FRIENDSHIP BUILDING PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES, PLLC
Our Team
Fern Sandler, PhD
Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Fern Sandler has dedicated the past 25 years to educating and helping families of children with developmental delays and/or social-emotional/behavioral difficulties. She specializes in the assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as well as provides cognitive behavior therapy in individual and group settings. Dr. Sandler also utilizes her skills in the area of parent training and counseling, and support groups.
Kristin Schmermund, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Kristin Schmermund believes that caring for children who have social/emotional/behavioral challenges requires a warm and compassionate approach. Dr. Schmermund works closely with children and their families using evidence based methodology. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and anxiety-based disorders. She also specializes in behavioral therapy in individual and group counseling sessions.
Ari Palmer, M.S.
Behavioral Expert and Consultant
Ari has been with Friendship Building Psych since the very beginning. She serves as a Behavior Consultant in a School District on Long Island and also holds the position of office supervisor at an ABA clinic in Commack. Ari earned her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from Hunter College. Her previous experience includes working at a special ed preschool, first as a teacher’s assistant and later as a behavior interventionist. Her passion for supporting children and her dedication to creating positive outcomes have established her as a trusted professional in the field of behavior analysis.
Janie Howard, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist
Since earning her doctorate in School and Community Psychology from Hofstra University, Janie has worked extensively with children, adolescents, families, and adults. She specializes in anxiety, depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and behavioral disorders, employing a strengths-based approach. Her clinical practice incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and regulation techniques, and play therapy to help clients develop problem-solving skills and build resilience.
Gabriella Duke, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Gaby Duke has been a part of Friendship Building since January 2024. In addition to her role there, she works full-time as a school psychologist in a Long Island elementary school. Dr. Duke earned her Psy.D. in School Psychology from St. John’s University in 2018.
Julissa Garris-Shade, PsyD
School Psychologist
Julissa is a school-clinical child psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with children and families. She is dedicated to helping children develop social and emotional skills through supportive group settings. Julissa is committed to fostering growth and success in every child she works with.
Felicia Flammia, M.S School Psychology
School Psychologist
Felicia Flammia is a recent graduate of Adelphi University, where she earned a Master’s degree in School Psychology. She has experience working as a psychologist in BOCES and public schools, supporting children of all ages. Motivated by a passion for creating supportive environments, Felicia focuses on empowering students socially, emotionally, and academically. She utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating techniques such as art therapy and mindfulness practices to tailor her support to each student's unique needs and journey.