Unlocking kids full potential, to put your mind at ease, and make their educational wins something to be proud of.
Meet Our Team of School Psychologists & Clinicians
I’m Dr. Leah Nathan
hey there!
CEO & founder
After dedicating my career to helping students succeed as a School Psychologist, life gave me a perspective I never expected, my own children went through the school-based testing process.
Suddenly, I wasn’t just the professional interpreting evaluation reports. I was the parent searching for answers, worried about my child’s future and determined to unlock their full potential.
That experience changed everything.
I understand firsthand the uncertainty, frustration, and emotional weight parents carry when their child is struggling in school. I also know the incredible transformation that can happen when a child finally receives the right support. With the right interventions and strategies in place, my own children went from struggling in the classroom to thriving in advanced courses.
For over 15 years, I have worked closely with schools, families, and educators to help students reach their potential. Today, I lead a team of passionate clinicians at The Mind Center, where we specialize in comprehensive psycho-educational evaluations that provide families with clear answers and actionable solutions.
My expertise is backed by credentials and experience in the field:
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Licensed Psychologist & PSYPACT Authorized Provider (allowing services in multiple participating states)
Former School Psychologist serving Public and Public Charter Schools
Former Student Support Team and 504 Plan Coordinator
Creator of workshops for schools, their staff, and parents
Board Member for an Educational Advocacy Group
Through my work, I have helped guide hundreds of families through the evaluation process, giving them the clarity and direction needed to advocate for their children with confidence.
When parents come to The Mind Center, they’re not just getting a report.
They’re working with someone who truly understands both sides of the process, as a psychologist and as a parent.
And that’s why families often say the same thing after working with us:
"You just get it."
WHEN Our team evaluates your student/your child…You can be sure we’ll approach it like the future of our own kids depends on the results!
15
years of experience working with schools, parents, and kids
5000+
school-based evaluations completed
5000+
lives touched by our industry-edge testing approach
Meet the Team
Meet the Team
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With a knack for mental health organizations and a contagious positive energy, Catherine is here to keep clients on track and ensure everything runs smoothly.
She has a wealth of experience as a Revenue Cycle Manager with over 6 years of experience (& counting!). She is knowledgeable in medical billing, coding, and accounts receivable. She is ready to oversee the process from patient registration to payment posting, ensuring compliance and resolving billing issues.
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Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Fanelli is a lead psychologist on our team who provides supervision and training to other clinicians. She has a strong interests in testing, therapy, and supervision.
Dr. Fanelli specializes in neuropsychological evaluations, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and learning disabilities.
Her goal is to understand how individuals learn and think across contexts, and to identify strengths as well as supports needed to promote their development.
She is always mindful of the client as a whole and design test batteries that are individualized.
Dr. Fanelli earned an undergraduate degree in Biology from Towson University and a master’s degree in School Counseling from Manhattan College before earning my doctorate in School Psychology from Fordham University.
Her predoctoral internship was with the Clifford Beers Clinic, where she trained in trauma informed care for children and adolescents, and the Marne Street Clinic, where she specialized in therapeutic treatment and neuropsychological testing with children, adolescents, and adults with developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Dr. Fanelli also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at MassGeneral for Children at North Shore Medical Center, where she gained specialized training in pediatric neuropsychological assessment.
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Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Carpenito enjoys testing and therapy.
She has clinical experience working in therapy with children, adolescents, and adults.
Clinical Interests: depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), grief, interpersonal difficulties, emotion dysregulation, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
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Nationally Certified School Psychologist
5 years of assessment, consultation, and counseling experience as a nationally certified school psychologist.
Earned a Master of Science and Educational Specialist in School Psychology from Miami University (Ohio).
Beyond work Mr. Gatlin enjoys weightlifting and fitness, watching the latest thriller and horror movies, and is always on the hunt for live concerts in the area.
Mr. Gatlin is passionate about collaborating with staff to serve youth and their families as a member of the team at The Mind Center, LLC.
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Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Deirdre Knapp, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience in psychological assessment, therapy, and program leadership.
Over the course of her career, she has conducted a wide range of evaluations, including neuropsychological, psychological, Autism, ADHD, gifted, learning disorder, substance abuse, forensic, and psychosexual assessments, across private practice, clinical centers, and community programs.
She has served in leadership roles such as Clinical Director at the Neuropsychological, Memory, Testing & Treatment Centers of South Florida and Director of Programs at Gerena & Associates, where she supervised clinicians and oversaw specialized treatment programs for individuals with complex behavioral needs.
