MEET Our Talented Team Members

Vanessa found yoga in 2001 at a tiny non-for-profit ashram offering classes for teens. Being an avid martial arts practitioner, she was quite surprised at the physical and mental challenge the class provided. Growing up with scoliosis, she found yoga was a great way to alleviate chronic back pain, while simultaneously leaving her feeling more calm and centered.

Vanessa originally attended college for creative writing and publishing and wanted to find a flexible side gig so she could focus on her art. In 2007, she enrolled in a seven month intensive to become a licensed massage therapist.  By the end of the program, she also completed an apprenticeship in herbal medicine, became a Reiki Master, and completely changed the trajectory of her career.

After massage school, she immediately went into private practice, and continued to study holistic approaches to physical and mental health.  She received certifications in polarity therapy, yoga, and health coaching, all whilst completing her bachelors of science in exercise physiology.

In 2009, Vanessa was in a severe car accident that nearly took her life.  Incurring three traumatic brain injuries, she was referred by a neurologist to a psychiatrist to go on medication to help cope with her “permanent” stutter and learning disability.

More relentless than she was injured, Vanessa dove deep into a dedicated meditation practice while exploring every holistic approach to heal her body and mind.  From vippasana to craniosacral therapy, she integrated various modalities and made a full recovery without the use of pharmaceutical drugs or allopathic interventions.

In 2012, she took what she learned on her healing path and opened Emerge.  Her mission was to provide the space to empower individuals to reclaim a sense of sovereignty in their healthcare.

Over the past decade, Vanessa has continued to expand her knowledge while simultaneously serving thousands of clients either through teaching or one-on-one sessions.  Whether it’s through a group training, acupuncture, somatic bodywork, or individual coaching, Vanessa has a unique way of supporting clients to actualize their potential and access their innate power to physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Certifications: B.S. in Exercise Physiology from Hofstra University, NYS Licensed Massage Therapist through Finger Lakes School of Massage, 200-HR RYT @ YPC, 300-HR RYT @ ISHTA Yoga w/ Alan Finger (to complete 500-HR Cert), Yin Yoga Training w/ Corinna Benner, 200-HR Forrest Yoga Foundation Training, Advanced Forrest Yoga Teacher Training, AntiGravity Fitness Trainings: Fundamentals 1 & 2, Aerial Yoga 1 & 2, Suspension Fitness 1 & 2, Restorative, AIRBarre, Just KIDS, 1 Star Trainer, Reiki Levels 1, 2, 3 through Soul Song – Usui Reiki Master Teacher, APP & RPP Certifications in Polarity Therapy, JFB Myofascial Release Therapy Seminars (MFR1, MFR2, Unwinding & Advanced Unwinding), Upledger Craniosacral Therapy 1, 6 Month Herbal Medicine Apprenticeship from Heartstone Herbal School, Certified by the AADP (American Association of Drugless Practitioners) as a Holistic Health Counselor from Institute of Integrative Nutrition, Ashiatsu Certified, Cupping Therapy Certification through ICTA, Masters of Science in Acupuncture

Jen has always wanted to be a part of creating something that was bigger than herself. And in 2014, she encountered the opportunity to partner with someone who shared her drive and vision. The partnership with Vanessa to co-create a network of likeminded individuals committed to expansion has proved in alignment with her greater dreams & aspirations. Jen is excited to explore limitless possibilities and continues the search to offer more holistic wellness solutions and the most comprehensive care to her patients and clients.Certifications: B.A. in Music Performance from NYU, NYS Licensed and NCCAOM certified Acupuncturist, NYS Licensed Massage Therapist, 200HR & 300HR RYT @ Emerge, 200HR RYT from Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat Bahamas, 300HR RYT and Kundalini Certified from Yandara Yoga Institute Baja Mexico, Certified provider of IASTM, Certified Holistic Health Coach through Institute of Integrative Nutrition, Antigravity Fitness Certifications: Fundamentals 1 & 2, Suspension Fitness 1 and Restorative, Certified TRX Instructor, Certified Provider of Fascial Movement Taping, Usui Reiki Master, Certified Reflexologist with Shen Dao Institute, All John F. Barnes’ Myofascial Release Seminars (Expert Level), certified Microneedling provider through AcuLift.

Amanda unrolled her yoga mat for the first time in 2016 seeking a way to unwind and destress from the demands of her corporate job. It only took one class for Amanda to realize that yoga was exactly the outlet she was looking for, and shortly thereafter Emerge became her home away from home. A life long athlete, yoga provided a completely different physical experience for Amanda; most notably the connection to physical patterns and emotions stored in the body. Yoga provided the time and space for Amanda to explore herself in ways she never had before, leading her down a path of self-discovery, healing and tremendous personal growth. Amanda's passion for yoga led her to a major career change, and as a result, she not only teaches yoga, but also AntiGravity at Emerge! Amanda believes that feeling free in your body is incredibly empowering, and being able to share that with others inspires her everyday.

