By Jana Raphael-McDonough
This fall, the Sands Point Preserve Conservancy will host a new program called Just Moms, a weekly informational discussion group for parents of newborns to 12 months, created and facilitated by licensed therapists Amy L. Kates and Dr. Stacey G. Kaufman—who are also experienced moms.
Inside the preserve’s historic mansions, participants can meet fellow parents and share concerns during one-hour sessions on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. from Sept. 26 through Nov. 14.
According to the co-creators, “This program is designed to make moms more comfortable in their parenting roles and, at the same time, allow them the opportunity to meet other moms in their community.”
Kates is a former psychotherapist and clinical social worker who received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The University of Michigan and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from NYU. She has more than 20 years of experience in her field and is licensed to practice in New York State.
Kaufman earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The University of Pennsylvania and her Master’s Degree and Doctorate in Psychology from Yeshiva University. She is a New York State licensed psychologist who has extensive experience as a school psychologist and currently operates a private psychotherapy practice.
“We are delighted to offer this new resource for the community,” stated Sands Point Preserve Conservancy Managing Director Beth Horn. “Parenting newborns can be very complex. Amy and Stacey are uniquely qualified to offer guidance and support.”
Although the program is geared towards mothers who are looking to connect with other moms in the area, fathers are welcome to join. For more information, contact info@justmoms.net.
For general information, see www.SandsPointPreserve.org or visit the Welcome Center & Gift Shop at 127 Middle Neck Rd., Sands Point, NY.
The preserve is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; the Welcome Center is open at noon to 5 p.m. on weekdays, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
The Sands Point Preserve Conservancy is a nonprofit organization with the mission to maintain and operate the 216-acre waterfront grounds and historic mansions, and to provide a range of cultural and educational programs for families, adults and schools.
