Meet the Confident Kids Camp DC Metro Team
Camp Leaders

Meet the Confident Kids Camp DC Metro Team
Camp Leaders

Lindsay Scharfstein, Ph.D., she/her

Camp Director

Hi! I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Founder of the Rockville Therapy Center LLC. I am proud to bring the Confident Kids Camp for Selective Mutism to the DC metro area since 2019! Our DC Metro camp motto is Using Fun to Override the Fears that children and families coping with Selective Mutism face. I offer practical, personalized, and collaborative care. Outside of work, I enjoy rocking climbing, hiking, outdoor events, and spending time with loved ones, and my dog! As you all already know, I cannot wait for camp!

Adelia Sabintsev Psy.D., she/her

Younger Classroom Teacher

Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Doctor Adelia, LLC, a Baltimore area private practice. Specializing in childhood anxiety disorders and ADHD, I am dedicated to raising awareness about Selective Mutism (SM). I have created PCIT-SM comic strips to provide education about SM to professionals, educators, and adults. I enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters, playing pickleball, hiking, and traveling. I am honored to participate in my fifth Camp, where brave children blossom!

Meredith Polsky, LCSW-C
M.S.Ed., she/her

Older Classroom Teacher

Hi! I'm excited to be teaching at Confident Kids Camp for the 4th time! As a licensed clinical social worker and special educator, I specialize in working with children and teens with Selective Mutism, a passion that emerged when my own children were diagnosed with SM as preschoolers. I am co-author of the I Have a Question children’s book series, which helps children and their caregivers grapple with challenging life transitions. In my spare time I love to read, run, do yoga, and spend quality time with my family (which usually involves great TV)!

Melissa Ruiz, ED.S., NCSP, she/her

Middle Class Co-Teacher

Hello! I am a school psychologist in Montgomery County Public Schools. I obtained my master's and Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology from Lehigh University and am a Nationally Certified School Psychologist. My interests include early intervention, positive psychology, response to intervention, and social-emotional learning. I enjoy time with my family, being outdoors, crafting, and reading. Excited to join the camp again, I look forward to the magic that camp brings as a Middle Classroom Co-Teacher!

Joanna Moskalis, M.P.S., she/her

Middle Classroom Co-Teacher

Hello! I earned a master's degree at University of Maryland and will be a 1st year Psy.D student at Hartford’s Graduate Institute of Professional Psychology. I served as a research assistant in the Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience Lab and Comprehensive Assessment and Intervention Program Lab at UMD and assisted in children's group therapy with the Resiliency Builder Program. I enjoy walking my dog Sunny, home projects, reading, working out, and gardening. I’m excited to be part of camp again, this time as a Middle Classroom Co-Teacher!

Brianca Wright, M.A
she/her

Administrative Support

Hi there! My name is Brianca Wright, a rising second-year counseling psychology Ph.D. student at Howard University. With a decade of experience working with children and their families, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the Confident Kids Camp. I enjoy traveling, skincare, Broadway, candles, and the bliss of sleep. I am thrilled to be a part of the camp and contribute to creating a supportive and fun environment for the kids. Looking forward to a fantastic camp experience!

Chloe Levin, LMSW-C, she/her

Camp Clinical Associate

Hi! I earned my masters in clinical social work and Certificate in Trauma Practice from Simmons School of Social Work in Boston. I practice as a LCSW-C in an elementary school-based setting through EveryMind, a Maryland mental health non-profit. Using cognitive behavioral therapy with art, play, and sandtray therapies, I support you with anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, ADHD, and Selective Mutism. I enjoy crafting, cooking, being active, and music. I've been a camp counselor twice, a younger classroom teacher in 2023, and will serve as a Clinical Associate this Camp!

Frances Cooke, B.A., she/her

Special Programs Coordinator

Hi! I am a first-year clinical psychology PhD student at Catholic University, focusing on youth mental health and chronic illness. In my spare time, I participate in a book club, explore the farmer's market, and play guitar. I’m thrilled to return to camp for my fourth year, serving as the Special Programs Coordinator, supporting the Junior Counselor Program and our Community Guests. This role allows me to combine my passion for psychology with my enthusiasm for helping children, making it a truly rewarding experience. I look forward to another amazing summer at camp!

