SENSORY KIDS - Key Persons
Alison Kelly completed her Ed.M. in Mental Health Counseling from Fordham University where she is currently a doctoral candidate in their Counseling Psychology program. She received her undergraduate degree from Swarthmore College, studying Educational Studies and Political Science, then received a masters degree in Literacy from Teachers College, Columbia University. Prior to entering the mental health field, she was an educator teaching a variety of grade levels, ranging from 3rd through 12th grade. In her tenure, she had great success working with students of differing abilities and among a wide range of subjects. Alison has since gained experience working with children, adolescents, and emerging adults in a variety of settings and roles including educator, clinician, and researcher. She most recently completed a clinical externship at Iona College Counseling Center in New Rochelle, NY, where she provided individual counseling and organized outreach events for emerging adults. In that role, she also co-taught the "Gael Chat: Social Communication" course that provided an experiential learning environment for students to expand their skill sets related to social interaction and connectedness. In her clinical work, Alison uses an integrative approach with a psychodynamic foundation, tailored to meet her client's unique life experiences, needs, and goals. In her spare time, she loves reading, playing with her dog Cooper, and listening to anything true crime related.
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Occupational Therapist
A distinguished graduate of Quinnipiac University's accredited Occupational Therapy Program, Allie holds a dual Bachelor of Science in Health Science Studies and a Master of Occupational Therapy, complemented by a minor in psychology.
Allie's dedication to the field of occupational therapy extends beyond academia, as she has published research in OT Practice magazine highlighting the impact of circadian lighting and bright light therapy on improving sleep, mood, and engagement (January 2023).
Beyond her scholarly achievements, Allie embodies compassion and empathy in her interactions. A heartfelt communicator, Allie prioritizes cultivating meaningful connections with her clients and their families. With a diverse background working with children of all ages and various conditions, she empowers them to reach their goals and unlock their fullest potential.
Continuously enhancing her expertise, Allie remains committed to ongoing education, as she has completed courses in Pediatric Yoga and Mindfulness, and Integrated Listening Systems, seamlessly incorporating these modalities into her daily practice.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Allie finds fulfillment in an active and enriching lifestyle.
Whether practicing yoga, riding her bike, cooking, or exploring the outdoors with her loved ones, she embraces each moment with enthusiasm and gratitude.
In essence, Allie embodies the spirit of holistic care, blending expertise with warmth and innovation to uplift those she serves.
Angelina received her Bachelors degree in Health Science with minors in geriatric wellness, psychology, and honors in an accelerated 3-year program at Sacred Heart University. She received early acceptance and pursued her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Sacred Heart University as well. During her graduate school experience, Angelina traveled to a small town in Haiti delivering Occupational Therapy services to a broad population of individuals. Angelina completed her Level II Fieldwork rotation at Dynamic Kids in White Plains, New York where she developed an immediate passion for pediatrics and sensory integration.
In addition to working as an Occupational Therapist, Angelina has been providing child care within a renowned gym in Westchester, New York for over 4 years now. Her experience at this facility has helped her develop important interpersonal skills communicating with families and staff in addition to engaging children in a variety of creative activities.
Angelina is excited to bring her strong ambition and enthusiasm to the Sasco River Center team!
Angelina demonstrates a passion for pediatric development, feeding therapy, and sensory integration. She received her Bachelor's degree in Health science with a triple minor in geriatric health and wellness, psychology, and honors in an accelerated 3-year program at Sacred Heart University. She received early acceptance and pursued her Master's of Science in Occupational therapy at Sacred Heart University. During her graduate school experience, Angelina traveled to a small town in Haiti delivering Occupational Therapy services to a broad population of individuals. She also worked as a home health aid, babysitter, and coached the club soccer team at the university while pursuing her graduate degree. Angelina has taken courses on Reflex Integration, Integrated Listening Systems, Sensory and Behavioral strategies, and play based techniques. Angelina has been a part of the team since Sensory Kids merged with Southfield Center to create and develop the multi-disciplinary center we are today. She is experienced in creating sensory diets, collaborating with multiple disciplines both internally and externally, and utilizing meaningful occupations in order to maximize a client's potential. She is a certified fieldwork educator, eager to teach future OT's and give them a positive learning experience. She is also a senior supervisor, dedicated to building a productive, confident, and happy team.
