Staff Spotlight: Manique
Team Newhouse
Helping Children Heal Through Trust, Safety, and Play
At Newhouse, we believe in the power of healing—especially for our youngest survivors. And since January 2022, Manique has been a steady and compassionate force behind that healing journey.
Manique began her career at Newhouse as a shelter advocate, later returning as an intern in our children’s department while earning her master’s degree. Now, she serves as a Children’s Therapist, where her passion and clinical expertise make a life-changing difference for the kids in our care.
In her role, Manique ensures the safety and emotional wellbeing of children who have experienced domestic violence. Using trauma-informed modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, and play therapy, she creates a safe, consistent, and empowering environment where children can learn, express, and heal.
“It’s my job to ensure the safety of the children and build a trusting therapeutic relationship by establishing consistency and empowerment,” Manique explains. “I use trauma-informed approaches to normalize their feelings and teaching healthy coping skills.” These are tools kids can utilize long after therapy ends.
One of her most meaningful memories at Newhouse involved working with two young sisters who arrived fearful and withdrawn. Over time, they began to smile, laugh, and open up. “They sought connection, expressed their emotions, used their coping skills, and eventually graduated from therapy,” she shares. “Watching their growth reminded me how powerful safety and trust can be.”
Manique’s passion for this work is rooted in both professional calling and personal experience. “I’ve witnessed and experienced domestic violence before. It’s a real and pervasive issue,” she says. “It can happen to anyone. That’s why I do this work—I want to help others recognize their worth and know they deserve more.”
When asked what she wants everyone to understand about domestic violence, Manique is clear:
“It’s about power and control, not just physical abuse. There are so many barriers that can keep a survivor from leaving. Rather than asking, ‘Why don’t they leave?’ we should be asking, ‘What barriers are in the way? How can I support them?’”
To the survivors she serves, she offers this encouragement: “You’ve already done one of the hardest things—surviving. Healing takes time, but it’s possible. You don’t have to do it alone. You deserve peace, safety, and love that doesn’t hurt.”
Outside of work, Manique enjoys reading, painting, cooking, traveling, and trying new experiences—often with her beloved family and cat by her side.
We’re honored to have Manique on our team. Her gentle spirit, clinical skill, and deep empathy are helping to shape brighter futures for the children of Newhouse, one session at a time.
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