April first started practicing power flow yoga in college for the cardio and strength benefits. At the time she was completing a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. The stress and anxiety of balancing college and life was a challenge and she sought out yoga to clear away the mind chatter. She soon realized that there was a great emotional benefit and noticed that she felt more grounded and calm, yet energized at the same time.After working in special education and then later a technology company, she felt a strong pull to dive further into the yoga and wellness world. She was met with a supportive and welcoming community and knew she was in the right place. April's passion for sharing yoga with others brings her tremendous joy, and upon completing 200H YTT, she was inspired to explore the world of AntiGravity. She found using the Harrison Hammock to practice flips and tricks to defy gravity was incredibly fun! April loves being a student just as much as a teacher and will continue to be a lifelong learner.Certifications: Emerge 200HR RYT, AntiGravity Fundamentals 1&2, AntiGravity Just Kids, TRX Suspension Qualified, Mindful Resilience for Trauma Recovery Level 1 (Veteran’s Yoga Project), Reiki 1 & 2

Ashley’s enthusiasm for helping others has been her greatest inspiration to begin her journey in the wellness field. As someone who has been on the receiving end of holistic treatments since pre-teen age, she is thrilled and honored to be able to offer her services to those seeking a life of abundant wellness & balance.After receiving her first acupuncture session as a teenager, she knew there was something special about this ancient medicine. While taking her prerequisites for acupuncture in the massage therapy program, she soon discovered a second passion. She then realized that utilizing both massage and acupuncture equated to faster results for the patients.Ashley has assisted many people on their healing journey using various bodywork modalities. Combining the knowledge she has obtained from her Acupuncture degree, Massage therapy Degree, Reiki certification, personal training experience, practicing yoga & her own fitness journey, she aims to help her patients move through a wide range of physical, emotional, and spiritual transitions in the most efficient way possible. She believes that the body needs to be in a relaxed state in order for any healing to occur. Her treatments are focused on helping the patient get into a calm, tranquil state, while still addressing any areas of tension or pain.Certifications: Acupuncture License, Massage Therapy License, Reiki 2 Certification

Brittany was introduced to yoga during her freshman year college exercise class at Quinnipiac University in 2007. However, it was not until diving into a steady Ashtanga Vinyasa practice that she truly began to fall in love with and see the benefits yoga was producing for her body and also her mind. A tap and jazz dancer of 18 years and former dance instructor at Ella Marie School of Dance, Brittany instantly took to the fluidity of the postures and challenges on the mat. In 2013, she decided to seize the opportunity and enroll in the 200-hr teacher training program at Emerge Yoga and Wellness in Bellmore, NY. Through a close mentorship with Vanessa Cafiero as well continuing her education in 300-hr teacher training, Brittany sharpened her skills, allowing her to bring her own personal style and creativity to her sequencing. Inspired by Ashtanga and Forrest teachings, Brittany teaches an uplifting vinyasa flow with a big emphasis on connecting to the breath, your inner power. Her knowledge of contemporary movement combined with her passion for uplifting spirited music interweave to create a unique and high- spirited experience that will elevate your practice. Certifications: Emerge 200HR RYT, Emerge 300HR RYT, AntiGravity Fundamentals 1&2, AntiGravity Kids 1&2, AntiGravity Restorative, AntiGravity Pilates, Reiki 1

Karen is passionate about sharing health and fitness with the community, and has been an elementary school teacher for 20 years. Karen enjoys teaching yoga to children of all ages because they are so free-spirited and creative, and bring an amazing energy to class. She also loves bringing a mindful mediation practice into the children's classes as it helps in their daily life and at school. In her spare time she is a director of a recreational program for children and adults with special needs. Karen has a steady yoga and mediation practice, whether here at the studio or at home.Certifications: “Emerge 200HR RYT”, “AntiGravity Fundamentals 1&2”, “AntiGravity Aerial Yoga”, “AntiGravity Just Kids 1&2”, “AntiGravity Suspension Fitness 1”,” Certified Group Fitness Instructor through IFTA since 2006”

