Meet Our Staff
Genie Portillo, LCSW-R, LCDC, CCTP, EMDR-trained Therapist, CCTHP
Meet our founder, Genie:
I am the owner of TurningPoint Specialized Services. My specialty revolves around individual and family systems therapy which includes a unique approach to couples therapy (marriage counseling), life transitions, children, adolescents and family of origin issues. Through my continuing postgraduate training I have developed a behavioral, relational, and psychodynamic psychotherapeutic approach to assist in alleviating these patterns by enhancing communication styles, negotiating skills and problem solving techniques.
I am also a trauma specialist. I work with individuals with PTSD and grief related issues. My work in the substance abuse field included clients both inpatient and outpatient and their families. I am also currently licensed in the state of Texas as a LCDC (licensed chemical dependency counselor). As I continue to learn and grow everyday, I want to share that with incoming counselors in this field. I received my SIFI certification (Seminar Training in Field Instruction) which allows me to give back to this wonderful community and encourage counselors to continue to learn under my supervision. Together, we can build a better future.
Dr. Kelly Zinn, MA, DSW, LCSW
Meet Dr.Kelly:
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified Good Inside parenting coach, and certified School Social Worker in New York and New Jersey. I earned my MSW from SUNY Stony Brook in 2004 and my Doctorate of Social work from Rutgers University in 2020. In addition to the 14 years that I was employed as a school social worker, I have also worked as a therapist in a treatment foster care program and served as the coordinator of a support group program for families who have experienced sexual abuse.
I currently work as a therapist at Turning Point Specialized Services, LLC, a professor in the MSW program at St. Joseph's University, and contract with school districts to provide mental health services to students. I have presented at conferences on the local, state, and national levels, and have been published in peer-reviewed journals and a textbook for clinical students; all of which is a testament to my commitment to the professional development of social workers.
Lacey Donlon, MA, LMSW
Meet Lacey:
I graduated from Stony Brook University with my Bachelor’s in Psychology and then my Master’s Degree in Social Work with a specialization in families, youth, and transitioning to adulthood. I have experience working with diverse populations, using a person-centered and strengths-based approach through a cultural humility and trauma informed lens. I also have experience in working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups in a variety of different areas.
I utilize a blend of Cognitive Behavioral, Gestalt Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused, Narrative Therapy, and Psycho-Education with individuals. Individuals who have the motivation to improve and courage to seek growth through vulnerability and hard work can accomplish all the goals they desire. My approach assumes that the client is the expert in their own lives and my main role is to help clients understand themselves more deeply.
Robyn McGee, LCSW, AA, BA, ASDCS
Meet Robyn:
I am a certified School Social Worker in the state of New York, where I specialize in transitioning students with disabilities and their families into the world of adult service provision, assisting them as they navigate the intricacies of agencies of oversight and the difficult emotions that accompany the process.
Throughout a lengthy career in the helping professions, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in all phases of life from ages 3 to 93. I want to help you harness the power that you may not realize you possess in order to recognize and overcome any obstacle that you may face. My research carefully tailors my approach with every client to the most effective treatment modality that suits their individual needs, and I will always share my giant smile.
Christine Lawrence, LMSW, BA, Certified Life Coach
Meet Christine:
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Social Worker with four years of experience in providing comprehensive support to diverse populations. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Stony Brook University and with a Master’s degree in social work from Adelphi University. I also hold a life coach certification. I specialize in working with children and young adolescents. Genie Portillo, LCSW-R, LCDC, CCTP, EMDR-trained Therapist, CCTHP has been my supervisor for over four years and in that time I have gained substantial experience in clinical work. I have gained expertise in conducting individual, group, and family therapy sessions using a variety of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). While working with my clients, I focus on goal setting, creating healthy routines, career focusing, developmental milestones, anxiety, and depression.
My therapeutic style is compassionate and caring, taking into consideration each and every client while building rapport and establishing a trusting environment. Committed to promoting mental health and well-being through evidence-based practices and client-centered care.
Joanne Spataro, MA, LMSW
Meet Joanne:
Let’s pursue positive life change through therapy. Finding your path to healing can feel like an impossible task, but you do not need to travel this journey alone. My therapeutic style is congenial, compassionate, and collaborative. I am focused on helping people live a life of authenticity and acceptance. I am deeply committed to providing what is emotionally needed so each person can maximize their potential and reach their personal goals.
My degrees are in Nursing from Suffolk Community College, a Bachelor's degree in Human Services from St. Joseph's College and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University. Additional certifications are in Health Coaching from the Health Coach Institute, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Disaster Mental Health and Trauma-Informed Yoga and Meditation. In addition to inpatient addiction treatment experience I have been working in this office for the past six years coaching and guiding clients on their path to being the best version of themselves, mind and body.
Utilizing a collaborative, person-centered and trauma responsive approach, I incorporate integrative and evidence-based therapies that are tailored to meet your individual unique needs. I integrate therapeutic interventions including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, DBT skills, mindfulness, motivational, relapse prevention, and other evidence-based approaches. Through your therapeutic journey you’ll learn to identify and embrace strengths, integrate new skills, gain self-understanding, and come into a deeper understanding of yourself and others.
If you are experiencing anxiety, panic, unwanted intrusive thoughts, depression, memories of difficult experiences, relationship problems, loneliness, low self-esteem, addiction recovery, or other emotional or behavioral challenges, you do not have to suffer in silence. These are conditions with clinically verified treatment methods. While it may be hard to make that first call, remember, you do not have to suffer alone in silence. Therapy works and I am here to help you.
