I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience specializing in trauma-informed care, substance use disorders, and mindfulness-based therapies. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic approaches to help clients gain deeper emotional understanding, develop practical coping skills, and navigate life’s challenges effectively. My focus areas include managing anxiety, depression, perfectionism, identity, and unresolved trauma.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During the first session, I focus on understanding your concerns, history, and hopes for therapy. We’ll work together to identify immediate challenges and long-term aspirations, creating a roadmap for treatment. My aim is to make you feel comfortable, supported, and empowered to share your story at your own pace.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My path to becoming a therapist began with a deep curiosity about human behavior and a desire to help others navigate complex emotions and experiences. My own challenges with perfectionism and a drive for self-improvement have given me a unique perspective that enhances my work with clients. I am inspired by the resilience of the human spirit and feel privileged to support others in their journeys toward healing and self-discovery. My greatest strengths include creating a warm, empathetic environment where clients feel heard and validated. I bring expertise in evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT, combined with a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma and individual experiences. My clients often appreciate my ability to balance compassion with actionable strategies for meaningful change.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am best positioned to serve individuals seeking deeper emotional understanding, relief from overwhelming stress or anxiety, and support in navigating life transitions. My clients often include those managing perfectionism, or trauma, as well as those looking to improve relationships, self-esteem, or coping strategies. If you’re ready to explore your authentic self, I’m here to help.
About Sherri PinaTanferani
Identifies as
Serves ages
Licensed in
Accepts
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is a foundational approach in my practice, and I have over 15 years of experience using this evidence-based method to help clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. In sessions, I guide clients through techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and problem-solving to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I tailor interventions to meet individual needs, focusing on actionable steps to achieve goals and improve daily functioning. I use CBT collaboratively with clients to explore the connections between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we develop practical strategies to challenge unhelpful beliefs and build healthier coping mechanisms. My goal is to empower clients with skills they can use independently outside of therapy.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
In my work as a therapist, I’ve found that real change happens when we stop swinging between extremes and learn to sit with both acceptance and the desire to grow. That’s where Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) comes in. DBT offers practical tools for handling tough emotions, improving relationships, and staying grounded during life’s chaos. I use it daily to help clients manage anxiety, regulate emotions, and build stronger connections—with others and with themselves.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I have extensive experience using Solution-Focused Brief Treatment (SFBT) in my practice to help clients identify and build on their strengths and resources to achieve their goals. This approach focuses on the present and future, emphasizing small, realistic steps toward solutions rather than dwelling on past problems. In sessions, I collaborate with clients to clarify their desired outcomes, identify what’s working well, and explore strategies to replicate success. By focusing on achievable goals and highlighting progress, SFBT empowers clients to feel more confident and motivated in navigating challenges.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
In my work using Emotionally Focused Therapy, I’ve supported clients in uncovering and naming their core emotional needs—needs like feeling safe, seen, and connected. Together, we’ve explored what makes it hard for them to express these needs, especially within close family relationships where vulnerability often feels risky. I help model open, emotion-based communication in session, giving clients a safe space to practice sharing in new, more honest ways. We also spend time identifying the negative patterns they get stuck in with others—those repeating cycles that leave them feeling unheard or shut down—and we look closely at the emotional toll those interactions take. It’s powerful to see clients begin to shift those patterns and move toward more authentic, connected relationships.