Our Practitioners
Our practice contains both full time and part time independent practitioners to tailor your needs at all times of the day.
INDEPENDENT PRACTITIONERS
Please click on the names for detailed biographies of our Pinnacle Behavioral Health independent practitioners:
Psychiatrists:
William Cox, MD
About William:
William F. Cox, MD, residing in Albany, New York, is a board-certified psychiatrist with 26 years of post-residency experience who has accumulated extensive experience over the past six years with independent medical examinations and reviews. Most of these IMEs have been for New York state Workers Compensation cases
Dr. Cox has also performed several examinations for the Department of Veterans Affairs for post-traumatic stress disorder and other psychiatric impairments, Railroad Retirement Board, short- and long-term disability, and employee and military fitness for duty.
Reports are timely, detailed, and well-written.
Charles Van Meter, MD
About Charles:
Dr. Van Meter has been practicing psychiatry since 2005. He is a graduate of St. George’s School of Medicine and completed his psychiatric residency at the University of Virginia Roanoke-Salem Program in Roanoke, Virginia. He has experience in both the inpatient and outpatient psychiatry fields and has taught medical students along with post-graduate residents.
David Pierce, MD
About David:
Choosing a psychiatrist can be a difficult task, and selecting one from a long list online can be daunting. Whether you’re facing depression, anxiety, or something else, reaching out for help can be a challenging hurdle to get over. If you’re in distress or just ready to make a change, consider seeing me.
One reason to do so is that I’m good at the fundamentals such as establishing an atmosphere of open communication and non-judgmental understanding. Because my patients sense I understand, they open up about things that can be difficult to discuss – things that sometimes fundamentally change the outcome of their treatment. Another fundamental is that I am a good listener. Anyone seeing a psychiatrist should know that their feelings are heard and genuinely acknowledged. Sometimes people are not fully aware of everything they are feeling. A good listener can provide clarity.
I am Board Certified in General and Addiction Psychiatry with 25 years of experience. I went to medical school at Mount Sinai, and did my residency training at Columbia University. My practice is primarily composed of medication management and brief counseling. While many find significant benefit from this approach, others may find that adjunctive psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, involvement in support networks, or a deepened spiritual journey is essential. Engaging in one or more of these forms of self care can be indispensable. It would be my pleasure to assist you on this path.
Gulnaz Kiyamova, MD
About Gulnaz:
Dr. Gulnaz Kiyamova, MD, brings over two decades of experience to our practice, specializing in thoughtful, evidence-based care. She is dedicated to helping individuals find relief and lasting wellness. Dr. Kiyamova treats conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and OCD, and offers support for everyday focus and mood challenges. She utilizes experience gained from recent work in hospital, outpatient, and telehealth settings, demonstrating adaptability and comprehensive care delivery. With training from Stony Brook and extensive experience, she is committed to guiding people to their fullest, healthiest potential.
Muhammed Saif, MD
About Muhammed:
Nurse Practitioners:
Michael Conley Ph.D., ANP-BC, CCTP, CHC
About Michael:
Michael is veteran Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of practice, as well as a Ph.D., in Counseling-Psychology. Dr. Conley is a graduate of Upstate Medical University, Dallas Seminary, University of Renfrew and has completed fellowships at Villanova and Harvard Universities.
His passion is to see humanity return to healthcare. His special interests are in the treatment of Complex Trauma, Adult ADHD and Persistent Grief disorders through psychopharmacology as well as integrative psychotherapy. He is an avid gardener and loves the outdoors.
“Focused attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity.” Simone Weil
Amanda Allie, NPP
About Amanda:
Elmer Jones Elma, PhD., DNP, PMHNP-BC
About Elmer:
Being a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to promoting holistic mental wellness for individuals of all ages. With my board certification and vast clinical experience, I strive to empower those facing mental health struggles. My approach is grounded in evidence-based care and deep empathy, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals from diverse backgrounds. I understand the importance of cultural competency and show unconditional respect for each person’s unique experiences and needs. Whether confronting anxiety, depression, or complex diagnoses, I work collaboratively with my clients to create a personalized treatment plan that fosters healing, resilience, and overall well-being. Let’s team up and unleash your potential for a satisfying life.
