Alana Kaufman, LCSW
I am the Founder and Director of The Talk Suite. I have hand-selected each therapist on our team, sharing with them my philosophy, expertise and passion for my work. I encourage our team to use an eclectic and flexible approach to the way in which we practice therapy; adapting different theories of psychology to the individual needs of our clients.
I am a Psychoanalyst and New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University and postgraduate education at Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy. I have been in private practice for more than twenty years.
I am a compassionate and caring psychotherapist who will respect your feelings while working through issues of concern for your well-being. I believe that being curious about yourself and how you are in the world is a big part of the therapeutic action.
I use an eclectic approach adapting the different theories of psychology appropriately to the needs of the individual (or couple). Working together dynamically, through a mutual dialogue, we can explore and become curious regarding all areas of concern in your life.
Rebecca Fisch, LMSW
I believe that everyone has the ability to lead a fulfilling life, but sometimes we need a little help to get there. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, or any other challenge, I'm here to help you navigate your way through it.
I have a master’s degree in social work from New York University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology, also from New York University. My therapeutic approach is holistic and eclectic, combining modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, attachment frameworks, and more. Treatment is tailored to best fit each client’s individual needs.
I help clients achieve their goals while utilizing their inner strengths. I work collaboratively with my clients to create a safe, non-judgmental space where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I understand that seeking therapy can be a difficult decision, and I commend you for taking this step. Together, we can work towards creating positive change in your life.
Angela Giardina, LMSW
Relationships are one of the most transformative pieces of life and at the core of every connection is your relationship with yourself. It can be quite easy to become consumed by the tasks of day to day life that we often forget to connect with ourselves and may be unaware of what limiting unconscious beliefs we carry from our past experiences. Whether you may be struggling to get through your day due to concerns related to anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, transitions, relationships or trauma; or are simply needing an appointed time and space for self exploration, taking the first step of beginning therapy is one that is most notable. My goal as a psychotherapist is to provide a nurturing and collaborative space for reparative work and to support individuals to live a life guided by self-awareness and self-compassion.
I am an LMSW from New York with my masters degree from New York University. I practice Psychodynamic psychotherapy that is collaborative and empowering, understanding that ultimately YOU are the navigator of your own healing. Treatment is holistic and individualized by integrating CBT, insight oriented, strengths based, mindfulness and attachment frameworks. I aim to meet individuals where they are on their journey and am privileged to explore the internal lives of each unique person.
Emily M. Cruz, LMSW
Trying to find help can be frustrating and even terrifying during difficult times. You might have had to push past stigma, criticism, toxic family relationships, or self-doubt to get to this point. Even when depression, life transitions, trauma, or anger have seemed insurmountable, you’re here today, and that takes more strength than you might know.
That is why I am here to provide a non-judgmental, validating, and warm space for you to express yourself. My therapeutic approach is insight-oriented and eclectic. I draw from various modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy, narrative therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and mindfulness, to meet your specific needs.
I support individuals experiencing grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, and trauma. I hold my master’s degree in social work from Columbia University.
Helena Valla, LMSW
My name is Helena and I’m a licensed social worker providing individual psychotherapy services to a wide variety of clients with various needs. I take a person-centered approach and pull from various therapeutic modalities including psychoanalytic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based therapy.
I earned my bachelor’s in psychology as well as my master’s in social work from Stony Brook University. I’ve gained experience in number of clinical settings, including a private psychotherapy practice where I worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, substance use issues, and postpartum mood disorders. I’ve helped lead clients through major life changes such as going through a divorce, having a baby, coming out, and losing a loved one.
I pride myself on being able to create a space free of judgment, where my clients can feel safe opening up about past traumas or whatever they might be struggling with in that moment. Beyond that, I provide my clients with the tools to make a positive difference in their lives outside of our therapy sessions. I believe that my clients are the experts of their own experience, and I will work side-by-side with you to overcome life’s obstacles in a way that works for you. My therapy style is warm, direct, and strengths-based.
Thank you for taking the first step and allowing me to be part of your journey in getting to know yourself better and becoming the best version of yourself.
Deborah Popper, LMSW
My name is Deborah Popper and I am a Licensed Social Worker from New York State. I have worked in the non profit industry for over ten years. Specifically, working as a Program Director and Outreach Coordinator for a community center in Queens, New York. We specialized in offering counseling services and supportive academic and recreational programming for at risk youth in the tri-state area, Additionally, I have had the opportunity to work as a Social Worker in the school setting for students with traumatic brain injuries and brain disorders.
I have worked with children, young adults, and families with a heavy focus on behavioral issues, anxiety, and depression. I believe in creating a safe place for my clients so they are able to express their needs and reach their goals. I focus heavily on the use of modalities that are inclusive of mindfulness, CBT, and talk therapy.
In my spare time I like to spend time reading and spending time outside. Additionally, I enjoy playing with my dog and going on new adventures.
Andrew Borden, Chief Administrative Officer
As Chief Administrative Officer, and Cofounder for The Talk Suite (Alana Kaufman, LCSW, P.C.). Andrew leads key initiatives in support of operational and strategic priorities to advance the organization’s mission and vision. He serves as liaison with the President and Cofounder Alana Kaufman, LCSW to provide management oversight and coordination of programs, initiatives and special projects, as well as deal with challenging situations and resolve problems related to behavioral health with the company’s clinicians, clients and vendors.
Additionally, Andrew leads the practice-wide onboarding initiatives to satisfy safe return to work policies by improving operational efficiencies and increasing safety at each of The Talk Suite locations.