ABOUT US
OUR MISSION:
to promote the health and well-being of the local population by providing accessible, high-quality, non surgical options for adults of all ages.
We are committed to providing you with services that will have you not just looking and feeling your best, but have you living your best life. Our mission is to provide each of our community members with the tools they need to reach their personal goals. We are confident that we will not just meet your needs, but we will exceed your expectations.
explore OUR SERVICES
MEET THE SKILLED AND CARING TEAM AT
refined medical ny
Chris KOCH
Physician Assistant,
CEO and Owner of Refined Medical Management LLC
“You can have results or excuses. Not both." - Arnold Schwarzenegger
Chris is a registered Physician Assistant with more than 15 years' experience in the field of medicine. He has worked for some of the most recognized medical centers in the state including Montefiore Medical Center and Stony Brook University Medical Center. Chris has spent most of his career in the field of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery where he utilized and refined his skills to create training programs for procedures and protocols for some of the most advanced procedures and techniques for endovascular vessel harvesting. Chris was given the title of lead clinical instructor in 2018.
Recently, Chris has ventured into outpatient practices where he performs alternative methods to pain management including trigger point therapy which has gained a tremendous amount of traction over the past decade. Using the most advanced and state of the art ultrasound guided technique, Chris has developed a large patient following with an outstanding retention rate. He was named the Director of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Program in which he cared for nearly 100 patients per week.
Chris had also taken on the role of scouting new facilities and setting up new entities for pain management satellite locations providing more accessible care to patients. From inception of idea to ribbon cutting, Chris was actively involved in providing the tools needed for success including marketing, inventory, patient acquisition and follow up.
Chris is now the proud co-owner of Refined Medical Management, LLC a management service organization, which is a health care specific administrative and management engine that provides a host of administrative and management functions necessary to be successful in the ever-changing healthcare environment. Chris specializes in developing clinical guidelines and standards of care, providing care coordination services and recruiting new staff and integrating staff clinically to provide best possible outcomes for patients.
TARA KOCH
Physician Associate,
CEO and Owner of Refined Medical Management LLC,
Lead Injector for
Refined Beauty
“Be humble. Be hungry. And always be the hardest worker in the room."
-Dwayne Johnson
Tara has been a practicing Physician Associate for 15 years. Tara graduated at the top of her class at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and was awarded summa cum laude. She spent over a decade in the field of Cardiothoracic Surgery before pursuing her true passion in Dermatology. It was back in her surgical days that she met Chris who worked on the same team as her. At that time the two were leading extremely different lives but have been inseparable since.
Tara began her dermatology career in 2015 where she was trained in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology. She currently works for the largest regional dermatology group Schweiger Dermatology and has been recognized for her outstanding performance with a consistent net promoter score greater than 90%. For the second consecutive year she been a part of the top 1% at Schweiger Dermatology awarded and added to the “Presidents Club” which is based on annual revenue and patient satisfaction scores.
Tara soon gained traction in cosmetic dermatology where she was able to create an astonishing client base. Tara offers a full array of services including injectables, lasers, scar revisions, micro needling, hair loss rejuvenation, skin care, and more. Tara has set the framework for new providers and has been invited to train new providers for Schweiger Dermatology's Advanced Practitioner Program. Tara has also been recognized by some of the biggest names in the cosmetic industry and was selected to be on the advisory board for Endo Pharmaceuticals.
Aside for her 2 daughters, Aria and Avery, Tara’s greatest accomplishment is being the co-owner of Refined Medical Management with her husband, Chris. Tara’s main focus at Refined will be marketing and development as well as leading the aesthetic program. She will further assist in developing protocols for quality and outcomes, track performance and ensure compliance meets clinical measures and metrics.
Nycholle Gavilanes, MD
Medical Director
“You must find the place inside yourself where nothing is impossible."
-Deepak Chopra
Dr. Nycholle Gavilanes is a highly esteemed, board-certified internal medicine physician based in Long Island, New York. As the Medical Director at Refined Medical, Dr. Gavilanes oversees a dedicated team that is passionate about advancing health and well-being through innovative, high-quality nonsurgical solutions. Her approach seamlessly integrates conventional medicine with holistic practices to deliver exceptional, patient-centered care.
