Therapists in Connecticut

Have you been experiencing challenges related to personal relationships or workplace stress? Have you been experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, or frustration? Are you having difficulty finding happiness or fulfillment in your life? Hi, I'm Jessica, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider (CTMH). I am licensed in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and Maine. I specialize in working with individuals on a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, social issues and stressors, boundary setting, and workplace difficulties. I know that life can be tough sometimes, and I'm here to offer you a safe and supportive space to talk about whatever you're going through. I believe that everyone has the potential to heal and grow, and I'm committed to helping you reach your full potential. I use a variety of client-centered, evidenced-based therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and skill-building to meet the individual needs of my clients. I'm passionate about helping people, and I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool for change. If you are struggling with anything, please do not hesitate to reach out. I would be honored to work with you.

The overall theme of my life is a journey to deepen my appreciation and understanding of human experience. Along the way I have become a mental health counselor, Zen practitioner and meditator, anthropologist and archeologist, tango and swing dance instructor and performer, songwriter, and guitarist. I bring these various experiences into my counseling practice through mindfulness, creativity, and awareness of multiculturalism. I feel that despite the ups and downs of life, it is possible to find fulfillment and joy through developing a broad perspective, open mind, and attention to the momentary experiences of everyday life. I hope to offer others relief from their suffering and greater appreciation for their lives.

​Struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, or OCD can feel isolating, but help is available. I specialize in working with late teens and adults to untangle complex emotions and build lasting resilience. Clients often find my therapeutic style easy to connect with, creating a secure environment for genuine progress. If you are ready to understand what’s holding you back, contact me for a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are the right fit.

My name is Rick Amaral, ACSW, LCSW. Let me begin by fully introducing myself and sharing with you my years of experience as a clinician, manager and director. I have been working with children, teens and adult in many different formats (i.e. individual, family work, group work) for over 30 years in both private practice, as well as with local community mental health agencies. I am also an Adjunct Professor at the local area colleges for the past 20+ years, teaching both psychology and sociology courses (both graduate and undergraduate level courses). In our sessions, I would like to utilize a strengths-based approach that works alongside you to identify areas that you would like to work on. Acknowledging that all cars come with rearview mirrors, I would like to spend some time hearing from you about past life events and journey that you think have contributed to your development (both positively and otherwise). My preferred way of assisting you is to focus on a Life Narrative format. Such narratives allow for many chapters, some written, many left to be written. When warranted, I will provide psycho-educational information on topics of interest (i.e. diagnosis, skill building, coping skills, mindfulness, etc..) and will share with you both local and community supports that you could draw upon after our time together has come to a close.

I would like to introduce myself to you. I have 30 years of experience as a therapist and am so glad that I chose this as a career because I get great satisfaction from helping clients feel better about themselves and their life! I know that starting therapy can be difficult so I commend you and congratulate you for trying therapy.

Hello there! Kudos to you for taking this step! Transition and growth require courage, which is why it is impressive that you have chosen to take this first step. As an Air Force veteran, I bring a grounded, dedicated, and compassionate perspective to my practice. As a disabled veteran, as a social worker who has worked heavily in the field of supporting people with different abilities, I have grown to become significantly person-centered in my practice, seeking to allow every client to have a voice, while considering each client as the expert in their healing journey. I am not here to tell you who to be, but t help highlight the strengths you already possess. Together, we will create a safe, collaborative space where your vice is the priority and your healing is the mission.

With 35 years of experience as a social worker, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages—from children and teens to couples and families. Over the years, I have honed a deep understanding of the unique challenges people face, whether it's managing depression, anxiety, or navigating difficult life transitions. As a stepmother of 38 years, I bring firsthand experience with the complexities of stepfamily dynamics, and I specialize in helping blended families find harmony. I believe in the power of a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. As a good listener, I am committed to working alongside you to create a treatment plan that reflects your unique needs and aspirations. Together, we'll focus on your goals and take meaningful steps towards you becoming the best version of yourself. I am excited about the opportunity to work with you and support your journey to healing and growth.

