- Explore the bios of GTR’s team of professionals and staff -
Our Executive Director Bio
Florence Saint-Jean, Ph.D., LMHC, NCC, ACS - Executive Director
Florence a.k.a Dr. Flo founded Global Trauma Research because she trusts that anyone can get through a traumatic event with the right support. She believes her purpose is to be used by God and through leadership, help people attain their goals by means of prayer, education, counseling, and support. Florence obtained a post-doctorate certificate at Harvard Medical School in Global Mental Health: Trauma & Recovery. Florence also earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Executive Counselor Education and Supervision from Duquesne University; Master of Sciences degree in Mental Health Counseling; and Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and English from the City University of New York, College of Staten Island. Florence is a National Certified Counselor and Approved Clinical Supervisor.
Florence oversees GTR’s national and international initiatives. She initiates revenue-driven programs that have a high impact on underrepresented groups. Florence has over a decade worth of experience in social services, counseling, and trauma. Florence's research specialty is treatment efficacy of post-traumatic stress in underrepresented groups, as well as incorporating alternative techniques such as play, music, art, and massage therapy in counseling. Florence's modalities are Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Psychodynamic.
Florence also uses her knowledge and experience in the classroom, and serves as an Associate Professor at CUNY Brooklyn College, and Visiting Lecturer at New York University (NYU).
For Fun: Florence loves to travel, dance kompa, and relax at home.
Our Board Bios
Phil Pierre - Chairman
Phil is a relentless advocate for social justice. Phil currently works as the Partnerships Manager for Facebook. He has also founded Next Generation Ed where he speaks around the country in an effort to eliminate the effects of the pupil to prison pipeline in schools across the country. Phil is a passionate social justice thought leader and enjoys bringing his expertise to the board of directors at GTR.
Phil has also served on the board of the New York Urban League for Young Professionals where he was the Civics and Economics Co-Chair. In that role, Phil led efforts to create economic empowerment and civic awareness to communities in New York City.
For Fun: Phil enjoys long bike rides along waterfronts to take in the view, listening to interesting podcasts, playing basketball, and reading short stories.
Rajan "Raj" Gandhi, M.B.A.
Raj was recently made Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) - the second-largest professional multinational services network firm. Raj oversees PwC’s Delivering Deal Value group based in New York, NY focused on M&A integration, divestiture management and separation, and operational due diligence. Raj also advises clients in the areas of TSAs, value capture/cost savings, operations, technology, and future state operating model design in conjunction with M&A transactions. Recently Raj assisted a global multi-billion-dollar CPG client with an acquisition.
Raj graduated with an M.B.A. from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management.
Though Raj is quite busy with his day-to-day responsibilities, he finds time to advocate for mental health disparities. Raj says that mental health is taboo in South Asian countries like India, and he and his family facilitate hard conversations within the Indian community.
For Fun: Raj loves to spend time with his partner and children.
Michelle Desir, J.D., LCSW, PhD Candidate - Member
Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a law background. She is also currently pursuing her PhD in Social Welfare at Wurzweiler School of Social Work. Michelle has over fifteen years of experience providing clinical services to youths and their families in various settings. Her legal and clinical expertise includes “on the ground” intervention supporting family reunification through strengths development, and strong advocacy for those in need. Michelle is also an Adjunct Professor at CUNY.
For Fun: Michelle enjoys spending time in the sun or with family.
Maria Angeles Bonany, JD - Vice Chairwoman
Maria is an attorney by trade, and currently the Senior Financial Advisor/Executive Director for Morgan Stanley. Marie is responsible for onboarding and servicing international ultra-high net worth clients residing in the US, the UK, and Spain. She serves as the client point person for the referral and cross-sell opportunities of financial services such as self- directed and discretionary investing, custody, banking, multi-jurisdictional estate planning, fiduciary, credit and lending solutions, philanthropy and insurance. She maintains expert-level knowledge of private banking products and services and works in conjunction with the client’s family office, investment advisors, and legal and tax advisors.
Maria has also helped build many nonprofits and foundations to move towards success. Maria’s speaks native Spanish, Catalan, and English; and has a working knowledge of French, Italian and Portuguese.
For Fun: Maria enjoys spending time with her children and returning to her home country Spain.
Jean Alerte - Treasurer
Jean is an award-winning entrepreneur with a variety of work experience in the areas of marketing, management, and sales. Along with founding his company ACA Branding Agency, he has produced comedy concerts and tours for acts such as Chris Tucker, Kevin James, Charlie Murphy, and Kevin Hart. He also serves as the Executive Director of the Unity in the Community Foundation of Brooklyn, NY where he has given out $35,000 to high school students to attend college based on his first book "Do Right, Do Good,” which turned into a successful entrepreneurial program entitled “FAITH GRIND INSPIRE."
