Inspiring Wellness Counseling & Mindfulness Therapy
  • Home
  • About
  • Clinicians, Sayville
  • Clinicians, Garden City Office
    • Clinicians, Riverhead
  • Administration
  • Counseling Services
  • EMDR Therapy
  • Mindfulness
  • Contact
  • Gallery
  • Home
  • About
  • Clinicians, Sayville
  • Clinicians, Garden City Office
    • Clinicians, Riverhead
  • Administration
  • Counseling Services
  • EMDR Therapy
  • Mindfulness
  • Contact
  • Gallery
Search by typing & pressing enter

YOUR CART

Our Clinicians 
Sayville Office

Picture
Sarah Post, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker – New York State
Sarah Post is a New York State Licensed Social Worker who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University. With a strong background in school-based mental health and community support services, Sarah has dedicated her career to working with youth and families to foster emotional well-being, self-confidence, and personal growth.
Sarah has extensive experience supporting individuals navigating Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). She works with children and adolescents facing challenges such as low self-esteem, difficulty with communication, school avoidance, and struggles with forming healthy peer relationships.
Sarah provides both individual and family counseling, developing collaborative, attainable goals that take into account the client’s personal strengths, support systems, and environment. Her therapeutic approach is holistic and tailored, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness practices to help clients build resilience, emotional regulation, and healthy coping skills.
In addition to her clinical background, Sarah is a certified Buti Yoga instructor and brings a unique mind-body perspective to her practice. She integrates mindfulness, movement, and meditation into her work, supporting clients in cultivating self-awareness and stress reduction techniques that extend beyond the therapy space.
​Sarah is passionate about the importance of self-care and works to empower clients—especially youth and families—to prioritize their mental and emotional wellness. With compassion and a strengths-based mindset, she helps individuals discover tools to support their well-being and thrive in everyday life.

Picture
Cara Ann Acquavita, LCSW, Certified EMDR Therapist
Licensed Clinical Social Worker – New York State
Inspiring Wellness – Sayville, NY
Cara Ann Acquavita is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist at Inspiring Wellness in Sayville, NY. She earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University and brings a strong foundation in both individual and family therapy. With years of clinical experience, Cara specializes in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based approach proven to help individuals heal from trauma, emotional distress, and painful life experiences.
Cara has extensive experience working with college students, young adults, and adults navigating a range of emotional challenges—including anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, life transitions, and stress management. She is passionate about supporting clients as they reclaim their inner strength, process difficult emotions, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Her therapeutic approach is integrative and client-centered, blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based techniques. Cara creates a safe, supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to make meaningful change. Her work focuses on fostering resilience, improving self-awareness, and helping clients develop practical tools for coping and growth.
Empathetic, approachable, and goal-oriented, Cara is deeply committed to helping individuals build balanced, fulfilling lives. She believes in meeting each client where they are and walking alongside them on their journey toward healing.
Picture
Amanda Buscetta, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker – New York State

Amanda Buscetta is a New York State Licensed Social Worker who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University. She also holds a Specialty Certification in Trauma, reflecting her dedication to trauma-informed care and supporting individuals through difficult life experiences.
Amanda brings extensive experience working with children and adolescents across a wide range of settings, including individual therapy, school-based programs, foster care, supportive community services, and youth coaching. Her work is grounded in empathy, resilience-building, and a deep understanding of the social and emotional challenges today’s youth and families face.
She specializes in supporting individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Self-Injurious Behaviors, low Self-Esteem, and difficulties related to life transitions or interpersonal conflict. Amanda creates a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and learn tools to manage stress and build confidence.
Amanda utilizes a range of evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based techniques. Her person-centered approach focuses on fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation while helping clients tap into their strengths and set realistic, personalized goals.
With a background in coaching and mental health coordination, Amanda currently serves as a Child and Adolescent Counselor and Mental Health Coordinator, where she provides comprehensive support to children, teens, and young adults navigating mental health and medical challenges. She is known for her compassionate presence, practical strategies, and unwavering commitment to helping young people build resilience and thrive.
​Amanda is passionate about guiding youth through their personal journeys, helping them gain the skills and confidence they need to live empowered, balanced, and fulfilling lives.
Picture
 
