Welcome! My name is Edili Marleny Maldonado, and I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York, a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina, and a licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals from diverse backgrounds lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Throughout my ten years of practice, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, adults, elders, and high-risk clients. My clients come from various social backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, ages, genders, and economic statuses, and I have experience addressing a wide range of mental health disorders.
I take an eclectic approach to therapy, tailoring my methods to each client’s unique needs. While I often use cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, modeling, and motivational interviewing, I prioritize aligning therapeutic approaches with my client’s specific goals and challenges to enhance the effectiveness of treatment.
Therapeutic Philosophy
My desire to help others led me to pursue a career in mental health. I believe that change happens when individuals are met with empathy, understanding, and unconditional positive regard. By providing a safe, nonjudgmental space, I empower my clients to explore their inner selves, challenge limiting beliefs, and develop new perspectives and coping skills.
A significant moment in therapy occurs when a client experiences a breakthrough realization that shifts their perspective and allows them to break free from self-limiting patterns. Witnessing these moments of insight and their positive impact reaffirms the transformative power of therapy.
Areas of Expertise
I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including ADHD, grief and loss, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, panic, stress, and mood disorders. Additionally, I am proficient in Spanish and have extensive experience providing treatment in that language, allowing me to create a culturally sensitive and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Inspiration and Influences
Growing up in a monolingual Spanish-speaking household and navigating between cultures has significantly shaped my perspective and increased my sensitivity to diverse experiences. This unique multicultural background allows me to offer a more inclusive and empathetic approach to therapy.
I am continually inspired by the resilience and strength of individuals who overcome adversity and find ways to thrive. This inspiration drives me to provide the best possible support and guidance on their journey toward healing and personal growth.
My work is also influenced by mentors, supervisors, and prominent figures in the mental health field. The research and teachings of Jon Kabat-Zinn, Dr. Aaron T. Beck, and Steve de Shazer have enriched my understanding of mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and positive psychology.
Collaborative Healing
Clients who benefit most from therapy with me are open-minded, motivated, and actively engaged in the therapeutic process. Our collaboration and strong therapeutic alliance are crucial for achieving meaningful and successful outcomes.
I commend every client for seeking treatment, as it demonstrates their strength and determination to improve themselves. Together, we can embark on a journey of healing and positive change.
Let’s Begin the Healing Process Together
If you are ready to take the first step toward a healthier and more fulfilling life, I am here to support and guide you. Let’s begin this transformative journey together.