Hello! I am Marissa Garfunkel and I am an LCSW in CT. I have been practicing in the field for about 14 years and presently am working toward my Doctorate of Social Work to further my abilities to aid my clients on their journeys. I place strong value on the relationship that I have with individuals, feeling that the therapeutic alliance creates space for transformation to occur. My goal is to meet my clients where they are at, utilizing a client's natural and organic strengths as a starting point for treatment. I don't believe treatment is a "one size fits all," recognizing that certain techniques and interventions may benefit one client but not another. I value individuals lived experiences and intersectional identities, exploring how these experiences have shaped an individual. I look forward to engaging in collaborative work with my clients to work toward their individual goals.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During your first appointment I will engage you in an intake assessment where I obtain information about various aspects of your background, your current symptoms, and your treatment goals. I attempt to gain initial trust and begin to establish a working relationship between us.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I am very relationally focused and put our relationship at the forefront of treatment. I believe that this is relationship is what produces the transformative work. I also believe in breaking down power differentials that have historically existed within therapeutic spaces. YOU ARE THE EXPERT ON YOU, not me. I honor each individuals lived experiences and explore their intersectional identities to fully embrace who you are.
About Marissa Garfunkel
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I explore the connection between a client's emotional, cognitive, and behavioral presentations. I look to target and address problematic patterns of thinking and behavioral patterns that are sustaining present mood symptoms.
Trauma-Focused CBT
I use a trauma focused perspective when engaging in CBT. I ensure development of coping skills and explore the impact that trauma has on the view of self/others/worldview.
Grief Therapy
I look to help individuals process significant losses, both death and non-death losses. I aim to help people learn to walk with their grief, incorporation of it, and engage n meaning making.
Relational
In aligned with relational-cultural theory, I believe that we grow through and toward growth fostering relationships. I help individuals identify relational dynamics that promote growth and those that have hindered it. I help individuals explore how they can create connections to promote mental health and well-being.
Eclectic
I attempt to integrate numerous perspectives and treatment types. I try to tailor my techniques to the client who is in front of me. One style or technique may not always work for everyone, we as therapists must be flexible to meet the needs of individuals.