In her free time, Angelina enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and friends, walking her two dogs, taking Orangetheory classes, and playing soccer. She capitalizes on her energetic and fun-loving personality to build rapport with children and families and boost motivation.
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Director of Administration and Operations
Ann brings more than 25 years of experience in the nonprofit and for-profit spaces, with proven success in management, strategic planning, fundraising, and communications. She was a founding member of the Southfield Center for Development (now Sasco River Center), where she oversaw day-to-day operations as its Managing Director and also provided direct support to parents as a special education advocate. Holding a Master's Degree in Business Administration from New York University's Stern School of Business, Ann's passion is strengthening organizations that empower people to maximize their potential, especially those that work with children, teenagers, and their families.
A newly-minted empty nester with her two wonderful boys grown and flown, Ann happily lives in Fairfield with her husband Paul and Henry, their unapologetically high-energy Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier.
BIO
Ann brings more than 25 years of experience in the nonprofit and for-profit spaces, with proven success in management, strategic […]
Anna Middleton is a versatile educator for children and youth with specific learning profiles; specializing in creating individual learning plans and coaching students with specific language based challenges, ADHD/ADD and other learning disabilities. Anna has over 10 years of experience as a Special Education teacher in both public and independent schools, working with children from kindergarten- 12th grade and concentrating on literacy intervention utilizing the Orton-Gillingham and Linda Mood Bell methods.
Originally from the United Kingdom, Anna graduated with her Bachelors degree from Nottingham Trent University, travelled South America teaching English and then pursued her Masters Degree in Special Education and Childhood Education from Manhattanville College.
Anna enjoys reading, writing poetry, hiking and spending time with her loved ones including her 2 rescue cats, Tango and Cash.
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Occupational Therapist
Anne has extensive experience working with children and collaborating with families to help clients develop skills needed to reach their full potential. She was first drawn to a career in Occupational Therapy when learning about sensory integration challenges experienced by a family member as well as other children she instructed in over 10 years working as a pre-school teacher. Anne is experienced in providing clients with occupational therapy services in areas of sensory processing, ADD, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, frustration tolerance, rigidity, emotional regulation, coping skills, and picky eating to name a few. Anne enjoys collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to support clients and families in meeting their needs.
Anne received a Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy, graduating with honors from the New England Institute of Technology. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Child Development certification.
Anne is a compassionate and creative therapist with a passion for supporting children and families to fulfill their needs and goals. She feels strongly about the importance of early intervention to provide children with the tools needed to participate and function in everyday life. She is thrilled to bring her dedication and passion for OT to Sasco River Center.
BIO
Anne has extensive experience working with children and collaborating with families to help clients develop skills needed to reach their […]
Prior to getting her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, Ariane had experience in both the corporate and entertainment worlds and raised two children. These experiences give her counseling a distinct perspective on family, career, and life cycle challenges allowing her to comfortably help others identify strengths, prioritize issues, and achieve goals. Through the lens of structural and strategic models, she incorporates narrative and solution-focused principles into her work with a strength-based, collaborative approach. Her empathy and compassion create a safe space committed to the well-being and personal development of her clients.
Ariane treats individuals with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, grief and loss, and other life transitions. In addition to her work with individuals, Ariane possesses expertise in helping families identify patterns that are not working and create solutions that promote growth. She specializes in working with adolescents and parents through launching, supports adults through parenting and couples issues, and has experience with in-patient addiction and mental health care. More recently, she has begun work with younger children, assisting them to develop coping strategies to manage stress and promoting an understanding of the strengths they already have to resolve challenges in their lives.
Ariane is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both Connecticut and Florida.
