Meet The Team

Yaakov Barr is a fully qualified and accredited psychotherapist holding a Masters degree (MSc) in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) from the University of London and a Post Graduate diploma (PG Dip) in Counselling. His background is in person-centred therapy. He trained in the NHS seeing patients at the Luton Community Health Trust, as well as for the voluntary sector. In 2010, he was awarded the Barnet Community Volunteer Award. His is also a former; member of the All-Parliamentary Group on Cannabis and Children and a reviewer for the highly acclaimed BABCP international journal. He is accredited with the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) and the Association of Rational Behaviour Therapists (AREBT). All therapy work is supervised in accordance with the BABCP Code of Conduct.

In 2017 Yaakov also became a clinical supervisor for the BABCP and he currently supervises and lectures in CBT. He is also a consultant for a number of schools and colleges in North London. Yaakov treats both adults and adolescents, whether self-referred or referred from Psychiatrists or Doctors. Confidentiality and trust are his highest priorities, and he takes pride in maintaining only the highest of standards.

Riki has been involved with JTeen since the beginning. She is a Trustee of the charity, as well as a manager, involved in the text and phone line services, and outreach programs.

She has a background in the charity sector, working in governance, fundraising, and management roles.

Michal is based in London with her family. Alongside working in the events industry, she has become an integral part of the JTeen family. Michal is very passionate about mental health and has been with JTeen since its inception in 2020. She trained with JTeen and has completed further counselling courses. Michal currently supervises for JTeen and is one of the safeguarding leaders. She is also our Volunteer Liaison and is available to all volunteers to track their progress within JTeen.

Ari Leaman brings 22 years of invaluable experience in managing crisis with young people as the Chief Executive and Designated Safeguarding Lead at The Boys Clubhouse. Ari has been with JTeen since its inception and plays a pivotal role in our team as our Designated Safeguarding Lead at JTeen, ensuring a secure environment for all.