This document provides an agenda and information for the 9th Annual Clinical Mental Health Counseling Symposium on Evidence-Based Practices being held on October 22, 2016. The symposium will include welcoming remarks, an update on NYS mental health counseling licensure, and four concurrent clinical workshop sessions on various evidence-based practices. Workshop topics include sexual addiction, mental health and the juvenile justice system, mindfulness applications in psychotherapy, LGBTQ affirmative counseling, giving bad news, treating eating disorders from CBT and DBT perspectives, the influence of unresolved parental conflicts on child behavior, DSM-5 sexual disorders and treatments, positive thinking, Gestalt therapy and forgiveness, DBT integrated care, and couples counseling.

1. 9TH
ANNUAL
CLINICAL MENTAL
HEALTH COUNSELING
SYMPOSIUM
DEPARTMENTOF COUNSELING
AND DEVELOPMENT
THE LONG ISLAND CHAPTER
OFTHE NEWYORKMENTAL
HEALTH COUNSELORS
ASSOCIATION
EVIDENCE-BASED
PRACTICES
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2016

2. SYMPOSIUM AGENDA
8:00 A.M. – 8:45 A.M.
REGISTRATION CHECK-IN AND BREAKFAST
Hillwood Commons Lobby and Fishbowl
8:45 – 9:15 A.M.
WELCOMING REMARKS
Lecture Hall
• Dr.LouisaVida-Kramer,Acting Dean of the College of Education,Information &Technology,LIU Post
• Dr.JamesJ.Colangelo,Chair,Department of Counseling & Development,LIU Post
• Jean Fiust,M.S.,LMHC,President – Long Island Chapter of NYMHCA
9:15 – 9:45 A.M.
NYS MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING LICENSURE AND STATE OF THE PROFESSION UPDATE
Lecture Hall
• Judith Ritterman, M.S., LMHC, LMFT, Executive Director, New York State Mental Health
Counselors Association
10:00 - 11:30 A.M.
A) SEXUAL ADDICTION: A BASIC UNDERSTANDING
Hillwood Commons,The End Zone
Presenter: Joshua Harel, M.S., LMHC, CASAC-T, Private Practice.
Former Substance Abuse Counselor, Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
B) MENTAL HEALTH AND THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM
Humanities Hall, Room 121
Presenter: Lisa Mineo, M.A., LMFT, CASAC-T, Probation Program Supervisor.
Family and Children’s Association
C) MINDFULNESS: ITS ESSENCE AND APPLICATION TO PSYCHOTHERAPY
Hillwood Commons, Gold Coast Cinema
Presenter:LisaLanger,Ph.D.,LicensedClinicalPsychologist,ClinicalAssistantProfessor/DepartmentofPsychiatry
Northwell Health/Hofstra School of Medicine
D) LGBTQ AFFIRMATIVE COUNSELING: A HOLISTIC APPROACH
Humanities Hall, Room 119
Presenter: Jonathan Procter, Ph.D., LPC, CRC, NCC,ACS,Assistant Professor of Education
LIU Post
Dear Symposium Participant,
We welcome you to the Ninth Annual Clinical Mental Health Counseling Symposium: Evidence-Based
Practices, which is co-sponsored by the Department of Counseling and Development, LIU Post, and the
Long Island chapter of the New York Mental Health Counselors Association (NYMHCA).
The annual clinical mental health counseling symposium has had significant success over the past
nine years, with hundreds of mental health counselors, graduate student trainees, and other mental
health professionals from Long Island and the New York metropolitan area actively participating in the
symposium series.The focus of the clinical workshops has been, and continues to be, the provision of
opportunities for mental health practitioners to enhance and update their clinical skills over a wide
array of mental health concerns.The feedback received from those in attendance at previous
symposiums indicates that we have consistently achieved our goal of providing quality workshops that
meet the needs of the practicing mental health professional. However, the mental health counseling
symposium also provides another very important benefit: the opportunity for participants to interact
and network with colleagues and other mental health professionals in the field.
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling Symposium has realized its founding vision, having become
an annual event focusing on areas of professional and clinical interest to Licensed Mental Health
Counselors (LMHCs), individuals seeking licensure as Mental Health Counselors, and other interested
mental health professionals.The symposium committee is dedicated to making certain that a
continuing focus is placed on the profession of mental health counseling in New York State, including
providing a forum for mental health counselors to gather together in unity to further enhance the
growth of the profession.
Clinical workshops allow mental health practitioners to foster and enhance their therapeutic skills
across a wide range of clinical issues and therapeutic practices. Our opening session be led by the
Executive Director of NYMHCA, who will present an update on the status of the mental health
counseling profession in New York State. Participants will then be able to participate in three workshops
throughout the day.We are also pleased that symposium attendees will earn continuing education
credits (CEUs) from both NYMHCA and NBCC for their participation in the Symposium.Thank you for
your continuing support of the mental health counseling symposium.
DR. JAMES COLANGELO
Symposium Chairperson
SYMPOSIUM COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Dr. Kristin Schaefer-Schiumo, Professor Susan Shenker, Dr. Kathy Keefe-Cooperman,
Dr. Jonathan Procter, Adjunct Professor Judith Ritterman, Jean Fiust, LMHC
CLINICAL WORKSHOPS – SESSION I
NinthAnnualClinicalMentalHealthCounselingSymposium
Evidence-BasedPractices

3. 11:45 A.M. – 1:15 P.M.