Karen Ockenholt PMHNP-BC
Deborah Sweeney, PMHNP-BC
About Deborah:
Deborah has established a respectable career as a long time Nurse Practicioner at Pinnacle Behavioral Health. Her engaging personality and comforting approach is appreciated by everyone that surrounds her. Her professional philosophy is based off the importance of healthy mind and healthy body. Over the course of her career she has served as both a Family Nurse Practicioner and a Psychiatric Nurse Practicioner. Deborah has a bachelors degree in Health and Human Services from Empire State College , and holds a masters of science in Nursing from Sage College. She has played an important role in the success of Pinnacle up to this point and truly enjoys working
with her colleagues.
“We Are All in This Together!”- Deborah Sweeney, PMHNP-BC
Danielle Beach, PMHNP-BC
About Danielle:
to achieve optimal mental health. She has been a Registered Nurse for eight years and has spent the majority of that time working with geriatric patients in order to improve their quality of life in skilled nursing facilities. Danielle believes that all patients are unique and come forward for mental health assistance from all walks of life and with a variety of tools and histories at their disposal in order to work towards wellness together, with her. Her approach to treatment relies on taking into consideration a patient’s history, current life circumstances, and beliefs about mental health and treatment in order to tailor the best approach to managing symptoms of psychiatric illness. Danielle is compassionate, knowledgeable, and patient, encouraging patients to voice all concerns and questions, for which she will always do her utmost to answer fully. A solid foundation of a strong rapport between patient and provider is the first and central goal of Danielle as she works with patients to achieve relief from mental health symptoms and improve their quality of life. Danielle looks forward to working with patients across the lifespan and with a variety of concerns, from depression and anxiety, to bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and beyond.Brendan Ruddy, PMHNP-BC
About Brendan:
Nicole A. Taylor, MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN
About Nicole:
Physicians Assistant:
Albert Arceri, RPA-C
About Albert,
Albert Arceri is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant (RPA-C). Albert received his Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Albany Medical College and his undergraduate from Wake Forest. Albert strives to give back to aspiring medical professionals through volunteering at Albany Medical Center where he teaches current medical students. Albert is on the advisory committee at the Albany Medical College where he strives to implement changes that will improve the efficacy of their programs. Albert utilizes his diverse work environment experience including inpatient, outpatient, and telehealth to develop psychiatric treatments for the mental health needs of his patients.
Psychologist:
Licensed Clinical Social Workers:
Corin Wenger, LCSW
About Corin: 
David Burns, LCSW-R
About David:
David is a new member of the Pinnacle Behavioral Health team. With twelve years of experience as a social worker, David spent the last eight years working at an outpatient treatment facility with those suffering from serious mental illness. His specialties include the treatment of anxiety and depression. David also has experience working with people suffering from anger management and substance abuse issues. Utilizing a compassionate approach to therapy that helps clients feel safe and valued, David has a strong interest in helping others find meaning and purpose in their lives. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the State University of New York, College at Brockport, and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University at Albany.
Interests/Hobbies: Exercise, Reading, Writing, Music, Camping, Spending time with family and friends.
Jamie Coscia, LCSW-R
About Jamie:
If you are someone who desires a more peaceful life and wants insight a
s well as concrete skills to cope, call for an appointment today. I enjoy working with people who struggle with loving themselves and engage in negative, unproductive patterns that leave them feeling frustrated and hopeless. I love helping people identify their limiting beliefs in order to clear the path for a more rewarding life.
I see many people who feel they are beyond hope and struggle with things such as: anxiety, depression, stress, negative self image, low self- esteem, lack of confidence, anger, poor communication skills, strained relationships, lack of purpose, lack of life satisfaction, trauma, toxic relationships, etc.
I engage in strengths-based, solution-focused person-centered work and use a variety of modalities. I enjoy connecting spirituality and intuitive guidance work in sessions if this is in line with client’s desires. An assessment can be done to determine if life coaching or individual/group therapy is more appropriate.
Certificate: International Coaching Federation / Life Coaching (2017)
Christine Koster, LCSW-R
About Christine:
Christine brings a unique presence to the Pinnacle Behavioral Health staff. Before she joined private practice she held various supervisor and administrative positions in the mental health field. She provides an energetic vibe that her patients love to feed off. Christine is a bachelor’s graduate of Binghamton University and has her masters from the University at Albany. Specializing in both trauma informed treatment and dual diagnoses, Christine is able to give individuals the tools needed to help transform their life. Currently, Christine is a full time member of the Pinnacle Health staff.
