JFS Staff | Shalom Austin

JFS STAFF

MEET OUR STAFF

Rabbi Amy B. Cohen, LMSW

Pronouns: she, her

JFS Executive Director / Chief Social Services Officer

In her role as CSSO, Rabbi Cohen’s focus is primarily on capacity building, seeking out new funding sources and opportunities to collaborate with relevant organizations in the greater Austin community to ensure highly effective continuity of Shalom Austin JFS services while enhancing collaborations between Shalom Austin JFS and Central Texas Jewish organizations, schools and synagogues.

Prior to joining JFS, Cohen served as the associate rabbi at Temple Beth Shalom. At TBS, Cohen oversaw extensive growth in educational programs and partnerships throughout the campus, while acting as a full member of their clergy team.

Raised in Sudbury, Massachusetts, she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in social work with a double major in Jewish history and civilization and a Master of Arts degree in social work from New York University. Cohen also earned master of religious education and master in Hebrew letters degrees from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. She completed her ordination as a rabbi at HUC-JIR in New York. Cohen received her license in social work from the state of Texas.

Qualifications

Education:
New York University, BA, MA
Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institution of Religion, MA

Professional Affiliations:
Hasidah
Central Conference of American Rabbis
Women’s Rabbinic Network

Audrey Burnett, LMSW

Pronouns: she, her, hers

Clinical Intake Specialist/Therapist

A born and raised Texan, Audrey Burnett has ten years of experience working with junior high and high school-aged youth. As a participant in the Gerontological Resources and the Aging Community in Education at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work, her social work internships focused on older adults where she gained experience and a passion for working with people dealing with grief and loss. Audrey’s therapeutic approach is person-centered and relational, and she hopes to help clients see themselves from a strength-based perspective.

Audrey earned her bachelor’s degree from Austin College and recently undertook a dual master’s degree, getting a Master of Divinity from Austin Theological Presbyterian Seminary and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin. She lives in Austin with her husband and dog, and they enjoy hiking, spending time with family, and traveling together. As the new Clinical Intake Specialist, Audrey is looking forward to helping clients connect with the resources and support they need. She is currently supervised by Arlene Montgomery, Ph.D., LCSW.

Qualifications

Education:
Austin College, BA
Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Steve Hicks School of Social Work, MSSW

Specialties:
Older Adults
Adolescents
Grief and Loss
Religion and Spirituality
Life Transitions
Relationships
Anxiety

Ezequiel P. Cotler

JFS Behavioral Health Billing Manager

Ezie is delighted to have become part of the Shalom Austin family as of February 2023. With over 15 years of experience in medical coding and billing, Ezie looks forward to growing with Jewish Family Services and Shalom Austin as they enter this exciting time of expansion. Before joining JFS, Ezie volunteered at a school for disabled children in Maplewood, NJ, worked for a pediatric practice in Millburn, New Jersey, and spent some time with the U.S. Army before attending Hobart and William Smith Colleges and graduating in 2007 with a double major in Performance and English. In addition to working with JFS, Ezie Cotler is a professional actor and Producer and is a founding member of the New York based Production Company Lotus Road, LLC.

Qualifications

Education:
Hobart & William Smith Colleges

Specialties:
Medical Billing and Coding

Christina Gietz, PhD, LPC-Associate

Pronouns: she, her, hers

Therapist 

Christina enjoys working with older adults on assisting them with finding meaning in life, end of life concerns, transiting to long term care, loss of autonomy, medical and mental health concerns, and processing life decisions. Christina has a variety of counseling and work experience that includes trauma informed care, working with children and children in the foster care system, parenting issues, domestic violence, coping with anxiety and depression. She values working collaboratively with her clients using a person-centered approach, that allows clients to be heard and process their thoughts and feelings. She also incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy when needed.  

Christina was born in Southern California and moved to Austin just before her senior year of high school. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from St. Edwards University. She then moved to Stillwater Oklahoma for her Master of Science in Community Counseling and PhD in Counseling Psychology.  

