Meet the Team at Leaf Dental

Dr. Eugene Goldman, DDS

Dentist

I'm Dr. Goldman, and I've been immersed in the world of dentistry since 2006. In January 2014, I founded this practice and have since been dedicated to providing exemplary dental care to my patients. I graduated from SUNY Buffalo, and interestingly, I was unsure about my career path during my college days. It was only after assisting my brother, who's a dentist, and witnessing the impact we could make on patients' lives that I felt a strong pull towards this field.

For me, working with patients is incredibly rewarding. I believe that variety is the spice of life. Every patient brings their own story, and it's always exciting to meet new individuals. Finding the unique approach each one needs is both challenging and fulfilling. It's an incredible feeling to connect with people and play a part in enhancing their oral health. Additionally, working alongside my diverse team, with members from all over the world, brings fresh perspectives and insights every day. Their expertise and collaboration make every day at the practice enriching.

When I'm not at the dental office, I'm an avid cook. I have a penchant for experimenting with different dishes, whether it's the rich flavors of chicken tikka masala or the delicate balance of crafting the perfect tiramisu.

On a more personal note, my musical journey started in junior high when I took up the upright bass. Many found it amusing that the instrument towered over me!

Dr. Reesha Rafiq, DDS

Dentist

I'm Dr. Reesha Rafiq, and I love dentistry because it's a perfect combination of science, art and patient care; it's an exciting career that allows me to use my hands to improve peoples' health and happiness. Pursuing my lifelong passion for pearly whites, I graduated from NYU's College of Dentistry and completed my general practice residency at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn. I'm a social butterfly, and I love meeting new people and getting to know my patients on a personal level. I have been working in dentistry for nearly a decade, and I joined the Leaf Dental team in 2021. 

I love that I'm able to take care of patients' oral health needs, whether it's to relieve someone's pain or put a smile on their face. It's my passion to help guide patients so they can improve their quality of life and lead a healthy lifestyle. Seeing a patient feel more confident and empowered is incredibly rewarding.

After a long day, I like to unwind by watching TV or stay active by taking long walks in the city, speed-walking, and doing Pilates and Yoga.  

Dr. Natalie Hirayama, DMD

Dentist

Hello there! My name is Dr. Natalie Hirayama, and I'm originally from Vancouver, B.C. Although I love Canada's bustling west coast, I made the move across the continent to a city I've always dreamed of living. Before I moved here, I graduated with my Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the University of British Columbia. Soon after, I completed my residency at the Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx and joined the Leaf Dental team. 

Whether I'm hiking along the west coast or running trails in the east, I adore being outdoors, especially anywhere near the water. 

Dr. Shady Samuel , DDS

Pediatric Dentist

I’m Dr. Shady Samuel, and I'm a pediatric dentist in Brooklyn who has been caring for children's smiles at Leaf Dental for over five years. My journey into dentistry started about 15 years ago after graduating from the University of Buffalo.

What I cherish most about my job is creating a comforting and reassuring atmosphere for children during their dental visits. An interesting fact about my early career is that I worked as a clown before stepping into dentistry. That initial passion for working with kids and bringing joy to their faces has seamlessly transitioned into my role as a pediatric dentist, allowing me to continue spreading smiles.

Outside of the office, I love engaging in water sports and have a unique hobby of jet skiing during my free time.

Amy

Hygienist

I'm Amy, and I've been a hygienist at Leaf Dental since 2014. I earned my dental hygiene and biology degrees from New York City College of Technology and Stony Brook University. As a hygienist, I provide clinical services and health education while helping my patients feel comfortable and confident in the dental chair. My patients motivate and inspire me everyday, and I cherish the connections and conversations I've had with them over the years. 

I always enjoyed going to the dentist as a kid. I didn't have the straightest teeth growing up, so when I started going to the orthodontist, I began developing an even deeper interest in dentistry because I saw little-by-little how much straight teeth were able to change my confidence.

In addition to being a hygienist, I'm a nap enthusiast who has a penchant for true-crime documentaries. When I'm not working, I enjoy trying new cuisines with my husband while listening about his day at work and being his life coach. 

Sharry

Hygienist

Hello, I'm Sharry! I'm a dental hygienist with a sweet tooth, but the only thing I love more than desserts is helping patients attain healthy, beautiful smiles they're proud to show off. I graduated from NYU's College of Dentistry, and I started my career as a dental assistant in 2007. I've been part of the Leaf Dental team since 2018, and I've enjoyed every minute of it. Our team is kind, hard-working, funny, and efficient––a perfect balance of all the right stuff! 

I love helping patients with their teeth and giving them shiny pearly whites. Plus, I really enjoy the flexibility and fast-paced nature of dental care. In my spare time, I enjoy trying out new restaurants, traveling, arts and crafts, cooking, and drawing. 

