Meet the Atlas Team

We bring different perspectives to the table and are united by a love for purposeful work, thoughtful connection, and real progress for every student

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Amanda Friedman

Founder & Executive Director

Amanda is the founder and executive director of the Atlas Foundation for Autism and a special education teacher with over 20 years of experience within the educational field. She is a SUNY New Paltz alumna and has completed the Administrative Certification Program from the College of Saint Rose/CITE. Amanda has worked with students of all ages 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 communities, sharing resources, support, and heart with our incredible students, families, and other community leaders. 

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Alex Rivera

Program Supervisor

Alex has been working with children & young adults with diverse developmental differences for over a decade. 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.

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Rodney Edwards

Program Supervisor

Rodney 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. 

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Erica Rahavy

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.

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Matthew Cohen

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.

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Teresa Geisert

Finance Manager

Teresa attended Rutgers University and has served as Finance Manager at Atlas Foundation for Autism since 2023. She brings more than 20 years of diverse experience in finance and operations, including prior work as an analyst. She is proud to support the wonderful work being done at Atlas and it’s commitment to the students and families it serves.

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Laura Kielek

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. 

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Dolores Ruiz 

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. 

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Dr. Shelly Castillo

Occupational Therapist

Shelly is a bilingual (English/Spanish) occupational therapist with experience in pediatric care and neurological rehabilitation. She earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Boston University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Neuroscience from Rowan University. With experience in outpatient pediatric care, she has worked with children with developmental, neurological, and sensory challenges. Skilled in sensory integration, fine motor development, and self-care training, she ensures therapy sessions are both effective and engaging by taking a strengths-based, child-led approach. Shelly likes to design interventions that incorporate each child’s interests and motivations, fostering meaningful progress and functional growth. She values collaboration with educators, families, and support staff to ensure a positive and empowering experience for every child. Outside of work, Shelly enjoys traveling, reading, visiting cafes, and spending time outdoors hiking or biking. 

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Ana Cotton

Speech-Language Pathologist

Ana received her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Teachers College, Columbia University. Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, she is bilingual in Spanish and English. Ana is passionate about supporting students in developing functional communication skills that carry over into their daily lives. Ana works with students with a wide range of communication profiles including those with autism, language differences and disorders, social pragmatics, speech sound and motor speech challenges, and feeding. Ana values collaboration with families, teachers, and related service providers to ensure consistency across environments. She is committed to creating a warm and supportive space where students feel comfortable, confident, and motivated to communicate! 

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Justine Parrinello

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

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Rebecca Maccabee

Speech-Language Pathologist

Becca is a neurodiversity-affirming New York State-licensed speech-language pathologist. She received a bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders from SUNY New Paltz and a master's degree in Speech Language Pathology from Iona University. Additionally Becca 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). Becca has treated pediatric and adult populations with autism spectrum disorders in schools and outpatient settings. She believes in a total communication approach and enjoys collaborating with classroom staff and families to help her students reach their full potential.

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Laura Singer

School Counselor

Laura is a dedicated school counselor passionate about supporting and connecting with neurodiverse students. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Sciences and Psychology from Florida State University, and her Masters in International School Counseling from The College of New Jersey. Based in Brooklyn, Laura is committed to partnering with families and creating inclusive, supportive environments where all students can thrive.

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Michael Marsalis 

Lead Teacher

Michael 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 one of our teachers at Atlas and always looks forward to working with each of his students and the overall student body. 

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Lynn Azeez

Lead 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. 

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Rona Neman

Lead 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. 

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Taylor Nelson

Lead Teacher

Taylor is a college graduate who obtained a dual masters degree in both general and special 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. 

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Zoe Wiggins-Avital

Lead Teacher

Zoe is a proud teacher at Atlas. She grew up between Los Angeles, California and Bristol, England, and  moved to New York City to attend The New School in 2009. She has 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. She worked in District 75 for two years and am excited to continue helping neurodiverse students reach their full potential at Atlas. In her spare time, she loves to scuba dive, draw, paint, sculpt, make prints, read, cook, go to museums and take her dog Moose to the park.

