FOUNDER & LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

John P. Molinari, LCSW

After completing my graduate degree at Barry University in Clinical Social Work, I knew that I wanted to help people in a private practice setting. Founding Stony Brook Counseling has allowed me to provide counseling services to many people. I have been practicing psychotherapy in the Broward area since 1981. My own areas of expertise include individual, marital, family and group psychotherapy.

Stony Brook Counseling Center is unique in the fact that it is set up in the tradition of an old fashioned practice where people matter. The atmosphere is warm and comfortable, and conveys feelings of hope, belonging, and growth.

My goal is to help people deal with their issues and learn valuable coping skills to enhance the quality of their lives. In this way, people can learn to free themselves from emotional pain and begin to move forward in a positive direction in order to enjoy a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Social Work, Barry University

Master of Social Work, Barry University

 

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Monica Zarate, LMHC

When you are faced with severe life stressors, it is not uncommon to reach out for help from a licensed therapist. I have worked at Stony Brook Counseling Center as a Psychotherapist for more than 20 years

I have extensive experience in the implementation of individual, couples, and family-focused prevention and treatment interventions with families of children and adolescents ages 14-17. Treating symptoms ranging from anxiety and depression to adjustment disorders, trauma, and challenges managing anger and stress, I use an evidence-based systemic approach to strengthen family functioning and reduce symptoms including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT), Mindfulness and Strength-Based interventions, and Gottman strategies.

LANGUAGES:

Spanish, English

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts, University of Miami

Master of Science, University of Miami

 

LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

Carol Gwaltney, LCSW

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist since 2002 and a Psychotherapist with Stony Brook Counseling Center since 2004. I work with adults and individuals 18 years old and older, as well as couples and families.

My specialty is working with individuals and with families suffering from alcohol or substance use disorders. I also work with people needing support and coping skills to manage anxiety, depression, stress, codependency, and unsolved issues from adverse childhood experiences.

I utilize an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and connection to like-minded community resources (i.e.: 12 step programs) when possible.

I believe every human being has the capacity to heal and grow, and my role is to empower my clients to tap into that inner resource.

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Liberal Arts, Barry University

Master of Social Work, Barry University

 

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Melanie McMillion, LMHC

Receiving a life altering health diagnosis, finding yourself in an unplanned caregiving role, or the death of a loved one are a few examples of life events that you may find yourself suddenly faced with. These life events may trigger feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, sadness, anger, and despair. Together, with a safe and compassionate setting we will explore your strengths, gain clarity, and address any fears. My goal is to provide support, instill hope, and introduce proactive tools to face this life event head on.

My twenty years of supporting clients within the Healthcare System in palliative, hospice, and bereavement care will provide you with vital insight and knowledge.

Although Life Transitions are challenging, together, you will move forward with a greater sense of insight, mindfulness, and peace.

ISSUES

  • Alzheimer's

  • Anger Management

  • Anxiety

  • Chronic Pain

  • Coping Skills

  • Depression

  • End of Life

  • HIV/AIDS

  • Stress

 AGE

  • Adolescents / Teenagers (14 to 19)

  • Adults

  • Elders (65+)

TREATMENT APPROACH

  • Coaching

  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

  • Compassion Focused

  • Eclectic

  • Existential

  • Gestalt

  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)

  • Person-Centered

  • Positive Psychology

  • Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

  • Strength-Based

    EDUCATION

    Bachelor of Arts, Palm Beach Atlantic College

    Master of Science, Nova Southeastern University

 

LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

Elana Polsyn, LCSW

Elana (Lonnie) Polsyn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers.  She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from University of Florida.  She earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration on working with adults from Barry University.

Ms. Polsyn has worked extensively with the older population and hospice patients.  Lonnie has provided bereavement counseling to adults in the South Florida community for over 10 years and has worked with the Children’s Bereavement Center. She currently specializes in working with older persons and caregivers of persons with chronic illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia. Lonnie is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, and holds an advanced Credential in Clinical Social Work- Gerontology.   Lonnie also provides services to persons experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Adjustment Disorders, Life Transitions, and end of life decisions.

