Welcome!

I am the Founder & CEO of Chasing Serenity Psychotherapy. As a second-generation Caribbean-American psychotherapist, I believe that understanding why people suffer, how they can change, and how to assist them in living satisfying lives is an important undertaking.

I have worked as a Forensic Social Worker and Licensed Psychotherapist in a number of settings including Brooklyn Family Court, outpatient substance abuse clinics, CpEp (Psychiatric ER), Adult and Pediatric Emergency rooms, and med-surg units in the #1 hospitals across New York State. I have provided individual psychotherapy both virtually and in-person; focused on creating a welcoming atmosphere for your thoughts.

Academically, I earned my master's degree in Social Work at New York University-Silver School of Social Work, equipping me with the knowledge and skills to provide effective clinical support. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Social Welfare to produce research on the intersectionality of chronic illness and mental health.

Before embarking on my social work journey, I spent nearly a decade as a Senior Eviction Prevention Paralegal in Brooklyn Housing Court, tirelessly advocating for families’ rights before judges and court attorneys alike. In this role, I learned the power of crisis intervention, empathy, and rapport.

My preferred modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Psychotherapy. Talk therapy in addition to other interventions can allow room for reflection and transformative action. I am honored to be a vessel to assist you in that change.

In my free time, I'm an avid traveler, and I'm proud to say that I've explored all seven continents! This unique experience allowed me to gain invaluable insights and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Exploring different cultures, languages, and environments taught me the significance of patience, and open-mindedness in connecting with individuals from all walks of life.

Alena E. Aguilar, LMSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker who brings a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to mental health care. She works with adolescents, adults, and older adults navigating a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. Alena is especially passionate about supporting individuals from marginalized communities who may have experienced systemic injustice or intergenerational trauma.

Alena earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Columbia University, with a concentration in mental health, gender-based issues, and criminal justice. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Georgia State University. Her clinical background spans community-based, legal, and advocacy settings, where she has worked with clients aged 15 to 101.

She culturally identifies a Puerto Rican and hails from the South Bronx. Her approach is grounded in cultural humility, strengths-based care, and an understanding of how social and structural systems impact mental well-being. Alena has extensive experience supporting individuals living with complex trauma, mental health diagnoses, and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

In addition to her direct practice, Alena has led trainings and workshops on trauma-informed care, racial trauma, cultural responsiveness, and de-escalation skills for other clinicians and helping professionals. She is committed to creating a safe, affirming, and collaborative therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences and build pathways toward healing.

Alena is clinically supervised by Mavis Smith, LCSW, Founder & CEO of Chasing Serenity Psychotherapy.