Who we are hero

New York Therapy
Who We Are

Complaint

Our Story

New York Therapy Placement Services, Inc. (NYTPS) was founded in 1986 by Barbara and Larry Johnston. Inspired by her sister’s experience with disabilities, Barbara’s passion for helping the special needs community led her to become an Occupational Therapist. She then established the company with a vision to reach as many families as possible, providing the therapies needed to help children achieve their fullest potential. Today, most of our team have been touched by disabilities in some way. This makes their passion that much more personal, adding an extra layer of care to each family we serve. 

As a New York City & Long Island-based agency, we appreciate the diversity and multiculturalism of the families we serve. We work diligently to meet the needs of our families by offering certified bilingual SLPs, bilingual providers, and evaluators. We have also partnered with an interpreting and translation services organization to best serve the culturally and linguistically diverse population.

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Our Story

NYTPS was founded in 1986. Barbara Johnston, an original founder and CEO, was inspired by her sister’s experience with disabilities, fueling her passion for supporting the special needs community. Driven by this mission, she established the company with her vision was to build a community of providers to provide essential therapies that empower children to reach their fullest potential. Barbara was later joined by her husband, Larry Johnston, and together they continue to lead the company forward. Many of our administrative staff have personally experienced the impact of developmental disabilities within their own families, deepening their dedication to our mission and adding an extra layer of care to every family we serve.

We are proud to offer a wide array of pediatric therapy services—in the field, at home, and in our clinics. Equally, we take great pride in our dedicated team of providers, whose expertise and compassion make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children and families we serve. As a New York City and Long Island-based agency, we embrace the diversity and multiculturalism of the families we serve and are committed to meeting the unique needs of our community. Our dedication to inclusivity ensures that every family receives the care and support they need.

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Our Mission

For over three decades, NYTPS has been a trusted partner in providing exceptional therapy services to our community. We are a comprehensive resource for families navigating the special needs journey, offering guidance and support as they face the unique challenges of their child’s development. Our specialized, collaborative approach, led by dedicated industry experts, focuses on the early identification and treatment of developmental delays and special needs.

We are committed to the success of the children we serve and the providers who join our team. We offer the attention, resources, and tools they need to thrive in their careers and deliver the highest quality speech, physical, occupational, and behavioral therapy services. Our mission is to empower children to develop the skills they need to succeed and reach their full potential, making us a company that both families and professionals can rely on.

In short, our goal is to make the process simple and provide the therapies needed to achieve progress and success.

Our Mission
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Services We Offer

Evaluation & Treatment / Services Offered
  • Speech Therapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)
  • Autism Services & Evaluations
  • Special Education Services (EI, SEIT/SEIS, & SETSS)
  • Social Skills Groups
  • Psychological / Educational Evaluations
  • Resource Room / Home Tutoring
  • Parent Training
  • Counseling Services
  • Vision Therapy
  • Assistive Technology
  • Certified Bilingual SLPs
  • Bilingual Translations & Interpretation Services
  • Life Skills Assessments & Transition Services

New York Therapy provides services in schools, daycares, homes, and facilities, as well as in the home setting for Early Intervention, CPSE & CSE Programs and ABA through insurance. We also offer therapies and groups at our state-of-the-art NYT Kids Pediatric Therapy Centers located in Port Jefferson & Farmingdale.

Our Early Intervention ABA Groups run year-round at our centers in Port Jefferson Station & Farmingdale.

Our services are funded through a variety of sources, ensuring that families have access to the care they need: 

  • NYS Department of Health (Early Intervention) 
  • Nassau & Suffolk Counties (Preschool Services) 
  • School Districts (Committees on Special Education) 
  • NYC Department of Education 
  • Insurance (most major insurance plans accepted) 

We work closely with these sources to ensure that each family can receive the therapies and support their child requires.

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Our Executive Team

Barbara Johnston

President & CEO

Larry Johnston

Larry Johnston

Vice President & Owner

John Johnson

John F. Johnson, MBA

Chief Operating Officer & Chief Compliance Officer

Lynne Kahn

Lynne Kahn, CPA

Chief Financial Officer

Elizabeth Atterole

Elizabeth Atterole, MS CCC-SLP/TSSLD-BE

Chief Clinical Officer

Shari McGee

Shari McGee, MBA

Chief Technology Officer

Executive Monica Nichols

Monica Nichols

Chief Strategy and Initiatives Officer

David Tellerman

David Tellerman, MA CCC-SLP, TSHH, SDA

Chief Business Development & Community Engagement Officer

Farrah Musicus, CPA

Chief Accounting Officer

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Our Team of Directors

Andrea Stuto

Andrea Stuto, SBL, SDL

Director of SEIT Services

Clare Burke, LMSW

Assistant Director of School Age Services

Dana Hall, MS, LBA, BCBA

Director of Behavioral Services

Donna Bernesser

Donna Bernesser

Director of School Age Services

George Lewis

George Lewis, MBA

Director of Preschool Services & Integrated Systems Operations

Kate Lieberman

Kate Lieberman, MS. Ed

Director of Non-Contract Services

Kristyn Sacrestano

Kristyn Sacrestano, Ed.D.