Austin Stokes, MA, Psy.D., is a post-doctoral fellow at Sasco River Center, and graduated from the APA-accredited Adler University with a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Substance Abuse Treatment. His clinical training in community mental health care to underserved populations in Chicago involved providing comprehensive psychological evaluations, individual therapy, and consultation to individuals across all ages. He completed his B.A. in Psychology at Skidmore College and received his M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in 2020. He has extensive experience in a variety of clinical settings, including therapeutic day schools,
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Occupational Therapist
Brenna received her Bachelor of Science and Masters of Science in Occupational Therapist from Sacred Heart University's accelerated program. During her fieldwork, Brenna worked with a variety of ages and conditions, including leading a psychosocial stress management group for adolescents in a special education program.
Throughout her time at Sasco River Center, Brenna has worked with children of a variety of ages with sensory processing challenges and diagnoses such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and mood disorders. Her experience from her studies and work in the clinic has allowed her to gain valuable skills to help reach the goals of each client. Her passion for learning and providing the best care keeps her pursuing continuing education opportunities and working toward higher-level certifications.
In her free time, Brenna loves crafting, video games, hiking, and playing with her pet bird Bubby.
BIO
Brenna received her Bachelor of Science and Masters of Science in Occupational Therapist from Sacred Heart University's accelerated program. During […]
Job Titles:
- Instructor
- TITLE / Reading Specialist
BIO
Brigitte Whitney is a remedial reading instructor and has extensive experience working with children with reading difficulties. She has completed […]
Brigitte Whitney is a remedial reading instructor and has extensive experience working with children with reading difficulties. She has completed the Orton-Gillingham Associate Level Course under supervision of an Orton-Gillingham fellow at Learning House in Guilford, CT. Brigitte is also a permanent Pre K - 12 Regular and Special Education Substitute Teacher and Instructional Aide for Darien Public Schools. She has a Bachelors Degree in Psychology from University of Colorado, Boulder.
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Early Childhood Specialist
Brittany Stanczuk is a Licensed Psychologist who earned her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Children and Adolescents from The George Washington University. Prior to her work at Sasco River Center, Dr. Stanczuk completed an APA accredited pre-doctoral internship at The Children's Center in Salt Lake City where she specialized in early childhood mental health, focusing on ages birth-age seven. Dr. Stanczuk is currently the Early Childhood Specialist at Sasco River Center. Dr. Stanczuk provides individual therapy, play therapy, parent guidance, family therapy and conducts psychological assessments.
Dr. Stanczuk has experience supporting parents, toddlers, and young children with various aspects of development, including managing temper tantrums, separation anxiety, sleep difficulties, and toilet-training. Additionally, Dr. Stanczuk has provided family therapy and dyadic therapy to young children with histories of complex trauma or life stressors utilizing evidence-based trauma treatments, including Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC), Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She has also worked with children in the foster care system and adoptive children. In addition to therapy, Dr. Stanczuk has experience providing comprehensive psychological evaluations, as well as Autism testing.
Dr. Stanczuk's approach to treatment incorporates both psychodynamic and attachment theories with cognitive-behavioral interventions. She strives to develop a collaborative relationship with both the child and the parent and adapts treatment to fit the needs of each child and family system.
Dr. Stanczuk has treated individuals of all ages with a wide array of psychological difficulties, including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, trauma, behavioral concerns, and interpersonal difficulties. Prior to earning her doctoral degree, Dr. Stanczuk earned her Master of Psychology degree from The George Washington University and her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Loyola University Maryland.
BIO
Brittany Stanczuk is a Licensed Psychologist who earned her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Children and […]
Caroline Segal is a Staff Psychologist at Sasco River Center. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education Studies and Human Development at Brown University and received a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Rhode Island. Prior to her work at Sasco, Caroline completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center working with clients of all ages.
