Justine is a dedicated, licensed social worker with 19 years of service, whose career is defined by a deep commitment to mental health advocacy and social justice. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from Hunter College, laying a strong foundation in therapeutic practices and client advocacy. Building on this expertise, Justine further expanded her professional horizons by obtaining a Law Degree from Rutgers University School of Law, a pursuit that uniquely equips her to navigate the complex intersections of mental health and legal systems.
Throughout her career, Justine has cultivated a wealth of experience across a range of challenging environments. She has worked on an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team, provided care in inpatient psychiatric units, and supported individuals in county jails and state correctional facilities. Her professional journey also includes impactful roles at public interest law firms, crisis intervention hotlines, and a private therapy practice. This diverse background has afforded her a comprehensive understanding of the behavioral health landscape and the myriad challenges her clients face, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, co-occurring disorders, and trauma.
Justine’s clinical approach is integrative and highly individualized. She designs treatment plans that are specifically tailored to meet each client’s unique needs by drawing on a broad spectrum of therapeutic techniques. Her expertise spans Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Grief Work, Insight-Oriented Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Supportive Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. Central to her practice is the application of Rogerian unconditional positive regard—a principle that ensures every client is met with empathy, respect, and an unwavering commitment to their personal values, goals, and interests.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Justine is an individual with a rich array of personal interests that inform and enhance her work. An avid student of theology, she explores spiritual perspectives that contribute to a deeper understanding of resilience and healing. Her passion for filmmaking allows her to express creativity while capturing and sharing powerful narratives about the human condition. Additionally, Justine is committed to maintaining her physical well-being through regular workouts at the gym, reflecting her belief in the importance of balancing physical health with mental wellness.
In every aspect of her work and life, Justine combines her extensive academic background, practical experience, and personal passions to offer a holistic, compassionate approach to care. Her unique blend of social work and legal expertise not only empowers her clients to overcome their challenges but also positions her as a trusted and influential advocate in both clinical and community settings.