As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a compassionate, client-centered approach to helping individuals, teenagers, and families navigate the complex challenges that life often presents. With a deep understanding of trauma informed care, I have dedicated my career to supporting those who have experienced emotional, psychological, or developmental trauma, offering a safe and supportive environment where healing and growth can occur. My work with teenagers involves addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, peer pressure, identity development, and family conflict, while also fostering emotional regulation, communication skills, and self-esteem. I also provide guidance and therapeutic support to families struggling with relational breakdowns, parenting challenges, and intergenerational trauma, using a strengths based and systems-focused approach to promote resilience and connection. In my work with adults, I help individuals process complex emotions, rebuild their sense of safety, and move toward a life of empowerment and meaning. Whether providing individual therapy, family counseling, or group sessions, I strive to create an atmosphere of trust, cultural sensitivity, and non-judgment, recognizing the unique story and journey of every client. I draw on evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and trauma-focused interventions to help clients build skills, improve functioning, and work through past wounds. My goal is to not only help clients survive their experiences, but to thrive despite them to discover their inner strength, reconnect with their values, and write new narratives of hope and possibility. I believe that healing is a collaborative process, and I am honoured to walk alongside my clients in their journey toward mental, emotional, and relational wellness.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in CT with over 30 years of experience as a therapist. I have a BA in theatre and drama and the realized I liked understanding the characters better than playing them. I entered nursing school and after a few years I realized I liked helping the patients in hospital to manage their fears and concerns regarding their medical issues. I then decided to attend graduate school at Southern CT State University to gain my MSW. I then was licensed 2 years after I graduated and received my LCSW. I work with adults 18-65 as well older seniors. I have over 30 years of experience as a therapist helping people to be their best selves, to feel empowered in their lives and to heal.

Nekeisha Hutchinson, LPC, earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Post University in 2017 and has worked with a diverse demographic in a clinical capacity including outpatient and in-home settings conducting both individual and family therapy, within the Department of Corrections with clients struggling with substance use challenges and crisis services over the past seven years. Prior to becoming a therapist, Nekeisha spent 10 years working in early childhood education and seven years working as a Family Support Specialist in homes with both prenatal and postnatal mothers providing support in attachment building and assisting them in securing community resources. Nekeisha has experience working with adolescents, adults, senior citizens and families.

Hi! Do you want freedom from the heavy burdens of life? I offer a unique blend of therapy approaches tailored to meet your individual needs. I have decades of lived and professional experience in negotiating life changes and stressors. I use a tailored approach with all of my clients to ensure that we are meeting the goals that led them to seek treatment. Contentment and joy are the goals of therapy. When you're ready to leave the stress and discomfort you are feeling behind, I'm prepared to help you. Schedule our first session and I'll get you on the road to feeling better today.

Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Stamford, CT. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Connecticut and have been in the field of social work for over 30 years. I help adults navigate their dally lives and assist them to live a healthy and happy life. I look forward to working with you.

Welcome! I'm Javiola Castillo, a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor with over eight years of experience. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate trauma, substance use, depression, and anxiety. My approach is relaxed and compassionate, focusing on your personal growth and well-being. Together, we'll create a safe, judgment-free space where you'll feel valued and understood. Let's discover your inner strengths and build your self-worth!

My journey in helping others meet their mental health goals began at Westfield State College in 2004, graduating summa cum laude with a bachelor in social work. After raising 2 children I returned to what had become Westfield State University and completed my masters degree in one year with the goal of becoming a clinical therapist. Since that time I have worked with clients from 12-90 get the support they need.

I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am a compassionate social worker who is an active listener, who is dedicated to working tirelessly to help you resolve issues and thrive on your own terms. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, situational family therapy, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and NLP I also have experience in grief and bereavement counseling. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with mindfulness.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Therapist in NY, CT and PA with over 33 years of clinical expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Grief and Bereavement Therapy, Geriatrics and Palliative Care. I have worked in private practice, hospital, community facilities, client's homes and remote telehealth settings. My credentials include Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) , Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker (ACHP-SW) and Clinical Social Worker in Gerontology (CSW-G). When you are ready to focus on what matters most to you, l would be honored to support you. You can self schedule with me at a time that is convenient for you. I look forward to speaking with you soon.

I bring an integrative approach to sessions. My multicultural background and extensive experience in individual and group therapy as well as supervision, have taught me that the relationship is at the core of any successful therapeutic alliance. I have lived in large urban areas and small rural communities and have worked in a variety of settings in this country and other countries. I am told that I bring a warm yet direct approach to the room, wether in person or virtually. I invite you to join me in this adventure called life. I have a large set of tools to draw from, and I adapt my approach to your individual needs. From short term couples or individual sessions to address a specific issue, to complex life long traumas and life hardships, together we create a plan that is specific to your life.