Hobbies/ Interests: Cooking, Gardening, Crochet &Cross Stitch, Jigsaw Puzzles, Traveling, Reading, and Her Cats!
Frank Macri, LCSW-R
About Frank Macri:
A role model, would be the simplest way to describe Frank from his colleagues at Pinnacle. Not only has he dedicated a majority of his career to Pinnacle, but he has fought and overcame Colon Cancer. Although Frank had to take a leave of absence, he came back in 2015 to great respect and admiration from his patients and Pinnacle staff. Frank holds a bachelors degree in Business Administration from Utica College of Syracuse University and his masters in Social Work from the University at Albany. He has completed numerous trainings and certifications from world renound social worker Mary Sise. Also, he works part-time at Pinnacle and continues to endeavor in various trainings.
Interests/ Hobbies: Trombone Player for Yankee Doodle Band, Natural Healing Arts, Energy Medicine and Meditation
Elizabeth Tunison, LCSW-R
About Elizabeth:
Elizabeth Tunison joined Pinnacle in early 2014 to help transform patients lives on a full time basis. She brings a relaxed, approachable feeling to her psychotherapy talent. She holds both her bachelors and her master’s degree from the University at Albany. She also was the valedictorian at her high school. Her talents are greatly recognized daily and she’s currently the co-facilitator of the Wellness Group at Pinnacle.
Interests/Hobbies: Tennis, Movies, Theater, Running, Yoga, Travel, and Kayaking
Carol Savelli, LCSW-R
About Carol:
Carol Savelli, LCSW-R is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of clinical and administrative social work practice in the Capital District. She received her Master of Social Welfare (MSW) through The University of New York at Albany. She has since continued to take advanced clinical courses in the field of mental health.
Carol has worked in a variety of mental health settings including inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics and practices and partial hospital program settings providing mental health services for a variety of populations.
Carol believes that each client is an individual and strives to tailor the treatment to the client, borrowing from multiple treatment modalities, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and strength- based and solution-focused techniques to help people navigate through challenging times in their lives. Carol provides a supportive, non-judgmental, caring environment that is therapeutic and effective to those she assists. She works to help her clients meet their personal goals and live a life that promotes a healthy mind, spirit and body.
Carol works with clients who have social and emotional issues that impact their daily functioning and cause them discomfort in personal and work areas such as anxiety, stress, depression, adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, interpersonal relationship problems, difficulties with emotional regulation or anger management, grief and loss, chronic mental illness and substance abuse.
Hobbies and Interests:
In her free time Carol enjoys, listening to music, taking walks in nature, going to museums, live theater and caring for her pets.
Jennifer Forster-Green, LCSW, MA
Using a strengths-based approach, Jennifer has over 10 years of experience as a trauma-informed therapist, specializing in dual-diagnoses, complex-trauma, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, self-esteem, Bipolar Disorder, relationships, grief and loss, and personality disorders. She has over 20 years of experience in the field of human services, including supervisory and administrative positions.
As a SUNY-Albany Social Work graduate student, Jennifer received a competitive Internships in Aging Project Scholarship. She also holds a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY-Albany and has served as an Adjunct Professor at SUNY-Albany, providing Field Instruction to graduate-level social work interns. In 2015, the New York State Coalition for Children’s Mental Health Services bestowed Jennifer with the honor of Employee of the Year.
Jennifer’s practice encompasses clients from 5yo through adulthood, and she particularly enjoys working with families. She draws from a wide array of therapeutic modalities, collaborating with clients to help them gain insight, build healthy coping skills, maximize opportunities, and “do the work” to overcome adversity and challenges. Jennifer supports clients with celebrating individuality in the journey to discover self, empower change, and realize “aha” moments.
Interests/Hobbies: Gardening, research, travel, organizing, cooking, movies, reading.
Jerald Petell, LMSW
About Jerry:
Jerry Petell, LMSW is an independent practitioner at Pinnacle Behavioral Health LLC, IPA who received his masters in Social Work from the University At Albany. Jerry runs the Tai-Chi Group at Pinnacle which is a Chinese art form of meditation in motion using posture, breath and mental focus in balancing the body’s energy systems.