Caroline specializes in parent coaching and the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, and challenges related to living with ADHD. She works with children, adolescents, and adults. Her treatment approach is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based treatments (e.g., dialectical behavior therapy, interpersonal therapy) that are adapted to the needs of the individual as well as the family system. She works compassionately and collaboratively with individuals and families to exalt their strengths as their strongest weapons against distress.
Caroline sees the family unit as integral in the therapeutic process. She often works directly with parents to equip them with skills to manage behavior challenges, streamline daily routines, and explore and strengthen attachment relationships within the family system. Caroline is certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), a behavior therapy that uses live coaching to help parents manage difficult behaviors and strengthen parent-child relationships. She has training in a variety of additional parent-focused treatments, including parent management training, parental friendship coaching, and child-parent psychotherapy.
Caroline also provides individual therapy to parents looking for support with parenting stress, life transitions, and family conflict. Of note, Caroline only provides virtual treatment at this time.
Job Titles:
- MFT, Certified Parent Coach
- MFT, Certified Parent Coach / TITLE
Carrie Ross, MFT, and bring her expertise and knowledge of relational dynamics to the individuals, couples, and families she works with. She combine compassionate listening and deep curiosity to meet each person where they are. When life gets tough, relationships are usually the first thing to feel the impact. She believes that we all have the potential to make changes in our lives when we feel stuck or challenged, and no one is meant to do it alone.
Carrie takes a collaborative approach to both individual and relationship therapy to help clients become unstuck, break unhealthy patterns and begin to make new moves in their lives. She uses a strengths-based, systemic approach integrating Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy techniques into her work.
Carrie received her undergraduate degree from American University in communications and psychology and has a masters degree in marriage & family therapy from Touro University as well as a masters in literacy and elementary education from Bank Street College of Education.
Chelsea Schnorrbusch, PhD, graduated from the University at Buffalo with her doctorate in Combined Counseling Psychology/School Psychology in 2023. Prior to this, she graduated with her master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from William Paterson University and with her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Stockton University (formerly Richard Stockton College of New Jersey).
Chelsea has diverse experience with clients spanning from childhood through young adulthood with a variety of presenting concerns, with particular specialization in working with teens and preteens with anxiety, depression, OCD, and LGBTQ related struggles. Her training experiences over the years have been in both school and community counseling settings and have encompassed a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). In her free time, Chelsea enjoys taking her dog for walks, riding her bike, and tending to her vegetable garden.
Job Titles:
- Billing and Payments Coordinator
- TITLE
Cheryl is the Billing and Payments Coordinator and is responsible for the Accounting Operations functions for the Center which includes client billing, monthly invoicing and customer support. A native to Maine, she has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Maine, and was employed for 20 years in the banking industry. Outside of work, her interests include music, books, classic movies, travel, and baseball.
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Co - Executive Director
A licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in both the private and public sectors for the past thirty years, Dr. Bogart works with children, adolescents and adults, conducting comprehensive psychoeducational and AD/HD evaluations as well as therapy services. Chris provides program consultations to local schools, as well as supervision to doctoral and post-doctoral students in psychology. Dr. Bogart serves as the Board President of the Board of Trustees of Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities; and as a member of the Board of Trustees for New Canaan Country School; chairing the NCCS Board Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity Committee.
Prior to co-founding the Sasco River Center, Dr. Bogart had founded and grown the Southfield Center for Development, one of the first multidisciplinary child development centers in Connecticut. Prior to that founding, he held various clinical positions including staff psychologist at the Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City and Director of Psychology at the Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center in Orangeburg, New York. While serving as director, Dr. Bogart organized and administered an American Psychological Association approved externship training program for clinical psychology and social work graduate students. He supervised staff psychologists on children's and adolescent inpatient units and he devised a hospital-wide behavior modification program for the children. Dr. Bogart has provided numerous classes, lectures and training programs on various topics such as parent education, executive functions assessment and coaching, psychological testing, and stress management. He has also conducted research studies in various areas including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Social Skills Training, and depression in children.
Dr. Bogart received his undergraduate training at Georgetown University and received his doctoral degree from The American University in 1986.