I am Emmanuel Ihemedu, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Connecticut with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Connecticut. My journey as both a pastor and a counselor has been deeply rooted in a commitment to healing, growth, and transformation. With nearly two decades of experience in providing compassionate support, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's most challenging moments, whether they are dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. I serve clients who are seeking not just relief from their immediate struggles but also a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences. My approach is holistic, integrating evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a deep understanding of the spiritual dimensions of healing. Whether you are facing emotional distress, grappling with life transitions, or searching for greater fulfillment, my goal is to guide you toward a place of peace, strength, and self-discovery. Through our work together, I aim to empower you to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and achieve lasting change. I am here to walk alongside you on your journey, providing a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, gain new insights, and develop the tools you need to lead a more fulfilling life.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Connecticut with 13 years' experience working with teens, adults, and older adults overcome the challenges in their lives. Whether you are transitioning to college or retirement, I can help you cope with the changes life brings to us in a way that will make you feel fulfilled and balanced again. You deserve the best life has to offer and I can help you refocus, work through hard decisions, and see life in a positive light. Whether you are dealing with a specific life transition, anxiety/depression or trauma, I can help you achieve your goal of feeling better about yourself and the world.

I'm an older African-American male with more than 35 years of clinical experience. I've back"been told, I'm "laid back and easy to talk to". I've have worked with young children to elders in their 80's and 90's. I have worked with disabled person, care givers to the disable and elders. I have personally cared for disabled elders. I'm still learning clinical skills and doing my best to keep up with digital tech.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Connecticut. I received my degree from Fairfield University and have over 20 years experience specializing in working with adults managing stress, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues and life transitions. I prefer an integrative approach to meet you where you are at in your life. My goal is to help you achieve your goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the state of NC, SC, GA, CT, MA and IN. I am the sole therapist of Empathic Hues Counseling and Consultation, PLLC. My practice was created to help adults dealing with depression, anxiety and needing guidance with adjusting to to a change in quality of life. I hope to help individuals find peace needed to have more control over their lives and confidently overcome challenges. My goal is to help you understand “you” as well as focus on developing your internal and external strengths.

Hello there! I'm Deshanae, a dedicated therapist on a mission to inspire, empower, and advocate for the incredible individuals in our community. My heart is firmly rooted in providing top-notch, personalized mental healthcare to my community. Our sessions are all about empowering you to become your best self. I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Are you ready?

I truly believe that when we start a therapy journey, it is a huge step because you’re entrusting someone with the ability to provide you with care and guidance to address your needs. There is nothing I take more pride in as a therapist than being able to support the people who have trusted me with their care. I believe that through collaborative work, we can help you gain insight and direction to resolve the things you desire. I hold a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from New York University. I’m part of Resolute, a practice offering high-quality, insurance-covered therapy and psychiatry, with comprehensive support to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for our clients. For additional help, reach out to the Resolute support team. I look forward to meeting you!

I am a compassionate clinician with an abiding interest in people. At my core, I believe in the dignity of human life, and has dedicated my life in the service of my fellow humans to improve their lot in life, and achieve their true potential as productive members of society. I help clients navigate life difficulties, be it serious medical diagnosis, major life events or developing adaptive coping strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of death and dying and grief and loss. As a versatile multi-state licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist with backgrounds in community mental health, medical, individual, family, group, hospice and palliative care, and geriatric social work practice experience, I am in the "helping business", willing ready and able to help.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Columbia University. My concentration was clinical practice in health and mental health settings. For the past 14 years I have been working in a hospital setting. During this time I have worked with individuals and families facing serious illness, life altering diagnosis, grief, substance abuse, homelessness as well as various other life transitions, depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

Hello, I’m Demetria Agharese. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and phobias. I’m dedicated to helping you find relief, clarity, and confidence in your daily life. Supporting others has always been at the heart of who I am. My practice is grounded in empathy, understanding, and a deep commitment to your emotional well-being. In our work together, you’ll find a safe, nonjudgmental space where your worries can be explored with compassion, your experiences are heard, and your challenges are met with evidence-based tools and consistent support. Whether you’re working to break free from intrusive thoughts, manage overwhelming emotions, or reconnect with hope and motivation, we will move at a pace that feels right for you. My goal is to help you heal, grow, and create a life that feels calmer, brighter, and more aligned with the person you want to become.

