Turning community donations into therapy.
We partner with private donors, typically fellow New Yorkers, to provide fully-funded therapy sessions focused on emotional regulation, coping skills, and stability.
Who This Program is For
We offer free therapy in NYC to teens and young adults ages 13 to 25 who either don’t have insurance or are covered by a government plan that doesn’t include mental health care. To qualify, you must also be a resident of New York City.
From Fundraising to Real Therapy
In 2025, we raised $10,200, or 145 free therapy sessions for 18 New Yorkers. Every dollar raised is allocated directly toward fully-funded therapy sessions, ensuring transparent, measurable access to mental health care for New Yorkers in need.
Who We’ve Served
Since launching the initiative in September 2025, we’ve received 40+ inquiries from eligible teens and young adults.
Impact Beyond Therapy
Beyond emotional regulation and coping, this program has supported real-world stability—including assistance in two housing insecurity cases affecting participants’ safety and well-being.
Our Goals
Through short-term, focused therapy, we help teens and young adults build emotional tools, strengthen resilience, and feel more confident navigating life’s challenges.
Emotionally Regulate
Equip clients with practical tools to manage stress, regulate emotions, and navigate interpersonal challenges with greater stability and self-awareness.
Build Stability & Resilience
Reduce periods of financial strain, housing instability, academic pressure, or family conflict to promote functional stability.
Strengthen Self-Efficacy
Help clients develop insight, communication skills, and confidence in managing their mental health beyond the eight-session program.
Meet the Team
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Laura Caruso, LMHC
FOUNDER & CLINICAL DIRECTOR
Laura practices from a relational lens and prides herself as a down-to-earth and “no bullshit” therapist. She will help you break free from self-limiting patterns and lead you towards fulfilling relationships with deep connections. -
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Elijah Bischoff, BA
COMMUNITY OUTREACH & IMPACT CORDINATOR
Elijah leads efforts to expand access to care through strategic partnerships and donor engagement. They oversee the growth and coordination of our Free Therapy in NYC initiative, ensuring that community support translates directly into structured, measurable clinical care.
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Hayley Schlattman, MHC-LP
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Hayley is a trauma-informed therapist who finds passion in connecting with others and helping them feel seen and heard. Her identity as a queer woman pushed her to vocalize and stand up against the inequalities many people face. -
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Erica Tello, MHC-LP
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Erica is a relational therapist who is passionate about creating a space for everyone to be true to themselves. She supports clients to work towards self-compassion, build healthier relationships, and find peace with their bodies, food and/or identities. -
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Shannon Ganley, MHC-LP
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Shannon is a relational therapist who supports individuals and couples navigating pregnancy and parenthood. She helps clients untangle outdated and ill-fitting expectations, explore relational identities, and build coping tools—always with space for both humor and tears. -
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Gabrielle Sylvester, MHC-I
CLINICAL RESIDENT
Gabrielle meets her clients with curiosity, supporting them in generating insights about how past experiences have shaped their nervous system, their relationships, and their sense of safety. She works with clients at a pace that honors their experiences and all parts of their identity.
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Tyson Alamo, MHC-I
CLINICAL RESIDENT
Tyson is a trauma-informed therapist grounded in authenticity, compassion, connection, and self-discovery. As a queer Latine clinician, Tyson is committed to uplifting marginalized voices and helping clients navigate the emotional impact of systemic and relational trauma.
