Our Staff
All HPS Professionals have expertise in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and other techniques for the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Panic Attacks, Phobia, Marital Difficulties, Social Skills Training, Assertiveness Training, Eating Disorders, Parenting Skills, Anger Management, Learning Disabilities (including ADD-ADHD) and Self-Esteem Improvement. Our therapists treat children, adults and couples. For more information on the backgrounds of our professionals click on their names above, or see below.
Fred L. Holtz, PhD
Executive Director of HPS, Psychologist
Education: PhD in Clinical and School Psychology – Hofstra University, MA with Distinction in Clinical and School Psychology – Hofstra University, BA in Psychology – SUNY Stonybrook, AA in Liberal Arts – Nassau Community College
Ages Treated: 12 to Adult
Fred L. Holtz, PhD is Executive Director of Holtz Psychological Services. He received his Doctorate from Hofstra University and did his undergraduate work at SUNY Stony Brook and Nassau Community College. His Master's degree, also from Hofstra, was granted "With Distinction" for outstanding academic, research, and clinical accomplishment. He was given numerous awards of recognition for clinical excellence. Dr. Holtz is the author of Ten Ways To Reduce Stress and Anxiety TODAY, a practical booklet on identifying and reducing anxiety. His articles and workshops on coping with stress, and on improving communication in relationships have been featured on Long Island NEWS 12 and in NEWSDAY.
Dr. Holtz has extensive experience in individual and marital therapy, learning disabilities and psychological evaluation. Dr. Holtz has been in private practice for over twenty-two years, and has been a guest lecturer and workshop leader for businesses and civic organizations. The Therapy-Now website was established over sixteen years ago and was one of the first sites of its kind. The website remains on the cutting edge of quality. In addition to his private practice, Dr. Holtz is adjunct Professor of Psychology at Suffolk County Community College. Dr. Fred has an obvious passion for providing the very best Psychological services to Long Island residents. He will do whatever it takes to make the therapeutic experience the most comfortable, pragmatic and effective available. He is dedicated to having both clients and colleagues reach their ultimate potential.
"I was always good at listening to people. Way back in high school my friends would call me for advice with personal decisions and relationship issues. I took an interest in Psychology at Nassau Community College where I started to do well in psychology courses. I received excellent feedback from my professors at NCC. I became a Psychology major because I was always fascinated with helping people. My Father always had a calm wisdom in giving advice and dealing with family issues, and my Mother is a boisterous, engaging woman truly enthralled with getting to know other people. I like to think that I am a combination of the two.
In graduate school I worked with individuals with physical and emotional disabilities, Asperger's and mental retardation. I took special interest in anxiety disorders, relationship issues and Attention Deficit Disorder. I excel in helping individuals who are going through life changing situations cope more effectively and achieve their life goals. By the end of therapy clients will better reach their own potential so that they can succeed in challenging daily situations and navigate through future problems. I want them to improve their lives and be more satisfied, relaxed, and comfortable with themselves. I approach each client in a relaxed, informal, pragmatic manner. I attempt to understand each person, their unique set of circumstances, and their individual goals and aspirations. clients leave the very first session with something to think about so the therapy starts immediately. I have always been interested in creative activities: photography, music production, media, books, and reading. I encourage my clients to develop and pursue hobbies and pastimes as well."
Other Interests: Photography, Music Recording, Graphic Design, Movies, Books
Click to follow Dr. Fred on Twitter 
You can e-mail Dr. Fred at Fred@Therapy-Now.com
Barry R. Donowitz, PhD
Psychologist
Education: PhD in Clinical and School Psychology – Hofstra University, MA in Psychology with Distinction – Hofstra University, BA in Psychology with distinction
Ages Treated: 6 to Adult
Dr. Barry Donowitz received his PhD in Clinical and School Psychology from Hofstra University and has been a Licensed Psychologist since 1994. His past employment includes Southeast Nassau Guidance Center, Port Jefferson Psychological and Vocational Associates, United Cerebral Palsy, and Family Residences and Essential Enterprises. Dr. Donowitz provides individual, couples and family therapy for children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Barry practices Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as other techniques. His pragmatic approach addresses emotional difficulties directly and effectively, and his calm, engaging personality instantly makes clients comfortable during sessions. Dr. Barry has been with HPS for almost ten years and is a valued member of our professional family.
