# Home Behavior Plans For Children > In home therapy and behavior plans for children to help behavioral issues. --- ## Main Site Navigation * [MPG Team](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/staff/) > **Description:** Meet the experienced clinicians, therapists, and mental health professionals dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care and support. * [Upcoming Events Archive](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/) > **Description:** Browse upcoming mental health events, workshops, and educational programs focused on therapy, wellness, psychology, and personal growth. * [Blog](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/) > **Description:** Latest news and press releases. * [Impartial Hearing Orders: DOE Guide](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/developmental-services/impartial-hearing-orders-doe/) > **Description:** Navigate the DOE's impartial hearing orders with MPG. Understand your rights & steps for necessary developmental services for your child. * [MPG 1:1 ABA Educational Day Program](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/developmental-services/mpg-11-aba-educational-day-program-aepp/) > **Description:** MPG's 1:1 ABA Educational Day Program is a full-day, clinic-based program for students whose needs may not be adequately supported in a traditional school setting. * [Contact Us](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/contact/) > **Description:** Contact NYC adult and child psychologists at Manhattan Psychology Group. * [Webinars](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/media-type/webinar-learning-center/) > **Description:** Explore webinar recordings and educational resources covering mental health, ABA, therapy approaches, and professional development topics. * [Search](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/search/) > **Description:** Browse our pages, articles, and team members. Can't find what you need? Try a different keyword to refine your search. * [Executive Functioning Help for Adults](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/executive-functioning-problems-adults/) > **Description:** Get expert help for executive functioning problems in adults. Specialized support at Manhattan Psychology Group. Improve your skills today—learn more. * [Understanding and Managing Anxiety in Adults](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/anxiety-in-adults/) > **Description:** Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for anxiety in adults. Read our guide to find effective strategies for managing anxiety. * [Treatments For Abuse & PTSD | NYC Psychologists](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/treating-abuse-and-ptsd/) > **Description:** Abuse, PTSD and stress symptoms and causes in adults with potential treatment options. * [Toilet Training Problems In Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/toilet-training-problems/) > **Description:** Toilet and potty training problems and how to treat them. * [Trauma & Abuse In Children - What To Look For](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/trauma-abuse-in-children-teens/) > **Description:** Signs of PTSD or abuse in children and teens and treatments to help the trauma. * [What is Selective Mutism?](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-problems-addressed/selective-mutism-specialist-long-island-city-ny-nyc/) > **Description:** Learn about Selective Mutism: causes, symptoms, and treatment from Selective Mutism Specialist in Long Island City, NY & New York, NY. * [Child Social Skills Training](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/social-skills-problems-children/) > **Description:** Enhance your child's social skills with targeted training in NYC. Effective strategies for improving social interactions and building friendships. * [School Refusal Behavior Therapy](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/children-refusing-school/) > **Description:** Discover compassionate school refusal therapy in NYC for children & adults struggling with anxiety. Get dedicated support for your family today. * [Relationship & Family Conflict Issues In Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/relationship-issues-children/) > **Description:** Helping children deal with relationship and divorce issues in the home. * [Managing Chronic Pain in Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-problems-addressed/chronic-pain/) > **Description:** Explore effective strategies for managing chronic pain in children with MPG. Learn about treatments that can improve your child's quality of life. * [Autism Therapy for Kids & Teens](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/children-teens-autism-spectrum-disorder/) > **Description:** Expert autism therapy for children & teens in NYC. Personalized treatments by top professionals at Manhattan Psychology Group. Learn more today. * [ADHD Therapist for Children & Teens](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/adhd-children-teens/) > **Description:** Get expert ADHD therapy in NYC for children & families. Improve understanding, coping skills & support with personalized treatment options. * [Anger Management Issues In Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/anger-children-teens/) > **Description:** How to know if your child or teen needs helping dealing with anger issues. * [Executive Functioning Training For Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/executive-function-training-children/) > **Description:** Executive function training for children to help with focus and meeting goals. * [Immigration Evaluations](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/testing-evaluations/immigration-visa-clearance/) > **Description:** Explore immigration visa clearance services at Manhattan Psychology Group, providing comprehensive evaluations to support immigration and visa applications. * [Psychological Testing and Evaluation Therapist](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/testing-evaluations/psychological-psychoeducational-ld-evaluation/) > **Description:** Get psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for learning disabilities at Manhattan Psychology Group. Expert assessments for children and teens. * [Teen DBT Skills Group: Effective Therapy for Adolescents](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-treatment-services/teen-dbt-skills-group/) > **Description:** Find skilled DBT specializing in working with teens, offering personalized support & strategies to manage emotions, and building coping skills. * [Workplace Consulting & Life Coaching](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/workplace-consulting/) > **Description:** Workplace assessments for employees, communications and leadership. * [Women's Health Consulting](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/womens-health-consulting/) > **Description:** Health consulting for women to help with careers, relationships, health and parenting issues. * [Stress & Anger Management Treatments For Adults](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/stress-anger-management-treatments-for-adults/) > **Description:** Helping adults in NYC deal with stress and anger management. * [Psychodynamic Psychotherapy](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/psychodynamic-psychotherapy/) > **Description:** Psychodynamic Psychotherapy to help improve mental health and build self awareness. * [DBT Therapy for Adults](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/dbt-therapy-adults/) > **Description:** Professional DBT therapy for adults in NYC. Specialized treatment by expert therapists at Manhattan Psychology Group. Explore effective DBT solutions now. * [Habit Reversal Training for Adults](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/habit-reversal-training-adults/) > **Description:** Effective habit reversal training for adults. Break free from unwanted behaviors with expert guidance at Manhattan Psychology Group. Learn more now. * [Cognitive Behavior Therapist (CBT)](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/cbt-therapy-adults/) > **Description:** CBT helps us handle tough times better. It's like a secret weapon to handle stress! Contact our Cognitive Behavior Therapist today! * [Potty Training Consultations in LIC, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/potty-training-consultations/) > **Description:** Seeking potty training help? MPG offers consultations in Long Island City, NY, to guide you through successful potty training techniques. * [TCIT in LIC, NY: Teacher-Child Training](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/teacher-child-interaction-training-tcit/) > **Description:** Enhance classroom interactions with Teacher-Child Interaction Training (TCIT) in Long Island City, NY, offered by MPG. * [Sleep Training Consultations in LIC, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/sleep-training-consultations/) > **Description:** MPG offers sleep training consultations in Long Island City, NY, to help your child achieve better sleep patterns. Start improving sleep now. * [Family Therapy Treatments In NYC](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/family-therapy/) > **Description:** Family therapy to help reconnect and strengthen the family bond. * [Teen Social Anxiety Groups Near Me in New York, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/teen-social-anxiety-groups-nyc/) > **Description:** Discover Teen Social Anxiety Groups in NYC offering expert guidance and personalized support to help teens build confidence and succeed socially. * [Upper West Side, Manhattan](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/our-locations/upper-west-side-manhattan/) > **Description:** Visit our Upper West Side location in Manhattan for personalized therapy and mental health services designed to support individuals and families. * [Manhattan Psychology Group Office Locations](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/our-locations/) > **Description:** Looking for mental health therapist or psychologist fir your child or yourself in New York City? If so, look no further than Manhattan Psychology Group! * [SPACE Treatment for Children & Adolescents](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-treatment-services/space-treatment-for-children-and-adolescents/) > **Description:** SPACE is a parent-based program for children & teens with anxiety, OCD & related issues, helping parents support kids in overcoming anxiety. * [Child and Adolescent Treatment Services](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-treatment-services/) > **Description:** Discover child and adolescent behavioral treatment services in NYC and Long Island City, including CBT, family therapy, and more. Contact us today! * [Psychological Treatments For Adults & Couples](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/adult-treatment-services/) > **Description:** MPG provides psychological treatment services for adults and couples. * [Long Island City, Queens](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/our-locations/long-island-city-queens/) > **Description:** Explore our Long Island City location in Queens, offering a range of mental health services to support individuals and families. * [MPG Locations Map](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/locations/) > **Description:** Looking for mental health therapist or psychologist fir your child or yourself in New York City? If so, look no further than Manhattan Psychology Group! * [Patient Corner](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/patient-corner/) > **Description:** All patients should submit the General forms, plus the forms that are relevant to the service(s) they are receiving. * [Fees and Payment Options](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/fees-payment-information/) > **Description:** Learn about therapy fees, insurance coverage, out of network benefits, and payment options at Manhattan Psychology Group in NYC. * [MPG Service Inquiry Form](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/mpg-service-inquiry-form/) > **Description:** Complete the MPG Service Inquiry Form to connect with our team and get matched with mental health services tailored to your needs. * [Newsletter Form](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/newsletter/) > **Description:** Monthly E-Newsletter Signup form. Enter your details and select your role to subscribe. * [Habit Reversal Training (HRT) & CBIT Specialist Near Me in New York](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/habit-reversal-training-hrt-children/) > **Description:** Reach out to our top-rated therapists for Habit Reversal Training (HRT) and CBIT treatment for tics and related behavioral concerns. * [Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Autism Treatment](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/pathological-demand-avoidance/) > **Description:** Learn about PDA and its impact on children and adolescents. Discover effective treatment approaches and strategies to support those with PDA. * [Bipolar Disorder In Children & Teens | Signs & Symptons](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/bipolar-disorder-children/) > **Description:** What is bipolar disorder? Learn the symptoms in children and treatment options. * [Executive Function Disorder Therapist Near Me in Long Island City](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/executive-functioning-problems-children/) > **Description:** Find expert executive function therapists in NYC for children, teens & adults with ADHD, learning disabilities & related challenges. * [Home Behavior Plans For Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/home-behavior-plans-children/) > **Description:** In home therapy and behavior plans for children to help behavioral issues. * [Play Therapy For Children | NYC Child Psychologists](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/play-therapy-for-children/) > **Description:** Play therapy for children ages 3-12 at Manhattan Psychology Group. * [Executive Functioning Training - For Adults](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/executive-function-training-adults/) > **Description:** Executive function training for adults to help with focus and meeting goals. * [Return To School Safety Evaluations](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/return-to-school-safety-evaluations/) > **Description:** Return to school safety evaluations for children and teens. * [Life Coaching For Better Living | NYC Life Coach](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/life-coaching/) > **Description:** Life coaching to help you create a better future and healthy mind and body. * [Mindfulness Meditation To Help Focus Attention](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/mindfulness-training/) > **Description:** Mindfulness training helps maintain focus and attention and helps you live in the moment. * [ACT Therapy for Adults](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/adult-treatment-services/acceptance-and-commitment-therapy/) > **Description:** Explore Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) at MPG. Learn how ACT can help adults live more fulfilling lives through mindfulness. * [CBT for Kids in NYC](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-children/) > **Description:** Effective cognitive behavioral therapy for children in NYC. Experienced therapists at Manhattan Psychology Group. Discover personalized CBT solutions today. * [School Refusal in Children and Adolescents](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/school-refusal-treatment/) > **Description:** Learn about school refusal causes, effects & treatment options in NYC and Long Island City. Get professional support for your child today. * [Selective Mutism Treatment](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-treatment-services/selective-mutism-treatment-for-children-adolescents/) > **Description:** Selective Mutism Treatment Specialist in Long Island City & New York, NY. MPG offers proven strategies to help children overcome * [Social Skills Training for Children in Long Island City](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/social-skill-training-long-island-city-new-york/) > **Description:** We also offer valuable support to individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, learning disabilities, and high-functioning autism spectrum disorders. * [Parent Management Training (PMT)](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/behavioral-training-for-parents/) > **Description:** PMT can help parents to 'get back on track' with a child who is not responding well to the parenting methods currently being used. * [School & Teacher Consultations](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/school-behavior-plans/) > **Description:** Licensed social workers and psychologists collaborate with parents and schools by communicating and coordinating their efforts as a team. * [CBT and Mindfulness group for Anxiety](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/cbt-and-mindfulness-group-for-anxiety/) > **Description:** Join our CBT & mindfulness group for children ages 8–12 with anxiety. Build coping skills, emotion regulation & confidence in this 9-week program. * [Mental Health Group Programs for Kids & Parents | ADHD](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/) > **Description:** Explore Mental Health Group programs for children, teens, and parents focused on anxiety, behavior, social skills, and ADHD. Join online or in person. * [Understanding Stress and Its Impact](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/adult-anger-stress-problems/) > **Description:** Our clinic offers the best stress and anger management therapy with professional assistance from top specialists and psychiatrists. * [Understanding and Managing Anxiety in Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/anxiety-in-children/) > **Description:** Discover Anxiety Disorders and help in New York. Our therapists offer compassionate support for children and adults struggling with anxiety. * [Neuropsychological Evaluations & Testing for Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/neuropsychological-testing-children/) > **Description:** Expert neuropsychological evaluations for children in NYC. Assess cognitive, emotional & behavioral development. Schedule your child's evaluation today! * [Mindsoother Therapy Center – Livingston, NJ](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/our-locations/mindsoother-therapy-center-livingston-nj/) > **Description:** Our testing team provides psychological and neuropsychological evaluations at Mindsoother Therapy Center in Livingston, NJ. * [Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT) Therapist](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/parent-child-interaction-therapy-pcit-for-older-children-ages-7-10/) > **Description:** Explore Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for older children aged 7-10 in Long Island City, NY. Learn about the benefits and process from MPG. * [Infant-Parent Psychotherapy in LIC, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/infant-parent-psychotherapy/) > **Description:** Explore infant-parent psychotherapy services offered by MPG in Long Island City, NY. Support early relationships for healthy development. * [Private Pay & Out-of-Network Services](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/developmental-services/private-pay-out-of-network/) > **Description:** Learn about MPG's private pay & out-of-network options for developmental services. Explore payment solutions for your family's needs. * [Selective Mutism Training & Certification](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/selective-mutism-training-certification/) > **Description:** Learn about selective mutism training and certification programs designed to help professionals support children with anxiety and communication challenges. * [Vision, Mission & Core Values](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/mission/) > **Description:** Our vision is to create a future where individuals and their families feel supported, connected and empowered. * [Virtual Services](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/virtual-services/) > **Description:** Access virtual mental health services, therapy, evaluations, and support from licensed clinicians through secure and convenient online appointments. * [Terms of Service](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/terms-of-service/) > **Description:** Read Manhattan Psychology Group's Terms of Service to learn about our policies, services, user rights & important legal information. * [Psychology Webinars](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/psychology-webinars/) > **Description:** Explore psychology webinars covering mental health topics, therapy approaches, clinical insights, and professional development for clinicians and caregivers. * [What is a Behavior Therapist? Their Education, Behavior & Expertise](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/mpg-360/what-is-a-behavior-therapist-their-education-experience-and-expertise/) > **Description:** Learn what behavior therapists do, including their education, clinical training, and expertise in supporting emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs. * [What to Expect - MPG360](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/mpg-360/90833-2/) > **Description:** Learn about MPG 360 services designed to provide comprehensive mental health support through personalized care, therapy, and collaborative treatment. * [MPG360](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/mpg-360/) > **Description:** Discover MPG 360, a comprehensive approach to therapy and support services designed to address a wide range of mental health and developmental need. * [Sleep Training Challenges & Help](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-problems-addressed/sleep-training-challenges/) > **Description:** Struggle with sleep training? Discover solutions to common sleep training challenges with MPG. Get tips to improve your child's sleep habits. * [White Plains, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/our-locations/whiteplains-ny/) > **Description:** Find compassionate mental health services in White Plains, NY, including therapy, evaluations, and personalized support for children and adults. * [Telehealth](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/our-locations/telehealth/) > **Description:** Access convenient and confidential telehealth services from Manhattan Psychology Group, offering virtual therapy and support from the comfort of home. * [Integrated Health Support](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/integrated-health-support/) > **Description:** Learn about integrated health support services that combine mental health care, therapy, and collaborative treatment for overall well-being. * [Support for Camps and Camp Families](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/support-for-camps-and-camp-families/) > **Description:** Seasoned child & adolescent psychologists and camp alumni providing expert support for camps and camp families with a wide range of needs. * [Developmental Screening for Autism](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/testing-evaluations/abbreviated-developmental-evaluation-for-autism/) > **Description:** Learn about abbreviated autism developmental evaluations at Manhattan Psychology Group for early identification, focused assessment & support. * [Child & Adolescents Problems We Treat](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-problems-treated/) > **Description:** See what problems are treated for children and teens at Manhattan Psychology Group in NYC. * [Teens and Screens Group](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/teens-and-screens-group/) > **Description:** Join Teens and Screens, a 6-week group helping teens manage screen time, social media, anxiety, depression, and body image concerns. * [Teen Social Hour Group in NYC](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/social-group-hour-for-teens/) > **Description:** Join our Teen Social Hour Group in NYC for high schoolers (14-18). Structured outings, clinician support, and peer interaction. Boost social skills now. * [Support Group for Parents of Tweens](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/parent-support-group/) > **Description:** Join our Parent Support Group at Manhattan Psychology Group for guidance, resources, and community support in navigating the challenges of parenting. * [Executive Functioning Skills Group](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/executive-functioning-skills-group/) > **Description:** Join our dynamic Executive Functioning Skills Group for children. Foster social learning, peer support, and skill generalization. Limited spots. Register now! * [Behavioral Tutoring](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/educational-services/behavioral-tutoring/) > **Description:** Explore behavioral tutoring services offering personalized support to improve academic skills and behavior in a positive, structured setting. * [Developmental (0-3) & Attachment Evaluation](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/testing-evaluations/developmental-0-3-attachment-evaluation/) > **Description:** Learn about developmental & attachment evaluations for ages 0–3 at Manhattan Psychology Group to support early emotional & social development. * [Bilingual Evaluations & Testing in Westchester, New York](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/testing-evaluations/bilingual-evaluation-testing-in-new-york/) > **Description:** Learn about bilingual psychological evaluations and testing services in New York for children, teens, and adults in a supportive, multilingual setting. * [Autism Evaluations](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/testing-evaluations/autism-diagnostic-evaluation/) > **Description:** Autism Evaluations at Manhattan Psychology Group, providing comprehensive assessments to support accurate diagnoses and personalized care. * [Auditory Processing Disorder](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/auditory-processing-disorder/) > **Description:** Our skilled doctors, therapists, and can treat and test for Central Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). The clinic offers specialized care and testing. * [Insurance Coordinator - Out-of-Network Benefits](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/free-insurance-coordinator-services/out-of-network-benefits/) > **Description:** Learn about out-of-network insurance benefits, reimbursement options, and support services to help make mental health care more accessible. * [Insurance Coordinator - Alternative Options](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/free-insurance-coordinator-services/alternative-options/) > **Description:** Explore alternative mental health care options, support resources, and treatment pathways tailored to individual needs and personal well-being. * [Adult Mental Health Services](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/adult-psychology/) > **Description:** Adult Psychology services are available at Manhattan Psychology Group. See professional help for you or a loved one with our psychologists. * [Academic Tutoring Services | SEIT & SETSS Services](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/academic-tutoring-services/) > **Description:** Academic tutoring services to help children and teens improve in school. Including providers for SEIT and SETSS. * [Resources To Help Understand Your Child or Teenager](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/child-adolescent-therapy/) > **Description:** A complete resource to help you better understand your child or teenagers unique needs. All articles are written by experience child and teen psychologists. * [Parenting & Family Therapy News](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/parenting-family-therapy-nyc/) > **Description:** Learn techniques and strategies to improve your parenting skills and build a better bond. Articles include symptoms, treatments and at home resources. * [Adult & Couples Therapy](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/adult-couples-therapy-nyc/) > **Description:** Learn techniques from a NYC marriage and couples therapist to improve your relationships with spouses, family and children. * [A Clinical Partner for Special Education Attorneys in New York City](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/a-clinical-partner-for-special-education-attorneys-in-new-york-city/) > **Description:** Learn how clinical partnerships support special education attorneys with evaluations, expert guidance, and mental health insights for student advocacy. * [ABA Webinars](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/aba-webinars/) > **Description:** Browse ABA webinars covering behavior analysis, autism support, therapy strategies, and professional training for clinicians, educators, and parents. * [Mental Health Archives](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/mentalhealth/) > **Description:** Explore mental health articles, therapy insights, coping strategies, and expert guidance to support emotional wellness and personal growth. * [Behavior Therapy Archives](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/behavior-therapy/) > **Description:** Explore behavior therapy techniques, treatment approaches, and expert insights to support emotional growth, coping skills, and lasting change. * [ABA Archives](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/aba/) > **Description:** Explore ABA therapy resources, behavior analysis strategies, and expert insights focused on improving communication, learning, and daily skills. * [Insurance Coordinator](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/free-insurance-coordinator-services/) > **Description:** At