Although the recent article in The New York Times, "NFL-Approved Therapist for Fans Draws Scrutiny" made some important points, the article lost its focus on what’s important – that managing fan behavior at NFL sporting events enhances game experience and fan safety. Instead, the Times focused on areas of my biography that were out of date, citations that had not carried over from a prior, much larger program and two professional memberships that had lapsed. All of this has been fixed.
The Times also made reference to referral fees for professional services, which is simply inaccurate. For the last three years, I have worked closely with the NFL to create an online program to meet the needs for fan safety and improve the game day experience. My credentials have always been intact, I am both licensed, with advanced degrees, and specialize in this work. We have made great strides and we are proud of the momentum. The NFL and I will continue to move forward and make this program as strong as possible.
Ari Novick, Ph.D.
www.fanconductclass.com
On January 10th, 2013 an article surfaced about this NYT writer. Not exactly the most credible reporter. Read here