Our Team
The People Behind the Mission
We are an enthusiastic team of experienced clinicians and community leaders who share the common goal of supporting the mental health and well-being of Ridgefield's youth and families. We strive to make a difference in the community we proudly serve. Whether you need guidance, healing, or simply someone to listen, we're here to support you — because everyone deserves the chance to grow and thrive.
Doug Barile, LMFT
Executive Director and Senior Therapist
Doug joined RYFS in 2008 upon completion of his training as a marriage and family therapist. His diverse life experiences include serving as a Navy pilot, leading the change management practice for a global consulting firm, suffering a divorce, remarrying and raising three now-adult children. He resides in Ridgefield and has enjoyed many years serving on Town committees, leading a Scout troop and coaching youth sports. He currently leads the agency's Parent Circle programs and serves on both our Judicial Review Board and Community Coalition Against Substance Abuse (RCCASA).
Nathan Carpenter, LMFT
Clinical Director and Senior Therapist
Licensed since 2007, Nathan provides therapeutic services to individuals, couples and families and, as Clinical Director, supervises our clinical staff. As a past Clinical Director of two additional Youth & Family Service agencies in Connecticut, Nathan serves clients while also often working in partnership with school systems, local clergy and the police department. Nathan and his family relocated to Ridgefield, CT in mid-2020 and are enjoying all that Ridgefield has to offer.
Monica Jeffers, MA, LMFTA
Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate with a background in human services and family dynamics. She earned her degrees from the University of Connecticut and Fairfield University, and she has worked with children and families in both educational and clinical settings. As a mother of four and someone who's been married for over 20 years, she brings personal insight and empathy to the work she does with individuals, couples, and families. She strives to create a safe, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, feel heard, and make meaningful changes in their relationships and lives.
Wynne Dieffenbach
Marriage & Family Therapist
Wynne is a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with clients of all ages with a particular focus on teens and families. She creates a safe, nonjudgemental space and uses a collaborative, developmentally informed approach to support each client's growth. Her goal is to help people make sense of their experiences, strengthen their relationships, and move forward with greater confidence.
Steph Pagano
Treasurer
Steph has been supporting the agency for more than 15 years. Lucky to be living in Ridgefield for over 23 years, Steph is married and has two adult daughters. Before working with RYFS, she had the honor of working at ROAR Animal Shelter for 14 years.
Our Advisory Board
The Board meets quarterly to provide ongoing guidance and support on how we can increase our community impact while ensuring the ongoing operational and financial sustainability of the agency. In this capacity Board members:
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provide input on the evolving and unmet mental health needs of Ridgefield’s youth and families
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foster ongoing connections with key community partners
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serve as a sounding board for new plans and programs
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ensure clinical excellence and financial integrity
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support fundraising efforts to achieve financial sustainability, and
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ensure leadership continuity.