Mental Health and Wellness
At Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District (POB), we are committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of our students.
We offer a variety of resources, including counseling services, wellness programs, and helpful tools to assist students facing mental health challenges. Whether you need professional support, coping strategies, or simply someone to talk to, we are here to help.
Our goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where every student can thrive. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out.
Together, we can prioritize mental wellness at POB.
Click here to learn about the facts of 988 and Suicide & Crises (English)
Click here for a brochure about 988 and Suicide & Crises (English)
- *Mental Health Lunch and Learn for Parents/Guardians
- 988 Resources | Suicide & Crises
- Support and Counseling Staff
- Emotional Skills Building For Parents/Guardians
- Mental Health Resources
- Recommended Reading
- Recommended Websites
- Northwell Mental Health Partnership
- Workshops
*Mental Health Lunch and Learn for Parents/Guardians
We invite you to join us for a Mental Health Lunch & Learn, a special opportunity to gain valuable insights and strategies to support your child’s well-being hosted by POB School Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Psychologist Dr. Jessica Macklin.
What to Expect:
✔ Expert-Led Discussion – Learn from mental health professionals about key topics such as stress management, resilience, and emotional well-being.
✔ Practical Strategies – Discover ways to support your child’s mental health at home and in school.
✔ Q&A Session – Ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations.
✔ Community Connection – Connect with other parents and guardians who share similar concerns and experiences.
We understand the importance of mental health in a child’s academic and personal growth. Let’s work together to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all students.
988 Resources | Suicide & Crises
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is here to provide immediate support for individuals facing mental health crises. Available 24/7, the 988 helpline connects you to trained counselors who can offer guidance, crisis intervention, and resources for mental health and emotional support. Whether you are experiencing overwhelming stress, anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm, 988 is a confidential and accessible resource for anyone in need of help.
In addition to the helpline, we encourage you to explore other local mental health resources that are part of the 988 initiative, including community programs, counseling services, and support networks. Remember, you don’t have to face it alone—988 is here to help you, anytime, anywhere.
Click here to learn about the facts of 988 and Suicide & Crises (English)
Click here for a brochure about 988 and Suicide & Crises (English)
Support and Counseling Staff
At POB, our dedicated support and counseling staff are here to assist students with a variety of mental health and wellness challenges. We understand that being a student comes with its own set of pressures, and whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or simply feeling overwhelmed, our team is committed to providing the guidance and support you need.
We offer a safe, confidential space where you can talk about what's going on and receive the help you deserve. You don't have to face these challenges alone—our compassionate staff is here for you every step of the way. Reach out today for the support you need to thrive.
JFK
John F. Kennedy High School Support and Counselor Staff
Ms. Gina McGarry
Social Worker
Phone: (516) 434-3216
Schedule an Appointment
Ms. Melissa Rudes
Social Worker
Phone: (516) 434-3213
Ms. Tina Sirignano
Psychologist & District CPSE Chairperson
Phone: (516) 434-3314
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Jessica Macklin
Psychologist and Out of
District Chairperson
Phone: (516) 434-3323
Dr. Maria Xydas
Psychologist
Phone: (516) 434-3217
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Alyssa Feld
Psychologist
Phone: (516) 434-3150
Schedule an Appointment
Ms. Jessica Baker
School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3150
Schedule an Appointment
Mr. Daniel Jarmon
School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3161