E) USING THE PEWTER (PREPARE, EVALUATE, WARNING, TELLING, EMOTIONAL RESPONSE,
REGROUPING) MODEL: A STRUCTURED PROTOCOL FOR GIVING BAD NEWS
Humanities Hall, Room 121
Presenters:
• Kathleen Keefe-Cooperman, Psy.D.,Assistant Professor, LIU Post
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
• Devyn Savitsky, B.A., Clinical Mental Health Counselor Trainee
• Walter Koshel, M.S., Crisis Counselor, Crisis Text Line
• Varsha Bhat, B.A., Clinical Mental Health Counselor Trainee
F) TREATING EATING DISORDERS FROM CBT AND DBT PERSPECTIVES:
Humanities Hall, Room 119
Presenters:
• Rebecca B. Skolnick, Ph.D., Director of Eating Disorders Program, CBT/DBTAssociates
Adjunct Assistant Professor, CCNY
Adjunct Assistant Clinical Professor, Icahn School of Medicine
• Jessica A. Renz, Psy.D., Licensed Psychologist
Psychotherapist at Cognitive Behavior Consultants (CBC)
G) SPARE THE CHILD, TREAT THE PARENT: THE INFLUENCE OF UNRESOLVED PARENTAL
CONFLICTS ON MALADAPTIVE CHILDHOOD BEHAVIOR
Hillwood Commons, Gold Coast Cinema
Presenter: Joanna Hulton, Ph.D., LMHC, Private Practice, Huntington, NY
Founder of the Parent and Educator Forum
H) DSM 5 SEXUAL DISORDERS AND EVIDENCE BASED TREATMENT
Hillwood Commons,The End Zone
Presenters:
• Rachel Hoffman, LMSW, Ph.D. Candidate in Human Sexuality,Widener University
Psychotherapist, Long Island Institute of Sex Therapy (LIIST)
Co- Founder, Sexpertise
• RosaraTorrisi,LCSW,CST,MSSW,M.Ed.,FounderandDirector,LongIslandInstituteof SexTherapy(LIIST)
PhD Candidate in Clinical Human Sexuality Education,Widener University
2:30 – 4:00 P.M.
I) POSITIVE THINKING AS ESSENTIAL FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Hillwood Commons,The End Zone
Presenter: Daniel Araoz, Ed.D.,ABPP,ABPH, Professor Emeritus, LIU Post
Private Practice
J) THE UNFINISHED GESTALTS OF GESTALTTHERAPY AND THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS
IN THE NOW
Hillwood Commons, Gold Coast Cinema
Presenter: Regina Cofrin, Ph.D., LMHC, CASAC-T, Psychotherapist
Gestalt Center of Long Island
K) DIALETICAL BEHAVIOR THERAPY – INTEGRATED CARE (DBT-IC): THE CASE FOR A
COMPREHENSIVE OUT-PATIENT TREATMENT PROTOCOL
Humanities Hall, Room 119
Presenter: Jamie D. Schumake, M.S., LMHC, Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist
New York Presbyterian Hospital,White Plains, NY, DBT Center of Southern Connecticut
L) COUPLES COUNSELING: AN INTRODUCTION
Humanities Hall, Room 121
Presenter: Sean Woll, M.S., LMHC
CLINICAL WORKSHOPS – SESSION II CLINICAL WORKSHOPS – SESSION III
1:15PM - 2:15PM
LUNCH IN THE EAST/WEST CAFETERIA
JAMES COLANGELO, PSY.D., LMHC,
LMFT, CCMHC, NCC, ACS
Associate Professor of Education & Chair,
Department of Counseling and Development,
LIU Post
Symposium Chairperson
KRISTIN SCHAEFER-SCHIUMO, PH.D.,
NYS LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST
Professor of Education, Department of
Counseling and Development, LIU Post
SUSAN SHENKER, M.A.
Assistant Professor of Education, Department
of Counseling and Development, LIU Post
KATHY KEEFE-COOPERMAN, PSY.D., NYS
LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST
Assistant Professor of Education, Department
of Counseling and Development, LIU Post
JONATHAN PROCTER, PH.D., LPC, CRC,
NCC, ACS
Assistant Professor, Department of
Counseling and Development, LIU Post
JUDITH RITTERMAN, M.S., LMHC, LMFT
Executive Director, NYMHCA
JEAN FIUST, M.S., LMHC
President, Long Island Chapter of NYMHCA
MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING SYMPOSIUM COMMITTEE

4. SESSION I
A) SEXUAL ADDICTION: A BASIC UNDERSTANDING
This workshop will provide participants with a basic understanding of what constitutes a sexual
addiction and the many forms it might take.There will be an emphasis placed on cybersexual addiction,
as there has been significant increase in this type of addiction being encountered in clinical practice.
The discussion will include the work of Dr. Patrick Carnes, who has been instrumental in introducing
the reality of individuals developing an addiction to sex and assisting in having sexual addiction gain
acceptance. Even so, the concept of sexual addiction is still a controversial topic within the field of sex
therapy. Much like drugs or alcohol, sex addiction fits the four-component model of what comprises an
addiction:
• Compulsivity – the loss of control over a behavior.
