russell.chertok@vcofny.org

Russell Chertok is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in the field of mental health and social services. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Welfare from Stony Brook University, a Master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in Contemporary Social Issues from Columbia University, and also obtained a Post Graduate Certificate in Mental Health and Aging from Adelphi University.

With over 17 years of experience working with a diverse range of populations, including the elderly, disabled adults, homeless families, individuals struggling with addiction, those with mental illness, and victims of abuse and domestic violence, Russell has a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by these communities. He has worked in various inpatient and drug detoxification centers, provided clinical and case management services, and worked as a Program Supervisor for a mental health housing program overseeing an Apartment Treatment Program for severely and persistently mentally ill adults. Additionally, Russell has extensive experience working in Emergency Family Shelters, providing direct services and overseeing program development.

In 2014, Russell founded Visiting Counselors of New York, LCSW, PLLC (VCNY) in response to the lack of available in-home services offered to individuals. His goal is to make affordable and quality services more accessible, so that more people can receive assistance, gain greater control over their lives, and reach their full potential.

lauren.rothman@vcofny.org

Lauren Rothman is an accomplished New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of behavioral health and social work. As the Director of the Neurodiversity Program at Visiting Counselors of New York (VCNY), she is responsible for the program’s development and clinical services.

Lauren holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from C.W. Post Long Island University and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Adelphi University. Additionally, she has obtained a post-graduate certificate in Developmental Disabilities from Rutgers University.

Throughout her career, Lauren has gained a wealth of experience in providing individual therapy, behavioral intervention, and crisis management to children and adults diagnosed with serious mental illness and other co-occurring disorders. She has also served as a group leader, coach, and mentor in an OPWDD community recreation program for adults on the autism spectrum.

Lauren specializes in working with adults diagnosed with an array of neurodevelopmental and genetic disorders. She focuses on teaching effective coping tools to help modify any interfering behaviors and assist clients in reaching their self-identified goals. Lauren prides herself on using an empirically based, client-centered approach, conveying warmth and empathy, and combining psychoeducation and symptom management techniques to assist clients in improving their overall emotional health and wellness.

michele.albano@vcofny.org

Michele C. Albano is a highly experienced and dedicated New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR Certified Therapist with over twenty years of experience in the field. She has a passion for helping individuals self-actualize and become the best version of themselves, working with children, adults, the elderly and families in various settings such as clinics, schools, homes and via telehealth. Michele is well-versed in utilizing various diagnostic assessments, therapeutic techniques, and clinical interventions to meet the unique needs of her clients.

Throughout her career, Michele has worked with a diverse range of individuals and families affected by domestic violence, HIV/AIDS, and has provided leadership to clinical teams during times of crisis, such as her experience leading community outreach in response to the September 11th attacks. She is EMDR trained and is an experienced field supervisor, providing social work interns with guidance and supervision in pursuing their careers.

Michele believes in an eclectic approach to therapy and often utilizes systems and solution-focused therapy to explore all parts of an individual's situation. She has helped clients with a broad range of presenting concerns such as depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, self-esteem issues, and adjustment to aging.

Michele received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Oneonta State University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Adelphi University. Her combination of education, experience and passion for helping others makes her a valuable asset to any team.