Behavioral Associates Staff

Meet the Behavioral Associates Team

Dr. Robert Reiner has been directing a diverse team at Behavioral Associates since he founded the company in 1988. Each staff member was chosen for their unique specialty and ability to add value to the Behavioral Associates team. This includes licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, as well as a team of supervised trainees from the top programs across the country.

Our Staff

Robert H. Reiner, PhD BCN BCB, Executive Director and Founder, has been practicing psychology since 1981. After receiving his undergraduate degree at the University of Pennsylvania, he went on to get his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Alabama and serve his clinical internship at Bellevue Hospital.

Dr. Reiner is well known for his work in treating anxiety and phobias through biofeedback and Virtual Reality Therapy. He has been credited for this work in articles in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, New York Daily News, USA Today, Newsweek and Time Out magazine. He has specifically had great success in treating patients for fear of flying as an innovator in Virtual Reality Therapy. Learn more about Dr. Reiner

Michael Fraser, PhD, Chief of Staff, is a New York State-Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with adults, teenagers, children, couples, and families. He received his Bachelor in Psychology from Johns Hopkins University and went on to earn a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Temple University. Over the past 23 years, Dr. Fraser has been providing psychological services in both Philadelphia and New York City in a wide range of settings. Outside of Dr. Fraser’s private practice, he has worked in hospital outpatient and inpatient psychiatric units, elementary, middle and high school settings, and college counseling centers.

Dr. Fraser has recently increased his attention on what is known in the field as “positive psychology.” While many individuals use therapy effectively to alleviate what can be considered “negative symptoms,” such as depression, phobias and anger, he believes it is possible to benefit from therapy to enhance performance in certain areas, such as relationship building, public speaking, and athletics.

Scott Lloyd, PhD BCN, Director of Therapeutic Technology, has been helping to grow the technology department at Behavioral Associates since joining us in 2009. He obtained a double major in Psychology and Spanish from the University of Cincinnati before receiving his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with health emphasis from Yeshiva University. Concurrently, he pursued a minor in Neuropsychology continuing his role as a multicultural psychologist at New York Presbyterian Hospital in the divisions of aging and dementia and the child learning center. In the area of health psychology he also received training from the accredited Tobacco Treatment program at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.

Dr. Lloyd has contributed extensively to our advancement in the use of biofeedback and neurofeedback as treatment protocols. He has helped hundreds of clients achieve their goals of independence from disabling symptoms of anxiety, addiction, depression and learning disabilities. An experienced interpreter and translator, he has helped tailor studies on patient-provider communication, panic disorder and asthma for use within a monolingual Spanish-speaking population.

Joshua Dredze, Psy.D., received his undergraduate degree from Yeshiva University before earning his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Hartford. While pursuing his Psy.D., he specialized in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-based Therapies. Dr. Dredze completed his fellowship at the Albert Ellis Institute and is an Associate Fellow in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Dr. Dredze specializes in treating anxiety and mood disorders, addictions, and trauma, as well as in assessments for a host of presenting problems.

Juliana Graham, LMSW, Director of the Dialectical Therapeutic Services Center received her Master of Science in Social Work with a concentration in clinical mental health at Columbia University after receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Elon University. Juliana specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy to provide collaborative treatment for clients experiencing mood, anxiety, and personality disorders. She harnesses an eclectic, strengths-based approach to helping clients challenge maladaptive patterns of behavior and develop effective coping strategies. Juliana works to create an empathetic therapeutic space that fosters self-esteem building and strengthens emotional processing skills. Juliana has previous experience providing school-based counseling services to adolescents as well as working in an outpatient psychiatric facility.

Brian M. Lissak, LMSW, Director of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), specializes in anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, family and interpersonal relationships, OCD, as well as a wide array encompassing many other challenges. He also works with people on Peak Performance training. His work takes place both in a clinical office setting as well as out in the real world, working with you in the way that will most effectively achieve your goals.
Brian is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, Hakomi, Motivational Interviewing, among other modalities and frameworks. He is also trained in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy and works with clients using Ketamine.
Brian likes to meet you as a human, combining a warm and gentle approach while instilling discipline and firmness into your life as a tool for taking charge of your growth and healing. He is also adept at using various forms of biofeedback and neurofeedback as an adjunct to talk therapy, as well as a keen understanding of the nervous system to individuate the application of modalities to each client.

