Maressa Hecht Orzack

Noted psychologist, and loving mother, Maressa Hecht Orzack (86) of Mystic Conn. formerly of Newton, Mass. passed away, Nov. 11, 2010. Dr. Orzack died peacefully after a long illness. She is survived by her children, Deborah S. Orzack of Worcester, Mass.; Steven S. Orzack and wife Arianne Cherbuliez of Cambridge, Mass.; and Elizabeth Orzack Friedman and husband, Joshua Friedman of Waterford, Conn.; her grandchildren Margot Elizabeth Friedman, Abraham Jacob Friedman, and Nora Cherbuliez-Orzack. She was predeceased by her husband, Louis Hirsch Orzack in 2003. Dr. Orzack, who specialized in cognitive behavior therapy was Clinical Associate in the Psychology and Psychopharmacology Program, Coordinator of the Behavior Therapy Affective Disease Program at McLean Hospital, and Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School. Dr. Orzack became a major pioneer in the clinical care and research in the field of computer and internet addiction, founding Computer Addictions Therapy Services at McLean Hospital (www.computeraddiction.com). Dr. Orzack volunteered with the Newton Democratic Party, Massachusetts League of Women's Voters, Newton Public Schools and was involved with the early civil rights movement. She was an active member of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, WGBH, New England Bromeliad Society, National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts, American Playing Card Society, Red Rabbit and was a founding member of the International Playing Card Society. Dr. Orzack loved nature, classical music, opera, art and chocolate. She and her husband traveled extensively pursuing their interests in nature, collecting historical and political playing cards, miniatures, and visiting exotic and historic locations. She was a member of Temple Israel in Brookline, Mass., where a memorial service will be held on Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Newton Free Library, 330 Homer Street, Newton, Ma 02459. A Full obituary is available at www.neilanfuneralhome.com