Jean currently resides in Brooklyn with his wife and 17-month old son, with whom he opened the Brooklyn Swirl frozen yogurt shop in 2012. Alerte has been featured on National Television several times ABC 7's "Here & Now" with Sandra Bookman, BK Live and more recently NBC's TODAY Show, Black Enterprise, FOX, ARISE & ESSENCE.
For Fun: Jean enjoys listening to the likes of Jay Z and spending time with his son.
Rodney Pepe-Souvenir, Esq. - Secretary
Rodney is a highly accomplished attorney with over 20 years experience.
Rodney was recently appointed as the Commissioner for the Democratic Board of Elections in New York City. Rodney also works at the City University of NY, as the Title IV Director. She has superior interpersonal skills using sensitivity and discretion and ensures compliance with anti-discrimination and sexual harassment policy, and is fully versed on the impact of disparate treatment on people of color. Rodney is also Fluent in Haitian Creole and French.
For Fun: Rodney loves to go to church, attend community events, and listen to gospel music.
Our Team Bios
Dulande Louis, PhD, LMSW - Associate Director of Crisis Intervention & Substance Abuse
Dr. Dulande Louis is a Haitian native and highly motivated Clinical Supervisor who promotes equality and social justice for underprivileged children and youth. Similar to many Social Workers, Dulande is motivated by the health and mental well-being of her clients. However, her distinct keenness and singular professionalism are what set her apart from her counterparts. Dulande’s research interests are in literacy, immigration, as well as HIV/AIDS. With her Ph.D. at Adelphi University, Dulande hopes to enhance her skills in non-profit leadership and help her supervisees improve their therapeutic alliance. Dulande is also an Adjunct Faculty at Adelphi University and Touro College.
Dr. Dulande Louis oversees all crisis services at GTR and ensures 24-hour clinical support.
For Fun: Dulande loves to read, cook, spend time with her intelligent and creative teen daughter, and brag about her acceptance into Spelman College.
Zakiyyah Abdul-Mateen, LCSW - Clinical Coordinator & Utilization Reviewer
Zakiyyah received her Masters in Social Work at Tulane University in New Orleans, LA and her undergraduate degree from California State University, Fresno. She also received her Global Social Work (GSW) certificate while at Tulane, which allowed her the opportunity to engage in Play Therapy Practices and establish a home visitation program for an orphanage in Grand Goave, Haiti. Zakiyyah has been heavily engaged in the Haitian community.
Zakiyyah’s passion is to serve underrepresented communities and provide clinical mental health support to those of all ages. In years to come, Zakiyyah will start an organization doing local-to-global work in Haiti and various countries, focusing on Play Therapy. Quote she lives by “and when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” ― Paulo Coehlo. Zakiyyah's modalities include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Play Therapy.
For Fun: Zakiyyah loves to smile, cook, read, travel, spends time with family and friends, as well watch childhood movies.
Phadia Jean-Pierre, LMSW, SIFI, PhD Student -
Trauma Therapist & Intern/ Clinical Supervisor
Phadia is a Haitian-Creole speaking Therapist with several years of experience in social services. Phadia is currently a Ph.D. Student at Adelphi University’s Social Work program. Phadia also received an academic appointment at Yale University School of Medicine.
Phadia wants to help people change their narrative, and bring hope and empowerment. Phadia's expertise is in counseling, social services, psychoeducation, and trauma. Phadia's modalities include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
In addition, Phadia founded Heart and Purpose Inc. where she advocates for youth development through social and emotional learning. Phadia is also the co-host for Millennial Babes Podcast.
For Fun: Phadia loves to travel, write poetry, read, dance, play soccer & basketball, hike, participate in yoga, meditate, and listen to podcasts.
Gerardine "Gerri" Francois, LMSW - Trauma Therapist
A true believer of resilience and that any human being is capable of change. Licensed Master Social Worker, Gerardine a.k.a. “Gerri” is dedicated to helping individuals manage their emotions and develop healthy coping skills through client-centered modalities. Gerri earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Science and a Master of Arts in Psychology degrees from Adelphi University, as well as a Master of Social Work degree from Columbia University.
An exuberant social worker with a penchant for understanding the social-emotional development and mental health needs of clients in low-income communities, Gerri uses Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy modalities in therapy. Gerri is also able to analyze systems utilizing an anti-racist framework and examine the impact of oppression on marginalized populations. Gerri is fluent in Haitian-Creole.
