Alyssa McFarlane
LSW, CYT-200, RP

I am an African American, master’s level clinician who strives to promote holistic well-being through mindfulness and somatic connection.  As a New Jersey native, I obtained my Bachelors of Science in Public Health from William Paterson University. After spending some time working in the community, I went to further my education by obtaining my Masters in Public Health from the University of New England. While working in the public health field I gained experience with a number of populations with different health focuses including maternal and child health, child development, mental health, sexual health, and substance use. Throughout this time, I held various roles including Community Health Worker, Program Coordinator, Health Educator, Program Specialist and Technical Assistant.    

  

Although this work was impactful, I felt drawn to provide support and services in a more direct and personal way. After working in public health for 7 years, I made the decision to transition to social work and obtained my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University with an Addictions Certificate Training. At the present time, my work is  comprised of supporting people through mental health crises as well as providing outpatient psychotherapy. Aside from my academic studies, I also pursued training to become a certified yoga teacher, meditation teacher, and Level II Reiki practitioner. In addition, I have received education to be able to support individuals as a childbirth and death doula.

 

By joining both eastern healing and traditional therapy modalities, I feel confident in my ability to provide services in a more holistic, authentic, and empathetic way. I am passionate about developing trusting therapeutic relationships and encouraging clients to incorporate body movement in their everyday lives. The foundation of all my work is incorporating honesty, authenticity, empathy, humor, and my lived experiences when working with clients.