Brian received his Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Yeshiva University. Prior to formally becoming a psychotherapist, he was an NCAA athlete and served in the military. Both of those experiences inform his work today.

Gabriela A. Hundorfean, MD, studied psychiatry at the Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest, Romania and did her residency the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx. In addition to seeing patients at Behavioral Associates, Dr. Hundorfean is the Medical Director at two substance Abuse Clinics and, works at the Rockland Psychiatric Hospital and is a Professor of Psychiatry at the Albert Einstein School of Medicine.

Dr. Hundorfean has performed research in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Seasonal Variation of Attempted Suicide and Transcultural Issues in Sex Therapy. She is a valuable member of our staff with her vast experience in the field of psychiatry as well as her fluency in Romanian, Spanish and English.

Maribel Rivera, LCSW-R, is a bilingual-bicultural psychotherapist committed to the Latino community. She graduated from La Universidad de Santo Tomás de Aquino in Bogotá, Colombia as a clinical psychologist, and later received her Master’s degree in clinical social work from New York University. Mrs. Rivera has extensive experience working at outpatient clinics throughout New York City and Westchester county since 1995. She has ample experience working with families, couples and children using the family system, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy models. In addition to her private practice, she has also served as the coordinator of the Multicultural Program at Mental Health Association of Westchester and as the co-chairperson for the Alianza Latina Mental Health Provider in Westchester county.

Susan J. Manin, LCSW, is a Psychiatric Social Worker receiving both her Master of Social Work and Bachelor of Science at the New York University School of Social Work. Susan has been seeing patients at Behavioral Associate since 2002. Following 9/11 she worked as a senior therapist for Project Liberty, which offered psychological support to local survivors of the attack.

Susan works extensively with patients suffering from a wide range of diagnoses. Anxiety and depression are areas of concentration, but her experience working with polysubstance abuse, and personality disorders has fortified her eclectic approach to treatment.

Morgan DeLeo, LMSW, Director of Myndlift Program, received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Widener University with a focus on trauma specialized treatment. Morgan specializes in treating complex trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Morgan is trained in EMDR by EMDR Institute, as well as having extensive training in CBT, ACT, DBT, Attachment-based theory, ERP, and Motivational Interviewing. Morgan combines her training in evidence based modalities therapy to ensure you are receiving the best care to treat your unique needs. Her approach is strength-based and client-focused to create a collaborative plan to assist clients with meeting their unique goals and therapeutic needs. Morgan has had great success in providing clients with the tools and confidence to cope with life’s challenges, as well as better understanding their patterns. She has experience working in the therapeutic setting with clients who experienced depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, addiction, grief/ loss, developmental disabilities, post-traumatic stress disorder, and life transitions. As well as being a therapist at Behavioral Associates, she is the Director of the Myndlift, the in-home neurofeedback program.

Ari Goldstein, LCSW, is a licensed social worker who specializes in providing counseling and psychoeducation to children and families, adolescents, and young adults experiencing obstacles related to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and related learning, social, and behavior struggles. He also works with individuals struggling with anxiety, interpersonal relationships, and other life stressors. His therapeutic approach utilizes psychodynamic conceptualization, person-centered interactions, and cognitive-behavioral treatment interventions. In addition to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Ari incorporates dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and family systems theory in his work with children, adolescents, and adults. Ari partners with those he works to create a safe space that fosters reflection, curiosity, acceptance, and growth.

Ari received his undergraduate degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and his Master’s degree in Social Work from Yeshiva University. Ari also received training at Child Mind Institute in implementing empirically supported behavior management strategies to encourage positive and pro-social behavior among children with disruptive behavior concerns and those with whom they interact.

