Teenagers Therapists in Connecticut

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.

Joey Meuser, owner and therapist at Chroma Wellness, provides compassionate, LGBTQIA+ affirming care rooted in a holistic approach that honors the mind-body connection. Specializing in CBT, ACT, and mindfulness, Joey helps clients navigate life’s challenges, break unhelpful patterns, and develop practical skills for lasting change. With warmth and understanding, Joey empowers clients to build emotional resilience, self-awareness, and a more fulfilling life.

Hello my name is Amneris (she/her). Don't be fooled by how young I look, I've been practicing social worker since 2021 in various areas and working primary with school aged children and there families. The last few years I have found it rewarding and exciting working with young adults. That experience has taught me that we all need support getting through life challenges. I'm looking forward to meeting you.

I am a licensed mental health counselor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s transitions, heal from past experiences, and reconnect with their authentic selves. I work with adults who are seeking growth, clarity, and confidence whether they are moving through grief, adjusting to motherhood, exploring identity, or developing as leaders. My approach blends evidence-based methods with mindfulness and mind-body practices to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel seen and empowered. Together, we uncover strengths, shift unhelpful patterns, and build resilience so that clients can move forward with greater balance, self-acceptance, and purpose.

I have lived a long and colorful life. Like everyone else, I've made good and bad choices and learned from each. I have 22+ years experience in the mental health and substance abuse treatment field. I DO NOT JUDGE, AT ALL, PERIOD. I can be both blunt and gentle as appropriate. My role is to offer another perspective, a way to see life more fully and function better, no more, no less. I don't pretend to have all the answers but only one slice of wisdom. I just share what can help someone. Some people are not yet ready to be helped. Yet for those who are feeling lost on life's journey and are willing to listen and learn, I'm here to assist. My life work can be summed up in three words, "offering people hope. " "The wound is where the light enters." - Jeladdin Rumi "A coward dies a thousand deaths, a brave man only once." Martin Luther King Jr. "Wouldn't take nothin' for my journey now." - Maya Angelou "The past is gone, and there is left only a blessing." - Kahlil Gibran "Be true to yourself, and you will be false to no one else." - William Shakespeare "How very lucky are we, for just a moment to be, part of life's eternal rhyme." Charlotte's Web, movie "Not all who wander are lost." J.R.R. Tolkien

Hi there! You've made it this far and I'm glad you're seeking support. Life can be difficult, especially with the holidays coming up. I'm Carol, a Licensed Professional Counselor with Caribbean roots, passionate about helping people like you lead emotionally healthy and fulfilling lives and move from feeling overwhelmed, worried, anxious or self‑doubt toward clarity. I’m here to help you feel seen, heard, validated, empowered and reclaim your voice and your strength.  I provide a sensitive space where your experiences are understood and respected.

My name is Christopher Raposo. I’m a trained and licensed clinical social worker. My work experience has been in acute psychiatric hospitalization, outpatient substance abuse, and community behavioral health clinics. I’ve worked with a clientele suffering from a vast array of disorders, backgrounds, and life stressors. The work we do as a team mostly consists of psychoeducation, therapy, and a therapeutic alliance defined by treatment goals and objectives.

I am a licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed, integrating cognitive-behavioral, attachment-based, and mindfulness techniques. I believe you are the expert of your own story and that you already possess many strengths to help you overcome life’s challenges. Taking the first step to begin therapy takes courage, and I’m proud of you for getting started. Together, we’ll work toward greater peace, purpose, and connection.

Hi! I’m Stasia Timan, LMHC, and I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience supporting clients with a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, OCD, emotional dysregulation, and life transitions. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment tailored to each client’s needs. I emphasize using developmentally appropriate, evidence-based techniques to help clients build coping skills, process thoughts and emotions, and cultivate resilience. I am particularly passionate about using play as a therapeutic tool to help younger clients express themselves and navigate challenges in a meaningful way. Through play, children can process emotions, resolve conflicts, and develop coping skills in a safe environment. In my sessions with adults, I utilize various evidence-based techniques, like CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. We will focus on exploring coping skills that work for you and work together to process emotions and gain helpful insights. I enjoy finding creative ways to engage clients and focus on individualized treatment. My approach is personalized, focusing on strengths and unique needs, empowering clients to develop their own coping strategies.