Ingrid Werge, LCSW
About Ingrid:
I am a therapist with eighteen years of clinical experience. I enjoy guiding and supporting people who are experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety as they navigate difficult life transitions. I tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs using a variety of strengths-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness meditation, nature therapy, internal family systems, and experiential mind-body approaches. I have specific expertise and interest in working with women, veterans, and young adults.
Hobbies/Interests: Ultimate Frisbee, Yoga, Hiking, Meditation, Ceramics, Travel
Licensed Mental Health Counselors:
Shane Scarofile, LMHC
About Shane:
I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in child and adolescent development, anxiety, and depression. My clinical approach integrates CBT, DBT, ACT, Gestalt, Person-Centered Therapy, and Child Parent Psychotherapy to meet the unique needs of each client. I bring over a decade of experience across therapeutic, residential, and educational settings—ranging from individual counseling and telehealth to youth mentorship, special needs support, and early childhood education.
I work closely with caregivers to strengthen family systems and support lasting emotional growth. My goal is to create safe, compassionate environments where individuals of all backgrounds can heal and thrive.
Stephanie Do, LMHC
About Stephanie:
Stephanie plays an important part as a full time counselor at Pinnacle Behavioral Health. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Russell Sage College and has a master’s degree from St. Rose College. Her specialties include Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse, Addictions, Dual Diagnoses, Women’s Issues, LGBTQ Issues, CBT, REBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Stephanie in her own words: “When I first meet with a clients, I am often told that I am “not what they expected.” I sincerely take this as a compliment. My clinical approach is firmly rooted in the concepts of self-efficiency, empowerment, and self-acceptance. There is no “normal” and no one needs “fixing”. It is in learning to make meaning for ourselves that we find our place in the world. There is nothing I enjoy more than helping people find their place.”
Hobbies/Interests: Reading, Baking, Travel, Psychopharmacology, Evolutionary Psychology, World+ US History, Cultural Anthropology, Modern Art, College Basketball, and Social Justice Issues.
Christine Usyk, LMHC
About Christine:
Christine is currently a part time therapist with Pinnacle Behavioral Health. She holds a BA from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in Forensic Psychology and an MS from St John Fisher College in Mental Health Counseling. Christine’s specialties include Medication Assisted Therapy, Substance Abuse, Addictions, Infectious Disease (HIV, Hep C), Depression and Anxiety.
Hobbies/Interests: Outdoor activities, hiking, kayaking, wellness, music and spending quality time with family and friends!
Casey Aley, LMHC
About Casey:
Mark Leach, LMHC
About Mark:
Mark is a therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience in the field of addictions and mentalhealth. He graduated with his master’s degree from SUNY Oswego and has been in the helping
fields ever since. He has experience working in residential, inpatient, and outpatient programs
across his career and has enjoyed time in supervisory roles as well.
Usually described as genuine, humorous, and thoughtful, Mark uses these with a blend of CBT,
DBT, ACT, and motivational interviewing in a strength-based approach to address a client’s
concerns with the goal of helping them accept their struggles and learn how to improve or
overcome their current feelings or situations. Mark’s specialties include: substance use, trauma
and PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationships, and self-esteem.
Hobbies/Interests include: cooking, gaming, reading, kayaking, yoga, and other ways of being
outdoors.
Group Instructors:
Chrys Ballerano, Yoga Instructor
About Chrys:
Chrys is a lifelong yoga practitioner and certified yoga instructor, having 200 hours of Yoga Teacher Training in 2009 from Karuna Yoga in Northampton MA. She has taught at the Yoga Loft, The Next Step and the Holistic Network in Albany as well as in Vermont at Farm and Wildnerness adult summer camp.
Chrys engages with a wide network of individuals and communities both through her music and her professional work as the Sr. Director of Collaboration & Training for NYSCASA (NY’s Coalition Against Sexual Assault). She has worked extensively with rape crisis counselors, individuals who have survived trauma and diverse community advocates for over 20 years. She is frequently requested to teach drumming and yoga and lead workshops on trauma and recovery throughout NYS. A graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) and Hippocrates Health Institute, Chrys is a certified Holistic Health Coach currently enrolled in advanced studies with IIN.
Gardening, mentoring young people, and snowboarding are among her favorite activities besides making music with others. Chrys is passionate about interweaving the vital work of environmental and human rights as we create and build sustainable possibilities for future generations.