• Continuation despite negative consequences.
• Preoccupation or obsession.
• Tolerance – more of the same behavior or escalation of progressive behaviors is required to gain
the same “high.”
Simply stated, sexual addiction is the lack of control of some sexual behavior or relationship. In
addition, similarities between behavioral addictions and substance use disorders will be discussed.
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS & PRESENTERS’ BIOGRAPHIES
CLINICAL WORKSHOPS
PRESENTATIONS
NYS MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING LICENSURE AND PROFESSION UPDATE
This presentation will provide a licensure update detailing any legislative action that has occurred in the
past year pertaining to Licensed Mental Health Counselors.Additionally, any information pertinent to
the mental health counseling profession in New York State as well as important information related to
the licensure of mental health counselors will be presented and discussed.
JUDITH RITTERMAN, M.S., NCC, CFT,ACS, LMHC, LMFT
Judith Ritterman has been the executive director of the NewYork Mental Health CounselorsAssociation
(NYMHCA) since 2005. Prior to that, she served as the president of NYMHCA for 12 years and was
instrumental in attaining passage of the mental health counselors’ licensure bill in 2005. Ms. Ritterman
maintains a private practice in which she treats individuals, couples, and families. She is licensed as a
mental health counselor and as a marriage and family therapist in New York State. She is also a Certified
Family Therapist and a National Certified Counselor. In addition, Ms. Ritterman is an Approved Clinical
Supervisor with the Center for Credentialing Education and provides clinical supervision to mental
health professionals.
JOSHUA HAREL, M.S., LMHC, CASAC-T
Mr.Joshua Harel was awarded his master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from LIU Post.
Mr. Harel is a NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor and CASAC-T. He has served as a full-time clinician
and Substance Abuse Counselor at the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
(LICADD) in Mineola, NY. He had been affiliated with LICADD for approximately five years. Mr. Harel’s
responsibilities included, but were not limited to: Drug and Alcohol Assessments, SBIRT (Screening,
Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment), Crisis Intervention, and Individual and Group Counseling
around matters related to substance use for adults and adolescents. Mr. Harel has worked with family
members affected by substance use disorders and assisted with the coordination and facilitation of
planned family interventions. In addition, he coordinated the Military Families in Training (MFIT)
program at LICADD, a psychoeducational series aimed at addressing the unmet mental health needs of
returning veterans and their families, free of charge. Mr. Harel also delivered professional training on
a host of topics via LICADD’s Community Education and Prevention Program throughout Nassau and
Suffolk. Mr. Harel presently is a full-time clinician with a practice in the Long Island area, and he plans
to seek certification as a sex therapist with the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and
Therapists (AASECT).
B) MENTAL HEALTH AND THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM
The focus of this workshop is to provide participants with an overview and understanding of the
Juvenile Justice system in the State of New York. Presently, New York and North Carolina are the only
two jurisdictions in the United States that charge 16- and 17-year-olds as adults in the criminal justice
system. It is important that mental health practitioners have a realistic perception of how youths who
are arrested for criminal activity are processed through the system.The Family and Children’sAssociation
works with youths 15 years old or younger who have been arrested in Nassau County. Due to their age,
these youths are assessed by the Nassau County Probation Department to determine if their cases can
be adjusted or if they should be sent forward to Family Court. During the presentation, this assessment
process will be explained in great detail, providing practitioners with a clear sense of how youths are
handled in the criminal justice system, which would be of great value when working with youths and
their families who are involved with the juvenile justice system.Additionally, the services that the
Family and Children’s Association offers to young people and their families will be discussed.
LISA A. MINEO, M.A., LMFT, CASAC-T
Ms. Lisa Mineo is a New York State Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).After graduating
Magna Cum Laude from Stony Brook University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor
in women’s studies, Ms. Mineo attended the master’s degree program at Hofstra University,
graduating with distinction in 2010. During her time in the Marriage and Family Therapy program,
Ms. Mineo gained clinical skills working with couples and families. She began working for the Family
and Children’s Association in 2010 as a residential counselor for Walkabout, an independent living
program for adolescents. In 2011, Ms. Mineo became case manager for Nassau Haven, the only
runaway and homeless youth program in Nassau County. She was the family case manager when the
detention diversion program was initiated in 2011 through the Nassau County Probation Department.
Ms. Mineo is currently the supervisor of the detention diversion program. In addition to her supervisory
role, Ms. Mineo continues family mediation with her own active caseload, which is referred through the
Nassau County Probation Department. In 2014, Ms. Mineo attended Adelphi University’s postgraduate

5. certificate program in addictions and she is currently a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse
Counselor Trainee (CASAC-T).Additionally, Ms. Mineo has been Narcan trained and is certified in Moral
Reconation Therapy (MRT) and CPR.
C) MINDFULNESS: ITS ESSENCE AND APPLICATION TO PSYCHOTHERAPY
Mindfulness has become a buzzword in the 21st century. In recent years, there has been increasing
scientific evidence that supports the use of mindfulness (the cultivation of intentional, present-focused
awareness) within the field of contemporary psychotherapy. Mindfulness, as practiced both formally
and informally, is a powerful way of promoting health, reducing stress and living more fully in the
present moment.Today, mindfulness is a key component in a wide variety of empirically validated
treatment programs including: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness-Based
Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) among others.
