About Us
Dr. Tyson Furr - Director
The son of an Experimental and School Psychologist, Dr. Furr grew up in an
environment that encouraged curiosity about and the application of knowledge and the humanities to help individuals attain their goals in life. Dr. Furr has worked in a diverse set of clinical settings, from virtually all parts of society and has taught classes in Mindfulness, Relationships and Social Psychology.
Dr. Furr has helped men and women of all sexual orientation with eating disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, psychotic disorders, marital difficulties and sexual trauma. Dr. Furr has also helped combat veterans overcome Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and remains committed to helping veterans recover and adjust to life after military service.
Dr. Furr graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from the University of California at Santa Cruz, where he participated in conducting research in Social Psychology and studied under the noted Social Psychologist Elliot Aronson. There, Dr. Furr learned the factors of attraction in relationships, the danger of distorted self-justifying when one does not live according to one's values, the powerful influence of environment on individuals behavior, and the importance of awareness of one's bias in social situations...READ MORE
environment that encouraged curiosity about and the application of knowledge and the humanities to help individuals attain their goals in life. Dr. Furr has worked in a diverse set of clinical settings, from virtually all parts of society and has taught classes in Mindfulness, Relationships and Social Psychology.
Dr. Furr has helped men and women of all sexual orientation with eating disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, psychotic disorders, marital difficulties and sexual trauma. Dr. Furr has also helped combat veterans overcome Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and remains committed to helping veterans recover and adjust to life after military service.
Dr. Furr graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from the University of California at Santa Cruz, where he participated in conducting research in Social Psychology and studied under the noted Social Psychologist Elliot Aronson. There, Dr. Furr learned the factors of attraction in relationships, the danger of distorted self-justifying when one does not live according to one's values, the powerful influence of environment on individuals behavior, and the importance of awareness of one's bias in social situations...READ MORE
Dr. Yishai Barkhordari
My clients are met first and foremost with understanding of their needs and who they are. Open-minded curiosity and unconditional caring form the foundation of our work to clearly formulate and best address their needs together.
Sometimes we simply need a few strategies to cope with life's challenges. Other times, something deeper may feel like it is missing, or aspects of our past and present relationships, feelings, and thoughts are at play. Making connections between the past and present in a safe, therapeutic space often reduces the hold that our past may have on us.
For couples, aspects of each partner interact with one another and may at times result in frustrating or challenging interactions, patterns, and experiences. Learning to skillfully identify and address your own and your partner's complex wants, needs, emotions, and reactions is the key to lasting joy and love.
As a licensed psychologist at Herald Square Psychology, I bring years of clinical experience working with children, college students, and adults from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds on issues ranging from anxiety, depression, and substance use to sexual orientation, intimacy, and parenting. I earned my B.A. from Yeshiva University, and my M.S. and PhD. degrees from Fordham University.
Sometimes we simply need a few strategies to cope with life's challenges. Other times, something deeper may feel like it is missing, or aspects of our past and present relationships, feelings, and thoughts are at play. Making connections between the past and present in a safe, therapeutic space often reduces the hold that our past may have on us.
For couples, aspects of each partner interact with one another and may at times result in frustrating or challenging interactions, patterns, and experiences. Learning to skillfully identify and address your own and your partner's complex wants, needs, emotions, and reactions is the key to lasting joy and love.
As a licensed psychologist at Herald Square Psychology, I bring years of clinical experience working with children, college students, and adults from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds on issues ranging from anxiety, depression, and substance use to sexual orientation, intimacy, and parenting. I earned my B.A. from Yeshiva University, and my M.S. and PhD. degrees from Fordham University.