Andrell Gabbidon is a dedicated educator with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Special Education, and over ten years of experience working with children with disabilities. He is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive, and engaging learning environments that meet the diverse needs of his students. Andrell is committed to fostering each child’s academic growth, independence, and social-emotional development through patience, compassion, and individualized instruction.

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Andrell Gabbidon

Lead Teacher
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Rory Tiesler 

Lead Teacher

Rory is an enthusiastic teacher who enjoys building strong connections with students and creating a classroom where learning feels safe, fun, and engaging. Rory earned a Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education from Pace University and has two years of classroom teaching experience. Rory is dedicated to meeting students where they are and helping them grow with confidence.

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Rey Rivera

Skills & Recreational Instructor

Rey Rivera has over 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

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Ariel lives in Yonkers, NY, in Westchester, and attended and graduated high school there. He is outgoing, upbeat, funny, and he loves working with children. He has worked with children from a young age, from teaching martial arts to sports, then academics, social skills, coping skills, and life skills. 

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Jesse Lewis

Jesse is an artist and teacher from Stamford, CT, home of the World Wrestling Federation. He blends surreal imagination, pop art vibrancy, and playful dada whimsy in every piece he creates. As a teacher, he uses that same creative spark to guide students through art, music, and theater, celebrating individuality, growth, and self-expression. In his studio and classroom, each brushstroke, note, and movement invites students to explore their own creativity and unique voice.

Art Director

Daniel Pierre-Pierre

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Technology Coordinator

Daniel has worked with children of different backgrounds for over 10 years, and it has been an ever-rewarding and ever-challenging experience. Between a bachelor's in speech-language pathology, a Master's in Psychology, his education, his own life experience, he has seen the need to be a pillar of strength and advocacy for children, especially in this community. He believes that with the support and guidance of others, anyone is capable of achieving success. His love for working with children is apparent in bringing his experience to Atlas and to be an individual who supports others to be their best, both in education and in his role of managing and maintaining the technological aspects of our school, including the organizational structure of the school, the various devices and applications needed on a daily basis and continuous learning of new and relevant learning technologies to help grow his own knowledge base and those of his peers & students.

Janay has worked in the early childhood field for 14 years and has been working with special needs children for the last 2 years. Working with children is something she greatly enjoys doing. She also enjoys listening to music, being outdoors, and spending time with her two children. She plans on expanding her education in special education.

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Janay Levy

Academic Lead Teacher & Educational Instructor

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Ty Thompson 

Educational Instructor

Ty 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 dedicated professional and a collaborative team member who is passionate about his students and consistently seeks excellence in all his endeavors. His hobbies include writing, music appreciation, sports card collecting and gaming. 

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Junisa Carr

Educational Instructor

Junisa is a native Harlemite, a New Yorker, and received a Bachelor's Degree in child development from Empire State College. She worked with children since she was 13 years of age and teaching has been her passion. Her passion extends to working with all types of learners. To Junisa, helping each child progress in all areas of their development—academic, social, language, and motor—is a challenge that she chooses daily. She strives to create a community of learners that nurtures this growth in a positive, fun environment.

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Alison Barnwell

Educational Instructor

Alison discovered Atlas through her ongoing respite work. She came to love the school during morning drop-offs that immersed her in classrooms full of joy, acceptance and loving care. This is her dream job, and she's passionate about the field, working with multiple families as a direct support professional after school and on weekends. Alison holds a Master of Arts in English from Tulane, where her writing won her Best Graduate Essay. Throughout her experience, she's been known for her brilliant work in the arts and comics.

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Donovan Persaud

Educational Instructor

Donovan 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 to assisting students and people in the community. As a special education instructor and case manager, he is persistent and 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 community

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Crystal-Joy Cuffe

           Educational Instructor

Crystal-Joy graduated from Queens College with a Bachelor's in psychology and excelled in a practicum called Student in Practicum: Intervention for Children with Autism and their Families. She has worked as a Level Three Teacher Assistant and an after-school ABA therapist for eight years. She strives to keep students motivated about learning new things and enjoys having students learn new subjects and reinforcing their pursuit of knowledge in ways that works best for them.

