Our Board of Directors

The Rev. John Kamas, Chair

Rev. John Kamas, pastor of St. Jean Baptiste Church and dedicated chaplain at Sacred Heart all-girls school, has been an integral part of PSI for many years. His passion for the organization’s mission and unwavering support have left a profound impact on its growth and development.

Rev. Kamas joined the Board of PSI in 1992 and served as Chair for many years. He has always been a source of encouragement and support to the executive leadership of PSI, always seeking to expand its mission and potential.

A native New Yorker and a trained pastoral counselor himself, he understands the depth and complexity of PSI’s work addressing the intersection of psychotherapy and spirituality. His insights and expertise have contributed significantly to the development of successful programs and initiatives.

Rev. Kamas extends his commitment to PSI beyond official roles. He actively fosters a sense of community among PSI staff, hosting annual gatherings at his residence. These events provide not only a space for food and fellowship, but also strengthen relationships within the PSI family.

Joseph P Merlino, MD, MPA

Dr. Joseph P. Merlino, MD, MPA, has been an important leader in the field of innovative, ethical, community Behavioral Healthcare for the past several decades. When introduced to PSI, he quickly recognized the unique perspective PSI practitioners were bringing to the field in New York City. 

Embracing a strong religious foundation himself, Dr. Merlino has always understood there is more to psychotherapy than theory and dogma. He was drawn to PSI members’ openness to discussing matters of spirituality beyond “scientific method” and has admired their ongoing dedication to learning from, and helping, one another. 

Dr. Merlino feels that current scientific discoveries are making the hard lines between science and spirituality very porous. As the need for mental health services has never been greater in the U.S., Dr. Merlino feels these new findings will translate into the public seeking more spiritually informed psychotherapy treatment.

Dr. Merlino is a distinguished fellow of numerous esteemed psychiatric and psychoanalysis associations, including the American Academy of Dynamic Psychiatry and Psychoanalysis, of which he is a life fellow and former president. He is currently in private practice in Rhinebeck, NY, and serves on the Vestry of The Episcopal Church of the Messiah.

David Sorblum, CPA

In 1999, David Sorblum left his position as CFO of a high pressure company, whose ethics were not in line with his own. He recalls the time:

“I needed to find more meaning in my life and give something back to society. I was introduced to the PSI board and various therapists, and was immediately impressed by their selflessness, integrity, and great knowledge.”

That year Sorblum joined PSI’s board of Directors as Treasurer. He also started his own business consulting firm, DHS & Company Inc. where, as President, he brings his values to bear for the companies his strategies benefit.

David Sorblum has been with PSI through both joyful and tragic events, specifically remembering the organization’s commitment to New Yorkers after 9/11.  He sees a bright future for PSI, and believes the organization will expand, serving even more New Yorkers and people beyond.