Dr. Tara Brennan
Tara Brennan, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist at Herald Square Psychology. Her approach to psychotherapy is integrated – dependent on each client’s goals and presenting problems. She has an active, collaborative approach to treatment. Dr. Brennan incorporates treatment interventions from multiple modalities, relying most heavily on Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic approaches. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, adult survivors of early trauma, adult ADHD, multicultural issues, life transitions, and sleep difficulties... READ MORE
Dr. Christina Gille
Dr. Gille is a post-doctoral psychology resident at Herald Square Psychology. Dr. Gille completed her undergraduate studies in New York, earning an A.S. in Criminal Justice from Nassau Community College and her B.A. in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Dr. Gille continued on to graduate studies, earning her M.A. and PsyD. in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University in San Diego, California...READ MORE
Dr. Vena Budhan
Vena Budhan, Ph.D., earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from Palo Alto University with a concentration in clinical neuroscience and women's health through a consortium program with Stanford University School of Medicine. Prior to pursuing her doctoral studies in the San Francisco Bay Area, Dr. Budhan received her B.A. in psychology from Hofstra University on Long Island and her M.A. in general psychology from The New School for Social Research in New York City. Dr. Budhan’s approach to treatment is integrated and individually tailored to meet the specific immediate and long-term goals of each patient. She incorporates treatment modalities from numerous evidence-based approaches in order to provide the highest quality care... READ MORE
Dr. Olivia Wu
Dr. Wu has had a long-time interest in psychology in both research and clinical areas. Dr. Wu graduated from Carnegie Mellon University, studying psychology and biology, and the clinical psychology PhD program at Long Island University, Brooklyn campus. She has also worked at the National Institute of Mental Health in a neuroscience lab. In these experiences, Dr. Wu has learned to combine biology and neuroscience intertwined with object relational theory to help her patients with coping skills in depression and anxiety, attachment issues, and relationship problems. Dr. Wu is integrative in that she thinks of her clients in a psychodynamic way and uses both insight oriented therapy as well as CBT skills to help alleviate her clients’ symptoms. She also uses Buddhist psychology in her practice. Dr. Wu finds that in many clients, regardless of the symptoms, nonacceptance of the true self can feel particularly distressing in contexts that trigger these feelings. The idea is to help the client “let go” of the anxiety and build an observing ego. From there, therapy can then start to help the client grow and change... READ MORE
Carol Pauls
Whether you are looking to therapy for help in overcoming difficult challenges and symptoms in your life or simply for self-exploration, therapy can be life changing. I am a hands-on active therapist who is not afraid to roll up my sleeves and get to work. I will seek to give you real, concrete takeaways in order to help jumpstart meaningful change. I work from a collaborative approach to build a unique relationship with each individual in an environment of safety and trust. Whether it is focusing on painful feelings, relationships, difficult life transitions, creative blocks, stress, or healing from challenging life experiences, my goal is to help you discover the obstacles that block positive growth while building on your strengths within a healing relationship... READ MORE
Mary Mercandetti
Helping others learn about themselves by exploring underlying aspects is an important part in achieving a sense of fulfillment and freedom from emotional suffering. Helping others discover themselves and grow into the best version of themselves is something I am very passionate about. I provide a nonjudgmental, safe, and empathic atmosphere that allows each person to explore and overcome their inner struggles.
I have worked with people who have a diverse range of issues, including those related to sexual orientation, gender identity, relationship struggles, family problems, substance abuse, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. I have worked with children as young as 5, adolescents, adults, and families. Couples and Family Therapy is something that I am particularly interested in.
I have worked with people who have a diverse range of issues, including those related to sexual orientation, gender identity, relationship struggles, family problems, substance abuse, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. I have worked with children as young as 5, adolescents, adults, and families. Couples and Family Therapy is something that I am particularly interested in.
Jennifer Brick
Therapy can be a place to find meaning, overcome a challenge, or gain emotional support. Regardless your reason for seeking counseling, I applaud your courage. Choosing to enter therapy can be difficult but I am here to show you that you are not alone in your healing process. Using relationship-based, strength-focused psychotherapy, I create a safe and supportive environment to allow my patients to feel comfort and ease as they find the power to overcome adversities.
I earned my B.A. in sociology at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA and continued my education at Erikson Institute in Chicago, IL where I obtained my Masters in Social Work with a Children and Families Concentration. I have experience working with men, women, and children from diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, socioeconomic statuses and physical abilities. I have assisted individuals faced with grief, interpersonal difficulties, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, severe medical diagnoses and parental stress. I use Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help guide you toward your goals.
I earned my B.A. in sociology at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA and continued my education at Erikson Institute in Chicago, IL where I obtained my Masters in Social Work with a Children and Families Concentration. I have experience working with men, women, and children from diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, socioeconomic statuses and physical abilities. I have assisted individuals faced with grief, interpersonal difficulties, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, severe medical diagnoses and parental stress. I use Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help guide you toward your goals.
Xiao Ling
Xiao believes there’s no single approach fits in everyone’s needs. Rather, she emphasizes the incorporation of different approaches including psychodynamic, relational, and CBT depending on the presenting problems, treatment goals, and cultural backgrounds of the individuals. She values the therapeutic alliance in treatment and approaches her clients in a warm, accepting, and supportive way. In addition, Xiao believes it is the therapeutic relationship itself facilitates the changing process of the individual. Given her training in both Taiwan and the US as well as her own experience as a minority in the US, Xiao has brought the unique experience of working with individuals from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. She understands that seeking psychotherapy can be challenging for many people, but she would love to accompany her clients throughout the whole journey. READ MORE...
