Staff

Shannon Cobb, President and CEO
shannon @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 103
(she/her/hers)

Shannon Cobb, a Danbury resident since 2001, came to Ann’s Place in 2016 serving as the President and CEO. She is a strategic, goal driven, communications and program professional with more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit agencies across the country including United Way, Volunteer New York, Volunteer Maryland, CASA, Lutheran Social Services and more. Having started her career in volunteer management, she continues to value and build diverse volunteer and community involvement wherever she works and at all leadership levels. Through the years, she has recruited, trained and supervised thousands of volunteers to help increase socialization skills for people with disabilities, assist low income seniors live independently at home, advocate for youth in foster care, bring comfort to those living with cancer and enhance the management of nonprofits. 

When Shannon is not at work, she can be found at the United Methodist Church of Danbury, where her husband, Reverend J. Michael Cobb, is pastor. She is a Lay Servant in the New York Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church and speaks a few times a year from the pulpit. Ms. Cobb has a Bachelor of Arts from Gettysburg College, and is a graduate of the Parent Leadership Training Institute in Danbury. She loves spending time with her two adult boys and college sweetheart (husband of over 28 years), taking photos while exploring a new trail, and losing herself in a good puzzle.

Pete Carney, LCSW, Director, Clinical Services
pete @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 101
(he/him/his)

Pete Carney, a licensed clinical social worker, came to Ann’s Place in January 2021 serving as the Director of Clinical Services. Pete has a 24-year history working as a social worker, having worked in the areas of child welfare, substance abuse, mental health, deaf/blind services, suicide prevention, HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ services. For the past 13 years, Pete has worked in director roles in child welfare, substance abuse and HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ services. In 2014, Pete was the recipient of the NYS DOH Commissioner’s Special Recognition Award for improving the health and wellness of LGBTQ New Yorkers, and in 2018 was Presented with the Community Hero Award, for working to improve the lives of LGBTQ Long Islanders, at the annual NY Nets Pride Night. Pete graduated with his undergrad in Social Work from Misericordia University, having then earned his Master of Social Work from Marywood University. Pete has an extensive 13-year history as a professional trainer, having trained thousands of health/human service professionals on LGBTQ, HIV and sexual health related topics. Pete is currently an adjunct professor in the Department of Social Work at Nassau Community College and a consultant trainer on sexual health related topics at the Center for Public Health at Stonybrook University.

A lifelong NYC resident, Pete and his partner purchased a home and moved to Carmel, NY in 2019. In his free time, he enjoys playing with his two rescue dogs, gardening, movies and listening to live music.

Kevin Berrill, MSW, LCSW, Licensed Clinician
kevin @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 113
(he/him/his)

A clinical social worker, Kevin joined the staff of Ann's Place in 2012 after moving back to his native Connecticut from Washington, DC. His clinical experience includes work as a psychotherapist, bereavement counselor, and hospice medical social worker. He works with individuals, couples and groups and is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist.

Kevin's professional background also includes work as a publicist, national organizer for LGBT human rights, documentary program coordinator, author, factory worker, elevator operator, and dishwasher. His wide ranging and occupational journey has helped him to better understand the lives and concerns of those whom he serves.

Kevin's approach to healing and growth is to help clients identify strengths, reflect on what matters most in life, find practical solutions to problems, relax through imagery and breath and cultivate mindful awareness and compassion.

"I feel privileged to join the ranks of such skilled and caring staff and volunteers," said Berrill, "and to serve cancer survivors and their loved ones. This work opens my heart, grounds me in the present moment, and reminds me of what matters most in life."

Jack Bouffard, Events Specialist
jack @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 108
(he/him/his)

Jack came to Ann’s Place as a newly diagnosed Stage IV Hodgkin Lymphoma patient in 2008 and helped cultivate the Young Adult support group here. Before coming on staff in 2017, he spent nine years as a passionate Ann’s Place volunteer and served as emcee for the Amber Room Run From The Sun 5K and Entertainment Chair for Festival of Trees.

In his free time, Jack can be found loading up his nieces and nephews with sugar, traveling the globe, attending concerts or Broadway shows and spending relaxing days at home with his wife, daughter and two cats! 

Alison DiPinto, MA, LPC, Licensed Clinician
alison @ annsplace.org; 203-790-6568 x 132
(she/her/hers)

Alison has been in the field of mental health for the last 26 years. She joined the clinical team at Ann’s Place in 2020 after being a wellness volunteer here for 14 years, teaching Healthy Steps.

