Personal development of staff
Ronald Becker, MSSW, LCSW, CEAP – Director
Ronald Becker has over 25 years experience in the field of mental health. Prior to joining Saint Peter’s University, he was the Director of Behavioral Health Services for Christ Hospital’s Behavioral Health Center in Jersey City. He has provided and supervised psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, families, and groups, throughout his professional career.Ron received his Master’s degree in clinical social work from Columbia University and his undergraduate degree from Saint Peter’s University. While an administrator at Christ Hospital, he developed and supervised several specialized programs directed toward students. These programs provided mental health and substance abuse education, support groups, and staff consultation to various New Jersey community schools.Ron has been a consultant to both schools and corporations on topics including coping with stress, eating disorders, and time management.
Colleen Szefinski, LPC, LCADC, CCS – Assistant Director
Colleen received her Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Saint Peter’s University and her Masters in Counseling Psychology from Frostburg State University in Frostburg Maryland. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor.Prior to joining the Center for Personal Development, Colleen worked in the behavioral healthcare field for fifteen years. Recently, she worked at Northwest Essex Community Mental Health Center in Bellville for 2.5 years where she supervised staff providing services to people with mental illnesses and substance abuse issues. She started her career at Catholic Community Services, where she worked for 12.5 years providing an array of counseling services, as well as managing and developing addiction programs. She has worked with adolescents and adults, and has interfaced with many community agencies, including school systems, DYFS, drug treatment programs, the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, and the criminal justice system.