Job Titles:
- Coordinator
- Intake Coordinator
- TITLE
Christi Zacarola is Sasco's Intake Coordinator. Christi has had in excess of 10 years training with Sasco's Human Resources as well as Executive Director and Director of Therapy around understanding various levels of client presentation and functioning so that she can empathically and appropriately place new clients with Sasco clinicians. Additionally, Christi collaborates on an ongoing basis with clinicians so she can be up to date with their level of specialty and training to ensure best client placements. As the first point of contact, as the Intake Coordinator, Christi also manages many client and parent needs as they relate to all Sasco lines of therapy. Knowing the clinicians as well as she does makes Christi the perfect person to head Sasco's Social Committee.
Prior to joining Sasco in 2011, Christi was a Legal Assistant and owner/director of a Stamford dance studio.
Clorinda Moccia earned her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in children and adolescents from the University of Hartford's Graduate Institute of Professional Psychology. Dr. Moccia coordinates and facilitates various group psychotherapies, including the SuperKids program. Aside from group services, she also provides individual therapy and conducts psychological assessments.
Dr. Moccia has had experience working with adolescents and adults with dual diagnoses at Silver Hill Hospital. She has also provided psychological services to individuals of all ages in outpatient treatment settings and inpatient facilities, including Four Winds Hospital, Hartford Hospital, and Connecticut Children's Medical Center. She has experience treating individuals with a wide array of psychological and/or medical issues, including mood disorders, cancer, and obesity through group and individual therapy modalities.
Dr. Moccia completed an APA accredited predoctoral internship at Casa Pacifica in Camarillo, CA. She served as a clinician in the Crisis Care Shelter where she provided individual and group therapy for children and adolescents who often had extensive histories of trauma and neglect. Prior to earning her doctoral degree, Dr. Moccia earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut.
Dan received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania and a master's degree in Psychology from SUNY New Paltz before receiving his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Suffolk University. His treatment approach is informed by cognitive-behavioral and acceptance-based therapy, and uses a collaborative partnership to help clients work toward engaging in full and meaningful lives consistent with their values. Dan specializes in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders, including panic disorder, OCD, phobias, trichotillomania, and body dysmorphic disorder, in addition to a range of other emotional and behavioral disorders. Dan is also experienced in behavioral parent training, working with families to help children and adolescents engage in more positive behaviors and less undesired ones.
Dan completed his internship at Green Chimneys, a private school and residential treatment center for children and adolescents with severe behavior problems resulting from emotion-regulation, attention-deficit, autistic spectrum, and trauma-related disorders. Additionally, Dan specializes in psychoeducational testing for ADHD, learning disorders, and other issues that affect students' behavior and academic success.
Dan has published peer-reviewed articles on the function of emotions and the impact of evolutionary forces on mental illness, and has also taught a variety of psychology courses at UMass Boston, Suffolk University, and the New England Institute of Art. He is also the co-founder of PsychTable.org, a science-education nonprofit.
David Kucher provides Executive Functions and Learning Coaching at Sasco River Center, as well as collaboration on the development and implementation of learning products, presentations, and school professional development workshops. With over ten years of special education classroom experience, advanced degrees in education and writing from Rutgers University and Montclair State University, as well as current certificates in ADHD Coaching, Executive Functions Coaching, Critical Friends Groups, Academic Diversity, and Design Thinking, David works with students and families to understand brain development, embrace their learning strengths and challenges, and make a scaffolding plan. Fun fact: David has added "CrossFit Coach" to his credentials and currently works with adults and teenagers to improve their physical and mental well being at his Norwalk gym, Tower Fitness.