Kristen began her yoga journey in the year 2000 under the guidance of a power yoga instructor. She fell in love with yoga for it’s gifts of health, vitality and mental clarity.Looking to awaken her spirit and heart center she was drawn to the Deepak Chopra center in NYC. There she practiced meditation and breath work techniques that opened a new path for self awareness.After a 200 hour vinyasa certification, she felt a calling towards the ancient wisdom and authentic devotion of Kundalini yoga. Studying this practice as taught by Yogi Bhajan, she then was 300 hours certified.Additionally trained in Reiki, enneagram and feminine lunar wisdom she looks to assist students in releasing deep emotional and vibrational blocks. Kristen‘s vision for all students is to experience vital energy, joy and liberating peace.Certifications: 200 hour Vinyasa”, 300 hour Kundalini, Reiki 1, 2 & 3

Marqueline is an outgoing, funny, and caring individual. She holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Community and Human Services.  Marqueline’s initial passion was working with individuals who experience traumatic brain injuries or other development disabilities. She is a strong advocate for others whose voices are not always heard. The past 10 years has been dedicated to working with this population.  Marqueline's love for massage therapy was renewed during a college event at Suffolk Community College. At the time, Marqueline was pursuing a career in social work but massage therapy had always remained an interest. After obtaining her B.S. at Empire State College, Marqueline began a career as a Mental Health Case Manager. After 3 years in the position, the love of massage therapy was renewed once again. Marqueline was in a position to finally make this career change. And she did! Marqueline has found a passion in massage therapy as it allows her to help others by providing comfort, relaxation and mindfulness healing. Marqueline offers a variety of modalities to better understand and provide the best service to her clients including pre-natal massage, Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, medical massage, and Thai massage.

Michelle took her first beginner yoga workshop in Manhattan while working in the fashion industry and was immediately hooked. Always drawn to the fun, playful gymnastic side of yoga, it wasn't long until Michelle discovered AntiGravity at Emerge. Being a lover of all things fun and challenging she decided to get certified in Antigravity so she could share her love of being upside down with everyone. After teaching Antigravity at Emerge for a year, and taking several AntiGravity trainings both at Emerge and the Christopher Harrison Lab in the city, she decided to take the next step and  complete 200HR Yoga Teacher Training at Emerge. Currently enrolled in 300HR Advanced Yoga Teacher Training, Michelle's passion in teaching is to spread love, light, laughter and positivity to her students and those around her.Certifications: Emerge 200HR RYT, Emerge 300HR RYT, AntiGravity Fundamentals 1&2, AntiGravity Pilates, AntiGravity Restorative, AntiGravity Arial Yoga 1, Reiki 1 & 2

When Samara first started practicing Yoga her mom said something that stuck with her forever: “I’ve never seen you like anything physical.” She was never into fitness or exercising and definitely never went to a gym. Though the practice of Yoga seemed physical on the outside, she realized she enjoyed it so much because of the mental strength that she gained from the practice. Teaching Yoga became a way for Samara to continue to expand her practice and to share with others the amazing benefits she continues to receive every single day.Certifications: Emerge 200HR RYT, Emerge 300HR RYT, AntiGravity Fundamentals 1&2, Reiki Level 1 & 2

Vicky is passionate about life, healing and teaching. She spent over 20 years in healthcare on multidisciplinary functions ranging from medical research and technology, direct patient care and marketing. As a pediatric nurse practitioner she is passionate about non medical ways to treat her patients and families. Originally she is from the Great South Bay Area of Long Island. Since her time training in the Boston area for her graduate work, she has returned home to share experiences she has picked up along the way as a Reiki Master Teacher, ICBCH Certified Hypnotherapist, yoga and meditation instructor, and life long musician. Alongside her training experiences, her travels to Peru and Grenada have deeply resonated with her and inspired her to combine her western medical training with her own personal growth experiences using complementary & integrative medicine. This is also deeply personal and that is where her passion for sharing the wisdom and healing of sound and hypnotherapy stems from. She herself has used both in combination to heal from heart surgery alongside emotional heart break several years ago and continues to love, learn and manifestation positive changes in her life. Certifications: Masters in science in nursing, ICBCH hypnotherapy certification, Reiki Master Teacher, Yin meditation and yoga certified, Restorative yoga certified, Energy certification, Body and Brain Yoga brain management training & Preparing for surgery with Peggy Huddleston certified

Sandy started practicing yoga in 2009 when she was looking for calm amidst a particularly chaotic time in her life. And lo and behold, she found that calm on her mat. In 2012 she enrolled in Emerge’s very first YTT class as a means to deepen her yoga practice.In 2016 Sandy became certified to teach yoga to our veterans with a group called Veterans Yoga Project. Today she serves as NYS Coordinator with VYP. She also obtained her Meditation and Mindfulness certificate from the School of Positive Transformation. Sandy’s classes will bring that same calm vibe she was looking for the day she walked into a yoga studio.