Hi there! My name is Jaron Cotton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. While life is a blessing for us all, it can bring incredible challenges filled with stress that can seem impossible at times. My goal in therapy is understand your goals and work together to help you achieve them. True growth comes from challenging ourselves to process, reflect and adapt in a healthy way. Remember that asking for help and showing vulnerability is actually a sign of strength, never a weakness! I am available through telehealth only at this time, but may be accepting in-person clients in the future. Thank you!

Hi! I'm Janet, an LCSW with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults. I also have taught elementary education (Pre-K to Grade 8) in CT and NYC. My passion has always been working with children, adolescents and families. I also enjoy working with young adults and adults. In the past, I have worked in a domestic violence shelter and outreach center outside of Boston, the CT Birth to Three program, intensive in-home psychiatric programs, outpatient clinics and as a school clinician at a therapeutic high school. Additionally, I have experience working in the foster care systems in CT and NYC. I have weekday, weeknight and weekend availability to meet the needs of my clients' busy schedules. Follow my professional instagram @heart_mind_soul_connection Please note- I adhere to the Grow Therapy policy of a fee for cancellations with less than 24 hours notice and no show appointments.

My name is Olga and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of NJ, AZ and FL. I have a lot of experience working with a diverse population of clients with different diagnosis and in a variety of mental health settings including inpatient, outpatient, psychiatric hospitals, group homes, private in home therapy, schools and virtually (audio, audiovisual and livechat). I specialize in ERP for clients experiencing symptoms of OCD and HRT for clients experiencing BFRB's and tic disorders. I am eclectic in my approach to therapy and some of the alternate treatment modalities that I use include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused brief therapy, mindfulness based therapy, etc. I hope to build a strong and trusting relationship with all of my clients and I believe that therapy should be a safe and non-judgmental environment where client's can work toward their goals.

Hello! I’m Aida Valerio. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who found my calling 11 years ago having discovered that I wanted to provide people with a therapeutic space to heal, grow, and ultimately transform. Are you going through a personal challenge or major life transition? Do you need a safe space to have your experiences affirmed and validated? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions and in need of support? Have you considered speaking to someone but are unsure of how to begin? Wherever you are in your journey, I want to congratulate you on exploring possibilities to receive help. Therapy, like anything new or unknown, can feel scary. When Wendy was learning how to fly in Peter Pan, her fear of “what if I fall?” was met with Peter’s response of “oh, darling, what if you fly?” Not only did she fly, but she also transformed. My therapeutic approach is gentle, warm, and trauma-informed to ensure your comfort every step of the way. I listen attentively and non-judgmentally, welcoming your authentic self. You can express yourself in English and/or Spanish as I am fluent in both languages.

Soy terapeuta bilingüe con una formación ecléctica que combina lo psicodinámico, la terapia cognitivo-conductual (CBT) y un enfoque centrado en el trauma. Mi estilo es cercano, respetuoso y se adapta a las necesidades de cada persona. Creo en la importancia de ofrecer un espacio seguro, donde puedas explorar lo que estás viviendo con libertad, profundidad y sin juicio. Ofrezco terapia en español para quienes buscan expresarse en su lengua materna, entendiendo lo valioso que es poder hablar en nuestro primer idioma y sentirse comprendido en todos los niveles.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both CT and MA. I earned my Master's Degree at Central Connecticut State University and have been in practice for many years. I currently offer online telehealth therapy only. During our work together, we will focus on your strengths as part of the process of healing the pains of the past. I invite you to reach out, we can get started as soon as you are able.