Schedule an Appointment
Mr. Domenick DiDomenico
School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3150
Schedule an Appointment
Ms. Danielle Goodwin
School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3162
Schedule an Appointment
Ms. Sara Egosi
School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3150
Schedule an Appointment
Ms. Cristina Rivas-Laline
School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3157
Schedule an Appointment
Mr. Joseph Izzo
School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3150
Schedule an Appointment
Ms. Jennifer Siegel
School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3164
Schedule an Appointment
Mattlin
Howard B. Mattlin Middle School Support and Counselor Staff
Dr. Joseph Morris
Psychologist
Phone: (516) 434-3377
Ms. Aviva Sala
Social Worker
Phone: (516) 434-3377
Dr. Jessica Macklin
Psychologist and Out of
District Chairperson
Phone: (516) 434-3323
Mrs. Stephanie Ralton
Grade 5 School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3272
Mr. David Goldberg
Grade 6 School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3272
Mrs. Andrea Luzzi
Grade 7 School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3272
Ms. Cathryn Riley
Grade 8 School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3272
POBMS
Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School Support and Counseling Staff
Dr. Angela Trapani
Psychologist
Phone: (516) 434-3328
Ms. Lisa Bernstein
Social Worker
Phone: (516) 434-3288
Dr. Jessica Macklin
Psychologist and Out of
District Chairperson
Phone: (516) 434-3323
Ms. Laura Ok
Grade 5 School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3319
Ms. Irene Petrsoric
Grade 6 School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3319
Ms. Valerie Zaffers
Grade 7 School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3319
Ms. Barbara Rusnack
Grade 8 School Counselor
Phone: (516) 434-3319
JJP
Judy Jacobs-Parkway Elementary School Support and Counselor Staff
Ms. Nicolette Lodato
Elementary School Counselor
Judy Jacobs-Parkway Days 1, 3, 5
Old Bethpage Days 2, 4, 6
Phone: (516) 434-3370
Dr. Jessica Macklin
Psychologist and Out of
District Chairperson
Phone: (516) 434-3323
Mr. Shawn Ulahannan
Psychologist
Judy Jacobs-Parkway ES
Phone: (516) 434-3364
Ms. Cindy Dempsey
Social Worker
Judy Jacobs-Parkway ES - Days 2, 4, 6
Old Bethpage ES - Days 1, 3, 5
Phone: (516) 434-3366
Ms. Amie Caulfield
Social Worker
Judy Jacobs-Parkway ES- Days 2, 4, 6
Pasadena ES - Days 1, 3, 5
Phone: (516) 434-3395
Old Bethpage
Old Bethpage Elementary Support and Counseling Staff
Ms. Cindy Dempsey
Social Worker
Judy Jacobs-Parkway ES - Days 2, 4, 6
Old Bethpage ES - Days 1, 3, 5
Phone: (516) 434-3366
Ms. Chelsea Kramer
Psychologist
Old Bethpage ES
Phone: (516) 434-4771
Dr. Jessica Macklin
Psychologist and Out of
District Chairperson
Phone: (516) 434-3323
Pasadena
Pasadena Elementary School Support and Counseling Staff
Ms. Amie Caulfield
Social Worker
Judy Jacobs-Parkway ES- Days 2, 4, 6
Pasadena ES - Days 1, 3, 5
Phone: (516) 434-3395
Dr. Theresa Campisi
Psychologist
Pasadena ES - Days 2, 4, 6
Phone: (516) 434-3455
Stratford ES - Days 1, 3, 5
Phone: (516) 434-3482
Dr. Jessica Macklin
Psychologist and Out of
District Chairperson
Phone: (516) 434-3323
Stratford
Stratford Road Elementary School Support and Counseling Staff
Dr. Stefani Coulton
Psychologist
Stratford Road ES
Phone: (516) 434-3393
Dr. Jillian D'Aguanno
Psychologist
Phone: (516) 434-3020
Dr. Theresa Campisi
Psychologist
Pasadena ES - Days 2, 4, 6
Phone: (516) 434-3455
Stratford ES - Days 1, 3, 5
Phone: (516) 434-3482
Dr. Jessica Macklin
Psychologist and Out of
District Chairperson
Phone: (516) 434-3323
Emotional Skills Building For Parents/Guardians
Welcome, POB Parents and Guardians!
We’re so glad to have you here at the Emotional Skills Building for Parents and Guardians web page. These resources have been designed to provide you with valuable tools and support as you navigate the journey of fostering emotional intelligence in both yourself and your child. We believe that by strengthening emotional skills, we can create stronger, more compassionate family connections. As we build this section, explore the various articles, videos, and activities tailored to help you thrive in this important role. Thank you for your commitment to growing and learning with us!