Dr. Gavilanes has an extensive academic background which includes degrees in Kinesiology and Nutrition, reflecting her deep commitment to a comprehensive understanding of health and wellness. Her experience as a university-level soccer player and her attainment of a black belt in taekwondo further exemplify her dedication to physical fitness and its vital role in achieving longevity and overall vitality.
Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Gavilanes excels as a Health and Success coach, where she employs a diverse array of holistic modalities including qigong, pranic healing, hypnotherapy, and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to uncover and address the root causes of health issues. Her unique integrative approach blends the best of Western medicine with Eastern philosophies, empowering her patients with a wealth of tools and knowledge for achieving optimal health. Dr. Gavilanes’ multifaceted expertise and compassionate guidance help her patients navigate their journey to a more balanced, vibrant life.
Madison May
Chief Operating Officer,
General Manager – East Setauket
“Opportunities don't happen, you create them.”
Maddie graduated from Kings College with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship. Alongside Chris & Tara, she is one of the founding members and has been a part of Refined Medical team since its inception. She wears multiple hats for Refined Medical from running the day-to-day functions as General Manager of our East Setauket location to overseeing all operations as Chief Operating Officer. Maddie will always ensure that everyone from new clients to veteran staff has the “Refined" experience. She has a true love for her job and everyone that walks in the door. In her spare time, you will find Maddie perusing one of her passions, which is giving swimming lessons. She has been teaching for 10 years all ages and levels. Once it gets warm you can catch her over at Davis Park at the beach. She loves to travel and is always willing to go to tropical islands. Upon your arrival at Refined, Maddie will likely be one of the first friendly faces to greet you with a smile and is here to help with anything you need.
Judy Berg
General Manager – Commack
"The greatest wealth is health"
Judy has over 40 years experience in the healthcare field. For several years she has served on the administration board at “A Better Living Environment” which is an in-servicing agency for Health Care Facilities.
Utilizing her knowledge of best practices and standards of care, she helped set quality measures and standards of care to use across facilities. She further takes pride in her acquired tenure as a Senior Recreational Therapist at Pilgrim Psychiatric Center. For her last five years at Pilgrim she had taken on a more administrative role.
Judy is happy to be a part of the Refined Medical Team. Judy is the General Manager of our new location based in Commack and is excited to serve a community that is both familiar to her and dear to her heart. You can always find her with her phone in her hand managing the day to day in Commack making sure that all clients received the “Refined” experience.
Steve Berg
General Manager - Commack,
Lead Nutritional Coach – Commack
"A Healthy outside starts from the Inside."
Stephen has over 40 years' experience in multiple aspects of the health and education fields. In addition to being an adjunct professor of Psychology, some of his executive administrative roles include Director of Operations at Pilgrim Psychiatric Center and Chief Operating Officer for “A Better Living Environment”.
Steve also has extensive clinical experience as a behavioral counselor providing services for AHRC and SCO Family of Services. Most recently, he has become certified in nutritional coaching which enables him to tie all of his experience together. Steve will be our lead Nutritional Coach for the Refined Body Program. Combining his knowledge and experience with behaviors and nutrition, he will help weight loss clients develop healthy relationships with food through educating them on how to make and maintain better food choices.
PAUL Parkas
Marketing & Development - COMMACK
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing” -Walt Disney
Paul completed his Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration at SUNY Old Westbury.
He is a young entrepreneur with a variety of projects he is in the process of developing. Collaborating with Refined Medical is his most recent and exciting venture. With a passion for health and wellness, Paul is proud to introduce the Refined brand to the Commack community.
Peter Sicardi, PA
Physician Assistant
“Get busy living or get busy dying”
Peter Sicardi is a board-certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Touro University in 2020 with a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies. Peter had an instant love for orthopedics and began his career in a subspecialty of orthopedic spine surgery in Manhattan, NY. Peter then took his experience out to Patchogue, Long Island where he is currently full time in orthopedic surgery, seeing patients in an office, inpatient/emergency department and operating room setting.
Peter has vast knowledge and experience in multiple orthopedic subspecialties including orthopedic trauma, hand/upper extremity, total joint replacement and sports medicine. Peter joined Refined Medical in 2023 and works Monday evenings and Saturdays. He has experience with holistic approaches to pain management/trigger point therapy since he graduated in 2020. Aside from having a passion for overall patient care and orthopedics, Peter is a huge New York Rangers fan and enjoys playing and watching soccer (mostly the English Premier League and the Italian Serie A). He enjoys exercising, playing guitar and snowboarding.
