About HealthStar

Uniting Cultures, Building Resilience, and Transforming Lives with Mental and Behavioral Health Support for Refugees and Immigrants.

The Motivation Behind
Our Mission

Refugees and immigrants often face daunting challenges as they navigate the complexities of displacement, resettlement, and integration into a new society. The journey is fraught with trauma, loss, and uncertainty, leaving deep emotional and psychological scars.

Yet, access to culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health services is limited, exacerbating the suffering of those already burdened by adversity as new arrivals to the US and immigrants. Healthstar recognizes the urgent need for specialized behavioral support services tailored to the unique experiences and cultural backgrounds of refugees and immigrants, empowering them to reclaim their resilience and rebuild their lives.

african descent family home kids kissing their father

Communities That
We Serve

At Healthstar, we offer a wide array of community-based mental and behavioral health services that are culturally and linguistically tailored to meet the unique and diverse needs of refugees and immigrants.


Our services include culturally and linguistically tailored behavioral health support services, interventions, and education including increasing knowledge of the immigrant and refugee communities about affordable and accessible behavioral health therapy, trauma-informed therapy, behavioiral health education, social supports and services addressing social drivers of health and acculturation support for individuals and families.

Our approach is grounded in cultural humility and competency and  evidence-based practices that apply the sociecological model.  We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where immigrant and refugee individuals and families can heal, grow, and thrive.

young man and woman happy

The ROI of Investing in Healthstar for State, Local, Federal, and Private Entities

Investing in Healthstar represents a strategically sound opportunity for investors committed to improving the overall mental health and wellness of every individual especially historically marginalized populations and communities. By addressing the mental health needs of refugees and immigrants, we can mitigate the long-term consequences of untreated trauma and promote successful integration, social cohesion, and economic prosperity.


Many immigrants and refugees are already working in different industries and contributing to the economic prosperity of many companies and communities. However, many immigrants and refugees are un- or under-insured and represent cultures where reaching out for help to address physical and mental health issues is highly stigmatized. Therefore, although they assimilate into communities and work in industries, they remain in the shadows and suffer in silence.

Investing in culturally responsive mental health services for refugees and immigrants yields significant returns on investments by increasing access to care, promoting agency to seek help, improving academic and employment outcomes, reducing healthcare costs by driving people into appropriate care opposed to utilizing hospital emergency departments as their primary care providers; and enhancing resilience and community building.

Healthstar's collaborative and inclusive approach not only improves the lives of refugees and immigrants but also strengthens  communities and the fabric of society, fosters health and wellness, and promotes sustained economic growth, paving the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all residents.

portrait male friends sharing affectionate moment friendship

Healthstar Core Values

At Healthstar, our core values guide every aspect of our work, shaping our approach to providing exceptional healthcare services. These principles are the foundation of our commitment to delivering culturally sensitive and compassionate mental and behavioral health support to refugees and immigrants.

Compassionate

Healthstar's team listens attentively to clients' concerns, showing genuine care and understanding in every interaction.

Empathetic

They strive to see situations from the client's perspective, fostering empathy and creating a safe space for open dialogue.

Supportive

Healthstar offers ongoing support, empowering clients to navigate challenges and make positive changes in their lives.

Professional

Their staff comprises highly trained professionals who adhere to ethical standards, ensuring quality care in all services provided.

Innovative

Healthstar incorporates the latest evidence-based practices and technologies to continually enhance treatment effectiveness and client outcomes.

Responsive

They promptly address clients' needs and concerns, offering timely assistance and adjustments to treatment plans as necessary.

Philemon Mboini

Philemon Mboini is a passionate advocate for mental and behavioral health with a solid background in healthcare and IT. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Buea, Cameroon. His career includes impactful roles with Medicines for Humanity Cameroon, UNICEF, and Plan Cameroon/Plan Japan, focusing on community health and support for vulnerable populations.


Philemon has also contributed significantly to public health efforts, such as combating malaria as a Global Fund Malaria Program Field Supervisor. In the tech industry, he has excelled as a Project Manager and Agile Coach/Scrum Master for companies like Global Payments, Apple, and Bamboo Health, showcasing his leadership and adaptability.

Driven by empathy and a desire to make a positive impact, Philemon embodies values of compassion, resilience, and integrity. He enjoys spending time with family, playing sports, reading, and dancing to Afrobeat music.

Join Philemon on his mission with Healthstar to promote mental wellness and optimal behavioral health for all. Together, let's create a healthier, more compassionate world.