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Director of Diagnostic Testing Services
BIO
David Porrino, Psy.D., is a clinical neuropsychologist and licensed psychologist who performs neuropsychological and multidisciplinary evaluations with children, adolescents, and […]
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Director of Occupational Therapy
Deanna's diverse background fosters her passion in working with multi-disciplinary teams to understand all the factors that make individuals unique. Deanna received her bachelor's degree from the University of Scranton where she majored in Psychology and Philosophy and minored in Biology. She went on to pursue a Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy from Sacred Heart University, where she graduated top of her class. During her time at Sacred Heart University, she traveled to a rural town in Haiti where she worked with children and adults to deliver occupational therapy services. She has since returned to Haiti as a clinical supervisor and is passionate about providing OT to communities with little or no access to these services. She is a certified Fieldwork Educator.
Deanna has been working in the field of sensory integration since she started at Sensory Kids (now Sasco River Center), where she completed her level 2 fieldwork and has been a part of the company's overall growth. She now supervises and leads the team of occupational therapists at SRC as the Clinical Director of Occupational Therapy. Deanna has taken courses in Reflex Integration, Integrated Listening Systems, Play Based Autism Interventions and Social Thinking which allows her to provide a broad variety of intervention techniques. She is passionate about how sensory processing impacts psychological, cognitive and physical development. She has a passion for presenting and educating clinicians and families and has completed presentations in the area as well as for Connecticut Occupational Therapy Association. Deanna is experienced in creating sensory diets, home programs, environmental modifications and collaborating with parents to maximize client's progress.
Job Titles:
- National Fellow
- TITLE / Psychiatrist
Dr. Aaron J. Roberto, M.D. is a dedicated, Board-Certified, Harvard and Yale-trained child, adolescent, and board-certified adult psychiatrist, who serves as clinical faculty at the Yale Child Study Center.
Dr. Roberto creates an individualized treatment plan in an empathic, caring setting, emphasizing shared decisions with the patient and family, as well as with school counselors and outside therapists for those already in treatment. When indicated, Dr. Roberto trials medication at the lowest and safest possible doses, in conjunction with evidence-based therapeutic interventions, when desired (i.e. CBT - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, supportive, mindfulness-based, and others). In addition, Dr. Roberto prescribes suboxone (c) for the treatment of opioid dependence, for which he is certified by SAMHSA.
Dr. Roberto has extensive expertise in accurate diagnosis and treatment, utilizing medications and therapeutic interventions in treating pediatric and adult attentional-related (ADHD), depressive, mood (including Bipolar), anxiety, and trauma-related disorders, as well as post-partum and adjustment-related mood, depressive, and anxiety disorders. Dr. Roberto also completes school-based diagnostic evaluations throughout Fairfield County, CT in the elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the region in close collaboration with school administrators, teachers, and mental-health counselors and providers within the school system.
Dr. Roberto has over 7 years of direct clinical experience, including at Lenox Hill Hospital (Manhattan, NYC) and completion of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Harvard Medical School. In addition, he has been recognized nationally with awards and multiple peer-reviewed publications.
Dr. Roberto has served as the national fellow representative on the AACAP Council, advocating for the field and relaying training interests and other initiatives from residents, medical students, and fellows to the Executive Council.
BIO
Dr. Aaron J. Roberto, M.D. is a dedicated, Board-Certified, Harvard and Yale-trained child, adolescent, and board-certified adult psychiatrist, who serves […]
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Occupational Therapist
Elizabeth attended Sacred Heart University for both undergrad and graduate school. She received her Bachelor's degree in Health Science, with a minor in Psychology and Dance, and her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy within the accelerated Occupational Therapy program. Elizabeth is from Long Island and gained immense confidence in her abilities and knowledge in occupational therapy through her work in both the school and outpatient settings. Elizabeth has always had a love for working with kids. She is honored to be a part of their progress towards their highest potential.
In her free time, Elizabeth loves spending time with her family, friends and her dogs. She has a love for the beach and the water, since growing up on Long Island.