Director of Center-Based Programs

Lauren Scher

Director of Contracts and Risk Management

Meaghan Fidacaro-Lutz

Meaghan Fidacaro, MS. Ed

Director of Preschool Evaluations

Sonu Sanghoee

Sonu Sanghoee, M.S., CCC-SLP, TSSLD

Director of Early Intervention

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Barbara Johnston
President & CEO

Barbara has been a driving force behind New York Therapy Placement Services (NYTPS) since 1986, serving as a founding owner and visionary leader. An Occupational Therapist by training, Barbara has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children and families by developing innovative therapy programs and assembling a team of compassionate, highly qualified professionals, and administrators.    

Barbara co-founded NYTPS with a shared vision of providing exceptional therapy services. Over time, as the company evolved, she became the sole owner, guiding NYTPS into its next chapter with a steadfast commitment to excellence. Under her leadership, the company has expanded across multiple locations and programs, growing into a trusted name in the field. Her hands-on approach and unwavering dedication to quality have fostered a culture of innovation, ensuring NYTPS remains at the forefront of life-changing therapeutic support.

With a deep passion for the community she serves, Barbara has not only strengthened NYTPS but has also made a lasting impact on the therapy field, enriching the lives of countless children and their families.

Larry N. Johnston Jr.
Vice President & Owner

Since 1987 Larry has been a trusted advisor and behind the scenes partner to NYTPS, providing invaluable guidance and support that have helped shape the company’s growth and success. 

In 2022 Larry became Co-Owner of NYTPS.  He brings a unique blend of experience, dedication, and innovation to his role. With a distinguished 20-year career in the NYPD culminating in a promotion to Detective Specialist, Larry served in an elite specialized unit, earning numerous medals for bravery and accolades for his exceptional service and leadership. His ability to make strategic decisions under pressure has seamlessly translated into his contributions to the healthcare field.

As a skilled small business owner and hands-on leader, Larry has also spearheaded the design and construction of the company’s office and clinic spaces. His creativity and craftsmanship have transformed these environments into functional, inviting, and innovative spaces for both staff and clients. Notably, he has led the creation of sensory gyms, outdoor play areas, and therapeutic spaces that enhance NYTPS’s commitment to providing exceptional care.

With his diverse background and unwavering commitment, Larry is passionate about driving NYTPS forward, continuing to create impactful spaces and services that benefit the community.

John F. Johnson, MBA
Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer

John began his career in children’s services in 2009 and joined New York Therapy Placement Services in 2013. As Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, he drives the company’s operational strategies while ensuring adherence to legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations. Prior to transitioning to children’s services, John held roles with A.T. Kearney, providing board-level operations consulting to Fortune 500 companies. John holds an MBA in Strategic Management and Operations from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a BBA from the College of William and Mary in Virginia.

Lynne Kahn, CPA
Chief Financial Officer

Lynne has been an integral part of our company since 1992, bringing over three decades of financial expertise and leadership to the organization. She holds a Bachelor of Business in Accounting from Hofstra University. As a Certified Public Accountant, she began her career in public accounting before transitioning to the private sector, where she has been a driving force behind the company’s financial success and strategic growth. 

Lynne has served as a trusted partner to the owners, providing invaluable guidance through every stage of the company’s development. Her deep understanding of our operations, commitment to excellence, and steady leadership have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of our industry and fostering sustained growth.

Elizabeth Atterole, M.S. CCC-SLP/TSSLD-BE
Chief Clinical Officer

Elizabeth joined New York Therapy Placement Services in 2016 as a speech-language pathologist providing services to children.  She served as our Clinical Director of Related Services for several years and is now our Chief Clinical Officer.  She oversees clinical operations by providing leadership and mentorship ensuring excellence in service delivery. Elizabeth holds a BS in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from Long Island University, an MS in Speech-Language Pathology from New York Medical College, and an Advanced Certificate in Bilingual Speech-Language Pathology from Columbia University. With over 10 years of experience working across various settings, Elizabeth is dedicated to fostering collaboration among therapy disciplines for effective treatment outcomes.

Shari McGee, MBA
Chief Technology Officer

Shari joined NYTPS in 2004 and has grown within the organization, advancing from Placement Coordinator to IT Director to the current role of Chief Technology Officer.  She holds a bachelor’s degree in business from SUNY Oneonta and an MBA from Dowling College. Before NYTPS, she gained valuable experience as an Event Coordinator at Computer Associates, where she managed large-scale conferences. Shari is deeply committed to NYTPS’s mission and takes pride in leveraging technology to support the company’s growth and success.