Philemon Mboini

Kerubina Ndunguru

Kerubina Ndunguru is a dynamic professional with a multifaceted background in technology, project management, and mental health advocacy. Born and raised in Tanzania, she was shaped by the warmth of her family. She earned a Bachelor’s in Economics with a minor in International Relations from the University of Vermont and a Master’s in Technology Management from NYU Tandon School of Engineering.


Kerubina's career has spanned roles at esteemed organizations like Amtrak, where she excelled as an IT Senior Project Manager and Scrum Master. She has demonstrated a flair for servant leadership, managing large-scale enterprise software development projects with finesse. Her personal experiences of relocating to the US and coping with the loss of her mother have fueled her commitment to mental health advocacy, especially for immigrant populations.

Motivated by her journey toward healing, Kerubina co-founded Healthstar with Philemon, aiming to dismantle barriers to mental wellness and foster inclusivity for immigrants. Over six years, she has championed initiatives for mental health dialogue, education, and resources. Her vision is to use Healthstar as a catalyst for addressing the behavioral health needs of immigrant communities.Kerubina is dedicated to personal growth, compassionate leadership, and social impact. She strives to transform lives and cultivate a world where mental health is recognized as a fundamental cornerstone of human flourishing.

kerubina ndunguru
I have known Philemon for more than 15 years, starting from when he was the Medicine for Humanity Programs Manager. Philemon’s dedication to helping refugees and migrants is truly inspiring. Over the years, I've witnessed his relentless commitment to connecting underserved communities with essential mental health services and resources. His empathy and understanding make him a trusted ally for anyone navigating the challenges of resettlement.
Philip, Social worker, MBI
Philemon and I live in the same neighborhood and their work with refugees and migrants goes beyond mere professional duty—it's his passion. His deep compassion and unwavering support have transformed countless lives, providing not only mental health assistance but also a sense of belonging and hope. His integrity and kindness are evident in everything he does.
Phelan, Software Engineer, Spotify
HealthStar’s concern for the well-being of refugees and migrants is matched only by their extensive knowledge and resourcefulness. They are a beacon of hope, helping those in need access critical mental health services and support.
Esther, Immigrant from Congo
Philemon and I have been working in the IT space together and also play in the same soccer team. Philemon is a true champion for underserved communities. His tireless efforts to bridge the gap between mental health services and those who need them most are remarkable. His kindness, patience, and dedication make a profound difference in the lives of refugees and migrants, offering them the support they so desperately need.
Chindo, Data Analyst, Honeywell and Community Support Coach
I have known Philemon and Kerubina since I migrated to USA early 2022. Philemon's and Kerubina impact on the refugee and migrant communities is immeasurable. Their warmth and empathy create a safe space for individuals to seek help and guidance. Their unwavering dedication to ensuring that everyone has access to mental health services and resources is a testament to their remarkable character and commitment to making the world a better place.
Therese, Immigrant from Cameroon
Kerubina's kindness made a big difference at Citycare. She got along well with everyone there, from the staff to the clients. When she left, the clients really missed her because she always went out of her way to help them with their problems. Over time, Kerubina learned a lot about mental health, and now she's using that knowledge to help others feel better and more stable.
Cheyo, Maya (Citycare)
On paper, Kerubina seems too good to be true. But she’s real. I know her to be an honorable woman in all that she does; a person of impeccable ethics and integrity; imminently trustworthy. She is passionate about both her work and her coworkers, and she has earned our confidence and respect. We have also seen and experienced her dedication to mental health awareness in our workplace. I know that with her heart for servant leadership and her passion for better mental health, her impact upon the North Carolina community will be exponential.
Linda Sue Phillips

Frequently Asked Questions

Healthstar stands as a beacon of hope and healing, dedicated to providing culturally and linguistically appropriate mental and behavioral health support services to refugees and immigrants in the United States.

How can I schedule an appointment?

To schedule an appointment with us, please click on the link below and follow the steps, or call us at:

Phone: 917-597-4687
Phone: 859-536-3360

Do you offer services in multiple languages?

Yes, we offer services in multiple languages to better serve our diverse community of immigrants and refugees. We provide assistance in French, Swahili, and Creole.

Do you accept insurance and what are the payment options?

We accept various insurance plans. For more details about insurance and other payment options, please contact our office directly.

How Can We Help?

We're dedicated to providing the best support for all your needs. Our team is here to assist you.