Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Melville, NY covered by United Healthcare

I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I attended New York University for both undergraduate and graduate training, and serve as adjunct faculty at NYU's college of nursing.

Life doesn't always go as planned. Sometimes illness, loss, or an unexpected transition can leave you feeling like a stranger to yourself. These experiences are more common than they appear, especially when you're someone who looks like they're holding it together on the outside while quietly carrying something heavy within. You don't have to carry it alone.

Have you experienced past or present trauma that may be hindering your personal growth and getting in the way of your goals? We all have struggled in dealing with painful situations, but we no longer have to struggle alone.

As the saying goes, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" - Lao Tzu. Let me help you take that first step towards becoming a better you!

I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, relationship issues and bereavement utilizing the following therapeutic approaches such as psycho-dynamic therapy, insight oriented therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused therapy modalities, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and grievance therapy.

Contact me today for a free 15 minute consultation.

La consulta puede ser en español.

As an Asian immigrant from Taiwan, I understand firsthand the pressures of balancing cultural expectations with life in the U.S.—like feeling torn between family obligations and personal goals, navigating identity in different cultural spaces, or struggling to express emotions that may not feel “acceptable” in your community. These experiences inform my work with clients who feel stuck, anxious, or disconnected, especially when patterns from the past show up in relationships, work, or life transitions. With years of experience in private practice and community clinics in NYC, I create a compassionate, culturally attuned space for young adults, professionals, and anyone seeking to better understand themselves, explore their emotions, and build clarity, confidence, and resilience.

EMPATHIC CARE that adapts to your FEELINGS...Built around your needs and lived experience. Using evidence-based medicine and clinical judgment. If you don't see a time that works for you on my schedule, please send me a message and I'll do my best to accommodate your availability.

Hello! My name is Lauren Donato. I have been a mental health counselor for 18 years. Since I was a young girl I knew I wanted to help people, especially people who required advocacy. This led me to start my career working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I have worked in group home and clinic settings for over 15 years. My personal experiences also started me on a professional journey providing reproductive counseling for people who are struggling with infertility. I also have a focus on working with people who experienced trauma and those struggling with anxiety and depression. My approach to treatment is client centered. When working with me you should expect to go at your own pace and to have a say in the techniques we use. We will work towards a common goal of you living your best life. I draw upon CBT, DBT, trauma focused, ABA, and mindfulness techniques. I like to think of therapy as the gym for your mind, so you will need to do some work in order to see results. I am happy to provide you with motivation and support during your workout!

In learning about one’s personal strengths I utilize that information to assist in the healing process exploring what you would like to see different in your life and explore options in our journey together. I assist individuals to find new ways to cope, function and learn to let go of behaviors that are no longer serving their best interests.

I work hard to ensure that my client feels safe as they embark on their therapeutic journey. In order to best facilitate healing, I firmly believe in providing a comfortable and supportive space for my clients. My goal is to come alongside the client and provide different perspectives that may not have been considered before and provide encouragement in the everyday victories.

My passion is to help others achieve wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. I currently work both inpatient and outpatient facilities within New York City. I specialize in the diagnoses and treatment of adults with a range of mental health issues.

I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, individual psychotherapy and medication management for adults. My goal is to explore each of my patient's situations and issues judiciously before arriving at appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.

My patients often say that I am approachable, personable, and respond quickly to emails/phone calls. I am accepting new patients.