"My father got me interested in helping others as a child. In high school and during my undergraduate career I followed my father's footsteps in working with people with disabilities. He encouraged me. I went to Binghamton University where I interned at a crisis hotline as an undergraduate. I also had practicum placements at Binghamton psychiatric center. I specialize in anxiety and mood disorders, marital therapy, autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. I work with both children and adults. By the end of therapy my goal for clients is to eliminate or significantly reduce symptoms of presenting problems, to feel more empowered, and to overall have a better quality of life. I take a very pragmatic and open approach. I like to partner with the client and overcome their challenges and my general orientation is cognitive behavioral."
Other Interests: Housing for individuals with disabilities
You can e-mail Dr. Barry at Barry@Therapy-Now.com
Dr. Adria Weinstein, Psy.D
Psychologist
Education: Psy.D. in Clinical and School Psychology – Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University. Master of Science, School Psychology - Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University. Bachelor of Science, Psychology – University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Ages Treated: 5 to Adult
Dr. Adria Weinstein received a dual doctorate of Psychology in Clinical and School Psychology from Yeshiva University. Dr. Adria is a certified School Psychologist in New York and New Jersey, as well as a practicing Clinical Therapist. Her past employment includes Farmingdale School District, Beth Israel Medical Center, Sagamore Psychological Center, Pleasantville School District, and Claremont Preparatory School. Dr. Adria provides individual, group, and family therapy, as well as psychological assessment and evaluation for children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Adria applies a strength based approach with a theoretical foundation in contemporary psychodynamics and strong influences from both Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) and family systems theories. Dr. Adria's goals in treatment are to highlight an individual's strengths, bring awareness to weaknesses, build confidence, and ultimately create a place for positive change and transformation. Her engaging personality and natural warmth are a comfort to both clients and colleagues.
Other Interests: Hiking, Skiing, and Traveling
You can e-mail Adria at Adria@Therapy-Now.com
Tracy A. Gangi, PsyD
Coordinator of Assessment Services, Psychologist
Education: PsyD – Saint John's University, MS in Psychology – Saint John's University, BA in Psychology – Saint John's University
Ages Treated: 6 to Adult
Dr. Tracy Gangi has more than 15 years of professional experience helping children, teens, adults and couples to reach their maximum potential. She is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and has practiced Psychology at United States military bases in Germany, been a School Psychologist in Scottsdale, Arizona and has worked in both Nassau and Suffolk Counties on Long Island. She is a skilled diagnostician, psychotherapist and consultant as well as a pivotal team leader on Special Education Committees. Dr. Gangi is a highly engaging and effective professional with adults and an impassioned advocate for children with special needs. She has excelled at HPS and is a valued professional resource. Tracy's enthusiasm and pragmatic approach helps clients remain focused on important goals and achievements.
"I enjoy people tremendously. I am fascinated by people and the nuances and quirks that every person has. I was a school psychologist for 16 years and worked with the military in Germany and Scottsdale, AZ. I worked with children, parents and families. I have been successful in helping clients let go of guilt, overcome obstacles and anything holding them back from their full potential. I can help with anxiety, depression and anger. I perform psychological and educational evaluations for all ages. At our first meeting I make sure we work together in making goals to accomplish by the end of therapy. My approach is warm, engaging, direct, supportive, encouraging, enthusiastic, and accepting. Mostly my orientation is cognitive behavioral therapy and commitment and mindfulness therapies."