Her therapeutic work has spanned individual, family, and group counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, with particular expertise in trauma, adoption, sexual-specific treatment, and co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
In addition, she has contributed to professional education as an adjunct professor of psychology at the University of Phoenix and has presented widely on topics such as human trafficking, abuse prevention, and self-care in high-stress fields, underscoring her commitment to advancing both clinical practice and community awareness.
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Psychology Associate with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Dr. Muhamed Hamza has 9 years of experience in the field of behavioral health, which includes comprehensive evaluations, therapy, and consultation services.
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the APA Accredited Chicago school of Professional Psychology.
His training includes assessing and treating depression, anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD, disruptive behaviors, family conflicts, and developing/implementing behavioral management programs.
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Nationally Certified School Psychologist
Over a decade of experience in conducting in person and virtual comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations for all school aged students.
Graduated from the University of Alabama and trained under past NASP president.
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Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Ronald Love is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Dr. Love is also a member of PSYPACT, which allows him to provide teletherapy services in over 30 states.
Dr. Love earned his Doctor of Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Chicago campus, a Master of Arts in Psychology in Education at the Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Clark Atlanta University.
Dr. Love completed his APA-accredited internship at The John L. Gildner Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents (Maryland Department of Health) and has an accomplished background working with youth and adults in the legal/justice system, residential facilities, schools, and community settings.
Dr. Love has experience in clinical and psychoeducational assessments and treating individuals with various mental health concerns. Dr. Love is interested in working with youth and adults from diverse backgrounds and/or urban settings, as well as individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, or individuals who have experienced community-based trauma.
Dr. Love is trained in Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused therapy, and other strength-based approaches. Dr. Love uses an integrative approach to therapy, with a goal of meeting the client where they are at and finding the right approach to help with the client’s needs.
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Certified School Psychologist
After several years of in person assignments, Nick decided that he would learn as much as possible about delivering services virtually.
Today, Nick is in his fifth year of delivering services to school-aged children. Nick loves his work and believes each case to be a new puzzle to be unpacked and assembled.
Nick's favorite part of his job is teaching kids with ADHD to own their diagnosis and to overcome short term inconveniences for long term value.
When Nick is not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife, 2 boys, and reading up on behavioral economics.
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Nationally Certified School Psychologist.
Ms. Tukura holds a Master’s and Education Specialist degree in School Psychology from Miami University, Ohio and is nationally certified by the National Association of School Psychologists.
She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Minot State University and subsequently assumed the role of Residential Supervisor at an in-patient facility for trauma-exposed youth.
Her research interests include trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACES), and the exploration of factors that not only mitigate the effects of trauma and ACES but also contribute to the improvement of academic success and overall well-being in school-age children.
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Certified School Psychologist
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School Psychologist
Tiffany Jenkins is currently a school psychologist with certifications in Maryland, District of Columbia (DC), and New Jersey.
Tiffany earned an Education Specialist degree in the area of School Psychology at Seton Hall University after she completed an internship in the Jersey City Public School district.
Currently, Tiffany is practicing as a school psychologist in the District of Columbia Public Charter Schools, where she assesses students’ cognitive abilities, academic functioning, behavior, and social-emotional functioning.
Tiffany also provides group and individual counseling for students with emotional and behavioral disabilities.
Ms. Jenkins has specific interests and specialties in assessment and evaluation, in addition to working with children and adolescents with emotional and behavior disabilities. Her main area of interest is focused on supporting students’ emotional and behavioral needs to achieve academic success in urban school settings.
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Psychology Associate with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Dr. Raynell Sangster has a Psychology Associate and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.
She enjoys working with both youth and adults. Her clinical approach emphasizes building a strong therapeutic alliance in both testing and therapy settings.
Her clinical interests include multicultural issues, trauma, adjustment difficulties, depression, and anxiety.
Drawing from her background as a piano teacher, Dr. Sangster also appreciates incorporating creative elements into her work with students.
A native of New York, she earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adelphi University.
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Nationally Certified School Psychologist
Jessica is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist in the DMV area. She brings a diverse and extensive background in special education, having held roles including Special Education Teacher, Compliance Manager, Associate Director of Student Support Services, Director of Special Education, and Special Education Specialist.
Originally from Seaford, Delaware, Jessica earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from North Carolina A&T State University. She also holds a master’s degree in Special Education from Coppin State University and a second master’s degree in School Psychology from Bowie State University.
Her professional interests include Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), overidentification, autism, psychoeducational assessment, and consultation. Her mission is to ensure that all students have equitable access to academic success while working to prevent disproportionate identification in special education.