For Fun: In her spare time, she enjoys learning to paint, tending to her plants, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Cathy Cadet, MS - Trauma Therapist
Cathy is a first-generation Haitian-American, who believes that mental health is important for an individual's well-being. She obtained a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Alfred University. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services at Touro College. Cathy has dedicated over 15 years to working with children in the New York City public school system. She also works to provide behavioral therapy to children with neurodivergent disorders.
Cathy hopes that after gaining experience from this internship and receiving her Master’s Degree that she can have a direct impact on the lives and well-being of her clients. Cathy’s modality is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
For Fun: Cathy loves to spend time with her children and friends. Loves to create art and go on fun adventures.
Iyanna Betaudier, LAc., LMT - Acupuncturist
Iyanna is a New York State-licensed Acupuncturist and Massage Therapist. Her sessions often combine needle therapy, other modalities of East Asian medicine, and bodywork to reconnect the body's ability to heal itself. Naturally, with massage therapy as her core foundation in the healing arts, her acupuncture practice heavily draws pain management clients. She treats pain cases stemming from muscular imbalances, overuse, spinal disc injuries, and sports injuries, integrating western neuroanatomy and Chinese medicine channel theory. However, her passion for educating women and menstruating individuals about their womb wellness and helping them to balance their reproductive hormones has been Iyanna’s concentration. She aims to help folks experience optimal and the most deserving health.
For Fun: Lauren loves cooking with her children, dancing, going to the beach, hiking, and exploring new places.
For fun: Iyanna loves to unwind and rest.
Kathy E. Clermont, MS - Trauma Therapist
Kathy Elisca Clermont is a Haitian-American trauma therapist committed to guiding individuals on their healing journey. She has a profound appreciation for diverse cultures and a keen interest in her unique experiences with trauma healing. She is fluent in both English and Haitian Creole, and specializes in assisting clients in processing trauma through art exploration, and creating a nurturing space for personal growth.
Alfonso Ferguson, PhD, LMHC, NCC - Senior Clinical Director
Dr. Alfonso Ferguson is an Afro-Caribbean immigrant who hails from Jamaica. As a culturally sensitive NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist, Alfonso prides himself on providing counseling services to underserved communities. He earned his Master of Arts in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida and Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling from Montclair State University.
Alfonso has published many manuscripts on the black mental health experience. He is strongly interested in working with LGBTQ+ Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) struggling with mood disorders and psychosocial stressors. Alfonso also owns his own psychotherapy private practice and is currently an Associate Professor at Saybrook University.
For Fun: Alfonso enjoys traveling and using his creative side in home renovations.
Sasha Tranquille, DBH, MHA - Trauma Therapist
Dr. Sasha Tranquille is a first-generation Haitian-American, fluent in Kreyòl-Ayisyen. Dr. Tranquille, also known as Dr. Sasha, believes in providing culturally competent, and empathy-based trauma-informed care. She earned her Doctorate Degree in Behavioral Health and Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis from Arizona State University after obtaining her Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from Seton Hall University. Dr. Tranquille is passionate about uplifting and restoring disenfranchised urban communities with health disparities and brings a public health perspective focused on the quadruple Aim in health care: improved patient experience of care, population health management, cost-savings, and improved healthcare team experience.
In addition, she served several years as a Children's Ministry Leader and is currently an Adjunct Faculty, for the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, at Grand Canyon University.
For Fun: Sasha likes to write poetry and perform spoken word, as well as spend time with her son and daughter.
Marjorie Vail, MS, PhD Student - Trauma Therapist
Marjorie is currently a Ph.D. student at PACE University. She holds a Master of Arts in Childhood Education from New York University, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, and a Master of Science degree in Mental Health and School Counseling from Alfred University. Marjorie has years’ worth of experience as an educator - and as much as Marjorie loved working with students, her heart truly lies in counseling and supporting women, especially women who have had a perinatal loss. After Marjorie and her husband lost a child to stillbirth, she found an organization where she could finally give back in a way that she was never able to benefit personally - PUSH for Empowered Pregnancy. Through her volunteerism at this organization and her community advocacy, Marjorie decided to pursue an Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling at Alfred University. Since then Marjorie has facilitated stillbirth, grief, and stress groups at GTR.
For Fun: Marjorie loves to hang out with her “boys” (husband and son) and travel around the world. Marjorie is also a very successful pageant winner and loves to rip the runway.