Jie Zhao, MA, EdM, MHC-LP
Born and raised in China, Jie has always been interested in how people become who they are in relationship to other people and their environment. Jie completed her Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Honours Cognitive Science at McGill University in Canada. She then moved to New York to continue her studies at Columbia University and received her Master of Arts and Master of Education degrees in Mental Health Counseling. Jie had past clinical experiences at Hamilton-Madison House and Fordham University Counseling and Psychological Services.
Jie has been trained in several modalities including ACT Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) and Multicultural Counseling. Jie utilizes techniques from various approaches and incorporates both Western and Eastern philosophies to better understand her clients. Besides psychotherapy, Jie is also an actor at New York Mandarin Playback, where she integrates psychology and acting to provide a different perspective for emotion expression and body movements. Jie provides psychotherapy in both English and Mandarin. Areas of clinical experiences include anxiety, depression, identity issues, relationship difficulties, self-esteem and family distress.
Jie has been trained in several modalities including ACT Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) and Multicultural Counseling. Jie utilizes techniques from various approaches and incorporates both Western and Eastern philosophies to better understand her clients. Besides psychotherapy, Jie is also an actor at New York Mandarin Playback, where she integrates psychology and acting to provide a different perspective for emotion expression and body movements. Jie provides psychotherapy in both English and Mandarin. Areas of clinical experiences include anxiety, depression, identity issues, relationship difficulties, self-esteem and family distress.
Tomasz Skiba, PhD
Tomasz Skiba is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in providing empowering therapy for adults of all ages and backgrounds. Dr. Skiba values diversity, individuality, authenticity, acceptance, and compassion. Dr. Skiba builds professional relationship with clients by establishing safety, trust and openness. Dr. Skiba sees clients with a broad range of difficulties such as personal growth struggles, work stress, stress, health & wellness, anxiety, depression, men's sexual dysfunction, and many others. Dr. Skiba utilizes a client-centered approach to create an individual plan consisting of a variety of therapeutic modalities to promote change, growth, awareness, and empowerment. READ MORE...
Shani Grunsfeld, PhD
Shani Grunsfeld, PhD, is a postdoctoral psychology resident at Herald Square Psychology. Dr. Grunsfeld’s approach to therapy is integrative, drawing on elements of object relations to help a client understand their context, cognitive behavioral therapy to allow the client to develop meaningful coping strategies, and humanistic therapy to reset a client’s expectations about him or herself as well as the world at large, all within a warm, unconditional and empathic setting.
Shani specializes in working with adults seeking help with interpersonal difficulties, dating and significant-other conflict and resolution, depression, anxiety, family conflict, particularly for recent immigrant families and their offspring.
Dr. Grunsfeld obtained her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. She completed an APA-accredited internship at Yeshiva University, which included running anxiety and stress reduction group therapy for law school students. Having gained experience working across a variety of business and legal settings, Dr. Grunsfeld is uniquely attuned to the demands and elevated stress levels prevalent within the real estate and investment banking sectors.
Dr Grunsfeld is an associate professor at Touro College in NYC, as well as a Post-Doc fellow in Research at Fielding Graduate University, where she has several studies in various stages of publication in the areas of parent-infant attachment, intergenerational transmission of child-sexual abuse, and EBT for borderline personality disorder.
Shani specializes in working with adults seeking help with interpersonal difficulties, dating and significant-other conflict and resolution, depression, anxiety, family conflict, particularly for recent immigrant families and their offspring.
Dr. Grunsfeld obtained her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. She completed an APA-accredited internship at Yeshiva University, which included running anxiety and stress reduction group therapy for law school students. Having gained experience working across a variety of business and legal settings, Dr. Grunsfeld is uniquely attuned to the demands and elevated stress levels prevalent within the real estate and investment banking sectors.
Dr Grunsfeld is an associate professor at Touro College in NYC, as well as a Post-Doc fellow in Research at Fielding Graduate University, where she has several studies in various stages of publication in the areas of parent-infant attachment, intergenerational transmission of child-sexual abuse, and EBT for borderline personality disorder.
Beatrice Rivera, LCSW-R
Therapy is a journey of self-discovery. Through active listening and integrative approaches, the past is explored to determine how it relates to the present.
