In New York State, Marriage and Family Therapists are mental health professionals- we are the specialists in relationship therapy, and are trained and have experience with mental health issues. This uniquely places us in a position to understand the dynamics between the individual and the relationship. 

Licensed MFTs have completed thousands of hours with clients, 50% of which are relationship cases- those that involve more than one person in the room. No other mental health specialist- social work, mental health counselors, psychologists- is trained to this level in relationship work unless they pursue additional certifications and/or licensure in our field. 

Alkira’s LMFTs believe therapy should be a socially just, hopeful, and research-efficacy based experience. Alkira LMFTs have the same level of training and experience with couples and families upon licensure, and are skilled at understanding and mobilizing the dynamics of your relationships to help with change and healing. Many are trained in Gottman Practices or Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) or both. Almost all have experience and training in play therapy and trauma informed child therapy.

When you choose a Licensed MFT from Alkira for your relationship, you are choosing an expert in our field. Each LMFT has their specialized interests- many are trauma treatment certified, have experience/training in sex therapy, and all are experienced and trained in gender affirmative care and LGBTQ+A safe.  Please read through the bios and if you are searching for something specific just ask!

When you choose an Alkira LMFT, you are choosing a compassionate, skilled, and sensitive professional dedicated to creating safe space for you and those you love.

Alkira Leadership

Jill Weldum, President

Pronouns: she/her

Jill is the president and founder of Alkira Marriage and Family Therapy, P.C., is licensed to practice in New York State, and is a Certified Child Play Therapist (CCPT). Jill is a clinical member and approved supervisor of AAMFT, the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

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Natasha Ramroop-Walker, M.A., LMFT, CAS  Clinical Director

Pronouns: she/her

A graduate from Syracuse University, Natasha has been in practice for seven years. In addition to working as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Natasha has expertise working with individuals, children/adolescents, and families experiencing conflict issues, domestic violence, and trauma. As program coordinator at a local agency, she oversaw programs to help children and adolescents with behavioral issues and problematic sexual behavioral issues.

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Tina Iaccovissi, M.A., LMFT, CCPT
Pediatric Specialist, Supervisor Candidate

Pronouns: she/her

Tina completed her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Northcentral University. Tina offers support and guidance to individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with issues that affect their relationships, mental health and well-being. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, Tina believes that all relationships have the potential to impact well-being. Her therapeutic approach highlights and develops client’s strengths to assist in helping with change and healing. Tina’s previous experiences in the work world and family life contribute to her focused and compassionate approach to therapy.

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Kristin Ressel-Dickerson, M.A., LMFT, CAS, GC-C
Senior Clinician, Supervisor Candidate

Pronouns: she/her

Kristin Ressel-Dickerson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and clinical supervisor at Alkira. Kristin completed her Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Syracuse University, earning a certificate of advanced study in trauma-informed practices and receiving additional training to work with members of the LGBTQ+ population, including writing letters of support for clients seeking gender-affirming care. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, life transitions, and grief

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Licensed Staff

Efrain Agama, M.A., LMFT

Pronouns: he/his

Efrain earned his Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, from Syracuse University. Efrain is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of clinical experience. He also provides clinical services at Liberty Resources Integrated Health Care-Behavioral Health. Efrain is Bilingual, providing therapy in both English and Spanish.

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Emily Lavin, LMFT

Pronouns: she/her

Emily earned her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy along with a Certificate of Advanced study in Trauma-informed Practice from Syracuse University. She is a warm, compassionate, and intuitive therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families. Emily utilizes EFT and Gottman practices in her work with couples.

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Elaine Morgan, LMFT

Pronouns: she/her

Elaine is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and works with individuals, couples, and families. Elaine provides emotional and psychological support for those experiencing Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Self-Harm/High Risk Behaviors, and challenges in partnered relationships. She is experienced in providing support to adolescents and their families as they navigate peer pressure, academic pressure, and misunderstandings in communication.

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Forde Kay, LMFT

Pronouns: he/him

Forde is licensed to practice in the state of New York. He is a graduate from the Syracuse University Marriage & Family Therapy Department with an Advanced Certificate in Trauma Studies. Forde works with individuals, couples, and families to build stronger foundations of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, communication, and interpersonal skills.

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