Candice

Hygienist

Hi there, I'm Candice! I'm a dental hygienist at Leaf Dental, and I graduated from New York City College in 2019. I enjoy meeting new patients, caring for their unique smiles, and keeping the dental office and my colleagues upbeat and positive. I also love interacting with all our dental staff and educating my patients on the importance of oral hygiene, which makes a huge impact on their lives and wellbeing. They can also spread the knowledge that they have learned to their friends and family!

In my spare time, I'm constantly searching for new, creative ways to express myself, whether it's soap-making, singing, or cooking. I also enjoy Yoga and perusing all the best streaming platforms for my next favorite film or series. 

Peter

Hygienist

Hi, I'm Peter! I'm a dental hygienist, adventurous foodie, and coffee culture enthusiast. I graduated from New York University College of Dentistry in Dental Hygiene, and I've been working in the dental field since 2018. I'm passionate about building trust with patients and making a difference in their lives through excellent oral health care. My main goal is to create patient-to-clinician rapport that builds trust and quality dental health while maintaining a friendly and healthy work environment.

In my spare time, I enjoy experimenting in the kitchen with unique recipes and exploring the city for new restaurants. 

Stephanie

Operations Manager

My name is Stephanie, and I'm the operations manager at Leaf Dental. I earned my BS in Accounting from CUNY Hunter College and my MBA from Boston University. I've been working in dentistry since 2007, and I joined Leaf Dental in 2016. I take great pride in helping our patients maximize their benefits so they can receive exceptional dentistry, and I enjoy meeting new people and learning about their unique pastimes and travels. It's my ultimate goal to motivate my team to provide a 5-star experience for our patients.

When I'm not at the dental office, I enjoy playing the guitar and ukulele, triathlon racing, and long-distance cycling. 

Victoria

Patient Coordinator

My name is Victoria, and I'm a patient coordinator. I've been at Leaf Dental since 2021, and I'm most passionate about helping others receive excellent dental care and ensuring they maximize their insurance benefits. Working at Leaf Dental brings me so much joy; my coworkers always make me laugh! My family lives on a different continent, so everyone at Leaf Dental has become my adopted US family. 

A fun fact about me: I have a secret crush on a certain American TV show host with a majestic mustache. I'll give you a hint: he hosts a game show where families feud for a chance to win big! I also enjoy going to Coney Island, reading, and soaking up all the sights and sounds of the city. One of my absolute favorite pastimes is going to IFC Center on weekend mornings while the rest of the city is still asleep. 

Cecily

Patient Coordinator

As a patient coordinator, I'm one of the first people you see when you arrive at Leaf Dental! I graduated from the College of Mount Saint Vincent and Monroe College, and I've been working in dentistry since 2017. I used to be a competitive figure skater, but I decided to leave my leotards behind for a career in dental care––though I still enjoy skating for fun. 

I've worked in dental offices around Manhattan and Long Island until joining Leaf Dental in 2021. One of my favorite aspects of my job is getting to know patients personally so they feel more comfortable and look forward to their dental visits. One of the most rewarding things about working with such a great and friendly staff is that when we do have patients who have dental anxiety, we can smoothly guide them through their appointment even before they step foot in the office. Most of the time––when they have the pleasure of meeting our patient coordinators, hygienists, dental assistants, and doctors––they find that they can leave their dental fears behind.

In my free time, I like to travel, take spontaneous road trips, and cuddle with my rescue pup, Andy.

Kelsey

Patient Coordinator

I'm Kelsey, and I'm a patient coordinator. I've been working in dentistry since 2019 and at Leaf Dental since February 2022. I attended the University of Connecticut and studied abroad at the University of Nottingham in England, which I absolutely loved. One of my favorite aspects of dentistry is seeing happy and healthy smiles, which inspires me everyday to continue doing my best.

I love the sense of teamwork and camaraderie that I have with my coworkers. I love the accomplishment we feel as a team when we work together to provide a patient with great service––from speaking to them on the phone to verifying their benefits to the actual office visit. It makes me extremely happy when a patient comments that we make it easy to visit the dentist! 

When I'm not helping our patients, I enjoy taking walks around Brooklyn with my pug Potato, watching horror movies, reading, and jamming out at pop-punk concerts. I also play pinball in a Brooklyn pinball league. One of my goals in life is to try every product at Trader Joe’s at least once. 

Natali

Patient Coordinator

I'm Natali, your patient coordinator at Leaf Dental. With two years in the dental industry, I recently joined this wonderful team and couldn't be happier. My role involves everything from managing your appointments to assisting in the check-in and check-out process. I'm also your go-to for all phone calls, emails, and in-person inquiries about appointments, treatment plans, and insurance matters. Rest assured, I adhere strictly to HIPAA regulations to safeguard your confidentiality.