MPG, we understand that finding the right services for your family's unique needs can be a daunting process. * [Radio/Podcast](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/media-type/radio/) > **Description:** Manhattan Psychology Group team members in radio interviews and podcasts. * [Home](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/) > **Description:** Manhattan Psychology Group provides expert therapy, mental health services, psychological testing, and compassionate care for children, teens, and adults. * [Business Cards - Manhattan Psychology Group](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/business-cards/) > **Description:** Access business card resources and contact information for our clinicians and mental health professionals in one convenient location. * [Learning Center & Media](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/press-media/) > **Description:** Read the latest press coverage, media mentions, expert insights, and news featuring mental health topics, research, and professional expertise. * [Webinar Detail](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/webinars/webinar-detail) > **Description:** Read the latest press coverage, media mentions, expert insights, and news featuring mental health topics, research, and professional expertise. * [Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) -Treatments & Symptoms](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/oppositional-defiant-disorder-odd-treatments-symptoms/) > **Description:** Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) treatments and symptoms. * [Best Practices For Raising Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/best-practices/) > **Description:** If you are looking for information on discipline or treatments for childhood issues, our best practices area has articles that can help you. * [Holistic Health Articles & Tips For Better Living](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/holistic-health/) > **Description:** Holistic health is an option that is available to both adults and children. Find out some simple holistic techniques that can affect mental health. * [Social Skills Training New From NYC Child Psychologists](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/category/social-skills-training-nyc/) > **Description:** Find out more about social skills training and how our NYC psychologists can help improve your child's social skills. * [Videos](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/media-type/videos/) > **Description:** Video segments of our services and teaching examples from Manhattan Psychology Group. * [Media Mentions](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/media-type/articles/) > **Description:** See the articles containing interviews and quotes from Manhattan Psychology Group team members. * [Privacy Policy](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/privacy-policy/) > **Description:** Review the Privacy Policy of Manhattan Psychology Group to understand how we protect your personal information and ensure confidentiality in our services. * [Tics, Tourettes & Compulsive Behaviors In Children](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/tourettes-in-children/) > **Description:** Treating Tics, Tourette's & Trichotillomania in children and teens. * [What is Social Communication Pragmatic Disorder?](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/social-issues-children/) > **Description:** Do you feel your child struggles with verbal communication? At MPG we can help them to better engage and feel comfortable with communication. * [Sleep Disorder Specialist in New York, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/sleeping-problems-children/) > **Description:** Our expert sleep therapist offers the best treatment for sleep disorders, including insomnia. We serve patients from Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY * [Find a Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Therapist](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd-children/) > **Description:** Struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) repetitive thoughts causing anxiety? Connect with our expert OCD therapists in NYC. * [Depression Therapist Near Me in Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/depression-children-teens/) > **Description:** Get compassionate depression therapy in NYC. Take the first step toward healing, recovery & emotional well-being with expert support. * [Tics, Tourettes & Compulsive Behaviors In Adult](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/tourettes-tics-in-adults/) > **Description:** If you are an adult struggling with Tics, Tourettes or Compulsive behaviors in the NYC area, MPG has the experience to help you. * [Relationship, Divorce & Separation Issues In Adults](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/relationship-issues-adults/) > **Description:** Helping adults deal with divorce, separation and relationship issues. * [Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Therapist Near Me in New York, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/treating-ocd-adults/) > **Description:** Get expert OCD therapy in NYC. Family history can increase OCD risk—our specialists provide effective support for children, teens & adults. * [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) Concerns](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/lesbian-gay-transgender-emotional-issues/) > **Description:** Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) counseling. * [Depression and Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrist in NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/adult-problems-addressed/depression-bipolar/) > **Description:** Connect with a skilled therapist specializing in depression and bipolar disorder to receive personalized support and effective treatment strategies. * [Expert ADHD Psychiatrist Near Me in Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/add-adhd-in-adults/) > **Description:** Connect with experienced ADHD psychiatrists in NYC for evaluations & personalized treatment plans to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. * [Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT) Therapist for (Ages 2-7)](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/parent-child-interaction-therapy-pcit/) > **Description:** Discover the benefits of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for improving parent-child relationships. Learn more with Manhattan Psychology Group experts. * [Homework Help & Tutoring For Children in NYC](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/tutoring-homework-behavioral-therapy/) > **Description:** Tutoring and homework help by licensed psychologists in NYC. * [Adult & Couples Problems MPG Treats](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/adult-problems-treated/) > **Description:** Learn about developmental & attachment evaluations for ages 0–3 at Manhattan Psychology Group to support early emotional & social development. * [Parent Training for Behavioral Difficulties in Kids](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/parent-training-for-children-with-behavioral-difficulties/) > **Description:** Learn effective strategies for managing children's behavioral difficulties with expert-led parent training from Manhattan Psychology Group. * [Parent Training for Anxious Children: SPACE](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/parent-training-for-children-with-anxiety-space/) > **Description:** Join our SPACE program for effective parent training to support children with anxiety. Expert strategies from Manhattan Psychology Group. * [Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT) Therapy for Toddlers](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-treatment-services/parent-child-interaction-therapy-toddlers-pcit-t-ages-1-2/) > **Description:** Discover specialized PCIT therapists for toddlers, offering tailored support & strategies to enhance parent-child bonding, communication, & early development. * [School Based Shadow Program In Manhattan](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-adolescent-treatment-services-long-island-city-new-york/school-based-shadow-program/) > **Description:** MPG offers a school based shadow program with a licensed behaviorist to help your child improve in school. Serving Manhattan, NYC. * [Educational Support Services for Mental & Behavioral Health in NY](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/educational-services/) > **Description:** MPG offers ABA therapy for children, teens & adults with speech, emotional & behavioral challenges in NYC. Call 646-389-4112. * [Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Near Me in NYC | ABA Therapy](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/applied-behavioral-analysis/) > **Description:** MPG offers ABA therapy for children, teens & adults with eating, speech, emotional & behavioral challenges in NYC. Call 646-389-4112. * [Testing & Evaluations](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/testing-evaluations/) > **Description:** Manhattan Psychology Group offers psychological, developmental & educational evaluations for children, teens & adults in NYC. Call 646-389-4112. * [Marriage Counseling & Couples Therapy In NYC](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/marriage-counseling-couples-therapy/) > **Description:** Marriage counseling and couples therapy services in NYC. * [Parent Training for Children with ADHD and Disruptive Behavior](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/special-programs/parent-training-for-children-with-adhd/) > **Description:** Discover effective parent training for managing ADHD in children. Learn strategies from MPG experts to support your child's development. * [Treating Anxiety in Children With The "Coping Cat" Program](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/treating-anxiety-children/) > **Description:** Explore effective strategies for treating anxiety in children. Learn from MPG experts to help your child manage anxiety and thrive. * [Social Skills Training Groups For Children in NYC](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/social-skills-training-groups/) > **Description:** Join our social skills training groups for children and teens to enhance communication and social interaction. Expert-led programs at MPG. * [Mental Health Therapist for Children & Adults Near Me in New York](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/child-psychology/) > **Description:** Need child psychology services? our professional psychologists at Manhattan Psychology Group are here to help your child get back on track. * [Frequently Asked Questions | NYC Psychologists](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/frequently-asked-questions/) > **Description:** Frequently asked questions about Manhattan Psychology Group. * [Careers - Manhattan Psychology Group](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/our-team/jobs/) > **Description:** Explore rewarding career opportunities at Manhattan Psychology Group. Join our team of dedicated clinicians and mental health professionals. * [Site Map](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/sitemap/) > **Description:** Navigate the site easily with our site map. Find quick links to all site sections on one page. * [HIPAA Notice](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/hipaa-notice/) > **Description:** THIS NOTICE DESCRIBES HOW MEDICAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOU MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN GET ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions - Are DBT skills only for managing negative emotions? > DBT skills are not just for managing negative emotions but it also helps enhance positive emotions, build resilience, and improving overall emotional well-being. - Are Executive Functioning Skills Important for Academic Success? > Yes! Executive functioning skills are crucial for academic success. They help students stay organized, manage their time effectively, and make informed decisions. These skills enable students to plan, focus, and complete their tasks, which are vital for achieving academic goals. - Are there different types of APD? > Yes, APD is categorized into various subtypes based on the specific auditory processing difficulties. These subtypes can include deficits in auditory discrimination, temporal processing, auditory decoding, or auditory memory. - Are there specific causes of Behavioral Sleep Disorders in Children? > Several factors can contribute to the development of these disorders, including environmental factors, inconsistent sleep schedules, and demanding lifestyles. A childs environment and caregiver involvement can also play a role. - At what age does ADHD typically appear, and how can I distinguish it from common childhood behaviors? > ADHD often emerges between the ages of 3 and 6, but its important to differentiate it from normal childhood behaviors. - Can ADHD be managed without medication? > Yes, ADHD can be managed without the use of medication. This is when people use Behavioral therapies, counseling, and lifestyle adjustments that can be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. Medication is just one of several treatment options. - Can adults have ADHD? > Yes! ADHD can persist into adulthood. Approximately 10 million adults in the United States are believed to have ADHD. In adulthood, ADHD may coexist with other conditions like depression, mood disorders, conduct disorders, and substance abuse. Adults often experience chronic feelings of blame, guilt, or frustration. - Can adults with ADHD benefit from Counseling or Therapy? > Yes, seeking counseling or therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. Cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) and our Executive Function Training can help individuals develop coping strategies, time management skills, and emotional control. - Can adults with ASD benefit from therapy and support services, or are these primarily for children? > Adults with ASD can benefit from therapy and support services. Many services are available to help adults manage daily life, and improve social skills. We serve patients from Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY. - Can adults with ASD live independently and have successful careers? > Yes, many adults with ASD live independently and have successful careers. With the right support and accommodations, individuals with ASD can excel in various fields and lead fulfilling lives. - Can Anxiety Disorders impact physical health? > If Anxiety disorders are untreated and ignored it can lead to other health complications/issues, including depression, substance abuse, and physical health problems. Seeking help early is crucial for one's mental health. - Can APD affect emotional well-being? > Yes, having a tough time understanding verbal information can lead to feelings of frustration, low self-esteem, anxiety, or social withdrawal in children and teens with APD. - Can APD be mistaken for hearing loss or other auditory impairments? > Yes, since the symptoms of APD may mirror those of hearing loss or other auditory issues, APD can be mistaken for these conditions. However, unlike hearing loss, individuals with APD typically have normal hearing abilities. - Can APD be outgrown or cured? > APD is a lifelong condition. However, with proper intervention and therapy, individuals can learn coping strategies and improve their auditory processing skills, enhancing their ability to manage and function effectively in daily situations. - Can ASD be diagnosed in adults, or is it only recognized in children? > ASD can be diagnosed in adults as well. While its often recognized in childhood, some individuals may receive a diagnosis later in life as they seek answers for challenges theyve faced. - Can Behavioral sleep disorders impact social interactions and relationships? > Yes! Sleep disturbances can lead to mood swings and irritability, which can affect relationships with peers and family members. Adolescents with behavioral sleep disorders may experience social difficulties. - Can children outgrow Depression on their own? > While some children may experience temporary low moods, clinical depression typically requires treatment. It is not advisable to rely on children to outgrow it without any sort of intervention. It is better to seek treatment as soon as possible before it gets any worse. We serve patients from Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY - Can children with OCD lead normal lives after treatment? > With proper treatment and support, children with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. - Can Depression in children be prevented? > While it can not always be prevented, you can reduce the risk by creating a supportive and open environment at home. Talking to your child about any challenges is helpful. Helping your child build strong social connections, and teaching them how to manage stress. - Can I pay with my credit card? > Yes, you can pay by credit or debit card with no additional credit card fee. Please contact a member of our team at info@manhattanpsychologygroup.com to provide consent to charge your credit card within 24 hours of a service. Some families choose to have us charge their credit card for them automatically for each session. If this is your preference, please let us know. - Can I speak to the therapist before my first intake appointment? > We have a process for welcoming new patients into our practice. This begins with the patient making first contact and then our practice coordinators following up to gather and give information to make sure we are the best fit. If all checks out, then we'll schedule the first intake appointment with your provider. If, during that process, something goes awry and the patient would like to speak to the assigned provider before the first appointment, we try to accommodate such requests. - Can Medication help with Executive Functioning Challenges? > While no medication can eliminate executive functioning challenges, some evidence suggests that stimulant medications may provide benefits for specific aspects of executive dysfunction. However, therapy and coaching are essential for improving executive functioning skills. - Can OCD co-occur with other conditions in children and adults? > Yes, OCD often co-occurs with other issues such as anxiety, tics, ADHD, and specific behavior patterns (personality disorders) In childhood, it may be linked to tics and ADHD-like behaviors. - Can OCD go away on its own without treatment? > Without help, OCD often doesnt go away and can worsen over time. Treatment is essential for managing OCD and improving a childs quality of life. - Can PCIT be adapted for older children, up to 10 years old? > Yes, PCIT can still be beneficial for children up to 10 years old. In such cases, there are special sessions where the child's voice is heard during treatment. Although the overall treatment process remains the same, the content and skills taught to parents are adjusted to better suit older children. - Can PCIT therapy help improve parent-child relationships? > Absolutely, PCIT is effective not only in addressing disruptive behaviors in children but also in nurturing and strengthening the parent-child relationship. It promotes warmth, enthusiasm, security, and newfound parental confidence. The case study provided illustrates the positive transformation that can occur through PCIT therapy. We serve patients from Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY - Can school refusal be prevented? > While it may not always be preventable, early intervention is crucial. We try to help parents create a supportive environment, address academic or social difficulties promptly, and provide emotional support to help reduce the risk of school refusal. - Can Selective Mutism be fixed? > Yes, it can. The earlier we help, the better. We have special ways to make it easier for children to talk in different situations. - Can Selective Mutism be fixed? > Yes, it can. The earlier we help, the better. We have special ways to make it easier for children to talk in different situations. - Can social skills deficits be mistaken for shyness or introversion? > Yes, sometimes social skills deficits are mistaken for shyness or introversion. While shyness is a personality trait, social skills deficits go beyond shyness, impacting ones ability to navigate social interactions effectively. - Can Stress result in Anger Issues? > Yes, often stress manifests as anger. When stress becomes chronic, it can lead to irritability, impatience, and difficulty controlling emotions, resulting in increased anger. - Can the therapist prescribe medication? > No, but we work with many excellent psychiatrists who can meet with you to discuss medication and issue prescriptions as part of your treatment. - Do some children struggle with social skills? > Yes, some children and adolescents face challenges with their social skills. For them, connecting with others and forming friendships can be difficult, whether at school, in sports, or with peers. - How are services billed and funded? > We offer flexible funding options, including hourly and tuition-based billing, depending on the student's order and start date. We are currently accepting cash pay, transferable orders, and new orders. Related services such as speech, PT, and OT are coordinated on-site, with providers billing the DOE directly. - How are the testing results presented? > The testing results are presented over one hour with parents (or the individual if over 18). After feedback, a comprehensive report is provided to parents/patients outlining how the patient completed each aspect of testing, the diagnoses, the recommendations, and time to answer parent/individual questions. - How can I find out more or talk about treatment? > If you want to learn more about treating Selective Mutism or want to discuss options, please click [here](insert link) for more info and to get in touch with our experts. - How can I find out more or talk about treatment? > If you want to learn more about treating Selective Mutism or want to discuss options, please click [here](insert link) for more info and to get in touch with our experts. - How can I learn more about PCIT or schedule a consultation? > If you're interested in gaining more information about PCIT or discussing how it could be beneficial for your child, please contact us. We are here to provide you with additional details and assist you in scheduling a consultation. We serve patients from Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY - How can I learn more about PCIT or schedule a consultation? > If you'd like to gather more information about PCIT or discuss how it might benefit your child, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to provide you with additional details and assist you in scheduling a consultation. - How can I spot signs of OCD in children? > Early signs include a strong need for things to be done a certain way, seeking constant reassurance, repairing tasks excessively, following lengthy routines, and having specific rules for activities like bedtime or dinner. - How can I tell if my child might have ADHD? > While occasional distractions and bursts of energy are normal in kids, watch out for these signs: difficulty completing tasks, not paying attention when spoken to, trouble focusing on activities, careless mistakes, and organizational challenges. If these behaviors persist and interfere with daily life, it might be ADHD. - How can Parents and Teachers support children with Executive Functioning challenges? > Parents and teachers can play a significant role in supporting children with executive functioning challenges. Communication, structure, and patience are essential. They can work together to create consistent routines, provide clear instructions, and offer positive reinforcement to help children improve their skills. - How can school refusal be treated and managed? > Addressing school refusal early is crucial. Treatment may involve: Educational Support: Providing additional assistance with schoolwork. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Teaching children to manage their feelings and thoughts effectively. Parent-Teacher Interventions: Collaboration between parents and teachers to find solutions. Gradual Exposure: Helping the child become accustomed to the school environment step by step. Relaxation Training: Teaching relaxation techniques for anxiety management. Social Skills Development: Improving the child's ability to make friends and interact with peers. Reward Systems: Implementing a reward system for regular school attendance. Goal-Setting: Setting achievable goals for school attendance. Anxiety Management: Teaching the child how to cope with anxious thoughts and fears. - How can social skills training enhance Executive Functioning? > Social skills training can help individuals respond appropriately in social situations, improving their adaptability and ability to adjust their behavior based on social cues. - How can stress management techniques help with Anger Issues? > Techniques such as identifying stress triggers, recognizing negative thought patterns, altering perceptions, and learning relaxation practices help manage stress, consequently alleviating anger. - How Can Stress Management Techniques Improve Overall Well-Being? > Implementing stress management techniques not only reduces stress-related anger but also enhances emotional resilience, Promotes better sleep, and fosters a more positive outlook on life. - How can this affect children’s mental health? > Sleep disturbances can lead to negative mood and exacerbate psychiatric issues in a child and adolescent's life. Those with conditions like Autism, ADHD, or mood-anxiety disorders are more likely to experience sleep disturbances. - How can we help a child with school refusal? > When a child constantly avoids school for an extended period, there are ways to help them. The process may include getting them back to school and addressing issues like anxiety. The treatment plans vary based on the severity of the situation (mild, moderate, or severe) and typically last for about six weeks. - How can you tell if someone has Selective Mutism? > Signs include long periods of not talking in certain places, being very anxious, avoiding others, extreme shyness, doing things repetitively, feeling sad, struggling with learning and talking and having issues with going to the bathroom. - How can you tell if someone has Selective Mutism? > Signs include long periods of not talking in certain places, being very anxious, avoiding others, extreme shyness, doing things repetitively, feeling sad, struggling with learning and talking and having issues with going to the bathroom. - How common is ASD in the United States? > According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 68 American children falls within the autism spectrum. Its worth noting that ASD may vary differently in girls than in boys. - How do I know if my child is a good fit? > The best way to determine whether the program is appropriate is to complete our inquiry form. A member of our team will connect with you to discuss your child's needs, answer preliminary questions, and explain the next steps. The program may be a good fit for students who require full-time 1:1 support, have struggled to make progress in traditional school settings, or are currently receiving or at risk of receiving home instruction. Complete Our Inquiry Form - How do I talk to my child about their depression? > It is important to note that you have to approach the topic with care and understanding. Listen to their feelings, assure them that you as their parent are there to support them, and consider involving a mental health professional for guidance. - How do you collaborate with other providers? > Our therapists are eager to work with the other providers on your childs team to create the most meaningful, well rounded therapy experience possible. We collaborate actively with speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, counselors, feeding therapists, etc. We will also work directly with tutors, respite providers, or teachers. Collaborative meetings may occur on an as-needed basis and your therapy team should be alerted if you feel the need for additional collaboration is needed at any time. - How do you collaborate with other providers? > Our therapists are eager to work with the other providers on your childs team to create the most meaningful, well rounded therapy experience possible. We collaborate actively with speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, counselors, feeding therapists, etc. We will also work directly with tutors, respite providers, or teachers. Collaborative meetings may occur on an as-needed basis and your therapy team should be alerted if you feel the need for additional collaboration is needed at any time. - How do you confirm it's Selective Mutism? > To be sure, we work with your child's doctor, school, and speech therapist. We check their health, and schoolwork, and get feedback from teachers. A speech therapist looks at how they talk and understand language. And our Selective Mutism (SM) experts do a complete evaluation. - How do you confirm it's Selective Mutism? > To be sure, we work with your child's doctor, school, and speech therapist. We check their health, and schoolwork, and get feedback from teachers. A speech therapist looks at how they talk and understand language. And our Selective Mutism (SM) experts do a complete evaluation. - How does ADHD affect families? > ADHD can impact not only individuals but also their families. Coping with behavioral challenges can lead to increased family stress, depression, and conflicts. Seeking treatment for a child with ADHD and support from family members can promote understanding, coping strategies, and better education within the family. - How Does ASD Impact