At Foundations, we combine evidence-based treatments with our therapists’ lived experiences to help you feel truly seen, understood, and supported.
Maybe you’ve tried therapy before and left feeling unheard or dismissed. Or maybe this is your very first step into therapy, and you’re nervous about what to expect. Our therapists are warm and compassionate, ready to guide you through the process every step of the way.
Start building the foundation for the change you’re looking for: reach out to us with questions or book a free consultation today.
Meet the Team
Rachel Schimmel, LCSW
Rachel Schimmel is a therapist and the owner of Foundations Therapy. Her interest in therapy began early and naturally led her into the field of social work. Before opening her private practice, she gained experience in diverse settings—including early childhood programs, foster care, and the NYC family court system. These experiences shaped her approach to therapy: meeting clients exactly where they are, whether they are carrying pain, sadness, stress, or shame.
Rachel deeply believes that the relationship between therapist and client is one of the most powerful components of the healing process. She shows up authentically and encourages clients to do the same, fostering a collaborative space where meaningful change can occur.
She lives in Westchester County, NY, with her husband, daughter, and pup.
Founder and Therapist
Astra Titus, LMSW
As a bi-racial woman and mother with 25 years of therapeutic, legal, and advocacy experience, Astra firmly believes all healing begins with belonging.
As humans, we need a sense of belonging as much as air or water – we simply cannot survive without it. When we feel disconnected from ourselves, our partners/families, or others, we can feel lost - untethered.
Astra’s passion is helping people to reconnect to themselves, their partners/families, and others. Her deep expertise in cultural and trauma-informed care, inter and intrapersonal healing, and family systems and dynamics informs her work with everyone; individuals, partners/families, and groups.
Her unconditional curiosity and acceptance foster an immediate sense of belonging with her clients - ultimately allowing them to find their own. For anyone seeking acceptance, belonging, and connection with themselves and/or others, Astra is eager to join you in your journey.
Astra and her husband, Lee, have two amazing boys – Jose, and Hank. They live on Seneca Lake in upstate New York.
Clara Ledman, LMSW
Clara is a therapist who helps adults and couples in New York navigate anxiety, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. Whether clients are feeling overwhelmed, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or struggling with their partner or child, she provides guidance and support so they don’t have to face these challenges alone.
Her approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. Clara utilizes evidence-based techniques—including Brainspotting, IFS, ACT, ERP, and somatic therapy—to support healing from anxiety, OCD, trauma, and life stress. She also offers neuro-affirming and intersectional care that honors the whole person.
With experience working in NYC schools and community programs, Clara understands the pressures of balancing family, work, and cultural identities. She meets clients where they are and helps them build confidence, resilience, and deeper connections.
Sydney Maciol, MSW Student
As Sydney enters the final stretch of the Clinical MSW program at Utica University, she brings a strong foundation of experience working with children and families across a variety of settings. Throughout her professional journey, she has developed a well-rounded perspective through roles in foster care, social services, substance abuse treatment, the education system, and childcare. These diverse experiences have strengthened her ability to understand the unique challenges that individuals and families face, as well as the systemic factors that impact their well-being.
Her career has been guided by a deep passion for helping others and a commitment to fostering meaningful, lasting change. She approaches her work with empathy, patience, and curiosity, aiming to create a safe and supportive environment for growth. She takes pride in offering clients her full presence and a compassionate, nonjudgmental listening ear. Her goal is to empower clients to identify their strengths, build resilience, and move toward their personal goals with greater confidence and self-awareness.