About Us

Valerie And Our Team Are Proudly Offering In-Person And Online Therapy In Long Island, Serving Out Of Smithtown, NY

New Beginnings Associates is founded by Valerie Jessen L.C.S.W-R,  a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of individuals, couples, and children. With over 20 years' experience as a clinician, my journey as a therapist has led to a specialization in the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders.  My practice has a dedication to the treatment of all anxiety disorders. My approach to the treatment of anxiety is unique.  Through a foundation in cognitive behavioral theory, I have developed a program of treatment to assist clients in gaining control over anxious symptoms. Most clients feel improvement of anxious symptoms within a few sessions.  My approach in treatment includes education and humor.  Of most importance, my approach is one rooted in the belief that all people are designed to heal.  A balance exists in us all.   

Jaclyn Levine, Clinical Social Worker/Therapist, L.C.S.W-R- I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works to diagnose and treat adolescents, adults, children and families. My specialization is on chronic health conditions/chronic pain. I have learned that people with "invisible illnesses" are often overlooked and misunderstood. My goal is to help people feel heard. Throughout my experience, I have learned that everyone needs and deserves a personalized approach to their treatment and recovery. I have found that this helps individuals tremendously with their treatment and I strive to provide that for you.  My past experience includes working with people who have chronic and persistent mental illness. During that time, I have fine tuned my clinical skills and been able to assist my clients with developing goals that are specific to their needs/desires. I have found this to be extremely beneficial.  Its never too early or too late to take time and invest in yourself. I hope I can assist you on that journey.

Jessica Fanning, Clinical Social Worker, L.C.S.W - Jessica specializes in working with clients who are struggling with stressful life transitions, anxiety, feelings of inadequacy, emotional connection, intimacy and sexual issues.  She helps clients identify and change the unhealthy cycles that may be creating feelings of being stuck.  With respect, sensitivity, and expertise I will help you improve your relationships, create meaningful connections and improve your life.  Jessica has been successfully treating clients for 6 years.  She has worked in clinical settings helping clients with interpersonal relationship skills, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance.  Jessica has extensive training in sex therapy, as well as specializations in mindfulness, trauma and anxiety.  

Kaitlyn Mckee LMHC, ADHD-CCSP - As a certified ADHD-CCSP, I bring both expertise and energy to my work with teens and young adults. I specialize in ADHD and also support clients navigating autism, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. My style is laid-back and collaborative, focused on finding strategies that actually work for you. Think of it as a mix of real talk, practical tools, and genuine support to help you feel grounded and confident.  In sessions, I blend evidence-based strategies with a down-to-earth approach—meeting clients where they are and helping them discover what works best for their unique brains and lives. I especially enjoy working with teens stepping into high school or college and young adults finding their way in new careers, relationships, or independence. My goal is always to create a space where clients feel understood, capable, and equipped to thrive—not just survive—in today’s fast-paced world.

Cara Stamm, L.M.H.C. - D -Cara offers an integrative approach to process life’s challenges without judgement. Therapeutic, yet client driven, Cara believes that everyone has the power to be the best version of themselves. Her approach is creative and compassionate, and often developed specifically to meet each client’s needs. Cara has an extensive background in crisis care management, with specialty areas including child therapy, trauma counseling, mood disorders, TBI, and individuals on the Autism Spectrum. 

 

Madison Montgomery, L.M.H.C - Madison is a licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 7 years experience working with individuals of all ages.  Madison has worked with individuals through all stages of life, including navigating interpersonal skills, grief and loss, anxiety, depression as well as distress tolerance.  Madison works to promote a person-centered environment, utilizing a variety of techniques including CBT, Solution Focused Therapy as well as mindfulness approaches.  Madison believes in working collaboratively with each individual to empower and educate them into making meaningful changes in their lives. 