Volunteer Counselors

Meet the Confident Kids Camp DC Metro Camp 2024 Team

Reem AlRabiah (She/her/hers)

I am a fourth year clinical psychology PhD student at George Washington University. My research and clinical work mainly center around anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD, and I am especially interested in working with immigrant and displaced communities. Outside of school, I like to hear and share stories, make all kinds of art, and learn new things. I am really excited to meet all the campers this summer!

Sarah Cimini (She/her/hers)

Hello! My name is Sarah and I am a first-year PhD student in the Clinical-Community program at George Washington University. I received my BA in Psychology from Cornell University where I began working with children. Since graduating, I have worked with many children and families dealing with anxiety and behavioral problems. In my free time, I like to run, read, and crochet! Can’t wait for camp!

Deborah Colimon (She/her/hers)

Hi! I am Deborah Colimon, a rising 2nd-year Clinical Psychology Ph.D. student at Howard University. My Bachelors of Science in Psychology is from Utah Valley University. I have provided direct ABA therapy to youth with special needs, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and anxiety in various settings. I love to travel, spend time with my nephew, and collect plants. I am excited for Confident Kids Camp this summer!

Margaret Cotter (She/her/hers)

Hi! My name is Margaret Cotter and I am in the psychological science Master’s Program at Catholic University. I have worked at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for 3 years and am a research assistant for the Suicide Prevention Lab at CUA. In my free time I enjoy reading, yoga, and gardening. I’m looking forward to camp and meeting everyone!

Ryan Dalton (He/him/his)

Hi! My name is Ryan and I am currently enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School. I am planning to major in psychology in college. I have previously assisted in treatment for youth with Selective Mutism. In my free time I enjoy playing soccer and baking sweet treats. I am excited to meet everyone at camp!

Mitch Engle (He/him/his)

Hi! I am a rising senior at Loyola University Maryland majoring in psychology with a minor in philosophy. I take an interest in intimate relationships, mating habits, and intersex dynamics, while dabbling in spirituality. I enjoy running and attending barre classes. I love adventures and exploring nature. I am delighted to be a part of Confident Kids Camp, and look forward to meeting everyone!

Zack Goldman (He/him/his)

Hi! My name is Zack, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am currently working in private practice, but, prior to this, I worked in a variety of settings. I love watching basketball (especially UCONN), tying out new places to eat, and exploring new areas. I am looking forward to meeting everyone and being a part of Camp!

Hannah Haledjian (She/her/hers)

Hi! My name is Hannah. I am a junior studying psychology and human development at the University of Maryland. I have experience working with children from all ages and have also worked in UMD's Family Involvement Lab for multiple semesters. In my free time I love to craft, hike, bake, and volunteer for the Guide Dog Foundation! I am so excited to join this amazing team this summer and meet all of the campers!

Carla Helena (She/her/hers)

Hello! My name is Carla. I am a Freshman Psychology major and Spanish Minor at Loyola Maryland University. I volunteered at a local Community Center while in highschool and I am volunteering at Casa De Marylands Mi Espacio program in the spring. I love listening to music, arts and craft activities, trying new restaurants and exploring. I look forward to camp and getting to interact with the campers and staff!

Jiuying (Sally) Jin (She/her/hers)

Hi! I'm Sally, a first-year student in the Clinical Psychology PsyD program at George Washington University. I earned my Master's in Art Therapy at the School of Visual Arts and worked as an art therapist. I have provided therapy and offered evidence-based treatments for children facing behavioral and emotional challenges. I enjoy art, hiking, and playing with my cat. I'm very excited to meet all the campers!

Kayla Kellner (She/her/hers)

Hi! My name is Kayla, and I am entering my first year as a Master's student at the University of Maryland, College Park. I am currently a lab coordinator for the Comprehensive Assessment and Intervention Program Lab at UMD, and I hope to ultimately earn my PhD in Clinical Psychology. I love sports, and in the evenings, I work as a referee for an adult volleyball league! I am super excited to join the team and get to create lasting memories with the campers this summer!

Alicia Lamkin (She/her/hers)

I am a rising senior at Scripps College in Southern California where I am studying psychology and minoring in Spanish. I hope to engage in research and clinical work with children and adolescents with internalizing disorders. During my free time, I love to spend time outdoors (especially with dogs!), explore bookstores, and play pickleball. I am thrilled to return for camp for a second year and cannot wait to meet everyone!

