Dr. Blank is the founder and director of Riverdale Psychology. She received her M.S. and Psy.D. from The Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology.
Using cognitive behavioral techniques and a psychodynamic conceptualization, I work with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family, group, and couples therapy providing a solution-oriented approach in a comfortable environment that enables you to successfully achieve your goals.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal relationships, and other life stressors. I received my doctoral degree from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, after graduating magna cum laude with highest honors from Queens College of the City University of New York.
Upon graduating, I was inducted into the Psi Chi National Psychology Honor Society and the Golden Key International Honor Society. I completed my training at the Child and Family Institute, Highlands Middle School, Rochambeau High School, the Audrey Hepburn Children’s House, the Northern Regional Diagnostic Center for Child Abuse and Neglect, the J.W. Beatman Community Counseling Center at the Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services, and at Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy.
Please explore my website and reach out should you feel that I can be of help to you or your loved ones. I offer a free 15-minute consultation and welcome your call.
Sharon earned her B.A. in Psychology from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. She has a first degree in law cum laude, an LL.M from the Hebrew University and an LL.M from NYU Law School. After working as an attorney, Sharon is pursing a graduate degree in psychology and has joined Riverdale Psychology as a supporting staff member. She is passionate about the field of psychology and is excited to join the team.
Dr. Gottesman received her PsyD from the combined School and Clinical Child program at Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology. She gained valuable experience in both testing and therapy in the Cresskill Public Schools, Youth Consultation Services of NJ, the William Alanson White Institute, and New Alternatives for Children. In addition to her work at Riverdale Psychology, Dr. Gottesman is a post-doctoral fellow at the William Alanson White Institute, where she provides individual psychodynamic psychotherapy to adults and adolescents.
Dr. Gottesman’s evaluations are comprehensive and strive to look at each individual holistically. She provides a thorough understanding of the cognitive and academic issues, while keeping in mind the valuable interplay between academic functioning and social/emotional wellbeing. She enjoys building relationships with clients and their families to best understand the individual and provide relevant and practical recommendations tailored for each client’s needs.
Ayelet Gottesman, Psy.D.
Post-Doctoral Fellow
Director of Psychoeducational Evaluations
Ayelet@RiverdalePsychology.com
Dr. Michelle Sarna is a licensed developmental psychologist who has worked with children, adolescents, emerging adults and their families in multiple settings, including schools, camps, university campuses, and community centers. Michelle genuinely enjoys partnering with clients to create a safe space that fosters reflection, humor, curiosity, acceptance, and growth, and helps her clients feel empowered in their own narrative. Michelle currently works full time as a School Psychologist and as a Camp Psychologist, and previously served as the Director of the Educational Alliance Preschool. She earned her Masters of Science in Education, Professional Diploma in Early Childhood Development and PhD in School Psychology from Fordham University. She completed postdoctoral research at the NYU School of Law on Emerging Adulthood and has taught at NYU's Wagner School for Public Service and Fordham University's School of Education. Michelle is passionate about collaborating with schools, families, and other caregivers to best support and scaffold optimal growth and well being.