Therapists

Kimarie Knowles,
LCSW-R

(she / her / hers)

I believe that even in the most difficult times of life, people have an amazing capacity to grow, learn, connect, love, and find meaning and purpose. This can be balanced with the more uncomfortable feelings that come along with illness, survivorship, loss, caregiving and change. I offer a non-judgemental and empathic therapeutic space where we will work together to find this balance.

  • I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I have worked in the field of psycho-oncology and mental health for over 16 years and have extensive clinical understanding of the needs of patients and caregivers throughout the disease continuum, from initial diagnosis, through treatment, to end of life, survivorship, recurrence, chronic illness, bereavement and life transitions.

    I completed advanced training programs in cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, group psychotherapy, complicated grief therapy, and meaning-centered psychotherapy. I have published academic papers and presented on topics such as coping with chronic cancer, survivor guilt, fear of cancer recurrence, dating after treatment, and grief, loss and bereavement. 

    In addition to my therapy practice, I have taught courses in the MSW (Masters in Social Work) programs at Fordham University and New York University.

Tashi Ridley,
LCSW

(she / her / hers)

Therapy can help you to harness your strengths and develop additional skills to cope with illness and change. At a time when you might feel disoriented, stuck or uncertain about how to move forward, I work with you to explore any potential barriers and identify pathways for growth. To facilitate your navigation, I strive to create an environment that feels safe and free from judgment, where you can feel seen and heard. 

  • I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut and honed my skills while working with patients, families and caregivers grappling with cancer and other medical issues. With experience in a variety of settings from private practice to hospitals and palliative care centers, I am adept at supporting individuals, couples, families and health care providers on the issues that arise over the trajectory of illness.

    I have experience with a wide range of approaches and completed advanced training in couples and family therapy, clinical assessment and diagnosis, trauma-informed clinical practice, palliative care, and complicated grief therapy. My publication and presentation areas include coping with chronic cancer, supporting patients and families in intensive care units, providing psychosocial assistance for terminally ill patients and their families, and the impact of beliefs and expectations at end of life. 

Adina Heckelman,
LCSW, MPH

(she / her / hers)

Individuals who are coping with illness can benefit from a space to share how these experiences impact them. I aim to provide that space. Working together, we can clarify your thoughts and feelings, gaining insight and greater self-compassion. I strive to support individuals and families as they navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and the long-term impact of these medical experiences. 

  • I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York with over five years of experience in oncology social work. My background includes both inpatient hospital settings and outpatient clinics, where I support patients and their families along the disease continuum. I also specialize in bereavement and grief counseling, helping individuals process loss and navigate the complex emotions they may face. 

    I utilize a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy, tailoring my approach to each client’s unique needs. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgemental space to help individuals explore what may come up when faced with profound life changes and develop practical strategies to help navigate them.

    In addition to my work as a therapist, I completed my Masters in Public Health and have conducted research and assisted in publications on anxiety disorders and global mental health.