Other Interests: Eastern Long Island, Pets
You can e-mail Tracy at Tracy@Therapy-Now.com
Karen A. Jason, PhD
Psychologist
Education: PhD in Clinical Psychology - Derner Institute of Advanced Psychological Studies Adelphi University. Bachelor of Science, Psychology - Union College, Schenectedy
Ages Treated: 6 to Adult
Dr. Karen Jason has extensive experience in individual and group therapy, psychological assessment and working with children, teens, adults and families. For more than fourteen years she has been providing crisis intervention, parental and family support, individual and group counseling within an elementary school setting as well as supervising the assessment of school-age children. Dr. Karen's comfortable style works well with children and teens. She has special interest in helping people cope with eating disorders and improving communication in relationships. Dr. Karen's engaging and empathetic style, integrating both dynamic and Cognitive-Behavioral techniques, makes the therapeutic process very comfortable and rewarding. Her positive approach is inspiring to others.
"I have always liked figuring out tough problems. Working at an Eating Disorders clinic was very rewarding. What began as a volunteer position after college developed into an administrative position. I enjoy helping people find their own internal resources, as well as invent and utilize new coping skills. By the conclusion of therapy I want clients to find their strengths and use them effectively. My approach is empathetic."
Other Interests: Theater and performing arts
You can e-mail Karen at Karen@Therapy-Now.com
Cicely Horsham-Brathwaite, PhD
Psychologist
Education: PhD in Counseling Psychology – Temple University, MS in Counseling and Personnel Services – Fordham University, BA in Psychology – Lehigh University
Ages Treated: 12 to Adult
Dr. Cicely Horsham-Brathwaite is a licensed psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy. She works with women and men to successfully navigate life transitions. With over fourteen years experience as a therapist she has worked with a broad spectrum of clients including adolescents, adults and couples. Among her specializations are: Teaching effective parenting, self-care coaching, work-life balance, relationship issues, depression, anxiety and career concerns.
Dr. Cicely is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. She integrates complementary methodologies and techniques, including CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, she works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. Dr. Cicely has taught at the university level for over a decade, and during the last five years she has trained therapists at the master's level. She has a natural warmth and positive demeanor that is very comforting.
"My uncle was going to be a child psychologist and I always wanted to be like him. In college I enjoyed and excelled in psychology and advanced counseling classes. As an undergraduate I was a Women's Studies minor, learning about social justice and helping people to achieve equal rights. Then in graduate school the faculty members were interested in multicultural counseling and because of that I had opportunities to be a research and teaching assistant in environments focusing on women's and social issues. My graduate school environment was diverse in students and the counseling center had presented me with an opportunity to do career counseling and student affairs. I believe I am best at building strong alliances and relationships with clients, which is important because research shows that a strong foundation is most important in efficiency. I also work with relationship issues whether they are dating relationships, interpersonal issues or work friendships. Life transitions are another one of my specialties such as work or career changes, divorce, loss of a loved one and grieving. My overall goal for post therapy is that people realize they are making progress from their original state of mind. I want them to be able to transfer what they have learned in therapy to everyday life. I approach each person as an individual. It is important that therapy helps them to have motivation, adjust their core concerns, and that it is enjoyable at the same time. I am very interactive, like sessions to be dynamic, like to read, exercise and do things to make sure I am practicing the self-care that I recommend to others. I believe I have a great sense of humor which is important in the change process so I can be gentle and kind with individuals."
Other Interests: nutrition, work-life balance
You can e-mail Dr. Cicely at Cicely@Therapy-Now.com
Anny E. Gonell
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Education: Baccalaureate of Social Work (BSW) from York College, NYC Master of Social Work (MSW) from Adelphi University, Long Island, NY
Ages Treated: 5 to Adult
Anny Gonell Anny E. Gonell is a Master's Level, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has extensive training as both a Psychotherapist and a School Social Worker. She specializes in child and family issues, ADHD, parenting skills and helping children reach their maximum emotional and academic potential. Ms. Gonell has over ten years of experience in the field with a background in school, medical and clinical social work. Her therapeutic approach is primarily Cognitive – Behavioral.