Families? > Families of children with ASD, particularly mothers, often experience significant stress. Seeking treatment benefits not only the child with ASD but also supports understanding, coping mechanisms, and educational support within the family. ASD affects the entire family, and addressing its challenges collectively can lead to more positive outcomes. - How does CBT help, and what does it involve? > CBT is like a toolbox filled with skills to improve emotional well-being. It focuses on reducing intense emotions and mental challenges by addressing three key areas: Tricky Thoughts: Correcting thoughts that bring you down or are inaccurate. Not-So-Great Ways: Changing unhelpful strategies for handling difficult situations. Unintended Actions: Preventing behaviors that contribute to feeling worse. CBT is not just about listening; it's about taking action. Skills learned in CBT sessions can often be practiced at home. It's akin to a goal-setting game, working step by step to solve problems. For example, if someone is extremely scared of dogs, CBT helps them face their fear incrementally, like levels in a game, through a process called 'exposure.' Sometimes, parents may also be involved to enhance the effectiveness of therapy. - How does Executive Function develop in individuals? > Over time your Executive function skills develop. Impulse control and working memory begin in infancy, and as children grow, they acquire skills like goal-directed behavior, attention, and self-control. Mental flexibility starts to match that of adults around age 8-10 and continues to improve into young adulthood. - How does invoicing work? > For DOE funded services, MPG will deliver a monthly invoice to parents/families for their review and signature, before sending the invoice to the DOE for payment. All invoice signing is done electronically via docusign, so no printing/scanning is necessary to complete signature. - How does OCD affect the brain? > OCD tricks the brain into excessive focus on one thing, even when individuals know it doesnt make sense. It's like a strong, uncontrollable feeling that they cant ignore. - How does out of network reimbursement work? > All ABA services (Regardless of in or out of network) require a pre-authorization as well as an ongoing 6 month authorization. The MPG team will handle both of these, and all families with paid balances will receive a monthly receipt with all the appropriate codes required for reimbursement. Insurance companies will only reimburse services for individuals with diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). All authorizations require a comprehensive diagnostic assessment (within the last two years) from a neuropsychological evaluation or developmental pediatrician report - How does PCIT work? > In PCIT, parents and children engage in therapy sessions with a psychologist. This therapy has been backed by over 150 studies and is effective in addressing various issues in children, including aggression, non-compliance, disruptiveness, and challenging behavior. Parents learn essential skills in a playroom, guided by a therapist who provides real-time feedback through an earpiece. This approach accelerates the learning process while allowing children to focus on play rather than the therapist's presence. - How Does Stress Affect Mental health? > Chronic stress can exacerbate anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. It impacts cognitive function, leading to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and decision-making challenges. - How does Stress impact daily life? > Stress is a natural reaction, but prolonged stress can lead to emotional symptoms like anxiety, anger, and depression. It can also affect one's sleep patterns, energy levels, and overall behavior. - How is CBT explained to children? > CBT is introduced to children in a creative and engaging manner, often using metaphors to make learning enjoyable. It helps kids understand and apply CBT concepts effectively. - How is social skills training provided? > Social skills training follows a step-by-step approach: Assessment and interview: We talk with caregivers and oversee the client to identify areas for improvement. Setting Goals: We try to define general and specific goals for the training. Teaching and Modeling: We use various methods like stories, playtime, visuals, and discussions to teach specific social skills. Role-Play and Feedback: Practicing skills in simulated situations and providing feedback. Homework: With sessions usually lasting an hour, and clients would receive exercises to practice skills at home and in the community. - How is this different from a typical ABA program? > Traditional ABA services are often delivered in discrete sessions, such as at home or in a clinic. MPG's program provides continuous 1:1 ABA within a full-day, clinic-based setting. Students receive support throughout the day from master's-level clinicians, with BCBA supervision and hands-on involvement. Academic and functional skill support is aligned with the student's IEP goals. - How long are tutoring sessions? > Tutoring sessions typically last between 1-2 hours, and may occur multiple times per week depending on the students individual needs. - How long do children typically attend tutoring sessions? > While the total duration is variable, the average length of tutoring services is approximately one year. - How long does CBT usually take? > CBT typically involves a relatively short process, ranging from 6 to 20 sessions. It explores the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, bodily reactions, and behaviors. What you think about a situation can influence how you feel and act in response to it, and CBT helps individuals learn to manage situations in constructive ways based on their thoughts. - How long does it take to see improvements in social skills? > The timeline for improvement varies from individual to individual. Some may see noticeable changes relatively quickly, while others may require more time and consistent practice. Patience and ongoing support are essential. - How long does OCD treatment usually take? > The duration of treatment varies, but its often a structured process lasting several weeks to help children overcome their OCD symptoms. - How long does PCIT therapy typically take? > The duration of PCIT treatment varies for each family. Families continue with treatment until parents demonstrate mastery of the skills and witness improvements in their child's behavior. On average, PCIT lasts for approximately 16 weeks, involving one-hour sessions held weekly. - How long does PCIT treatment typically last? > The duration of PCIT treatment varies based on parents' concerns and the skills required to manage their toddlers' behavior. Generally, it takes around 8 to 12 sessions, ideally twice a week, to help parents master these skills. - How long does PCIT typically last? > The duration of PCIT varies from family to family. It continues until parents feel confident in using the skills effectively, observe positive changes in their child's behavior, and are sure about guiding their child independently. Typically, PCIT lasts for around 16 weeks, with one-hour sessions held weekly. - How long does staffing take? > We can typically schedule intakes in 2-3 weeks. Typically, staffing takes 6-8 weeks. - How long does staffing take? > We can typically schedule intakes in 2-3 weeks. Typically, staffing takes 6-8 weeks. - Important to note when submitting your receipts and claim forms for reimbursement from your insurance company: > When submitting your claims and our receipt for reimbursement, make sure to note to your insurance company that checks should be issued to the patient, and not to the provider. We cannot endorse, cash and reimburse patients for checks mailed to our office made payable to our company. We will mail them back to the insurance company. - Is CBT suitable for children with developmental or learning disabilities? > Yes, CBT can be adapted to meet the needs of children with developmental or learning disabilities. Therapists with expertise in this area can customize CBT techniques to ensure they are accessible and effective for children with diverse needs. At MPG we are experienced in working with children with disabilities to provide the most appropriate support. - Is DBT suitable for all age groups? > DBT can be beneficial for individuals of all age groups, from children to adults, in managing their emotions and building good coping skills. - Is Depression in children the same as in adults? > Depression in children can manifest differently from adults. Children may not always express what theyre feeling in the same way adults can, which can make diagnosis and understanding challenging. - Is full recovery from Anxiety Disorders possible? > While complete recovery isnt guaranteed, many people experience significant symptom reduction with proper treatment and support. - Is the testing in-person or virtual? > The intake and feedback portion of testing is via TeleHealth. The testing portion itself is generally in-person. - Is there a cancellation policy for Teen Social Anxiety Groups? > Yes, there is a cancellation policy in place. There are no refunds or makeup dates for the class, and full payment is required upfront. Please be aware that due to the pandemic, groups may be moved to virtual sessions depending on the rate of positive cases in Manhattan and state and CDC guidelines and recommendations. - Is there a cure for OCD, and what are the treatment options? > While OCD may not have a cure, effective treatments are available. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) is a powerful approach that changes thought patterns and behaviors, reducing anxiety and fear. Sometimes, doctors combine therapy with antidepressants (SSRIs) to enhance results. In certain cases, serotonin-based medications or cognitive behavioral therapy can help normalize brain circuits linked to OCD. The standard treatment duration is usually 13-20 weekly sessions. - Is there a link between Executive Function challenges and other conditions? > Yes, executive functioning challenges often coexist with other conditions, such as ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, mood disorders, fetal alcohol syndrome, or brain injuries. Addressing these coexisting conditions can help improve executive functioning. - Is there a waiting room at the office? > Yes. All of our offices have waiting rooms. - Is this program a school? > No. MPG's 1:1 ABA Educational Day Program is a clinical program, not an accredited school. Students participate in a full-day structured program and receive academic and functional skill support aligned with their IEP goals, along with related services as appropriate. MPG works with families, school districts, and legal teams to support appropriate placement and funding. - My insurance says I can't be reimbursed for some of the services on my receipt. > Some of the services our office provides such as behavioral support monitoring, telephone and email consultation, report writing, observations, behavior plans, documentation requests, traveling for appointments out of office, and other non-direct patient care services are not typically reimbursed by insurance. You should consider these services as an out-of-pocket expense that might not be reimbursed by your insurance. This will be in writing before you start treatment and your therapist will speak with you before providing these services so you are aware of charges before they occur. - Types of Bipolar Disorders? > There are different types of bipolar disorders, including Bipolar I, Bipolar II, Bipolar NOS (not otherwise specified), cyclothymia, and rapid cycling. Each has distinct characteristics. - What ages do you serve? > The program serves students approximately 521 years old with complex behavioral and learning needs. Group activities are organized based on age and support needs. - What ages of children can benefit from Tutoring? > School aged children or children receiving some form of academic instruction are all eligible for tutoring. Typically, tutoring occurs between the ages of 5-17 years old. - What are anxiety disorders? > Anxiety disorders are conditions where individuals experience intense and long-lasting anxiety, often lasting more than six months. They go beyond normal stress and can disrupt daily life. - What are codes to request reimbursement from insurance? > Tutoring is not reimbursable through insurance. If interested in tutoring services through MPG Tutoring, we take orders through impartial hearings via the DOE or private pay as payment. - What are common Behavioral Sleep disorders in Children? > Common Behavioral Sleep disorders are limit-setting sleep disorders, sleep-onset Association Disorders, Inadequate sleep hygiene syndrome, and Insufficient sleep syndrome. Each of these has distinct characteristics affecting a childs sleep. - What are common Signs of Executive Functioning Disorder (EFD)? > Signs of EFD can include poor time management, planning and organization difficulties, attention-related issues, switching between tasks, memory problems, disorganization, impulse control challenges, trouble prioritizing tasks, and difficulty in self-monitoring behavior and progress. - What are Depression and Bipolar Disorder? > Depression and Bipolar disorder are mood disorders that affect the way people think and behave and how they feel at certain times or for long periods. Its important to understand that these conditions cannot be easily solved and often require treatment. They dont just go away over time. It is better to seek help before it affects your relationships, school, or work performance. - What are social skills, and why are they important? > Social skills are essential tools that enable us to build and maintain meaningful relationships. They help us navigate social situations with confidence, make good decisions, and communicate effectively. Mastering social interactions impacts academic success, behavior, family and social relationships, and participation in extracurricular activities. - What are some examples of social skills taught in training? > Social skills training covers various skills, including: Greetings: Saying hello and interacting politely and with confidence. Asking for Help: Requesting assistance or guidance and accepting when needed. Following Directions: Listening carefully and doing what is asked. Sharing/Taking Turns: Sharing with others and allowing others to participate. Identifying Emotions: Recognizing and understanding different feelings one may have. Personal Space: Knowing how close or far to stand from others. Making Eye Contact: Looking into someones eye when being addressed or talking. Initiating conversations: Starting a friendly conversation - What are some examples of weekly social anxiety skills covered in these groups? > Throughout the program, we focus on essential skills to address social anxiety, including asking for help, expressing opinions confidently, collaborating within a group, initiating or joining conversations, using web cameras for virtual interactions with family, friends, teachers, and classmates, attending social events in-person or virtually, placing takeout orders or ordering food in-person, delivering presentations both in-person and virtually, and engaging in group discussions or debates. - What are specific CPT codes I can ask my insurer about? > The initial intake appointment: 90791 typically 60 minutes. For treatment sessions: 90834 for 45 minutes, 90837 for 60 minutes, 90846 for family therapy without the patient, 90847 for family therapy or home observation including couples therapy where the patient is present. For group: 90853 or 90849 Telehealth codes: 90791 (95), 90834 (95), 90837 (95), 90846 (95), 90847 (95). - What are Teen Social Anxiety Groups? > Teen Social Anxiety Groups are designed to provide vital support to teenagers who grapple with Social Anxiety, a condition that can make socializing in typical settings challenging. These groups offer teens exposure to various social situations, helping them build confidence and succeed in interactions with peers, strangers, family, and friends. - What are the advantages of social skills training? > Social skills training offers several benefits: Connecting with peers Better relationships Boosting confidence Handling Situations Everyday Interactions Improved Communication Overall Well-being - What are the benefits of PCIT for parents and children? > PCIT equips parents and children with important skills. It incorporates techniques from play therapy to reinforce positive child behavior and provides strategies to manage negative behavior effectively. PCIT comprises two main components: Child-Directed Interaction (CDI), where parents enhance their play skills to strengthen the parent-child bond, and Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI), where parents learn to guide their child's actions with clear instructions and establish consistent consequences for better cooperation. - What are the common causes of school refusal? > School refusal is often not just about a child skipping school for fun. Common causes and possible reasons include: Bullying School Challenges Feeling Nervous: Life Changes Emotional Struggles Physical Complaints - What are the core objectives of these sessions? > The core objectives of our training sessions include nurturing positive friendships, developing self-confidence and self-esteem, and showcasing positive social skills. We ensure an engaging and enjoyable learning experience while imparting essential social skills. - What are the CPT codes used for services? > There are 4 main codes utilized for ABA therapy. All of these codes are billed in 15 minute increments 97151 - assessment code97155 - supervision code97156 - parent training code97153 - 1:1 direct therapy code Tip: MPG encourages all families to double check their reimbursement rates with their insurance companies prior to initiating services. Reimbursable usual and customary rates can vary greatly. - What are the credentials of the tutors with MPG Tutoring? > Tutors with MPG Tutoring are all licensed teachers. - What are the effects of school refusal on a child's life? > School refusal can have significant impacts on various aspects of a child's life. It can lead to academic difficulties, challenges in forming and maintaining friendships, conflicts within the family, and emotional struggles like anxiety and sadness. The longer a child avoids school, the harder it becomes for them to catch up on missed learning and reintegrate into the school routine. Avoiding school has a ripple effect that affects education, relationships, family dynamics, and emotional well-being. - What are the first signs that a child might have APD? > Early signs can include frequent requests for repetition, difficulty following verbal directions, struggling with rhyming or phonemic awareness, or displaying frustration during communication. - What are the four core modules of DBT? > Core Mindfulness: Focused on being fully present and aware in the moment, fostering self-awareness.Interpersonal Effectiveness: Aids with assertive communication and empathetic interaction.Distress Tolerance: Teaches individuals strategies to accept and cope with intense emotions.Emotion Regulation: Aids in recognizing, labeling, and managing emotions effectively. - What are the goals of the Teen Social Anxiety Groups? > The program aims to achieve enhanced self-assurance, increased assertiveness, greater ease in social settings, and improved understanding of social cues. By mastering these skills, adolescents can approach their social interactions with more confidence and success. - What are the key components of PCIT for older children? > PCIT for older children includes two main parts: Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) and Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI). CDI teaches parents to play techniques akin to those used in play therapy, strengthening the parent-child bond and promoting positive behaviors. PDI focuses on guiding a child's actions through clear instructions, setting fair consequences, and improving their listening skills. - What are the main components of PCIT-T? > PCIT-T comprises two primary parts: Child Directed Interaction (CDI-T) and Parent Directed Interaction (PDI-T). During CDI-T, parents acquire positive parenting techniques to improve their child's behavior, language, and emotional development. This includes PRIDE skills (praise, reflect, imitate, describe, enjoy) from traditional PCIT and the CARES model (come in, assist, reassure, emotional validation, soothe) for managing intense emotions. There's also a version of CARES for parents, teaching relaxation and positive self-talk techniques for challenging parenting moments. In PDI-T, parents use an adapted parent-directed interaction approach, teaching children to follow directions using a tell-show-try-again-guide method, with praise for attentive listening. - What are the options for undergoing PCIT – in-person or online? > We offer PCIT services both in-person at our center on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and online through Telehealth. You can choose the option that best suits your needs and preferences. - What are the potential long-term effects of untreated ADHD? > If you do not seek to treat your ADHD it can lead to various challenges. Academic or work difficulties, relationship problems, low self-esteem, and increased risk of other mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. We serve patients from Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY - What are the steps in the process? > 1. The first step in the process is an in-office parent-child intake with our senior clinical director, Ariel Kornblum. This is a 90 min intake, inclusive of record review, parent intake, child intake and formal feedback on schedule. 2. The MPG team will work on scheduling. Once a provider or providers are available they will be linked with the family. The family will also be linked with the provider's clinical supervisor. 3. The MPG team will submit a request for an initial assessment. This assessment is not diagnostic in nature, it is a skills assessment that identifies areas of strengths, deficits and assists in goal setting. The therapist will complete the initial assessment once it is authorized. 4. MPG submits an ongoing authorization for services (this happens every 6 months). This information will be shared with families. 5. The therapist(s) will share the goals and program book with the parent. 6. Therapy begins! - What are the success rates of DBT? > DBT has shown a high success rate in improving emotional regulation, reducing self-harm, and enhancing one's overall life satisfaction. The effectiveness may vary from person to person. However, its known for its positive outcomes. - What are the symptoms of Depression? > Common symptoms of depression include sadness, appetite changes, irritability, loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, social withdrawal, and thoughts of death or suicide. - What are the testing codes for insurance? > We will discuss insurance first and foremost in the initial stages of our Testing consultations. We will provide the appropriate codes based on what test is best suited for the patient to allow parents and individuals to follow-up with their insurance companies. - What are the typical symptoms of OCD, and how do they impact daily life? > OCD symptoms can be intense, disrupting regular life activities such as socializing, attending school, or spending time with family. It's like having an unwelcome guest constantly around. People with OCD engage in repetitive behaviors, even though they recognize its a problem. These actions significantly interfere with daily life and can make it hard to concentrate. - What are your most affordable services? > We are passionate about making sure that mental health care is accessible to everyone. Since we are not in-network with insurance, we provide several services with reduce-fee options, such as groups, individual and testing. We offer several different types of groups that cost significantly less than individual therapy. We also offer individual therapy and testing with trainees under supervision which are much more affordable than working exclusively with a licensed clinician. Please contact us for more information. - What can I expect from the testing process? > First, we will conduct an Intake. generally take one hour, completed virtually with parents (or the individual if they are over 18). The intake helps us gather information related to presenting problems and pertinent developmental, medical, and social history for the patient. Next, we will complete Testing. Depending on testing needs, this will take place over 1-3 in-person sessions in our office location on the Upper West Side. Some testing can be done virtually, please let us know if youd prefer virtual testing. Rating scales will also be sent to parents and school, with a signed release. Finally, we will provide Feedback, which typically takes one hour, completed virtually with parents (or the individual if they are over 18). After the feedback session, we will provide a comprehensive report to parents/individual outlining how the patient completed each aspect of testing, present diagnoses, review recommendations, and answer parent/individual questions. - What can parents do to support a child experiencing school refusal? > Parents can play a significant role in helping children with school refusal by: Establishing a Good Routine: Creating organized mornings and evenings to reduce stress. Encouraging Positive Actions: Praising and rewarding the child for attending school, along with setting consequences for non-attendance. Managing Leisure Activities: Ensuring enjoyable activities like TV and games are saved for after school. Improving Communication: Finding better ways to communicate that reduce conflicts and arguments at home. - What can parents expect in PCIT-T sessions? > PCIT-T sessions consist of teaching and coaching components. In teaching sessions, parents meet individually with their therapist to learn specific parenting techniques. Coaching sessions follow, with the therapist guiding parents through an earpiece from behind a one-way mirror, providing immediate feedback on using parenting skills effectively in real-life situations. - What Causes ADHD? > ADHD, or Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition with multiple contributing factors. While the exact cause is not fully understood, several factors like genetics, environmental factors, fetal exposure/ development, brain development, nutrition, and social environment play a role. - What causes ADHD? > Scientists believe genetics play a significant role in ADHD. Other factors being studied include environment, fetal development, brain maturation, nutrition, and social factors. Brain imaging shows differences in brain growth and function in kids with ADHD, especially in areas linked to attention and planning. - What causes Anxiety Disorders? > The exact causes are not fully known, but a combination of genetics, environment, and brain chemistry plays a role. About 18% of American adults experience anxiety disorders each year. - What causes OCD, and is it genetic? > While the exact cause is not fully understood, genetics play a role in OCD. If a close family member has it, the risk is higher. Other factors like environmental influences and difficult experiences may contribute to OCD, especially if it starts later in life. - What causes Stress? > Stress can stem from various sources such as work, financial issues, health problems, relationships, or personality traits like being overly competitive or rushing constantly. It varies from person to person. - What do I bring to my first appointment? > We send out an email reminder before your first appointment which contains a welcome packet. You'll need to complete these forms electronically before the appointment. Any reports or recent testings that are relevant from school or other providers are also important to bring or share prior to your first appointment. - What do I do if I don’t feel the assigned therapist is a good match? > Thats okay! While we strive to create meaningful connections at the beginning of therapy, sometimes the needs of a particular student do not align with the strengths of a particular therapist. In the event that youve identified that the therapist/student relationship is not ideal, we ask that you reach out to a supervisor or clinical director for support in next steps. - What do I do if I don’t feel the assigned therapist is a good match? > Thats okay! While we strive to create meaningful connections at the beginning of therapy, sometimes the needs of a particular student do not align with the strengths of a particular therapist. In the event that youve identified that the therapist/student relationship is not ideal, we ask that you reach out to a supervisor or clinical director for support in next steps. - What do I have to pay? > For DOE funded services, MPG bills the DOE directly. For private or out of network services, the family is responsible for paying the rate for the service upon service delivery. - What do I have to pay? > For DOE funded services, MPG bills the DOE directly. - What does "rolling admission" mean? > There are no fixed application deadlines. Families can begin the intake process at any time, and each student is evaluated individually. There is no firm start date until student interest is confirmed, so we recommend beginning the process as early as possible. - What does training look like for BCBAs? > MPG BCBAs and LBAs initially go through a 12-training sequence upon their initial 3 month employment. The training involves competency based assessment and frequent feedback. Supervision and clinical support is provided to our entire team in an ongoing capacity, for the duration of their work with MPG. - What does training look like for BCBAs? > MPG BCBAs