Amanda Friedman, MSEd, SBL

Executive Director


Featured Articles By or About Amanda

Amanda is the founder and Executive Director of the Atlas Foundation for Autism and a special education teacher with over 18 years experience within the educational field. She is a SUNY New Paltz alumni and has completed the Administrative Certification Program from the College of Saint Rose/CITE. Amanda has worked with students ranging in age from 3 – 25 years old with an array of differences including Autism, Cognitive Delays, Emotional Disturbances (PTSD, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, etc.) and other learning and developmental challenges. Prior to Atlas, Amanda had co-founded and run the Emerge & See Education Center polishing the framework for the integrative model that now is the baseline for the Atlas' program philosophy. Amanda has been through certified trainings in ABA, TEACCH, BART, and multiple trainings in DIR/Floortime. She is proud to act as a liaison within the NY ASD and special ed community sharing resources, support, and heart with our incredible students, families, and other community leaders.

Alex Rivera,

Program Supervisor & Educational Instructor

Alex has been working with children & young adults with diverse developmental differences for over 3 years now.He is a certified CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention)instructor. Alex truly respects the neurodiversity of the individuals he works with and hopes to be a driving force in bringing about more acceptance and positive change to our community.

Matthew Cohen, MA, EDTC

Office Administrator

Matthew is a native New Yorker and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brandeis University and a Master of Arts degree in Educational Theatre in Colleges and Communities from NYU Steinhardt. Matthew has worked in various offices in an administrative capacity for over a decade. The combination of his office experience and his background in education makes Atlas an ideal setting! While not at Atlas, Matthew can be seen on stage as a professional actor and singer.

Erica Rahavy, MS

School Director

A member of the Atlas community since 2015, Erica is proud to serve as Atlas’ School Director. With over 20 years of experience working with children with special needs in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric, BOCES, and non-public schools, Erica has a long history of helping students and families through investing in relationships. Erica received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Boston University, and her Masters in School Psychology from Rochester Institute of Technology. In addition to her certification as a School Psychologist, Erica became a certified RDI Consultant in 2009, and has also received certification in Strategies for Crisis Intervention and Prevention, Cornell University's Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, and clinical training in administration of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale (ADOS). Erica has presented at the Annual Relationship Development Intervention Conference, for the New York Association for Applied Behavior Analysis, and the Keyspan Lecture Series. One of Erica's most humbling positions is as the mother of two growing boys.

Laura Kielek, M.S., OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Laura received her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Springfield College and her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology from Roanoke College. She has worked with children between the ages of 18 months and 23 years old with various diagnoses including autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, Prader-Willi syndrome, cerebral palsy, and heart conditions. She is dedicated to providing an individualized, holistic approach when helping each child enhance their occupational performance in their school setting and other everyday environments. She also believes in the importance of promoting the carryover of skills and techniques by effectively communicating with other disciplines and families. Laura enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Dolores Ruiz, COTA/L

Occupational Therapist

Dolores received her Associates of Applied Science Degree from Mercy College, graduating from the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, followed by her Bachelor’s in Science. She has worked in the pediatric field for over 15+ years, as well as worked with the adult and geriatric populations. Dolores has a passion for helping children be able to participate in everyday activities. She continues to broaden her knowledge on various topics and diagnosis through continuing education classes including; sensory integration/processing, implementing play based therapy, an introduction to DIR/Floortime as well as strategies for various behaviors. Dolores’ interests are working with kids of all ages on their fine, visual motor, and executive functioning skills to increase success within their school and community settings, as well as provide ADL training. Additionally, Dolores collaborates with teachers as well as related service providers, in an effort to positively impact the students' achievements for optimal success and performance throughout the day.

Justine Parrinello, M.S., CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Justine Parrinello received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders at Queens College. She received her master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from Long Island University Brooklyn Campus. She is a New York State licensed Speech-Language Pathologist and holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from ASHA as well as a professional certificate as a Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD).

Over the past 7 years, Justine has had the opportunity to professionally work with children 0-21 with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Developmental Delays, Feeding/Oral Motor Disorders, Apraxia, Hearing Impairments, Fluency Disorders, Medically Fragile Children, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Cognitive Delays, Receptive & Expressive Language Impairments, Pragmatic Language Deficits, Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. and Articulation/Phonological Disorders.

Justine is passionate and excited about working with all her students to reach their highest potential and communicate in the most functional and effective manner possible!

Ana Cotton,

Speech Language Pathologist

Ana graduated from Teachers College, Columbia University, with a Master’s degree in speech-language pathology and is currently completing her clinical fellowship year. She was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina and is fluent in both Spanish and English. She is passionate about working with the autism population and dedicated to helping her students meet their communication, social, and behavioral goals. She values the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where her students feel empowered and confident.

