Brandie Chaney obtained a Master’s Degree in Social Work from University of Connecticut School of Social Work (2015) and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut (2009). Brandie has over 14 years of experience in the field of human services in a variety of settings. Brandie has provided clinical services in residential treatment settings, private practice and in child welfare. Her most recent experience includes psychotherapy for individuals, families, and couples. Brandie has supported youth, and caregivers through adoption, family preservation efforts, domestic violence, homelessness, and child abuse/neglect. Brandie has a passion for working with adolescents and their families to help resolve parent-child conflict, depression, serious mental illness, and substance use. Brandie provides therapy to adults, families, and adolescents. Brandie utilizes a range of treatment modalities including solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy, relational cultural theory, mindfulness, and family systems. Brandie believes in the power of vulnerability and the importance of relationships. Brandie's goal is to always promote change by building a therapeutic bond based on warmth and trust. She fosters close connections with her clients that demonstrate the role empathy plays in the change process.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Brandie’s ideal client is an individual yearning for change; someone who may be currently hopeless but is motivated to make the changes they need. She believes that we all can live the life we dream of if we tap into the best parts of ourselves. She has worked with clients involved with the criminal justice system, juvenile court, and child welfare systems. Past clients have included those coping with homelessness, substance abuse, poverty, depression, anxiety, parenting issues, loss, grief, and domestic violence. She understands the impact of stress and wants her clients to be equipped to manage challenging situations without fear.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
Brandie specializes in therapeutic approaches to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. Brandie utilizes a relational approach which focuses on the role relationships play in shaping our daily experiences, attempts to help people understand patterns appearing in the thoughts and feelings they have toward themselves.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Brandie understands that individuals seek therapy for reasons including job loss, relationship matters, grief, trauma, and stress. She wants you to know that you are not alone and seeking help is a major accomplishment. She believes that you should celebrate this moment because it is the first step to fulfilling your goals and living the life that makes you happy.