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Certified School Psychologist
Ms. LaBria Weaver is a School Psychologist in the DMV area with a passion for youth mental health, accessibility of services for disadvantaged marginalized youth, and providing positive school experiences for inner city students.
-Ms. Weaver is a native of Detroit, Michigan and received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Michigan State University. She then went on to receive her Masters of Education in School Psychology and Counseling Services from Howard University.
-Ms. Weaver's favorite quote is "You win no prizes from playing it safe.”
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Nationally Certified School Psychologist and Licensed Behavior Analyst
Folashade Shokunbi, NCSP, LBA is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist and Licensed Behavior Analyst. A proud New York native and first-generation Nigerian-American, she earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut and a Master’s and Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies from Northeastern University.
With a deep passion for holistic child development, Shade approaches every learner through a lens that values their unique strengths, backgrounds, and potential. Guided by a commitment to equity and access, she actively advocates for differentiated supports that meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of every child.
Having worked in public/private/charter schools and home-based therapy, Shade understands the importance of collaborating with educators, families, and/or community partners, striving to create environments where all children can thrive, feel seen, and reach their fullest potential!
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Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Ph.D. and M.A. in Clinical Psychology, California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles.
Former Associate Dean/Director of Graduate Studies, Department Chair, and Director of Training for the APA-Accredited Counseling Psychology Ph.D. program.
Current Full Professor (tenured) in the Howard University School of Education, Department of Human Development & Psycho-educational Studies.
Actively researching friendship and psychological functioning among women of color.
Published 25+ peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters.
Served on 100+ Doctoral Dissertation Committees, including 40 as advisor.
Previous faculty roles in:
Howard University College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
Howard University Division of Nursing
Yale University School of Nursing
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Director of the AGEP Program, Howard University Graduate School
Former Book Review Editor for the Journal of Negro Education (7 years).
Program evaluator for multiple NSF-sponsored research projects, including HU-ADVANCE IT.
Provides Academic Leadership Coaching and Workshops for junior faculty and new administrators.
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Licensed School Psychologist
Ms. Maya Rivers is a licensed school psychologist.
She is skilled at assessing students’ cognitive abilities, academic functioning, behavior, and social-emotional needs.
Maya earned an Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology and a Master’s degree in Psychology from James Madison University.
Maya has specific interests in psychological assessment, mental health, and supporting students with social-emotional and behavioral needs.
She is passionate for promoting positive academic outcomes and emotional well-being for students in diverse educational settings.
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Nationally Certified School Psychologist
Lauren Howard, Ed.S, is a dedicated School Psychologist passionate about student growth and well-being.
With credentials from the University of Arizona, she holds national certifications and currently serves at a Public Charter School in Washington D.C.
Lauren excels in psycho-educational assessments, counseling, and consultation, leveraging tools like Response to Intervention (RTI) and professional development workshops to drive positive student outcomes.
Her interests include examining how race, gender, socioeconomic status, and social policies intersect and adversely affect academic achievement and attainment within Black communities and other communities of color.
Her background includes roles in outreach coordination, diversity and inclusion support, and sexual violence prevention programs.
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Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Xavier is a Licensed Psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area.
She is a member of PSYPACT which allows her to practice teletherapy in over 30 states.
Dr. Xaiver received her Masters Degree in Forensic Psychology from Argosy University, Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology, and Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Her clinical therapy training includes psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral, and family systems.
Dr. Xavier’s clinical assessment training involves comprehensive psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults specific to diagnostic clarification (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disability, socio-emotional concerns, etc.) and eligibility for special education services (504/IEP).
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Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Kelsey Ball Fomengia is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the Washington, DC area.
She earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Howard University and completed her Doctoral Internship at the University of Miami.
Her work in forensic settings, schools, community mental health, and private practice have provided her with a variety of clinical experiences with children, adolescents, and adults.
Having grown up in Bermuda, she has a particular interest in cross-cultural issues, and she recognizes the importance of assessing and treating clients from a multicultural perspective.
Drawing on her expertise as a musician and yoga instructor, she enjoys incorporating creative elements into her work with students and consistently advocates for holistic approaches to health and wellness.
Real Schools. Real Parents. Real Results
From learning difficulties to gifted assessments, our evaluations help parents, schools, and students
move forward with confidence.
let’s do
amazing things
TOGETHER
Join our team of growing clinicians.
We are always looking to expand our team with individuals who share our passion for education and student wellbeing. If you are committed to making a difference in the field of educational psychology, we would love to hear from you.