Introducing TALA Mental Health

We’re so excited to share this new journey with you all as Tala Mental Health! Here at Tala, we’ve handpicked clinicians that practice in alignment to our core values and mission. Meet our team!

Elaine Raif, ASW

She/Her/Hers

My personal values include inclusivity, authenticity, and compassion. I often say I work in the nexus between healing, art, and social justice. I believe that healing is creative as it asks us to lean into possibility. If we are curious enough, there’s so much to discover within us. I’m motivated by the transformative change that has the power to propel us into our best selves. 

My practice aligns with Tala, the goddess of stars, because I walk with my clients through their unique journeys at their own pace. I aim to empower them to be reflective, intentional and trusting of their path. 

After sessions, I want my clients to feel understood, celebrated and empowered.

Noemi Alsup, LCSW

She/Her/Ella

My practice and beliefs align with the Social Worker’s core ethical principles of service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, the importance of human relationships, integrity and competence. I am motivated by my knowledge, experiences and beliefs that we are all worthy and capable of healing and wholeness. 

I am hopeful person and hope is what helps me and guides me in my practice. I can hold space and guide clients in the therapeutic journey, searching for the light together. 

After sessions, I want my clients to feel seen and heard after each session. 

Jessica Guillen, LCSW 

She/Her/Hers

My undergrad degree was in sociology and when I approach my work now, I rely heavily on the theory of how society affects us. In my practice I factor in all those elements when working with Clients they are not just a lone being, but it matters where they grew up, the culture, and so many other factors. I believe in connection with others. I believe that the relationship in the therapeutic room is so important. The rapport with the Client is half the healing. I believe in being authentic in the room. The Clients get the true me. I am motivated to support others in their healing. I am motivated by the idea that I want the best for people and that good, healthy people make the world a better place for me and others. 

I see my role and my work as an opportunity to be a guide to others. I see it as another tool for them to light the way when things seem their darkness. I hold unconditional positive regard for my clients and that can be just enough light for them to traverse the most difficult journeys. I do not steer the Client however offer an opportunity to see what is in front of them so that they can make the choices and changes they believe is right for them. 

After sessions, I want my clients to feel held and heard. I want them to feel as if they matter and they are good. I want them to know that someone cares about them, their well being, and thier impact on this world. I want them to feel as if they matter.

Kristiana Guzman, LMFT

She/her/hers 

I value honesty, authentic connections, humor, and embracing the “messiness” that makes us human. I strive to uphold these principles in my work. I am truly inspired by the unique journeys and perspectives of the clients I work with, they continuously motivate me.

Being a therapist allows me to support and guide clients through their most challenging moments. I hope to empower them to overcome the obstacles they face and build resilience. In turn, my clients teach me vital lessons, and I truly believe that a therapeutic relationship where I grow alongside them enriches my role as a therapist.

I hope my clients leave with greater clarity, a stronger sense of direction, and a deeper understanding of their own worth.

Olufunmike Salami, ASW 

She/Her/hers

I believe in the importance of having a growth mindset. I try my best to offer a safe space that is filled with compassion, love, and keeping it real. What motivates me is being able help my community flourish, one soul at a time. 

One thing I know is that life can be hard! Everyone is deserving of love and empathy during those times. I strive to help my clients see that glimmer of hope and find that silver lining. 

After sessions, I want my clients to feel empowered and loved.

Porschia Coleman, ASW 

She/her/hers

I value community, empowerment, equity, authenticity, compassion, connection, communication, cultural humility, curiosity, and empathy.

By focusing on client-empowerment, meeting your client where they are at, gentle challenging, sometimes sitting with them in it and then also holding onto hope/silver linings. Also, I would say the relational aspect is extremely important and connecting with clients on a human level. Letting them know that they are not alone in it. 

After sessions, I want my clients to feel validated, empowered, seen, hopeful, and motivated. 

Junie Abito, LMFT 

She/her/hers

My practice is deeply rooted in three core values: authenticity, empowerment, and courage. I believe in creating a space where people can show up as their true selves, without judgment or pretense. What drives me deeply is the profound belief that no one should have to face life’s challenges alone. I’ve witnessed the transformative power of community and proper support – how it can turn seemingly insurmountable obstacles into stepping stones for growth. There’s something truly remarkable about seeing people discover that they’re stronger than they ever imagined, especially when they’re supported by a caring community.

This powerful symbol Tala tells us that even in our most challenging times, there is always light to guide us forward. Just as the stars have guided travelers throughout history, I aim to provide that steady, unwavering support for those seeking direction and hope. The symbolism of Tala reminds me that our role isn’t to be the sun – overwhelming in our brightness – but rather to be like stars: consistent, gentle sources of light that help others find their way. This approach honors both the gravity of our work and the autonomy of those we serve, creating a practice that truly illuminates rather than directs. Like Tala’s stars, effective practice requires balance – being bright enough to guide but not so bright as to blind, being present but not overwhelming, and recognizing that we are part of a larger constellation of support in our clients’ lives–in community.

After sessions, I want my clients to feel empowered, clarity about their journey, courageous and belonging.

This is just a brief introduction to our team of clinicians, and we have so much more to share! Stay connected with us via social media and our newsletter to continue to learn, engage and be in community with us.