Michelle – Registered Dental Hygienist
mnaughton@cooneyorthodontics.com
I started working in orthodontics after graduating from Hudson Valley Dental Hygiene Program in 1981. Joining the office of Dr. Michael Fleming in 1981 turned into a wonderful career in orthodontics that continues with Dr. Cooney today. I joined Dr. Cooney in 2001 after raising two children and pursuing other career interests. In our office, you will find me meeting with the new patients, changing the fun contests and working with you once your treatment has started. I love keeping up on local school football and basketball teams. Of course, college and the pros catch my interest also. I enjoy hearing about the patients' vacation stories about the Adirondacks, especially Fort Ticonderoga, where I grew up.

Donna – Lab Technician, Inventory Coordinator
desposito@cooneyorthodontics.com
I joined Dr. Cooney’s orthodontic practice in 2003 as the Lab Assistant. I have two adult children who had their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Cooney and it was a very natural progression to join the team. I started in the medical field at Albany Medical Center as a Medical Transcriptionist, and still continue 20 years later. Working in the lab is like art. Creating the study models and retainers for patients is rewarding, especially seeing the “before and after” results. You can find me in all areas of the office, just peek through the window when you get an impression and you’ll see my smile. Cooking for my family is a passion that I enjoy and share.

Kathi – Dental Assistant
kbertone@cooneyorthodontics.com
My experience in dentistry began with Dr. Cooney in 2003. I completed the Hudson Valley Dental Assisting program in May 2007. What can I say? I love orthodontics! The patients are a joy and the results achieved are amazing. I am a dental assistant working closely with Dr. Cooney and our team throughout your orthodontic treatment. Impressions, x-rays and keeping parents up-to-date are just a few of the things keeping me busy every day. I enjoy gardening and love to cook. I’m also a big Yankees fan and enjoy sharing baseball stories with our patients. With the world wide web, I have fun exchanging emails with my grandchildren in Michigan.

Erin – Registered Dental Hygienist/Business Manager
efarron@cooneyorthodontics.com
I graduated from Russell Sage College in 1984 with a BS in Economics and Management and the HVCC Dental Hygiene program in 1987. I began my career in orthodontics at this practice in 1987 with occasional employment in general dentistry. As part of our team, I have had the opportunity to perform in a variety of roles: clinical dental hygienist, lab technician, receptionist, inventory specialist and Business Manager. Our patients and parents are what I enjoy most about orthodontics. Knowing that their lives are positively impacted with orthodontic treatment through improved function and dental health has made it a fun and rewarding career for me. I enjoy the diversity of clinical duties as well as the business aspect of orthodontics. The staff in our office is a pleasure to work with. As the mother of Michael, Catherine and stepdaughter Erica, I enjoy raising my family with my husband, Ed.

Jennifer – Appointment Coordinator
jmainello@cooneyorthodontics.com
My formal education is from Hudson Valley Community College, trained as a Medical Office Assistant. After having braces with Dr. Cooney and Dr. Fleming, I started working as the receptionist in 1998. Being a patient gave me good insight and understanding of orthodontics and our practice. The first person you meet when entering our office should make an impression. I greet every patient, parent and family member with a smile and cheerful manner! My two little guys and husband keep a smile on my face when I’m not in the office. Since my family has grown, scrapbooking has become my favorite pastime, creating memories of my children.

Lori – Dental Assistant
ldowling@cooneyorthodontics.com
In 2003, I started in the dental profession as an assistant in a general dental office. In January of 2008, I joined the office of Dr. Cooney as a dental assistant. Orthodontics is an exciting specialty. I enjoy the fast pace and every day brings new learning opportunities for me. Currently I’m enrolled at HVCC in the Certified Dental Assisting Program. Gaining knowledge in a new field of dentistry is wonderful and rewarding. I look forward to becoming certified and to excelling in my skills to help Dr. Cooney with making your smiles bright! At the end of the day I enjoy going home to walk my dog, Travis, and making time for friends and family on weekends.

Sue – Dental Hygienist
slarose@cooneyorthodontics.com
I was a member of the very first graduating class in Dental Hygiene from Hudson Valley Community College in May of 1960. After a short career in general dentistry, I was fortunate enough to be an at-home mom raising my three daughters. Upon returning to the workforce in 1991, I worked in both general dentistry and orthodontics for many years. I have enjoyed working with Dr. Cooney for the past 17 years. Presently, I am semi-retired and working two days per week. In addition to being involved in the patient’s treatment and care, I am responsible for the office inventory and equipment. I have found orthodontics to be a very rewarding experience. Working two days a week affords me the pleasure of spending more time with my three daughters and seven grandchildren. They are the joy of my life. I enjoy reading, gardening and going to Curves for Women.

Diane – Financial and Appointment Coordinator
dbentley@cooneyorthodontics.com
I attended Hudson Valley Community College and completed the Executive Secretarial Science program. I worked in the administrative field until taking several years off to be home with my children. I joined Dr. Cooney’s team in 2005 as a clinical assistant, and currently I’m the Financial Coordinator. Understanding that orthodontics is a commitment, there is nothing better than seeing Mom and Dad’s reaction to that first bracket-free smile. Keeping me busy outside the office are my five wonderful children. There is always some kind of thing to do: dance class, sporting events, and – my favorite – go-kart racing always have my husband and I on the go!