BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TEAM

Dr. Vicky Ng, PhD

Behavioral Health Director For the FSCS Health Centers

I am licensed as a Psychologist in several states including New Jersey and New York, with over 20 years of direct counseling and therapeutic experience with individuals of all ages and families. In addition to continuing my therapeutic services in vocational and individual counseling, I administer psychological evaluations and vocational assessments. In order to keep myself abreast of the most current academic advances in the field of psychology, I serve as an Adjunct Faculty Member in higher education in New York City and supervise graduate level Mental Health Counseling students.

Justine Ruiz, LSW

Hello, my name is Justine Ruiz. I received my Undergraduate degree as well as my Master's degree in Social Work from Ramapo College of NJ. I previously was an intern at Full-Service Community Schools Health Center throughout the 2021 school year within School #4, SFL & #5. This year I will be working at The Joseph A. Taub School and School 5. I am excited to be joining this amazing team and look forward to being able to assist student and their families in the same city I grew up in

Jennifer Hutchinson, LCSW

Jennifer Hutchinson received her Master of Social Work from Fordham University. Jennifer worked as an intern for the Full-Service Community Health Center during the 2014-15 school year and is thrilled to be rejoining the community in 2016 as a social worker. Jennifer will be spending most of her time at school 15 and the New Roberto Clemente! She is looking forward to a productive and meaningful year for everyone.

LaMarvin Bell, LPC

It has been my life’s goal to change the idea that you can't help a client if he or she is not ready.

I received my Master’s degree from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC), and a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) located in New Jersey with over 20 years of direct counseling and therapeutic experience with individuals of all ages and families.

I have worked in a variety of counseling modalities including residential treatment,Therapeutic Communities (TC), Methadone clinics, and as an IIC providing in-home therapy and outpatient treatment. I also worked with Passaic County Drug Court which equipped me to interact with a diverse population of adolescents and adults entangled with the criminal justice system.

I am excited to be working with FSCS, providing services to the youth at the Al Moody Academy.

Rose Marie 'Rosie' Barbalace, LCSW

My name is Rosemarie, and I am a bilingual social worker and yoga instructor. Originally from Paterson, I have worked with families in Paterson, Passaic, and NYC since 2017. I am passionate about mindfulness, yoga, and providing therapy in a way that is accessible for all. I come from a multicultural background, and I use an eclectic and culturally competent perspective in guiding my practice. I was an intern at FSCS and after graduating from Columbia University School of Social Work in 2019, I’m back! I will be spending time at the Napier Academy. and supervising MSW interns. I am thrilled to be back and looking forward to a fantastic school year.

Nayalit Mercado, LAC

Senator Frank Lautenberg Elementary, School 6 and International HS

I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a mental health therapist. I graduated from International High School and now have the privilege to work at International and Public School No. 6. I have always been fascinated with human behavior and how we express emotions. I am a first generation American and I experienced difficulty navigating my way into the field. I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by amazing colleagues and mentors who helped me pursue my degree in 2020.

My therapeutic approaches include Emotion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Client-centered therapy. I believe each person is the expert of their lives. I aim to validate and reframe client's experiences while pointing out their strength and resiliency. I have had the honor to witness clients achieve their goals as well as process and heal from their past experiences. I hope that my clients can become the best versions of themselves and live a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TEAM

Randi Kaufmann, LSW

JFK High School

PS 10

I received my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University and started my career as a clinician at a residential school in New York, while at the same time starting a private practice. As my family grew, I made the decision to continue my figure skating career and competitively coached individuals and teams for the next 30 years. Along the way, while raising my children, I have continued a life-long passion for learning through holistic modalities, including obtaining my health coach certification and becoming a certified Reiki practitioner.

I decided to hang up my skates and return to the profession that I loved. Having raised three children to adulthood I am beyond excited to work with your children through the FSCS Health Center. I’m thrilled to bring my years of experience as a mom, coach and licensed social worker to foster an open, empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship. My intention is to create a space where your child can build confidence, thrive and grow in their school environment.

This year I will be working at PS #10 and the Paterson JFK High School. I am so grateful for this opportunity and humbled to be a part of this vital team.

Ricky Rivera, LSW

Eastside HS

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays

Hello! My name is Ricky Rivera and I am a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey. I earned my Master’s degree in social work from Rutgers University and had the opportunity to intern with FSCS during the 2023-2024 school year.

My experience spans working with children, teens, and adults across community settings, school-based programs, and the justice system. I take a non-judgmental approach, utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness techniques. I am excited to continue my work this school year at PS #22 in Jersey City. I look forward to making a positive impact in our school!

Gabriela Diaz, LSW

School 2 and Senator Frank R. Lautenberg, School 6

This year I will be working at PS #10 and the Paterson JFK High School. I am so grateful for this opportunity and humbled to be a part of this vital team.