Joe Crego, LCSW - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Joe Crego

Joe Crego

(he/him)

LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual

Life often times brings us through situations that become complex based on the unique way we view the world. This complexity of thought emotions and preconceived notions form the manner in which we cope with or deal with life. This is especially true when dealing with addiction, anxiety, trauma, anger, depression, divorce; and those times our lives when things just don't seem right. Together we will create an awareness of you. Through this awareness the areas needing change will surface, it is then that the skills needed to implement the change you have chosen are developed.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

n our first session together, we'll start with brief introductions, then dive into the specific challenges you're facing. This will help me create a tailored plan for us to work through in follow-up sessions.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Having worked with adults for most of my professional life, I've developed a manner of working with individuals to (a) identify the root cause of your challenges and (b) create a tailored plan that leads to measurable progress.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I specialize in addiction, trauma and combat PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and depression. I feel that we are only able to react to situations based on learned responses, treatment is a way to develop new healthier responses. I draw from my training in many therapeutic modalities in treatment. I speak understand and am culturally competent in Spanish. I have many years experience working with the adult Hispanic population. I have extensive knowledge of the cultural needs and requirements in treating depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder and others.

About Joe Crego

Identifies as

Man

Serves ages

Licensed in

Address

262 Marlborough St, Portland, CT 06480, Suite 206

Appointments

Virtual & in-person

My treatment methods

Psychodynamic

Psychodynamic therapy highlights its depth and focus on uncovering the underlying causes of emotional and psychological struggles. This therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of understanding unconscious processes, unresolved conflicts, and past experiences that may influence current behavior, thoughts, and relationships. One of its strengths is its potential for long-lasting change. Rather than focusing solely on managing symptoms, psychodynamic therapy aims to achieve insight and self-awareness, which can lead to profound shifts in how individuals view themselves and interact with the world. It’s particularly beneficial for exploring complex emotional issues, relationship dynamics, and identity concerns. Additionally, it fosters a safe space for clients to delve into their inner world, allowing for reflection and growth. Psychodynamic therapy is particularly useful for individuals seeking deeper self-understanding or grappling with complex and longstanding psychological challenges. It thrives in settings where the therapist can spend time building rapport and exploring the client's life in detail, such as private practice or long-term therapy contexts.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) during a session to empower clients to identify and reshape negative thought patterns that influence their emotions and behaviors. The beauty of CBT lies in its practicality and evidence-based approach—it provides tools that clients can apply immediately to make meaningful changes in their lives. For example, a therapist might help a client recognize automatic negative thoughts, like "I'm a failure" or "Things will never get better." Using CBT techniques, the therapist guides the client to challenge these thoughts by examining their accuracy, considering alternative perspectives, and creating more balanced, realistic self-talk, such as "I've faced challenges before and succeeded, I can do it again." **In practice, I: 1. **Use thought records**: These structured exercises allow clients to document their negative thoughts and assess the evidence for and against them. 2. **Introduce behavioral experiments**: Clients can test out new behaviors or ways of thinking in real-life scenarios, like practicing assertiveness or managing anxiety-provoking situations. 3. **Teach relaxation or grounding techniques**: To manage overwhelming emotions and support mindfulness. 4. **Collaborate on setting goals**: Help clients identify specific, measurable objectives they can work toward, like reducing procrastination or improving communication skills. CBT is particularly effective for addressing issues like anxiety, depression, and stress, as it equips clients with practical strategies for managing these challenges. In session, therapists can foster a supportive and collaborative environment, ensuring clients feel engaged and motivated to apply these techniques.