Alison has worked with a wide range of life issues including trauma, grief, loss, depression and anxiety. Her approach to therapy is a holistic one, considering mind, body and spirit. She holds the belief of an individuals ability to heal and facilitates that process by utilizing awareness of breath, body, connection and nature.

Alison has been a dance teacher and dancer for her whole adult life and believes movement is one of the keys to joy. Alison in also a Registered Yoga teacher (200hr RYT) and holds a 300 hour certificate in yoga psychology as well as a certification in Grief Yoga®

Angela Fiorella, MSW Intern
angela @ annsplace.org; 203-790-6568 x 124
(she/her/hers)

Angela has recently joined Ann’s Place as a clinical intern while pursuing her master’s degree in social work at Sacred Heart University. Angela believes in the power of empathy and connection and looks forward to take part in a compassionate human centered organization.

Angela is from Newtown, Connecticut. She enjoys crafting, exercising, and connecting with nature which helps her stay grounded and motivated. Angela is excited and grateful to work alongside both the clinical staff and clients at Ann’s place.

Jessica Gleason, BSW Intern
jgleason @ annsplace.org; 203-790-6568 x 117
(she/her/hers)

Jessica is a senior social work major at Western Connecticut State University She is joining Ann’s Place as an intern during this academic school year. She is honored to be able to learn and grow as a social worker at Ann’s Place.

Jessica is from Sherman, Connecticut where she used to be very active at the Sherman Playhouse. During her freetime, Jessica enjoys drawing, singing, and spending time in nature with her dog Curly. 

Emiret Gonzalez, MFT, Bilingual Clinician
emi @ annsplace.org; 203-790-6568 x 116
(she/her/hers)

Emiret González is a psychologist and family therapist, certified as chaplain by the Christian University, Paterson NJ. She started at Ann’s Place in 2021. She is kind woman, with faith, and passionate in everything she does. Proud mother of three children.  Her personal and professional purpose is to support people affected by cancer so that in the middle of the process they do not lose the essence of who they really are, and can strengthen their own resilience to overcome pain and face their process with greater psychological, emotional and spiritual resources

In addition to providing individual and family therapy, she facilitates 4 support groups in Spanish for cancer patients, survivors, and couples.

Emi is passionate about developing programs to improve the quality of life of patients and their families to remind them that there are things that cancer cannot take away from them, such as their own essence, or love, faith even in the midst of this process.

Emi enjoys playing with her children, learning about new cultures, traveling, and attending church. Un dia a la vez, ! One day at a time!

Alyssa Hennessy, MSW Intern
alyssa @ annsplace.org; 203-790-6568 x 124
(she/her/hers)

Alyssa is currently working toward her Master of Social Work at Sacred Heart University and joins Ann's Place as a clinical intern. Most of Alyssa’s work experience has been working with youth in a therapeutic day school and residential treatment center setting. She looks forward to collaborating with and learning from the skilled clinicians at Ann's Place and to engaging with and connecting with clients daily. 

Alyssa is from the Hudson Valley, and recently moved to the Danbury area earlier this year. In her free time from school and work, Alyssa enjoys being active, snowboarding, and spending time with friends and family.  

Annette Kokkola-Mclean, Client Reception and Data Entry Specialist
annette@annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 109
(she/her/hers)

Annette is an accomplished graphic artist with expertise in Adobe Illustrator and a meticulous attention to detail. Originally from Finland, she relocated to Silicon Valley in the late 90s, and later to New York to pursue her passion for graphic arts while working for a prestigious psychiatric practice. In addition to her professional skills, Annette has a background in Early Childhood Education and worked as an au pair when first coming to the States. Annette's dedication to her work is evident in her excellent time management, organizational skills and positive attitude.  Fun facts: When she's not at Ann’s Place or designing, Annette enjoys leading her weekly Zumba classes, lifting weights at the gym, playing games and watching movies with her husband and teenage children and going for walks with their Maltese, Flips. Annette is also an avid painter and hopes to find more time to pick up her brushes soon.

Kate Lieder, MA, LMFT, Licensed Clinician
kate @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 107
(she/her/hers)

Kate joins Ann’s Place as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked with those affected by cancer at The CT Challenge (recently renamed Mission), a cancer survivorship support organization in Southport, CT, and in Private practice since 2011.  Kate works collaboratively with her clients helping them access and cultivate their core strengths so they can better negotiate the many challenges a cancer diagnosis may bring, emotional, physical and spiritual. 