Jay is a devoted father to a wonderful young lady. He studied at Monroe and then later graduated from ABI. He spent most of my years dedicated to the craft of barbering. Ironically, it started here in this building 22 years ago. Life often leads individuals back to the same place where the magic begins. His vision has never been any clearer!!!! Today, alongside delegating for an equal opportunity and advocating for kids with special needs, he helps encourage, engage, and empower their minds to help strengthen independence.

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Julises Guzman

  Educational Instructor
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Alex Dejesus

Educational Instructor

Alex is a native New Yorker with a strong passion for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in their growth and development. He possesses over 10 years of experience working with both children and adults in this field.

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Pedro Almeida

Educational Instructor

Pedro brings extensive experience in community welfare, with a focus on supporting autistic individuals. Over the course of 6+ years, he has dedicated himself to making a positive impact on the lives of the people in need. In addition to my professional journey, He has actively volunteered in various social programs, further solidifying my commitment to community welfare. He's excited to merge my skills and passion, contributing to the school's shared mission of enhancing the well-being of people, and learn with everyone.

Earl Torres Jr.

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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 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. 

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Olivia Salker

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. 

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James Vaccarelli

Educational Instructor

James received a B.A. in Sociology from St. Francis College. After graduation, he began working with children with special needs. During this time, he had worked toward becoming a NYS Certified Teaching Assistant. James is excited to continue supporting all different types of learners! He enjoys helping students achieve their goals and reach their full potential. Becoming a part of a student’s educational and developmental journey is incredibly rewarding!

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Robert Sanchez

 Educational Instructor

Robert Sanchez is a Native New Yorker, born and raised in the Bronx. He has a degree from John Jay College and has worked with people for special needs for several years. Robert has experience working in ABA, DIR Floortime, and STAR learning programs and has experience working with students  eagerly helping them learn both practical and life skills.  As an empathetic and compassionate individual he works to improve the lives of others and is continuing to improve his own skills to accomplish this. Moving forward, Robert strives to help and support as much as possible for those in need!

Buppha Laurore

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    Educational Instructor

Originally from Thailand, Buppha now calls Jersey City home. Her professional background includes 18+ years of experience working in the field of education. She holds a Child Development Associate and RBT certifications. Her teaching philosophy centers on fostering a growth mindset, using love and understanding along with hands-on activities. Buppha is passionate about creating a fun and supportive environment for all students. Outside of work, Buppha enjoys spending time with my family, traveling, reading, cooking, and biking.

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Nigel Armstrong

Educational Instructor

Bio currently in construction

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Kelani Marie

   Educational Instructor

Kelani Marie is from Southern California and moved to the East Coast by solo driving across the country! Kelani has 10+ years working in Special Education and Early Childhood Education. Her inspiration for this field of work is her late mother Nancy, who poured compassion, patience and love into her work as an Educational Instructor. Kelani carries this with her everyday and plans to further her education by going back to school for Social Work and Behavioral Health. In her free time, Kelani loves to sing, be creative in any way and spend time with her friends and family.

               Educational Instructor

Noam Schuldenrein

My name is Noam. I live in Riverdale, NY. As a person with Autism Spectrum Disorder myself, I live to help people who are in need. I truly believe that everyone deserves a chance to be their true amazing self and I am very excited to work here. My hobbies include traveling, reading, taking walks, and going to museums.

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William Lozada

     Educational Instructor

William was born in Puerto Rico and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. He moved to New York in 2008 and became an assistant counselor, a hallway monitor and a resident advisor in Fordham University. After this, he started working in this field since 2017, working in various group homes and residential schools. His lengthy experience led him to Atlas, which he always looks forward to bringing his experience and support to our students.