Mindful Kid

Our Providers

 

Lea DeFrancisci Lis, M.D.

Medical Doctor

Dr. Lea DeFrancisci Lis is a double board certified Adult and Child psychiatrist and Assistant Clinical Professor at New York University School of Medicine. Throughout her career, Dr DeFrancisci Lis has advocated for better care for children at both the professional and political level. Dr. DeFrancisci Lis graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from Dartmouth College. She received her Medical Degree from New York Medical College where she was awarded the Stephen P. Jewett Memorial Award and Scholarship for Excellence in Psychiatry.

Dr. DeFrancisci Lis completed her adult residency at Saint Vincent’s Hospital, New York. Dr. DeFrancisci Lis is also a member of both the APA’s National Ethics Committee as well as a member of the New York County District Branch Ethics Committee. These committees review the conduct of their members as well as create and evaluate APA policies on ethical issues. Dr. DeFrancisci Lis serves as a member of the Board of Trustees of the APA. She has presented numerous symposia and workshops at the American Psychiatric Association annual meetings as well as meetings of the Institute of Psychiatric Services.

Dr. DeFrancisci Lis published “The Impact of Trauma on Children” in the Journal of Psychiatric Practice, March 2003 as well as “Mentorship in Psychiatric Residency Programs” in the Journal of Academic Psychiatry July 2009 and continues research in her field. Dr. DeFrancisci Lis will bring together research supported evaluations with an individualized and family centered approach to provide the best care for your family.

 

JESSICA JACOB SABU, PMHNP-BC, CCRN

Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a deep commitment to supporting individuals across the lifespan. I have extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, and ADHD, and I bring a compassionate, evidence-based approach to every patient encounter.

I am a graduate of Adelphi University's Master of Science program, and an IDEATE fellow. I also obtained specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). This allows me to guide our sessions with evidence-based practices. My services include medication management and individualized therapy sessions. With several years of nursing experience in diverse clinical settings—including critical care and substance use treatment—I developed a strong foundation in patient-centered care. My passion for mental health was solidified during my time on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, where I witnessed firsthand the toll of stress, anxiety, and burnout on both patients and healthcare professionals. This pivotal experience inspired me to advance my training in psychiatry to help bridge the gap in access to high-quality mental health care. I

I have a particular interest in working with children and young adults, and I strive to create a supportive, collaborative environment where patients and families feel heard and empowered. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, and continuously learning about new topics and innovations in mental health.

 

Jennifer McIntosh, PhD, PMHNP-BC, CNE, NEA-BC

Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner

Understanding that seeking care can be a significant step, my goal is to create a safe, trusting environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. I am Jennifer McIntosh, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, and I am here to support you on your journey to mental well-being.

With over 17 years of nursing experience, in addition to serving in clinical leadership roles, I have had the privilege of caring for individuals in emergency departments and behavioral health settings. My academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the New York Institute of Technology, a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Healthcare Systems Management from Loyola University, and both a Master of Science as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing from Adelphi University.  

I am also passionate about education. I serve as a faculty member for nursing programs in New York and Connecticut. My involvement in scholarly work, including publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and international conferences, reflects my commitment to improving mental health care practices and outcomes.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in trauma-informed and humanistic care principles, partnering with individuals on their healing journey to build trust and create a safe, compassionate space for care. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps individuals resolve trauma in a non-invasive manner, often within 3 to 5 sessions.    

I look forward to working with you, ensuring that the care you receive is collaborative, respectful, and aligned with your unique needs and goals. It is my privilege to support you and partner with you on your journey to healing and well-being.

Brittany Cook, LMSW

Clinical social worker & therapist

Trauma and mental health challenges can affect how you think, feel, and connect—with others and with yourself. You may feel stuck in survival mode—constantly anxious, emotionally shut down, overwhelmed, or unsure of why certain patterns keep repeating. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and healing is possible. I’m Brittany, a Licensed Social Worker with over eight years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate mental health challenges.

I specialize in evidence-based treatment and trauma-informed therapy, helping clients navigate complex trauma, mood and personality disorders, co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges, emotional dysregulation, loss, and behavioral difficulties. My approach integrates research-based interventions with empathetic, holistic, client-centered care.

In therapy, I offer a safe, empathetic, and collaborative environment where you can explore what’s been holding you back and begin healing at your own pace. My work is client-centered, deeply rooted in trust and respect.

Cristina Greeven Cuomo

Nutrition Health Coach

Cristina Cuomo is an integrative nutrition health coach. She is a graduate of Cornell University’s School of Arts and Sciences as well as the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She is also the founder and editor of PURIST, an online and in-print media platform and podcast, which has covered health and wellness since 2017. As a magazine editor and journalist for 30 years, Cuomo launched, worked at, or ran publishing houses such as Interview magazine, Manhattan File, Modern Luxury magazines like Manhattan, Hamptons and Los Angeles Confidential, and hosted shows at Plum TV and PBS’ Best Places to Live. Cuomo has three children, Bella, Mario and Carolina with her husband, Chris Cuomo, who is an anchor at News Nation.

Cuomo offers health coaching to families in the community who struggle with establishing good nutrition and health habits for long-term well-being. 

Advocacy & Media

Just in! Check out Dr. Lea’s Journey here:
https://boldjourney.com/meet-lea-lis

Modern Luxury - 6/29/15


ABC - 1/09/08

ABC world news with Charles Gibson: Expert on teenage physical abuse


Psychiatric News - 2/1/08


ABC News Now - 10/21/07

Parenting Perspectives: Expert on parents talking to teens about sex


Chicago Tribute - 9/3/07

Quoted in article: Children of real or would-be president face challenges: Expert on mental health


WNBC News 4 You - 8/2/07

Parent to Parent segment: Expert on parenting a child with separation anxiety


Psychiatric News - 4/20/07


Psychiatric News - 2/2/07

Opinion Editorial: Mentors can change your life


Hallmark Channel - 11/06/06

New Morning Show:  Expert on parenting with integrity