Ms. Gonell is fully bilingual (English – Spanish) with extensive expertise in working with Early Intervention, Pre-School and Elementary School children. She has also worked with clients with Postpartum Depression, self esteem difficulties, abuse and other issues particular to women. Ms. Gonell enjoys assisting individuals and families that are having difficulty adjusting to American culture and children who are exhibiting adjustment problems.
Ms. Gonell's most recent accomplishments for 2011 include the production of a Spanish Language Relaxation CD and Relaxation Guidebook (available FREE), as well as a new Spanish translation of the popular book, A Child's Guide to Concentrating for Kids With ADHD by Bonita Blazer, PhD.
You can e-mail Dr. Anny at KidsGetBetter@gmail.com
Dr. Eva Greco, PsyD
Psychologist
Education: PsyD in Clinical Psychology – Nova Southeastern University, Florida, Master of Science in Clinical Pharmacology and MS in Psychology – Nova Southeastern University, BA in Psychology – Vanderbilt University, TN.
Ages Treated: 5 to Adult
Dr. Eva Greco is a Licensed Psychologist experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of emotional difficulties ranging from schizophrenia, dementia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, adjustment disorders and personality disorders. Dr. Eva completed the Health Psychology concentration while at Nova Southeastern University. She specializes in understanding the interaction of physical health with an individual's cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social functioning. Dr. Eva also completed her post-doctoral Master's Degree in Clinical Psychopharmacology in which she gained extensive knowledge of the treatment of disorders with medication and how these medications impact an individual's thoughts, mood and behaviors. She is skilled at performing and interpreting comprehensive Psychoeducational and Psychological Evaluations.
To provide the best therapy for each individual, Dr. Eva believes it is essential to take an integrative approach when developing a comprehensive treatment plan. All aspects of the person are considered. Dr. Eva has a reputation for excellence, dedication to her clients, and being an indispensible resource for her professional colleagues.
Dr. Eva is a Florida native who moved to New York in 2009. She completed her undergraduate studies at Vanderbilt University, where she was admitted to the Honors Program in Psychology.
Born of Hispanic parents, Dr. Eva is fully fluent in both English and Spanish. She received much of her training while working with Hispanic and multi-cultural populations in South Florida.
Other Interests: World Travel, Health Issues, Boating
You can e-mail Dr. Eva at Eva@Therapy-Now.com
Marissa Scarola
B.A. Psychology Stony Brook (Future MBA)
Marissa Scarola is our office manager and insurance specialist. She is a graduate student at SUNY Stony Brook where she is pursuing her MBA. Marissa does the initial intake for new clients and schedules appointments with appropriate professional staff. She processes all insurance claims and obtains outpatient mental health benefit details and pre-certification. Marissa is an expert in communicating with insurance companies. She an valued, irreplaceable resource for our clients and staff.
"Psychology has always been something I was interested in while growing up. I pursued reading articles and books about Psychology on my own and eventually became an undergraduate Psychology major. Originally I wanted to be a school psychologist but I am now working towards an MBA. I enjoy working with the therapists and I have the privilege of getting to know each of them individually by participating in the hiring process. By getting to know each of the therapists I can confidently recommend new clients appropriately. We get clients scheduled for appointments quicker than any other Psychological service. Having an actual person answer most of our phone calls allows most inquiries to be addressed within 24 hours. Most new clients are surprised to hear back from me and impressed when I tell them I can get them an appointment within the week or sometimes even the next day!"
You can e-mail Marissa at Harmony@optonline.net
Sandy Del Carpio
BA in Psychology, Dowling College (Future Physician Assistant)
Sandy Del Carpio Sandy Del Carpio is our Bilingual (English - Spanish) Evening Office Manager. She will set up and change appointments, obtain initial intake information, verify insurance claims, provide reminder calls and set up appointments for Spanish Speaking and Bilingual clients.
Sandy is currently in the Medical Studies program at SUNY Farmingdale where she will become an amazing Physician Assistant in the near future. She has an endearing and empathetic personality and has significant insight into medical and Psychological difficulties.
Sandy can be reached at the main office phone number: (631) 427-6669
