Our Team

Meet the Team

Passionate experts in our field who have collected years of empathy, compassion, experiential treatment, education, and science-backed research to form consulting services with a therapeutic approach. Our clinicians offer personalized interventions, psychoeducational resources, and support systems for all individuals. 

Daema Pina Delgado, Psy.D

Clinical Neuropsychologist & Clinical Director

Dr. Pina Delgado earned her Psy.D in clinical psychology with a concentration in neuropsychology from Albizu University. She was the chief intern at Jackson Memorial Hospital in the Ryder Trauma Center Neurorehabilitation Unit. In 2017 she accepted a postdoctoral fellowship with the Center of Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging at the University of Miami - Miller School of Medicine.

Following residency, she accepted a full time faculty position with the University of Miami, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center as an Assistant Professor, Clinical Neuropsychologist. Dr. Pina Delgado primarily worked with cancer patients conducting neuropsychological evaluations as well as providing individual psychotherapy and cognitive remediation/rehabilitation. Dr. Pina Delgado continues to collaborate with other experts in the field conducting research on the impact of cancer treatments in minority cancer survivors

Specialties:

  • Psychological/Neuropsychological Evaluations i.e. Autism, ADHD, Bipolar, Neurodegenerative Disorder, Mood Disorders etc.
  • Disability evaluations
  • Immigration evaluations i.e. N-648
  • Health Psychology i.e. Depression and Anxiety secondary to a medical condition
  • Cognitive Remediation/Rehabilitation
  • Grief and Loss

Alexandra Esco, RMHCI

Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern

I’m Ally Esco (she/her), a passionate Licensed Registered Clinical Mental Health Intern dedicated to making a meaningful impact through counseling and connection. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Barry University and have experience working with a diverse range of mental health experiences. I am committed to working with all populations and am particularly invested in serving the LGBTQ+ community. I believe in creating a safe and warm environment where clients feel free to be their genuine selves. My approach centers on understanding how individuals’ thoughts and perceptions shape their behavior and influence their experiences, as these insights are crucial for creating meaningful change and supporting a more fulfilling life. My goal is to supportclients in navigating their personal journeys and to foster positive transformation.

Annemarie Morales, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Where do you find your heart hurts the most? When was the last time you looked in the mirror and said, I see you, I hear you, and I accept you! You’re going through a difficult time in your life. Were you recently diagnosed with a chronic illness or coping with that of a loved one? Many people face depression and anxiety when faced with these challenges. I’m Annemarie Morales, I am a Florida International University graduate with over 10 years of experience. My goal is to help radically change the way you view your mental health struggles through positive psychology and compassionate care. Healing has a ripple effect. So, let's dive in!

My therapeutic style can be described as collaborative, compassionate, nurturing, nonjudgmental, and genuine. I commonly use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction, and motivational enhancement to improve an individual’s ability to cope and adjust to life stressors.

Psychotherapy is a calm and safe space for clients to process any challenges they may bring in. I encourage a supportive and empathetic environment, empowering patients to share feelings causing them distress. In psychotherapy, we can work through the challenges that lie ahead and learn new coping skills to help you work toward a healthier you!

Brianna Pereira, M.S., RMHCI

Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern

I'm Brianna Pereira, M.S., RMHCI, a dedicated mental healthcounselor with over a decade of experience working with children and adolescents. Originally from the rich cultural concrete jungle of New York and now rooted in the vibrant community of Miami, I earned my master's degree from Barry University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My diverse background has equipped me with a deep understanding of cultural nuances and diversity, enriching my ability to provide culturally sensitive therapy. Whether you're seeking to heal from past experiences or improve current relationships, I am here to be a guiding light on your path to self-discovery.

My practice is rooted in empathy, authenticity, non-judgmental support, and gentle care-frontation, focusing on addressing trauma, anxiety, and depression. With a supportive approach, I encourage individuals to navigate their emotional trials, fostering resilience and growth. My therapeutic style is centered around cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT) and a strengths-based approach, focusing on empowering clients to harness their inner strengths and achieve lasting positive changes in their lives.

Beyond my work as a therapist, I'm deeply committed to rescuing animals in need. This isn't just a hobby; it's integral to who I am asa therapist. My experiences with animals have taught me valuable lessons in empathy, resilience, and the healing power of unconditional love. These values shape how I approach therapy, aiming to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions and journey toward shealing, much like I advocate for the well-being of animals.

I look forward to embracing your journey towards healing andgrowth as your trusted ally.

Barbara Ferrer, LMHC, BCBA

Board Certified Behavioral Analyst

Barbara Ferrer is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with years of experience in Infant Mental Health and treating children and adolescents with co-occurring disorders, involvement with the Juvenile Delinquency System, and Department of Children and Families.  Post-graduation she was hired by Florida State University (FSU) Young Parents Project where she attained vast training in the field of infant mental health through Yale University in Connecticut.

Barbara is also a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and has worked providing Behavioral Analysis therapy for over 7 years to children with developmental disabilities and behavioral concerns. She obtained her Master’s from Nova Southeastern University in Mental Health Counseling and a Master’s in Education from Arizona State University. Currently she is Co- Owner of Therapeutic Partnership providing ABA services to families and a part time clinician at Vita-Cog Community Health.

Barbara will be leading our Applied Behavior Analysis team in her role with Vita-Cog Community Health.

Specialties:

·      Infant Mental Health Counseling

·      Juvenile Delinquency/Court involved adolescents.

·      Foster care/ DCF adolescents.