Racquel Lyons (She/her/hers)

Hi there! I am a second-year doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at The George Washington University. At Tulane University, my undergraduate coursework focused on childhood development and family dynamics. I have worked with youth at their most vulnerable stages supporting their growth through challenges. I love hikes, tennis, reading, and my puppy. I can’t wait to meet everyone at Confident Kids Camp!

Zakirra Mckinnon (She/her/hers)

Hi! I am Zakirra Mckinnon, a rising 3rd-year Clinical Psychology Ph.D student at Howard University. I earned a counselor of education degree at Georgia Southern University and my BS from Kennesaw State University, awarding me the opportunity to work with youth and their families. I enjoy working out, reading books for leisure, and trying new restaurants. I am so excited to serve with Confident Kids Camp!

Anna Missner (She/her/hers)

Hi! My name is Anna. I am a rising third-year in George Washington University’s PsyD program. I earned my B.A. in Psychology at Georgetown University. My clinical interests include providing services to youth with various challenges. In my free time, I enjoy tennis, yoga, and spending time with my family, friends, and dogs. I am thrilled to be a part of Confident Kids Camp for a 3rd camp and can’t wait to meet everyone!

Eemonie Moore (She/her/hers)

Hi all! I'm Eemonie, a first-year Clinical Psychology PsyD student at George Washington University. I have experience working with children in numerous settings facilitating conversations to inspire, motivate, and encourage children and their families. I enjoy reading, nature walks, and spending time with family. I am delighted to be a part of Confident Kids Camp to learn, help, and get to know all campers!

Emma Mugford (She/her/hers)

Hello! I’m Emma, a rising 3rd year doctoral student in Professional Psychology at GWU. My BA is from Gettysburg College in Psychology and Studio Art. I provide therapy in various settings with interests in identity development with neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ populations, and intersecting identities. I love being outdoors, painting, and my loved ones. I am looking forward to providing compassionate care this summer!

Jilli Nalibotsky (She/her/hers)

Hi, I’m Phuong! I earned my Master’s in Counseling at University of Pennsylvania and am a Clinical Psychology Doctoral Student at George Washington University. I have provided psychotherapy and assessments for adults and children in hospital, community mental health, and school settings. In my free time, I enjoy writing poetry, doing yoga, and trying new cuisines. I’m excited to get to know everyone at Camp!

Linda Nisanova (She/her/hers)

Hi! I am a 2nd year PsyD candidate at the George Washington University and obtained my Masters from Stony Brook University. I have experience in providing psychotherapy with adolescents and emerging adults, as well as administering neuropsychological assessments. During my free time, I love watching movies, playing video games, and long walks. I am super excited to learn and grow at the Confident Kids Camp!

Rylie Novak

Hi! My name is Rylie. I'm a rising Junior at the Catholic University of America, double-majoring in psychology and political science. I am the leader of several local political organizations, and I work as a nanny and tutor for kids ages 3-13 in the community. Off duty, you can find me unwinding with yoga or painting with friends. I am thrilled to volunteer at Confident Kids Camp for the first time this summer!

Chidinaobim (Dinobi) Nwodo

Hi, my name is Dinobi and I am a clinical psychology doctoral student at George Washington University with interests in children/ adolescents, women, and African populations. I enjoy creating and consuming art in most forms, especially poetry and painting. I am looking forward to meeting all the kids and volunteering at Camp this season!

Torie Tran (She/her/hers)

Hello! My name is Torie and I am a sophomore majoring in psychology at the University of Maryland (UMD). I am a research assistant for the Lavender Lab at UMD and I am the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in two organizations. In my free time, I love movies, music, and spending time with family and friends. I am very excited to be a part of this camp and meet all of the campers!

Rachel Walton (She/her/hers)

Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a second year doctoral student at George Washington University. I received my B.S. in Psychology at the University of Florida. I have provided psychotherapy and psychological testing to youth in various settings. I love being outdoors, spending time with friends and family, finding new places to eat, and traveling. I am so excited to meet everyone and be a part of Camp for the 3rd time!

Rachel Wax (She/her/hers)

Hi, I'm Rachel! In 2022, I earned an MPS in Clinical Psychological Science from The University of Maryland, College Park. Now, I am a licensed psychology associate working at a neuropsychology practice where I specialize in evaluating children. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, reading, and creating art. I look forward to joining camp this summer!

