
How to Pay:
Open your Nagad app and select Send Money.
Enter our Nagad account number: 01336675860.
Enter the payment amount and add your reference name.
Confirm the payment to complete the transaction.
Important:
Please include your reference name so we can easily identify your payment.
For any questions or assistance, please contact us at info@alifatherapy.com.
Bank Transfer:
If you want to pay through bank transfer, here are the details:
Account Name: Ahmed Shamim Ashraf
Account Number: 24227075701
Bank: Standard Chartered Bank
Please include your reference name in the payment description so we can identify your payment.
For any questions or assistance, please contact us at info@alifatherapy.com.
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(Male Psychiatrist)
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
Dr. Mustafa (Female Psychiatrist):
* Phone: (347) 276-3801
* Additional Phone: 518-457-4179
Diet, Obesity & Mental Health
Diet and obesity affect mood, with stress linking them to disorders like depression and PTSD.
Charlie Health (IOP)
We partner with Charlie Health, a leading virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) that delivers structured, short-term mental health care for ages 8–64 — with no waitlist and access within 24 hours.
Clients receive personalized care through group therapy, individual therapy, and family sessions, all from the comfort of home.
Refer:
Yera Patel — 201‑589‑1646
yera.patel@charliehealth.com
Submit Referral Form
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