Yanira Ildefonso-Patino, MSED, MHC-LP
Education:
CAS Mental Health Counseling,
Alfred University, 2023
MSED in Bilingual School Counseling,
St John's University, May 2020
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Criminal Justice, LIU-CW Post, May 2010
Affiliations:
ASCA, American School Counseling Association
ACA, American Counseling Association
Chi Sigma Iota, Counseling Academic and Professional Honor society
Greetings, My name is Yanira!
I am a Mental Health Counselor with a Limited Permit and a graduate of Alfred University's Certificate of Advanced Studies in Mental Health Counseling program. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring a strong foundation in supporting individuals through life's challenges and helping them navigate their emotional and mental well-being.
In addition to my work as a therapist, I am a full-time school counselor, where I have extensive experience supporting adolescents through academic, social, emotional, and personal challenges. While working with adolescents has been a significant part of my professional journey, I am passionate about expanding my clinical work to support individuals across different ages and stages of life.
My counseling approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and collaborative, with an emphasis on mindfulness, self-care, and developing healthy coping strategies. I believe that therapy should be a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where individuals feel comfortable exploring their emotions, building self-awareness, and working toward meaningful change.
My areas of focus include anxiety, stress management, self-esteem, emotional regulation, adolescent challenges, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
I believe wellness is a journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I look forward to walking alongside you as you discover your strengths, embrace personal growth, and work toward a healthier, more balanced life.