Christina enjoys spending time outside when it isn’t blazing hot with her husband and 2 dogs. They love traveling, spending time with family and friends, and small home projects. 

Qualifications

Education:
St. Edwards University, BS
Stillwater Oklahoma, MA,
PhD, LPC-Associate, Supervised by Emma Howitt, LPC-S, LCDC 

Specialties:
Adults
Older Adults
Life Transitions
Family Counseling
Anxiety
Depression
Adolescents

Alyssa Gilden, PhD, LSSP

Pronouns: she, her

Youth & Family Mental Health Director

Alyssa Gilden is a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP). She specializes in working with children and families to help all find new ways of tackling problems in order to live happier and healthier lives. Her approach to therapy involves a blend of cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and solution-focused techniques to create a collaborative and supportive environment in which children and families can better understand themselves and one another. She believes strongly that children and adolescents have much to communicate if we can listen openly, and she uses talk, play, and other creative means to facilitate communication. Through creating a safe environment in which to explore, she strives to empower children and families to use their inner strengths to solve problems and foster growth.

She works with children and adolescents of any age experiencing a variety of social and emotional challenges and their parents. She specializes in school-related problems, including depression, anxiety, school refusal, social and peer-related issues, and attentional or behavioral concerns. She has a strong background in family systems and family therapy, positive behavior management, and stress management. She knows that reaching out can be one of the hardest steps to getting help, and looks forward to hearing from and working with you and your family.

Alyssa earned her B.A. in sociology and B.S. in psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Go Tar Heels!). She earned her M.A. and Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. She completed her doctoral internship in clinical and school psychology with the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District and post-doctoral training in policy and administrative psychology with WICHE. Throughout her career, Dr. Gilden has focused on gaining experiences, knowledge, and understanding of working with children, adolescents, parents, and families from a variety of modalities and settings.

Qualifications

Education:
University of North Carolina, BA, BS
University of Texas, MA, Ph.D. 

Specialties:
Children (of all ages)
Family Counseling  
Anxiety
Learning Disabilities
Anger Management
ADHD/ADD
Play Therapy

Adam Hartmann

Pronouns: he, him, his

Disability and Inclusion Specialist

Adam Hartmann is a licensed teacher of students with disabilities and has more than 11 years of experience as a professional in education and non-profit organizations. A native Austinite, Adam went to the University of Texas at Austin and has worked in Austin, Manchaca, Del Valle, Cedar Park, Manor, and Round Rock. He left teaching in October 2022 to pursue working to grow the Disability and Inclusion department at JFS. He also works as an Activity Counselor in the Youth and Teen department at Shalom Austin. Adam is passionate about connecting people to the resources they need, disability right advocacy, and social justice. He also works to connect Shalom Austin with other organizations to find creative resources and establish mutual bonds, in order to improve the local community.

In his professional life, Adam works to understand members’ first-hand experiences and improve the inclusion and accessibility at Shalom Austin. He seeks to help individuals grow in their abilities of independence, self-advocacy, social and communication skills, vocational skills, daily living skills, and more. In his personal life, Adam enjoys spending time with his family and dog outdoors, swimming, biking, playing games with friends, discovering new music, chocolate, and cheese. His favorite holiday is Halloween.

Qualifications

Education:
University of Texas, BA

Specialties: 
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Vinnie Hogan

Vinnie Hogan

Pronouns: he, him, his

Transportation Specialist

Born and raised in Oklahoma City, Vinnie moved to Austin in 2011 upon completion of his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma City University. Vinnie enjoys being part of Congregation Beth Israel. He is passionate about helping people and finds joy in driving and in listening to people. Since 2014, Vinnie has created and led multiple crowdfunding campaigns and hopes to use these experiences to help the Shalom Austin Mobility program expand to assist even more people with their transportation needs. Vinnie lives in South Austin with his wife and two elementary aged daughters.