Rachel Russell, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker – New York State
Rachel is a New York State Licensed Master Social Worker who earned her Master’s Degree from Stony Brook University and holds a Specialty Certification in Trauma. With a strong background in school-based mental health, Rachel is passionate about supporting the emotional and social development of children and adolescents.
​Currently serving as an elementary school social worker, Rachel works with students in Kindergarten through fifth grade. She provides both individual and group counseling, helping young clients develop essential skills such as emotional regulation, impulse control, social interaction, and effective coping strategies. Her work is rooted in building trusting, supportive relationships that foster resilience and self-awareness.
Rachel integrates mindfulness into her therapeutic practice to help clients tune into their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. This mind-body connection allows children to better understand their internal experiences and use concrete strategies to manage anxiety, stress, and frustration.
She has experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, inattention, low self-esteem, and difficulties forming and maintaining peer relationships. Rachel utilizes evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, strength-based practices, and person-centered therapy to meet the unique needs of each child.
Known for her calm and empathetic approach, Rachel creates a safe and welcoming space where children feel seen, heard, and supported. She is committed to helping each child build confidence, self-regulation, and the emotional tools they need to thrive both in and outside of the classroom.
Picture
Michelle Christoffersen, LMSW
Licensed Social Worker – New York State
Michelle Christoffersen is a New York State Licensed Social Worker who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University, with a specialization in working with families, youth, adolescents, and individuals transitioning into adulthood. With over sixteen years of experience in the field, Michelle has supported individuals ages five through adulthood in a variety of settings, including clinical environments, schools, and community-based programs.
Much of Michelle’s career has focused on crisis intervention, working closely with school-aged children, teens, and their families. She is passionate about empowering clients to recognize their strengths, build resilience, and develop the tools they need to thrive. Her work is guided by a person-centered, collaborative approach that prioritizes each individual’s unique goals and personal definition of success.
In addition to her clinical background, Michelle brings valuable case management experience and an in-depth understanding of community resources and systems. She is skilled at helping clients access supports that enhance their overall well-being and improve their day-to-day functioning.
Michelle integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Behavior Modification, and Strength-Based and Solution-Focused approaches. She is also trained in trauma-informed care and crisis response. A strong advocate for wellness beyond the therapy room, Michelle emphasizes the importance of self-care and mindfulness, helping clients apply these practices in everyday life.
​Known for her warm, supportive, and grounded presence, Michelle is dedicated to creating a safe and encouraging space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. Whether navigating stress, emotional challenges, family dynamics, or life transitions, she is committed to walking alongside her clients on their path to healing and self-discovery.

Picture
Gina Bammann, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker – New York State
Gina Bammann is a Licensed Master Social Worker in New York State and a graduate of the Stony Brook University School of Social Welfare. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s College. With experience spanning private practice, nonprofit organizations, and school settings, Gina has worked extensively with individuals, parents, and families. She has led youth groups, conducted community outreach, and supported clients through a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges.
Gina is deeply passionate about mental health education and helping others understand the connection between emotional wellness and the mind-body system. Her clinical work focuses on the treatment of children, adolescents, young adults, new mothers, and first responders. She has supported clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, and major life transitions, offering a compassionate and strengths-based approach to therapy.
Gina helps clients identify healthy outlets for emotional expression, process difficult experiences, and develop the tools they need to improve their overall well-being. Her therapeutic approach is integrative and personalized, drawing from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Informed Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and the Strengths-Based Perspective.
Gina is committed to making therapy a space that clients look forward to—a place where they feel safe, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and emotional resilience and works collaboratively with clients to cultivate long-term growth and healing.
​In addition to her clinical practice, Gina has earned advanced certifications in Children of Trauma and Resilience, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Suicide Prevention, and Disaster Mental Health. She also completed the Seminar in Field Instruction (SIFI) at Adelphi University School of Social Work, where she mentors and supports future social workers.