BIO
Elizabeth attended Sacred Heart University for both undergrad and graduate school. She received her Bachelor's degree in Health Science, with […]
Job Titles:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Practitioner With Her Doctorate of Nursing Practice
- TITLE
Ellen Fahey is a board certified family nurse practitioner with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from Columbia University. She is an Associate Professor of Nursing at Columbia University Medical Center. Ellen brings to Sasco River Center more than 20 years of experience as a nurse/nurse practitioner with expertise in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children, adolescents and adults as well as extensive knowledge on Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (Concussion) and its effects on the developing brain.
Ellen speaks regularly in the community regarding concussion and the management and treatment of ADHD. She is a member of Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder as well as the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society.
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Occupational Therapist
Emily received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Sociology from SUNY Geneseo and her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Sacred Heart University. During her Level II Fieldwork, she had the opportunity to work at White Plains Hospital where she gained valuable skills in acute care with the geriatric population. Following her completion of her second Level II Fieldwork at Sasco River Center, Emily joined the team as an occupational therapist. Emily has always had a passion for working with children, working in a pre-school throughout her undergraduate and graduate career. Emily is dedicated to providing children and their families with the tools and support to foster independence and engage in their most valued activities.
In her free time, Emily loves taking walks with her friends and family, doing crossword puzzles, and baking.
Emily is excited to be a part of the Sasco River Center!
BIO
Emily received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Sociology from SUNY Geneseo and her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy […]
Emily Winter (she/hers) is an unlicensed psychologist working towards her licensure at Sasco River Center. She is an assistant professor at Touro University's clinical psychology PsyD program where she teaches courses in evidenced-based therapeutic interventions for children and adolescents, cognitive assessment, and pediatric health.
Dr. Winter is a nationally and Connecticut state-certified school psychologist with a Ph.D. in educational psychology, specialization in school psychology, from the University of Connecticut. Dr. Winter received her Bachelor of Arts summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, from Connecticut College with a degree in psychology. She received her master's degree and sixth-year certificate in school psychology with Alpha Sigma Nu honors from Fairfield University. Emily completed her APA-accredited predoctoral internship at Green Chimneys, a therapeutic day school and residential treatment center for children and adolescents with mental and behavioral health diagnoses. She has worked and interned in various settings across Connecticut serving children, adolescents, and their families, including Silver Hill Hospital, public schools, alternative outplacement schools, and residential treatment facilities.
Dr. Winter works with children, adolescents, and their families, to guide them through the psychoeducational assessment process. Her assessments have supported the IEP or 504 processes to help students learn and achieve to their greatest capacity. Emily takes a strengths-based, holistic approach in her assessment practice, striving to help families navigate a path forward with tailored recommendations to bolster not only areas of vulnerabilities, but also to hone the child's successes and strengths.
Operating from a scientist-practitioner training model, Emily is also actively involved in research. Her Pediatric Mind-Body Health lab at Touro University broaches the topics of mind-body health, cognitive assessment, as well as body image, eating disorders, and weight-based bias. Her active involvement in research drives her quest for knowledge and fuels her ability to stay well versed in the practice literature and provide clients with up-to-date research and interventions.
Job Titles:
- TITLE / Occupational Therapist
Erin is a board-certified and state-licensed Occupational Therapist who received her Bachelor's degree in Health Science from Mercy College in 2019. She later went on to earn her Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from the same institution. Erin is originally from Stamford, CT, and has spent her entire life living and working in the surrounding areas. Before discovering Occupational Therapy, Erin had worked with children for many years. She was attracted to pediatric sensory occupational therapy because of its potential to help children and families with sensory integration and emotional regulation. In October 2023, Erin received her certification in the AEIOU: An Integrated Approach to Pediatric Feeding. With this certification, she endeavors to use her knowledge and experience to support children and families through feeding therapy sessions. In her free time, Erin enjoys walking her three dogs, reading, and cooking or baking for her friends and family.
