Staff Spotlight Home

Today we’re proud to spotlight our incredible East Setauket Music Therapy Team, led by Meghan Obermuller, LCAT, MT-BC, and Samantha Monteleone, MA, MT-BC. Through their expertise, creativity, and compassion, Meghan and Sam create engaging, supportive environments where children can grow, connect, and express themselves through music every day. Under their guidance, Lauren, our AFC Music Therapy Intern and a Music Therapy student at Molloy College, recently presented on her internship experience at Alternatives for Children. We would also like to highlight our music therapists Eliza Stoehrer, BS, MT-BC, who is located in our Dix Hills site, and Kayla Clark, MMT, MT-BC who treats in our out east sites. They enrich the lives of students daily, providing dynamic and immersive music therapy experiences. We are so thankful for their expertise!

Ellen Kanfer joined Alternatives for Children in October 2013 as a teacher at our Melville location. Since moving to Dix Hills, she has expanded her impact as both educator and mentor, consistently modeling dedication, professionalism, and compassion. She created a safe, nurturing classroom where students can learn and thrive, and she skillfully connects with diverse learners while always prioritizing student needs. Her kindness and sense of humor help build strong relationships with families and strengthen school-community partnerships. In March 2020, Ellen became an IEP Coordinator, where she continues to advocate tirelessly to ensure students receive appropriate supports and services. She is a valued colleague who is always ready to assist others and is deeply respected by staff and families alike. We are grateful for her ongoing commitment and the positive impact she makes every day.

Janice Milusich is AFC’s Teacher for the Visually Impaired and a highly celebrated children’s author. She just published her newest picture book, I Hear the Snow, I Smell the Sea, which highlights inclusive storytelling and sensory-rich experiences for children of all abilities. By day, Janice works closely with preschool students who are visually impaired or blind, supporting their learning, development, and access to meaningful experiences. Her book reflects the same creativity, care, and understanding she brings to every child she teaches, making it a wonderful resource for families and educators alike.