and LBAs initially go through a 12-training sequence upon their initial 3 month employment. The training involves competency based assessment and frequent feedback. Supervision and clinical support is provided to our entire team in an ongoing capacity, for the duration of their work with MPG. - What happens during CBT sessions? > In CBT sessions, kids and teens engage in learning activities to address their issues. They begin with 'psychoeducation,' where they gain valuable insights into how thoughts function and techniques to manage them, both within and outside of therapy. They become like detectives, learning to understand thought processes and effective coping strategies. - What if I make a late payment, or no payment? > Our office may charge your credit card on file if we do not receive payment within 5 business days. Non-payment may result in legal action and incur additional fees. - What is a Behavioral Sleep Disorder in children and adolescents? > Behavioral Sleep Disorders are sleep problems caused by behavioral or psychological factors rather than physiological issues. These disorders can lead to sleep deprivation and have many effects on mental and physical health, school performance, and overall development in young individuals. - What is ADHD, and who does it affect? > ADHD stands for Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Its a common brain disorder that often starts in childhood and can continue into adolescence and adulthood. ADHD is characterized by two main features: inattention impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects behavior and performance at home and in school. - What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and how does it affect individuals? > Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that varies in severity and impacts social interaction, communication (both verbal and nonverbal), and behavior, including repetitive actions. Signs of ASD typically become noticeable between the ages of 2 and 3. - What is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)? > CBT is an effective therapy for anxiety. It helps individuals understand their anxiety symptoms, beliefs, and thoughts and provides strategies for improvement. Positive changes can happen within a few months. - What is Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) for kids and teens? > Cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) is like a teamwork game designed for kids and teens, typically for those aged 7 or older. It provides a space to discuss emotions like anger, worry, lack of confidence, sadness, or challenges with friendships. - What is Depression in children, and how does it affect them? > Depression is a serious mental health condition that can impact a childs life. The childs mood and thoughts, it can lead to things like missing school, trouble making friends, and sometimes even thinking about suicide. - What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)? > DBT or Dialectical Behavior Therapy, is a proven therapy method that aids individuals find a balance between acceptance and change. It teaches valuable skills in areas like mindfulness, interpersonal communication, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation. - What is Executive Functioning, and why is it important? > Executive functioning is a set of higher-order mental skills that enable us to manage daily tasks effectively. It involves skills like task analysis, planning, organization, setting timelines, adaptability, and timely completion. Its crucial for decision-making and overall life management. - What is Executive Functioning? > Executive functioning refers to a set of important cognitive skills we all use every day. These skills include memory, attention, organization, planning, and impulse control, and they play an important role in academic success and daily life. - What is OCD and who can be affected by it? > OCD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, is a mental health challenge where people get stuck in repetitive thoughts (obsessions)that make them anxious. Both kids and adults can have OCD, and it typically starts around age 10. - What is OCD, and how can it be described? > OCD is like an anxiety alarm in the brain. It occurs when individuals have thoughts, images, or strong urges that make them anxious. To ease their anxiety, they engage in repetitive behaviors, much like trying to turn off the alarm. - What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)? > Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an effective approach designed for children aged 2-7 who are dealing with behavior problems such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder or ADHD. It involves coaching sessions with parents or caregivers to enhance parent-child interactions, leading to improved behavior in children. - What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)? > Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is a method designed to assist children aged 2-7 and their parents or caregivers. It focuses on improving how children interact, enhancing their social skills, strengthening the parent-child connection, boosting parental confidence, and reducing problematic child behaviors like defiance or aggression. - What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Toddlers (PCIT-T)? > Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Toddlers, abbreviated as PCIT-T, is a highly effective program designed for children aged 12-25 months and their caregivers. It focuses on enhancing emotional control and self-esteem in toddlers by teaching parents nurturing and supportive parenting techniques. Parents learn effective ways to comfort their children during moments of strong emotions, such as crying, whining, or frustration, and to reinforce positive behavior with attention. - What is school refusal? > School refusal refers to a situation where children find it challenging to attend school due to emotional reasons. While it's not an official medical term, it's a way to describe this behavior. Children may exhibit school refusal in various ways, such as frequent complaints about going to school, missing school days, or resisting school attendance. - What is Selective Mutism (SM)? > Selective Mutism (SM) is a type of anxiety disorder mostly seen in children. It makes them stay quiet in certain social situations, like school and community gatherings. But they can talk just fine at home with family. - What is Selective Mutism (SM)? > Selective Mutism (SM) is a type of anxiety disorder mostly seen in children. It makes them stay quiet in certain social situations, like school and community gatherings. But they can talk just fine at home with family. - What is Stress? > Stress is the bodys natural reaction to change or challenges. It can be short-term (acute) from sudden events or long-term (chronic) from ongoing issues like financial problems, work stress, or relationship difficulties. - What is the certification/licensure level of the clinicians? > All DOE therapists are Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analysts (LBA) in NYS. These are clinicians with advanced training and supervision in the provision of behavior analytic services. - What is the certification/licensure level of the clinicians? > All private pay therapists are Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analysts (LBA) in NYS. These are clinicians with advanced training and supervision in the provision of behavior analytic services. - What is the group size for Teen Social Anxiety Groups, and how are participants assessed? > Our Teen Social Anxiety Groups maintain a small group size, limited to 6 teenagers. Before starting the group, each participant undergoes individual assessments. These assessments ensure that the experiences within the group are personalized to align with the goals and challenges of each teen. Sessions are conducted in person, providing a supportive environment for personal growth. - What is the schedule for the Teen Social Anxiety Groups? > The Mini-Series Group meets on Tuesdays at 6 pm, with one-hour sessions held weekly, starting in October. The schedule includes sessions on Anxiety Psychoeducation, Anxiety Exposures, and group discussions. The group leader is Caroline Harvey, PsyD. - What makes Anxiety Disorders different from normal stress? > Anxiety disorders are more intense and long-lasting than everyday stress. They can significantly disrupt your daily life and require professional attention. - What might cause Selective Mutism? > We don't know the exact cause, but it could be linked to things like general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, tough family situations, trauma, self-esteem issues, difficulty with sounds, or speech problems like stuttering. - What might cause Selective Mutism? > We don't know the exact cause, but it could be linked to things like general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, tough family situations, trauma, self-esteem issues, difficulty with sounds, or speech problems like stuttering. - What role do educators play in supporting children with APD in a classroom environment? > Educators can implement strategies such as preferential seating, use of visual aids, providing clear and concise instructions, and allowing additional processing time, all of which can assist children with APD in a classroom setting. - When is payment due? > Payment is due at the time of your session. When services occur at school or when the patient is not present, you will receive an email description of your charges within a week. We ask for payment shortly after we send out this email. - When will I get my receipt? > We email receipts at the beginning of each month for all sessions paid for in the previous month (for example a receipt for any sessions in April will go out the first week in May). The receipt for the month is issued when all sessions from that month have been paid. - Where are services provided? Is there a clinic? Are services in school? > ABA services may be provided in the home, school, and community. MPG staffs BCBAs and LBAs across the 5 boroughs and Yonkers/Jersey who work with families to meet their scheduling and location availability. For home services, the BCBA will meet with the client at the familys home and provide the recommended ABA services. For school settings, the BCBA will meet the student at school and act as a 1:1 practitioner to support the student through their school day. For services in the community, the BCBA (with an adult family member present) will take the student into local community events/activities and work on ABA programming in these settings. - Where are services provided? Is there a clinic? Are services in school? > ABA services may be provided in the home, school, and community. MPG staffs BCBAs and LBAs across the 5 boroughs and Yonkers/Jersey who work with families to meet their scheduling and location availability. For home services, the BCBA will meet with the client at the familys home and provide the recommended ABA services. For school settings, the BCBA will meet the student at school and act as a 1:1 practitioner to support the student through their school day. For services in the community, the BCBA (with an adult family member present) will take the student into local community events/activities and work on ABA programming in these settings. - Where can I access PCIT therapy, and is it available online? > We are among the few official PCIT centers located in Manhattan. Our team comprises seven trained PCIT clinicians, including three within agency PCIT Trainers. We offer PCIT services both in person at our center on the Upper West Side and remotely through Telehealth. - Where can I access PCIT-T therapy, and what are the payment options? > We are unique as the only Manhattan center with one of the few clinicians nationally formally trained in PCIT-T. We are committed to excellence, offering three specialized PCIT rooms with one-way mirrors. You can find our PCIT-T services at our West Side office, located at 107 West 82nd St, LL Suite 101. We also provide home-based services for caregivers who prefer learning in their environment. It's important to note that PCIT-T payment is out-of-network.We serve patients from Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY - Where can I mail my payment? > Please mail payment to: Manhattan Psychology Group, PC 107 West 82nd St, Lower Level Suite 101, New York, NY 10024. - Where does tutoring take place? > Typically, tutoring occurs either in the home of the student or remotely via zoom by our team of experienced telehealth providers. If there is a special circumstance where an alternative location needs to be identified, please do not hesitate to reach out to address potential options. - Where is the program located? > MPG's 1:1 ABA Educational Day Program is located at: 15 West 86th StreetNew York, NY 10024646-389-4112 View on Location page - Who benefits from PCIT-T? > PCIT-T is beneficial for toddlers facing a range of challenges, including tantrums, aggressive behavior (such as hitting, biting, or pinching), fussiness (including screaming, whining, or crying), feelings of anger or frustration, head-banging, attachment issues (such as rejecting parents or difficulty feeling comforted), separation anxiety or withdrawal from parents, developmental concerns (e.g., autistic behaviors or language difficulties), and a history of child abuse and neglect. Additionally, it supports parents experiencing parental stress, including anxiety, dissatisfaction, coping difficulties, and a lack of confidence. - Who can benefit from 1:1 Social Skills Training sessions? > Our 1:1 Social Skills Training sessions are designed for children and teenagers aged 4-13. We also offer valuable support to individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, learning disabilities, and high-functioning autism spectrum disorders. These sessions aim to nurture positive friendships and self-assurance, essential for effective peer interactions. - Who can benefit from CBT for kids and teens? > CBT is beneficial for children and teenagers who experience a range of emotional challenges, including anxiety, depression, anger issues, low self-esteem, and difficulties with school or peer relationships. Its suitable for kids aged 7 and older who want to address these issues constructively. - Who can benefit from Teen Social Anxiety Groups? > Teen Social Anxiety Groups are tailored for adolescents aged 12-17 who experience discomfort or fear in various social situations, worry about embarrassing themselves in front of others, avoid social interactions with peers, strangers, or individuals, and find it challenging to understand and respond to social cues. - Who do I make my check out to? > Please make all checks payable to 'Manhattan Psychology Group, PC'. - Who is Dr. Caroline Harvey, and what is her role in PCIT? > Dr. Caroline Harvey, PsyD, is a Child, Adolescent Adult Psychologist, PCIT Therapist, Within Agency Trainer, and PCIT-SM Therapist. She is also a co-author of the research development manual for PCIT Adapted for Older Children, a family intervention designed for children aged 7-10 with disruptive and oppositional behaviors. - Who might get Selective Mutism? > SM often starts in children aged 2 to 4, but we notice it more when they start school. Children with a family history of anxiety or who've had tough times might be more likely to have it. - Who might get Selective Mutism? > SM often starts in children aged 2 to 4, but we notice it more when they start school. Children with a family history of anxiety or who've had tough times might be more likely to have it. - Why are social skills important? > Social skills are essential because they help us connect with others and positively impact our world. These skills allow us to communicate effectively and understand others better, building strong bonds and contributing positively to our surroundings. - Why do some kids refuse to go to school? > There can be various reasons why children refuse to go to school. Some common signs of school refusal include: Feeling Sick a Lot Complaining About School Being Late or Missing School Missing Important Times Wanting to Go Home Excessive Worry Crying Because They Want to Leave. Difficulty with Transitions Morning Problems - Why is early intervention important for social skills development? > Recognizing social skills deficits in your child early on is crucial. Early intervention services for infants and toddlers can help children develop and improve their social skills before these issues become more challenging to manage. - Why is seeking treatment important? > Untreated depression can lead to worsened symptoms and even thoughts of suicide. Proper treatment can significantly improve one's overall quality of life. Moreover, managing bipolar disorder is a lifelong commitment. We serve patients from Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY - Will I be charged if I miss an appointment? > You will be charged the full session fee if you do not notify us via email or phone 48 hours before your scheduled appointment. Should a last minute emergency or sickness arise, your session fee can be waived on a case-by-case basis. --- ## Workshops & Events * [MPG360: Designing Care Around the Client: A Lifecycle Approach to Multidisciplinary Treatment](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/mpg360-designing-care-around-the-client-a-lifecycle-approach-to-multidisciplinary-treatment/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Evidence-based Feedback and Performance Management: Critical Tools for Effective Supervision](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/evidence-based-feedback-and-performance-management-critical-tools-for-effective-supervision/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Helping Students Improve Attention and Executive Functioning](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/helping-students-improve-attention-and-executive-functioning/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Evidence-Based Toilet Training in ABA: Selecting, Individualizing, and Adapting Interventions](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/evidence-based-toilet-training-in-aba-selecting-individualizing-and-adapting-interventions/) > **Workshop Description:** * [The Overlap Between Restorative Justice and Applied Behavior Analysis](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/the-overlap-between-restorative-justice-and-applied-behavior-analysis/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Teaching Social Thinking Skills with ABA: Flexible Approaches](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/teaching-social-thinking-skills-with-aba-flexible-approaches/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Optimizing ABA Treatment Plans for Funding Approval](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/optimizing-aba-treatment-plans-for-funding-approval/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Organize the Chaos: Executive Functioning 101](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/organize-the-chaos-executive-functioning-101/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Reclaiming Focus: Evidence-Based Strategies for Kids in a Screen-Filled World](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/reclaiming-focus-evidence-based-strategies-for-kids-in-a-screen-filled-world/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Incorporating the Degrees of Freedom in the Preparation for the Big Exam by Using Behavior Analytic Procedures to Study Behavior Analysis](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/incorporating-the-degrees-of-freedom-in-the-preparation-for-the-big-exam-by-using-behavior-analytic-procedures-to-study-behavior-analysis/) > **Workshop Description:** * [Bidirectional Naming and Relational Frame Theory: Recent Research and Conceptual Advances](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/bidirectional-naming-and-relational-frame-theory-recent-research-and-conceptual-advances/) > **Workshop Description:** * [The Missing Connection in Collaboration](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/events/the-missing-connection-in-collaboration/) > **Workshop Description:** --- ## Our Medical Team * [Jill Mishoe](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/jill-mishoe/) - HR Generalist> **Bio:** ... * [Angelina Mertsalova](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/angelina-mertsalova/) - Billing & Payroll Specialist; ABA Services> **Bio:** ... * [Angelina Romero](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/angelina-romero-ba/) - Billing Coordinator> **Bio:** ... * [Madeline Finlay](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/madeline-thiel-ma-bcba-lba/) - MPG Clinical Supervisor of ABA; Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Sandy Wong](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/sandy-wong-msed/) - Pre-doctoral Intern> **Bio:** ... * [Bradley Hercman](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/bradley-hercman/) - Testing Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Bradley Hercman specializes in psychoeducational evaluations and consultation, with a focus on assessment, intervention planning, and special education advocacy. Originally from Great Neck, NY, he earned his B.A. in Psychology from New York University, with a minor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies. He went on to earn his M.S. in School Psychology and Psy.D. in Combined School-Clinical Child Psychology from the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology at Yeshiva University. Dr. Brad brings more than 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and school communities. His expertise includes developing individualized, strengths-based assessment plans and evidence-based recommendations designed to support academic, behavioral, and social-emotional functioning. He collaborates closely with students, families, schools, and multidisciplinary teams to translate evaluation findings into practical interventions and educational supports. Dr. Brad also has extensive experience supporting families through the special education process, including the development of individualized education programs (IEPs), Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings, and Section 504 planning. His work emphasizes helping students access appropriate supports while building the skills needed for continued academic success and transitions to higher levels of education, including college. Dr. Brad resides in Teaneck, NJ, with his wife and four children, who range from ... * [Lanae Coleman](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/lanae-coleman-phd/) - Clinical Psychology Postdoctoral Fellow> **Bio:** ... * [Hamza Chauhdry](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/hamza-chauhdry/) - Administrative Assistant> **Bio:** ... * [Caroline Burke](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/caroline-burke/) > **Bio:** ... * [Sean Changlai](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/sean-changlai-lmsw/) - Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Family Psychotherapist> **Bio:** ... * [Francyne Zeltser](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/francyne-zeltser-psyd/) - Senior Director of Mental Health & Testing Services; Neuropsychologist; Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist; Certified School Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Francyne Zeltser is a New York State Licensed Psychologist (#020690), neuropsychologist, and experienced clinician specializing in psychological and neuropsychological assessment and mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults. As the Senior Director of Mental Health and Testing Services, she leads a multidisciplinary team of licensed psychologists, neuropsychologists, and psychotherapists providing comprehensive assessment and treatment services. She also oversees psychology externship, internship, and postdoctoral fellowship training programs, with an emphasis on clinical training, professional development, and supervision. Dr. Zeltser earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Binghamton University and completed her graduate training at St. Johns University. She has also completed CPD-accredited professional training in supporting PDA children through PDA North America. Dr. Zeltser provides psychotherapy and comprehensive neuropsychological, psychological, psychoeducational, autism, developmental, and guardianship evaluations. Her areas of expertise include child and adolescent development, autism and developmental disabilities, ADHD and executive functioning, anxiety and mood disorders, behavior management, parenting, and school-related concerns. Her assessment work focuses on understanding each individuals cognitive, academic, attentional, executive functioning, social-emotional, and behavioral profile to support diagnostic clarification and ... * [Joshua Rosenthal](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/joshua-rosenthal-psyd/) - Founder & CEO; Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychologist; PCIT Therapist;
Founder of Big Apple Day Program and Electronic Daily Report Card
> **Bio:** Dr. Joshua Rosenthal is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in New York (#017930), New Jersey (#4723) and Florida (#TPPY527), specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, young adults, parents and families with ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, disruptive behavior disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, phobias, social skills problems, school issues and relationship difficulties. Dr. Rosenthal worked and trained at several prominent hospitals, including Yale New Haven Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center. He is the former Outreach Coordinator and Peer Counseling Program Coordinator for The City College of New York where he trained faculty, staff, and students in stress reduction, anger management, time management, test anxiety, insomnia, and depression/suicide awareness. Dr. Rosenthal received his BA in Psychology from University of Delaware and his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University CW Post campus. He is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the New Jersey Psychological Association, New York State Psychological Association and Society of Clinical Child Adolescent Psychology. Dr. Rosenthal is the founder of Big Apple Day Program, a social skills summer treatment camp in Manhattan that helped over 400 children with social and emotional difficulties from 2011-2019 have a fun and therapeutic summer experience. He is also the founder of the Electronic Daily Report Card (eDRC), a online behavioral progress monitoring t... * [Ariel Kornblum](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/ariel-kornblum/) - Senior Director of Clinical Operations; Behavioral & Educational Services;
Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychologist; Board Certified Behavior Analyst