Katrisha Lazarre-Lilavois, PA
Physician Assistant
“When life gives you lemons, go on vacation.”
Katrisha Lazarre-Lilavois is a Physician Assistant specializing in Orthopedics at NYU Langone Hospital Long Island. Prior to her current position, she worked in Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine. She is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and New York State Society of Physician Assistants.
Mrs. Lazarre-Lilavois is certified by the National Commission for Certification of Physician Assistants and completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Physician Assistant studies from SUNY Downstate Medical Center.
Karyn Pagano, PA
Physician Assistant,
Aesthetic Injector
"If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life" - Marc Anthony
Karyn has been a certified Physician Assistant for the past 17 years. She is board certified and trained in Medical and Surgical Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine. With 10+ years injecting experience she brings exceptional care and passion for medical aesthetics.
She specializes in natural results with close attention to detail. She will customize each treatment and ensure that everyone leaves their treatment feeling confident and beautiful.
Katie Stager, PA
PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT
“Security is mostly a superstition…..Life is either a daring adventure , or nothing.”
-Helen Keller
Katie has been a Physician Assistant for 15 years and has worked in cardiothoracic surgery and critical care for all of those years.
She is also a Registered Dietetic Nutritionist. Prior to becoming a physician assistant she worked in pediatric and adult clinical nutrition specializing in prescription diets for a number of medical issues in the adult and pediatric population.
She is excited to be joining the Refined Medical team. When she is not caring for patients she is with her family or on the farm with her horse.
Dominique Pocchia, rn
Registered Nurse
“Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.” -Mother Theresa
Dominique is our RN on Mondays. When she is not at Refined, she works in an outpatient opioid treatment center and is a new yoga instructor!
Her short-term goals are to become a Pilates instructor and get a Masters in Holistic Nursing to combine health, wellness and science in hopes to broaden horizons for people on whatever journey they are on.
Some of her favorite things on earth are her dog Pingoli, flower claw clips, national parks and going to sporting events. Dominique is sure to bring a smile to your face and looks forward to seeing you all soon!
Jennifer Florio-Bruno, RN
Registered Nurse
“The best way to predict your future is to create it”
Jennifer is a registered nurse with over 20 years experience in a variety of disciplines, including orthopedic, bariatric, and neurosurgical ICU. When she's not working, you can find her spending quality time with her family and three children.
Jennifer has proudly been a part of the team here at Refined Medical for 1 year! She loves that she can delve deeper into her passion of holistic medicine. With her diverse experience in conventional medicine and love for alternative forms of patient care, she is a critical asset to our team.
You can find Jennifer's smiling face at Refined on Wednesdays & Thursdays.
Danielle Ward, rn
Registered Nurse
"It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed"
Danielle began her nursing career at Stony Brook University where she worked in a variety of specialties including Orthopedics, Emergency Medicine and the Operating room. In 2019 when she attained her master's degree in nursing education, she began working as a nurse educator for Long Island Jewish Medical Center until 2021.
Danielle currently works as the Nursing Professional Development Specialist for perioperative services and interventional radiology at NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital. She has recently just completed her Doctorate Degree in Nursing Leadership and Administration at Quinnipiac University. In her free time, you will find Danielle doing things that she loves...Orange Theory and working with the patients at Refined Medical (It's her fun Job!). Danielle is an integral part of our Saturday team.
Nicole Esposito, RN
Registered Nurse
“Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations” - unknown
Nicole received a Bachelor's Science in Nursing from Capella University and has been in the healthcare field for 12 years. She is extremely diversified, having worked in many different specialties including urgent care, long term care, and acute care. She loves having the ability to make a difference in people's lives when they need it most.
Currently she is the lead nurse of one of the largest school districts on Long Island. This is where she found her true passion. She loves meeting and working with students of all ages and being able to be a strong advocate for children’s health and safety. Being a mother of 2, has really driven her to the career path she has taken. Her hobbies include being at the beach, snowboarding and most of all, spending time with her husband and 2 young children.
Amy Trupiano, RN
Registered Nurse
“Lead with kindness, Live with Gratitude”
Amy is originally from Kansas City, MO. She graduated with her BSN in 1995 and worked at Children's Mercy hospital for over 20 years.
