Community and School Therapy (CAST) Team
Ariel Gonzalez, M.S.
Ariel Gonzalez, M.S., is a resident in counseling and Spanish Language interpreter who assists the intake coordinators with Spanish to English and English to Spanish translations. She also assists clients with psycho-education about counseling and helping them with the intake process. Ariel is a graduate of Walden University in 2024, and a former intern at THLC working in the out-patient and CAST program
Contact: Ariel@heartleafcenter.org
Rohini Aadipudi
Rohini Aadipudi is a graduate student obtaining her master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Mason University. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Virginia Tech in 2022. She brings three years of hands-on experience as a Behavioral Therapist providing one-on-one Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy for children with autism and other developmental challenges. Collaboratively, she worked to design and implement tailored strategies aimed at promoting functional independence and enhancing their overall quality of life.
With a strong interest and dedication to working with children, Rohini firmly believes in the significance of early intervention in enabling individuals to lead secure, fulfilling lives despite adversities. Her passion lies in supporting youth and their families through this crucial journey.
She actively addresses and engages in discussions surrounding racial, cultural, and societal issues pertinent to her clients, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. She advocates for counseling with a multicultural perspective, emphasizing the importance of equitable access to quality mental and physical healthcare for all. Committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and empathetic therapeutic environment, Rohini prioritizes the well-being and growth of her clients.
Makeez Qaderi
Makeez is a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at George Mason University. She holds an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor of Individualized Study (BIS) degree in Social Work and Psychology. Makeez was born and raised in Virginia and brings her unique set of lived experiences as a daughter of Afghan refugees. Makeez’s populations of interest include children and families, adolescents, young adults, refugees, and immigrants of all ages. She uses person-centered and cognitive behavioral therapeutic approaches. Additionally, Makeez enjoys integrating expressive and creative arts counseling interventions.
Makeez strives to create an inclusive, safe, warm, and welcoming environment so that the client feels comfortable sharing their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Makeez’s goal as a counseling intern is to foster a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and to make sure her clients feel respected, heard, understood, validated, and comfortable. She believes it is vital for a counselor to treat their clients with dignity and respect. Additionally, she is passionate about strengthening her client’s voices through advocacy.
In her free time, Makeez values spending time with family and close friends and learning about various other countries’ cultures. She enjoys traveling, learning languages, nature, mindfulness, music, poetry, reading, and advocating for topics she is passionate about.
Contact: info@heartleafcenter.org, 703-397-8163