I want to help you flourish! I truly believe that when individuals strive to be the best versions of themselves they can have a significant impact in the world. I want to help you be the best version of yourself so that you can live confidently and be able to succeed regardless of what life throws your way. I'm a Licensed Counselor in Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. I have been practicing as a therapist for more than 8 years and I love working with teenagers and adults of any age.

I am licensed in Connecticut with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I’m Penelope—a therapist who supports women and teens through life transitions, building healthy boundaries, and strengthening self-esteem. Outside of therapy, I love spending time outdoors, traveling, and being with my family, and I bring that same sense of curiosity and connection into my work. I believe you are the expert on yourself, and my role is to walk beside you as a guide while you uncover your own answers. Together, we’ll focus on empowerment, confidence, and creating more peace and clarity in your life.

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.

I’m Dr. Lexi, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a proud combat veteran who provides services to Nevada and Connecticut residents. I hold both a Master’s and a Doctoral degree in Social Work. I’ve dedicated my career to the field of social services and mental health, motivated by a genuine passion for helping others. My experience spans a range of settings, providing compassionate and effective support to individuals and families as they face various life challenges. In addition to my therapeutic work, I collaborate with businesses and business owners to promote mental health awareness in the workplace. My goal is to help create environments where well-being is priority. Choosing someone to open up to and embark on a mental health journey with is not easy. I understand the importance of finding the right support, and I strive to make this process as seamless and comfortable as possible. My approach is to meet you where you are, recognizing your unique experiences and challenges.

Hi, I’m Julie Sutton, LPC. I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance use, self-esteem concerns, social difficulties, and overall life functioning. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. I focus on helping you understand your thoughts and emotions, build practical coping skills, and strengthen your sense of self-worth. Together, we’ll work on identifying patterns that may be holding you back and developing strategies that help you feel more confident, balanced, and in control of your life. Whether you’re struggling with day-to-day stress, motivation, or navigating major life transitions, I aim to create a safe environment where you can explore, grow, and move toward your goals at a pace that feels right for you.

I'm a Hispanic, cisgender woman with lots of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, generational trauma, domestic violence, career changes, life transitions, relationship issues, religious trauma. I have been in the social work field for over 20 years. Being a Social Worker is a great passion of mine. My focus is to help you heal from past experiences, life events, present situations. I describe the therapeutic relationship as if I'm on the passenger seat helping you maneuver this road in life.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families foster healthier relationships with themselves and one another. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, focused on real-life growth. I utilize techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), and narrative therapy, all through a trauma-informed and culturally responsive lens. Clients describe my sessions as a safe space where they can fully engage, feel understood, and initiate meaningful change that resonates with their true selves.

I bring experience supporting families, adolescents, young adults, and women through a wide range of challenges. I provide mental health support to teenagers and young adults, addressing diverse issues with compassion and understanding. My work includes providing compassionate care to survivors of domestic violence, as well as supporting individuals and families navigating infertility and NICU journeys—experiences that I understand both professionally and personally. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have extensive experience helping clients process and heal from trauma in a safe, grounded, and empowering environment. As a faith-based clinician, I am also able to integrate spiritual perspectives into therapy for clients who desire it, creating a holistic and personalized approach to healing. My goal is to offer a welcoming, empathetic space where you feel heard, supported, and equipped to move forward with strength and clarity.

I believe that every person on this earth has the ability and the right to find peace and happiness in their lives. As a therapist for 17 years, I have helped many individuals find that so that they are able to live a happy, peaceful life. I use a very holistic approach to therapy treating each client as a whole not just the psychological issues.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker specializing in anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. With four years of experience as a medical social worker, I take a warm yet direct approach, using cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths-based practices to help clients make practical and meaningful changes. I have a particular passion for supporting older adults and anyone navigating major life transitions.

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.