Mindfulness principles can offer a new understanding of how psychological problems are created and
alleviated.The principles and practices can offer clinicians a new and innovative tool of mindful clinical
interventions that may be used in both individual and group treatment. Mindfulness meditation has
been found to enhance the relationship to oneself, to one another and to increase enjoyment of
everyday activities. Components of the presentation will include:
• Introduction to Mindfulness
• Reviews, practices, principles, research and neuroscience
• Applications to Psychotherapy
• Formal Mindfulness practices: Guided Sitting Meditation and Body Scan
• Demonstrations of Mindful Inquiry/Group Discussion
• Questions and Answers
LISA LANGER, PH.D
Dr. Langer is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice and a Clinical Assistant Professor in the
Department of Psychiatry at the Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine. She is also the founder and
partner in charge of all programming and evelopment at PRACTICE, a wellness center in Roslyn, New
York. Dr. Langer received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the Derner Institute/Adelphi University.
She completed her Clinical Internship and Fellowship training at North Shore University Hospital in
Manhasset. Dr. Langer is a 200-hour trained yoga instructor and holds a 3-year certificate in Gestalt
psychotherapy. Dr. Langer has a 30+ year history of training in mindful meditation and body practices
and is currently enrolled in the Professional Mindfulness Based Training Institute at the University of
California-San Diego School of Medicine Center for Mindfulness.
D) LGBTQ AFFIRMATIVE COUNSELING: A HOLISTIC APPROACH
LGBTQ adolescents face particular and quite often difficult challenges in developing and transitioning into
healthy adulthood. Even within the field of mental health counseling, variations of sexual orientation,
gender identity, and gender expression can be met with hostility, aversion, or incompetency from
counselors. Because of this, members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ)
communities face marginalization, oppression, as well as discrimination, and are historically
underserved within clinical settings.Additionally, clinical mental health counselors may not possess the
appropriate counseling competencies, which are critical to the formation of the therapeutic relationship
and best treatment outcomes. Participants at this workshop will examine a holistic approach to LGBTQ
affirmative counseling and how they can incorporate this approach into their current practices.
JONATHAN PROCTER, PH.D., LPC, CRC, NCC,ACS
Dr. Procter was awarded his doctorate in counselor education and supervision from Ohio University and
is an Assistant Professor of Education at LIU Post. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both
Texas and Ohio, as well as a Credentialed Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC). Dr. Procter is also a Mental
Health Facilitator and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with the National Board of Certified
Counselors (NBCC). He is an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) and most recently was the Director of
the Counseling Clinic at Lamar University. Prior to LIU Post, Dr. Procter taught in mental health
counseling programs at Marist College and Lamar University. He has given presentations at the state,
national and international levels on a variety of mental health topics including mindfulness, cultural
sensitivity, diversity, ethics, and LGBTQ issues.
E) USING THE PEWTER (PREPARE, EVALUATE, WARNING,TELLING, EMOTIONAL RESPONSE,
REGROUPING) MODEL: A STRUCTURED PROTOCOL FOR GIVING BAD NEWS
Breaking bad news is a stressful experience for counselors and clients.The PEWTER (Prepare, Evaluate,
Warning,Telling, Emotional Response, Regrouping) model can be used as a guide to facilitate the
process of a difficult conversation and promote client growth in mental health counseling settings. In
this structured creative model, communication skills are grouped in a systemic and progressive manner
that can be individualized to meet client and situational needs. PEWTER addresses the multiple factors
and layers that affect the counseling situation when giving life-changing news. Participants will gain
knowledge of the PEWTER model, increase efficacy in successfully navigating difficult discussions and l
earn about the findings of a recent study that addresses the applicability to various mental health
settings.A case example is provided that outlines and demonstrates each phase of the PEWTER model.
KATHLEEN KEEFE-COOPERMAN, PSY.D.
Dr. Keefe-Cooperman is a New York State Licensed Psychologist who is currently an assistant professor
in the Department of Counseling and Development. She first taught as an adjunct for LIU at the West
Point site before becoming Director of Counseling programs at the Rockland Graduate Campus for five
years, moving to the LIU Post campus in 2009. Dr. Keefe-Cooperman is active in the fields of counseling
and psychology.She is a member of the Diversity Subcommittee for theTeaching of Psychology Division
of the American Psychological Association (APA) and also specializes in the psychological evaluations
of children and adolescents. Dr. Keefe-Cooperman has conducted research and published in the areas
of perinatal loss, breaking bad news, preschool adaptive functioning, and the history of state mental
health hospitals during the Great Depression.A theme throughout her research has been “when bad
things happen to good people.” This is seen in her research on how to have difficult conversations,
dealing with loss, and preschoolers experiencing difficulties.
DEVYN SAVITSKY, B.A.
Ms. Devyn Savitsky is a clinical mental health counseling student trainee at LIU Post. She earned her

6. Bachelor’s degree in psychology and history from Binghamton University, and plans to one day
complete her doctorate in counseling psychology. Ms. Savitsky is the co-president of the Lambda
Iota Beta chapter of Chi Sigma Iota, a graduate research assistant, and a counseling intern at Sunrise
Counseling Center. She is a student affiliate of the APA’s Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent
Psychology division, a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and has a background in
music, journalism, and several facets of law, including international humanitarian law. Ms. Savitsky has
worked with a diverse population, and plans to apply the PEWTER model of delivering bad news while
specializing in eating disorders and counseling the LGBTQ community.