What I love most about my job is the chance to interact with so many different people and tackle a variety of cases that challenge my problem-solving skills. It keeps my days interesting and fulfilling. My journey into the dental field is a bit unique—I used to be terrified of dentists, despite having family in the profession. I figured the best way to overcome this fear was to plunge right in, and now I can't imagine being anywhere else!

Outside of work, I’m passionate about swimming, hiking, and continuously learning new skills. I love sitting in the comfort of my bed, reading a book while listening to classical music. One unique hobby of mine is writing short stories; it's like a playground for my imagination!

Jelani

Patient Coordinator

Hello! I am a patient coordinator, a role I've truly embraced since joining the team. I'm often the first friendly face patients encounter when they come in, and it's my responsibility to manage appointments, send reminders about upcoming schedules or dues, and ensure a seamless transition to the doctor or hygienist.

While I don't have a formal education in dentistry, I've acquired invaluable knowledge and skills through on-the-job training. One of my favorite aspects of my job is the bond I share with my team. Everyone has been so welcoming, and I truly appreciate their support as I continue to grow in my role. My decision to venture into the dental field was driven by my desire to merge my extensive customer service background with a new industry.

Outside of work, I have a deep passion for music. I enjoy everything from playing instruments to crafting lyrics, and I'm currently learning to play the ocarina. Additionally, I have a special affinity for self-help and self-empowerment books. On a more personal note, I'm the eldest of six siblings, and I once had a pet duck named Chopper.

Monika

Dental Assistant

Cześć! My name is Monika, and I'm originally from Poland. I'm a dental assistant at Leaf Dental, and I love working in a field that's ever-evolving. There's always something new to learn, when it comes to dentistry, which is very exciting. I've been working in the dental field since 2014 and enjoy spending my days with patients and colleagues who feel like family. I'm so happy to call the city my second home! 

I'm also passionate about cosmetology and enjoy trying out new hairstyle and makeup trends. When I'm not at the dental office, I can usually be found exercising at the gym or unwinding with friends while watching Netflix. 

Manny

Dental Assistant

I'm Manny, one of the dental assistants at Leaf Dental. I'm a proud New Yorker with over 12 years of experience in dentistry, and I love being a part of the Leaf Dental team. 

My day-to-day responsibilities revolve around ensuring our patients receive top-notch dental care. From assisting the doctors in dental procedures to taking x-rays and performing digital scans, my primary aim is to see our patients leave with a smile.

What I love most about my job is the diversity of people I meet every day. Nothing brightens my work more than seeing patients from all walks of life leave our office smiling. That's probably because I love teeth so much—it's the reason I got into this field in the first place!

When I'm not in the dental office, you'll likely find me traveling. I have a passion for exploring new countries and learning about different cultures. I also love to sing and find it's a great means of self-expression. 

Eli

Dental Assistant

I'm Eli, a dental assistant at Leaf Dental. Born and raised in Uzbekistan, I moved to the United States at age 16 and eventually graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Biology Science. My career in dentistry spans over a decade, and I've had the honor to work with specialists in periodontics, surgery, endodontics, and pediatrics. 

As a dental assistant, my primary responsibilities include preparing and sterilizing dental instruments, assisting chair-side during dental procedures, and ensuring patient comfort at all times. What I love most about my job is building trust with patients and collaborating with a stellar team of dental professionals. It's rewarding to know I contribute to enhancing our patients' oral health and overall well-being.

Outside of work, my hobbies range from playing board games and chess to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming. I also have a knack for woodworking. And here's a fun fact: I once survived a white scorpion bite!

Feel free to ask me any questions during your visit, and I look forward to making your dental experience as comfortable as possible!

Leslie

Dental Assistant

Hi there!

My name is Leslie, and I joined the Leaf Dental team in May 2023. I take pride in meticulously preparing the operatories for procedures, maintaining high standards of cleanliness, and creating a positive work environment. 

My sister's aspirations in healthcare, combined with my personal interest in the field, drew me to dentistry. Initially working in a secretarial role at another dental office, I was presented with an opportunity to train as a dental assistant and eagerly took it up. Over the past two years, I've grown to love assisting patients in various ways, from facilitating x-rays to making them comfortable during their visit. I cherish the collaboration with my team, striving to provide excellent service every day. 

Outside work, I'm a bundle of energy and creativity. I love to channel my passion into drawing and painting. I also enjoy basketball, soccer, and tennis. One thing I'm particularly proud of is my monthly volunteering at my church's pantry. I help gather food for the homeless, and during the holidays, we make special efforts to deliver flowers to the elderly.

Something many might not know about me is that I'm bilingual. Growing up, I spoke Spanish at home and participated in a dual language program during my school years. This experience allowed me to become fluent in both English and Spanish, skills I've come to value both personally and professionally.