In December of 2008 Kate was diagnosed with breast cancer.  After successful treatment and a second unrelated cancer diagnosis in 2013, Kate feels incredibly blessed to be 5 years cancer free.  Kate utilizes her personal experience as a survivor to help her understand, first hand, some of stresses cancer survivors and their loved ones may face.  Most importantly Kate believes her experiences have taught her the importance of living in the present moment and in not taking anything for granted.

Kate is thrilled to join the team at Ann’s Place and to have the opportunity to work with such a compassionate and skilled group of clinicians and volunteers.

She recently completed a certificate program in Applied Positive Psychology and is excited to integrate some of the scientific based interventions and mindfulness practices into her work.  Kate lives in Ridgefield, CT with her family.  In her free time she enjoys being with family and friends, traveling to new places, as well as cycling, hiking, skiing and practicing yoga.  

Cynthia Long, MA, LMSW
cynthia @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 119
(she/her/hers)

Cynthia earned her Master of Social Work degree from New York University. As a Fellow in NYU’s Zelda Foster MSW Fellowship in Palliative and End-of-Life Care, she received specialized training in oncology, terminal illness, and grief. Cynthia came to Ann’s Place from New York City, where she provided individual counseling and support groups as a Social Work Intern at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Cynthia is a career changer, with a background in health care consulting and an M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. After serving as a caregiver for a loved one with cancer, Cynthia was inspired to pursue a new career in oncology social work. She views this work as her calling and feels honored to walk with individuals and families affected by cancer. As a clinician at Ann’s Place, Cynthia provides individual counseling and facilitates a variety of support groups.

Cynthia lives in Ridgefield, where she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, exercising, reading, and participating in community events.

Felix Maia, BSW Intern
felix @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 117
(He, Him, His)

Felix is a senior social work major at Western Connecticut State University and is joining Ann’s Place as an intern for the academic school year. He is excited to gain valuable experience and develop his skills as a social worker during his time here.

 Felix is from Bethel, Connecticut, and is very active in volunteering within his community. In his free time, he enjoys skiing, swimming, and embarking on long road trips.

Tina Malhotra, MBA, Volunteer and Social Media Coordinator
tina@annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 131

Tina is resident of Ridgefield for the last decade. Tina and her husband moved to town when her son was in grade 1 and he is now at RHS. Tina comes from multi-cultural roots with a family spread across the globe. She went schools in Singapore, India, Europe, and the UK which helps her have a unique perspective on education, community, learning, and broader relationships. Before getting married and moving to USA, Tina helped in running her family’s business that included distilleries, land farming and breeding of polo ponies. She worked with global markets, vendors due to the very nature of the business. After she moved to Ridgefield, Tina found herself involved with the PTAs that started her on an extensive volunteer journey. She has been a PTA leader/president for 7 years and has been actively involved with various other education groups in town. She is currently Chair of the Ridgefield Board of Education, where she has been serving since 2020. Additionally, Tina is also President of the Lions Heart, and a member of the Youth Commission, Ridgefield Prevention Coalition and Ridgefield Community Coalition Against Substance Abuse. She has an MBA from London School Of Economics and speaks Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, and a smattering of Gaelic. Since her entire family lives across the globe, she says she "works hard to make her community an extended family". Tina is passionate her family, two Shih Tzu dogs and being an active part in community organizations caring for our most vulnerable.

Debbie Mendez, ATR-P, LPC-A, Bilingual Clinician
debbie @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 127
(she/her/hers)

Debbie holds a masters degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from Albertus Magnus College. As a clinician at Ann’s Place, she offers individual counseling, facilitates our caregivers and gynecological Cancer support groups and a variety of art therapy groups, for adults and children. in English and Spanish. Being first-generation Venezuelan American, Debbie is passionate about educating and sharing creative therapy techniques with the Latino community. In her free time, Debbie enjoys painting, dancing, and spending time with her son.

Felicia Michael, MS Counseling Intern
felicia @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 127
(she/her/hers)

Felicia is currently working toward her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling  at Western Connecticut State University and joins Ann's Place as a clinical intern. 