Ari is dedicated to the field of Social Work, and he aspires to provide you, your child, and your family with support and the necessary tools to thrive.

Deborah Missud, MA, EdM, LMHC received her double masters in clinical mental health counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. Deborah specializes in anxiety, complex trauma, and self-esteem in 20/30-somethings. Deborah takes a holistic approach to therapy, meaning she considers your psychology, environment, and the mind-body connection in your treatment. She employs trauma-informed and anti-racist perspectives in her work, and she seeks to create a safe space where concerns can be explored, insight can be gleaned, and tools can be developed. Deborah is EMDR trained by the EMDR Institute, and she incorporates CBT, internal family systems (IFS), and somatic and mindfulness-based therapies into her work. Deborah also functions as a clinical supervisor for mental health counseling trainees. Prior to Behavioral Associates, Deborah worked in college counseling, community mental health, and with families affected by personality disorders.

Danielle Galis LMSW, received her Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Indiana University. Danielle utilizes evidence-based therapeutic practices such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Practice, Psychodynamic Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy and Mindfulness Practices. She values using a collaborative and nonjudgmental approach with clients. It is important to her to use these approaches to ensure that she is promoting the client’s autonomy, being able to collaborate with her to inform treatment to meet the client’s needs. Also, providing unconditional positive regard to clients to foster a safe and trusting environment to strengthen the client-therapist relationship. Danielle has prior clinical experience in settings such as community health clinic, non-profit agency, and in-home services for families with children with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She has experience with clients of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, and with a wide range of wellness and mental health concerns, such as: chronic mental illness, depression, anxiety, crisis, suicidal ideation, abuse, grief, and trauma. She prioritizes respecting the inherent dignity and worth of each individual, meaning treating every person equally no matter what walk of life they come from.

Daisy Dinh LMSW, holds a Master of Social Work from Adelphi University and a dual Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. Throughout her career, she has worked for hospitals, mental health and substance use clinics, and provided in-home therapy services to families. She has exemplary experience providing therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and families. Daisy utilizes evidenced-based modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness to assist clients with managing their symptoms and capitalizing on their strengths to foster the recovery process. Prior to Behavioral Associates, Daisy worked as a program director for a preventive services program.

Erin Weinreich, LMSW received her Masters in Social Work from Yeshiva University. For many years, Erin has had the privilege of working with the elderly population, specifically Holocaust Survivors. After receiving a certificate in Child and Family Welfare, Erin is finally making that move to working with children and young adults. At Behavioral Associates, Erin utilizes a collaborative, person centered approach with a focus on mindfulness and Cognitive behavioral therapy. Erin believes strongly in journaling and motivation interviewing.

Tanika Eason, MHC, MS

Currently a two-and-a-half-year doctoral student working towards a doctorate in Developmental Psychology at Walden University. Tanika graduated with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling after receiving a bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

Her professional repertoire encompasses over 8 years’ experience stemming from direct care to clinical services. Throughout her career Tanika has assessed a number of  children, adolescents, and parents for services that addresses and meets the needs of their family dynamics.

She has experience working with the Juvenile delinquent population, at risk youth, and their families with an extended amount of trauma.  Tanika has worked in close capacities with children and adults with experience in, home-based therapy, multi-Systemic therapy, Family functioning therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, and Integrated Treatment Models(ITM). She has serviced chronic delinquent youth and their families who have presented with substance abuse, peer difficulties, behavioral/ mental health issues, and family troubles.

Her goal is to continue providing therapeutic treatment services to positively influence, bring a sense of community, growth, and trust to others.

Clinical Psychology Postdoctoral Fellows and Externs

Harneet Sahni, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral Fellow), received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from Stony Brook University, and her Master of Science and Doctorate in School Psychology from Fordham University. She has experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns in various inpatient settings with individuals, families and groups of all ages and cultural backgrounds. Dr. Sahni is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Parent Management Therapy/Training (PMT), and Play Therapy, and will work with you to tailor the best, most effective treatment plan for your needs and goals. Dr. Sahni also utilizes art and music in her therapy, especially with children. She is additionally trained in psychological/neuropsychological assessment. Dr. Sahni believes that all individuals can see past their diagnoses if provided an inclusive, safe, compassionate environment which enables them to be resourceful, resilient, responsible and engaged world citizens. Dr. Sahni also practices through a culturally sensitive lens and is fluent in Punjabi and Hindi.