Amy started her career there working in the Burn unit and clinics. She then moved over to the operating room where she spent the next 12 years. In 2016 she relocated to Long Island where she again worked in the operating room at Mather Hospital.
In Amy's personal life you will find she is happily married with three wonderful children. During her time off, you can find her enjoying all outdoor sports and activities.
Alexandria Valentino, LMT
Lead Massage Therapist,
Aesthetician
“Confidence— It's the food of the wise man, but the liquor of the fool” -Vikram (The Office)
Alexandria Valentino is a bubbly dual Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) & Esthetician (LE). Known for her vibrant personality and infectious laughter, Alexandria’s warm and welcoming approach ensures an uplifting environment for those around her.
Since 2013 her massage practice has taken her from the Hamptons to NYC. Committed to curating the optimal treatment for each client, Alexandria combines her training in skincare and Hydrafacial, with her training in various massage techniques such as Medical, Swedish, Sports, Deep Tissue, Acupressure, and Reiki.
Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, stress, rejuvenation, or a radiant glow, Alexandria is here to guide you towards a balanced and revitalized you.
Tara Lawless, LMT
Licensed Massage Therapist
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel’ -Maya Angelou
Tara is one of the licensed massage therapists at Refined Medical. She has been a massage therapist for 19 years now but does wear a few other hats.
She is also a Reiki Master, a Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, the Co-Founder and Secretary of a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation, and last but not least, a busy mom of two kids and a variety of animals.
In her free time, she can usually be found enjoying time with her kids, at the archery range or reading. She is passionate about helping people be able to enjoy life by achieving their highest level of health and well-being. Tara is a true asset to our team, and she looks forward to working with all of you!
Danielle Hagen, LMT
Licensed Massage Therapist
“Don’t find fault, find a remedy”
Danielle Hagen is a spirited licensed massage therapist trained in multiple modalities including medical massage, acupressure, Thai massage, stretching, and Reiki.
Her passion for energy work and nutrition enhances her holistic approach to healing. She delivers comprehensive treatments that promote physical and energetic well-being across Long Island, upstate New York, and New York City.
Amanda Catterson, LMT
Licensed Massage Therapist
“It's amazing the difference a bit of sky can make” -Shel Silverstein
Amanda Catterson is a driven massage therapist with an arts background that she can seamlessly blend into each massage treatment. A massage therapist Since 2007, studying in New York, Connecticut and Thailand she has worked from the Hamptons to New York City. Amanda is well versed in a variety of disciplines with a focus on medical massage, deep tissue, energy work and barefoot massage. A science geek to the core, Amanda utilizes her knowledge of the human body to target pain and inflammation to help aid the patient in healing and relaxation.
When Amanda isn’t working you can find her traveling, hiking and spending time with family.
Sarina Dorsinvil, LMT
Licensed Massage Therapist
"Life is not about how you survive the storm, but how you dance in the rain." —Eartha Kitt
Sarina is a licensed massage therapist dedicated to helping you feel your absolute best. With years of training and experience, she specializes in a variety of techniques, including Deep Tissue Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Prenatal Massage, Swedish Massage, and Hot Stone Therapy. She strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment where you can truly relax and unwind.
Sarina believes in the power of touch to promote healing and wellness, and her goal is to ensure you leave each session feeling rejuvenated and revitalized. Let Sarina assist you on your wellness journey helping you achieve your health goals!
Harry Placide, LMT
Licensed Massage Therapist
"A dream is just a dream, if you fail to manifest it."
Harry Placide is a Licensed Massage Therapist specializing in both medical and spa treatments. He has worked at some of Long Islands most luxurious spas like Gurney’s Sea Water Spa, and La Vida.
In most recent years, he has been focusing solely on medical massage. He is certified in modalities such as: migraine/headache relief, deep tissue massage, cupping therapy, myofascial release. Aside from being a massage therapist Harry is also an experienced martial artist. He taught self-defense, Kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiujitsu for 8 years and has a wealth of knowledge pertaining to fitness and recovery.