Cedric Williams (He/him/his)

Hi! I am Cedric Williams, a doctoral student in clinical psychology at Howard University. I have a BSc in psychology from Black Hills State University and Master of Social Work from the University of Minnesota. I completed assessments with clients, formulated tailored care plans, and guided them through medical systems. I enjoy reading, hiking, and photography. I am excited to grow with the campers this summer!

Molly Wollner (She/her/hers)

Hi! I'm Molly, and I am so excited to be working with camp this summer! I am a rising senior at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School, where I have just completed a course in Advanced Psychology. Working with children is one of my passions, and I have spent the last two summers as a camp counselor in the area. My hobbies are singing and dancing, and I am involved in various performance groups at my school. I can't wait to get to know you!

Megan Yockey (She/her/hers)

Hi! My name is Megan. I am currently a rising third year doctoral student in clinical psychology at The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. I have worked as an alcohol and drug counselor and mental health technician in the Air Force since 2013. I really enjoy working with children, and I look forward to Confident Kids Camp this summer. I am so thrilled to meet all the campers soon!

Volunteer Counselors

Meet the Confident Kids Camp DC Metro Camp 2023 Team

Phuong Bach

Hi, I’m Phuong! I earned my Master’s in Counseling at University of Pennsylvania and am a Clinical Psychology Doctoral Student at George Washington University. I have provided psychotherapy and assessments for adults and children in hospital, community mental health, and school settings. In my free time, I enjoy writing poetry, doing yoga, and trying new cuisines. I’m excited to get to know everyone at Camp!

Maegan Barber

Hello! My name is Maegan Barber, a rising 4th-year clinical psychology Ph.D. student at Howard University. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from The University of Michigan and my BA from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG). I have experience working to create mental wellness for children, adolescents, and families who have endured trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am thrilled to be a part of the Confident Kids Camp!

Nathan Butler

Hi! I’m Nathan and I just finished my first year at the University of Pittsburgh. I am majoring in Psychology. I have also spent a lot of time working with children with learning and physical disabilities. I enjoy spending time with friends, listening to music, and playing ice hockey! I am so excited to meet everyone at camp!

Breon Gaines

Hi! My name is Breon. I graduated from The George Washington University with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am an LGPC (Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor) at The Ross Center and The Phillips Program. I have experience with children and adolescents who have depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, and/or are on the Autism Spectrum. Some of my favorite hobbies are: playing tennis, spending time outdoors, and reading. I am excited to get to know everyone at camp!

Rohma Hassan

Hello! My name is Rohma Hassan and I'm a rising 4th year student at George Washington University's Professional Psychology Program. I have experience in working with children and adolescents with various concerns, such as ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and anxiety. I have worked in various settings, including outpatient hospitals, community mental health programs, and non-profit organizations. In my free time, I love to paint, explore nature, and attend festivals. I'm eagerly looking forward to Confident Kids Camp!

Cara Judkins

Hi! I’m Cara, a first-year student in the Clinical Psychology doctoral program at George Washington University. I obtained a BA in Psychology/Linguistics at University of Pittsburgh and worked as a Psychiatric Technician, providing group and other services to diverse adults and teens. I enjoy lifting weights, running, reading and playing with my puppy. I am excited to learn and grow with the campers at the Confident Kids Camp!

Serene Kaggal

Hi y'all, my name is Serene Kaggal. I am a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at George Washington University. I earned a BS in Psychology at Lamar University in Beaumont, TX, and have had the privilege of providing psychological assessments with older adults and teens in a private practice setting. I enjoy running, singing Bollywood/Indian songs, and spending time with my family and friends. I am excited to help the campers at Confident Kids Camp!

Alicia Lamkin

Hello! My name is Alicia, and I'm a rising junior at Scripps College in Claremont, California where I am studying psychology and Spanish. I am interested in working with children and adolescents with anxiety disorders. I love hiking, camping, and spending time with dogs! I am super excited for Confident Kids Camp, and I cannot wait to meet everyone.

Kiara Lemon

Hi! I am Kiara, a second year Clinical Psychology doctoral student (Psy.D) at George Washington University. I received my B.A in Psychology at the University of Virginia, where I spent three years working with children ages 2-6 in the Early Development Lab. I have significant experience working with children of all ages as a babysitter, camp counselor, research assistant, and clinician. In my free time I enjoy yoga, dance, reading, and discovering new restaurants. I am thrilled to be a part of the team for Camp this summer!

