Meet the Counselors
New York City Campus
Michael Schneider, LMSW
Director
Michael received his master’s degree from Fordham University and has worked in the education field for 23 years. Before starting as associate director in 2008, Michael worked in a K-12 school district for ten years. He has had the unique perspective of working with students from kindergarten all the way through graduate school. In 2005, Michael became the director of counseling and wellness and continues to enjoy working with his talented staff.
Office: 33 W. 60th St. , 3rd floor
Email: mschne01@nyit.edu
Phone: 212.261.1773
Lynzee Medina, LMSW
Associate Director
Lynzee received her Master of Social Work from Columbia University in 2020. Her past experience includes working in community mental health with a focus on trauma-informed therapy. Lynzee is passionate about supporting students and has a particular interest in helping students navigate the intersectionalities of being first-generation and the additional complexities that come with pursuing higher education. Lynzee was born and raised in Los Angeles, and enjoys photography and traveling.
Office: 33 W. 60th St. , 3rd floor
Email: lmedin02@nyit.edu
Phone: 212.261.1755
Long Island Campus
Christine Alter, LCSW
Associate Director
Christine holds a master’s in Social Work from Columbia University. She has over 30 years of clinical experience working with diverse populations in various settings. Christine uses a multi-model approach to empower students to build on their inner strengths and improve their overall well-being. She encourages students to practice mindful self-compassion and to become their own inner ally. Christine enjoys reading and staying active.
Office: Student Activity Center, room 305
Email: calter@nyit.edu
Phone: 516.686.7703
Esther Lenderman, LCSW
Associate Director
Esther’s warm and gentle presence provides a welcoming space for students to feel present and understood from their first meeting onward. Her direct, collaborative, and solution focused style invites students to share and broaden their perspectives and navigate challenges. Esther emphasizes confidentiality, safety, honesty, and transparency in her therapeutic approach. Esther brings attention to unhelpful thought patterns or behavioral patterns and provides the tools to manage them. Esther received her Master in Social Work from Stony Brook University. Esther specializes in working with those seeking assistance with anxiety, identity questions, life transitions, interpersonal issues, and relationship concerns.
Office: Student Activity Center, room 305
Email: elenderm@nyit.edu