Jennifer de Rutte, M.A., is a clinical psychology doctoral student in the Health Psychology and Clinical Science program at the Graduate Center. Her training experiences thus far include working with adolescents and adults using evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solutions focused brief therapy. She has experience in working with clients with depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, adjustment issues, trauma, and behavioral addictions. Her research focuses on the intersection of mental health and technology, with specific focus on social media, and integrates her research expertise in this area into her work with clients. Her approach to therapy is integrative with a large focus on CBT principles and problem solving. She is committed to providing a supportive environment where clients can make practical changes to improve their mental health.

Hayley Simon, B.A., is a Ph.D. candidate in Fordham University’s School Psychology Doctorate Program, and received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor. Hayley has experience working with children, adolescents, and their families, in outpatient hospital settings and schools. She is trained in evidence-based interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and in performing neuropsychological evaluations. Hayley has experience providing counseling and comprehensive assessments for individuals with trauma histories, Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Specific Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She utilizes a strength-based approach, integrating psychoeducation and mindfulness to empower her clients. Hayley is collaborative, compassionate and warm, creating a supportive environment to meet each individual client’s needs.

Marcus A. Joyner, M.A., is a third-year extern at Behavioral Associates. He is currently enrolled in the clinical psychology doctoral program at Saint John’s University. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Pace University and his Master of Arts in Applied Child and Adolescent Psychology from The University of Washington. Marcus has experience with families, children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing a wide variety of emotional and behavioral difficulties including Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Additionally, he has worked with adolescents and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Specific Learning Disorders. Marcus is trained in psychoeducational evaluation, assessing and managing suicide risk (AMSR), school violence prevention and intervention, and evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Parent Management Training (PMT). Marcus’ therapeutic approach is person-centered and values-based, incorporating key aspects of culture and identity to forge a collaborative therapeutic relationship and create goals that support long-term positive change.

Rebecca Tutino, B.A., is a PhD candidate in Fordham University’s Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program. She received her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience from Connecticut College. Rebecca has experience working with individuals across the lifespan, from early childhood through older adults. She is trained in evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and has worked with a wide range of psychological concerns in a variety of settings (e.g., inpatient, outpatient, community clinic). She also has experience conducting neuropsychological assessments. Rebecca has strong clinical and research interests in perinatal psychology and the management of chronic illnesses.

Benjamin Dukas, M.A., is currently pursuing his doctorate in clinical psychology at the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, where he is receiving training in cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy. He has experience practicing psychotherapy with adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He is developing a speciality in treating anxiety disorders utilizing a cognitive-behavioral and third-wave framework supplemented by other relevant interventions. He strives to create a warm, collaborative, and productive therapeutic space with his patients. He received his bachelor’s degree in communications and psychology from the University of Pennsylvania.

Clinical Psychology Interns

Kim Boxer, M.Ed. comes to Behavioral Associates as a Mental Health Counseling intern from the Counseling Psychology Psy.D. program at Felician University. Her training includes counseling college students, neuropsychological testing, and counseling adults in private practice. She utilizes evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Mindfulness through the lens of diversity and multiculturalism. Kim empowers her clients to move through maladaptive thoughts, habits, and traumas and create attainable goals and coping skills to live their best life. Kim’s therapeutic style can be adapted to each client in a warm, supportive, non-judgmental space; however, she challenges her clients when needed to make changes in their lives. She has experience working with a variety of individuals including those with depression, anxiety, and trauma.

