Joel Taveras established NYUMBRELLA COACHING in 2022.
Of Latin and Spanish heritage, he grew up in New York City as a bilingual individual with a deep passion for literature & art. He earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology and Sociology before advancing his education with a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, along with certification and licensure in the field. Additionally, he achieved credentials as a Certified Life Coach and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor.
With over 17 years of experience in social services, Mr. Taveras has consistently aspired to excel in his career. He began his journey as a volunteer in a hospital, followed by internships in rehabilitation facilities, and later took on the role of an administrative assistant at a domestic violence center. Recognizing the need to make a meaningful impact, he continued to advance his career. He eventually became a Residential Manager at a group home for individuals with developmental disabilities, progressing to positions such as Case Manager Supervisor, Care Manager Supervisor, and ultimately Assistant Director of Care Management. This trajectory led him to serve as the Department Director for Vocational Rehabilitation, working with populations facing challenges such as mental illness, substance abuse, and medical disabilities. He then transitioned into clinical roles, including Clinical Assessor, Qualified Health Professional, and Vocational Coach for Long-Term/Short-Term Disability.
With experience in both nonprofit and private sectors, he launched his own practice during the COVID-19 pandemic, initially offering virtual services to accommodate the changing demands of the time.
As the founder of NYUMBRELLA COACHING, Mr. Taveras is now poised to provide in-person services as well as virtual at his newly opened offices in New York City. He brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to addressing the crucial wellness needs of the community which he calls home.
In the spring of 2025, Mr. Taveras will also celebrate his debut as a published author with the release of his first novel, The Shout of the Phoenix, a writing literary project close to 20 years in the making.
Therapeutic Approach
Mr. Taveras is primarily a bilingual counselor, emphasizing an approach to therapy that prioritizes positive reinforcement, mutual respect, and the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. He specializes in various modalities, including Talk Therapy, Counseling, Coaching, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, offering both short-term and long-term treatment plans. Proficient in Spanish, he is skilled in speaking, reading, and writing, ensuring effective communication with a diverse clientele.
Clientele
Mr. Taveras has collaborated with a diverse clientele over the years, including members of the LGBTQ community, individuals with mental illness, those facing chronic and medical conditions, veterans, and individuals who have experienced substance use/abuse and domestic violence. His experience extends to working with individuals with developmental and learning disabilities, the formerly incarcerated, the aging population, immigrants, and the homeless. He has provided support to adults, adolescents, children, and seniors, particularly focusing on individuals seeking clinical assistance in their therapeutic vocational journeys.
With extensive experience in addressing substance use/abuse, Mr. Taveras develops treatment plans that employ a Motivational Interviewing (MI) counseling approach, emphasizing clients' strengths. He has also worked with individuals facing mental health challenges, utilizing a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). For clients with developmental disabilities, he adopts a person-centered approach, drawing on over 15 years of experience working with individuals diagnosed with conditions such as Autism and Cerebral Palsy. In his work with younger clients, he incorporates Play Therapy techniques. His client base includes individuals diagnosed with Traumatic Brain Injury, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Vocational Expert
As a bilingual clinician who understands the significance of vocational opportunities, Mr. Taveras values collaboration with legal and medical representatives in cases related to accidents, disability claims, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and workers' compensation. This partnership allows him to offer comprehensive support, working together to help individuals achieve their ultimate personal fulfillment.
His clientele encompasses a diverse range of ages, genders, and orientations, positioning Mr. Taveras as an expert with a vast array of resources in New York City. He is dedicated to supporting and advocating for his clients, training and educating them, and, when necessary, testifying in court to enhance their lives. Through assessments, screenings, tests, evaluations, and other methodologies, he provides evidence that his clients are entitled to the protections and benefits guaranteed by law, including those under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). He has worked with individuals who have sustained injuries—both job-related and non-job-related—and who have often been misinformed about their rights, lacking appropriate advocacy and awareness of available resources.
As a Vocational Expert with experience in both Short-Term and Long-Term Disability cases, Mr. Taveras has showcased his expertise in vocational counseling. He assists clients in various aspects of their employment journey, including resume creation, pre-employment preparation, job searching, and conducting mock interviews. His comprehensive approach ensures that clients are well-equipped to navigate the job market and enhance their employability.
Furthermore, Mr. Taveras has collaborated with clients and companies to conduct ergonomic assessments, job market labor surveys, and evaluate the Functional Capacity Outcomes for clients seeking to apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits. His role as Program Director has also led to successful grant completion and acquisition, highlighting his ability to secure funding and resources for the programs he oversees.
