Meet Our Team
Mercedes A Paine, MD
Dr. Mercedes A. Paine is a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience and is board-certified in Psychiatry & Neurology. She earned her medical degree from Pontificia Universidad Catolica Madre y Maestra and completed her training at Columbia University's New York State Psychiatric Institute. Her integrative approach considers biological, psychosocial, and environmental factors, utilizing psychotherapy, pharmacological management, and individualized strategies.
Dr. Paine specializes in diagnosing and managing Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Disruptive Behavioral Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, and offers clinical support to schools and child study teams. An intuitive and compassionate physician, she is committed to helping patients achieve their therapeutic goals.
Heidi Flax, MA LPC LMFT
Heidi Flax is a NJ state-licensed marriage & family psychotherapist with a degree from New York University, who has been working with families, children, adolescents, adults and couples for over 30 years. Many people begin therapy to work towards moving aside obstacles or issues that prevent movement forward, whatever that looks like to them...it is all individual.
In her work with families she connects especially well with struggling adolescents/teens. As many families enter treatment in crisis, they require help to move towards developing clearer, realistic goals. The diversity of having worked in mental health, education & private practice has helped adopt a versatile approach to treatment.
In her practice, the mind-body connection is fundamental for growth and the use of relaxation, yoga and hypnotherapy as tools offers success in decreasing stress & anxiety & developing goals. It is important to know how to incorporate certain mindful techniques to increase self-awareness.
Cathy Gilio, LCSW
Cathy Gilio is a licensed clinical social worker with a graduate degree from New York University. She is an experienced clinician with over 20 years of practice in a variety of settings, including schools, treatment facilities, hospitals, partial care and substance abuse centers. In her current practice, she specializes in treating children as young as age 3, adolescents and families.
As an EMDR trained therapist, Cathy has expertise in working with trauma and anxiety.
In her work, an understanding of the connection between mind and body is addressed with the use of mindfulness techniques, Somatics Experiencing, Sensory Motor Therapy & Relaxation. Cathy brings to the relationship a warmth & sense of humor which fosters a safe, nurturing envirnment for healing.
Annamaria Palante, LCSW
Annamaria Palante proudly graduated from Montclair State University with a distinguished dual undergraduate degree in both Psychology and Criminal Justice. Following this impressive academic achievement, she went on to obtain a Master's Degree in Science and Social Work from the prestigious Columbia University. In her professional practice, Annamaria provides both individual and group therapy for a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults. She is dedicated to treating a variety of emotional and behavioral disorders, which include but are not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Illness, Autism, and Grief.
Mary Huss Zetelski, LCSW
Mary Huss Zetelski is an LCSW with over 20 years of experience working in schools, medical settings and private practice. Utilizing hypnotherapy, internal family systems and post partum support, Mary helps children, adults and seniors facing life's transitions from birth to death. As a certified supervisor for interns and social workers, Mary also assists in preparing towards licensing and SW hours. Holding certifications in EMDR, Bowen Family Systems, Grief Therapy & an advanced certification in Hospice & Palliative Care, Mary helps facilitate healing from trauma, loss and illness through individual family and group therapy.
Juan Carlos Morel, LCSW
Juan Carlos Morel is a licensed Social Worker who specializes in Trauma- Focused Therapy with adolescents and adults. Juan Carlos works with victims and perpetrators of Domestic Violence, challenging belief systems that normalize abuse to create healthy relationships and behavior changes.
He is trained in different therapy modalities including CBT, and EMDR and has experience working with adolescents and young adults with special needs. Using a strength based approach and employing techniques to help individuals explore and develop a sense of hope and empowerment, Juan Carlos uses each individuals traits and abilities to transcend life's challenges.
Juan Carlos brings energy, positivity and spiritual healing within the therapeutic experience providing a safe & nurturing environment and is passionate about baseball, basketball, reading, music and the beautiful development of mental health.
Laura Robinson, LCSW
Laura Robinson, LCSW obtained her MSW at NYU and has been working in the field of social work for over 25 years. As a psychotherapist/counselor, Laura has worked in a variety of settings including public and private organizations, offering her the opportunity to work with a diverse population. As a highly experienced individual, group and family therapist, Laura strives to empower her clients and meet them where they are in life utilizing a variety of treatment modalities. Laura is NASW certified to supervise Social Workers looking to obtain their LCSW.