Mr. Chris W. Abatelli, LPC, LMHC

Mr. Chris W. Abatelli, LPC, LMHC, has a Master’s of Educational Psychology in Adjustment Counseling as well as a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in Counseling from American International College in Springfield, Ma. He has 15 years of experience as a mental health therapist for multiple agencies and has over 20 years of Director of Youth experience. Chris has experience in working with children, teens, couples, adults and families for a wide range of issues; including marriage problems, bullying, PTSD, substance abuse, pornography issues, depression/anxiety, adoptions, conflict resolution and helping those with military service background. Chris also has experience working with individuals who have been wounded/traumatized by narcissists and helping churches heal from narcissistic leaders. Chris is committed to helping and serving others who need help.

One of Chris’s favorite quotes is from Robin Williams: “Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be Kind Always.”

Eden Althaus, LCSW

Eden Althaus, LCSW, received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University and a BA in Applied Psychology and Human Behavior from Pace University in Pleasantville, NY. She has certification in PAIRS (Practical Applications for Intimate Relationship Skills) and in Prepare Enrich for couples. In addition, Eden is trained in SafeTA.LK Suicide Prevention and in motivational interviewing. She currently works as a Social Worker at the Northport VA Medical Center. She also directs the Young Adult Ministry at Garden City’s Lutheran Church of the Resurrection.

Mrs. Althaus counsels children, youth, adults and couples at LCC sites in Dix Hills and Farmingdale.

Bettina Bove, LCSW-R

Bettina Bove, LCSW-R, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience. After completing her Master’s of Social Work degree summa cum laude at Adelphi University, Mrs. Bove continued intensive post-graduate training at the Long Island Marriage and Family Institute and the NY Institute of Psychosynthesis for advanced training in meditation, relaxation and guided imagery. As a clinical social worker for North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health Systems’ department of behavioral health and psychiatry from 1999 to 2012, she gained extensive experience working with individuals, teens, couples, families and groups. In addition, she completed two years of Christian Leadership Training.

Mrs. Bove counsels individuals, teens, couples, families and groups at LCC’s Dix Hills site.

Kirk Bingaman, PhD, MDiv, LMHC

Kirk Bingaman, PhD, MDiv, LMHC, is Professor of Mental Health Counseling & Spiritual Integration at Fordham University. An ordained Presbyterian minister, he is a licensed mental health counselor in New York, and has worked with the Lutheran Counseling Center since 2007. In 2021, he was appointed editor-in-chief of Pastoral Psychology (Springer Publishing), one of the most well-established academic journals in the field of psychology and religion/spirituality.

Kirk is the author of several books, including Freud and Faith: Living in the Tension (2003) and Treating the New Anxiety: A Cognitive-Theological Approach (2007). In his counseling work, he focuses on the neuroscientific finding that contemplative prayer and meditation lowers anxiety in the stress region of the brain, which is the basis of his 2014 book, The Power of Neuroplasticity for Pastoral and Spiritual Care. His 2018 book, Pastoral and Spiritual Care in a Digital Age: The Future Is Now, explores the present and potential future impact of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) on human development and spirituality, giving special attention to the double-edged nature of social media.

Craig Canfield, LP

Craig Canfield, LP, is a graduate of the psychoanalytic program at Blanton Peale Institute. While a student at Rutgers University, he completed a Master’s Degree in European History and has completed all course work for a PhD in European Cultural/Intellectual History. A specialty is his ability to help artists, musicians, writers or those in other artistic endeavors to dismantle blocks that may hinder the creative process. Mr. Canfield has counseled in private practices in Brooklyn, Manhattan and New Jersey since 2005.

Mr. Canfield counsels adults, couples, and teens at LCC’s Brooklyn site.

Angela Daubon, MDiv, LCSW

Angela Daubon, MDiv, LCSW, has worked as a school social worker with Hempstead Public Schools since 1999. After obtaining her Master’s in Social Work from Adelphi University, she earned a Post Master’s Certificate in School District Administration from Stony Brook University and a Master’s in Divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary in New York. Rev. Daubon is an ordained Itinerant Elder in the AME Church and has had experience facilitating workshops and leading group therapy sessions for youth.

Ms. Daubon counsels children, teens and families at LCC’s Mineola site.

Danielle Eisenberg, LCSW

Danielle Eisenberg, LCSW, received her Master’s degree in Social Work at NYU, focusing her Study Abroad in France on International Perspectives on Depression, Mental Disorder, and Psychiatric Epidemiology. She also has a BA in Psychology from Western New England University in Massachusetts. Danielle has completed postgraduate training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and holds a certificate in CBT for Depression and Anxiety Level 1 through the Beck Institute. She has received training through IAPMD, and is a listed provider for the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders, providing specialized psychotherapy to individuals with PMDD, and PME.

