Leadership

Esther Kenigsberg

SPARKS was founded in 2007 by Esther Kenigsberg who came from the world of business and counselling. Esther studied Psychology with a focus on self-awareness and parenting.  Over the years she saw firsthand the devastating effects that can be left on a child whose mother is not mentally present. In fact she found that most of these children’s situations could mirror the effects of an orphaned child. Seeing this big need in society she put together a plan of action and SPARKS was born.

Founder, President 

Rabbi Dr. Abraham J. Twerski MD ZT”L

Rabbi Dr. Twerski, ZT”L (may he rest in peace) was involved in SPARKS from the beginning.  His expertise and knowledge has helped us tremendously through the years.  He has been inspiring people for decades as one of this generation’s most eminent psychiatrists, focusing on the area of self-improvement. A Rabbi and frequent lecturer on a broad range of topics including spirituality and self-esteem, he is the author of many books. He is the founder of Gateway Rehabilitation Center. May he forever rest in peace.

Brand Ambassador 

Dr. Shoshana Bennet Ph.D.

Dr. Shoshana Bennett is an internationally recognized clinical psychologist and one of the leading voices in maternal mental health. With decades of experience supporting women through pregnancy and postpartum challenges, she has helped shape public understanding and clinical care for postpartum depression and anxiety worldwide. Dr. Bennett is the author of multiple landmark books on perinatal mood disorders and has been featured across major media platforms as a trusted expert in the field. Her work continues to empower families with compassionate, evidence-based guidance and hope.

Clinical Advisory Board 

Rabbi Dr. Elie Abadie MD

Rabbi Dr. Elie Abadie is a distinguished leader, physician, and global advocate for Jewish and humanitarian causes. Trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology, he has also served in prominent rabbinic and educational leadership roles, including founding major Sephardic institutions and contributing to international Jewish thought and community development. Rabbi Dr. Abadie is widely respected for bridging medical expertise, spiritual leadership, and public service, bringing a rare multidisciplinary perspective to Sparks Center’s mission of supporting women and families.

Board Member 

Dr. James Foster

Dr. James Forster is a physician and clinical leader in integrative and functional medicine, dedicated to helping patients achieve long-term wellness through root-cause care. Building on a deep family legacy in holistic health, Dr. Forster has spent years working closely with patients to address complex medical challenges with a personalized and compassionate approach. As a member of Sparks Center’s Clinical Advisory Board, he brings valuable expertise in whole-person care and preventive health to support women and families through every stage of healing.

Clinical Advisory Board 

Devorah Kaslik, LMSW

Devora Kozlik is an LMSW and an author who has 20 years of clinical experience. Devora’s work experience is what makes her a dynamic part of our team. She has worked as a clinical social worker, counseling women, teens, couples and children on the topics of ODD, ADD-ADHD, PPD and Phobias.  Devora has been with SPARKS for over 4 years working with women and families suffering from the effects of PPD, depression, emotional and physical abuse, psychosis and anxiety.

Lead Therapist 

Board of Directors.

• Esther Kenigsberg, President • Rabbi Elie Abadie, MD • Miriam Amsel, LCSW • Rebbetzin Rivka Eichenstein • Surei Frenkel • Chesky Fuchs • Naftali Horowitz • Motty Kenigsberg • Henna White • Oranit Zuckerman

Clinical Advisory Board.

• Dr. Jamie Forster • Rus Devora Wallen, LCSW ACSW
• Miriam Yerushalmi, MS • Shoshana Bennet PHD