Kevin Caraballo, LMSW - Trauma Therapist
Kevin Caraballo is an Afro-Latino and prides himself on being a Brooklyn Native. Kevin believes in the power of storytelling and being authentic in every space he enters. Kevin holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from CUNY York College and a Masters of Science in Social Work from New York University. Kevin entered the field of social services because of the love he has for people in his community and believes representation is everything. He knew early on that helping others solve their problems and building human connections was something that he was passionate about. Kevin's modalities include Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Multisystemic Therapy, Social and Emotional Learning (SEL).
For Fun: Kevin enjoys traveling, exercising, listening to podcasts, and spending time with his family.
Lindsey Johnson, LMSW - Trauma Therapist
Lindsey is an educator at heart. Previously she was a high school teacher and academic counselor in the community college setting. She received a Master of Education degree from Boston College and a Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University. Both roles allowed her to understand the relationship between mental health wellness and social, educational, and economic well-being. Lindsey also realized how one's neighborhood, community, and family unit all contribute to the development of the individual.
Lindsey feels deeply connected to those who have faced historical, racial, and generational trauma. Alongside cognitive behavioral and narrative therapies, Lindsey believes somatic experiencing practices can support the exploration of trauma in the physical body. Finding a release of the trauma can be an integral part of the healing process.
For fun: Lindsey enjoys discovering and cooking soulful meals, roller-skating, and creating art through illustrating and collaging.
India Barkley, D.Ac. - Acupuncturist
In clinical practice for over 10 years, Dr. India is a compassionate, engaging and intuitive acupuncturist and educator with a strong passion to lead and educate about the healing potential of energy medicine. Offering many years of experience in educating at the graduate level about acupuncture, Chinese Medicine and Reiki, Dr. India has assisted both her patients and the greater health care profession in understanding how energy and biology can interact in order to create homeostasis in our bodies.
Dr. India Barkley received her Doctorate of Acupuncture from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, California. She is a licensed acupuncturist in the state of New York , a Reiki practitioner and Master Teacher, a former professor of Acupuncture, Oriental Sciences & Physical Arts at New York College of Health Professions for the Graduate School of Oriental Medicine and a highly skilled and intuitive practitioner of the healing arts. Dr. India is an active clinician of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine and provides integrative medicine to all of her patients.
Isabelle Valme - Administrative Manager
Isabelle has almost a decade's worth of experience in business management. She is used to overseeing face paced business operations and ensuring a seamless client process. Although GTR is slower for Isabelle, she is excited to bring her innovative insight to the organization.
Isabelle is currently earning a Master of Arts degree in Professional Education and hopes to use her knowledge to streamline outreach for GTR’s participants.
For Fun: Isabelle loves to travel, shop until she drops, and spend time with friends and family.
Roselyn Pammit, RN - Administrative Assistant
Roselyn Pammit is a Registered Nurse and is excited to join the admin team! She is best known as the “empathic nurse,” but is also the epitome of hard work; and her dedication is commendable. She adheres to all deliverables ahead of time and spearheads site-wide initiatives all while caring for an entire family. While some moms like her struggle to balance responsibilities at home and at work, she always seems to find the right balance between work and quality time with her family and friends who are a great support to keep her self-motivated and shake off stress.
Roselyn has gone through extensive healthcare training and also has years of administrative and operational experience. She is part of quality assurance and compliance - doing audits and spot-checks to ensure impeccable healthcare performance.
For Fun: Roselyn loves to spend time with her husband and children.
Our Intern Bios
Phoenyx Long
Phoenyx brings a diverse professional background with corporate business in finance, and an entrepreneurial wellness background in fitness and nutrition. With a BBA in Business and International Studies, an MA in psychology, and currently seeking to complete her internship toward her MS in Mental Health Counseling, Phoenyx’s therapeutic approaches are multifaceted. She leans into psychodynamic and systemic influences.
Phoenyx believes in the healing powers of community and supports her local mental health crisis text line, and also serves on the New York State Board for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
For fun: In her spare time, Phoenyx reads, spends time with her dogs and family, and travels.
For Fun: In her spare time, she enjoys facilitating fitness training and yoga.
Allison Gordon
Allison is a passionate native of Brooklyn with a bachelor's degree in Child Development from Howard University and working towards a Master's degree in Counseling from Alfred University. As a dedicated advocate for mental health, she founded an innovative tutoring program that seamlessly integrates social and emotional development skills with academic improvement.
Prior to this, Ms. Allison played a pivotal role in the O.B.A.M.A program, providing invaluable academic support to families temporarily housed in Brooklyn. Her unwavering commitment to urban communities has fueled her extensive involvement in various community initiatives.
For Fun: Allison enjoys exploring nature through tranquil walks with scenic water views. She also delights in the world of podcasts and loves Afrobeats' music.