Currently, Danielle is enrolled in a four year postgraduate psychoanalytic program at Adelphi University, where she serves on the executive board. Danielle has experience working as a Psychiatric Social Worker in several different hospitals. She is a credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee and a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Provider.

Danielle counsels adults at our Dix Hills, Long Island site.

David Elseroad, DMin, MDiv, LMFT

David Elseroad, DMin, MDiv, LMFT, is pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hawthorne, NY. Dr. Elseroad is fluent in French and Spanish. His professional background includes work in multicultural ministries and experiences as pastor, hospital chaplain, missionary and teacher. He has a Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling from Hebrew Union College—Jewish Institute of Religion and the Post-graduate Center for Mental Health, Manhattan. His Master of Divinity degree is from Concordia Seminary and he has completed graduate studies in International Relations. He is also a New York state licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Dr. Elseroad counsels teens, individuals, couples, and families at LCC sites in Mineola and Manhattan.

Twila Evanson, LCSW-R

Twila Evanson, LCSW-R, earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Concordia College in Bronxville, NY and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Ms. Evanson is a certified Social Work field instructor, mentoring graduate students in several different colleges. In addition to her private psychotherapy practice, she currently serves as a Mental Health, Education and Senior Coordinator for New York City Council Member Robert E. Cornegy Jr. Ms. Evanson served the Atlantic District of the LCMS Community & Confidential Office for 11 years and served 4 years as Director of adult day programs at Brooklyn United Methodist Health Care. She is a board member for Lutheran Social Services of New York.

Ms. Evanson counsels children, teens and adults at the Lutheran Counseling Center Brooklyn and Queens sites.

Aleisha L Garvin, LCSW

Aleisha L Garvin, LCSW, received a Master’s of Social Work degree from Fordham University in NY. She is a Fellow of Georgetown University having received post Graduate Certifications in Multi-Systems Integration: NYC Crossover Youth Practice Model and Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Juvenile Justice Certificate Programs. Aleisha currently works in Nassau County Government. She has over 25 years of Forensic Experience working in Government in the areas of Social Welfare, Criminal Justice and Mental Health. She is a member of the Statewide Multicultural Advisory Committee at the NYS Office of Mental Health. Aleisha is a certified trainer and field supervisor.

Ms. Garvin counsels adults, teens and families at the Mineola site.

Elizabeth Geiling, PhD, LMHC, LPC

Elizabeth Geiling, PhD, LMHC, LPC, received a PhD in Mental Health Counseling from Pace University, NY and a Master’s degree and Professional Diploma in Counseling from Fordham University, NY. Betty has worked as a School Psychologist and School Counselor (N-8) and has expertise in school related problems and children with special needs. Currently, she is the Director of Counseling at College of Mount Saint Vincent and serves as an adjunct instructor at Fordham University. Betty is also Associate Professor Emerita of Psychology at Concordia College, NY.

Her work experience includes counseling for college, community and school related concerns for individuals or groups. Her counseling practice includes early childhood, adolescents, early, middle and late adulthood, and couples.

Dr. Geiling is a counselor at LCC sites in Bronxville and at Advent in Manhattan.

Ronald Lehenbauer, DMin, MDiv, LMFT

Ronald Lehenbauer, DMin, MDiv, LMFT, has served as pastor of congregations in Jenison, Michigan; Chicago, Illinois; and Flushing, New York. He received his Doctor of Ministry degree from NY Theological Seminary and holds Master of Divinity and Master of Sacred Theology degrees from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo. Dr. Lehenbauer completed certification in pastoral counseling at the Post-graduate Center for Mental Health in New York, NY. He is a certified Imago Relationship Therapist and also is trained in Discernment Counseling, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and other therapy modes for anxiety and depression.

Dr. Lehenbauer is a NY state licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, providing counseling for adults and couples at the LCC sites in Mineola and Queens.

Francesca Navarro, MHC-LP

Francesca Navarro, MHC-LP, received her bachelor’s in Psychology from Concordia College, NY and her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling at Alfred University. Francesca practices Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and incorporates a variety of techniques from other theoretical orientations including person centered approach, motivational interviewing, and dialectical behavioral therapy. Her practice includes a diverse population from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Francesca has experience helping individuals cope with adjustment disorder, anxiety, depression, PTSD and relationship difficulties.

Francesca counsels adults, teenagers and children at the LCC location in Bronxville.

