Our Team
Lori A. Sweetwood, Psy.D.
Dr. Lori is President and Founder of Challenges – and is proud of the fact that we have touched many lives since opening in 1997. She has about a billion interests – and brings many of them to the office, a place where books, dogs, art, jars of sea glass and treats made with stuff from the garden are ready to be shared. Be ready – a session might include walking around a lake, creating something artistic, being read a special poem, or having an exciting new insight. And for sure, anyone who comes in our door can count on a laugh, a hug or a great chat with Gina as well!
Gina Russomanno
Gina Russomanno has been the Practice Manager for Challenges for almost 14 years. She is responsible for streamlining the operations of Challenges and Dr Lori’s private practice which includes personnel mgt, payroll, and scheduling, as well as overseeing marketing and being the point person for all. She prides herself on being available to anyone who needs her, and always in a prompt and considerate way. Her goal is to make all those she comes into contact with feel they are cared about. She is committed to “walking that walk”. Gina’s joys are found in family, friends, and don’t forget her two black labs!
Jo DiChiaro
Jo is the Billing Supervisor for Challenges alongside her husband, Sal. She has been a biller for over 40 years and has been a part of Challenges for over 20. She takes care of the billing in both Dr. Lori’s private practice and Challenges. In her and Sal’s spare time, they enjoy spending time with their grandchildren and cooking up remarkable Italian feasts!
Kyle Tintle
As our Marketing Director, we rely on Kyle for ideas and her special brand of kindness and grace. With a strong background in Customer Service and Human Resources at Polaroid then Driftwood Hospitality Management working with the Director of Development, Kyle honed the skills intrinsic to navigating the complexities of Marketing that have stood Challenges in good stead. It is notable that she has received special training to become an Autistic Friendly Business Partner – this tells you a lot about the kind of person she is. Kyle celebrates God, loves being in the sun, and is happiest in the company of friends and family.
Kristen Deeken, PMHNP-BC
Kristen, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and part owner of mentalflex.net, is our best referral source for psychiatric medications.
Kristen works hand in hand with us when we share patients, to insure you get the best possible continuity of care. She provides: Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, and Genetic Testing. Kristen interned at Challenges so we learned first hand what a skilled clinician she is. Feel free to contact her through our office or directly at: 732-860-8732. Kristen accepts most insurances.
Leighann Ertle
Leighann Ertle worked for Challenges full time doing marketing, cultivating new facilities and doctors to join our practice, and continues on as a consultant while pursuing new business horizons. Leighann also runs a non-profit Color Guard and is the mother of the sweetest Rottweiler on the planet!
Tootsie
Toots will happily greet you at the door and invite you to admire her many toys. As you can see from her picture, she feels right at home – and wants you to feel that way too! Toots, a therapy dog, is gentle and sweet, and will offer comfort to those who need and/or desire it. Any concerns? Please notify the office and they will be removed from the treatment area for the course of your session!
Dan White
Daniel White is the accountant for Challenges. He is a Certified Public Accountant with over 20 years experience in the accounting field. Dan is a graduate of Rowan University, earned a Master of Business Administration from Monmouth University, and donates his time to various non-profit organizations. In his spare time he enjoys being with his two daughters.
PS – We LOVE Dan and recommend him to anyone seeking a brilliant, reliable and responsive accountant!