> **Bio:** Dr. Ariel Kornblum is a licensed psychologist in New York State (#021301), a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA, #1-16-23753), and a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (#001532). She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from The George Washington University and completed her graduate studies at St. John's University. Dr. Kornblum also completed the CPD Accredited Training for professionals for supporting PDA children through the UK PDA society, as well as the level 1 and 2 trainings through PDANA. In her current role as Senior Director of Clinical Operations, Behavioral Educational Services, Dr. Kornblum leads a multidisciplinary team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), Licensed Behavior Analysts (LBA), behavior therapists, and certified special educators. This team provides comprehensive academic and therapeutic support to learners ages 2 to 21+ across schools, homes, and communities throughout the New York City metropolitan area. Dr. Kornblum also collaborates with special education attorneys, families, and school staff to provide expert testimony, enhance treatment integrity, and optimize clinical outcomes. Additionally, Dr. Kornblum is licensed to offer telehealth services in Florida, New Jersey, and Michigan. She specializes in a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), behavioral parent management training (PMT), Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions... * [Niloo Dardashti](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/niloo-dardashti-psyd-hhp/) - Co-Founder, Consulting Psychologist, Documentary Producer & Author> **Bio:** Dr. Niloo Dardashti is a Licensed Psychologist, Workplace Media Consultant, Author, and Documentary Producer. Trained in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), Mindfulness, and Short Term Psychodynamic treatments, Dr. Dardashti applies her broad range of therapeutic interventions in her work with adults, couples, and other dyads (such as mothers and daughters or mothers and sons), often resulting in short term powerful changes. She is often sought out when other therapies have not succeeded in attaining goals and is frequently interviewed by the media on relationship and workplace dynamics, pop-culture issues, stress management, and the ever increasing challenge of maintaining balance in a high-tech high-stimuli high-expectation world. Using these same skills, Dr. D also helps companies and organizations to flourish in the face of workplace obstacles. Conflict resolution, anger management, and stress management are some of the main challenges she addresses in the workplace. Overcoming these challenges typically lead to increases in productivity, efficiency and overall job satisfaction. You may want to experience more motivation, better relationships, or understand and eliminate barriers that get in the way of your goals for a better quality of life. Whatever your goals, Dr. Dardashti will help you identify destructive thoughts, beliefs, and emotions, and learn how to address the chronic patterns that cause suffering. Dr. D has coached hundred... * [Hadana Haile](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/hadana-haile-bs/) - Office Assistant> **Bio:** ... * [Sylvie Fitzgerald](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/sylvie-fitzgerald-ba/) - Office Assistant> **Bio:** ... * [Fatima Aiman](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/fatima-aiman-bs/) - Insurance Administrative Assistant> **Bio:** ... * [Charlene Fauntroy](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/charlene-fauntroy-mba/) - Billing & Payroll Specialist; ABA Services> **Bio:** ... * [Vaniya Malik](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/vaniya-malik-bs/) - Intake Coordinator> **Bio:** ... * [Fatima Ahmed](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/fatima-ahmed-ma/) - Intake Coordinator> **Bio:** ... * [Madison Burnett](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/madison-burnett-ma-eds-bcba-lba/) - Recruitment & Engagement Specialist> **Bio:** ... * [Claire Ellis](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/claire-ellis-bs/) - HR Generalist> **Bio:** ... * [Carly Klayman](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/carly-klayman-lmsw/) - Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychotherapist> **Bio:** Carly Klayman is a New York (#084711) licensed social worker and behavioral therapist. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Carly received her Master of Social Work at Hunter College. In addition, she earned an Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis at Hunter College School of Education. Carly is also formally trained in Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). Carly has extensive experience providing behaviorally oriented treatment to children in their homes, schools, and in social skills groups. Her background in child development, family systems, and evidence-based interventions allows her to bring a thoughtful and individualized approach to her work with both children and their families. Carly is a dedicated social worker with a strong passion for helping children build confidence, strengthen relationships, and improve self-esteem. She leads social skills groups that provide children with a structured and supportive environment to practice real-time peer interactions, develop emotional awareness, and build meaningful connections. Through this work, Carly has helped many children gain confidence in social settings and carry these skills into their everyday lives. With a specialized focus on social skills development, Carly works both individually and in group settings to support children in building essential interpersonal skills. Her warm, engaging style creates a safe and encouraging sp... * [Lindsey Zenk](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/lindsey-zenk-ms-bcba-lba/) - Child and Adolescent Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Lindsey Zenk is a New York State Licensed and Board Certified Behavior Analyst(#1346840592) living and working in New York City. She obtained a dual Bachelor of Science in Public Health Sciences and Economics from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in 2016 and later went on to receive her masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies from The Sage Colleges in 2019. Lindsey gained her clinical experience beginning in 2017 at The ELIJA School, a highly intensive one-to-one ABA program serving individuals with autism based in Levittown, NY. At ELIJA, she began as an ABA instructor providing services in both the classroom and home setting and fell in love with the field. She decided to pursue her masters and BCBA credential and worked her way up to a role as Clinical Supervisor where she provided ongoing assessment, treatment, supervision, and parent training until 2021. Lindsey is skilled in Functional Behavior Assessments and skill assessments such as ABLLS-R and VB-MAPP. She has a strong background in the creation and implementation of behavior intervention plans and individualized skill programming to address areas of need. She focuses on utilizing evidence-based interventions designed to decrease challenging behavior and increase functionally equivalent replacement behaviors. Her use of data collection and monitoring has been pivotal for guiding her clinical decisions and assessing progress of her clients, as well as ensuring that she carries out ABA ... * [Clare Romero](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/clare-ferramosca-msed-bcba-lba/) - Child and Adolescent Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Clare Romero is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Licensed Behavior Analyst, and certified Special Education Teacher in New York State.(#000471-1) She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Psychology of the Exceptional Child from SUNY Cortland as well as a Master of Science in Early Childhood Special Education from Hunter College Before joining MPG, Clare began her career over 20 years ago as a home programmer and instructor providing ABA and educational therapy, as a SEIT (Special Education Itinerant Teacher) for preschool children, and has also earned the title of Assistant Director of Educational ABA Services. She has been an adjunct lecturer for several years, teaching a course to paraprofessionals about autism spectrum disorders in young children. Beginning in 2004, she was the lead behavior consultant for a special needs activity center, overseeing the development and implementation of behavioral goals for participants with various disabilities aged 2-21 and providing staff supervision and training regarding behavior intervention. Clare most currently provides home-based ABA and educational therapy for children on the autism spectrum, both as a program coordinator/supervisor and as a direct service provider throughout New York City and Bergen County, New Jersey. Additionally, she is providing therapeutic services utilizing her behavior background for individuals with Selective Mutism. Throughout her career, Clare has worked diligently to ensure tha... * [Jordan Sax](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/jordan-sax-ba/) - Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Couples Psychotherapist | Clinical Coordinator for Mental Health Services> **Bio:** Jordan Sax is a Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Couples Psychotherapist (#P134928)at Manhattan Psychology Group. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Northern Colorado and her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy, with a specialization in Child and Adolescent Therapy, from National University. Jordan works with children, teens, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational challenges. Her approach is collaborative and structured, helping clients build insight, develop practical skills, and create meaningful, lasting change. Drawing from evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and DBT-informed skills, Jordan integrates a systems-oriented lens to help clients understand patterns within themselves and their relationships. She supports clients in strengthening emotional regulation, improving communication, and building tools that translate into real-life progress across environments. With a background in both clinical work and education, Jordan is particularly attuned to family dynamics and works closely with parents and caregivers to support growth beyond the therapy room. In addition to her clinical work, Jordan serves as a Clinical Coordinator at MPG, where she oversees the intake process and collaborates closely with clinicians to ensure a thoughtful and seamless client experience. Passionate about the arts, movies, and theatre, Jordan... * [Azahm Khan](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/azahm-khan-lmsw/) - Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychotherapist> **Bio:** ... * [Stefani Licitra](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/stefani-licitra-lmsw/) - Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychotherapist> **Bio:** Stefani Licitra is a New York State Licensed Social Worker (#106507) who received her undergraduate degree from Binghamton University. She went on to earn her Masters from the College of Staten Island, where she received her Social Work degree, focused on clinical practice as well as disabilities studies. Stefani specializes in working with individuals with special needs and their families. She has spent years working with people with dual diagnoses; providing direct care, developing behavior plans, and implementing training to parents and clinicians. Stefanis many years of managing a residential facility gives her the unique perspective of understanding the numerous aspects and challenges that this population faces on a daily basis. Stefani believes in working closely with all members of the multidisciplinary team to achieve the best outcome for her clients. Stefani uses a client centered approach when providing therapy to ensure that all treatment is individualized to each clients unique strengths and dynamic personality. Stefani is well versed and experienced in working with parents and families; she enjoys helping them feel confident and supported when interacting with and supporting their children. Her compassion, dedication, experience, and patience allows her to successfully treat and understand each client. Stefani provides individual, family and group therapy, treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ASD, and dual diagnoses. Outside of work, Stefani enjoys spending time wi... * [Conner McKinzie](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/conner-mckinzie-bth/) - Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychotherapist> **Bio:** ... * [Denise Martinez](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/denise-rutherford-lcsw/) - Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychotherapist> **Bio:** ... * [Emily Fried](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/emily-fried-lcsw/) - Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychotherapist> **Bio:** ... * [Matthew Diamond](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/matthew-diamond-lcsw/) - Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychotherapist> **Bio:** Matthew Diamond, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker in New York and Connecticut. He earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology and Sociology from Clark University and his Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University. He completed postgraduate clinical training at NewYork-Presbyterian, Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute. Matthew works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families presenting with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship difficulties, academic and career stress, trauma related symptoms, self harm, anger management, and social challenges. He provides both short term, solution focused treatment and longer term therapy, depending on each clients needs and goals. His treatment approach integrates evidence based and insight oriented modalities. Matthew utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop practical, sustainable coping strategies in areas such as emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. He also incorporates insight oriented therapy to support deeper understanding and lasting change. In addition to therapy, Matthew conducts assessments and develops individualized treatment plans tailored to each client. Matthew aims to create a collaborative, compassionate, and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their expe... * [Maura Francis](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/maura-francis-phd/) - Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Maura Francis is a licensed Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist who serves as a PCIT Therapist, and Neuropsychology Fellow. She specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and their families. Dr. Francis earned her bachelors degree in Psychology from Penn State University and holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from St. Johns University, where she received formal training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In addition to her clinical role, Dr. Francis is a Clinical Advisor and Mental Health Coach for To Be Honest (tbh), a California-based organization that provides mental health services and resources to students from historically marginalized and underrepresented communities across the country. Dr. Francis is a client-centered clinician who tailors treatment to meet clients where they are, helping them build self-efficacy over time using a variety of evidence-based methods. She has extensive experience conducting developmental, psychoeducational, and neuropsychological assessments in diverse settings. Dr. Francis is particularly passionate about working with individuals and families from a wide range of backgrounds, applying multi-systems approaches that emphasize both advocacy and therapeutic support. Her research interests focus on the impact of racial discrimination on mental health outcomes and the role of implicit bias in diagnostic decision-making for children and adolescents. Dr. Francis is also a strong advocate for prevention in... * [Jennifer Shindman](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/jennifer-shindman-psyd/) - Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Jennifer Shindman is a New York State licensed psychologist (#024623). She received her B.A. in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and went on to earn her masters and doctoral degrees in school psychology from St. Johns University. She is also a New York State certified school psychologist. Dr. Shindman works with children, adolescents, and adults across a range of emotional and behavioral concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, perfectionism, and challenges related to self-esteem and emotional regulation. She provides individual, group, and family therapy across clinical and school-based settings. She is formally trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills, and mindfulness-based approaches, and is an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute, specializing in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Her approach is active, direct, and goal-oriented, helping clients better understand their patterns and develop practical strategies for meaningful change. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Shindman has provided workshops and lectures for teachers, school administrators, and families on topics including adolescent development, coping skills, and the use of mindfulness in the classroom. She has also worked as a professor at both Queens College and St. Johns University, where she taught cognitive assessment and supervised doctoral students in evidence-based clinical interventions. Sh... * [Rebecca Neuhaus](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/rebecca-neuhaus-psyd/) - Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychologist> **Bio:** ... * [Jennifer Arroyo](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/jennifer-arroyo-msed/) - Bilingual School Psychologist> **Bio:** ... * [Jessica Randel Janicola](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/jessica-randel-psyd/) - Supervising Neuropsychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Randel is a licensed psychologist in the states of New York (#024698), Connecticut (#4559), and Interjurisdictional Telepsychology through PSYPACT (APIT #19832), who received her doctorate in School Psychology at St. Johns University. Dr. Randel completed her postdoctoral training in pediatric neuropsychology at Brooklyn Learning Center(BLC) and BLC Psychology Tribeca. Dr. Randel is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and is certified in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). She has extensively studied and implemented evidence-based practices to conduct psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments as well as to provide psychotherapy to children and adults with a range of learning, attentional, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. Her work includes specialized evaluations for special education and services through the Office for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), helping individuals and families access the support they need. Through her work at Bellevue Hospital, within clinics, and at multiple schools has led to her growing competency in the diagnosis and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorders, mood disorders, executive functioning disorders, personality disorders, and other emotional and behavioral disorders. Dr. Randel has also developed expertise in the supervision and completion of comprehensive assessment of cognitive abilities, social functioning, and executive skills. Dr. Randel is pas... * [Merav Hasler](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/merav-hasler-psyd/) - Testing Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Merav Hasler is a licensed psychologist specializing in school and child clinical psychology, with over a decade of experience serving children, adolescents, and families across the New York Tri-state area. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of WisconsinMadison and completed both her masters and doctoral training at St. Johns University in Queens, NY. Dr. Hasler has received extensive training in evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT), and Parent Management Training (PMT). She has worked in a range of clinical settings, including schools, community mental health centers, private practices, and academic institutions, allowing her to bring a flexible, client-centered approach to care. In addition to providing therapy, Dr. Hasler offers comprehensive psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations. Her assessments help identify the root causes of learning, emotional, or behavioral challenges and guide individualized recommendations for academic and developmental support. Drawing on her experience as a former school psychologist at Scarsdale Middle School, Dr. Hasler brings valuable insight into the educational system and collaborates closely with families to navigate school-based services and interventions. She is fluent in Hebrew and is able to provide bilingual services... * [Steph Gutkin](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/steph-gutkin-phd/) - Neuropsychologist | Child and Adolescent Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Steph Gutkin is a child, adolescent, and adult psychologist (#02806) who works with individuals and families navigating a wide range of emotional, developmental, and behavioral challenges. She earned her Ph.D. in School Psychology from Fordham Universitys NASP- and APA-accredited program, a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Preschool Psychology from Fordham University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Fairfield University. Dr. Gutkin has over a decade of experience supporting children, teens, adults, and parents across home, school, and clinical settings. Her work includes both therapeutic and assessment-based services, including comprehensive psychological, educational, and neuropsychological evaluations, as well as social skills groups and school-based interventions. She works with clients presenting with developmental disabilities, learning differences, trauma, anxiety, and emotional regulation challenges, and partners closely with caregivers to help them better understand and support their childrens needs. Known for her warm, collaborative style, Dr. Gutkin creates a supportive and engaging environment tailored to each clients strengths and goals. She integrates evidence-based approaches, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Parent Management Training (PMT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), while maintaining a strong focus on real-world application across settings.... * [Marcel Trujillo](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/marcel-trujillo-psyd/) - Neuropsychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Marcel Trujillo completed a PsyD degree in the Combined School-Clinical Child Psychology program at Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology at Yeshiva University, where he also received an MS degree in School Psychology en route. His doctoral research project examined the efficacy of organizational skills training in children of parents diagnosed with ADHD. Before pursuing his doctoral degree, he earned MA degrees in Forensic Psychology and Forensic Mental Health Counseling from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a BA degree in Psychology from New York University. Dr. Trujillo completed a two-year, post-doctoral fellowship in pediatric neuropsychology with the Division of ADHD, Learning Disorders, and Other Related Disorders at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. During his training, he conducted neuropsychological evaluations with children, adolescents and adults, provided cognitive-behavioral therapy for mood and anxiety disorders, and engaged in cognitive assessment with participants of clinical research trials. He also has experience to provide specialized evaluations for special education. Prior to this, Dr. Trujillo completed a pre-doctoral internship with the Santa Barbara Psychology Internship Consortium in California. Specifically, he was placed in the Santa Maria-Bonita School District where he had the unique opportunity to learn how to practice as a school psychologist in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. His clinical externships at... * [Lauren Dwyer](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/lauren-dwyer-psyd-ncsp/) - Neuropsychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Dwyer has worked with children and their families for over 25 years in various settings. A graduate of Manhattan College, she began her career as a home-based ABA therapist, providing contracted services to children and adolescents. Her interest and experience in behavior intervention led her to intern at WJCS-KICS, a school based community mental health clinic, where she provided therapeutic support, crisis intervention, individual and group counseling to at-risk youth and their families. Dr. Dwyer extended this experience in her role as a therapeutic counselor for the WJCS-CLUSTER summer program. She also spent many years volunteering as a counselor at Camp Viva, a retreat experience for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS. Upon receiving a degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College, Dr. Dwyer worked as a self-contained special education teacher for the NYC Public Schools District 75 program, where she instructed middle school children with emotional and behavioral challenges. She continued in this role while pursuing her doctoral training at Hofstra University, eventually leaving the teaching profession to complete a school based internship in the Yonkers Public Schools. During her school placement, Dr. Dwyer received additional crisis management training for first responders, co-wrote and published an article on peer support in law enforcement and completed her dissertation on Secondary Traumatic Stress Disorder in Police Wives. She completed a clin... * [Chelsey Rosen](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/chelsey-rosen-psyd/) - Senior Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist, Lead Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Chelsey Rosen is a New York State licensed psychologist (#022640) and certified NY State School Psychologist. She earned her B.S. in Psychology from the University of MarylandCollege Park and her Masters and Doctoral degrees in School Psychology from St. Johns University. She works with children, adolescents, adults, and families, with a strong focus on supporting children and parents navigating anxiety, behavioral challenges, and emotional regulation. She specializes in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and selective mutism, helping families build practical, effective strategies to improve communication, behavior, and confidence. Dr. Rosen has extensive experience working with children and families across both clinical and school settings. She supports clients in addressing anxiety, school refusal, ADHD, OCD, and behavioral challenges, while helping children and parents develop stronger emotional and social skills.Her approach integrates evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), Parent Management Training (PMT), and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE). She also provides teacher-child interaction training (TCIT), school consultations, and in-vivo coaching for educators. Dr. Rosen completed her clinical internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Kurtz Psychology Consulting. In addition to her clinical work, she serves as a Lead Psychologist at MPG, where she supervises clinic... * [Erika Stapert](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/erika-stapert-psyd/) - Senior Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist, Clinical Director of Training and Professional Development> **Bio:** ... * [Karen Surowiec](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/karen-surowiec-psyd/) - Neuropsychologist, Senior Testing Psychologist, Certified School Psychologist | Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Karen Surowiec is a New York (#022086) and New Jersey (#5822) State Licensed psychologist who earned her doctorate from the APA accredited Nathan Weiss Graduate College in NJ. She also earned a Masters in School Psychology at Nathan Weiss, and a Masters in Communication and Bachelors in Fine Art from Rutgers University. Dr. Surowiec joined MPG in 2021, and created and helped develop the testing department that has now grown into a multifaceted team of neuropsychologists, trainees, and support staff. Previous to MPG, Dr. Surowiec was the supervisor of the psychology department in multiple NJ locations of the Children Specialized Hospital. There, she managed interdisciplinary testing teams to evaluate children with complex medical and developmental disabilities including cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, autism, ADHD, learning disorder, intellectual disability, and a variety of genetic disorders including fragile X syndrome, spina bifida, and down syndrome. Concurrently, Dr. Surowiec is a staff neuropsychologist at the University Hospital in the Pediatric Infectious Disease Department at Rutgers NJ Medical School. Dr. Surowiec provides grant funded developmental evaluations for underserved children and families with HIV complications. She has authored multipleand supported hundreds ofpeer-reviewed research articles exploring the effects of antiretroviral drugs and HIV on pregnant women, infants, and children. Dr. Surowiec offers compassionate and nurturing support for... * [Jacqueline Hwang](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/jacqueline-hwang-phd/) - Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Jacqueline Hwang is a licensed psychologist in New York (#026586), Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA, #1-26-90356) and New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA, #005099). She earned her B.S. in Applied Psychology from New York University and her Ph.D. in School Psychology from Fordham University, where she also completed her M.S.E. and Advanced Certificate. She holds a graduate certificate in behavior analysis from the Florida Institute of Technology. Dr. Hwang received extensive pre-doctoral training in both academic and clinical settings, including an APA-accredited internship at the Kennedy Krieger Institute/Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where she focused on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) within pediatric developmental disabilities and neurobehavioral outpatient clinics. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the Child Mind Institute in the ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center. Dr. Hwang specializes in working with toddlers, children, and adolescents with developmental and behavioral challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. She also works with families navigating difficulties related to communication, social functioning, self-care, and academic performance. Her work is grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and other evidence-based approaches, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), behavioral parent training (PMT), Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), and Cogniti... * [Caroline Harvey](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/caroline-harvey-psyd/) - Child and Adolescent Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Caroline Harvey is a clinical psychologist licensed in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Florida. She obtained her B.A. in Psychology from the State University of New York at Geneseo and her PsyD in Clinical-School Psychology from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology of Yeshiva University. Dr. Harvey has a passion for empowering parents to effectively manage their childrens challenging behavior while also improving the parent-child relationship and building distress tolerance across all family members. To this end, she provides individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and parents utilizing evidence-based approaches. She specializes in treating youth who suffer from Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Selective Mutism (SM), and other childhood anxiety disorders. Dr. Harvey is a certified therapist in Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and PCIT for Selective Mutism. She is a co-author on the research development manual for PCIT Adapted for Older Children, a family intervention for children 7-10 years of age with disruptive and oppositional behaviors. She additionally provides Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Kazdins Parent Management Training (PMT). Dr. Harvey is committed to collaborating with schools, psychiatrists, and other service providers to best support children across all settings. She specifically enjoys training, consultin... * [Alisa Trugerman](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/alisa-trugerman-phd/) - Senior Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Couples Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Alisa Trugerman is a New York State licensed psychologist (#009615) with over two decades of clinical experience. She earned her B.A. in Biology and Psychology from the University of Rochester and her M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Hofstra University. She is also a certified school psychologist and has provided specialized psychological services in public school settings. Dr. Trugerman works with older children, adolescents, young adults, and couples, with a focus on learning, developmental, and motivational challenges, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and family or relationship concerns. Her approach is holistic and collaborative, and she works closely with families, educators, healthcare providers, and other support systems to build sustainable, real-world solutions. She is formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychodynamic Therapy, Family Systems, and Parent Management Training (PMT), and integrates these approaches to tailor treatment to each clients needs, goals, and context. Dr. Trugerman has extensive experience across clinical, school, and community-based settings, and has served as a subject matter expert in evaluating employer-based mental health programs, conducting quality assurance for treatment services, and assessing emerging technologies in mental health care. She has provided training for global organizations and frequently presents at professional conferences. Her academic work includes a recent publicati... * [Mohini Bhargava](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/mohini-bhargava/) - Senior Psychotherapist for Children, Adolescents, and Adults> **Bio:** ... * [Lauren Feiden](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/laurenfeidenpsyd/) - Senior Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Lauren Feiden is a New York State licensed psychologist (#020219). She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from McGill University and her graduate degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where she specialized in child and adolescent treatment. She completed her internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Andrus Childrens Center in Westchester, NY. Dr. Feiden has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families facing a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and disruptive behavior disorders. She is formally trained in evidence-based therapies including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and has supervised clinicians in training across various therapeutic modalities. She has provided treatment across diverse settings, including community mental health centers, inpatient and partial hospitalization programs, private practice, and New York City private schools. She is experienced in collaborating with school teams, including those in progressive and special education settings, to support students social, emotional, and behavioral functioning within the classroom and broader school environment. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Feiden previously served as an assistant director at Big Apple Day Programs summer treatment camp, where she supported children and families navigating the social and emotional aspects of camp life, drawing on... * [Margaret Areizaga](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/margaret-areizaga-psyd/) - Senior Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychologist> **Bio:** Dr. Margaret Areizaga is a New York State licensed psychologist (#021636) who received her B.A. in Psychology from Mercy College, her M.A. in Psychology in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Rutgers University. She is a certified therapist in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and a Within Agency Trainer in PCIT, and is also trained in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE). Dr. Areizaga has extensive experience training, supervising, and consulting with clinical psychology trainees, licensed psychologists, and social workers in the implementation of evidence-based treatments, including PCIT. She is also skilled in providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), parent management training (PMT), and exposure and response prevention (ERP), tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of her clients. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents, with expertise in anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, selective mutism, oppositional defiant disorder, and ADHD. She also works with adults, particularly those seeking support for anxiety, executive functioning difficulties, stress management, and parenting-related challenges that impact relationships, work, school, health, sleep, and family functioning. Dr. Areizaga uses evidence-based approaches to help clients achieve their goals and improve overall well-being. She has delivered individual an... * [Laken Waibel](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/laken-waibel-bcba-lba/) - Director of Recruiting> **Bio:** ... * [Erin Eales](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/erin-eales/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Alejandro Noyola](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/alejandro-noyola-bcba/) - MPG Clinical Supervisor of ABA; Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Mr. Alejandro Miguel Noyola is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-19-39888) and a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT-17-42329). He graduated with a Masters in Special Education with the program focusing on Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University. During his program, he conducted a research project focused on increasing physical activity with children diagnosed with ASD. As he was completing his degree, he gained experience in the field as an RBT/ABA where he worked with children improving their daily living skills and gaining experience working with the lead analyst in conducting assessments. Alejandro has experience working with toddlers and teens implementing evidenced-based strategies making socially significant changes in the home environment as well as in the community. He shares a passion for collaborating with team members to increase the quality of life of the individuals he works with. Although Alejandros main target clientele is working with children diagnosed with ASD, he also has the experience and has successfully worked with children, teens, and adults who display a wide range of behaviors modifying them to establish from a range of socially acceptable behaviors to life-improving behaviors. Through his work on the field, Alejandro has experience in NET (Natural Environment Teaching), DTT (Discrete Trial Training), and other ABA teaching protocols. Also, he has experience using video conferencing tools in conducting parent training and runnin... * [Katherine Matthews](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/katherine-matthews-ba/) - Business Operations & Development Manager> **Bio:** ... * [Justine Caputi](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/justine-caputi-msed-bcba/) - MPG Clinical Training Supervisor of ABA; Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Justine Caputi is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-16-24430) and Certified Special Education Teacher in New York State. She received her undergraduate degree in Special Education and General Education (K-12) from Cabrini College. Justine completed her Masters Degree in Special Education with a focus in Behavior Disorders, and obtained an advanced graduate degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis at Hunter College. Justine is passionate about working collaboratively with families and educators to carefully curate and provide individualized socially-significant programming in order to best support clients at school and in the home. Helping parents and educators gain a deeper understanding of abilities, decrease problem behaviors, and increase functional life skills is Justines top priority. Watching students reach their potential and gain meaningful life skills with the help of ABA, a variety of evidence-based practices, and a collaborative team keeps her inspired. Justine has spent a significant amount of time in a variety of educational settings for individuals ages 5-21 on the Autism Spectrum including public schools, private schools, and a charter school designing and implementing ABA programs that meet student and family needs. Over the years, she has been providing DTT (discrete trial training for early learners), NET (Natural Environment Teaching for more advanced young learners), and SET (Social and Emotional Training for adolescents). She has experience conducting ... * [Nevena Savic](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/nevena-savic-bcba-lba/) - MPG Clinical Supervisor of ABA, Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Michelle Charles](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/michelle-charles-ma-bcba-lba/) - Clinical Director of Behavioral & Educational Services; Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Michelle is a New York Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (1-18-31395) and has over a decade of professional experience serving children with Autism and other developmental disabilities. She received her bachelors degree with a dual concentration in psychology and criminology from Ohio State University and went on to receive her masters degree in Behavior Analysis from Ball State University. Since 2010, Michelle has developed and implemented behavior analytic programming across 5 states as a BCBA and Clinical Director, working with children and their families to create well-rounded approaches that not only build skill sets, but teach children that learning can be fun. She feels passionate about promoting highly effective and ethical practices and achieving a balance between work and play, with a heavy emphasis on teaching within play and the natural environment. Michelle has extensive experience in developing programming to increase language, social, and play skills and utilizing a variety of assessments (including VB-MAPP, PEAK, EFL, etc), as well as implementing functional analysis and functional behavior assessments to build function-based intervention strategies for moderate to severe behavioral problems. Michelle has worked with individuals ranging in age from 18 months to 22 years old, with a primary focus on early intervention (2-8 years old). She has experience with utilizing a variety of communication systems such as picture exchange, signs and modified signs,... * [Runqin Shi](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/runqin-shi-ma/) - Clinical Extern> **Bio:** Runqin Shi is a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) who is dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally informed care. She is currently completing her doctoral training at the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University. Runqin earned a Master of Arts in Psychology in Education: Clinical Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Brain Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Runqin has gained diverse clinical experience across university counseling centers, outpatient clinics, and hospital settings. She has provided individual therapy to undergraduate and graduate students, co-facilitated group workshops on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and stress management, and conducted clinical screenings and risk assessments at Pace Counseling Center. Her prior training includes conducting comprehensive cognitive and personality assessments and completing integrated reports at the Parnes Clinic. She also has experience assisting with suicide risk screening, cognitive assessments, and inpatient rounds at Mount Sinai Beth Israels inpatient unit and the Shanghai Mental Health Center. Runqins clinical and research focus is on suicide prevention, multicultural psychotherapy, and supporting the mental health of Asian and Asian American populations. She is committed to understanding how cultural factors influence the experience of distress, the therapeutic relationship, and access to ca... * [Myriam Ahmad](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/myriam-ahmad-bs/) - Clinical Extern> **Bio:** Myriam Ahmad, M.A., is a doctoral student at Long Island University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Business Administration from Rutgers University. Myriam joins Manhattan Psychology Group (MPG) to further her advanced clinical training in specialized areas, including neuropsychological testing and evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). With a warm, client-centered approach, Myriam is dedicated to providing personalized care and support to children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience spans a range of presenting concerns, including executive functioning challenges, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive (OCD) and related concerns. Her holistic therapeutic approach emphasizes collaborative planning and the integration of empirically-based interventions. Specifically, she utilizes CBT techniques such as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Parent Management Training (PMT) for anxiety and OCD-related presentations. She also incorporates ACT and DBT-informed skills, focusing on self-as-context, values clarification, distress tolerance, and mindfulness practice. Myriam is committed to creating a safe and warm therapeutic environment, prioritizing support for clients to achieve meaningful, long-term psychological growth and healing. Her professional interests center on fostering client insight into personal strengths, es... * [Ashley Qiu](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/ashley-qiu-ma/) - Clinical Extern> **Bio:** ... * [Kelsey Berg](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/kelsey-berg-bs/) - Clinical Intern> **Bio:** ... * [Jen Chie](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/jen-chie-ba/) - Clinical Extern> **Bio:** Jen Chie, MT-BC, NMT, is currently a doctoral student in Counseling Psychology at Felician University. She holds dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Music Therapy and Psychology from Montclair State University and is committed to advanced training in psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and evidence-based interventions. Jen is a Board-Certified Music Therapist and is also certified in Neurologic Music Therapy. Jen works with children, adolescents, and adults across diverse medical, psychiatric, and academic support settings. Her clinical expertise is in supporting individuals managing anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, psychiatric disorders, and medical-related stressors. She currently serves as a Music Therapist and Creative Arts Therapist in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, where she facilitates therapeutic groups, collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, and develops targeted interventions focused on emotional expression, coping skills, and overall wellness. Her extensive prior experience includes working with pediatric populations in hospital environments, medically complex children, and undergraduate students navigating academic and emotional challenges. Jen is dedicated to utilizing creative and evidence-based approaches, with a primary focus on psychotherapy and music-based interventions. She is actively refining her clinical skills in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches and expanding her knowledge of psychological assessment. Her areas of spe... * [Ngozi Igwe](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/ngozi-igwe-ma/) - Clinical Extern> **Bio:** Ngozi Igwe is a pre-doctoral student in Counseling Psychology at Felician University. She earned her Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and her Bachelors degree in Psychology from Montclair State University. She maintains a certification from the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) and is a dedicated member of the New Jersey Psychological Association (NJPA). Ngozi has nearly a decade of experience providing mental health support to children, adolescents, and adults in diverse environments, including schools and clinics. Her background encompasses roles as a Mental Health Technician, ABA Therapist, and Therapist Intern, where she delivered individual, group, and family support services, as well as crisis intervention, particularly for marginalized populations. Additionally, she is an active participant in Felician University's GRIT Program, offering mentorship and mental health support to undergraduate students. Committed to cultural competence, Ngozi approaches every client with care and respect, striving to meet them exactly where they are. She is passionate about mental health education and actively works to break down the stigma associated with seeking therapeutic services. Her clinical focus includes working with children and adolescents, utilizing strengths-based approaches, and employing modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. Ngozi is dedicated to using all available resources to provide... * [Edward Pinkhasik](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/edward-pinkhasik-ba/) - Clinical Extern> **Bio:** Edward Pinkhasik (Eddie) is a bilingual doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology program at Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the Macaulay Honors program at CUNY Baruch College. He has provided therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults across a range of clinical settings, including community health clinics, college counseling centers, and outpatient behavioral health clinics. Through these experiences, he has worked with individuals presenting with a wide variety of concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related difficulties, ADHD, and relational challenges. He also has experience providing both individual and family therapy, with a focus on fostering meaningful growth and emotional well-being. Eddies therapeutic style is integrative, collaborative, and client centered. He draws from attachment-based and relational frameworks while incorporating evidence-based approaches. He has a strong foundational training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Children and Adolescents. In his work with younger clients, he often integrates play therapy techniques to strengthen therapeutic rapport and support emotional expression and insight. He values tailoring treatment to each clien... * [Grace Gilmore](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/grace-gilmore-ba/) - Clinical Intern> **Bio:** ... * [Marbelyn Cepeda](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/marbelyn-cepeda-ms/) - Clinical Intern> **Bio:** Marbelyn Cepeda, MS, is a dedicated clinician focused on supporting children and families navigating crisis and systemic challenges. She is currently advancing toward licensure in mental health counseling at Liberty University and holds a Master of Science in Conflict Resolution from Columbia University. Her therapeutic approach is centered on systemic family dynamics and solution-focused techniques, which allow her to facilitate meaningful change for her clients. Marbelyns clinical experience is rooted in providing advocacy and intervention for at-risk youth and families. As a Family Team Conference Facilitator at Forestdale Inc., she refined her clinical skills by mediating complex family conflicts and collaborating with case managers to develop actionable safety plans. Furthermore, her work as a Case Manager at Samaritan Daytop Village involved conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments and utilizing a strengths-based approach to guide homeless families toward stability and self-sufficiency. Her diverse roles have provided her with extensive experience in crisis intervention and interdisciplinary collaboration. Fluent in English and Spanish, Marbelyn excels at building rapport and providing culturally competent care to diverse populations. She specializes in trauma-informed care and family systems. Marbelyn integrates her expertise in conflict mediation with solution-focused techniques, utilizing therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing and crisis de... * [Aditya Vasavan](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/aditya-vasavan-ma/) - Clinical Extern> **Bio:** ... * [Serena Mainiero](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/serena-mainiero-psyd/) - Clinical Psychology Postdoctoral Fellow> **Bio:** ... * [Kylie Davis](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/kylie-davis-psyd-msed/) - Clinical Psychology Postdoctoral Fellow> **Bio:** ... * [Samantha Mann](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/8624/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Samantha Mann is a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (001494) and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-16-24230). She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology with a focus in Social Psychology from Radford University.  Samantha completed her Masters Degree in School Psychology and advanced graduate degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis at George Mason University.Samantha is passionate about training ABA therapists and working closely with families and educators in order to create the best environment to ensure student success. Helping parents and educators gain a deeper understanding of their student, decrease problem behaviors, and increase functional life skills is Samantha's top priority. Watching students reach their potential and gain meaningful life skills with the help of ABA and a variety of evidence-based practices is what keeps her motivated.Samantha has spent a significant amount of time in schools and homes designing and implementing ABA programs that meet student and family needs.  She has experience conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments and writing Behavioral Intervention Plans. Samantha is particularly passionate about supporting caregivers and educators in the implementation of behavior plans.  Having caregivers feel in control of their environments while safely teaching children new skills is her number one goal.Samantha is skilled at providing both DTT (discrete trial training for early learners) and NET (Natural Environment Teaching fo... * [Shoba Bharratt](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/shoba-bharratt-ma-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Shoba Bharratt is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-18-31222) living and working in Long Island, New York. She studied psychology during her undergraduate years at the State University of New York at Stony Brook and received her Bachelor of Arts Degree.  An interest in psychology and education lead her to study Human Development - Psychology at Teachers College Columbia University where she obtained her Master of Arts Degree. It was during her years at Teachers College that Shoba learned more about Applied Behavior Analysis and her work in the field began.Shoba started working in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as a therapist and was immediately interested in specializing in the field. This lead to postgraduate courses in Applied Behavior Analysis at Hunter College while working and gaining valuable training at the Manhattan Behavior Center in New York City. Upon completion of coursework and other requirements Shoba sat for the board examination and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2018. Currently she works as an in school behavior consultant and an in-home service provider.Shoba has a strong background in creating and implementing behavior plans, in teaching functional skills and in systematically decreasing maladaptive behaviors by teaching functionally based replacement behaviors. She draws from the wealth of knowledge and experience that she's gained over the years by working in the field in different capacities and by collaborating with other professional... * [Deviena Persaud](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/deviena-persaud-msed-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Deviena Persaud is passionate about serving children and adults on the autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities. She holds her Masters in Special Education from Touro University and has over a decade of experience in the field of Behavior Analysis. Deviena began as a teacher's assistant at a very young age working her way up to a teacher and teaching students ranging from ages 3-5 for over five years.She is highly knowledgeable in various aspects relating to autism, behavior analysis and implementation of behavior intervention plans and Functional Behavior Assessments. Deviena has an abundance of skills such as parent training, planning and running social skills groups, academic skills, self-help skills and functional communication skills. She is devoted to designing a curriculum and training future professionals in the field of behavior analysis. Deviena is dedicated and invested to ensuring families receive the highest quality care. She has provided services in settings that include family homes and schools through regular and special education classrooms.  Deviena has an abundance of experience in increasing positive behaviors and decreasing maladaptive behaviors. She is highly efficient in taking data on behaviors and programs.Deviena furthered her education by obtaining her post-masters in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Cincinnati. She then sat for her Board Certification Exam in May of 2019 and passed. Deviena is now looking to begin a PhD progr... * [Elena Dezoraiev](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/elena-dezoraiev-msed-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Elena Dezoraiev is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (11726313). She received her undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts, majoring in Psychology from Queens College.  Elena completed her Masters Degree in General Education, and Students With Disabilities, specifically concentration in Autism, and an advanced graduate degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis at Long Island University C.W.Post.Elena has spent 5 years working as a teacher for a non-profit private school for individuals with disabilities ages 5 to 21. During that time she applied and implemented ABA principals to meet her students and families needs individually. Elena has experience in creating programs and working on skills such as: Communication; PECS and AAC devices, Adaptive living Skills (ADL), and academic skills, all which were provide via DTT (discrete trial training) and NET (Natural Environment Teaching). She has worked with individuals with wide variety of functioning levels and maladaptive behaviors, and has experience in conducting and implementing Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and writing Behavior Implementation plans (BIP) to help teach and improve adaptive behaviors.Elena has also spent over a year providing Autism and ABA trainings and classroom supports to public school staff members who work with students with disabilities and to the parents of children with Autism. Topics of the presented trainings varied from Toilet training, to data collection, to social and communication skills and mor... * [Nicole Forrest](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/nicole-g-forrest-msed/) - Special Education Teacher and Behavior Specialist> **Bio:** ... * [Rochelle Drew](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/rochelle-drew-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Executive Function Coaching> **Bio:** Rochelle Drew is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA 18-30201) and brings over six years of experience with her. She graduated with her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Upper Iowa University and received her master's degree in psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis from Kaplan University. Rochelle started out as an ABA therapist providing one-to-one services for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as well as other physical, social/behavioral and cognitive disabilities. Rochelle has worked with multiple client populations, serving both children and adults in many different settings (in-home, schools, and clinics). She has a passion for decreasing maladaptive behaviors, parent training, functional communication and social skills groups.Rochelle is passionate about both her clients making progress and the science of behavior analysis in enabling that progress. Rochelle believes strongly in the power of teamwork and in the mission of providing exceptional empirical-based strategies and family-centered therapies based in principles of ABA. Rochelle brings compassion, empathy, respect to every individual and family she works with. Rochelle is experienced in conducting skills and functional assessments; designing and implementing skills acquisition, and behavioral interventions and working with families to increase their knowledge and strategies. Over the past few years Rochelle has worked in both the structured setting of discrete tr... * [Pat Murano](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/pat-murano-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Pat Murano  is a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (000225) and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-12-12093). He received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from New York University.  