Anna Missner

Hi! My name is Anna and I am a first year Clinical Psychology doctoral (Psy.D.) student at George Washington University. I earned a B.A. in psychology from Georgetown University, and I have experience working with youth with anxiety and behavioral challenges. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, doing yoga, and spending time with my family, friends, and dogs. I am thrilled to be a part of Confident Kids Camp again and can’t wait to meet everyone!

Joanna Moskalis

Hello! I’m Joanna, a first-year master student at the University of Maryland. I am currently a research assistant in the Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience Lab and Comprehensive Assessment and Intervention Program Lab. I also am an assistant in children group therapy with the Resiliency Builder Program. In my free time I enjoy going on walks with my dog Sunny, attempting home projects, reading, working out, and gardening. I’m so excited to be part of Confident Kids Camp, not only to learn, but to meet and help all the campers!

Airyn Nash

Hello! My name is Airyn and I received my B.S. from the United States Military Academy in 2018. I served in the Army for four years before transitioning to graduate school. I am currently working on my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at the Uniformed Services University. I love to work with kids. I volunteer as a coach for Girls on the Run and a Sunday School teacher. I am excited to have an opportunity to share this journey with you at Confident Kids Camp!

Jung In Park

Hello! I'm Jung In and I graduated from Occidental College in 2020 with a BA in Psychology. I am currently a 2nd year student in the George Washington University Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program (Psy.D) and have experience working with people of all ages in psychotherapy and psychological testing through community mental health setting. In my free time I enjoy listening to music, reading, visiting art museums and visiting coffee shops!

Diana Priestley

Hi! My name is Diana, I’m a rising second year Clinical Psychology doctoral (Psy.D.) student at George Washington University. I earned a B.S. in biology and a minor in psychology from Penn State University. I have experience working as a camp counselor, and providing psychological assessments. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, ice skating, trying new recipes, and spending time with my friends and family. I’m so excited to meet everyone at camp!

Melissa Ruiz

Hello! My name is Melissa Ruiz and I am a school psychologist in Montgomery County Public Schools. I obtained my Masters and Educational specialist degree in School Psychology from Lehigh University and I am a Nationally Certified School Psychologist. My professional interests include early intervention, positive psychology, response to intervention, and social-emotional learning. I enjoy spending time with my family, spending time outdoors, crafting, and reading. I am so excited to be part of this great summer experience again and the magic that camp brings!

John Stitt

Hi! I'm John, a second-year doctoral student in the GW Professional Psychology (PsyD) program. I have provided psychotherapy and psychological assessment to adolescents and adults in community mental health and university counseling center settings. I love baking, puzzles, and tending to my plants. I am excited to get to know and support campers and their families!

Rida Taha

Hi! My name is Rida! I am an undergraduate student in my junior year majoring in psychology at UMBC. I intend to apply to medical school, specializing in psychiatry. I like to spend my leisure time creatively and trying new things. I love being involved in programs where I can help. Having the opportunity to work with an organization like Rockville Therapy center would be an honor and the highlight of my year.

Rachel Walton

Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a first year doctoral student (Psy.D.) at George Washington University. I received my B.S. in Psychology at University of Florida. I have worked with youth experiencing behavioral challenges, anxiety, and depression. I love being outdoors, running, playing with my cats, finding new places to eat, and traveling. I am so excited to meet everyone and be a part of Camp again!

Hannahlise Wang

Hi! My name is Hannahlise and I am a sophomore psychology major and violin performance minor at the University of Maryland. I currently work as a research assistant for the UMD ADHD Lab and am also a peer counselor for my university's crisis intervention hotline. In my free time, I love to play music, make travel montages, and go on outdoor adventures. I am so excited to be a part of this team and cannot wait to meet all of the campers!

Louise Weidner

I am a rising senior at American University in the Honors Psychology program. I work in the Interpersonal Emotion Laboratory on campus and am also an Intern at DC Health Psychology. My interest in psychology includes child and adolescent development and treatment methods for anxiety disorders. In my free time I foster pitbulls and run in my school's club cross country team. I am very excited to work with children at camp this summer.