A lifelong performer, she worked in the music recording business in New York before moving back to Connecticut to act as a caregiver to her aging parents. More recently she has been working in medical simulation, a branch of medical education devoted to improving clinical and interpersonal skills in medical students. The emphasis on effective communication to facilitate change led her to her current career path. Felicia is still active as a singer, performing regularly in the area with her guitarist husband Bob. When not playing music, they enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking and nature-watching. 

She is proud to be working at Ann’s Place with clinicians of such diverse and rich clinical backgrounds, and excited about collaborating with clients to create positive change in their lives. 

Jacqueline Ondrey, M.Ed., MSW, LMSW, Licensed Clinician
jacqueline @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 128
(she/her/hers)

Jacqueline came to Ann’s Place with a passion and purpose to provide compassionate support and guidance, to individuals and families navigating the complexities of a cancer diagnosis.  With a deep understanding of the emotional, psychological, and practical challenges that accompany the cancer journey, she is committed to empowering her clients to navigate these challenges with resilience and hope.  Whether it's coping with the shock of diagnosis, managing treatment-related stress, addressing concerns about body image and self-esteem, caregiving for a loved one with cancer, anticipatory grief, bereavment, or navigating end-of-life care, Jacqueline provides a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their feelings. Jacqueline's practice emphasizes a holistic approach to emotional and physical well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit in the healing process.  In addition to Jacqueline’s clinical work, she is deeply committed to advocacy and education in the field of oncology, including palliative and hospice care, and complicated grief. In addition to providing individual counseling to client’s at Ann’s Place, Jacqueline runs the Free Wig Program, and facilitates a breast cancer support group, and a support group for the newly bereaved.

In her free time, you can usually find her in Maine, with her family and three dogs, on the beach or kayaking in the estuaries. 

Uwa Osagie, Manager, Community Partnerships
uwa @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 102
(he/him/his)

Uwa is a Danbury native who joined Ann’s place in April 2024. He has a background in health and wellness, with a BS degree in Sports Leisure Management. He most recently worked in fundraising for elementary and middle schools around CT. Uwa has a strong passion for connecting groups of people together and making a positive impact within his community. When he’s not at work, you can find him at the gym or enjoying the outdoors with friends and family.

Dawn Schulze, Development Specialist
dawn @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 106
(she/her/hers)

Dawn spent the past twelve years working for a non-profit organization (the Regional YMCA) running many programs.  The programs were heavily funded by corporate, private and state donors. Dawn was also in charge of organizing committees to allocate the funds.  Dawn also contributed to the success of the special events for fund raising.

Dawn is originally from New York and moved to Brookfield CT in 1999, were she resides with her husband and two sons. In Dawn's leisure time she enjoys being outdoors with her family.  Dawn is thrilled to be a part of the team at Ann's Place, where she can contribute to making a difference in people's lives.

Martha Shilstone, MSW, LCSW, Licensed Clinician
martha @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 105
(she/her/hers)

Martha is a clinical social worker at Ann's Place, primarily working with children, teens, and their families. She holds a BS degree in Child Study and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Georgia. Martha has worked extensively with children in both medical and mental health settings. She is also employed as the Student Assistance Counselor at Newtown High School and Middle School. Martha resides in Ridgefield with her husband and three children.

"A cancer diagnosis impacts not only the patient but the whole family. Ann's Place recognizes this and provides counseling, support and activities for all members. It is such a privilege to support children and their parents during their journey with cancer."

John Stam, Director of Finance and Operations
john @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 105
(he/him/his)

John Stam started his career in Health Services Administration working eight years in the Accounting Dept at Montefiore Hospital, a teaching institution in New York City.  He also contributed greatly to the hospitals public relations through his photographic work.  In 1988, he started his career in production accounting when he became Controller at Big City Films,  a major television commercial production  house in Manhattan.  He went on to form his own company in the 1990’s, called Accounted For, Inc.,  which served the accounting needs of the production and post-production community.  In 1999, he became a  founding member of Go Film, Inc.  and served as their Chief Financial Officer for 15 years. In 2014, John became Director of Finance at Aaron Davis Hall / Harlem Stage Performing Arts Center, a non-profit organization     which celebrates the artistic legacy of Harlem NY,  by commissioning and presenting  artist promoting social injustice through the arts.  When John is not working, he enjoys playing his guitar, going on cross-country runs, and is a sports enthusiast (Go Giants) .  If your children play high school sports, they may run into him refereeing basketball games or umpiring baseball.