Qualifications

Education:
Oklahoma City University

Specialties: 
Transportation

Emma Howitt, LPC-S, LCDC

Pronouns: she, her

Senior Clinical Director

Emma brings more than ten years’ experience as a professional in non-profit organizations. Her counseling and therapeutic focus covers a range of needs, including individuals, couples and families dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, substance abuse, relationships, and life transitions. Emma is a person-centered therapist, which affords her clients a safe and non-judgmental environment to work on sensitive challenges. Emma works with clients to strengthen coping skills and advance goal achievement with compassion, support, and curiosity.

Originally from Houston, Emma earned her bachelor’s degree at Texas State University and her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at Yeshiva University. Emma began her career working in a number of inpatient and residential treatment settings focused on psychiatric and substance abuse issues. She joined Shalom Austin JFS as a therapist in 2016 and became a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor in 2019, allowing her to cultivate the development of new counselors in the field. Emma took the position of JFS Clinical Director in 2020, a role focused on the expansion of JFS clinical services in our community.

In her professional life, Emma is passionate about working directly with clients, supporting clinical staff, and facilitating group therapy sessions. In her personal life, she enjoys spending time with her family, baking, reading, exercise, and being in nature.

Qualifications

Education:
Texas State University, BA
Yeshiva University, MA

Specialties: 
Adults (18+)
Depression
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Intimate and Family Relationships
Life Transitions
Self-esteem
Substance Abuse

Hilary Katz

Pronouns: she, her

Case Management Director

Hilary is excited to be a part of the Jewish Family Service team. She offers 12 years of vast knowledge working with marginalized clients in various areas. Her understanding and mastery of the needs of those underprivileged and at risk is a great asset to the team.​ ​Her knowledge extends to the intensive case management services. Hilary has facilitated training in financial stability and led focus groups to educate both clients and staff.​ ​In addition to her excellent communication amongst her peers and employees, Hilary is skilled at problem solving and conflict resolution. She is also equipped with exceptional team management experience.​ ​She has managed $2M of funding and deliverables for state, city, and local grant-funded private and public programs. 

Born and raised in Dallas with her 3 sisters, Hilary has always been described as the most “sensitive and caring” sibling. She completed her college studies from St. Edward’s University where she earned her degree in human services. It was of no surprise to her family and friends that she would continue in a social work capacity. When Hilary is not working, you can find her outdoors hiking with her husband and running in Mueller with her dog, Summer. She spends a lot of time with her Austin sister and her 4 beautiful nieces playing rummikub, card games, and making her famous popcorn.

Qualifications

Education:
St. Edward’s University

Specialties:
Financial Stability
Problem Solving
Conflict Resolution

Maura Kinney, LCSW

Pronouns: they, them

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Maura is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who focuses on working with clients on the myriad ways grief can manifest in our lives: via loss of a loved one, relationship, or element of identity; via the experience of systemic oppression and identity-based rejection by family, community, or country; and/or via the grief associated with traumatic experiences past and present.

Maura comes to clinical social work via a background in theatre, sexuality education, and community organizing. They enjoy working with clients across the lifespan through a relational and psychodynamic lens. Maura uses their strong orientation towards justice and self-determination to work towards co-creating a therapeutic space that feels supportive based on each client’s history and needs.

Maura has received training in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions, and through Ample and Rooted’s Eating Disorder training program. When not at work, they enjoy writing and playing music, and working in their garden.