Lonnie also has an extensive background in Coaching and work/life transitions. She has done Coaching in the workplace for Aetna, Nova Southeastern University, The City of Oakland Park, and many others. Lonnie has coached first responders, students, administrative staff, and executives.

Lonnie is empathetic, compassionate, and non-judgmental and has the ability to relate to others at their level. She offers a safe environment in which her clients can comfortably express themselves, explore their issues at hand, and learn the coping skills necessary to help them handle their personal situations more effectively.

Lonnie utilizes an eclectic style of therapy that includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Mindfulness, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Strength Based and Compassion Based Therapy, and Coaching.

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts, University of Florida

Master of Social Work, Barry University

 

PSYCHOLOGIST

Dr. Orly Beldner Belteu

 I started my Career in the helping profession from the age of 13 when I enrolled as a Hospital Volunteer at Astoria General Hospital/Laguardia Hospital and Rego Park Nursing Home in Queens, New York. I was accepted into the Bio-Medical Program at Forest Hills H.S, Queens, New York where I received an Advanced Regents Diploma, and followed through with a Dual-Degree in the medical profession. This consisted of being a Double Major (Pre-Med and Clinical Psychology) alongside a Double Minor in Cultural Anthropology and Chemistry. In 1993 & 1996, I received Summa Cum Laude - Master of Science in Mental Health and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

I have an Eclectic Approach that is driven by my client’s wants and needs. Diverse Cultural Awareness, Understanding and Experience, Humanitarianism, Existentialism, being Non-Judgmental while placing the Person as my driving force - “Supportive of the Journey and Respectful of the Process”.

TREATMENT APPROACH

Psycho-Analysis, Dream Interpretation, Art Therapy, Psychodynamic, REBT, CBT, Transference Focus, Developmental, Person-Centered, ACT, Integrative, Coaching, Positive and Strength Building Therapy, Cognitive Analytical, Compassion Therapy, Client Centered, Psycho-Social/ Psychotherapeutic Evaluations, Desensitization, Emotional Support Letters-ESA, EMDR, ABA, LGBTQ + Inclusion Therapy

MODALITY

Individual - Adult, Geriatric, Children, Adolescent, Family, Couple, Marital, LGBTQ+/Sex Reassignment, Substance Abuse, PTSD, Worker’s Comp, Medical/Mental/Physical Disabilities, EAP, OCD, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Alzheimer’s Dementia, Trauma/Bullying, Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss, Telehealth,...

LANGUAGES

Spanish, French, Hebrew & Romanian

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Hunter College

Master of Science, Miami Institute of Psychology

Doctorate of Science, Miami Institute of Psychology

 

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Cristina Serrano, LMHC

I received my Masters degree from Barry University in Counseling with a specialization in Mental Health and a specialization Marriage, Couple and Family counseling. My clinical experience includes working with the following populations: couples, families, LGBTQ, trauma and substance abuse. I utilize Solution Focus and Cognitive-Behavioral approaches to therapy, and  strive to provide a safe, comfortable and nonjudgmental environment for my clients.  

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts, Florida International University

Master of Science, Barry University

 

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Ieshy Gales, LMHC

Types of Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

  • Compassion Focused

  • Eclectic

  • Existential

  • Gestalt

  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)

  • Person-Centered

  • Positive Psychology

  • Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

  • Strength-Based

    EDUCATION

    Bachelor of Arts, California State University

    Master of Science, Nova Southeastern University

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Janet Vargas, LMHC

I believe that everyone has the right to live the life they imagine for themselves. Each of us has a right to feel safe, respected, protected and loved. I have been a psychotherapist for the past twenty years. I chose this profession because I wanted to continue to grow and explore life to its fullest in a work environment that generates positivity. I have worked extensively with the HIV/AIDS community, engaged in comprehensive therapy with sexual abuse and trauma clients, along with a focus on work/life balance concerns. I focus on the client’s strengths, and goals, and explore one's thoughts, past experiences, and belief systems.