Jessica A. Williams, MBA, MA, Director of Development
Jessica @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 115
(she/her/hers)

Jessica joined the staff of Ann’s Place in 2021 after moving back to her native Connecticut from the Bay Area. While in California she received a MBA in Sustainability and volunteered and worked with multiple nonprofits in programming and fundraising. Her last position before leaving was as the Executive Director of Love is the Answer an organization addressing loneliness in older adults in nursing homes.

She is a resident of Ridgefield and is finding new ways to give back including as a member of the Ridgefield Action Committee for the Environment.  Jessica also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Quinnipiac University and a Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Communications Through the Arts from New York University.

Melissa Willmott, Event Specialist, Logistics
Melissa @ annsplace.org, 203-790-6568 x 114
(she/her/hers)

Our Amazing Staff Who Donate Services

Rev. J. Michael Cobb

Michael is passionate about ministries of justice and inclusion, and enjoys bringing his entrepreneurial experiences and enthusiasm for various pop culture fandoms into ministry. He is pastor of The United Methodist Church of Danbury, having previously served churches in New York and Connecticut. Before recognizing his call to ministry, Michael worked in business communications, focusing on public relations and branding for financial companies. He lives in Danbury, Connecticut with his wife and two sons, and is passionate about justice, faith, music, comics, cooking, good tea, and his wife and two sons (not always in that order).

Jean Conover, MA

Jean has a masters degree in Counseling and has run many groups over the years.  She currently runs Women Only, a support group for women with gynecological cancers and Above the Shoulders, a group for people with head and neck cancers.  Jean has served cancer patients at Ann’s Place faithfully since 1996, after her retirement from school counseling.  Jean is a former co-chair of the Quilter’s Corner for our Festival of Trees. Jean also does vacation relief for clinical office staff.

Shelly Fisher, MA

Inge Johanssen-Schultz, MA, RN

Inge retired in 2023 from private practice as a nurse practitioner in mental health, doing counselling and medication management. Before private practice she worked at various hospitals and mental health centers in NYC.  She has also taught mental health nursing in NYC colleges. She facilitates the Stronger Together group for those with GI related cancers.   Her interest in Ann’s Place stems from cancer challenges in her extended family. 

Len Sierra, M.S.

Len Sierra is a research pharmacist by training who found himself in The Reluctant Brotherhood when diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014 that had likely spread to the lymph system. Len has endured ADT, radiation, Zytiga and is also our resident expert on ADT vacations that he has now enjoyed twice. Len lives in Danbury, CT where he spends too much time reviewing the DoD PCa research so refreshes himself in Sarasota, Fl.

Helen Tomasko, MS, LPC, NCC

Helen, a licensed counselor, joined Ann’s Place in 2013.  She facilitates our Women Together Graduates group once a month for women who have finished their breast cancer treatment. 

Lisa Ameijide, MA (Art Instructor)

Lisa received her Masters in Art in Education From Southern Oregon University and a Bachelor's of Fine Art for Illustration and Design from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. At 14 she began her art career working for her Father who owned an ad agency in Manhattan. Interested in all types of art, Lisa enjoys sharing her curiosity and enjoyment of art and crafts by teaching fellow enthusiasts. With art, imagination becomes visible.

Fabian Arevalo Ll (Spanish Speaking Guitar Instructor)

Fabian toca guitarra y canta música religiosa desde los 15 años. Él estudio en la universidad de Cuenca en la facultad de artes,  tiene una maestría en educación y fue profesor de artes musicales y plásticas en diferentes escuelas y colegios como la Salle y en el ministerio de Educación de Ecuador durante 20 años. Fabian formo diferentes conjuntos musicales con los jóvenes y enseñó estudiantes en el arte de la guitarra.

En la actualidad forma parte del Grupo Raíces Chasquis como guitarrista y vocalista, siendo embajadores de la música latinoamericana ejecutando instrumentos andinos como la quena, la zampoña y el charango.

Ann’s Place agradece a  Fabian  que ofrezca clases de  Guitarra para nuestra comunidad Hispana.

Fabian has been playing guitar and singing religious music since he was 15 years old. He studied at the University of Cuenca in the faculty of arts, has a master's degree in education and was a professor of musical and plastic arts in different schools and colleges such as La Salle and in the Ministry of Education of Ecuador for 20 years. Fabian formed different musical ensembles with the young people and taught students the art of the guitar.

He is currently part of the Raíces Chasquis Group, as a guitarist and vocalist, being ambassadors of Latin American music playing Andean instruments such as the quena, the zampoña and the charango.

