A former executive and board leader with a New York psychotherapy organization was charged Thursday with larceny and money laundering in connection with an alleged $2.5-million theft from the group, according to Crain’s New York Business and The New York Times.

Jeffrey Bernstein pleaded not guilty to allegations that he shifted money from the nonprofit Albert Ellis Institute, a research and education organization for mental-health professionals, into bank accounts he controlled and used the money for personal expenses.

Mr. Bernstein, a former fast-food mogul, was named president of the institute’s board in 2006 and later served as the group’s director of administration. He also chaired the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce from 2008 until last August, when he resigned.