Pat completed his Masters Degree in Educational Psychology at Capella University and his advanced graduate degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis at The University of North TexasPat has spent the last 20 years working closely with families in an effort to improve the lives of everyone in the home. As a Behavior Analyst, his work has included providing direct care, conducting assessments, designing behavioral interventions, training staff and supervision.He feels passionately about working with children to give them the tools they need to thrive at home, at school and within the community.  His strategy for accomplishing this is by reducing problematic behavior with an eye toward meaningfully replacing those behaviors with skills that allow the child's needs to be met in more functional and socially appropriate ways.Pat deeply values the input and involvement of parents.  Over the course of his career, he has worked closely with them to better understand their children's needs, while also teaching skills that allow parents to better support and guide their children towards success.Pat has also spent many years in conjunction with various schools around the city, working closely with staff and administration to create interventions that target issues while developing strategies to bet... * [Amanda Mentzer](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/amanda-mentzer-phd-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Dr. Amanda Mentzer is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA #1-09-5749)  and a Licensed Behavior Analyst in New York (LBA #000942). She earned a bachelor of science in psychology and a master of arts in psychology from Pennsylvania State University (PSU), The Capital College in 2005 and 2007, respectively. While attending the City University of New York (CUNY), Dr. Mentzer earned a master of arts in general psychology from Queens College in 2010 and a master and doctor of philosophy in psychology from The Graduate School and University Center in 2013 and 2017, respectively. She is a graduate of the Learning Processes and Behavior Analysis subprogram in Psychology and served as a member of the Organizational Behavior Management laboratory.Dr. Mentzer acquired experiential learning while earning degrees. At PSU, Dr. Mentzer created performance appraisals for direct care employees at a school for learners with autism, implemented treatment procedures for children with feeding challenges at a pediatric feeding clinic, and created and implemented educational programming for learners with autism in their homes. At CUNY, Dr. Mentzer conducted and presented applied research on performance feedback and postural safety using humans and experimental research on stimulus control using pigeons.As an adjunct assistant professor at Queens College, CUNY, Dr. Mentzer served undergraduate students and the psychology department for 11 years. As a provider, parent trainer, and supervisor for ... * [Benjamin Garfein](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/benjamin-garfein-msed-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Benjamin Garfein is a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (000307-01) and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-12-10334). He received his undergraduate degree in English from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Ben completed his Masters Degree in Early Childhood/ Childhood Special Education and obtained a graduate degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Mercy College.Ben was introduced to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis in 2002 in Madison, Wisconsin. There, he began working as a 1:1 behavior therapist in home and school-based settings to address the needs of individual students with autism. He quickly developed a passion for teaching and working with students with disabilities using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. Over the years, Ben has worked with students from age 2 to 23, providing services in classrooms, the community and home. He prides himself on his ability to establish productive meaningful relationships with students, parents, and teachers alike to create personalized solutions to whatever challenges they may face.After attaining his master's degree in education, Ben became a certified BCBA in January of 2012. He enjoys the challenge of problem solving and individualizing evidence based curricula for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, speech and language impairments, social skill needs and behavior management issues. He has designed functional academic, social, life skill and behavioral programs for students. Ben is adept at ... * [Christina Lindberg](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/christina-lindberg-mat-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Christina Lindberg is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (11624359). She received her Bachelors in Psychology from St. John's University in 2012. Christina received her Masters in General Education and Students with Disabilities 1-6 with a concentration on Applied Behavior Analysis from Queens College in 2016.Christina began teaching at a non-profit organization for students with Autism aged 5-21 in 2015. She has mostly taught adolescent students and has experience in implementing self-monitoring systems, life skills training and vocational training. Christina also has experience in teaching functional communication with both vocal students, and those with PECS and AAC devices. She has worked with students that exhibit a wide variety of maladaptive behaviors and is proficient in conducting Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and developing Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP). Christina particularly enjoys implementing natural environment teaching in her classroom to ensure the skills being taught are meaningful and effective in her student's everyday lives. After teaching for five years, Christina began supervising as a Curriculum Coordinator within the same school. In this role she is involved in supervising and training staff utilizing Behavioral Skills Training (BST) in protocols such as conditioning instructors as reinforcers, preference assessments, and mand training.Christina has been involved in several research projects and has presented a poster at the Association fo... * [Khadija Prowell](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/khadija-prowell-msed-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Khadija Prowell is a professionally certified Early Childhood Educator and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).  She started her career over 10 years ago as a Head Start Teacher's Assistant, in which she encountered young children with various learning and developmental abilities.  Eager to acquire more knowledge and apply learned skills with her students, she completed her Dual Master's Degree in Early Childhood General Education and Special Education at Hunter College in 2012.  Eventually she gained more experience in integrated settings at an educational and therapeutic facility that worked with young students with diverse learning abilities.  It was here that she began building experience as a Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT).  Later, while continuing to pursue her passion in the special education field, as well as moving up as a Teacher mentor, Site Director and Educational Consultant she came upon the opportunity to work as a Special Education Teacher Support Service (SETSS) and ABA therapist for individuals with developmental delays and other disorders, as well as with autistic individuals.She continued to move forward and pursue her post- graduate Advanced Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis at Hunter College, ultimately obtaining her Board Certification (BCBA) in March 2020. Currently, Khadija is looking forward to and working towards obtaining her NYS- LBA (Licensed Behavior Analyst).  She takes pride in her learning experiences and deeply underst... * [Danielle Cameron](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/danielle-cameron-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Danielle F. Cameron is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-19-39137) and a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (002034). She majored in Education and Psychology during her undergraduate years at the City University of New York at Queens College. During her student teaching semester, Danielle learned about the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Her interest then shifted from early childhood education to Applied Behavior Analysis. After graduating with her Bachelor of Arts Degree, Danielle went on to complete her Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis at Queens College and began her work in the field.Throughout her training, Danielle has worked in multiple settings while working with individuals with a variety of diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Danielle has worked as an ABA therapist both in home and in schools working 1:1 with individuals aged 2-21. She has experience in creating and implementing and creating behavior plans, teaching functional skills to increase independence while systematically decreasing maladaptive behaviors by teaching functionally based replacement behaviors.Due to her experience working with a wide variety of individuals and different skill sets, Danielle has immense experience with Discrete Trial Teaching. Additionally, she has provided parent/guardian training and written training goals to increase generalization across various environments. She believes collaboration... * [Kristin Fayad](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/kristin-fayad-m-a-m-ed-bcba-lba-ny/) - MPG Clinical Supervisor of ABA; Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Kristin Fayad is a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.  She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Rutgers University in New Jersey. During her undergraduate studies, she enrolled in a fieldwork experience at the Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center (DDDC), which is where she decided to further her education in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She decided to pursue her Masters in Education at the Graduate School of Education (GSE) at Rutgers University in New Jersey while providing home-based ABA therapy to her own clients. She became a certified Special Education and Elementary Education Teacher in New Jersey.Once she finished her Masters, she continued to provide ABA therapy services and completed an online BCBA course sequence at the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT). The lessons learned from the professionals online were both informative and inspiring. She completed this coursework in 2013, and began searching for supervisory experience, which is when she decided to pursue a Masters degree in Teaching as Applied Behavior Analysis at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York. In her second year of the Masters program, Kristin taught a self-contained classroom with students from 3rd to 5th grade using the CABAS (Comprehensive Application of Behavior Analysis to Schooling). She used evidence-based ABA instructional approaches and curricula including Direct Instruction (DI) in collaboration with ment... * [Haeri Gim](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/haeri-gim-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Kelsey Loynaz](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/kelsey-loynaz-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Yanique Marchant](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/yanique-marchant-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Andrew Ng](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/andrew-ng-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Michael Mitchell](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/michael-mitchell-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Marleni Mallol](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/marleni-mallol-special-educator-bcba/) - Special Educator and Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Marleni Mallol is a Special Educator (2751523) living and working in New York City. She studied Human Services and Mental Health during her undergraduate years. In 2010, She furthered her studies by obtaining a Bachelor's Degree from Lehman College in Speech Pathology and Audiology. During this journey, she learned more about an Early Intervention-Special Education and Dual Certification Bilingual Extension program at the same college and decided to pursue a graduate degree and teaching certifications to help children with diverse needs. While studying at Lehman College, she worked for three years as an intern-teacher's assistant at an Integrated Co-Teaching classroom in the Bronx, New York supporting children with diverse needs.After she graduated, she traveled to the Dominican Republic, Ecuador and Peru on a missionary trip with the purpose of providing supplies, quality resources and compassionate support to families and children in need. This trip was extremely rewarding for Marleni and inspired her to embark in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help families and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other disabilities.This journey led Marleni to acquire a postgraduate advance certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Hunter College in 2020. In June 2021, Marleni successfully completed  the prerequisites to be eligible to sit for the Board Certification exam. Marleni is currently working as a Special Educator/Behavior Therapist, providing center... * [Odalis Hernandez](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/odalis-hernandez-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Marleni Mallol is a Special Educator (2751523) living and working in New York City. She studied Human Services and Mental Health during her undergraduate years. In 2010, She furthered her studies by obtaining a Bachelor's Degree from Lehman College in Speech Pathology and Audiology. During this journey, she learned more about an Early Intervention-Special Education and Dual Certification Bilingual Extension program at the same college and decided to pursue a graduate degree and teaching certifications to help children with diverse needs. While studying at Lehman College, she worked for three years as an intern-teacher's assistant at an Integrated Co-Teaching classroom in the Bronx, New York supporting children with diverse needs.After she graduated, she traveled to the Dominican Republic, Ecuador and Peru on a missionary trip with the purpose of providing supplies, quality resources and compassionate support to families and children in need. This trip was extremely rewarding for Marleni and inspired her to embark in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help families and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other disabilities.This journey led Marleni to acquire a postgraduate advance certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Hunter College in 2020. In June 2021, Marleni successfully completed  the prerequisites to be eligible to sit for the Board Certification exam. Marleni is currently working as a Special Educator/Behavior Therapist, providing center... * [Gina Sterling](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/gina-sterling-special-educator/) - Special Educator> **Bio:** Gina Sterling is an educator with over 15 years of experience and service to diverse communities across New York City and the Greater New York Area. She holds a Dual Master of Science degree in Early Childhood General and Special Education from the College of New Rochelle.Gina has dedicated her practice to providing culturally sensitive teaching and training methods to children with special needs, neurodevelopmental challenges, and behavioral issues. She gained a wealth of knowledge and experience working with colleagues in different disciplines, eventually leading interdisciplinary teams herself-and worked within the home, school, and community environments to enhance children's overall progress and development.In 2007, Gina started to work in several underserved communities within Bronx County to address gaps in service delivery in Early Intervention and other early childhood services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) therapist, her passion and clinical experience in early childhood development and special education have motivated her to expand further her scope of practice by understanding the different modalities that utilize verbal behavior and behavioral interventions. She pursued postgraduate education in Applied Behavior Analysis at Manhattanville College, where she learned how to create and implement behavior plans, decrease maladaptive behaviors, and teach socially appropriate behaviors. Gina currently h... * [Alison Whiting](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/alison-whiting-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Gina Sterling is an educator with over 15 years of experience and service to diverse communities across New York City and the Greater New York Area. She holds a Dual Master of Science degree in Early Childhood General and Special Education from the College of New Rochelle.Gina has dedicated her practice to providing culturally sensitive teaching and training methods to children with special needs, neurodevelopmental challenges, and behavioral issues. She gained a wealth of knowledge and experience working with colleagues in different disciplines, eventually leading interdisciplinary teams herself-and worked within the home, school, and community environments to enhance children's overall progress and development.In 2007, Gina started to work in several underserved communities within Bronx County to address gaps in service delivery in Early Intervention and other early childhood services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) therapist, her passion and clinical experience in early childhood development and special education have motivated her to expand further her scope of practice by understanding the different modalities that utilize verbal behavior and behavioral interventions. She pursued postgraduate education in Applied Behavior Analysis at Manhattanville College, where she learned how to create and implement behavior plans, decrease maladaptive behaviors, and teach socially appropriate behaviors. Gina currently h... * [Tyler Conteh](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/tyler-conteh-lba-lp/) - Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Gina Sterling is an educator with over 15 years of experience and service to diverse communities across New York City and the Greater New York Area. She holds a Dual Master of Science degree in Early Childhood General and Special Education from the College of New Rochelle.Gina has dedicated her practice to providing culturally sensitive teaching and training methods to children with special needs, neurodevelopmental challenges, and behavioral issues. She gained a wealth of knowledge and experience working with colleagues in different disciplines, eventually leading interdisciplinary teams herself-and worked within the home, school, and community environments to enhance children's overall progress and development.In 2007, Gina started to work in several underserved communities within Bronx County to address gaps in service delivery in Early Intervention and other early childhood services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) therapist, her passion and clinical experience in early childhood development and special education have motivated her to expand further her scope of practice by understanding the different modalities that utilize verbal behavior and behavioral interventions. She pursued postgraduate education in Applied Behavior Analysis at Manhattanville College, where she learned how to create and implement behavior plans, decrease maladaptive behaviors, and teach socially appropriate behaviors. Gina currently h... * [Chris Borak](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/chris-borak-bcba-lba/) - Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Gina Sterling is an educator with over 15 years of experience and service to diverse communities across New York City and the Greater New York Area. She holds a Dual Master of Science degree in Early Childhood General and Special Education from the College of New Rochelle.Gina has dedicated her practice to providing culturally sensitive teaching and training methods to children with special needs, neurodevelopmental challenges, and behavioral issues. She gained a wealth of knowledge and experience working with colleagues in different disciplines, eventually leading interdisciplinary teams herself-and worked within the home, school, and community environments to enhance children's overall progress and development.In 2007, Gina started to work in several underserved communities within Bronx County to address gaps in service delivery in Early Intervention and other early childhood services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) therapist, her passion and clinical experience in early childhood development and special education have motivated her to expand further her scope of practice by understanding the different modalities that utilize verbal behavior and behavioral interventions. She pursued postgraduate education in Applied Behavior Analysis at Manhattanville College, where she learned how to create and implement behavior plans, decrease maladaptive behaviors, and teach socially appropriate behaviors. Gina currently h... * [Kimberly Halter Ma Bcba Lba](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/kimberly-halter-ma-bcba-lba/) > **Bio:** Gina Sterling is an educator with over 15 years of experience and service to diverse communities across New York City and the Greater New York Area. She holds a Dual Master of Science degree in Early Childhood General and Special Education from the College of New Rochelle.Gina has dedicated her practice to providing culturally sensitive teaching and training methods to children with special needs, neurodevelopmental challenges, and behavioral issues. She gained a wealth of knowledge and experience working with colleagues in different disciplines, eventually leading interdisciplinary teams herself-and worked within the home, school, and community environments to enhance children's overall progress and development.In 2007, Gina started to work in several underserved communities within Bronx County to address gaps in service delivery in Early Intervention and other early childhood services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) therapist, her passion and clinical experience in early childhood development and special education have motivated her to expand further her scope of practice by understanding the different modalities that utilize verbal behavior and behavioral interventions. She pursued postgraduate education in Applied Behavior Analysis at Manhattanville College, where she learned how to create and implement behavior plans, decrease maladaptive behaviors, and teach socially appropriate behaviors. Gina currently h... * [Sarah Goldoff](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/sarah-goldoff-bcba-lba-lp/) > **Bio:** Gina Sterling is an educator with over 15 years of experience and service to diverse communities across New York City and the Greater New York Area. She holds a Dual Master of Science degree in Early Childhood General and Special Education from the College of New Rochelle.Gina has dedicated her practice to providing culturally sensitive teaching and training methods to children with special needs, neurodevelopmental challenges, and behavioral issues. She gained a wealth of knowledge and experience working with colleagues in different disciplines, eventually leading interdisciplinary teams herself-and worked within the home, school, and community environments to enhance children's overall progress and development.In 2007, Gina started to work in several underserved communities within Bronx County to address gaps in service delivery in Early Intervention and other early childhood services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) therapist, her passion and clinical experience in early childhood development and special education have motivated her to expand further her scope of practice by understanding the different modalities that utilize verbal behavior and behavioral interventions. She pursued postgraduate education in Applied Behavior Analysis at Manhattanville College, where she learned how to create and implement behavior plans, decrease maladaptive behaviors, and teach socially appropriate behaviors. Gina currently h... * [Blanca Franck](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/blanca-franck-bcba/) - MPG Clinical Supervisor of ABA; Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Blanca Franck is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-22-60017) and New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (002449) living and working in Queens, New York. She studied psychology and drama theater with a minor in student personnel during her undergraduate years at the City University of Queens College and received her Bachelor of Arts Degree. A passion for youth development, psychology, and education led her to study Applied Behavior Analysis and Education at Teachers College Columbia University, where she obtained her Dual Master of Arts Degree. During her years at Teachers College, Blanca developed her skills in effective Applied Behavior Analysis practices and began her work in the field.For several years before Teachers College, Blanca started working in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as a registered behavior technician and was immediately interested in specializing in the field. This led to an interest in ABA within the classroom environment. While at Teachers College, Blanca began working and gaining experience in both a private and general education school setting. Additionally, Blanca continued working as an in-home service provider. Upon completing coursework and other requirements, Blanca sat for the board examination and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2022. Currently, she works as an in-home service provider.Blanca has obtained her New York initial certifications in teaching for Students with Disabilities Birth – 2, Students with Disabilities 1 – ... * [Ganna Bartasheva](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/ganna-bartasheva-ms-ma-bcba-lba-lp/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Ganna Bartasheva is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-21-54097) and a Licensed Behavior Analyst working under limited permit (P113195) in New York State. She holds degrees of a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from CUNY Hunter College and a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education from Kharkiv National University (Ukraine). She also completed her doctoral program in Linguistics and Germanic Languages at Kharkiv National University in 2004 and has over two decades of professional teaching experience.Ganna is a member of professional organizations such as Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and New York State Association for Behavior Analysis (NYSABA); with her background in linguistics, she has a special interest in studying and teaching verbal behavior and has presented her research at professional conferences.Ganna entered the field of Applied Behavior Analysis as a behavior technician, providing services for children with autism spectrum disorder while completing her master's degree. Working as a behavior technician allowed her to gain valuable practical training and hands-on experience in implementation of skill acquisition programs and behavior plans. Since then, Ganna has provided services in various settings including homes, centers, schools, and communities; conducted assessments; and developed individualized treatment plans to ensure acquisition of socially significant and meaningful life skills for her clients.Ganna is a multil... * [Moraima Crespo Dios](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/moraima-crespo-dios-ma-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Marietta Wrzesc](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/marietta-wrzesc/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** ... * [Victoria Camacho](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/victoria-camacho-ma-bcba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Victoria Camacho is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (1-21-56351).  Victoria received her Bachelor's degree in Education at the City College of New York and a Master's degree in Education Administration and Supervision from St. Peter's University. She is currently pursuing her license as a New York State Behavior Analyst.Victoria has over twenty-five years of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) experience, working with children with autism and other developmental disabilities.  Victoria's passion for her work started while studying for her undergraduate degree during an internship with the City College of New York.  