Dana DeFilippo, M.S., (Predoctoral Intern) received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Columbia University, her Masters of Science in Psychology from St. John’s University, and is currently pursuing her doctorate at St. John’s University. Dana is trained in evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). She is also trained in psychological and neuropsychological assessment across a wide age range with a variety of developmental, behavioral, academic, and professional needs. Her doctoral research has focused on integrating technology and psychotherapy. Dana believes that therapy should be a collaborative process and strives to provide individualized treatment catered to a client’s needs and goals.

Erica Vieira, MA is a 4th Year Doctoral Student at Saint Elizabeth University. She received her Bachelors & Masters degree from St. Elizabeth University in Counseling Psychology specializing in the ASD and ADHD population. She has experience counseling school students from elementary to high school grade levels as well as performing assessments and executive functioning training and development. Previously, she instructed children on the autism spectrum in martial arts as well as equestrian therapy. Born and raised in Queens, Erica has a background in promoting social justice to the forefront when greeting each and every one of her clients. Erica incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as gestalt and person-centered therapeutic techniques when working with clients from child to adult. She has a history in providing grief counseling and parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) with clients as well as working with clients of the LGBT+ community. Erica is truly dedicated to the counseling psychology field and is an advocate for her clients, providing the necessary told and support needed for her clients to thrive and be independent.

Clinical Social Work Interns

Shannon Marhan, M.A. is a second-year student at New York University, pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Pennsylvania State University, and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Montclair State University. She has experience working with individuals with eating disorders, OCD, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression. Shannon also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults in an outpatient, partial-hospitalization and intensive-outpatient level of care for eating disorders. She is passionate about working with individuals from an anti-oppressive and anti-racist perspective to create a collaborative, inclusive and empathetic therapeutic environment.

Ariel Balsam, is a Masters of Social Work student at Columbia University specializing in Integrated Practice and Programming. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Maryland, and has since worked in grants management and school-based services. Ariel has experience working in a variety settings, including special education schools and inclusion programs at camps, as well as with people with language-based learning disabilities and ADHD. She also works with people on executive functioning skills related to their work and wellbeing. Ariel takes a client-centered approach and strives to work collaboratively to best support individuals while incorporating modalities such as play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, systems theory, and mindfulness.

Mental Health Counseling Interns

Wayne Glass, M.Ed., MHC-I (He/They) received a Masters of Education in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Iowa State University and is currently in his third year as a Mental Health Counseling graduate student at Teachers College, Columbia University. Wayne works to integrate holistic wellness (e.g., mind, body, and spirit) to his practice, and incorporates person-centered/identity-centric modalities. Wayne has extensive experience working with college students, folks within the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals navigating various personal and professional life transitions. Wayne is passionate about specializing in anxiety, depression, and providing trauma-informed care. Wayne also hopes to incorporate fitness/exercise in working with clients.

Prior to pursuing Mental Health Counseling, Wayne worked in Higher Education as a Student Affairs administrator for nine years and has served as a Group Fitness Instructor since 2009.

Talia Tehrani, MHC-I, is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at New York University. Her extensive training encompasses a diverse range of counseling skills and a strong dedication to fostering the growth and development of her clients. With a focus on establishing and nurturing therapeutic relationships, Talia demonstrates a genuine commitment to creating an environment where her clients feel validated and motivated to face the complexities of life-head on. Driven by her passion for comprehensive and trauma-informed care, Talia is knowledgeable in a range of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused therapy. Talia’s therapeutic style is characterized by empathy and collaboration. She actively works towards fostering a comforting and supportive space where clients can explore their individualized needs. Talia endeavors to make a positive difference in the lives of her clients by empowering them to navigate life’s challenges.

Seri Shevchuk-Hill, BS (they/them), is pursuing their Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling from the City University of New York. They have experience in eclectic psychotherapy, drawing primarily from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and client-centered approaches. They work to empower their clients to build the life they want to live and meet their goals in therapy by overcoming unhelpful thoughts and changing behavioral habits. They have experience working with LGBTQ+ and other gender, sexual, and romantic minority clients. They also have experience working and with Autistic and ADHD persons.

*Photos Credit: Mad Shots Photography