Greetings! I've been working professionally for 8 years now with teenage adolescent clients and their families. I view the work I do as both my passion and purpose. It is a gift to be welcomed into my clients' lives to help support them during this wild time of transition, identity, and struggle. I'm looking forward to meeting and working with you. I received my degree from Colombia University and started my career in New York City working with Child Protective Services as a MDFT therapist. I then transitioned to helping create and establish a school based mental health clinic within the Murry Bergtraum High School Campus, servicing four high schools. Since moving to Connecticut, I've continued to work in the high school setting as a school based social worker. Together, we work on a variety of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, BPD, Autism, etc.

I'm a Licensed clinical social Worker passionate about helping others become the best versions of themselves in order to live their best lives. I believe an essential feature of therapy is that I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment in which you can begin to heal and thrive. I strive to help you identify your strengths and positive traits to assist in building confidence and self-esteem. I have had the privilege to work with a diverse population including children, families, couples and individuals. I have experience working with clients in different capacities such as behavioral issues amongst children, teen substance and alcohol use, family struggles, couple counseling as well as individual counseling. I believe no two people are just alike. As a result, I take a flexible and ever changing approach to helping clients.

As an empathetic therapist, I understand and share in my clients' emotions, creating a safe space for them to express their feelings openly and honestly. My compassionate approach ensures that I not only empathize with my clients' struggles but also provide them with the support and encouragement they need to navigate their challenges with resilience and strength. Through insightful conversations, I help my clients gain new perspectives and self-awareness, guiding them toward a deeper understanding of their thoughts and behaviors.

My name is Wendy, and I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience. I believe that the therapeutic relationship should be rooted in respect, compassion, and genuine understanding. My approach combines evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, and Solution-Focused Therapy. These goal-oriented strategies empower you to tap into your own strengths and create meaningful, lasting change—often allowing you to see progress sooner than expected. I work with adults, adolescents, and children, and I am committed to meeting you where you are. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, or communication issues, I’ll be here to support and guide you every step of the way. I’m glad you’ve taken this important step toward change. When you’re ready, I’m here to help you move forward on your path to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Hello, My name is Kimberly. I am a heart-centered therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients to find balance and purpose in their lives. When we open ourselves to the question of "What would love have me do for myself and others?" we begin healing our hearts. When we heal our hearts, we clear out the darkness caused by trauma, limited beliefs, circumstances of birth and the stressors of post-modern living. If given the opportunity, I'd like to be a guide on your journey. As a teaching counselor, I've worked in a variety of settings ranging from community mental health, residential settings, agencies, schools, refugee camps and private practice. I have 12 years of experience counseling teens and adults who are struggling with trauma, OCD, depression, anxiety, codependency, women’s issues, domestic violence, and more. I am also fluent in Spanish. I utilize EMDR, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, CBT, IFS and holistic practices to create a unique healing experience for you. If you feel drawn to who I am and what I do, please reach out and contact me.

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.

As a Marriage and Family Therapist I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for my clients to engage in the therapeutic process. I work to ensure your concerns are heard and will empower you as we navigate your challenges and work to strengthen your most meaningful relationships. Together we will assess what is contributing to your problems and develop healthy strategies for you to manage them and reach your goals.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I use dogs in my office while doing therapy. Please schedule telehealth or advise in advance if you are not comfortable in an office with animals. They do provide therapeutic support to clients and have been part of my practice for some time. I hold licenses in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida and specialty certification as a Certified Advanced Drug & Alcohol Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I am a firm believer in everything that happens creates the person. I am a whole life counselor and work with people to explore what it would take to move past the difficult times in life. I take the time to get to know my clients and have many clients who have been with me for years. That doesn't mean someone will see me every week for the rest of their life. It means client know I am available when they have need. I do have clients who have seen me weekly for years not because they are dependent on me but because they have found benefit in processing their life regularly. I have had a successful personal practice for years and can offer clients the space and reverence to unpack the most unpleasant things to reorder them in a way they no longer can cause harm as they once did. There is no perfect childhood and it is likely families do the best they can and it may not have filled the needs of their child. I am happy to take as much time as needed to work through the problem as you understand it.