Fabian offers guitar lessons for the Spanish Community of Ann’s Place.

Roxane Angotta (Zumba Instructor)

Roxane began volunteering at Ann’s Place in 2017 as a Zumba instructor. Zumba is a dance fitness class where you can “Have Fun while you Get Fit!” Roxane was licensed in 2007 and has taught in various locations in the greater Danbury area, including the Ridgefield Rec center, Founders Hall, and classes in her home studio. Roxane shared that her students “come in many different age groups, shapes and sizes, from kids – including those with special needs, to those in their golden years.” Roxane welcomes everyone to give Zumba a try, stating “Don’t worry, anyone can do it! It’s easy! Have some fun, some laughs while getting fit!”

Bob Becker (Our Memoir Group)

Limor Bredmehl (Usui Reiki)

Limor is a Reiki Master practitioner in the Usui tradition and has been an energy healer for several years. She has always found "energy" fascinating and has been able to focus her attention on how energy can be used to help a person heal themself.  Learning QiGong, Tai Chi and having spent decades earning  black belts in two different Martial Art styles has enriched that focus. 

Limor was born in Belgium, lived in the West Indies and then moved to the United States by the time she was 13.  Having had such a diverse upbringing has given her the opportunity to connect with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and languages and learned to understand people regardless of whether she speaks their language or not.

Anne Burningham (Yoga)

I am a certified Kripalu Yoga instructor. Currently, I offer a class at the library for cancer survivors for which I received certification. As a cancer survivor myself, I use my practice to center and relax myself.  Yoga continues to enhance my physical, mental and emotional well-being.  It is my quest to bring the benefits of yoga to cancer survivors. The class that I offer is a gentle yoga which helps you to connect to the present moment. The breathing and movements ease stress and promote inner peace.

Eileen Byrne (Reiki)

Eileen is a certified Reiki Master in the Usui method and a member of the International Center for Reiki Training. She loves sharing reiki to help aid in stress reduction and relaxation to help promote healing, and has been a volunteer in New York and Connecticut. She is also certified in Sound Therapy and has led workshops on its benefits. She is a graduate and past facilitator of the Parent Leadership Training Institute in Danbury.

Janet Cava (Art)

Since a young age art has always intrigued her and took on a meaning of inspiration, beauty, and uniqueness. Janet has a deep-rooted love for art and a passion for painting that touches her core.

She primarily uses acrylic paint and explores mixing various colors that blend and create an amazing piece of art that sparks emotion.

Janet credits her creativity to her great grandfather and uncle who were incredible artists, whose works inspired her to paint.

Teresa Costello (Usui Reiki)

Teresa is a Certified Usui Reiki Master Teacher, Certified in Advanced Integrated Energy Therapy (IET), and Certified in Advanced Animal Reiki. She is a member of IARP (International Association of Reiki Practitioners) and owner of Healing Touch Reiki Holistic Arts Center, in Ridgefield, CT. She says “Reiki has impacted me personally in such a positive way, that I wanted to share that energy and feeling, with as many people, and animals, as possible. Reiki is a gentle yet powerful energy that supports us on our healing journey- physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. “

Betsy Debany, MRT (Usui Reiki)

Betsy is a Reiki Master Teacher trained in the Usui school of Reiki.  She discovered personally how Reiki can positively affect your life and she wants to share this with as many others as possible.  Betsy channels a higher universal energy and is just the 'hollow bone" that it passes through to facilitate a healing session.   Betsy has studied and continues to train in other healing modalities including shamanism, mediumship and Earth-Based Psychotherapy that assist in her sessions.  Betsy also offers distance/remote healing sessions.  The session can be done over zoom or just with phone contact. She looks forward to providing a safe space for clients to relax and begin healing at an energetic level.

Rebecca Fanning (Yoga)

Rebecca started at Ann’s place in 2023. She has practiced yoga for over 20 years and received her 200-hour Vinyasa Yoga certification in Dec 2021. She enjoys the grounding and emotional wellbeing felt when practicing meditation, breath and asanas.