Laura Singer,

School Counselor

I’m Laura, and I recently joined the Atlas family as the new school counselor! I received my bachelor's degree in Psychology and Family Child Science from Florida State University and my master's degree in International School Counseling from The College of New Jersey. My first job after graduation was a behavior therapist, and I immediately decided I wanted to dedicate my career to advocating for populations that need it most! I spent the past decade moving around the globe and helping children with various needs and am ready to plant my roots in New York! I’m a lover of nature, all animals and coffee. I love teaching mental health vocabulary and utilizing a strength-based approach to encourage all students to meet their highest potential.

Michael D. Marsalis

Teacher

Michael D. Marsalis holds both a BA in Philosophy and a MSEd in Early Childhood Special Education from Hofstra University. Mr. Marsalis has a combined total of more than 20 years of professional experience in teaching/social services. He also is a co -author of research that was published in the book entitled, Person- Centered Planning Research Practice and Future Directions, by Steve Holburn and Peter M.Vietze. Mr. Marsalis is new Teacher at Atlas and looks forward to working in the school.

Lynn Azeez,

Teacher

Lynn received her bachelor's degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from Long Island University C.W Post. She is currently working on obtaining her master's in Special Education. She has been working with children with special needs for the past 5 years as a Teacher's Assistant and an ABA Therapist.

Taylor Nelson

Teacher

Taylor is a college graduate from University at Buffalo with a bachelors degree in Education. She has worked with children of all ages and volunteered at many different organizations since the beginning of her high school career. She loves working with children and hopes to pursue a masters degree in special education. She is very excited about working at Atlas and hopes to gain more experience as the years go by.

Rona Neman

Teacher

Rona received a bachelor's degree in English literature from Binghamton University in 2018. She worked as a substitute teacher and a student teacher at the local school district with students in a multitude of grade levels within both general and special education. After graduating, she moved on to teach in Dwight School's Early Childhood Division, alongside working towards a master's degree in adolescent English education at Hunter College. She has a genuine passion for teaching and providing children the best possible environment to suit their individual needs, educational and otherwise. Her hobbies include painting, watching sunsets, writing, learning, exploring new places, and spending time with loved ones.

Zoe Wiggins

Teacher

Hi! My name is Zoe Wiggins and I am a teacher at Atlas. I grew up between Los Angeles, California and Bristol, England, and I moved to New York City to attend The New School in 2009. I have been working with kids for over 10 years and became a special education teacher through the New York City Teaching Collaborative in 2020, earning my Masters of Science in Special Education in May 2022 from Pace University. I worked in District 75 for two years and am excited to continue helping neurodiverse students reach their full potential at Atlas. In my spare time I love to scuba dive, draw, paint, sculpt, make prints, read, cook, go to museums and take my dog Moose to the park.

Rey Rivera,

Skills/Recreation Instructor

Rey Rivera has 10 years’ experience working with special needs children and adults ages 5- 20. He has worked in multiple capacities in serving our young people. His experience includes designing music and art activities and providing teacher assistance, and behavioral support. His main focus is the music and art program. He comes with 20 years of experience of music production in Hip Hop, R&B, dance, and electronic music. He is also a very talented artist whose style is very diverse allowing each student to express themselves freely because he firmly believes that art and music should flow naturally and organically. He says “You cannot force open the petals of a flower. When the flower is ready it will open itself up to you.”

Ariel Solano

Fitness Instructor

My name is Ariel Solano. I’m live in Yonkers, NY in Weschester and attended and graduated high school there. I’m out going, upbeat, funny, and I love working with children. I’ve worked with children from a young age, from teaching martial arts to sports, then academics, social skills, coping skills and life skills.

Daniel Pierre-Pierre

Educational Instructor

I have worked with children of different backgrounds for several years and it has been an ever-rewarding and ever-challenging experience. Between a bachelors in speech language pathology, a masters in psychology my education and my own life experience, I have seen the need to being a pillar of strength and advocacy for children, especially in this community. I believe that with the support and guidance of others, anyone is capable of achieving success. I have a love for working with children and I look forward to bringing my experience to Atlas and to continue being an individual who supports others to be their best.

Rodney Edwards

Educational Instructor / Program Assistant

Rodney Edwards has a BFA in Media Arts and Art Education from the School of Visual Arts. He is a Brooklyn NYC native. Rodney has been working with children and young adults with special needs, for 15+ years. His background consists of a Juvenile Counselor, Special Education Substitute Teacher, Psychosocial Assistant, and Crisis/ Behavior Specialist. He is well versed in Conflict Mediation, Classroom Management , and Crisis Prevention Management. Rodney is a self-taught visual artist, who has had several Art Exhibitions in the NYC area. He continues to welcome all opportunities and to learn new strategies, in promoting a positive and cohesive learning environment.