Georgie Mantovani, L.C.S.W. - As a mental health therapist with over three years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with individuals across a wide range of ages, from children to adults, and helping them navigate the complexities of mental health. My experience spans various concerns, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anger management, life transitions, and more. I deeply understand how these challenges can impact every aspect of life and am committed to helping clients develop the tools they need to manage their emotions, behaviors, and relationships in healthy, effective ways.  My therapeutic approach is centered on creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe that self-awareness and self-compassion are foundational to growth, and I strive to foster a space where individuals can gain valuable insights into themselves and their unique struggles. Through our work together, I aim to help you build practical skills, increase emotional resilience, and develop a deeper understanding of your strengths.  Whether you are facing a specific challenge or simply seeking personal growth, I am here to walk with you on your journey, offering guidance and encouragement as you build the tools necessary to thrive. I am passionate about empowering my clients to live more fulfilling, balanced lives, and I look forward to partnering with you as we work toward your goals.

Stephanie Cooke, LMHC- I’m a Mental Health Counselor dedicated to helping adolescents, young adults, and adults build healthier relationships with themselves and the world around them. I work closely with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, depending on client need and desire. I use an integrative, evidence-based approach, incorporating both Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based methodologies with a focus on identifying and transforming negative thought patterns and ineffective behaviors that contribute to low self -worth and mental health struggles. I believe in educating individuals with effective tools and techniques and empowering them to develop and incorporate internal resources and coping skills to overcome challenges

Evelyn Haughwout, L.C.S.W-R - Evelyn earned her BA in Psychology from SUNY Stony Brook and her Master’s in Social Work from Adelphi University. She has over 25 years of experience and has worked in various settings including a residential treatment facility, community residence, and outpatient mental health clinics.  Evelyn has experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She utilizes modalities such as; CBT, behavioral modification and education to help individuals manage anxiety, depression, and improve relationships.  Evelyn is compassionate and strives to make her clients feel comfortable. She provides support, guidance and encouragement so her clients can lead a more rewarding and fulfilling life.

Ann Marie Jazylo, LMHC, CASAC-M, NCC, EMDR-C - Ann Marie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and supporting families and loved ones of individuals with substance use disorders. She draws on evidence-based therapies, including EMDR, to provide effective and personalized care. Ann Marie wholeheartedly believes that people already carry the strength and solutions they need to overcome life’s challenges. She sees her role as a compassionate witness for some, and as a guide and educator for others, depending on each client’s unique needs. Grateful for the wisdom and courage she has learned from her clients over the years, she brings warmth, authenticity, and a non-judgmental presence to her work at New Beginnings and Associates in Smithtown, NY.

Lisa Catanzaro, L.C.S.W. - Lisa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strives to be supportive and provide a safe space to collaborate in helping you achieve your goals in therapy. She has worked with individuals going through life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, marital distress and empowerment issues. Using person centered, strength based, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques, she helps clients compassionately recognize and observe uncomfortable feelings and implement positive and lasting change. The relationship between herself  and clients is valued. Her therapeutic approach is warm, attentive, respectful and thoughtful.  Her goal as a therapist is to understand your personal struggles, to identify your unique strengths, and to create a foundation of healing for the most challenging areas of your life.

Tamara Crane, - M.S.W. - LP - I am a compassionate social work professional who works with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults as they navigate emotional challenges and life’s transitions. I understand that stress, loss, and change can feel overwhelming, and I meet clients where they are with empathy, patience, and respect. I support individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, PTSD, and mood-related disorders, tailoring care to each person’s unique experiences and stage of life. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, drawing from evidence-based practices while honoring each client’s voice and pace. When working with children and adolescents, I use age-appropriate, supportive techniques to help them express emotions and build healthy coping skills. With teens and adults, I focus on collaboration, insight, and practical tools that can be used beyond the therapy room. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard, supported, and understood. My goal is to help clients develop self-awareness, resilience, and confidence as they move toward meaningful and lasting change.

Lanie Terrana, L.C.S.W - Lanie has broad scope of clinical experience, including supporting clients with depression, anxiety, marital conflict, career transition, and trauma. Lanie believes that healing is best accomplished by addressing challenges through a holistic lens which includes the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of ourselves.  She helps her clients identify and process their internal and external barriers to healing and growth using CBT, trauma-informed therapy, and solutions-focused approaches. Lanie also incorporates mindfulness and strength-based modalities to encourage self-awareness and self-compassion to produce positive life changes, empowerment and overall wellness.