Johanna Denski
Is a bilingual, Licensed Marriage, and Family Therapist (LMFT) characterized by a strong commitment to detail-oriented counseling services. She earned her Master of Science in Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from SUNY Old Westbury University.
In her current role as President, Therapist, and Consultant at Vida Counseling Group in Coral Gables, FL, Johanna conducts individual and family therapy sessions, specializing in marital problems, children's behavioral issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life coaching, and work performance. She received her certification from the Gottman Institute for treatment methods to help work with couples. Currently, she oversees the Behavior therapy program at Vida Counseling Group providing services to children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other conditions requiring behavior interventions. Johanna's responsibilities extend to collaborating with community agencies for mental health, case management, professional development, and applied behavior analysis services. She also plays a key role in administrative tasks and oversight of the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) department, ensuring compliance with insurance requirements, and HR requirements including but not limited to handling financial duties, including payroll, tax reporting, budgeting, billing, and bookkeeping.
In her previous position as a Behavior Analyst at MHB Consultants in Doral, FL, Johanna provided direct ABA therapy to children with Autism and other developmental disorders. Her role included offering training to parents, teachers, and staff on the principles of ABA and behavior modification, as well as conducting and administering assessments, developing individualized behavior plans, and monitoring client progress toward goals.
Johanna served as the Admission/Intake Coordinator at D&D Psych, Inc. in Miami, FL, where she assessed, diagnosed, and recommended therapeutic services for new patients. In the role of Outpatient Therapist at The Starting Place in Plantation, FL, she conducted in-home-based therapy for individuals and families associated with substance abuse and/or co-occurring mood disorders.
Earlier in her career, Johanna held the position of MST Bilingual Therapist at Children's Village in New York, NY. In this role, she provided home-based individual and family therapy following the Multisystemic Therapy (MST) discipline to families referred by the Administration of Children Services. She actively participated in weekly team meetings, collaborated with multiple systems affecting family functioning, and ensured compliance with ACS guidelines and systems.
As an MFT Intern at Memorial Regional Hospital in Pembroke Pines, FL, Johanna was responsible for conducting individual, group, and family therapy for an adolescent day treatment program specializing in substance abuse and mental health disorders. She collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to address patient needs, assisted with discharge planning, and connected patients with community-based service agencies.
Johanna's career also includes serving as a Dependency Case Manager at Children's Home Society in Delray Beach, FL. In this role, she conducted assessments, treatment plans, and referrals, prioritized caseload responsibilities, and provided support to children, caregivers, and family members to ensure stable placement and timely achievement of permanency.
In addition to her clinical experience, Johanna is bilingual in English and Spanish and proficient in Microsoft Office and QuickBooks.
Grisel Cartas
Stands as a distinguished professional with a comprehensive skill set and extensive experience at the intersection of behavior analysis, social work, and education. Holding notable credentials such as Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA 1-21-54688) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (SW 11235), Grisel's educational foundation includes a Master's in Exceptional Students Education and a Master's in Social Work. She also excels as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Qualified Supervisor, Certified Case Manager Supervisor, Infant Mental Health Certification holder, and Registered Childbirth Educator.
Grisel's current role as the Clinical Director, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Therapist, Social Worker, Certified Case Manager Supervisor, and Vice President at Vida Counseling Group, LLC since September 2013 showcases her leadership and expertise. In this multifaceted position, Grisel not only conducts assessments and provides counseling across diverse age groups but also collaborates with a clinical team to refine therapeutic models and ensure the delivery of evidence-based ABA services. Her responsibilities extend to the development of individualized goals and objectives, as well as overseeing the Quality and Performance Improvement Plan.
During her tenure as the Lead Behavior Analyst at MHB Consultants, Inc. from September 2015 to April 2018, Grisel played a pivotal role in elevating evidence-based ABA services. Her leadership extended to designing behavior support plans, implementing effective behavioral data systems, and ensuring the continual evaluation of behavior plans. Grisel's commitment to program integrity and evaluation of program managers attests to her dedication to maintaining high standards of service.
Grisel's impact extends to her role as the Family Engagement Supervisor-Mental Health for the Early Head Start – Child Care Partnership at United Way of Miami Dade. In this capacity, she supervised Family Engagement Specialists, supported outreach and enrollment efforts, and intervened as a mental health licensed specialist assessing children facing diverse developmental challenges. Including behavior problems.
Her educational journey includes a Master's in Social Work from Barry University and a Master’s in Exceptional Students Education from Albizu University. The completion of both Master’s is an example of her commitment to academic excellence. Grisel's pursuit of ongoing professional development is evidenced by her completion of certification in ABA Spain-International Master Program for Applied Behavior Analysis and various other training programs. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Grisel Cartas is not just a professional with impressive credentials; she is a dedicated and compassionate leader making a significant impact in her field. References attesting to her exemplary work and contributions are readily available upon request.