With empathy, experience, and a genuine dedication to her clients’ growth, Gina brings both professionalism and heart to her practice.
Picture
Hanna Clair, LMSW Licensed Social Worker – New York State 
Garden City & Sayville


Hanna Clair is a Licensed Social Worker in New York State with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from New York University. She brings extensive experience working with children and adolescents, with a strong focus on promoting social-emotional development and overall well-being. Hanna also works with young adults and adults, helping clients navigate life stressors, transitions, and challenges.
Her clinical experience includes supporting individuals dealing with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Hanna is committed to fostering a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences, build self-awareness, and achieve personal growth.
Hanna’s therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strengths-based practices, and mindfulness techniques. She helps clients identify and process thoughts and emotions, improve communication, and develop practical coping strategies for everyday life. Compassionate and dedicated, Hanna is passionate about helping her clients thrive and reach their full potential.
Picture
Joan York-D'Angelo, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker – New York State
Joan York-D'Angelo is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Adelphi University. With over 25 years of experience, Joan brings a rich and diverse professional background across educational, medical, and mental health settings. Her work has been shaped by a deep commitment to helping individuals and families navigate life’s complexities with resilience and clarity.
​Joan believes that the most effective therapy is built on collaboration and trust. She works closely with clients to identify and prioritize their goals, empowering them to take an active role in their healing journey. Known for her calm presence and genuine empathy, Joan creates a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and valued.
Utilizing a multimodal approach, Joan draws from a variety of therapeutic techniques to tailor her support to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Her integrative style may include elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strengths-Based Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused techniques, among others. She works with clients of all ages, helping them address concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, and life transitions.
Joan is passionate about fostering growth, self-awareness, and emotional wellness. With compassion and decades of clinical expertise, she is dedicated to guiding her clients toward lasting change, healthier relationships, and a greater sense of purpose and well-being.

Picture
Katherine Iadanza, LMSW
Licensed Social Worker – New York State

Katherine Iadanza is a New York State Licensed Social Worker who earned her Master of Social Work degree from St. Joseph’s University. She brings experience working with adults, adolescents, and families in both school-based and clinical settings, where she has supported clients through a variety of emotional and relational challenges.
Katherine takes a solution-focused and strengths-based approach to therapy. She works collaboratively with individuals to help them envision and work toward their desired futures, drawing on their existing strengths, skills, and resilience. Her style is goal-oriented, compassionate, and rooted in the belief that lasting change begins with small, empowering steps.
Kat specializes in supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship difficulties. She incorporates mindfulness strategies and positive psychology to help clients build self-awareness, reduce stress, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Her approach creates a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, validated, and encouraged to make meaningful progress.
Deeply committed to helping others thrive, Kat believes in the power of intentional, strengths-driven therapy to promote growth, clarity, and confidence. Whether you’re facing daily stressors or working through long-standing emotional patterns, she is dedicated to walking alongside you on your path to healing and personal fulfillment.

Picture

Melissa Kass, MFT
Marriage and Family Therapist
Helping Individuals, Couples & Families Heal and Thrive

Melissa is a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist at Inspiring Wellness, where she works with individuals, couples, and families to reconnect, rebuild, and strengthen their relationships. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, Melissa brings warmth, empathy, and deep clinical insight to her work with children, teens, and adults.
Melissa is passionate about helping clients navigate life’s most difficult moments and relationship challenges. Her areas of focus include parenting struggles, communication breakdowns, healing after infidelity, blended family dynamics, divorce, co-parenting, and major life transitions such as relocation, loss, or career change. She understands the complexities that arise in relationships and works collaboratively with her clients to restore trust, foster understanding, and promote emotional healing.
Using a holistic and client-centered approach, Melissa draws from evidence-based practices such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Family Systems Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based techniques. Her goal is to help clients develop healthier communication patterns, strengthen emotional bonds, and create meaningful, lasting change within themselves and their relationships.
Melissa is known for her calming presence, open-mindedness, and ability to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel empowered to share their stories and explore new paths forward. She believes that healing happens in connection—and is honored to support individuals and families as they rediscover balance, clarity, and resilience.
Picture