Amanda Gabbard, Beauty Specialist, Makeup Artist, Cosmetic Educator, Esthetician

Meet award winning makeup artist and well-known beauty expert Amanda Gabbard. Based out of New York City and having been affiliated with top salons & spas, celebrity photographers, and television networks she is now branching out to the Westchester, NY, and Fairfield, CT areas that she calls her second home. A licensed esthetician and sought after beauty expert on makeup and skincare Amanda’s advice has been featured in numerous publications (Huffington Post and Hollywood Life to name a few). She has appeared as a beauty host on ‘Style Code Live’ and ‘Amazon’s Prime Day’ broadcasts. You can also find her on ‘Amazon’ giving tutorials for many different beauty products. With experience in all areas, from film & TV, corporate & modeling shoots, weddings, special events, even a girls’ night out, Amanda’s approach is always the same – simply listening to you and working together to enhance your own beauty, creating the best version of yourself! Having been on both sides of the camera, Amanda knows what looks good and will no doubt make you comfortable while feeling and looking your absolute best. Amanda offers free makeup and skincare lessons and classes at Ann’s Place to clients.

Lucy Gainsback (Yoga)

Lucy came to the practice of yoga through a search to maintain physical fitness.  Taken by the holistic benefits offered by the practice both on and off the mat, and using them in her own personal growth and healing, her practice evolved to sharing this mental, emotional and physical fitness with others.

Completing her 200 hour certification in 2015, Lucy has continued to learn through her teaching.  Her classes incorporate the relationship that is built between the body, mind and breath, helping others in building this relationship to assist us in moving through life.

Lucy has joined Ann’s Place as a substitute Yoga instructor and will be teaching our Wednesday 1:30 p.m. She teaches the yoga class six months of the year.

Joe Gillotti (Yoga)

With over twenty years as a weekly wellness volunteer at Ann’s Place, Joe Gillotti now offers weekly book study groups focused on the works of Eckhart Tolle. We are grateful for Joe's continued presence. 

Karen Gillotti (Yoga)

Karen Gillotti was certified to teach Integral Yoga in 1996. Her certifications include gentle, beginner, intermediate, and prenatal yoga. Also received certification from Kripalu Yoga to teach Yoga Nidra (guided deep relaxation). Karen has been teaching at the New Fairfield Senior Center and Redding Parks and Recreation. She is also currently teaching a Yoga Nidra class at Yogaspace in Bethel.  Karen graciously fills in as a Yoga instructor as needed and leads the weekly Knitting Group.

Geri Hutchings (Facilitator of the Comfort Zone Program)

Geri came to Ann’s Place as a client almost thirty years ago and with an abundance of gratitude, after leaving her corporate life she started volunteering. She had specialized in internal and external customer service and those talents were put to good use at the first Festival of Trees fundraiser. She continues on this committee to this day. With her training in bereavement and cancer support Geri is excited to be facilitating “The Comfort Zone” a Peer to Peer Support Group, being offered monthly at Ann’s Place.

Chuck Jones (Creative Writing)

Chuck joined the Ann's Place family this past fall. For more than 45 years, he taught writing and literature to students from middle school to graduate school in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Washington, DC, where he now lives. He leads "Finding Our Way: A Writer's Journey," where participants explore ideas, feelings, lives, and stories as a form of self-expression and healing. Writing helps us all to make sense of the onrushing of our lives, to understand what we most value, and to put things in a clear perspective. We write together, share our work, and build a caring community of writers.   

Joyce Kadan (Quilting)

Joyce Kadan has been a sewist and quilter for almost 40 years. During that time, she has taught hundreds of individuals how to quilt, both formally in a classroom setting, and informally to interested friends and family members. She has finished more than 150 quilts, many of which were given to organizations to generate funds for a variety of programs. She has also created quilts to be given to Breast Cancer patients, victims of domestic violence, children in crisis and many others. Joyce continually expands and updates her quilting knowledge by learning new techniques as they become available. She attends many quilt shows, lectures, and demonstrations each year and incorporates new ideas and information into her skill set.

Joyce is certified in Plant Based Nutrition through the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies at eCornell. She has helped many individuals successfully transition to a Whole Food Plant Based Diet through coaching, cooking lessons, and formal and informal education. Joyce organizes monthly Plant Based potluck dinners where attendees bring a dish for everyone to share. She thrives on seeing friends and family regain their health and vitality, eliminate or reduce medications, and love what they see when they look in the mirror.

Claudia Larsson (Reiki)

A Reiki Master, Claudia Larsson received her certification under the direction of Master Elly Kukk, Brookfield, CT. She is a licensed massage therapist and has studied craniosacral therapy and energy work in the U.S. and abroad. In addition to massage and body work, Claudia produces her own line of custom blended shea butter massage creams and she incorporates aromatherapy into her work with clients. Reiki and all healing modalities are the basis of Claudia’s work. According to Claudia, “intention and the energy behind it are what heals body, mind and spirit. Reiki is a beautiful exchange where both practitioner and patient are moved into an energy dance; both receive and give, creating a positive exchange and unlocking each person’s natural capacity to heal.