WALTER KOSHEL, M.S.
Mr.Walter Koshel graduated with a 4.0 GPA and honors recognition from LIU Post with a Master’s
degree in School Counseling in May of 2016. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from
Goucher College, and plans to become a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) once established in the field.
While studying abroad in Denmark with a concentration in Positive Psychology, he interned at the
Kirkens Korshær Herberg, providing counseling support to homeless individuals. Mr. Koshel plans
to apply the PEWTER model of delivering bad news while specializing in using holistic techniques in
working with students diagnosed with attention deficit disorders.As a researcher, he hopes to study
the effects of internet addiction on developing adolescent brains. In his clinical work, he facilitates an
environment where applying gratitude and incorporating healthy social-emotional development can
be used to foster healthy changes.
VARSHA G. BHAT, B.S.
Ms.Varsha G. Bhat has been a Master’s degree student trainee in clinical mental health counseling
since September 2015 at LIU Post. She has a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of
Mumbai, India. She is a certified hypnotherapist and has volunteered as a teacher and an assistant
counselor at various non-governmental organizations in Mumbai. Ms. Bhat also has a certificate in
graphic designing, and she has used her graphic design skills to develop interactive videos to teach
English and mathematics to children who are deaf and mute.
F) TREATING EATING DISORDERS FROM CBT AND DBT PERSPECTIVES.
Eating disorders are a mental health issue that clinicians will most likely encounter and provide
treatment for at some point in their professional careers.This interactive workshop will provide an
overview of the treatment of eating disorders from both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and
dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) perspectives. Participants will learn how to conceptualize disordered
eating behaviors based on CBT and emotion dysregulation models. CBT interventions for decreasing
strict dieting, binge eating, purging, body checking, and body avoidance will be discussed, along with
ways to improve body image and expand clients’ self-worth beyond body image and weight.The DBT
approach to decreasing emotional binge eating through behavioral analysis, mindfulness, distress
tolerance, and emotion regulation skills will be reviewed.
REBECCA B. SKOLNICK, PH.D.
Dr. Skolnick serves as a staff psychologist and Director of the Eating Disorders Program at CBT/DBT
Associates, as well as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at City College of New York and an Adjunct Assistant
Clinical Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Skolnick provides
individual and group therapy to adolescents and adults. She earned her M.A. and Ph.D. in clinical
psychology from Hofstra University.Prior to attending Hofstra,Dr.Skolnick obtained an M.A.in psychology
in education at Columbia University, and graduated Cum Laude from Tufts University with a B.S. in
psychology. Dr. Skolnick completed a pre-doctoral clinical internship at North Shore-Long Island Jewish
Hospital’s Zucker Hillside Hospital, where she received training in evidence-based interventions for
adolescents and adults across levels of care.
Dr. Skolnick has extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy.
She served as an extern and post-doctoral fellow at CBT/DBTAssociates, working as an individual CBT
and DBT therapist for adolescents and adults, as well as a DBT Skills Group leader. Dr. Skolnick has also
worked at North Shore-Long Island Jewish Hospital’s Eating Disorders Center treating adolescents and
young adults with eating disorders using a combination of individual and group CBT, DBT, and family
therapy.Additionally, she worked at the Phobia and Trauma Clinic at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman
Center, using behavior therapy to treat adults with a range of anxiety disorders. Dr. Skolnick also served
as a clinical intern at the Center for Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy treating mainly adults with
OCD and comorbid conditions.
Dr. Skolnick has several research publications and presentations related to anxiety disorders and eating
disorders. Her dissertation research investigated the effects of mindfulness-based instruction on anxiety
and fear tolerance during an exposure procedure for claustrophobia. She is an active member of the
Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, New York State Psychological Association,Academy
for Eating Disorders, and the New York Chapter of the International Association of Eating Disorders
Professionals Foundation.
JESSICA A. RENZ, PSY.D.
Dr. Renz is a full-time licensed psychologist at Cognitive Behavioral Consultants (CBC) who treats
adolescents, adults, and families. She provides individual, family, and group CBT and DBT treatment
at CBC. Dr. Renz earned her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from LIU Post with a concentration
in serious and persistent mental illness. She completed an M.A. in Counseling for Mental Health and
Wellness at New York University and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Florida with an
undergraduate degree in psychology.
Dr. Renz has provided CBT and DBT treatment in outpatient, partial hospital, and inpatient settings.
She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System
(NS-LIJ) where she provided evidence-based behavioral health services to college students experiencing
symptoms of anxiety, depression, self-harm and borderline personality disorder, as well as young adults
experiencing symptoms of first episode psychosis. Dr. Renz has also worked at NS-LIJ’s Eating Disorders
Program, providing comprehensive individual, group, and family therapy to adolescents and young
adults experiencing symptoms of eating disorders.
In addition to clinical work, Dr. Renz has also participated in research and presentations on eating
disorders. Her dissertation examined psychological and demographic predictors of excessive exercise
among adolescents with a variety of eating disorder diagnoses.Additionally, Dr. Renz has been formally
trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Exposure and
Response Prevention for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. She is also an active member of the
Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.