My work focuses on helping clients with a range of issues, such as trauma, grief therapy, depression, anxiety, life transitions, interpersonal conflicts, and anger management. I tailor therapy to best meet my client’s needs.
With over 15 years of experience, I have utilized a variety of therapeutic techniques, honing my skills in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. I provide clients with the tools needed to cultivate change and personal growth through developing awareness.
I received my Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive experience in Employee Assistance Program (EAP) work, dealing with issues around occupational stress and job jeopardy.
My work focuses on helping clients with a range of issues, such as trauma, grief therapy, depression, anxiety, life transitions, interpersonal conflicts, and anger management. I tailor therapy to best meet my client’s needs.
With over 15 years of experience, I have utilized a variety of therapeutic techniques, honing my skills in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. I provide clients with the tools needed to cultivate change and personal growth through developing awareness.
I received my Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive experience in Employee Assistance Program (EAP) work, dealing with issues around occupational stress and job jeopardy.
Kelsey Millan, LMSW
Kelsey Millan is a Social Worker at Herald Square Psychology. Kelsey received her Master of Social Work from Adelphi University School of Social Work and is a Licensed Master Social Worker in New York State. Kelsey worked several years with individuals with developmental disabilities. Kelsey has provided trauma-informed and strengths-based support to victims and survivors of intimate partner violence. More recently Kelsey provided preventive and clinical support through psychotherapy to college students with diverse backgrounds in individual and group settings. Kelsey utilizes evidence based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing.
Kelsey believes in supporting the individual’s autonomy, acknowledging their values and opinions, and strengthening self-esteem. Therapy can assist in learning from past experiences while living in the present. Therapy takes courage, strength, and patience. Kelsey believes in working together with clients to assess their needs, building trust, and exploring issues. READ MORE...
Kelsey believes in supporting the individual’s autonomy, acknowledging their values and opinions, and strengthening self-esteem. Therapy can assist in learning from past experiences while living in the present. Therapy takes courage, strength, and patience. Kelsey believes in working together with clients to assess their needs, building trust, and exploring issues. READ MORE...
Samantha Connolly, MHC
Starting therapy can be daunting, especially when you haven’t seen a therapist before. However, it is an important step to take in order to heal from psychological pain, whether it stems from a traumatic experience, current life stressors, or an internal struggle that is too intimidating to go through alone. Samantha Connolly, MHC, takes an empathetic and caring approach to therapy, ensuring that the client is comfortable, safe, and supported at every step of the way. Rather than sticking to one treatment plan, Samantha tailors sessions around the client’s goals, interests, and comfort. There are times in life where we could all use someone in our corner who has our best interest in mind, and Samantha can be that person for you.
Samantha earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Loyola University Maryland and her master’s degree in mental health counseling from Manhattan College School of Education and Health. READ MORE...
Samantha earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Loyola University Maryland and her master’s degree in mental health counseling from Manhattan College School of Education and Health. READ MORE...
Diana Blaser, MHC-LP
Seeking therapy can be intimidating or even scary. It can be hard to share your deepest struggles or hold hope that therapy will bring about change and provide relief when you are feeling stuck. Although it can be a frightening step, therapy can help you heal and bring meaningful change in your life. I am passionate about providing powerful tools that can bring complete recovery.
I can help you learn cutting edge tools to overcome depression, anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, habits and addictions. My approach is based on a type of therapy that is widely regarded as an effective and efficient form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), called TEAM therapy. This approach is highly dependent on the collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. It offers many powerful cognitive, behavioral and interpersonal methods that I cannot wait to show you. These methods that have been incorporated into TEAM-CBT come from various schools of psychotherapy. READ MORE...
I can help you learn cutting edge tools to overcome depression, anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, habits and addictions. My approach is based on a type of therapy that is widely regarded as an effective and efficient form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), called TEAM therapy. This approach is highly dependent on the collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. It offers many powerful cognitive, behavioral and interpersonal methods that I cannot wait to show you. These methods that have been incorporated into TEAM-CBT come from various schools of psychotherapy. READ MORE...
Jonathan Zimmerman, LMSW
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with experience working with individuals, families, and groups with a broad range of diagnoses in partial hospital and intensive outpatient settings within Butler Psychiatric Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Mindfulness practices, and Psychodynamic Therapy. My specialized training in stress and trauma allows me to help clients who are in a state of despair about their loss of control, hopelessness, helplessness, shame, and guilt. Everyone has the ability to heal and break free from long-standing and harmful patterns or perceptions that may be holding them back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. READ MORE...