Misty Malady, LCDC, MA, Certified Life Coach
Meet Misty:
I am a certified life coach specializing in goal setting, establishing life skills, and cultivating a self-awareness to facilitate a fulfilling life. I have a Master’s Degree in Criminology and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Houston Clear Lake. I have over thirteen years of work experience within the legal field in both criminal and family law. My expertise centers around family dynamics, relationship issues, and guiding individuals through transitional events in their lives. I have an extensive background in working with people of diverse values, cultures, and economic status.
Alexandra Small, BA, Certified Life Coach
Meet Alexandra:
I graduated from Pace University with my Bachelor’s in Psychology and I am a certified life coach. I have experience working with adolescents and teenagers in a school setting and coaching people of all ages. I specialize in working with clients who are seeking to achieve goals, to gain self-confidence, and to attain fulfillment in all aspects of their life. My research in social media, sports, and student behavior influence my approach with each client to support their needs and encourage their growth.
Kyle Lynch, LP-MHC
Meet Kyle:
I have a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling and am registered with NY State as a Limited Permit Mental Health Counselor. My focus is on anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and daily life stressors. I will help you determine your therapeutic goals and guide you towards those goals, in a way that feels the most natural. I use a solution-focused approach, where we will explore your strengths and positive solutions to reach your therapeutic goals. As a Reiki Practitioner, I strive to keep the energy of the room light, non-judgmental, and open for clients to express themselves fully.
I would love to connect. Please contact me so we can explore ways to a more fulfilling life.
Dr. Jo Anne Durovich, PhD, LMSW
Meet Jo Anne:
I am a licensed social worker and Director of the Social Work program at St. Joseph’s University in Patchogue, New York. I have earned both an MSW and Ph.D. in Social Work and have spent nearly 25 years working with individuals, families and communities throughout Long Island. I believe in empowering people to reach their goals by meeting them where they are and working collaboratively toward growth and healing. Throughout my tenure in the non-profit and academic sectors, I have also been responsible for staff development and mentoring as well as extensive program evaluation in a variety of settings. I have been honored by the Long Island Business Institute as a “40 Under 40” distinguished business professional for leadership and mentoring in the nonprofit sector and by the Long Island Business News as a featured faculty person in “Who’s Who in Education.” I have also been the recipient of the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless “Key of Excellence Award” for my contributions to the homeless service community and homeless people throughout Long Island.
Megan Lohmann, LMSW, Certified Life Coach
Meet Megan:
I am a graduate from St. Joseph's University and was a member of the MSW program's first cohort. I am a licensed social worker (LMSW), as well as a certified Life Coach. I blend compassionate counseling with transformative coaching to empower individuals on their journey to healing and growth, focusing on increasing self-esteem and personal growth. My specialization lies predominantly in children, adolescents, and those emerging into adulthood. With a client-centered approach, I tailor each session to meet your unique needs, whether you're navigating personal challenges, relationships, or any of life's various transitions. I believe in the power of collaboration and strive to empower my clients to discover their strengths and build resilience. By combining evidence-based therapy techniques with practical coaching strategies, I support clients in achieving greater self-awareness, emotional well-being, and life satisfaction.
Beth Moldashel, BS, MS, MHC Intern
Meet Beth
I am a post-graduate mental health counselor intern and a NYS certified school counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, families, and people with disabilities, in a diverse community. I graduated from SUNY Albany with a Bachelor of Science in psychology, earned my Master of Science in School Counseling, and am currently completing a post-Master’s program to become a NYS licensed mental health counselor. For over 35 years, I have been a staunch advocate for people with disabilities, especially families, both as a parent and as a professional.
Olivia Cassara, BS, Certified Life Coach
Olivia Cassara, BS, Certified Life Coach
Olivia Cassara, BS, Certified Life Coach
Olivia Cassara, BS, Certified Life Coach
Olivia Cassara, BS, Certified Life Coach
Meet Olivia:
I graduated from High Point University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. I am currently continuing my education to pursue a Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have a passion for and experience working with children in a variety of settings, which I have enjoyed over the past few years. Such settings include bereavement meetings and bereavement summer camps, as well as in a school social work setting. I believe each setting will assist in broadening my knowledge and ultimately provide myself with a well-rounded background in the field to effectively counsel my clientele. I had recently completed one practicum for my master’s program at a local middle school, and am currently working on my second practicum here at Turning Point Specialized Services, LLC, under the supervision of Genie Portillo, LCSW-R, LCDC, CCTP. EMDR-trained Therapist, CCTHP. While enrolled in this master’s program, I have also had the opportunity to obtain a life coach certification! Through a person-centered approach, I plan to support clients who seek to identify and build their strengths, and aid in motivating clients to their greatest potential, whether that is assisting with goal-setting or strengthening individualized skillsets!
Jessica Wiley, BA, Certified Crisis Counselor
Jessica Wiley, BA, Certified Crisis Counselor
Jessica Wiley, BA, Certified Crisis Counselor
Meet Jessica:
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Northern Kentucky University, and I am soon graduating with a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a specialization in trauma. I am a certified crisis counselor and have provided support to individuals with a wide range of mental health challenges. I am compassionate and empathetic ensuring that clients feel safe, understood, and supported during every step of their therapeutic journey.
I use trauma-informed, collaborative, client-centered, and evidence-based therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual client. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming emotions, struggling with anxiety or depression, experiencing relationship issues, or navigating life transitions, I work collaboratively with you to address the root causes of your pain, build on your strengths, and set goals. We will work together to provide you with the tools needed to overcome challenges, make meaningful changes, and get on the path of healing and personal growth.
Jessica Wiley, BA, Certified Crisis Counselor
Jessica Wiley, BA, Certified Crisis Counselor
