Cozy community room with couches and plants, welcoming atmosphere
WHO WE ARE

About Muslim Peer Services

OUR MISSION

Our Story

We started Muslim Peer Services because we believe no one should have to face mental health or substance use challenges on their own. We’re part of Baitul Jamaat – House of Community, and we bring together faith, culture, and real know-how to create a safe, welcoming space for people and families all across New York City. Our team isn’t just certified in peer support — we’re also part of this community, with our own lived experience. We meet you exactly where you are, with no judgment, no barriers, and no waiting lists.

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE WORK

Meet The Team

We're a small team rooted in Staten Island. What ties us together is a shared belief that listening is the most important thing we do.

Bearded man in a striped kufi looks upward with Coney Island in the background.

Founder & Peer Support Lead

Rashawn Haaziq Bronson

Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) | Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) | Recovery Coach | Trainer | Youth Mentor

Smiling woman wearing a peach hijab and tinted glasses in a lush green garden.

Director of education/Group Facilitator

Nyree Martinez-Bronson

Co-Founder | Peer Specialist | Educator | Educational Director, MPS Virtual Peer Academy | Youth Mentor

Smiling Black man with a long beard and large glasses wearing a floral tie.

Chaplain/Therapist/Counselor

Gareth Bryant

Mental Health & Community Advocate | Suicide Awareness & Prevention Advocate | Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)–Trained Chaplain | Community Educator

Smiling woman with long braids and pink glasses, with a city skyline and bridge.

CPS/Group Facilitator/Mentor

Nefertiti Macaulay

Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) | Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) | Recovery Coach | Group Facilitator | Community Organizer

Serious Black man with dreadlocks and a full beard wearing a black blazer outdoors.

CPS/Group Facilitator/Youth Mentor

Ibrahim Blake

Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) | Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) | Recovery Coach | Group Facilitator | Mentor

Smiling woman in a black hijab and glasses with a river and bridge background.

Director of marketing/Community Outreach

Jamilah LaSalle

Co-Founder & Executive Director Baitul Jamaat House of Community | Community Organizer | Youth and Elder Advocate

Smiling Black man with a white beard and black beanie, outdoors by the water.

Imam/Chaplain/Counselor/Group Facilitator

Zulqarnain Abdu-Shahid

Founder & Imam, Baitul Jamaat House of Community | Faith & Community Leader | Mental Health Advocate | Interfaith Community Advocate

WHAT THEY SAY

Voices from Staten Island

I came for the one-on-one sessions not sure what to expect. The peer counselor listened without rushing, without judging. It felt like talking to someone who actually gets it.

Aisha M.

Staten Island resident

The online group discussions let me join without leaving my home. I could keep my camera off at first, just listen. That small thing made all the difference.

Fatima R.

Group participant

I was nervous about group counseling until I walked in. Everyone was at a different place in their journey. Nobody put me on the spot. It just felt like community.

Yusuf H.

Group counsel participant

Diverse individuals participate in a peer group session in a modern room with a waterfall.

A one-on-one session or a quiet spot in a group circle — it's your call.

We keep it simple on Staten Island. Reach out by phone or email, and we'll find a time that works for you — no forms, no wait.