Johanna Minaya

Educational Instructor

Johanna Minaya has been working with children for 13 years. While she was working towards her bachelor's degree in Speech Pathology (with a minor in Early Childhood Education), she worked as a teacher for infants and preschoolers, as well as in ABA therapy. She is just as passionate about teaching as she is about learning. She wants to bring her passion and dedication to her position as an Educational Instructor at Atlas, because she believes that every child can reach their fullest potential.

PJ Holaday

Educational Instructor

PJ has been bringing his inexhaustible enthusiasm for Music Education and Performance all over the Northeast for over a decade. From off-Broadway tours, to luxury cruise-liners to stages and classrooms near and far; he has played it all! PJ believes that music is for EVERYONE! Specializing in "Adaptive Music Instruction," a novel and expanding approach to Music Education/ Therapy, has given PJ the expertise and eclecticism to bring the importance of Arts Education to each and every student regardless of age, experience or neuro-typicality. PJ is so excited to bring the joy of music-making to the Atlas family!

Tyler Scher

Educational Instructor

My name is Tyler Scher and I'm excited to be a part of the Atlas team! I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a bachelors in psychology and also hold an RBT certification to practice ABA therapy. I look forward to pursuing a Master's in Education to further develop my capacity for teaching. As the oldest child of 4, I have always had a passion and presence in helping children to both navigate through life and to achieve their goals. Some of my hobbies include playing sports, listening to music, hanging out with friends, and going to the beach.

Junisa Carr

Educational Instructor

My name is Junisa Carr, I am from Harlem New York, received a Bachelor's Degree In child development from Empire State College. I worked with children since I was 13 years of age and teaching Is my passion.

I have a true passion for working with all types of learners !! Helping each child progress in all areas of their development—academic, social, language, and motor—is a challenge that I am honored to accept daily. I strive to create a community of learners that nurtures this growth in a positive, fun environment.

Ty Thompson

Educational Instructor

Ty Thompson is a native New Yorker living in Bergen County, New Jersey. A graduate of Virginia Union University, he is an educator with nineteen years experience in the field. His prior work history includes being a one-to-one, tutor, behaviorist, SAT test examiner, camp coordinator and SACC coordinator. He is also a published author of two works of fiction and a book of poetry. Ty is a consummate professional and team player who loves his students and strives for excellence in all endeavors. His hobbies include writing, music appreciation, sports card collecting and gaming.

Donovan Persaud

Educational Instructor

Donovan Persaud is an aspiring educator and a mental health professional. Born and raised in New Jersey, Donovan is a third generation Guyanese American whose parents immigrated from Guyana in the 1980s. With 8+ years of experience, Donovan dedicates his service in assisting students and people in the community. As a special education instructor and case manager he is persistent, compassionate and mentors others in a variety of ways to improve their lifestyle. Donovan continues to guide each generation of students and adults in achieving success for the future.

Bridget O’Donnell

Educational Instructor

Bridget O’Donnell was born in Connecticut and moved to New York for school and later received her Masters Degree in Psychology. She first started working with children in high school where she conducted an art summer school program. She began working with students of all ages with autism in 2021 and has loved every aspect of it. She enjoys combining both her love for art and passion for equal education.

Olivia Walker

Educational Instructor

Olivia graduated Queens College with a B.A in Psychology. She has most recently worked as an ABA Instructor and Direct Support Professional, helping people with various learning differences. When not at work, Olivia loves reading, traveling and playing video games. She is planning to continue schooling in the near future to get her Masters in Forensic Psychology.

Earl Torres

Educational Instructor

Earl Torres Junior has been working at the Atlas Foundation For Autism since 2015 but his humble beginnings can be traced back to his father Earl Torres Sr. Earls father was the head custodian at the school during this time and suggested to his son that he should come and work with him but he refused. Later, after giving it some thoughtful consideration, he decided to accept his dad's offer and the rest is history. Since then Earl Junior has gone from doing janitorial work to developing his skills as an Autism care giver with time in the Explorers classroom training observing and expanding his skills and knowledge base! He has become such an inspiration to so many and his father legacy and his team and Atlas family are so proud and grateful for all of his accomplishments.

Pedro Almeida

Educational Instructor

My name is Pedro, and I bring extensive experience in community welfare, with a focus on supporting autistic individuals. Over the course of 6+ years, I've dedicated myself to making a positive impact on the lives of people in need. In addition to my professional journey, I've actively volunteered in various social programs, further solidifying my commitment to community welfare. I'm excited to merge my skills and passion, contribute to the school's shared mission of enhancing the well-being of people, and learn with you all.