·      Teen Prevention Programs

·      Applied Behavioral Analysis- (ASD, ADHD, Developmental Delays, Down Syndrome)

 

Christopher Edouard, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-BC

Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, APRN
SPECIALTY :Behavioral Health, Family Medicine

LANGUAGES: English, Spanish and Creole

Christopher Edouard is a highly skilled Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with more than 10 years of experience in the nursing field. He obtained his master’s degree from Chamberlin College in 2016 as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Prior to that, he graduated from Florida International University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2011. In 2022. he earned his post graduate certifficate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Florida Atlantic University.

Mr. Edouard previously practiced as an ARNP in Cardiology and Family Medicine. As a registered nurse since 2011, his primary focus has been in the field of cardiology, intermediary care and orthopedics. Mr. Edouard has worked for Baptist Health, Kendall Regional Medical Center and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.

Actively involved in the community, Mr. Edouard is committed to continuing to give compassionate care to all patients.

In his free time, he likes to read, exercise and spend time with his family.

Jacqueline Vazquez Soto, RCSWI

Registered Clinical Social Work Intern

I am Jacqueline, a registered clinical social work intern with over 5 years of experience in psychotherapy and accompanying people on their path to emotional and mental well-being. My experience has included working with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, adapting the therapeutic approach to each stage of life and the unique needs of each individual.

I integrate tools from cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and some holistic strategies that allow me to address a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to relational conflicts and grief. In addition to working with emotions and thoughts, I am passionate about connecting with people's souls and helping them find meaning and purpose in their experiences.

I offer various types of therapy, whether individual, family, or group, in a safe and empathetic environment where each client can feel heard, understood, and respected. My commitment is to guide you with warmth and professionalism toward emotional balance and a fuller life while strengthening your internal resources and moving toward comprehensive well-being. I am here to walk by your side in your healing process, personal growth, and connection with yourself.

Melissa Ibarra, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Melissa is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing inworking with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief, stress, self-esteem, and family issues. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques, she tailors her approach to meet clients where they are in their healing journey. Melissa has successfully supported individuals in navigating their emotional challenges, fostering resilience, and promoting positive change. By creating a safe and empathetic space, she strives to empower clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while developing effective coping strategies. Together, we can embark on a transformative path toward healing and personal growth. 

Monik Mossini, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Monik is a psychotherapist specializing in mood disorders for adolescents and adults, integrating a variety of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), solution-focused techniques, and mindfulness. She believes in an eclectic and individualized counseling approach tailored to meet each client's unique needs and achieve high-level success.

Monik empowers her clients to make meaningful decisions and changes, fostering progress and self-acceptance. She emphasizes a collaborative counseling relationship where both counselor and client work together to achieve identified objectives and goals. She draws from her diverse experience across Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and outpatient care settings to support individuals and families in enhancing emotional wellbeing and resilience.

Monik speaks English, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian.

Nikolette Machado, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Nikolette Machado is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has worked with clients with a range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, anger management, addiction, and trauma. Nikolette recognizes that each individual is unique and invites clients to come as they are. She uses Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Therapy as she works collaboratively with clients to meet their goals. Nikolette’s approach is warm, empathetic, and dedicated to the clients who she works with.

Onyinye Anyakudo, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric Nurse Practioner/Family Nurse Practitioner

Pursuing one's passion is immensely fulfilling. Healthcare has always captivated me, and there is no greater reward than aiding the sick in their recovery.

Onyinye Anyakudo, known as Onyi, is a highly knowledgeable family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience, having worked in critical care for several years. Onyi earned her Family Nurse Practitioner degree from Barry University and has served in internal medicine at a prestigious hospital and as a Nurse Practitioner for a renowned cardiology group. Additionally, she graduated from Florida International University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, a field she holds dear.

Onyi is dedicated to inclusive healthcare and disseminating information widely. Her passion for helping others extends to community volunteering, and she is an active member of the NAACP. Each day is special to Onyi, and she prioritizes her patients above all. The opportunity to continue her work, alleviating pain and fear, brings her immense joy.

Roberto Arce Rodriguez, RCSWI

Registered Social Work Intern (RCSWI)

Roberto Arce-Rodríguez, is a registered social work intern with experience in the emotional and psychological support of individuals and families. His therapeutic approach focuses on helping individuals understand and overcome emotional difficulties, providing them with practical tools to foster their personal development and well-being.

Roberto holds a master’s degree in social work from Ana G. Méndez University in South Florida, where he also trained to obtain his provisional license as a clinical social worker. In addition, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry from the Theological University of the Caribbean in Puerto Rico.

Throughout his career, Roberto has provided support to people facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their interpersonal relationships. His approach is based on empathy, active listening, and creating a safe space in which individuals can explore their emotions without judgment, thus promoting their growth and self-understanding.

Roberto has worked primarily with adolescents and young adults between the ages of 12 and 21, offering both individual and family therapy. When therapy has been family-based, he has worked with individuals of various ages, from young children to older adults. This experience has allowed Roberto to develop excellent communication with his clients and their families.

Roberto firmly believes that each person is unique and deserves personalized treatment. Therefore, he adapts his interventions taking into account the context of each individual, their particular needs, their strengths, and their areas for improvement. Roberto is passionate about understanding each person within their context to capture how they perceive and internalize what they experience.

Roberto's is bilingual. His goals remain to accompany clients in their process of self-discovery, providing strategies that allow them to live more fully and healthily. In his free time, Roberto enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and continuous learning.

It is normal, natural, and courageous to ask for help.

Vita-Cog is confident and proud of its client-centered approach and matches each of our clinicians with patients they can best help, soothe, and guide. There is no better time than the present to seize the day, honor your hurt, and look within. We would be honored to help you begin your healing process.

Insurance

We take the following insurances:
Aetna, Avmed, Blue Cross, Cigna, Evernorth, Humana, Lucet, Magellan, Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans, Meritain, Oscar, Optum, Oxford, Preferred Care Network, TRICARE, and United Health