Carolelynn Marino, MA
Medical Assistant – East Setauket
Administrative Assistant – East Setauket
“Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful” -Joshua J. Marine
Carolelynn Marino is our medical assistant here at Refined Medical. Carolelynn aids Tara in cosmetic as well as dermatological procedures. Watching patients' excitement when they look into the mirror after a procedure is her favorite part of the job. When she is not assisting, you will also find her at the front desk with Maddie. Carolelynn has a warm disposition and vibrant personality. She loves being able to interact with clients as they walk into the office.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her horse, Fiona. She is a four-year-old Thoroughbred and used to race at Belmont Park.
Dianna Marinos
Administrative Assistant – East Setauket
“Every day is a new opportunity. You can build on yesterday's success or put its failures behind and start over again” -Bullet Bob Feller
Dianna joined the Refined Medical team in July of 2023 as part of the front desk. She enjoys greeting patients and making them feel at home from the moment they walk in the door.
Dianna is passionate about sports and is currently working towards a career in the sports industry. In her free time, you can catch Dianna traveling the world or watching the Yankees. She also enjoys skiing, hiking, and baking. Dianna is there to greet you with a smile on Saturdays and Monday evenings.
Georgina Arianas
Administrative Assistant - COMMACK
“In the middle of every difficulty lies great opportunity."
Georgina is one of the friendly faces that will greet you when you visit our Commack location.
With a long history of healthcare administration, reception, and medical billing, Georgina is excited to service the Commack community.
In addition, Georgina is studying Nursing at Farmingdale State College and looks forward to receiving her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing next year.
Phil Berg
Administrative Assistant - COMMACK
"Winners never quit and quitters never win."
Phil has consistently pursued his passion for athletics and wellness. He is a Certified Personal Trainer and has an extensive background in mixed martial arts.
Most recently he has been working in healthcare administration and is happy to bring all of this experience to the Refined Medical team at our Commack location. Phil is an avid sports fan and in his time off you can find him watching sports and MMA.
Alex Parkas
Administrative Assistant - Commack
“If you can’t do anything about it, then let it go. Don’t be a prisoner to things you cannot change”
Alex graduated from Hofstra University with a Bachelor's degree in Community Health and minor in Psychology. Soon after, she decided to pursue her true passion for beauty and aesthetics.
She completed her training and is certified though the Long Island Nail, Skin & Hair Institute with specialty focus in facial aesthetics. From a simple facial for sensitive skin, to a more complex facial for problematic skin, Alex will work one on one with her clients to develop a customized facial plan and skin care regimen tailored to fit their specific needs.
Arlene Koch
human resources
“Make every day count. Live, love & laugh a lot!”
Arlene's early career started as an entry level bank teller where her administrative capabilities allowed her to be promoted quickly to Head Teller. Within this position she began servicing customers' accounts which rolled into more behind the scenes in accounting. After multiple bank acquisitions an opportunity to further advance had presented itself and she was acquired by a graphic design firm, Curran & Connors, producing annual reports and creating a variety of corporate documents and Web design.
Her continued success led her up the corporate ladder on the business side to Human Resource and Office Manager. Her career of 23 years ended due to COVID but this opened her up to a new exciting opportunity for her. She is now thrilled and proud to be a part of her son and daughter-in-law’s business, Refined Medical, aiding with the Human Resource aspects of the business. On a personal level, she enjoys a semi-retired life with her husband as well as enjoying her 4 beautiful and precious granddaughters!
Janine DeNicola
Satellite Manager,
Billing Specialist
“When life knocks you down, try to land on your back. Because if you look up you can get up.” -Les Brown
Janine has an extensive background in medical billing, marketing, planning and accounting. She graduated from the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising in NYC with a Bachelor's Degree in Business with a major in Marketing.
She initially became part of the Refined Medical team early on for her experience and expertise as a billing specialist. In a short time, she has grown to play an integral role in the growth and expansion of Refined Medial. In addition to billing,
Janine manages and oversees our various satellite locations to ensure that the quality and consistency of the Refined brand carries over.
Mary Moccia
Billing Specialist
"Life is short. Buy the pony."
Mary is thrilled to have joined the Refined family, bringing 25+ years of billing experience. Mary's ability has helped us navigate through the challenging and ever-changing world of insurance billing.
Her time out of the office is busier than her time in the office as she entertains an incredibly fun but busy personal life. Mary is the proud parent of four awesome children, three dogs, two lizards and one horse. She attributes her personal and professional success to tag teaming life with her BFF aka, her husband who is her biggest supporter.