7. G)THE INFLUENCE OF UNRESOLVED PARENTALCONFLICTS ON MALADAPTIVE CHILDHOOD BEHAVIOR
This workshop will demonstrate how a mental health clinician uses basic principles of Self-Psychology to
treat adults and their children.This approach enables a parent to understand the child from a
self-psychological perspective; in turn, the parent-child interaction gives the clinician insight into the
parent’s own childhood. Often the child’s initial presenting problem highlights the parent’s own
unmet needs.The workshop will explore the essential self-object experiences needed for healthy
development – including empathy, recognition, idealization, and twinship. Case vignettes will illustrate
how a parent’s unmet needs can distort the child’s experience of their own needs. Participants will learn
how this clinical approach encourages treatment-outcomes that benefit both parent and child.The
workshop will explore: 1) the importance of childhood narcissism; 2) the concept of self and how it
relates to innate talent and ability; 3) the need for expansiveness in self-development; 4) how the
oedipal phase can be joyful and growth enhancing; 5) the natural role of rupture and repair in
parenting; and 6) using play therapy as a substitute for dream analysis.
JOANNA HULTON, PH.D., LMHC
Dr.Joanna Hulton is a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychoanalyst with over
30 years of experience in the fields of mental health and education. She has worked as a teacher and
therapist in both private and public school settings, and she has developed an innovative curriculum
to meet the needs of regular and special education programs. Dr. Hulton has also served as an adjunct
professor at LIU Post, developing a trilogy of institutes that define a sub-specialty in mental health
counseling.She currently maintains a private practice on Long Island,and her work focuses on enhancing
the role of family, school, and community in improving children’s self-esteem, feelings of personal
efficacy, and ability to learn. Her book, Parent Fatigue Syndrome, is growing in popularity with parents,
along therapists who want to learn more about her innovative, clinically relevant, and evidence-based
treatment approach.
H) DSM 5 SEXUALDISORDERSAND EVIDENCE BASEDTREATMENT
This workshop will examine the treatment of the four primary sexuality disorders.The categories are
male/female, and arousal/desire. Many clients presenting for treatment present with some sort of pain
during intercourse that prohibits pleasure and which further causes anxiety and a lack of desire/arousal.
The treatment is mainly a collaborative effort between cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and
coordination of care with a pelvic physical therapist.A PowerPoint presentation will provide
participants with a clear description and understanding of the various disorders examined.Additionally,
handouts will be provided that participants can utilized as resources for their own practices.
There has been an enormous around of research, especially in the last couple of years, about pelvic
floor physical therapy in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions.The recent studies will be covered and
the presenters will discuss how CBT and PT can be used in conjunction to provide an evidence based
treatment plan to address the sexuality disorders covered in the workshop. Case studies will also be
utilized to highlight the treatment strategies discussed.
RACHEL HOFFMAN, LMSW
Ms. Rachel Hoffman is a licensed social worker who currently works as a sex therapist at the Long
Island Institute of Sex Therapy (LIIST), and as a social worker at NYU hospital. She is also a cofounder of
sexpertise.org, a company dedicated to educating about human sexuality through social media and
workshops, and has considerable experience working with teens and young adults. Currently, Ms.
Hoffman is pursuing her PhD in Human Sexuality at Widener University.With an eclectic therapy style,
Ms. Hoffman has treated people with symptoms of depression and anxiety, especially those going
through life-transitions such as separations, divorce, or the death of a loved one. She specializes in the
impact of societal changes especially technology on dating and the intimacy.
ROSARATORRISI, LCSW, CST, MSSW, MED
Ms. Rosara Torrisi is a licensed clinical social worker who received her master’s degree in social work
(MSSW) from Columbia University and also has a master’s degree (M.Ed.) in human sexuality education
from Widener University. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical Human Sexuality Education from
Widener. Ms.Torrisi is the founder, president, and director of the Long Island Institute of Sex Therapy
(LIIST). She is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and was voted “Best Sex Therapist on Long Island” in
2015, and has been nominated for the 2016 Best Sex Therapist on Long Island award. Ms.Torrisi is
dedicated to helping people work through life’s unique challenges. She knows how hard it can be at
times, and is there to assist clients in reaching new solutions and working toward their goals. She has
provided therapeutic assistance to individuals coping with sexual issues, suffering from depression or
anxiety, and gender identity or sexual orientation issues, and has also taught life skills to young adults.
Ms.Torrisi has also treated couples seeking therapy for communication and relationship skills, sexual
enrichment, or premarital counseling. Ms.Torrisi is an LGBT-inclusive and kink aware therapist.
I) POSITIVE THINKING AS ESSENTIAL FOR MENTAL HEALTH
In practically every type of mental health problem, negative thinking is an important component of the
difficulty.As an example, in CBT, this would be the recognition of negative automatic thoughts.
However, negativity and negative thinking are encountered in all psychotherapeutic approaches. It
is critically important that we stress the need for mental health practitioners to think realistically and
habitually in their psychotherapeutic work and in their own lives.This workshop will guide participants
through effective methods,such as “BRIM”,to teach clients positive thinking.Throughout the presentation,
participants will learn the importance of these mind practices, since they are still taught after more than
3,000 years in Yoga, Mindfulness, Buddhist, and other meditations.The workshop will explore these
practices and show how they may be incorporated into all types of psychotherapeutic practices.