It was during her internship that she experienced the science and methodologies used by her mentor, a BCBA, and how those therapies helped students gain necessary communication and life skills.Ms. Camacho has worked as a special education teacher in the Ridgefield New Jersey school district for over three years, providing ABA in a self-contained classroom setting with children grades 4 through 6. She also worked with high school students in a similar setting, providing educational school curriculum and life skills. Victoria worked as a home-based ABA provider for many years.Drawing from the inspiration from her undergraduate years, Victoria began pursuing her educational goal of becoming a BCBA.  She went back to school to complete her coursework while working full-time with her students and their families.Victoria's areas of expertise include behavior interventions... * [Yookyung Chang](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/yookyung-chang-ma-bcba-lba/) - Board Certified Behavior Analyst; Licensed Behavior Analyst> **Bio:** Yookyung Chang is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-22-59156) from Queens, New York. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from Barnard College, Columbia University. After graduating, Yookyung worked in various lines of work. However, her interest in ABA grew when she encountered a student with autism while working as an after-school teacher. She always had a passion for working with children, and her deep interest in child development and psychology led her to earn a master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from Queens College, CUNY.Yookyung started working in ABA as a sibling training instructor at her fellowship site, which primarily focused on researching, building, and fostering relationships between children with autism and their typically developing siblings. Additionally, she worked as a skills leader. As a skills leader, she trained other sibling training instructors, created behavior programs for children with autism, and supervised undergraduate students in implementing those programs. Upon completion of the coursework and other requirements, Yookyung sat for the board examination and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2022. Currently, she works as a direct care service provider and continues to participate in sibling relationship research. Yookyung is passionate about ABA and wishes to grow further in her knowledge and experience so that she can continue to help make a meaningful impact in the lives of the many individuals w... * [Marcia Questel Msed Bcba](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/team/marcia-questel-msed-bcba/) > **Bio:** Yookyung Chang is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (1-22-59156) from Queens, New York. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from Barnard College, Columbia University. After graduating, Yookyung worked in various lines of work. However, her interest in ABA grew when she encountered a student with autism while working as an after-school teacher. She always had a passion for working with children, and her deep interest in child development and psychology led her to earn a master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from Queens College, CUNY.Yookyung started working in ABA as a sibling training instructor at her fellowship site, which primarily focused on researching, building, and fostering relationships between children with autism and their typically developing siblings. Additionally, she worked as a skills leader. As a skills leader, she trained other sibling training instructors, created behavior programs for children with autism, and supervised undergraduate students in implementing those programs. Upon completion of the coursework and other requirements, Yookyung sat for the board examination and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2022. Currently, she works as a direct care service provider and continues to participate in sibling relationship research. Yookyung is passionate about ABA and wishes to grow further in her knowledge and experience so that she can continue to help make a meaningful impact in the lives of the many individuals w... --- ## Latest News & Medical Blog * [Is My Teen's Behavior Defiance, or a Diagnostic Gap?](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/is-my-teen-s-behavior-defiance-or-a-diagnostic-gap/) - Published: Oct 12, 2026> **Article Content:** By Joshua Rosenthal, PsyD Your teenager knows they're supposed to finish their homework, and still doesn't, no matter how many times you remind them. From the outside, it looks like they're not trying or just refusing to cooperate. Sometimes it's actually a skill gap nobody has identified yet, and comprehensive testing for teen behavior problems exists to answer exactly that question. When a pattern doesn't respond to typical parenting approaches or consequences, testing can show whether undiagnosed autism, ADHD, or another neurodevelopmental difference is creating obstacles that look like opposition from the outside and feel very different from the inside. Why Teenage Behavior Is So Hard to Read A lot of what looks like inconsistency in a teenager is really executive function still under construction. Executive function is actually made of five separate skills: organization, working memory, initiation, flexible thinking, and time management. A teen can be strong in one and genuinely struggle with another, which is why the same kid who remembers every detail of a video game can still lose the same permission slip three weeks running. A few other things make this teenager stage especially demanding. A teen's brain responds more strongly to quick rewards than an adult's does, and a phone notification is a quick reward, a small hit of interest or connection the second it appears. That makes it much harder to ignore than a task that may be effortful. Teens also tend to fall aslee... * [How Exercise Can Benefit Your Teen’s Mental Health](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/how-exercise-can-benefit-your-teen-s-mental-health/) - Published: Sep 18, 2026> **Article Content:** Ask a New York parent why their kid plays a sport or takes a dance class, and the typical answers would be it keeps them fit, it looks good on college applications, and it gives them somewhere to put all that energy. While those are valid reasons, engaging your child in movement also helps to develop a sense of mastery, a stronger sense of who they are, the ability to stay steady under pressure, and a nervous system that's actually learned how to calm itself down. New York childhoods may be filled with evaluation such as grades, auditions, and rankings. Almost all of the feedback a kid gets is about some result that's judged by someone else such as a teacher. Movement is one of the only places left where they have full control of their progress, something they feel in their own body, that nobody else gets to argue with or grade. In this article, we will cover what physical activity actually builds in kids and teens psychologically, what the research says about the brain mechanics behind it, and how parents can support that without turning it into one more thing to perform at. Getting Better at Something, On Your Own Terms Therapists who use cognitive behavioral approaches point to three experiences that may lift a low or stuck mood: pleasure, play, and mastery. Pleasure is simply feeling good while moving. Play is doing something with no grade attached to it at all. Mastery is the specific feeling of actually getting better at something: a cleaner stroke, a faster mile, a lan... * [Executive Functioning Skills for Kids: Why "Get Organized" Advice Doesn't Work](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/executive-functioning-skills-for-kids-why-get-organized-advice-doesn-t-work/) - Published: Sep 10, 2026> **Article Content:** By Joshua Rosenthal, PsyD Here's a scene a lot of parents will recognize. A missing homework assignment turns into a full-blown fight at the kitchen table. Your kid's backpack slowly turns into a landfill of crumpled worksheets, permission slips they swear they already turned in, and homework you didn't even know was assigned. Getting out the door in the morning takes twenty extra minutes and at least one meltdown, usually over a missing shoe or a shirt that suddenly feels wrong. It's easy to read all of this as a motivation problem, something a better reward system or a firmer consequence should be able to fix. We often see families run into something else entirely. Signs of Executive Functioning Issues in Kids All of that, the lost papers, the meltdown over a missing shoe, the fight over homework, comes down to something called executive function. Executive function isn't about intelligence or effort. It's a set of five separate mental skills that let a child plan, start, and follow through on a task: organization, working memory, initiation, flexible thinking, and time management. The backpack full of crumpled worksheets points to weak organization. The meltdown over a missing shoe at seven in the morning points to trouble with initiation, actually getting a task started once the clock is working against you. Different skills, different problems, even though from the outside they can look like the same thing: a kid who 'just won't get it together.' A child can be strong... * [How Social Media and Gaming Are Introducing Teens to Gambling](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/teen-gambling-and-social-media-what-parents-need-to-know/) - Published: Aug 27, 2026> **Article Content:** For many parents, gambling may seem like something that happens in casinos, sportsbooks, or lottery shopsnot something their child encounters while playing a video game, watching sports, or scrolling through social media. But the digital landscape has changed. A new 2026 report from Common Sense Media, Betting on Boys: Understanding Gambling Among Adolescent Boys, examined gambling and gambling-related activities among 1,017 boys ages 11 to 17 in the United States. The findings show that gambling can enter adolescents' lives through gaming, sports, social media, friends, and even family activities. For parents, the issue isn't simply whether a teenager is placing a traditional sports bet. It's understanding how gambling can become normalized long before a young person ever downloads a betting app. Gambling Doesn't Always Look Like Gambling Today's teens may encounter gambling-like experiences in places they already spend time. Common Sense Media's research divided gambling-related activities into three broad categories: online gaming-related activities, sports-related gambling, and traditional gambling. Gaming-related activities included spending real money on random rewards such as loot boxes and trading or betting with in-game items purchased with real money. Sports-related activities included fantasy sports, sports betting, and in-game betting. This distinction matters because some activities may not legally or academically be classified as gambling. However, the report no... * [Teen Gambling & Social Media: What Parents Need to Know](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/teen-gambling-social-media-what-parents-need-to-know/) - Published: Aug 27, 2026> **Article Content:** For many parents, gambling may seem like something that happens in casinos, sportsbooks, or lottery shops. But today's teenagers can encounter gambling-related content without ever entering a casino or intentionally searching for betting information. A teenager might be watching an NBA trade discussion, scrolling through soccer highlights, following a favorite creator, watching a podcast, or seeing a video about a celebrity. Increasingly, some of these conversations can lead to prediction markets, where users put money behind predictions about real-world events. Platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket have helped bring prediction markets into mainstream online culture, with markets involving sports, politics, entertainment, culture, and other events. The American Psychological Association recently examined this emerging form of gambling, noting that prediction markets are expanding gambling into areas beyond traditional sports betting while researchers are still working to understand their potential risks. For parents, an important question is: What happens when gambling starts to look less like gambling and more like entertainment? Teen Gambling Is Already More Common Than Many Parents Realize A 2026 Common Sense Media study surveyed 1,017 boys ages 11 to 17 across the United States. Researchers found that 36% of boys reported participating in gambling or gambling-related activities during the previous year. The percentage increased with age, from 32% among 11-year-olds to 4... * [When Managing Your Child's Care Leads to Burnout](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/when-managing-your-childs-care-leads-to-burnout/) - Published: Aug 27, 2026> **Article Content:** By Joshua Rosenthal, PsyD If you're the parent of a child with ADHD, autism, or a behavioral diagnosis, burnout usually doesn't come from parenting itself. It comes from everything layered on top of parenting: therapy schedules, school meetings, insurance calls, and a level of coordination most parents never have to think about. That mental workload adds up, and it can add up fast. For a lot of the families we work with, the turning point isn't one hard day. It's the moment a parent realizes they're running a small operation: tracking ABA session notes, prepping for IEP meetings, following up on insurance authorizations, and managing three or four providers who don't talk to each other unless someone makes them. None of that shows up on a calendar as parenting. It shows up as a second job with no pay and no days off. Why the Invisible Load Is Often a Major Driver of This Burnout This invisible mental load, the mental tracking and coordination that happens behind the scenes of any visible task, may explain why burnout tends to hit the parent doing the coordinating, not necessarily the parent doing the most hands-on care. Say one parent handles a child's occupational therapy directly: driving to sessions, running the take-home exercises, showing up every week. That may be regarded as real tangible work. But if the other parent is the one who found the therapist, checked whether it was covered, tracked whether progress notes matched the goals from a full evaluation, and followed... * [Preparing for a New School Year: A Summer Checklist for Parents of Children With ADHD](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/preparing-for-a-new-school-year-a-summer-checklist-for-parents-of-children-with-adhd/) - Published: Aug 20, 2026> **Article Content:** For many families, summer is a welcome break from homework, early mornings, and busy school schedules. However, for parents of children with ADHD, summer can also be an important opportunity to prepare for a successful school year ahead. While it may be tempting to put school concerns on hold until September, a little planning during the summer can make a significant difference when classes begin again. From establishing routines to reviewing accommodations, here are five ways parents can help children with ADHD transition smoothly into the new school year. 1. Start Adjusting Sleep Schedules Before School Begins One of the biggest challenges children face when returning to school is adjusting from summer sleep habits to school-year routines. Many children naturally stay up later during summer break, but abrupt schedule changes in late August can make the first weeks of school difficult. Children with ADHD may be particularly sensitive to sleep disruptions because sleep directly affects: Attention Focus Emotional regulation Impulse control Executive functioning Consider gradually shifting bedtime and wake-up times 1530 minutes earlier each week leading up to the start of school. This small adjustment can make mornings significantly easier once school begins. 2. Rebuild Daily Routines Children with ADHD often thrive when expectations are clear and predictable. During the summer, routines can become more relaxed, but reintroducing structure before school starts can help reduce s... * [What Actually Works for Behavior Problems in Teens](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/what-actually-works-for-behavior-problems-in-teens/) - Published: Aug 11, 2026> **Article Content:** By Joshua Rosenthal, PsyD Your teen slams a door, yells over something small, or shuts down completely, and telling them to calm down does nothing. This is what behavior problems in teens actually look like most of the time, like a brain that hasn't finished building the brakes yet. Here is what is happening, and three things that make it worse before we get to what works. Why Behavior Problems Happen Research on adolescent brain development points to two systems behind most of it. One is the limbic system that handles emotion and develops early, which is why it drives strong reactions well before the rest of the brain catches up. The other is the prefrontal cortex that handles logic, planning, and impulse control, and it develops much later, in every teenager. Now lets picture your hand as a simple model of this, based on Dr. Dan Siegels hand model of the brain. Fold your thumb into your palm, then wrap your fingers over it. Your palm is the survival brain, running basic functions like breathing. Your thumb is the feeling brain, driving fight, flight, or freeze. Your fingers, wrapped around it, are the thinking brain, in charge of logic and planning. Now flip your fingers up. That is what happens when the thinking brain goes offline and the feeling brain takes over, sometimes called a flipped lid. Less logic, more raw emotion. If a parent is also flooded at that moment, nothing productive happens between two people running on emotion instead of logic. Three Things That Ma... * [What Can a Neuropsychological Evaluation Tell You That School Testing Can't?](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/what-can-a-neuropsychological-evaluation-tell-you-that-school-testing-cant/) - Published: Jul 30, 2026> **Article Content:** One of the most common questions parents ask is: 'The school already tested my child. Why would we need a private neuropsychological evaluation?' It's an important questionand one that often comes up after a child has been struggling academically, emotionally, or behaviorally despite receiving school-based support. School evaluations can be extremely valuable and often play an important role in determining eligibility for services. However, school testing and private neuropsychological evaluations are designed for different purposes. Understanding the difference can help families decide whether additional information may be beneficial for their child. School Testing vs. Neuropsychological Evaluation: What's the Difference? When schools conduct evaluations, their primary goal is often to determine whether a student qualifies for special education services, accommodations, or support within the educational setting. A private neuropsychological evaluation has a broader purpose. Rather than focusing solely on eligibility, a neuropsychological evaluation seeks to answer a larger question: Why is my child struggling, and what can we do to help? The goal is to develop a comprehensive understanding of how a child thinks, learns, processes information, regulates emotions, and functions in daily life. A More Complete Picture of Your Child A neuropsychological evaluation examines multiple areas of functioning that may impact academic and everyday success. These often include: Intellectu... * [Summer Screen Time: When Should Parents Be Concerned?](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/summer-screen-time-when-should-parents-be-concerned/) - Published: Jul 30, 2026> **Article Content:** For many families, summer brings a familiar challenge: screen time. Without the structure of school, children often spend more time on phones, tablets, gaming systems, computers, and television. While technology can be entertaining, educational, and even social, many parents wonder when increased screen use becomes something to worry about. If your child seems glued to a device this summer, you're not alone. The good news is that screen time itself isn't necessarily the problem. Instead of focusing solely on the number of hours, experts encourage parents to look at how screens are affecting a child's overall functioning. Is Too Much Screen Time Always Bad? Not necessarily. Technology plays an important role in many children's lives. Screens can provide opportunities for learning, creativity, communication, and relaxation. However, problems may arise when screen use begins interfering with important areas of development, including: Sleep Physical activity Family relationships Social interactions Emotional regulation School readiness Daily responsibilities The question is not simply 'How many hours?' but rather, 'How is screen use impacting my child?' Signs Screen Time May Be Becoming a Problem While occasional gaming marathons or movie days are a normal part of summer, parents may want to pay closer attention if they notice: Difficulty Stopping Does your child become extremely upset when asked to put devices away? Some frustration is normal, but intense emotional reactions may... * [Is Summer Learning Loss Real? What NYC Parents Need to Know](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/is-summer-learning-loss-real-what-nyc-parents-need-to-know/) - Published: Jul 30, 2026> **Article Content:** As summer vacation begins, many parents worry about the so-called 'summer slide'the idea that children lose academic skills during the months they're out of school. Headlines and social media posts often make it sound as though every child is destined to fall behind over the summer, but the reality is much more nuanced. So, is summer learning loss real? The answer is yesbut not in the way many parents think. Understanding which children may be most affected and how to support learning without turning summer into another school year can help families strike the right balance between growth, rest, and fun. What Is Summer Learning Loss? Summer learning loss refers to the decline in certain academic skills that can occur when children are not regularly practicing them during school breaks. Research suggests that some children may experience setbacks in areas such as: Reading fluency Reading comprehension Math skills Writing skills Executive functioning routines However, not every child experiences learning loss, and the impact can vary significantly depending on age, learning profile, access to enrichment opportunities, and individual needs. The Good News: Most Children Don't Forget Everything One of the biggest misconceptions about summer learning loss is that children lose an entire year's worth of progress. In reality, many children maintain the majority of their academic skills over the summer, especially when they continue engaging in activities such as: Reading for pleasure... * [Why Summer Is the Best Time to Schedule a Neuropsychological Evaluation](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/why-summer-is-the-best-time-to-schedule-a-neuropsychological-evaluation/) - Published: Jul 30, 2026> **Article Content:** As the school year comes to a close, many parents find themselves reflecting on the challenges their child faced throughout the year. Perhaps homework consistently took longer than expected, teachers raised concerns about attention or learning, or your child seemed increasingly frustrated by academic demands. While it may be tempting to put these concerns aside until September, summer is often the best time to seek answers. A neuropsychological evaluation can provide valuable insight into how your child learns, processes information, manages attention, and regulates emotions. Completing testing during the summer allows families to begin the new school year with clarity, recommendations, and a plan for success. Why Summer Is the Ideal Time for Testing During the school year, families are juggling homework, extracurricular activities, sports, therapies, and busy schedules. Finding time for a comprehensive evaluation can be difficult. Summer offers several advantages: Greater scheduling flexibility Reduced academic stress for children Time to review results before school starts Opportunity to implement recommendations before September Ability to advocate for school supports early Rather than waiting until your child struggles again in the fall, summer allows families to take a proactive approach. What Is a Neuropsychological Evaluation? A neuropsychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment that helps identify a child's cognitive, academic, behavioral, and emotional stren... * [ADHD or Summer Boredom? How to Tell the Difference](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/adhd-or-summer-boredom-how-to-tell-the-difference/) - Published: Jul 24, 2026> **Article Content:** ADHD or Summer Boredom? How to Tell the Difference Every summer, many parents notice changes in their child's behavior. Without the structure of school, children may seem restless, distracted, forgetful, or constantly searching for something to do. This often leads parents to wonder: 'Is my child simply bored, or could this be ADHD?' The answer isn't always straightforward. Many behaviors associated with boredom can look similar to ADHD, especially during the summer months when routines change and academic expectations disappear. Understanding the difference can help parents determine whether their child's behavior is developmentally typical or whether additional support may be beneficial. Why Summer Can Make ADHD More Noticeable During the school year, children follow predictable schedules. They know when to wake up, attend class, complete assignments, participate in activities, and go to bed. Summer removes much of that structure. For some children, this freedom is refreshing. For others, the lack of routine can make challenges with attention, organization, and self-regulation much more visible. Parents may notice: Difficulty staying engaged in activities Constant complaints of boredom Trouble completing simple tasks Increased impulsivity Emotional outbursts Difficulty following routines The question becomes whether these behaviors are temporary reactions to summer or signs of an underlying attention difficulty. What Does Summer Boredom Look Like? Boredom is a normal part o... * [Reclaiming Focus: What Screens Are Actually Doing to Your Kid's Brain](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/reclaiming-focus-what-screens-are-actually-doing-to-your-kids-brain/) - Published: Apr 24, 2026> **Article Content:** 'Screen time' is a useless category. Not because screens are fine and we should stop worrying. Because lumping everything together means solving the wrong problem. A child building a world in Minecraft is not having the same experience as a child scrolling Reels for an hour. Treating them the same produces bad rules, pointless arguments, and kids who tune out the conversation entirely. What actually matters: screen type, not screen time. The Four Categories Worth Knowing Interactive, goal-directed screens video games, creative apps, coding tools. These require decision-making, sustained effort, and often collaboration. The cognitive demand profile is fundamentally different from passive consumption. TV and movies linear, narrative-driven content with a beginning, middle, and end. A show watched start to finish has structure. It requires sustained attention across a longer arc. Not without concerns, but not the same as what the algorithm serves. Short-form and algorithmic video TikTok, Reels, YouTube, Shorts. Its own category, and the one that warrants the most concern. The platform behavior matters more than any individual piece of content. Social media a social environment built on algorithmically managed feedback loops, public performance, and continuous social comparison. Instagram, Snapchat, X, BeReal. The architecture is designed to keep users emotionally activated and coming back. For adolescents in particular, it functions less like a communication tool and more li... * [ABA At Home In Small NYC Spaces: Practical Strategies For Everyday Life](https://www.manhattanpsychologygroup.com/blog/aba-at-home-in-small-nyc-spaces-practical-strategies-for-everyday-life/) - Published: Apr 16, 2026> **Article Content:** Raising a child with autism in New York City often means making the most of limited space, busy schedules, and constant movement. That can feel challenging, especially when you are trying to support your childs growth at home while keeping daily life manageable. The good news is that ABA strategies do not require a big house or a perfect routine to be effective. With a few thoughtful adjustments, your apartment can become a calm, supportive place for learning. ABA therapy is most helpful when it fits into real life. For NYC families, that means building structure into the spaces and routines you already use every day. You do not need a separate playroom or a complicated system. You need clear expectations, consistency, and a plan that feels realistic for your family. What ABA Looks Like At Home ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysis, focuses on understanding behavior and teaching new skills in a step-by-step way. At home, this often means breaking daily routines into smaller parts, using positive reinforcement, and making expectations clear. For many families, ABA support also includes parent coaching so that strategies are consistent across the day. In a small apartment, ABA can happen at the kitchen table, on the couch, in the bedroom, or even in the hallway before school. What matters most is not the size of the space. It is the structure within it. When children know what to expect, they often feel more secure and are better able to participate. 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