I am a licensed clinical therapist for over 25 years with a focus on helping individuals navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and problem-solving. My approach is grounded in creating a supportive and respectful space where clients feel truly heard and understood. I believe that meaningful change begins with being seen, not just for your struggles, but for your strengths. Using a combination of strength-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing, I work collaboratively with clients to identify patterns, clarify goals, and develop effective strategies for growth and resilience. I aim to support you in moving forward with clarity and confidence.

I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed alcohol and drug counselor in the state of Connecticut with 50 years of clinical experience. I supervise graduate mental health interns for many years. I am the president of the Family Intervention Center and in private practice for over 30 years. I am also A Substance Abuse Professional Substance abuse evaluations for safety sensitive employees who have tested positive in the random drug screen working with the federal Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

I have extensive experience in serving adults, adolescents, children, and families by providing mental health counseling, domestic violence prevention, substance use prevention, addiction recovery, career counseling, family support, career coaching and education. I enjoy live theater productions, watching classic movies, reading biographies, listening to music, traveling, and spending time with family. I will look forward to working with you soon.

*** PLEASE READ FIRST: For some reason, Grow's scheduling system does not work with mine. There is a very good chance that I will message having to reschedule an intake due to this. Please still feel free to book, and then be on the lookout for a message from me and we can find a time that works better!*** I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions with greater clarity, resilience, and self-compassion. My approach is collaborative, grounded, and deeply empathetic — I believe therapy should be a safe space where you can show up as your full self without judgment. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply seeking personal growth, I’m here to walk alongside you with curiosity, support, and practical tools for meaningful change. You are not your diagnosis, and therapy is not about "fixing" anything. Therapy is about accepting and embracing challenges rather than trying to avoid or escape them. You don’t have to go through this alone — let’s connect and see if we’re a good fit. *Please note- I am not always on the ball with my schedule and occasionally I will forget to update my calendar here. It doesn't happen often, but on occasion, until we find a permanent time I may have to message about rescheduling.*

Welcome, my name is Felice, (like ~Felice Navidad). I know that reaching out for counseling takes courage, and I want you to know you don’t have to walk through life’s challenges alone. My role as a therapist is to create a safe, supportive space where you can share your story, explore your struggles, and discover practical tools for healing and growth. With over 20 years of experience in education, counseling, and supporting individuals from all walks of life, I specialize in helping people through grief, adoption journeys, and major life transitions. I also work with clients facing anxiety, stress, self-esteem challenges, caregiving responsibilities, and relationship concerns. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I often integrate trauma-informed care, CBT techniques, and faith-based perspectives when desired, to help you find hope and resilience. Whether you are navigating personal loss, family changes, or simply seeking a healthier way forward, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we can work toward building peace, confidence, and new possibilities for your life.

Hi, friends call me Kate. I have been Board Certified for 22 years and bring a variety of work experience to the table. I am retired from outpatient behavioral health at a Regional Hospital and work part time exclusively doing telehealth. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Connecticut and Pennsylvania. Are you going through a rough patch in your life? Sometimes when life gets tough, it helps to share that burden with someone else. Voicing your hardships with a professional experienced therapist Is the first step in helping you to feel better. Is it hard for you to balance work life and home life? Let’s work together so that we can create a way to better handle the stress that life presents. If you need tools to better cope with anxiety and depression, we can work on that. Perhaps you are grieving a loved one or a lost lifestyle. I’ve had lots of experience with parent coaching and enjoy helping families live a more positive life.

I am an experienced professional with a strong background in supporting people facing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and depression, life changes, lack of confidence, communication issues, and chronic illness. I work collaboratively with clients to identify practical, meaningful changes that can create the greatest positive impact in their lives. My approach is interactive, respectful, direct, encouraging, and sometimes includes a bit of humor. I strive to create a supportive environment that is both encouraging and authentic. If you’re ready to move toward meaningful change, I invite you to take the first step today. I do not treat substance abuse or addictions. I do not do court related work.

I am a licensed clinical social worker and therapist dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed care. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, and families who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, relationship issues, and life transitions. My practice integrates evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. I am deeply committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel empowered to explore their stories, heal from emotional wounds, and build meaningful lives. Through our work together, clients often experience greater emotional resilience, improved self-esteem, and more fulfilling relationships. My goal is to support clients in reclaiming their voice, strengthening their coping skills, and fostering long-term mental wellness.

