About Us
We’re a team of therapists whose passion is to help you!
We're here to help you become the BADASS we know you are!
Our Mission
We are a badass women empowering, client elevating, health and fitness driven, NYC based therapy practice, with the goal of providing a space for clients to understand and take steps to become the BADASSES they were meant to be…PERIODT!
I’M DR. MEL!
Melissa Robinson-Brown, PhD
Licensed in NY & NJ; PsyPact (over 40 different states for telehealth)
Founder & Executive Director
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Hi! I’m Dr. Melissa Robinson-Brown. Probably feels like a mouthful right?!?! Most people call me Dr. Mel for short. If you’ve stumbled upon this, you’re likely flirting with the idea of therapy, and girl, I’m here for it.
So let’s figure out if we would be a good fit!
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 21 years of experience, I’m your ride-or-die on this journey to empowerment and self-discovery. I specialize in helping women let go of those outdated archaic life templates and restrictions, unleash their authentic selves and navigate life’s rollercoaster with badass confidence. Whether you’re battling low self-esteem, that damn low mood that just won’t go away, navigating tough life transitions, or just feeling stuck – together, we’re going to kick those barriers to the curb.
Backed by over 22 years of experience, I know that building a trusting bond with my clients is the starting point for a successful therapy journey. I show you how mindfulness, shifting certain behaviors, skills enhancement, and a solid dose of self-love can bring a fresh perspective to your life. Together, we’ll carve out a life where you feel secure, self-assured, and like a total BADASS! And we’ll get you UNSTUCK cause I know a lot of you are feeling that at this point in your life.
My approach is all about holistic healing – connecting your mind and body, sprinkled with warmth, accountability, a quirky twist of fun, and some challenging. You gon work when we get together 🙂. Think of me as your empowerment coach and self-love liason, guiding you through the fog. We’ll create a judgement-free, culturally sensitive, deeply accepting zone where you can truly unwind and focus on blossoming into your most empowered, fearless self.
So what’s in it for you?
Get ready to feel powerful and embrace your unique self! Self-discovery isn’t a walk in the park, and I can vouch for that. Navigating through challenges of work-life balance, motherhood, leadership, discrimination, and even big career changes, I’ve had my share of uneasy feelings, fear of missing out, and questions, loads of them!
Ready to embrace your power and live boldly? Let’s peel back those covers that I know you’ve been hiding under and step into some fresh air and freedom! Think better mood, less anxiety, a more assertive approach to career, an ability to take audacious risks, actually make decisions in spaces where you’ve felt stuck, enhanced parent-child relationships, boosted self-esteem, fewer self-harming behaviors, and improved relationships with everyone around you. Let’s get this journey started – YOU IN?
For those who are interested, here’s a quick overview of my background/experience
- Licensed clinical psychologist in New York and New Jersey.
- PsyPact; authorized to do telehealth in over 40 states
- Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, with a child and family subspecialty, from Loyola University in Chicago.
- I’ve worked at several major hospitals in NYC, including Bellevue, NYU, New York Presbyterian/Columbia, and Mount Sinai.
- While at Mount Sinai, I was the co-director of the Psychology Training Program from 2014-2017, which included our APA Accredited Pre-Doctoral Internship Program. I also founded and led the Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program
- Completed 2-week intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC) trained
- Assistant Clinical Professor at Mount Sinai and maintain a supervisory role in the Psychology Training Program.
- Adjunct Professor, NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
I’m a fitness, health, and wellness enthusiast! I love using and incorporating mindfulness in my personal life and with my clients.
I’m a mom of 3 girls and I strive to be engaged with my kids while also teaching them about independence, strength, and vulnerability. It’s not always easy, and I’m sure there have been many fails, but it’s a TON of fun!
I enjoy outdoor sports and like taking on different sports related physical challenges (think Tough Mudder and City Challenges). On a sunny day (or sometimes a rainy one too), you will either find me running while getting lost in a soul bumping playlist or outside having a great meal while getting lost in a good book!
I’M TIFFANIE
Tiffanie Brown, LCSW-R
Licensed in NY & NJ
Clinical Director
Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Registered
Hey! My name is Tiffanie Brown. I’m pretty excited for you because you showed up today which lets me know you are ready. Be proud of yourself for taking this first step; looking for the right therapist.
I hope your second step is to make a commitment to yourself so that we can do this work together.
I believe you arrived here because you are making such an important decision in your life. That YOU are ready to get YOU together. My approach is to create a safe space for you to say I am not okay. And as women of color, we don’t hear that enough. I will highlight two things; that it is okay to not be okay AND the work we will do together will help get you back to a place that feels good because you are healing. With that comes teaching you how to be honest with yourself, identifying and unpacking the “why” and giving you the tools so that you feel empowered to live and be your healthiest self.
I have expertise in working with individuals who struggle with mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal relational challenges. With a commitment to cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, I enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality. My approach is tailored to each individual’s specific needs and preferences, with a focus on evidence-based therapies and trauma-informed approaches.
For those who are interested, here’s a quick overview of my background/experience
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Registered in New York.
- Post Masters in Adolescent and Families at NYU
- Masters of Social Work (with a focus on individual and family) at Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Adelphi University
- Training in EMDR for Trauma with Adolescents and Adults
- Intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC) trained
When I am not traveling, I am spending time with my family and affectionate dog, Whisky.
I’M MELANIE
Melanie Gibbons, LAC
Licensed in NY & NJ
Staff Psychotherapist
Licensed Associate Counselor
Hey! I’m Melanie. I’m so happy you are here! I am full of energy (after coffee, of course) and love to laugh. I can be a ball of fun, but we are gonna get stuff done. If you are reading this, maybe there is a part of you that is thinking it is time to change things up a bit in order for you to live the life you deserve?