Monica Nichols, B.A. Sociology
Chief Strategy and Initiatives Officer

Monica joined the company in 2012 and has held multiple roles, each rooted in advocacy, cross-departmental collaboration, and leadership by example. Throughout her tenure, she has been a driving force in fostering teamwork, championing initiatives that bridge departments, and serving as a role model within the organization.  She has been instrumental in driving the company’s initiatives forward and now serves as our Chief Strategy and Initiatives Officer.

In this role, Monica collaborates with all departments to ensure initiatives are executed efficiently and effectively, aligning with the company’s vision and goals. Before her tenure at New York Therapy, Monica served as the Director of Product Development for renowned brands such as Coach, Ann Taylor, and Donna Karan, where she managed the entire product lifecycle, ensuring quality and market relevance. Monica holds a BA from New York University and has furthered her education at Columbia Law School. As a mother of a son with autism, her passion for providing high-quality therapy fuels her commitment to the company’s mission every day.

David Tellerman, M.A., CCC/SLP, TSHH, SDA
Chief of Business Development and Community Engagement Officer

David joined New York Therapy Placement Services in 2013 and has held multiple roles including Director of Business Development Birth to 5. David currently serves as the Chief of Business Development and Community Engagement Officer focusing on developing a strategic vision that fosters growth and strengthens community partnerships. With a deep passion for expanding access to high-quality therapy services, David plays a pivotal role in forging new opportunities, cultivating relationships, and driving initiatives that align with NYTPS’s mission.

David holds a BS in Speech Communications from SUNY Oneonta, an MA in Speech-Language Pathology from New York University, and certification in School District Administration from SUNY Stony Brook. With 30 years of experience, David’s career spans roles in early intervention, preschool special education, and private practice.

Farrah Musicus, CPA
Chief Accounting Officer

Farrah joined NYTPS in 2023 as Chief Accounting Officer, bringing over 20 years of public accounting experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Binghamton University and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in New York State. Farrah’s expertise ensures the company’s financial health and compliance.

Andrea Stuto, SBL, SDL
Director of SEIT Services

Andrea joined New York Therapy Placement Services in 2012 as an Early Intervention and SEIT provider. She has since advanced through multiple roles including Community Outreach Coordinator and SEIT Supervisor. Now serving as Director of SEIT Services, Andrea develops policies and procedures to ensure excellence in service delivery and leads initiatives in professional development, parent engagement, and community partnerships. Andrea earned her bachelor’s degree in education from New York University, a master’s degree in Literacy from Long Island University, and school administration certifications from Stony Brook University. Her leadership style is characterized by collaboration and a strong focus on student success.

Clare Burke, LMSW
Assistant Director of School Age Services

Clare Burke, LMSW, joined New York Therapy in 2016 as a School Age Coordinator and has since held various roles, including Evaluations Placement Coordinator, Contract Specialist, and Recruitment Specialist. She has also contributed to marketing efforts, promoting NYTPS events, engaging with the community, and sharing service opportunities on social media. In 2024, she was promoted to Assistant Director of School Age Services, where she now plays a key role in business development, provider recruitment, operations management, and strengthening relationships with district partners and clinicians within the Long Island school-age division. Under the direction of School Age Director Donna Bernesser, she also leads a team of School Age Coordinators, ensuring efficiency and excellence in service delivery.

Before joining NYTPS, Clare held supervisory roles in training and quality assurance for a large insurance company. She also worked as a licensed social worker, providing therapy to individuals, groups, and families while advocating for diverse communities. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Education, and Human Services from East Carolina University and a Master’s Degree in Social Welfare from Stony Brook University. Grateful for the experiences and relationships she has built at NYTPS, Clare remains dedicated to supporting the organization’s continued growth and success.

Dana Hall, MS, LBA, BCBA
Director of Behavioral Services

Dana Hall is a dedicated Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Special Education. She joined New York Therapy Placement Services, Inc. in 2006, providing behavioral services to children. She currently holds the role of Director of Behavioral Services, overseeing behavioral services in all our departments. Dana has also played a key role in establishing our BCBA Practicum Program, providing invaluable mentorship to the next generation of Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Her dedication to professional development and hands-on guidance has helped shape future leaders in the field, ensuring excellence in therapy services for years to come. With extensive experience working with diverse populations, Dana combines compassion with strategic interventions to empower clients and families.

Donna Bernesser, B.S Marketing and Consumer Sciences
Director of School Age Services

Donna joined NYTPS in 1991 to expand the school-age sector, focusing on recruiting therapists and establishing contracts with school districts. Under her leadership, the school-age division has become the company’s top-performing sector. Donna holds a Bachelor of Arts from Purdue University and has a background in retail management, including roles that took her across the globe. Her dedication to connecting providers with placements has defined her impactful career.