After losing my mother at the age of 19, I felt the need to go down a more meaningful path that involved helping others. My journey into mental health care began with a deep-seated passion for helping others. After earning my degree in counseling, I dedicated myself to gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to support individuals in overcoming their challenges and achieving their personal goals.

Hello I'm Ivelisse I am a LMHC and Qualified Supervisor for the state of Florida, Licensed in South Carolina, Vermont and Connecticut. Specializing in child, adolescent and young adult and women counseling. If you are a parent, care giver or guardian and have a child struggling with recent behaviors in school, home or community settings, you have come to the right profile. I work from the approach of being client-centered and trauma informed care. Adjusting to life changes and anxieties can be challenging and having a safe place to process and navigate the journey of healing and empowerment is essential. Behaviors, family stressors and trauma can affect the family unit. My specialty is working with children, families and young adults between ages 5-25 years old healing from trauma, managing anger, anxiety, depression and more. Together we can develop healthy coping strategies and use a complete self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and creative expressions to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself, child and/or family. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the challenges and habits that's holding you back. Let's work together! I look forward to hearing from you.

When counseling, I look at the whole person not just the current situation. I take time to get to know you and understand your situation and/or concerns. I treat all my clients with the utmost respect and compassion. I use motivational skills to help my patients see their strengths and help them create achievable goals. I believe in breaking the big goal into smaller goals that lead to meeting that larger goal. I believe this creates positive reinforcement for my clients and improves their emotional health, during what could be a difficult time in their life. I look forward to helping you improve your mental health, one step at a time. I have 8 years of experience working with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addictions and co-occurring.

I currently work with clients 15 and up who are experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulty leaving a relationship, and/or have experienced trauma. Clients who are experiencing life circumstances such as grief, divorce, personal change, or growth. I empower my clients to become the best versions of themselves through our work together. Whether the client wants to explore past traumas or just vent about day to day stressors I am here to create a safe space.

Welcome! I’m Elyse, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with ten years of clinical experience, licensed in California, Connecticut, and New Hampshire. I specialize in supporting women, mothers, children, and teens through anxiety, behavioral concerns, and life transitions. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to ensure each client receives practical, effective tools for daily life. My work is collaborative and goal-oriented—I partner with every client to help them move toward meaningful, lasting change.

Frankie Esposito is a licensed marriage and family therapist. Frankie has experience treating depression, anxiety and OCD, among other diagnoses in individuals, couples, and families. Frankie specializes in treating OCD with the use of Exposure Response Prevention. Frankie’s therapeutic space allows everyone to feel seen, heard, and validated. She believes her role as a therapist is to meet clients where they are and provide guidance.

I bring something to individual and couples therapy that is rare today and not from a text book, that is lived experience. In drawing from different evidence based schools of thought in combination with my lived experiences we will employ such modalities of therapy such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. Adversity and struggle are situations that are common. The goal to avoid both would be ideal but that is not reality. Peace and calmness in the mist of adversity and struggle is a possible reality and what we will strive to help you achieve.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and obtained my Masters degree in Social Work and a Bachelors degree in Psychology from Southern CT State University. With almost 10 years experience providing psychotherapy and have had the pleasure of working together with all age groups from varying backgrounds including individuals, couples and families, helping them reach their goals. I am also a graduate of the accredited Training for Adoption Competency (TAC) from the Center for Adoption Support and Education (C.A.S.E.). With this training, I have been afforded the knowledge to help children, adults and families who have been impacted by foster care and adoption. My goal is your goal. My mission is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space which allows the client to express oneself freely. I am a passionate, dedicated clinician who believes that with patience, empathy, and a healthy therapeutic relationship, one can learn the tools to implement change and have a more fulfilling and rewarding life. I utilizes strength-based approaches as well as person-centered strategies, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Solution focused brief therapy and Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). I am committed to working with you side-by-side on your journey through life.