Qualifications

Education:
DePaul University, BFA
Smith College School for
Social Work, MSW

Specialties:
Adolescents
Adults
Grief and Loss
LGBTQIA+
Relational trauma
Identity development
Liberation health

Joan Maniere Headshot

Joan E. Maniere

Pronouns: she, her

Volunteer and Community Experience Director 

Joan is a licensed pediatric speech-language pathologist with previous experience working in sensory gyms, preschools, speech-therapy clinics, and homecare settings. Speech-language pathology was her first career. She recently retired from her second career as a House Manager (aka stay-at-home) after almost 10 years. However, the third time is a charm, and Joan recently joined the Shalom Austin team as the Volunteer and Community Experience Director. For Joan, this role is a culmination of her years of experience as an active participant in volunteerism and activism within and beyond the Jewish community. She has always been passionate about engaging others in volunteerism and community-based events. Joan could not have thought of a better fit for her dream job! 

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Joan earned a B.A. in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of Arizona in Tucson. When not working, Joan enjoys spending time with her husband, children, pets, and friends. Her hobbies include staying current and vocal on politics, reading, running, swimming, problem solving, consuming food made from the heart, and adopting puppies from dog rescues. 

Qualifications

Education:
University of Texas at Austin
University of Arizona in Tucson

Joan Maniere Headshot

Matt Medina

Pronouns: he, him, his

Adult Programs Coordinator

Born & raised in Austin, Matt can’t imagine living in any other city. He has worked at Shalom Austin since 2017, beginning Youth & Teen department and transitioned to the role of Adult Programs Coordinator in 2021. He has identified a passion for working with the Older Adult Community by cultivating bonds through cultural, social, and recreational programs. Matt is thrilled to work at JFS and build his portfolio of skills in problem-solving, data management, and engagement.

Matt received his Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Texas State University (Go Bobcats!). His hobbies include cooking, reading & playing Rummikub for hours on end!

Amanda Mills​, LCSW

Pronouns: she, they

Clinical Director

Amanda Mills is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) trained in EMDR, CBT, and body-based approaches. She works with individuals across the lifespan, with a focus on preteens, teens, and young adults. Her approach to therapy is highly collaborative and she enjoys working with concerns such as anxiety, stress management, self-esteem, identity, and current or past traumatic experiences.

She works to empower clients with knowledge about the brain and the body. She brings a trauma-informed, justice-minded perspective as she walks alongside her clients on their journey towards healing and growth. 

A born and raised Texan, Amanda received her Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys video games, creative writing, yoga, hiking, and cuddling with her cat.

Qualifications

Education:
University of Texas, MSSW

Specialties:
EMDR
CBT
Preteens 
Teens 
Young Adults
Anxiety 
Self-esteem
Trauma

Liron Ramon Headshot

Liron Ramon

Pronouns: she, her

Case Manager 

Liron is an experienced Gerontologist with a vast background in implementing case management plans in collaboration with patients and caregivers. She is experienced in conducting assessments of patients’ financial mobility and independence, educating and coaching them on developing a long-term solution for the betterment of their situation. Liron has led caregiver groups to educate and support caregivers as well and providing emotional support for patients. 

Born and raised in Israel, Liron is fluent in both English and Hebrew. She earned her master’s degree in Gerontology from the University of Ben-Gurion, Israel.   

Liron enjoys spending time with her family, baking, hiking, and traveling. 

Qualifications

Education:
University of Ben-Gurion, Israel, MA

Specialties:
Conflict Resolution
Financial Stability
Problem Solving

 

Shelly Russell, LCSW

Pronouns: she, her, hers

Therapist

Shelly has been providing clinical social work services in Austin for over 25 years. She has previous experience working in hospital and home health settings and has a passion for older adults. She enjoys working with clients from a strengths-based perspective on a variety of presenting concerns including self-discovery, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships and grief and loss.

Born and raised in the Dallas area, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Science degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington.​ ​

Shelly enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, reading and running around Lady Bird Lake.