George Lewis, MBA
Director of Preschool Services and Integrated Systems Operations

George joined New York Therapy Placement Services in 2017 as the Early Intervention Recruiting and Operations Manager. He has held several roles within the Early Intervention and Preschool programs, focusing on standardizing workflows and ensuring positive provider relations. Currently, as Director of Preschool Services and Integrated Systems Operations, George oversees the operational processes within our preschool services department and improves the integration of external data systems into everyday workflows. George holds an MBA in Management and Marketing from Stony Brook University and is grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to the company’s mission of helping children and families in our community.

Kate Lieberman, MS. Ed
Director of Non-Contract Services

Kate joined NYTPS in 2016, bringing a wealth of experience from her prior roles as a classroom teacher and Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT). She initially transitioned into a behind-the-scenes role as a Preschool Special Education Coordinator, later becoming the School Age Placement Coordinator. Currently, Kate serves as the Director of Non-Contract Services, a position that has proven to be both impactful and rewarding.

In her current role, Kate advocates on behalf of families, ensuring that children who have been denied Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) receive the services they are entitled to. Her position requires a deep understanding of the educational system combined with a compassionate approach, as she guides families through complex processes to achieve the best possible outcomes for their children. Kate holds a BA in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University and a master’s degree in special education from Touro College.

Kristyn Sacrestano, Ed.D.
Director of Center-Based Programs

Kristyn joined New York Therapy Placement Services in 2012 as the School Age Coordinator and has held multiple roles, including SEIT Supervisor and Director of NYT Kids Sensory Gym and Speech Language Center. She now serves as Director of Center-Based Programs, overseeing the growth and operations of our NYT Kids Therapy Centers. Kristyn earned her bachelor’s degree in child study from St. Joseph’s College, a master’s degree in Literacy from Long Island University/CW Post, and a Doctorate in Education from St. John’s University. She is dedicated to advocating for services and support that meet the diverse needs of students.

Lauren Scher, B.A. Legal Studies and Public Policy
Director of Contracts and Risk Management

Lauren Scher has been with New York Therapy since July 2015. Lauren’s current role focuses on contract lifecycle management, risk management, and regulatory and contract compliance for the company, providing support to existing and new lines of business. Lauren is a legal and compliance professional with over 16 years of demonstrated success in enabling business operations to meet objectives, prevent loss and mitigate reputational risk. Her prior experience in corporate litigation, investment management and banking gives her the experience necessary to identify and manage various business risks, navigate the regulatory environment, negotiate and manage contracts, and implement controls. Prior to joining New York Therapy, Lauren was a Branch Compliance Officer for SquareTwo Financial, and a Compliance Officer at Ivy Asset Management, a subsidiary of BNY Mellon, and King Street Capital Management, LLC. Lauren received her B.A. in Legal Studies and Public Policy from the University of California-Berkeley.

Meaghan Fidacaro, MS. Ed
Director of Preschool Evaluations

Meaghan joined New York Therapy Placement Services in 2010 as an NYC SEIT provider. With 13 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to supporting young children through the Committee on Preschool Special Education. Since then, she has held various positions within the evaluations department, utilizing her clinical expertise to coordinate and participate in CPSE meetings. Over the years, she has taken on increasing responsibilities, eventually leading the department to meet its growing needs. Now, as the Director of Preschool Evaluations for both NYC and Long Island, Meaghan oversees departmental policies and procedures, ensuring the highest quality standards in evaluations. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology from Long Island University, CW Post, and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education from Hofstra University. Meaghan is deeply passionate about empowering children with special needs and their families, finding fulfillment in celebrating each milestone and helping every child reach their fullest potential.

Sonu Sanghoee, M.S., CCC-SLP, TSSLD
Director of Early Intervention

Sonu Sanghoee is a Licensed Speech Language Pathologist with over 30 years of experience in the early childhood special needs sector. With 20 years of leadership in expanding Early Intervention programs, she has significantly contributed to the growth of clinical and business operations across several organizations.

In 2023, Sonu joined New York Therapy as the Director of Early Intervention for the NYC division, where she now leads both the NYC and Long Island Division’s Early Intervention Programs.

Previously, Sonu held senior leadership roles, including Operations Director at a prominent healthcare services provider, managing NYC Department of Education assessments, and Clinical Director at a leading pediatric therapy and autism services organization, where she led clinical operations across the NYC area and managed a team of 500 professionals. Sonu has experience working internationally as an audiologist and a speech-language pathologist, where she was part of the audiological research team for developing in the ear customized listening devices and she also headed the first cochlear implant team in India. She has also served on the NYC’s Local Early Intervention Coordinating Council.

Sonu is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of children and their families. She is dedicated to empowering, educating, and elevating the professionals and staff who provide these essential services. In her free time, she enjoys coaching youth and contributing to the community.