Kellie Forst, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker – New York State


Kellie Forst is a New York State Licensed Master Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from St. Joseph’s University, New York. She brings a wealth of experience from both educational and clinical settings, where she has provided compassionate, strengths-based support to adolescents and adults navigating a wide range of emotional and mental health challenges.

Kellie is deeply committed to fostering resilience and enhancing overall well-being in her clients. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative and person-centered, empowering individuals to set meaningful goals, build coping strategies, and move toward positive, lasting change. She creates a warm, supportive environment where clients feel safe, heard, and understood.

Utilizing evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness techniques.  Kellie tailors her interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, severe mental illness, low self-esteem, and relationship difficulties.

​Kellie believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for healing and growth. With empathy, professionalism, and a deep respect for her clients' lived experiences, she is dedicated to helping individuals find clarity, confidence, and connection as they navigate life’s challenges.



Picture


Samantha-Marie Inesti, LMSW
Licensed Social Worker – New York State
Sayville

Samantha-Marie Inesti is a Licensed Social Worker in New York State who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University. With a strong clinical foundation and a passion for helping others heal, Samantha brings years of experience in trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and mental health counseling to her practice.
Samantha works with adolescents and adults facing a wide range of emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, stress management, anger issues, substance use disorders, relationship difficulties, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She also has deep experience supporting individuals through major life transitions, grief and loss, and the emotional impacts of past trauma.
Her therapeutic style is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. Samantha approaches each client with empathy, curiosity, and a deep respect for their lived experience. She uses a person-centered, strengths-based perspective to help clients identify their inner resources, understand their emotional patterns, and develop healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and relating.
Samantha incorporates a variety of evidence-based modalities into her work, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based practices. These approaches are used not only to build practical coping strategies but also to increase self-awareness, foster emotional regulation, and create sustainable behavioral change. Whether helping a client manage overwhelming stress, rebuild trust in relationships, or navigate the challenges of recovery, Samantha provides tailored, client-driven support every step of the way.
Samantha is especially passionate about helping individuals build healthier relationships with themselves and others—developing deeper self-compassion, better boundaries, and a greater sense of emotional balance. Her work is grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity to heal, grow, and create meaningful change in their lives.


Picture
Chloe Franza, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker – New York State
​

Chloe Franza is a New York State Licensed Master Social Worker who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Adelphi University. She brings a strong foundation in clinical mental health care, with extensive experience in crisis management and supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and adults across various stages of development.
​Chloe has worked in both school-based and clinical settings, where she has supported individuals facing a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. Her experience includes working with clients diagnosed with Psychiatric Disorders, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She is particularly skilled in helping youth and young adults navigate the complexities of emotional regulation, behavioral difficulties, and academic or social stressors.
Chloe’s therapeutic approach is integrative and client-centered. She utilizes evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based strategies, and strengths-based interventions. Her work focuses on helping clients build self-awareness, enhance emotional resilience, and develop effective coping strategies to better manage daily stressors and long-term challenges.
At the core of Chloe’s practice is a deep belief in the power of empowerment, encouragement, and human connection. She strives to create a safe, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic space where clients feel heard, respected, and motivated to grow. Chloe partners with each individual to set realistic goals, overcome obstacles, and foster independence and personal fulfillment.
With warmth, compassion, and a strong clinical foundation, Chloe is dedicated to helping her clients not only navigate life's difficulties but also build meaningful, balanced, and empowered lives.
​
Proudly powered by Weebly