About Us - Kids First

OUR STORY

We didn’t set out to be big. We set out to be great.

What started out in a Rockland County school as a single therapy service, expanded to the all-encompassing agency that we are today.

Beyond labels and terms, we see every child for who they are. We are here to elevate them—strengths, weaknesses, whimsies, and habits—so they can sparkle and glow. We’re here to reveal the treasure within, hidden behind layers of perceived imperfections. That’s our promise. That’s how we build a brighter future.

Yet no matter the array of services we provide, it all comes down to the kids. For them, we bring the most skilled therapists in the field. For them, we strive for excellence. For them, we can, we will, and we do.

OUR Mission

Building a brighter future

Our goal is to help every child reach their full potential. We guide them along as they learn, discover, and grow. With tools in hand, they move toward hopes and dreams. We do it all with empathy and kindness, without stigma or superiority. Every child has our unwavering support as they learn to overcome their weakness and learn to soar.

All we see are astonishing possibilities. The pitfalls along the way don’t faze us; instead, they increase our determination. We sail past them to help the kids strive, thrive, and surpass every goal.

Quality

We provide services rendered with excellence and grace. Our therapists are the elite of their class and the experts in their fields. They’re laser-focused on making a difference, changing worlds one by one.

Perspective

We determine our strategy using the big picture. Our team keenly observes the matter at hand, studying every factor, and then utilizing their areas of expertise to implement the solution.

Destigmatization

We’re bent on effecting major change in our industry. Our ultimate goal is the wholeness of an inclusive world. We work to eliminate shame or embarrassment, only fostering a sense of normalcy and hope.

Our Leadership Team

Our people: proficient, passionate, powerful.

Meet the leaders behind our success. Our people are world-class in professionalism, expertise, and empathy. With heart and soul, ambition and skill, they work together to help your child achieve greatness.

Shraga Gold

Founder & CEO

Shraga Gold is on a mission to provide better and more attainable therapy services to our community. As the CEO and Founder of Kids first, he is the driving force behind the company’s vision and growth. His passion has brought the company from its humble beginnings to its current renowned status. Shraga uses his don’t-stop attitude and creative problem-solving skills to steer Kids First toward ambitious endeavors. His positive energy and belief in others’ potential shapes the company culture, making for a constant upbeat atmosphere throughout the Kids First hallways. Shraga’s background in working with mentally disturbed teens, training in various therapy modalities, and creating a renowned remedial program used today in many Rockland County schools, has outfitted him with the experience and empathy he exudes while leading the community’s foremost therapy agency.

Jared Herzberg

Chief Operating Officer

As the COO of Kids First, Jared Herzberg leads the company’s day-to-day operations. He works with department heads to ensure flawless processes and satisfied clients and to ascertain that all actions run parallel with the company values. Jared uses his kindness, warmth, and humor to help employees grow in their positions. He has spent the last 10 years in the healthcare industry, cementing his place as a tireless emissary for individuals in need. Foremost, Jared appreciates his position in that he can support others. With his compassion and strategic work ethic, Jared helps others flip their perceived “problems” into their great assets.

Sara Lebovits

Director of Human Resources

Sara Lebovits is the Director of Human Resources, a position that helps her fulfil her commitment to helping kids and their families. Her day-to-day involves recruiting skilled, passionate members for the team, enacting a pleasant company environment, and charting clear paths of communication. Surie appreciates the unique privilege her position provides that she is able to empower her team to strive for greatness.

Nechama Katz, LMSW

Director of General Services

Nechama Katz graduated with a master’s degree in social work from the Wurzweiler School of Social Work. As the Director of General Services, she oversees all aspects of Occupational, Speech, and Psychotherapy services. Her accomplishments are many, including improving customer service, enhancing the therapist culture, and providing growth opportunities for the Kids First team members. Nechama has created various progress-focused training and internship programs. Under her leadership, team growth has thrived. She’s the team rock, helping them do their jobs better by smoothing issues, providing a listening ear, and enhancing the overall company culture. Nechama’s propelling power is helping the children get the help they need.

Courtney Baxter

Compliance Officer

Haley Ekroth

Director of ABA Operations

Tia Askew

M.S, BCBA-LBA, ABA Clinical Director

Join our team

Surround yourself with the elite. We’re looking for people who excel at their jobs and bring with them a powerful passion to get the job done.

Apply Now

ABA and Related Therapy Services across New York

Our goal is to help every child reach their full potential. We guide them along as they learn, discover, and grow. With tools in hand, they move toward hopes and dreams, we do it all with empathy and kindness.

PHYSICAL LOCATIONS

Spaces that embrace

Rockland County, NY

20 Robert Pitt Dr, Monsey, NY 10952
(845) 425-2299

New York City

We are now servicing the New York City area
(718) 475-6999

Western New York

100 Corporate Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14226
(716) 775-2299

Alaska

AKaba@kidsfirstservices.com
9027022299

Georgia

Georgiainfo@kidsfirstservices.com
9127342299

More locations
coming soon

Words of appreciation

“We searched for an occupational therapist specializing in children for months before we found Kids First. We’re so glad we did! The therapists and staff have been wonderful and have offered amazing service..”

Rivky G.

Having a child with behavioral disorders can be challenging. We’re so grateful to the compassionate therapists at Kids First. They’ve been there to help our family move forward one step at a time. Literally life-changing.”

Gabby R.

“Kids First has been such a relief for my son! After going through several therapists, we’re glad to have found a group of friendly, understanding professionals who were willing to patiently walk with us every step of the way. Great therapists and great work.”

Sam P.

Help your child reach greatness.

We’ll be right here to guide you along. With expertise and heart, we’re here to help your child grow.

Get Started

EMPLOYMENT

Become part of the team