DANIEL L.ARAOZ, ED.D., LMHC, NCC,ACS, FA COP(ABPP),ABPH
Dr. Daniel Araoz received his doctor of education (Ed.D.) from Columbia University in marriage and
family counseling, and has been a professor of counselor education at LIU Post for over 40 years. He
is now Professor Emeritus in the Department of Counseling and Development. He received his
psychoanalytic training at the American Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis and is a certified
psychoanalyst with the National Association for the Advancement of Psychoanalysis. He is an
internationally known lecturer and author of twelve books, including The New Hypnosis and
The New Hypnosis and Family Therapy, as well as, over 100 articles, book chapters and reviews. His
book, The Symptom is Not the Whole Story: Psychoanalysis for Non-Psychoanalysts, was written for
mental health counselors and other mental health professionals who do not have specific training in
psychodynamic therapy (PDT). His next book to be published will deal with Neuroscience, Buddhism
and Hypnosis. Dr.Araoz is a clinical member and approved supervisor of the American Association for
Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), a certified sex therapist and Diplomate in Sex Therapy with the

8. American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is board certified in
clinical hypnosis and a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychological Hypnosis (ABPH). He is also
the author of numerous articles related to sexuality and sex therapy and the books Hypnosis and Sex
Therapy and Sexual Joy Through Self-Hypnosis with Robert Bleck. Dr.Araoz maintains a private practice
in mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, sex therapy, and hypnosis. His predominant
theoretical orientation is psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
J) THE UNFINISHED GESTALTS OF GESTALTTHERAPY AND THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS
IN THE NOW
This workshop will provide participants with an overview of what constitutes Gestalt Therapy:
present-centeredness, I and Thou, here and now, awareness, the dialogical- dialectical process, the
sterile void and the grand paradox. Explanation of the various gestalt techniques will be provided
including: expressive techniques, suppressive techniques, techniques of integration and tools, such as
“empty chair work”. It will also examine the transpersonal aspect of gestalt as reflected in Buddhism,
Taoism and Meditation.The presenter will also address the unfinished gestalts of gestalt therapy and
how psychoanalysis and cognitive behavior therapy can be incorporated into the gestalt framework and
perspective.The concept of forgiveness and its characteristics will also be examined as the presenter
will describe what forgiveness really is and how to lead clients to forgive others and to also forgive one’s
own self.
REGINA COFRIN, PH.D, ED.D, LMHC, CASAC-T
Dr. Regina Cofrin was awarded a doctorate (Ed.D.) in Spanish from Columbia University. She also earned
a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Metaphysical Counseling from the University of Sedona. Dr. Cofrin
received a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from LIU Post and is a NYS Licensed
Mental Health Counselor. She also is pursuing her CASAC having worked as a Substance Abuse
Counselor at Outreach II. Dr. Cofrin has received extensive training in gestalt therapy from the Gestalt
Center of Long Island, and is presently pursuing NYS Certification as a Gestalt Therapist. Dr. Cofrin has
many years of teaching experience at the University level having taught at both Hofstra University and
Briarcliffe College and is listed in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.
K) DIALETICAL BEHAVIOR THERAPY – INTEGRATED CARE (DBT-IC): THE CASE FOR COMPREHENSIVE
OUT-PATIENTTREATMENT PROTOCOL
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was developed by Marsha M. Linehan and was expressly designed
for, and shown to be effective with, clients with serious, multiple problems. Over the last two decades,
many research studies have supported the effectiveness of the DBT approach with Borderline
Personality Disorder (BPD). More recently, DBT has been demonstrated to be effective with other clinical
presentations, both in research protocols and with anecdotal evidence.This workshop will cover the
basic framework of DBT beyond treatment of individuals with BPD, and will also offer a response to
the developing landscape of mental health care under the Affordable Care Act.There is a current crisis
in this country in effective treatment of very seriously ill individuals, who are discharged after brief,
in-patient stabilization, abbreviated coverage of step-down Partial and IOP programs, and have limited
access to necessary, comprehensive follow-up outpatient care. DBT-IC is an expanded treatment model
designed to meet the needs of patients in immediate post-hospitalization recovery, patients seeking
to build a life worth living, breaking the cycle of hospitalization and prompting a community mental
health wellness model.The workshop will present, through discussion, the basic behavioral theory
underpinning DBT. It will also present the patient conceptualization process in DBT, as well as treatment
strategies in an acute care setting and outpatient setting.The participants will also learn to understand
the organization of DBT skills modules and the function of the consultation team concept in DBT.
JAMIE D. SHUMAKE, M.S., LMHC
Mr.Shumake received his master’s degree in mental health counseling from LIU Post and is a NYS Licensed
Mental Health Counselor.He is currently working as a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist at NewYork
Presbyterian Hospital inWhite Plains,N.Y.dealing with the full scope of psychopharmacological treatments.
He has received intensive training in Dialetical Behavior Therapy from Drs. Michelle Galetta and
Christine Foertsch at Behavioral Tech. He received additional advanced intensive training at Behavior
Tech by the developer of DBT, Dr. Marsha M. Linehan, and her colleague, Dr. Shari Manning. He is a
founding member of the DBT Center of Southern Connecticut in Stamford, Connecticut with Karen H.