Dr Perry Levenson (Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine)

Dr. Perry Levenson is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine.  He brings over two decades of experience to every nuance of the care he provides.  Dr. Perry is licensed as an Acupuncturist in New York and Connecticut, and nationally board certified in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. He believes strongly in the mind-body-spirit connection and that true health comes from a state of mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.  Dr. Perry works with patients on a deeply personal level, often teaching breathing and meditation techniques that foster deep relaxation.  These techniques, empower patients to manage their response to stress and to open their entire being to growth and the healing process.  Extensively trained in Asian medicine and massage, Perry is also expert in the techniques of Cranial Sacral Therapy, Somato-Emotional Release, Bowenwork. He is the creator of Integrative Asian Medical Massage (IAMM) a technique that is a combination of several eastern and western massage therapies.  Perry has developed expertise in natural fertility enhancement/women’s health, Chronic illness including Lyme and long Covid, and pain management/cessation.  He brings compassion, humor, and respect to his work with people of all ages. 

Kristy Liesegang (Reiki)

Hi! My name is Kristy Liesegang and I have always been intrigued with energy healing. In June 2018, I suffered from a head injury and had Post-Concussion Syndrome for nine months. I tried everything from acupuncture, head trauma massages, and meditation to help alleviate my ongoing migraines, panic attacks, insomnia and depression. After finally trying Reiki, I immediately experienced such profound calming effects, not only on a physical level, but also on my emotional and mental state of mind. 

I became fascinated with healing and the human spirit’s connection. I decided to get certified in Reiki Second Degree honoring the spiritual lineage of Usui in October 2020. Soon after that, I completed a 500 hour Yoga Teacher Training, took a number of Qigong classes, trained in Yin Yoga, participated in sound healing lessons, and obtained a Master Level of the Usui System of Reiki Energy Healing. In addition to Ann’s Place, I also volunteer at Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association and perform Reiki sessions on the hospice patients and staff. I continue to provide private yoga sessions, and fit in my various hobbies of walking, hiking, cooking, and reading.

From my concussion experience, I know what it is like to only have your breath to calm down and listen to your body’s sensations. During my Reiki sessions, I incorporate unique meditation exercises, the use of crystals and essential oils, and sound healing instruments to help patients look beyond their physical selves and challenge their minds and bodies in a healing way. 

Nancy J. Ryan (Tai Chi)

Tai Chi Chuan is a Chinese movement art that can provide great health benefits to the body, mind and spirit. Nancy Ryan has been practicing Tai Chi Chuan for more than 13 years. She shares her love of Tai Chi and its benefits with the clients of Ann's Place in her weekly class.  Tai Chi is offered at Ann's Place every Monday evening, 6:00 - 7:00 pm.

Luanne Sforza (Feldenkrais Movement Program)

Luanne is a licensed physical therapist as well as a certified practitioner in the Feldenkrais® Method of Movement, who is passionate about others and joined the Wellness team at Ann’s place in 2022.  She now offers a group class in the Feldenkrais® Method called Awareness Through Movement®, which incorporates awareness and gentle movements to enhance overall function, efficiency in movement and/or relaxation.  Luanne also currently works as a physical therapist at Wholistic PT in Brewster, NY.

Donna Sozzynski Certified Horticulture Therapist

Donna is a certified Horticultural Therapist. She loves all things plants, and connecting people with nature to create well-being. She is also a garden teacher for pre-k thru 6th grade. Donna brings nature inside for seniors, whether in Independent living, Assisted Living or Memory Care.

You can often find her at a garden center, planting seeds or thinking about HT activities.  Currently, living in NY with her husband, Daniel, a musician/composer and Integrative Sound Practitioner.  Mom to 2 creative "adult" kids. She loves being outside, walking, hiking, exploring, traveling, and improvisational cooking (making up recipes).  

Donna received her Certification in Horticultural Therapy at the New York Botanical Garden in NY, has studied Whole Plant based Nutrition, and the Art and Science of Herbalism. She has studied Fine Art. She incorporates botanical elements into her art, and is a ceramic artist. Loves dirt and clay!