Qualifications

Education:
University of Texas at Austin, BA
University of Texas at Arlington, 
MSSW

Specialties:

Older Adults (60+)

Self-Discovery

Anxiety 

Depression 

Life Transitions

Relationships  

Grief and Loss 

Emily Siegler, LPC

Pronouns: she, her, hers

JFS/Hillel Therapist 

Emily Siegler completed her undergraduate education at the University of Kansas and received a Master’s degree in Human Development Counseling at Vanderbilt University.  Emily has experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with chronic pain, severe mental health concerns, as well as facilitating mindfulness-based psychoeducational group therapy. Emily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and a sensorimotor approach in her work with clients as well as relational and mindfulness-based techniques.   

Emily is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate.

Emily recently moved to Austin from Nashville, TN. She enjoys Barton Springs, playing tennis and good ice cream.  Emily is excited to join the JFS/Hillel community! 

 

Qualifications

Education:
University of Kansas, BA
Vanderbilt University, M.Ed.

Specialties:
Adolescents
Adults 
Chronic Pain Management
Mindfulness 
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Matt Smith, LCSW

Pronouns: he, him

Therapist and Family Mediator

Matt Smith has worked for over fifteen years as a social worker and conflict mediator. As an individual therapist, his practical, supportive approach helps people build a greater sense of control in their lives. Matt is interested in the complexity of human identity – including age, race, religion, and gender and sexuality. Matt also works with couples and families in moments of conflict, or dealing with separation/divorce, helping them figure out a path forward.

Matt earned a B.A. in linguistics at Yale and a Master of Science in Social Work at U.T. Austin. He’s worked at local agencies like Shoal Creek Hospital and Out Youth, and he’s taught social work at U.T. Austin and Texas State. To learn more about family mediation, click here.

Qualifications

Education:
Yale University, BA
University of Texas, MSSW

Specialties:
Separation & Divorce
LGBTQIA+

Couples Counseling 
Family Counseling
Family Mediation
Life Transitions

Rachel VanScoyoc

Pronouns: she, her

Program Coordinator and Administrator

Rachel Moved to Austin 4 years ago by way of Colorado. She has spent the last 12 years working in various administrative roles and has loved them all. Rachel grew up at the JCC in Denver attending theatre camps every summer and then working for that same camp throughout her college years. She feels blessed to be able to be a part of the Austin Jewish Community. Working with the JFS team is a true joy and helping members of this amazing community in Austin is a dream come true. 

Rachel Wimberley

Rachel Wimberley

Pronouns: she, her

Older Adults Social Services Director 

Rachel has more than 15 years experienceas a professional in non-profit organizations. She brings previous experience working at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the University of Texas. She has honed years of constituency management and leadership skills within a highly sensitive subject matter. Rachel loves to deliver effective community-enhancing programming within the confines of challenging parameters. She enjoys working with older Adults and strives to provide programming that addresses the issues of Aging.

Rachel joined Shalom Austin as the Director of Adult Programs in 2017 and took the position of JFS Senior Social Service Director in 2022. Originally from Austin, Rachel earned her Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Central Arkansas. She has a Master of Arts from Johns Hopkins University and a Master of Arts in Jewish Professional Studies from the Spertus Institute. She is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Jewish Professional Studies at the Spertus Institute.

In her professional life, Rachel is passionate about connecting with constituents, creating community, and supporting the work of her colleagues. In her personal life, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family, running, hiking, and knitting. She hopes to learn how to play Mah Jongg soon.

Qualifications

Education:
University of Central Arkansas, BA
John Hopkins University, MA

Texas Public Complaint Notice

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council investigates and prosecutes professional misconduct committed by marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, psychologists, psychological associates, social workers, and licensed specialists in school psychology.  

Although not every complaint against or dispute with a licensee involves professional misconduct, the Executive Council will provide you with information about how to file a complaint. Please call 1-800-821-3205 for more information. 

For assistance please contact: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council 

Please note we are not a 24/7 crisis center. If you have a mental health emergency, please call (512) 472-4357 [HELP]. 

Rachel VanScoyoc

Rachel VanScoyoc

JFS Office Manager

O (512) 250-1043
jfs@shalomaustin.org

CONTACT US