I utilize different therapeutic dynamics including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, EMDR, Play, and Art Therapy. I offer a collaborative, eclectic, non-judgmental approach to help people better negotiate the imbalances in their lives and help them identify and achieve their goals. Change is always possible.

I am optimistic that together we can work on finding the therapeutic approach that best meets your needs. I look forward to helping you commit to achieving the life and reality you desire and deserve.

SPECIALTIES

  • Sexual Abuse

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Anxiety

ISSUES

  • Behavioral Issues

  • Coping Skills

  • Depression

  • Family Conflict

  • Grief

  • Stress

  • Transgender

MENTAL HEALTH

  • Elderly Persons Disorders

  • Mood Disorders

  • Personality Disorders

SEXUALITY

  • Bisexual

  • LGBTQ+

  • Lesbian

Ethnicity: Hispanic and Latino

AGE

  • Elders (65+)

  • Adults

  • Teen

COMMUNITIES

  • Blind Allied

  • Gay Allied

  • HIV / AIDS Allied

  • Lesbian Allied

  • Non-Binary Allied

  • Queer Allied

  • Racial Justice Allied

  • Sex Worker Allied

  • Transgender Allied

Treatment Approach

  • Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

  • Adlerian

  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

  • Compassion Focused

  • Culturally Sensitive

  • EMDR

  • Eclectic

  • Existential

  • Feminist

  • Humanistic

  • Jungian

  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)

  • Motivational Interviewing

  • Narrative

  • Person-Centered

  • Positive Psychology

  • Psychodynamic

  • Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

  • Strength-Based

  • Trauma

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts, Florida Atlantic University

Master of Science, Nova Southeastern University

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Michael Calabria, LMHC

My philosophy is that everyone has the right to be who they want to be, to be their true selves, and to feel safe, respected and comfortable with themselves. I have been involved in the field of psychology for over 30 years, starting with being a Pych-tech for various mental health facilities to currently practicing psychotherapy.  I would say the profession chose me as it was in my nature to assist people in need. I always had an ability to connect and help others. I want to continue to contribute to the community and those in need. In a world of division, uncertainty, and confusion my goal is to bring solidarity, calmness, and peace. To assist others with self-exploration, insight, conflict-resolution, and growth. To live life to its fullest in all aspects of their daily routine. I have collaborated with various communities and counseled many challenging situations. I have extensive experience working with multi-Cultural clients (African American, Haitian, Jamaican, Hispanic, and Native Americans}, Alternative lifestyle and LQGBT, Early Childhood, Adolescence, teens, and Adults, and low social economic status. I have experiences counseling many daily challenges (couples/marriage, careers issues, life adjustments, Trauma, Loss and Grief, conflict resolution, etc.). and mental health issues (Depression, Alcohol and Substance, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Etc.) I believe in a comprehensive approach to therapy that best benefits the client. As I am just the Facilitator assisting the client in recognizing and utilizing their strengths to overcome their challenges and weaknesses to reach their goals.

It is my practice to follow a comprehensive, eclectic approach to therapy by implementing different therapeutic dynamics that meet the client’s needs. These include, but not limited to Solution focused therapy, Conflict Resolution, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play, and Art Therapy Symptom reduction, Replacement Therapy, and Psychoeducation,

I believe there is a solution to every problem, and everyone has an opportunity to live a full quality life. I am confident by working together we can find the solutions to a better quality of life through the therapeutic process.  