Access the Emotional Skills Building for Parents Workshop Video-2/26/25
Mental Health Resources
At POB, we are committed to the mental health and well-being of all our students and staff. Our comprehensive Mental Health & Wellness Resources are designed to provide the support, guidance, and tools needed to navigate life's challenges and promote overall emotional health. We offer a range of resources, including counseling services, wellness programs, and peer support opportunities, all aimed at fostering a healthy, supportive community.
From stress management and coping strategies to professional counseling and wellness workshops, POB is here to help you prioritize your mental and emotional health. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, academic stress, or personal challenges, our resources are available to support you every step of the way.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to our team. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier POB community.
- MHANYS (Mental Health Association in New York State)
- From the Mental Health Association Topic Guide from A to Z
- Click here to access topic-specific resources
- Mental Health Tools and Resopources
- Click here to access various topics such as....
- Behavior Management
- CBT Tools for Anxiety
- CBT Tools For Sadness/Depression
- Coping Skills for Emotion Regulation
- Coping in Hard Times
- Click here to access various topics such as....
Recommended Reading
The Anxious Generation:
How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness is a 2024 book by Jonathan Haidt which argues that the spread of smartphones, social media and overprotective parenting have led to a "rewiring" of childhood and a rise in mental illness.
Recommended Websites
We recommend exploring these trusted mental health and wellness websites for helpful tools, guidance, and support. Whether you're looking for coping strategies, professional resources, or ways to improve your well-being, these sites offer valuable information to support your mental health journey. Take the first step toward feeling better today!
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Click here to access
- National Institute of Mental health
- Click here to access
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- Click here to access
- Anxiety & Depression Association of America
- Click here to access
- Eating Disorder Support Groups
- Click here to access
- Age-based reviews and ratings of movies, apps and more
- Click here to access
- Help for parents to teach healthy tech-use to children
- Click here to access
- Fostering independence in children
- Click here to access
- Child Mind Institute-ADHD and Attention Resources
- Click here to access
- School Refusal - How to help kids cope
- Click here to access
Northwell Mental Health Partnership
The Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District - Northwell Health partnership was developed in response to the increasing mental health needs experienced by children and adolescents today. In order to help support our students, the Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District established our partnership with Northwell Health to provide K-12 school-based mental health services.
Services Offered
- Psychiatric Evaluations
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One day a week, throughout the school year, a psychiatrist from Northwell Health visits our school buildings to conduct psychiatric evaluations. The MD will meet with and sometimes observe the student in school for the first hour. The second hour will be spent with the parents gathering information and discussing recommendations. A full report will be provided to the district within 1-2 weeks following the evaluation and then will be sent to the family.
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Connection to Treatment/CARE
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If you are looking for a therapist, psychiatrist, therapy group, or any other therapeutic support, you can be connected through this service. There are two options:
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Treatment through the Northwell South Oaks Outpatient Clinic (COBS)
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Care Coordination - the Care Coordinator will reach out to you to find out your insurance and your needs and work on finding you a provider in the community who meets your needs.
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- North Well Resiliency Toolkit: A Digital Resource Hub
Please access the Northwell Resource Hub Here
Workshops
At POB, we believe in the importance of mental health and wellness for all students and staff. Our Mental Health & Wellness PAS (Peer Assistance and Support) Workshops provide a supportive environment where individuals can learn valuable coping strategies, stress management techniques, and how to maintain a balanced, healthy mindset. These workshops are designed to empower participants with the skills and resources needed to navigate mental health challenges and promote overall well-being. Whether you’re seeking personal support or looking to help others, our PAS workshops are here to guide you. Join us to build resilience, enhance self-care, and foster a supportive community at POB.
- Northwell Health Youtube Channel
- Click here to view this workshop
- Click here to view this workshop
- School Mental Health Resource Training Center
- Click here to view a workshop from the Family Education Webinar Series
- Click here to view a workshop from the Family Education Webinar Series
- Mental Health Workshops
- Click here to view various Workshops on multiple topics
- Understanding Anxiety and Helping Your Children Cope
- Social Media and Mental Health
- Managing Worries During a Worrisome Time
- Helping Adolescents Cope with Anxiety and School Avoidance
- Click here to view various Workshops on multiple topics