Brody, M.D. Mr. Shumake is also a founding member and Consultation Team Leader of DBTAssociates
of Nyack, and was an Adjunct Professor of Counseling for many years at LIU Hudson.
L) COUPLES COUNSELING: AN INTRODUCTION
The focus of this interactive workshop will be to: review what makes couple counseling different from
individual, group, and family counseling; discuss methods of how to begin working with a couple; and
explain how to create and use genograms in treatment with sample genogram handouts. Interaction
with the presenter will be encouraged throughout the workshop.The presenter will discuss some of the
differences and overlap among couple, individual, group, and family counseling modalities including
common methods used from CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Systems theory. Systems theory
will be discussed as it applies to couple counseling from the initial session through the first few
sessions, as well as typical shifts that may occur throughout treatment including common difficulties
with transference and co-transference, trust, and communication within the dyad. Participants will learn
how to create and use genograms throughout treatment during the workshop.
SEAN WOLL, M.S., LMHC
Sean Woll obtained his master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Adelphi University in 2009.
He has experience in a variety of settings including interning at Pilgrim Psychiatric Center and in
an outpatient PROS program, supervising an adult community residence program for six years, and
maintaining a private practice for nearly five years. Mr.Woll also enjoys lecturing at his alma mater, St.
Joseph’s College, where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and currently teaches Group
Dynamics & Communication. He completed post-graduate training in couples counseling through
Adelphi University’s Derner Institute and attends various workshops throughout the year to stay current
in the field. His specialties include couples counseling as well as anxiety, depression, life stress,
behavioral issues, and trauma. Mr.Woll utilizes an integrated approach mainly comprised of
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT, and Systems Theory with influence from Psychoanalysis and
Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

9. Long Island Chapter
NYMHCA
Long Island NYMHCA is a local branch of the New York Mental Health
Counselors Association.We have been meeting on Long Island since 2002.
Our purpose is to provide opportunities for networking, mentoring of
students and new professionals, and continuing professional education for
our members.
Jean Fiust, M.S., LMHC
Chapter President
JFshadow@aol.com
The Department of Counseling and Development provides an educational environment which fosters
the personal and professional growth of future counselors and related professionals while upholding
the highest ethical standards and respect for individual differences.The Department’s goal is to prepare
students to be competent, professional, and prepared to take leadership roles in the counseling
profession, both in the greater New York area and nationally.The Department is committed to provide
field experiences and professional activities that enrich the lives of students and that foster professional
partnerships with community organizations. Graduates will be skilled in the latest counseling
techniques, cognizant of the technology available to counselors and related professionals, and will
become advocates for the diverse population they serve. Both of our counseling specialty programs are
based on a wellness model and are developmentally oriented.
ACCREDITATION
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling Programs are approved by and
registered with the New York State Education Department. Both programs are accredited by the Council
for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the Middle States
Accreditation Association. Our 60 credit Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has been
certified by the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions, as “licensure
qualifying,” meaning that graduates of the mental health counseling program automatically meet the
educational requirements for licensure as a mental health counselor.
The Master’s Degree Program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling has also been approved by the
Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) as an Education and Training Provider.
Upon completion of the program graduates are eligible to become a Credentialed Alcohol and
Substance Abuse Counselor-Trainee (CASAC-T).Additionally, the Department of Counseling and
Development has received New York State Education Department (NYSED) approval for its Advanced
Certificate Program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling which is a “licensure qualifying bridge
program” allowing individuals with a master’s degree in school counseling or other related counseling
degree to automatically meet the educational requirements for licensure as a mental health counselor.
DEPARTMENTOFCOUNSELING&DEVELOPMENT,
DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELING AND DEVELOPMENT
LIU POST
720 Northern Boulevard
Brookville, New York 11548
(516) 299-2814/2815
www.liu.edu/post/counseling
DR.JAMES J. COLANGELO, CHAIR
Department of Counseling and Development
New York Mental Health Counselors Association
NYMHCA
NYMHCA is the advocacy organization representing the clinical counselors
of New York State. We worked to obtain licensure, and our continuing role
is to protect and enhance the rights of counselors to practice our profession!
NYMHCA is the state branch of the American Mental Health Counselors
Association.Membership inAMHCAis encouraged but not required to join us.
New York Mental Health Counselors Association
206 Greenbelt Parkway, Holbrook, New York 11741-4411
1-800-4-NYMHCA
Fax: 631-472-3866
www.nymhca.org

10. The Department of Counseling and
Development, LIU Post has been approved
by NBCC as an Approved Continuing
Education Provider,ACEP #4016. Programs
that do not qualify for NBCC credit are
clearly identified. The Department of
Counseling and Development, LIU Post is
solely responsible for all aspects of
the programs.
James.Colangelo@liu.edu
NOTES

11. DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELING AND DEVELOPMENT
LIU POST
720 NORTHERN BOULEVARD
BROOKVILLE, NEW YORK 11548
(516) 299-2814/2815
WWW.LIU.EDU/POST/COUNSELING
DR. JAMES J. COLANGELO, CHAIR
DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELING AND DEVELOPMENT