From an early age, I discovered a strong passion for helping others. During high school, I was deeply influenced by my favorite teacher, a student of renowned psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg, best known for his theory on the stages of moral development. Her mentorship inspired me to pursue a career in the helping professions, where I could make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. I went on to earn my undergraduate degree in Human Services with a minor in Gerontology, laying the foundation for a career focused on compassion, advocacy, and evidence-based practice. Over the years, I have specialized in working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. In my clinical work, I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT), and supportive counseling. My approach is grounded in empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to fostering resilience and personal growth.

Hello, my name is Brendette, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals on their path to healing and growth. My work is grounded in empathy, compassion, and inclusiveness, and I believe every person deserves to be seen, heard, and valued. My approach is both goal-oriented and person-centered. I often work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, and I use evidence-based techniques to help them find healthier ways to cope and move forward. Together, we focus on building on your strengths while developing tools that will support long-term change.

Hi, and welcome!👋 My name is Trisha, and I am licensed to practice in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Florida , Idaho & Vermont. Whether you’re here after months of searching or just browsing, you’ve already taken a step toward change—and I’m glad you’re here. If you’re ready for a therapy experience that blends compassion🕊️ with practical tools🛠️, and structure📅 with flexibility, let’s talk. The path forward may not be easy, but it will be worth it—and you don’t have to walk it alone. I specialize in treating Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts🧠 stuck in exhausting anxiety cycles🔄 or caught self destructive patterns🧩 that don’t serve you, I can help you break free from those loops. Together, we’ll map your symptoms,🧭 understand your triggers💡, and create a step-by-step plan📍 to face fears, build coping skills, and regain a sense of freedom ✨and control🕊️. Anxiety & Related Disorders ✔️Panic Disorder ✔️Somatization Disorders ✔️Generalized Anxiety Disorder ✔️Specific Phobias ✔️Health Anxiety ✔️Somatization Disorder Addiction and Compulsive Behaviors ✔️Overspending ✔️ Gambling ✔️ Overeating ✔️Shoplifting Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Disorders ✔️Contamination, Cleaning & Checking OCD ✔️Harm OCD (intrusive fears of harming self or others) ✔️Relationship (ROCD) ✔️Scrupulosity/Religious OCD ✔️Magical Thinking ✔️Pure "O" ✔️Hoarding Disorder ✔️Tic Disorders ✔️Hair Pulling & Skin Picking ✔️Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) ✔️Skin Picking (Excoriation Disorder) My therapy style is structured🗺️, skills-based🧩, and collaborative. I use evidence-based treatments, including: ✔️Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and related disorders ✔️Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for restructuring unhelpful thought patterns ✔️Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for building psychological flexibility You don’t have to come in knowing the right terminology or approach; my role is to guide you, keep us focused, and help you take meaningful action🌱 between se

Hi, my name is Yocheved Pearl Newman, and I’m a licensed therapist with a passion for supporting individuals through healing, growth, and self-discovery. I specialize in working with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, and relational challenges. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative, integrating evidence-based practices such as EMDR and mindfulness to help clients feel more grounded and empowered. I believe in creating a safe space where every client feels seen, heard, and supported.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina. I received my Masters from West Virginia University and have been practicing for 8 years. I specialize in clinical assessments, including Comprehensive Clinical Assessments (CCA) to support diagnosis and referrals to outpatient providers, as well as work accommodations, FMLA, and ESA assessments. I do not conduct ADHD or autism evaluations.

Hello, my name is Bernard Scott, and I live in Boston Massachusetts. I attended Boston Public Schools, attended Boston University for my bachelor's degree, Simmons University for my master's degree, and Southern California School of Professional Studies where I received my Doctorate (PsyD) in Counseling Psychology. I became licensed in (psychiatric) Clinical Social Work and received my LICSW License in 1996. I have been in this field for over 35 years and worked in a number of clinics, hospitals in Boston and Brockton. I enjoy helping people find their inner strength and work through those subconscious unresolved issues from the past so that the individual can finally be free from childhood traumas, past relationship issues ect. I strongly believe that between the developmental ages of 1 through 18 can and does affect who you are today and what ever happened to you between that time still has a hold on you today at the ages of 20, 30 50, etc. Getting rid of all that hurt, anger, trauma, etc. so that you can address it, work through it, come to terms with it and ultimately leave it all behind, and unload it.