Pictured: L-R first row: Staff members of The Counseling Center, Virgil Roberson and Jennifer Klein; back row: Jennifer Jordan and Jim Ellis

By Ellen Edwards, Board Member

Oct. 13, 2021: An enthusiastic crowd gathered at the Field Club on October 3rd to celebrate Oktoberfest and raise funds to support the work of The Counseling Center. A gorgeous evening with perfect temperatures ensured that this in-person event, held outside under an open tent, was especially appreciated by guests who came to support The Counseling Center and stayed to enjoy the wine and German beer, German-inspired food, and pop rock hits played by Phil Wiser and Jon Waggoner of Big Sexy.

Sessa von Richthofen, Nicola Beel, and Simone Kane came in lovely Oktoberfest costumes, and by the end of the evening, reluctant to leave, many were dancing to the fantastic electronics of Casey Land. Executive Director Virgil Roberson and Clinical Director Jennifer Klein were spotted among them.

The Counseling Center sends a heartfelt thank you to the Bronxville businesses that provided generous gift cards or baskets for its raffle: A wine basket from Bronxville Wines & Spirits; a cheese basket from Dobbs & Bishop; and spa services from Maison Rouge.  Special thanks as well to the staff of the Field Club, especially to manager Lori Sahagian, whose assistance ensured a fun, Covid-safe event.

Sessa von Richthofen (left) and her sister Nicola Beel

The on-going pandemic has resulted in a greater demand for the mental-health services of The Counseling Center, a non-profit organization that offers help for individuals and couples, adults and children of all ages.  Its excellent staff, known for its expertise and collegial rapport, provides both in-person and teletherapy (video and phone) sessions; it has offices in the Reformed Church of Bronxville and in other Westchester locations. The comfort, reassurance, and insight offered by The Counseling Center’s experienced therapists during the on-going pandemic have helped people who are truly suffering as well as those who seek guidance to navigate challenging transitions.

Through the generous and consistent support of its many donors, The Counseling Center is able to subsidize those who cannot pay the full fee for its services. The Center is enormously grateful for their vital contribution, which ensures that its important work will continue.

The Oktoberfest annual appeal was The Counseling Center’s only fund-raiser for 2021. On May 6^th, 2022, the Center will celebrate its long-delayed 50^th Anniversary Gala, during which it will honor Doug Cruikshank and Si and Vicki Ford, whose significant contributions to our community have made it a more beautiful, healthful, and fulfilling place to live.

If you missed the October 3^rd event and wish to make a donation, you may do so at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or through the donate button on The Counseling Center’s website: counselingcenter.org/.  And if at any time you feel in need of the comfort and support offered by The Counseling Center, we encourage you to reach out to us at 914-793-3388.