A yellow and white flower among green leaves.

Virtual Psychotherapy in NYC for AAPI+ folx

Healing on your own terms

Culturally responsive AAPI therapy for Asian American clients seeking a provider who truly understands.

A smiling woman with shoulder-length black and blonde hair, wearing round glasses, a black shirt, and gold jewelry, standing against a plain light-colored wall.

Melanie Canastra, LMHC-D  (she/her)

Inherited Healing Psychotherapy PLLC

Email: mcanastra.lmhc@gmail.com

Cell: (347)541-4039

Clients often ask me where my compassion for the world comes from when the state of the world is as so, especially when feeling helpless is at an all time high. My answer is consistent when I say that my compassion comes from you.

I’m a first generation, Filipina-American woman from Bushwick, New York. Trust me when I tell you that I completely understand the dichotomies of experiencing both the wonders and yet absolute displacement that comes from living in a bicultural, immigrant-led household.

As I navigate my work with fellow QT+AAPI folx in therapy, I’ve found that the collective experience of connection and healing is transformative. Not just seen through the tangible skills that therapy naturally brings, but also through a relational and warm space that we will build together. My hopes in working together is that our space will help you discover and experience new paths in feeling more authentically connected with others and with yourself.

My compassion comes from not just helping you, but also by witnessing your growth as your own person reclaiming your identity on your own terms. In my lived experience, both professional and personal, this has been the most cherished part of my work. I’d be honored to also help you experience the same sense of fulfillment and community as a fellow AAPI in your community.

Learned helplessness surrounding identity is a familiar experience. Therapy has been my start of a collection of new, emotional experiences that enabled new beginnings for myself. I’d be privileged to work with you on starting your new beginning as well.

Education/Trainings

  • Master’s in Applied Behavioral Science (St. Francis College)

  • CAS in Mental Health Counseling (Alfred University)

  • Licensed Mental Health Counselor - Diagnostic Privilege (LMHC-D) in New York State

  • AEDP Full Immersion Training (Level I)

  • EMDR-M Basic Training

  • Cultural Competency for Behavioral Health Professionals Certification

  • CCTP-I (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional - Level I/Complex Trauma)

Meet the founder of Inherited Healing Psychotherapy

I’m Melanie (she/her), LMHC-D


Breaking cycles starts here!

Here’s a brief introduction about me and how we can do this work together.

Let’s reduce stigma together

QT+AAPI communities are deserving of restoration and healing