Malina Banavong Maladore, PsyD
Postdoctoral Fellow
Malina Banavong Maladore, PsyD, is a postdoctoral psychology fellow who received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University New England. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Resource Economics from the University of Connecticut and a master’s degree in Community Psychology from the University of New Haven. She completed her postdoctoral training at Tufts University Counseling and Mental Health Services and has experience in group private practice settings. She completed pre-doctoral clinical training at:
- University at Albany (SUNY) Counseling & Psychological Services
- Wesleyan University Counseling & Psychological Services
- Antioch University New England Psychological Services Center
- CDM Counseling & Consultation Services
Malina’s clinical focus and research interests include understanding how relational experiences, cultural identity, and systems of power and oppression shape individuals’ sense of self, emotional well-being, and relationships with others. She is particularly interested in how trauma manifests in interpersonal dynamics, identity development, and internalized narratives, especially for women and women of color.
Her dissertation focused on understanding the role of cultural centers in supporting undergraduate student well-being. She has also presented seminars on topics including racial trauma and healing, the impact of trauma on refugee populations, and modern dating and relationships among young adults.
Areas of Focus:
- Relationships and attachment
- Anxiety and depression
- Work stress, burnout, and academic pressure
- Identity, culture, and multicultural experiences
- Race and cultural identity
- LGBTQIA, gender and sexuality topics
- Family relationships and dynamics
- Life transitions and adjustment
- ADHD/ Neurodevelopmental disorder
- Racial and systemic trauma
How I Can Help:
I see therapy as a space where you can feel genuinely understood and begin to make sense of your experiences; how relationships, identity, and past experiences have shaped how you see yourself and connect with others. As a first-generation Laotian American and daughter of refugees, I bring a lived understanding of how culture and larger systems shape people’s experiences, which naturally informs how I show up in my work with clients.
Much of my clinical training has been with college students, emerging adults, and people of color, which has deeply shaped how I approach identity, relationships, and the therapy space. Through a Relational-Cultural Therapy lens, I focus on building safety and trust while gently helping you notice patterns, deepen insight, and reconnect with your sense of agency. My goal is to create a space where you can be fully yourself and feel supported in moving toward a life and relationships that feel more aligned and authentic.
Getting started is easy.
Schedule your first appointment today.
Step 1
Complete the Consultation Form
Begin your journey by filling out our initial consultation form. This helps us understand your needs and match you with the right expert.
Step 2
Schedule Your Appointment
We'll review your form and schedule you with a therapist who specializes in treating your specific concerns.
Step 3
Meet with Your Therapist
Finally, you'll meet with your therapist to start working on your healing path together.