If that is the case, should we do this thing?! Let’s find out!
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor. But I like to think of myself as a game-changing guru. When a woman takes the chance to bet on herself, the game changes. I empower women to tap into their inner strength and teach the skills necessary to proceed forward with radical self-acceptance. Come exactly as you are. You are welcome here!
Therapy is for everyone and can benefit all people. Effective therapy is a two-way street where both parties agree on a mutual goal. I am not the expert of your life, nor will I claim to know what is best for you. I guide my clients in the use of coping skills, mindfulness strategies, and behavioral techniques. Long story short, I help clients find their light. This light may have been dimmed by trauma, low self-esteem, childhood wounds, stress, depression, anxiety, or relational hurts.
Our work together will help you find your voice and re-ignite your light. I am not saying that this work will be easy. Many times, you will be faced with the darkest parts of yourself; the parts you have hidden from the world. Though facing these parts will be challenging, you will not be alone. I will be your guide back to yourself, connecting your mind, body, and spirit. With that connection, you will feel empowered to reach any goal you set for yourself, with the proper tools and direction. I consider myself to have a witty yet compassionate sense of humor, creating an authentic and safe therapeutic space.
We gonna keep it real boo!
I have expertise in working with couples and family therapy, relational issues and dysfunction, life transitions, and the healing that comes with post traumatic growth. My badass superpower is my ability to hear what is NOT being said. I strive to create relationships that are non-judgmental and culturally sensitive. I believe that you already have what you need to make the changes you deem necessary. I am simply here to help you bring those things to the surface.
For those who are interested, here’s a quick overview of my background/experience
Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey & New York
- Member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) since 2017; training small and large groups across the country.
- Expert in Motivational Interviewing (MI) and behavior change
- Managed supervisors and trained clinicians in the areas of advanced age and illness, and grief and loss. While in this role, I created a supervisory coaching program and used metrics to enhance the learning of clinicians working with clients focused on behavior change.
- Consultant with the Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disabilities to increase the diversity of the social work and counseling graduates entering into the behavioral workforce
Adjunct professor at Peirce College in Philadelphia
I am a sports and music enthusiast. Watching professional sports in person or going to a live concert fills my soul with joy.
I played Division 1 basketball in college and am always seeking out new ways to test my athleticism. About 2 years ago, I challenged myself to run at least one mile for 365 days straight. It was one of the greatest accomplishments of my lifetime and I would never do it again.
This year, I am hoping to complete a Tough Mudder race with my partner. I am lucky to be the mom of a 4 year old girl. Even though she already has the sass of a 14 year old, I encourage her to remain strong willed and secure in who she is.
I’M JILL
Jillian Berridge, LMSW
Licensed in NY
Staff Psychotherapist
Licensed Master Social Worker
Hey there! I’m Jillian, but please call me Jill. (Jillian always reminds me of when my mom would use my full govt’ name cause I was in trouble…but I digress). I’m really glad you found your way here. I know it takes a lot of courage to put yourself first, so shoutout to you for taking this step!
So let’s find out if we’re a good fit!
Life can throw some heavy stuff our way, and it’s not always easy to navigate it alone. That’s where I come in. As a Licensed Master Social Worker, my passion lies in helping folks like you discover their inner strength and show themselves some much-deserved kindness.
Do you constantly find yourself people pleasing and struggling to say no? We’ll explore what keeps you in that dynamic, improve your self-esteem and help you become a boundary-setting pro. Are you overwhelmed by anxious thoughts that make it hard to be in the moment or focus on what really matters to you? We’ll work together to better understand the root of your fears, and empower you with tools to help you regain a sense of control. Maybe you have a difficult experience you went through, that you’ve always kind of swept under the rug. Let’s create room to explore what it meant to you, and how the emotional pain shows up in your body.
I’ve got experience working with all sorts of challenges, from anxiety and depression to struggles with self-esteem and relationships. We don’t exist in isolation, and our problems don’t either. So, I’m not afraid to name how your symptoms are impacted by systems such as capitalism, racism and sexism. Your story matters, and I’m here to listen, respect, and empower you on your unique journey.
I believe that self-care can be face masks and candles but it’s also about committing to your personal growth and healing. Let’s be real -this work is not always easy or pretty, but it can be deeply transformational, and I’ll be alongside you every step of the way. I got you!
With a warm and supportive approach, my job is to create a space where you feel safe and comfortable to be honest and vulnerable. I’m intentional about identifying and giving you credit for your many strengths, and will tirelessly encourage you to do the same for yourself. I’ll help you dive deep into your experiences, recognize what’s holding you back, and craft a plan that’s all about you. I’ll also be lovingly honest with you and hold you accountable. I love working within the sweet spot of a good validation to challenge ratio.
So, if this sounds like the kind of support you’re looking for, I’m here and excited to help you become the most authentic version of yourself.
For those who are interested, here’s a quick overview of my background/experience
- Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Hunter College
- Master of Social Work – Clinical focus with individuals, families and groups from Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College
- Licensed Master Social Worker – Registered in New York
- Current -Post Masters in Integrative Trauma Program at National Institute for Psychotherapies (NIP)
I am a huge plant mom, yoga and pilates lover, and have always had a love for creative arts including drawing, collaging, and interior design since childhood – yes, I was that kid watching HGTV.
I also love going thrifting – I get a thrill out of a good deal! In my free time you will find me spending time with family and friends, eating good food, in a plant store or hanging out at a park when the weather is nice.