BIO
Erin is a board-certified and state-licensed Occupational Therapist who received her Bachelor's degree in Health Science from Mercy College in […]
Erin Micali, CHW, Psy.D., is a post-doctoral fellow at Sasco River Center who is specializing in pediatric neuropsychology. Dr. Micali attended the University of Connecticut where she received her Bachelor of Arts in psychological sciences within the Honors Program. She earned a second Bachelor of Arts in communication from the University of Connecticut. Erin graduated with a combined doctorate in counseling and school psychology, with Kappa Delta Pi honors from Rivier University in 2023. She completed her APA-accredited predoctoral internship at Clifford Beers Community Care Center, conducting assessment and therapy with individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder. Cultural humility was a value instilled in Erin throughout her doctoral and internship programs and she remains dedicated to providing services to a diverse clientele and integrating issues of diversity into clinical work. Interning at Clifford Beers Community Care Center allowed Erin to apply her knowledge around issues of diversity to her clinical work while also expanding her ability to integrate such issues into assessment, intervention, parent guidance, and consultation.
Erin's experience in assessment includes learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disabilities (e.g., ADHD, ASD, language disabilities, intellectual disability) and socioemotional assessment (e.g., mood, anxiety, depression, personality). Erin believes that a well-written assessment can be used as a road map for helping a child and their family to navigate their complex needs holistically, academically, socially, and emotionally. Erin approaches assessment from a strength-based perspective in which she looks for a child's innate skills to help facilitate growth and development. To do this Erin meets every child where they are, ensuring each child feels comfortable in her office. Dr. Micali has experience conducting psychoeducational evaluations within the New Hampshire school system. These reports have supported the IEP or 504 evaluation process to help children access education and better understand their learning style by highlighting the interplay of emotions, neurodevelopmental disabilities, and overall psychological functioning on a child/adolescent's ability to accept new educational material. She believes in advocating for each child's unique needs within the classroom and beyond.
Erin remains connected to the research community where she holds a passion for ASD research. Previously, as an undergraduate Erin researched joint engagement and language acquisition in toddlers. As a doctoral candidate, she analyzed the presentation of female ASD. Dr. Micali presented her doctoral research at conferences both domestically and globally. Currently, she contributes to the research community by blind editing peer-reviewed journals. Erin never leaves home without a book and ends every day with yoga. Outside of work, she enjoys kayaking, walking on nature trails, and drawing.
Ethan graduated with a BA in Psychology and MS in Counseling. He has spent almost a decade working in schools as a behavioral therapist and school counselor across all levels and grades.
Through his previous therapy and counseling experiences, Ethan has worked with a wide variety of backgrounds and challenges. These include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, OCD, Grief & Death, Autism, Down Syndrome, Identity Development, Careers and life after school, and ODD. He also has a wide knowledge of 504s and IEPs, and has attended professional development courses around LGBTQ+ youth, Trauma healing and Mindfulness techniques.
Ethan's theories and practices in therapy/counseling revolve around bringing awareness to the client and having an understanding of oneself. Implementing an individualistic approach, he uses different techniques, skills and practices (such as DBT, CBT, art therapy, workbooks/activities) to meet the client where they are at. With the goal to help find balance in day-to-day life, then figuring out how to communicate those needs to those around us in search of maintaining balance. Whether it be a longer-term challenge or just a small rough patch, he's here to help work through and support in coming out stronger.
A Licensed Psychologist with a degree in Developmental-Clinical Psychology from the University of Maine. He is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence based treatments. He treats individuals with ADHD, depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, and adjustment disorders. His goal in therapy is to reduce the impact that symptoms have on the individual's life. He has experience with individual, family, and group modalities of treatment. He completes psychoeducational assessments in order to identify a student's strengths and weaknesses. He has served as the consulting psychologist for hospitals, schools, and the Department of Corrections.
Dr. Rothstein received his Bachelor of Arts from Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. Following his graduate studies at the University of Maine, he completed his clinical internship in Pediatric Psychology at Geisinger Medical Center in Pennsylvania. At Sasco River Center, Ethan devotes his clinical expertise to the diagnosis and treatment of childhood and family issues by drawing from his training in a variety of clinical modalities. In his free time, he likes running, cooking, and spending time in or on the water with his family.
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