I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified by the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals as an Eating Disorder Specialist and Supervisor.
When the pandemic hit and so many people experienced challenges emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually, so many clinicians became overloaded, and it was difficult for people to find good care. Therapists’ schedules became full, and I had to turn people away who were reaching out for help. That is when I launched The Time is Always Now Therapy Group!
We treat all ages and genders through many diverse challenges this life throws at us.
We employ only the most dedicated and client-centered therapists to form a cohesive atmosphere built on integrity and professionalism.
The team at The Time is Always Now Therapy Group is a dedicated group of specially trained therapists offering individual, family, and group work. Formerly I worked for 17 years at Eating Disorder Treatment Collaborative, and I have been a host as well as a guest on the Chats in the Living Room virtual support group with Sondra Kronberg.
Education and affiliations: Master’s degree from New York University’s, Shirley M. Ehrenkranz School of Social Work in Manhattan, National Association of Social Workers (NASW), International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, (IAEDP), the Academy of Eating Disorder Professionals (AED), the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), founder and former co-chair of the Parent Action Resource Committee (PARC).
Randi is a lover of NY and all its beaches, mountains, and forests, and is most rejuvenated and replenished when in nature! She is crazy about yoga, Dr. Seuss, Winnie the Pooh, dogs, horses, skiing, flowers and fairies.
Our team strives to develop compassionate, effective treatment for those who are struggling and wanting relief, solutions, and change.
If this is you, then, the time is always NOW!
Melissa Eckstein, LMSW
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and loved more than you know." - A.A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh
Sometimes you may not feel strong, brave, smart or loved, enough. Sometimes, life just turns us upside down and inside out. Whether you are seeking to change lifelong patterns or addressing a current stressor or upheaval, I can help you uncover your own unique strengths and abilities in a compassionate, confidential, creative and skillful manner.
Areas of expertise include behavioral and mood issues, anxiety and depression, trauma, adjustment disorders, grief and loss, addiction, disordered eating/body image disturbance, relationship conflicts and medical based psychotherapy.
In addition to my position as Psychotherapist at The Time is Always Now, Therapy Group, I serve as a Medical Social Worker at Mount Sinai South Nassau, conducting psychosocial assessments and coordinating post hospitalization services for two decades.
Working on the front lines throughout the pandemic, I fully appreciate the toll it has taken on my colleagues. I sincerely invite all health care workers to take this time to seek the support and self-care they so deservedly need without delay.
Additionally, I supervise students in training to become certified mental health professionals. I currently serve on the Alumni Board of Long Island University. Previously, I held successive roles at organizations such as Health Insurance of Greater New York, Bellevue Hospital, Central Nassau Guidance & Counseling Services and Zucker Hillside Hospital. I earned my BA degree in Psychology at Long Island University and a master’s degree in Social Work from Adelphi University.
I have dedicated my extensive career to providing compassionate and supportive counseling for clients with a wide range of mental health issues. I also enjoy walking, fitness and spending time with my family.
If you are considering therapy, the time is always NOW!
Lisa Kamna, MS, LCAT
Verified by Psychology Today
No art making necessary. At this time, I offer both in person and virtual appointments.
Feeling stagnant or out of control can manifest itself into many symptoms of anxiety.
Negative self-talk, eating disorders, disordered eating/body image and poor communication can contribute to unhealthy relationships with our loved ones. Managing emotions and identifying the root of our behaviors is the first step to creating a more fulfilling and enjoyable version of ourselves, all while highlighting our strengths and positive attributes!
I am trained to utilize art as a modality of communication though no art making is necessary. Collaboratively we will develop your style of therapy in a safe and confidential space. The stigma to therapy being rigid and invasive will be proven misleading throughout our time together.
My experience working with various populations will leave you confident that I am a suitable fit to help guide you through any issues you are facing. The time is always now!
Natalie DiLascio, LMSW
My truest passion is the opportunity to guide and support children, adolescents, and adults through the myriad of life's challenges. Using warmth, humor, genuine curiosity, and deep empathy we can develop authentic and powerful therapeutic connections which will lead to growth and change.
Young people are experiencing more stress than ever before. In order for anyone to flourish, they must be able to manage their emotional world and translate that into actionable growth. With patience and compassion, the individual can develop an effective means of expression resulting in better life satisfaction and improved relationships.
Through my training as well as life experiences, I have learned the value of the therapeutic relationship and its profound impact on those who partake. I entered this field because I believe it is vital for other young people to formulate healthy coping mechanisms, active listening techniques, short-term relief, and long-term solutions.
Therapy is a partnership, and we will work together to reach your goals. In my care, we will cultivate a safe, non-judgmental, confidential, and supportive environment for your journey of healing, self-discovery, personal evolution, and sustainable change.
My approach is relational and individualized and practiced through a trauma informed lens.
I work from a strengths perspective and treat each client as a unique individual.
In addition to my position as a Psychotherapist at The Time is Always Now Therapy Group, I have two years of experience working at Mount Sinai West hospital helping patients and families navigate the challenges of healthcare and chronic illness. I have helped adults across the age spectrum navigate issues ranging from critical illness, grief, and bereavement to life transitions and complex family dynamics.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and playing tennis!
Hailey Zion, LMSW
My practice is grounded in a strengths-based perspective. I draw from evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT and solution focused approaches to help clients develop practical tools for managing their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
I am a warm and empathetic therapist dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals navigating life’s challenges. I approach therapy with patience, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique.
Additionally, I utilize a Health at Every Size (HAES) approach, focusing on holistic well-being to promote a neutral relationship with food and body image. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to empower my clients, helping them recognize and utilize their strengths and resilience. I am honored to be by your side on your therapeutic journey.
Outside of my role as a therapist, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, going on walks with my dog, being outdoors, and reading.
Lauren Johnson MS Ed., MHC-LP
I have extensive background working with children, adolescents and adults both typical and neurodivergent with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and all challenges life has to offer.
Kids and teens are under tremendous pressure at home, in school, on social media, and with peers. Parents do not have to navigate this alone.
Young adults, like never before have a multitude of challenges forging their paths, finding their way in a constantly evolving climate. These pressures can present themselves in various ways; anxiety, depression, eating disorders, school problems, interpersonal relationships and/or behavioral issues.
My focus is on making your child, loved one, or yourself feel heard, while also providing a personalized toolbox of coping skills. I have always felt that working in the mental health field was my calling. After teaching for 20 years, I made the major life changing decision to transition from educator to therapist. As an educator, therapist, and parent, I always advocate for my students, my clients, my children, and for anyone in need.
Due to my own treatment and recovery from an eating disorder I have learned that building a collaborative relationship in a safe environment is the gateway to recovery. Eating disorders can be challenging for the entire family and require specialized treatment. When treating individuals with eating disorders, we work with a collaborative model towards full recovery. Treatment is tailored to the individual from different developmentally appropriate evidence-based techniques including but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Family Based Treatment (FBT) and play therapy.
I believe that one can learn to live a meaningful life and overcome mental health illness or difficult life transitions. I am passionate and compassionate about this work because I get it. You and/or your child do not need to struggle alone any longer. The time is always now to get the support you so deserve!