About Tara Balin, LMSW
Tara Balin is an associate therapist at Brightline’s Brooklyn clinic, providing care under the supervision of Sylvia Ryszewska, PhD. Her background includes work with new parents, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. Tara has worked with people from early childhood to older adulthood, along with their families, in school, hospital, and outpatient mental health settings. She’s worked with both individuals and groups to support those experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Tara’s deep interest in creating space for healing and supporting others to face challenges and reach their personal and emotional goals are what inspired her to become a therapist. Her hope is to create an environment where people feel heard, understood, and supported.
Tara believes every family is unique. She is passionate about creatively incorporating evidence-based and scientifically proven treatment to fit the individual needs of each child and family.
Professional Summary
Education:
Master of Social Work (MSW), Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College
Bachelor of Art in Psychology (BA), St. John's University
Therapeutic approaches and certification(s): Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), parent management training (PMT), motivational interviewing (MI), mindfulness
License Type(s): Licensed Master Social Worker
States where clinician is licensed: New York (127789)
Experience:
Mental Health Coach, Prospera Mental Health & Wellness
Training:
Social Work Intern, Queensborough Community College
Social Work Intern, Northwell Health
Supervisor: Sylvia Ryszewska, PhD
Meet our Brooklyn clinical providers
Tara Balin, LMSW
“What excites me most is being able to sit with kids and families through the highs and the lows of life, to foster and witness growth, healing, and change.”
Stephanie Eichler, LMSW
“ I am passionate about helping clients lead fulfilling lives, empowering them to discover their inner strengths and overcome challenges.”
Sierra Freeman, LMSW
“I’m continually inspired by the resilience of the kids and families I serve. I strive to blend warmth, empathy, and evidence-based structure so every child feels supported, understood, and equipped with skills that will carry them forward."
Gina Foster, LMSW
“I’m inspired by the resilience kids and families develop and show throughout the therapeutic process. I find it energizing to support people as they grow in confidence and self-understanding during their formative years.”
Stephen Fox, PsyD
“What I love the most about this field is working with kids and teens and seeing them meet their goals, connect with their peers, and thrive in their individual settings."
Bria Leyden, LMHC-D, LPC
"I am passionate about supporting kids and teens as well as collaborating with parents to support their families."
Edward Merritt, PhD
“What excites me most about the field is being able to connect therapeutic skills to the interests or passions of my clients. It is very motivating when I see something that we have been working on finally click with a child.”
Sylvia Ryszewska, PhD
"I am most passionate about providing early intervention care as it can and does change the lives and trajectory of kids and families."
Nikki Vega, LCSW
"I’m passionate about helping families strengthen connection while building skills that support their child's confidence and independence."
Sarah Wallin, LMHC-D
"Being able to provide a space where kids can express themselves openly, discover their strengths, and build skills that foster resilience is what inspires me every day."
Madelyn Williams, LMSW
“I’m passionate about giving kids tools they can carry throughout their lives, and I’m continually motivated by the courage youth and parents show each time they show up, share openly, and take steps toward greater confidence and connection.”
Charlie Xiao, PMHNP
“I am passionate about making a positive impact on each child's life and helping them overcome their struggles and challenges. Their resiliency and successes, large and small, are what inspire me each and every day."
Request an appointment
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Brightline currently provides services in NY, NJ, CT, MA, and WA.
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What is an associate therapist?
Associate therapists have earned their master’s degree in social work, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or counseling. They have a limited license to practice under supervision, and are completing their supervised hours at Brightline to work toward their independent licensure. That means that all of the work they do with your family will be supervised by one of Brightline’s licensed providers. Their supervising provider will review all session notes, care plans, conversations, and recommendations to ensure the approach to your child’s treatment is aligned with our standards of providing high-quality, safe, and ethical care. Supervising provider names can be found on each associate therapist provider page on our website; the associate therapist will also share who their supervisor is at the start of care.
