Parent Support Groups
MASK support groups are facilitated by professional therapists and meet weekly to help families with parenting, school and addiction.
Parents come together in a supportive environment to learn with and support each other.
To Join a group, Contact Mask
718-758-0400
Dr. Shmuel Brachfeld, Psyd
Dr. Shmuel Brachfeld, PsyD is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Lakewood, NJ. He specializes in treating trauma, addictions and chronic physical and mental illness, along with helping loved ones of those dealing with challenges cope. He works through an attachment focused perspective, helping clients develop a safe and secure way of managing themselves and the world around them.
Dr. Debbie Akerman, PhD, LCSW, CASAP
Dr. Debbie Akerman, PhD, LCSW, CASAP is a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience in private practice and teaching. Dr. Akerman specializes in addiction/recovery, trauma, and marriage and family work. Dr. Akerman has worked for over ten years in addiction in both the clinical an administrative realms. Dr. Akerman received her Master’s in Social Work from Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Yeshiva University and her doctorate in social welfare from Wurzweiler, Yeshiva University as well. Dr. Akerman’ s dissertation, “Build it and They Will Come” focused on the lack of outpatient addiction treatment facilities in the orthodox Jewish community. In addition to private practice, Dr. Akerman is a clinical assistant professor at Wurzweiler School of Social Work/Yeshiva University. Dr. Akerman is a public speaker educating and speaking to various communities and professionals via live presentations, radio programs and podcasts on addiction, trauma, resilience, cultural appropriate practice, stigma and bereavement. Dr. Akerman combines professional knowledge, and research along with rich Jewish text and Chassidic lore. Dr. Akerman’s clinical knowledge is accompanied by personal life experience that leave audiences moved, motivated and empowered.
Dr. Trish Attia
Bio and image coming soon
Rabbi Dr. Benzion Twerski, PHD
Dr. Benzion Twerski, holds a Ph.D. in psychology from University of Pittsburgh. He lives in Brooklyn where he consults to clients in private practice. He is active in shalom bayis (marital counseling) work and youth at risk, and has been affiliated with MASK since its inception, facilitating a weekly parenting support group. Dr. Twerski is teaching faculty at Twerski Coaching and Counseling Institute, training askanim, rabbonim, chosson and kallah teachers in their roles in guiding couples with issues in shalom bayis. He regularly interacts with batei din, dayanim, attorneys, and courts to help resolve conflicts to the benefit of both parties and their children. He consults to schools and mechanchim, and he is a resource for addiction treatment and referral. He is active in many community projects involving personal safety, chinuch, and family relationships.
To Join a group, Contact Mask
718-758-0400