Forrest T. Parkinson, LMSW, LP

Forrest T. Parkinson, LMSW, LP, is pastor of The Community Church of Syosset, NY. He is a Licensed Psychoanalyst, having obtained a certificate in Psychoanalysis from Blanton-Peale Institute in 2005. Pastor Parkinson also has an MSW from State University of NY, Stony Brook. He received his MDiv degree from Immaculate Conception Seminary in Huntington, NY and has full ministerial standing with the United Church of Christ. He also has an MS in Special Education & Emotional Disabilities from LIU at CW Post in Brookville, NY. Pastor Parkinson has two years postgraduate training in Analytical Psychology at the CG Jung Institute and is also a certified Spiritual Director in the Ignatian tradition.

Rev. Parkinson counsels at LCC’s Mineola, Manhattan and Farmingdale sites.

Jennifer Siemann, LCSW

Jennifer Siemann, LCSW received her Master’s degree from Fordham University and a BA in psychology from SUNY Old Westbury. She utilizes a trauma informed approach, along with infusing Positive Psychology. She currently works with the IDD/MH population providing crisis prevention and intervention. She supports a wide range of individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, daily stressors, and adjustment.

Ms. Siemann counsels children, youth, adults and couples at LCC sites in Mineola.

Janet Siry, LCSW

Janet Siry, LCSW, received her Master’s in Social Work degree at Fordham University and a BS in Elementary Education from Valparaiso University. She has worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for years and prior to this, she was a preschool teacher. As a school based social worker for four years, Mrs. Siry has counseled children, adolescents, families and adults and has facilitated group therapy sessions. She has a private practice in Setauket, NY. Mrs. Siry is a member of The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), and was awarded Woman of the Year in Religion in 2005.

Mrs. Siry counsels children, teens, adults, couples and families at the LCC site in Patchogue.

Thomas S. Taylor, PhD, LCSW-R, STM

Thomas S. Taylor, PhD, LCSW-R, STM, is a Certified Psychoanalyst and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with an ‘R’ status. He is a member of the National Psychological Association for Psychoanalysis (NPAP) and is a Clinical Supervisor for LCC. An ordained pastor of the ELCA, Dr. Taylor has a PhD from the Silver School of Social Work at NYU and a Master’s of Social Work degree from Yeshiva University in NY. His Master’s of Sacred Theology degree is from the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pa., and he has a Master of Divinity concentrating in Psychiatry and Religion from Union Theological Seminary in NY. Dr. Taylor received his Certification in Pastoral Counseling from the Post-graduate Center for Mental Health in NY and has had extensive experience working with individuals and couples and as a seminar presenter. He is a Prepare/Enrich certified trainer. In addition, he has taught as an adjunct professor at Concordia College, Bronxville.

Dr. Taylor counsels teens, adults and couples as Counselor-in-Residence at our site at Advent Lutheran Church in New York, NY and at our Bronxville site.

Cynthia Terrell, LCSW

Cynthia Terrell, LCSW, received a Master’s in Social Work degree from Fordham University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She works full-time as a school social worker in the Hempstead School District. Mrs. Terrell has had extensive experience in working with children, adoptions, parent and caregiver guidance, foster care, women, and families as well as working as a social work supervisor in several agencies and hospitals.

Ms. Terrell counsels children, teens and adults at LCC’s Mineola site.

Mary Beth Werdel, PhD, LMHC

Mary Beth Werdel, PhD, LMHC, received her doctorate in Pastoral Counseling from Loyola University, Maryland and completed a doctoral internship at the Wendt Center for Loss and Healing in Washington, D.C. She is also an Associate Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling at Fordham University and currently teaches both clinical and research classes for graduate level Pastoral Care and Counseling students. Dr. Werdel’s research focuses on the intersection of spirituality and well-being during times of loss, stress, and trauma. Her most recent research studies focused on spiritual coping resources for parents of children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Werdel has written two books, A Primer of Posttraumatic Growth (2012) and As Faith Matures: Beyond the Sunday God (2012).

Her clinical experience, including her work as a bi-lingual Spanish speaking family therapist, focuses on working predominately with individuals, children and families who have experienced significant loss, stress or trauma. She has extensive training in Relationship Enhancement Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy and Filial Therapy.

Dr. Werdel provides counseling at the LCC site in Bronxville.

Danita O. Wright, LCSW-R

Danita O. Wright, LCSW-R, works with children and families as a mental health therapist for the Community Mental Health Center at South Nassau Community Hospital. She also has experience working in a school setting and in counseling those with a history of chemical dependence, adjustment disorders and marriage and family counseling. She has an MSW from Adelphi University and is a certified field supervisor. Danita is adept at group and individual therapy.

Mrs. Wright is a therapist at LCC’s Mineola site.