SPECIALTIES

  • Sexual Abuse

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Anxiety

  • Substance and Alcohol

  • Conflict

  • Couples/Marriage

  • Childhood, Adolescence, Teenagers

  • Career/Employment

  • Multi-cultural

  • Financial/Economic

 ISSUES

 Behavioral Issues

  • Coping Skills

  • Depression

  • Family Conflict

  • Grief

  • Stress

 MENTAL HEALTH

  • Elderly Persons Disorders

  • Mood Disorders

  • Personality Disorders

SEXUALITY

  • Bisexual

  • LGBTQ+

  • Lesbian

AGE

  • Elders (65+)

  • Adults

  • Teen

  • Adolescence

  • Early Childhood

TREATMENT APPPROACH

  • Compassion Focused

  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

  • Culturally Sensitive

  • Eclectic

  • Existential

  • Humanistic

  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)

  • Motivational

  • Psychoeducation

  • Conflict-resolution

  • Person-Centered

  • Positive Psychology

  • Psychodynamic

  • Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

  • Strength-Based

  • Trauma

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts, Western Maryland College

Master of Science, Nova Southeastern University

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Jean Corbae, LMHC

Welcome! If you’re here, it means that you’ve taken a step toward changing your life for the better: whether it’s to improve a relationship or the way you feel or think; find some clarity and calm; or determine which steps to take to reach your goals.

Together we will uncover the achievable internal and/or external changes you would like and the steps to reach them. Drawing from a variety of methods such as CBT, DBT, ACT, I combine compassion with practicality to help you realize your desired changes. Sometimes I may just listen if that's what you need or nudge you toward change either by looking at something in a new way or by having you implement an untried behavior. My role is to help you get unstuck and feel confident about your life’s direction and your ability to manage it.

I have been working as a Counselor since 2011 and have been licensed in the State of Florida since 2015. I started as a Counselor in an outpatient facility for addiction, anger management including domestic violence, and shoplifting. Since then, I have worked in private practice settings and most recently in a school setting with elementary and middle school aged children. I have helped kids, adolescents, and adults (including couples) navigate anxiety, relationship issues, loss, life changes, depression, and other emotional and situational challenges. I look forward to working with you.

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, University of Colorado, Boulder

Master of Arts, Adams State University

LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER, PhD Candidate

Janus Moncur, LCSW

My career has been dedicated to working with individuals who have found themselves living a less than ideal life due to suffering with emotional, mental, or trauma symptoms.  The anxiety, fatigue, and feelings of overwhelm are not trivial. It can affect everything in our lives - self-worth, relationships, career, physical and mental health and more. The past happens and it can keep us stuck in unhealthy beliefs and behaviors.

I am assisted by Bear, my 6-year-old, Keeshond who is a Registered Therapy Dog and NATIONAL Crisis Response Canine. Bear’s unconditional love and acceptance helps provide a calm and relaxed approach to our sessions which is especially helpful when working through issues from past traumatic experiences. Together we have helped over a thousand individuals who suffered after adverse experiences through Canine-Assisted Trauma Therapy and Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) - A progressive technique to provide a gentler, faster and more permanent relief from the symptoms from Simple/Complex Trauma, Abuse/Neglect, Grief and Loss, Shame/Guilt, Anger/Resentment, Compassion Fatigue.

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD

Anxiety

Grief

Issues

Addiction

Anger Management

Canine-Assisted Trauma Therapy

Codependency

Coping Skills

Life Coaching

Life Transitions

Qualified Supervisor for Social Work Interns

Relationship Issues

Sexual Abuse

Stress

Women's Issues

Client Focus

Adults

Teen

First Responders

Veterans

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

Canine-Assisted Therapy

Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

EMDR

Eclectic

Hypnotherapy

Motivational Interviewing

Narrative

Positive Psychology

Rapid Resolution Therapy®

Trauma Focused

Modality

Individuals

Couples

Group

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Ferris State University

Master of Social Work, Barry University

PhD Candidate, Barry University (Exploring the experience of First Responders and Canine-Assisted Therapy)

Get started with Stony Brook Counseling, today.