I became a therapist because I struggled with my own anxiety as a teenager and I wanted to understand what was happening and learn to use this experience to help others. I know how difficult life can feel to face the world with an anxious brain. My aim is to make you feel comfortable and bring a sense of humor to our sessions. I believe that we all have the ability to get better even when we feel like we are stuck.

I have over 23 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of Substance Abuse Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Behavioral difficulties and emotional regulation. I am trained in a variety of different models including CBT//DBT /CPT Person Centered Approaches, Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Tf-CBT. I work with clients of all ages, as well as professional adults and military service members. I enjoy thinking "outside of the box", and implement that in my sessions. I enjoy thinking of creative approaches and utilizing a variety of different skills to help my clients. My goal is to assist the client, you, in developing healthy coping skills, while building a strong therapeutic relationship. I have worked with people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, male, female, non-binary, various sexual orientations, young and old, and I have always taken the approach that each person is unique; their issues are real, and I want to not only help them, but truly hear them and their stories.

Therapy I feel is a chance to learn and shift patterns in our lives. Relationships are a key part of life but are difficult on many levels and we learn the way that we communicate with other from our experience. Learning and understanding that experience can help us make the changes that we would like to see in life. I believe in having an open space free from judgement were people can explore who they are and learn how to use that to change their lives and their relationships with others. I work with people from all different perspectives and believe that we are the products of our experience and that we can find ways to change the patterns that are not helpful for us. Communication is key in relationships but it is something that we have trouble with but are not always aware of the impact. Learning patterns, identifying the meaning that we put to our experiences and seeing our strengths are ways that allow us to become the person that we want to be without losing who we are.

Are you a teen, college-aged student, or young adult feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like yourself lately? Are you a parent looking for compassionate, effective support for your young child? As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), and Ph.D. psychologist with specialized training from the University of Connecticut, I help people navigate anxiety, stress, and life transitions with clarity and confidence. Together, we will build practical, skills-based tools tailored to your unique needs so you can feel more grounded, capable, and in control. In our work, you can expect a warm, nonjudgmental space where you are heard, understood, and supported. My passion is helping clients uncover their inner strengths, improve coping skills, and create lasting change that supports emotional well-being and resilience. If you are ready to take the next step toward a calmer, more fulfilling life—for yourself or your child—I am here to help you get started. Follow my professional Instagram @hellodrnilani **Please note: I adhere to the Grow Therapy policy of a fee for cancellations with less than 24 hours notice and no show appointments.

Hello! I am a Licensed Counselor based in Connecticut, holding a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Saint Joseph. I have been practicing for 7 years, specializing in helping children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I am trained to guide you through your challenges to manage stress and help you reach your goals. I am patient, empathetic, and work with you at your own pace, always respecting your unique needs and experiences. I pride myself on my ability to stay professional, maintain confidentiality, and continuously learn to provide the best care possible.

Greetings! Are you feeling overwhelmed by day- to day issues? Are you struggling in your relationships, or having difficulties communicating with others? Do you just need a safe space to vent? These are all normal daily occurrences. This may be where you'll begin in therapy. However, the goal is to increase coping skills and decrease adverse symptoms as time progresses. My goal is to connect with you and truly understand your needs and goals. Expect an environment free of judgment where you can speak freely and show up as your authentic self. My approach is person-centered while utilizing appropriate evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I help support young adults, individuals, and couples that may be dealing with a range of challenges in their lives related to trauma, anxiety, and depression. Let's work together to identify solutions that can improve functioning and increase life satisfaction.

I believe that therapy can be a tool for introspection to support growth, healing, or problem-solving. As your therapist, I aim to create an open, safe, and supportive environment that will allow you to feel seen and heard. Every individual has their own unique life experiences so there is no room for a one-size-fits-all attitude. Whether you are seeking answers or relief, we will work to restore what is needed in your life. I provide a free 15 minute consultation to help make an introduction and determine if I am a good fit for your needs.