Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center Team
At ºÙºÙÊÓƵ’s Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center, we know that having multiple sclerosis (MS) affects more than just your physical wellbeing. It impacts many facets of your life, including how well you get around, your ability to remain in the workforce, and your mental outlook.
That’s why every affected person and his or her family meet with specialists who can address the different challenges of living with multiple sclerosis. These specialists include our neurologists, psychologists, and urologists, as well as the following members of our care team.
Neuropsychologist
Leigh E. Charvet, PhD
Dr. Charvet is a clinical neuropsychologist and director of MS research. She received her doctorate from Vanderbilt University and completed an internship at VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven Campus, and Yale Epilepsy Program, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Stony Brook Medicine. Her primary research activities focus on cognitive changes associated with MS in both adults and children, along with cognitive remediation and other approaches to improve functioning and prevent decline. Her recent research includes a program for remotely supervised transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to alleviate MS symptoms of fatigue, cognitive slowing, and motor deficits. Learn more about Dr. Charvet.
Nurse Practitioners
Carrie Lyn Sammarco, DrNP, FNP-C, MSCN
Dr. Sammarco received her doctor of nursing practice degree from the Columbia University School of Nursing. She joined the MS Comprehensive Care Center team in 2010. Dr. Sammarco specializes in the management of highly complex MS symptoms and has a special interest in incorporating mindfulness techniques into her practice.
Jennifer Abate, DNP, FNP-BC, APHN-BC, MSCN
Dr. Abate received her doctor of nursing practice degree from New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing. She joined the MS Comprehensive Cancer Center in 2015. Dr. Abate has additional training in holistic and palliative care. She strives to provide individualized care plans that match each patient’s values and goals.
Gabriella Brogna, AGPCNP-BC
Melissa Docteur, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Melissa is a board-certified nurse practitioner. She received her master of nursing practice degree from Hunter College School of Nursing. At the MS Comprehensive Cancer Center, Melissa specializes in the management of psychiatric conditions and mental health concerns that are often associated with MS. In her practice, she strives to implement a holistic approach that incorporates different psychotherapy modalities and medication management.
Registered Nurses
Lisa Laing, MSCN, BSN, RN
Lisa is a registered nurse certified in the care of people with MS. She is the senior nurse clinician and has 25 years of experience and expertise in providing education and symptom management strategies.
Richard Del Pino, BSN, RN, MSCN
Richard is an MS-certified registered nurse with three years of experience working with MS patients. Richard helps provide disease education, including symptom management techniques, and assists in providing high-quality medical care to our patients.
Emily Meyer, MSCN, MSN, RN
Emily is an MS-certified nurse with seven years of experience working with MS patients and their families. She provides education about medications and symptom management. She is most passionate about assisting patients with care coordination and providing support to help patients achieve their highest quality of life.
Laura Mendez, BSN, RN
Laura joined the MS Comprehensive Care Center in 2021. As part of the team, she provides education to children, adolescents, and adults who have multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating conditions. She also educates and counsels parents and guardians on a variety of issues, including symptom management and treatment, while reminding them that MS will not be an obstacle in their child’s future. Her goal as a nurse is to explain the complexities of MS while communicating in a meaningful and caring way.
Social Worker
Rachel Decker, LMSW
As a licensed master social worker (LMSW), Rachel provides comprehensive support to individuals living with multiple sclerosis. She offers counseling and supports services tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Rachel works closely with patients and their families to connect them with valuable resources in the community, ensuring they have the tools and support necessary to navigate their journey with MS.
Contact Us
For more information, or to make an appointment, please call 646-501-7500.