OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions Therapists in Connecticut

I am a licenses mental health therapist (LMHC). I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New Haven (UNH) and a master’s degree in mental health counseling from Mercy College. I have been a therapist for the past ten years and in private practice for the past four years. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss. I serve medically complex patients.

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.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in Connecticut for the past 5 years. I work with my clients to help identify the cause of issues they may be experiencing, and help guide them through the process of addressing those issues. The most important aspect of therapy is that it is client-led. Everyone's needs and desires are different, and working out what a person is looking to gain from their therapy is the foundation for change. Once we have established that together, the path ahead can look different for each person. Some benefit from highly structured sessions centered around teaching tangible skills, others benefit from more loosely organized talk therapy. Either way, it is important to establish a treatment plan with goals early on, and work together to reach them.

Have you ever felt misunderstood by family and friends? Find it difficult to trust others including professionals? Have difficulty being seen as a person and not your condition? Do you feel alone? Do you struggle with adapting and accepting your chronic illness or chronic pain? Let's talk! I can help you build tools to gain strength and confidence in managing your personal challenges. I empower adults with chronic illness/ pain or a history of abuse to take back their control and create healthy supports in order to stay on a path towards healing. Our experiences with our body or from how others treat us create unhealthy pathways for self regulation often exhibited as anger or anxiety. The compassion and guidance I provide will rewire those pathways allowing you to be the best version of yourself. In our sessions together, we will work on making small manageable changes through mindfulness, changing behaviors and embracing a positive healthy mindset. It’s often scary to start therapy for the first time or even to go back to therapy but it is the best self care gift you can give to yourself.

I have been a licensed clinical psychologist and therapist for more than 30 years . If you are experiencing anxiety, family issues, depression, chronic stress , trauma, career indecision or problems with relationships , I always make an effort to truly understand your feelings and problems, and work together with you to resolve them In addition to my years of clinical experience, I have taught psychology at the undergraduate and graduate level over 60 years at several universities in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut . Thus, I also bring to you a strong academic and scientific background to help you you can advance your quest for a more fulfilling and happier life.

Hi there, I'm Jenni! Feeling stuck and frustrated? Struggling to deal with the loss of a loved one? Trying to find balance in your life while coping with chronic illness? Expecting an upcoming change? Not able to sleep or stay on top of things in your life? I am here to help! Therapy cannot be effective if we are not meeting your specific needs and goals. I want to meet you where you are and together identify a path forward. I like to understand you, your values, and your background while also giving you solution-focused interventions you can utilize to make changes. If talking it through without homework is the way you want to go, that is fine too! We are all capable of change and moving forward but sometimes it is the dialogues in our head, relationships, or other factors that are getting in our way. Therapy is a great place to work through those and be more connected with what you value in your life. Let's work together!

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 a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) from Connecticut. I received my Master's Degree from New York University (NYU) with a focus on Counseling for Mental Health & Wellness and a research interest in spirituality and trauma. I have worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for the past 8 years. I help survivors of trauma to thrive and create a new future based on inner strengths. I utilize an integrative, eclectic approach to therapy.

Hi. I am Denise DeBrady, LCSW. I graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Master's degree in Social Work. I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work with clients of all ages, and using a warm, safe environment, assist my clients to identify their strengths, goals, and abilities to cope with and overcome their symptoms and discomforts.

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 Professional Counselor for AR, OK and CT; and LPC Supervisor for OK. I am Certified in Domestic violence and Sexual Assault, with a significant history working with victims/perpetrators; prior Certifications in Sex/Pornography Addiction, as well as Sex Offender Treatment. I am trained, and hold prior certification in Child Forensic Interviewing; and prior work with law enforcement conducting forensic interviews of potential child abuse victims. I am trained in EMDR therapy. I also hold a prior certification in Divorce/Family Court Mediation. I also have a significant history or providing Substance Abuse treatment for adults and adolescents. I provide psychotherapy for individuals, families and groups who are dealing with many mental health concerns including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and loss, parenting training/education, offender treatment, geriatrics, behavioral issues, etc. I am a Non-Denominational Ordained Minister and provide Christian counseling. I would enjoy an opportunity to walk beside you and assist you on your journey to healing!

Seeking strength, understanding, and a path forward? I'm not your typical therapist. I've walked the walk that you have, not just once, but twice. As a former Marine and law enforcement officer, I know firsthand the pressures, traumas, and unique challenges faced by those in service and beyond. Now, I leverage my experience and clinical expertise to guide individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and the invisible wounds of trauma.

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.

I provide compassionate and person-centered mental health care. I have worked as a therapist for seventeen years in a variety of settings. I have worked as a therapist for outpatient mental health clinics in both New York and Connecticut, served as a clinician for a psychiatric rehabilitation center, and a clinician for the NYS court system. I served as a field instructor for Quinnipiac University, and I am passionate about my chosen vocation as a clinical social worker. I am currently a crisis clinician/mental health first responder and serve as a therapist in private practice. My expertise is in the field of CBT. In addition, I am formally trained and hold a degree in Philosophy and Religious Studies, which enables me to provide counseling from a Christian lens. I am also in the process of completing formal training in EMDR and have completed some clinical consultation hours already in EMDR. If you want a strong therapist in your corner- a therapist with nearly two decades of diverse clinical experience with advanced clinical practice wisdom, then I may be the right therapist for you.

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 a licensed Psychologist in CT and FL dedicated to helping you find a way to manage your symptoms and effectively negotiate the complexities of how you relate within yourself and to the world around you. I received my PH.D. in Clinical Psychology from PGSP (Palo Alto University). My APA internship was at the State of CT DMHAS River Valley Services, with rotations at CT Valley Hospital. I completed my post-doc at the UCONN Dept. of Psychology, Research Division. My career was spent working in skilled nursing and military settings.

Hello There ! My name is Tanya Edwards. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have accumulated over 15 years of clinical experiences with diverse populations. My practice focus areas include issues attached to depression, grief, distorted self-image, career challenges, parental caregiving, friendship transitions, and entering new life stages. My practice is geared towards empowerment for growth, sustainment, and more growth!

My Name is Leslie. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor in the state of Connecticut. I have worked in various clinical settings including but not limited to in-home, community, private practice and outpatient settings. As a Counselor, I have several years of experience providing counseling services to individuals with varying ages and diagnoses. Currently, I mainly specialize in Trauma processing, Racial Identity issues, Anxiety, Stress Management, Low self-esteem, and Relationship concerns. I would describe my practice as one that is built upon the belief that people begin to heal at the moment, they feel heard. I would be remised if I did not mention that my personal history has cemented this belief and led me on my own journey toward healing. Which has placed me in this position to help others on their journey. I believe my ability to connect with clients is universal.

Hello, my name is Tess. I am a licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Connecticut. I am employed at a facility that treats mental health and substance use. I have 4 years of experience as a therapist that could assist with issues such as anxiety, anger, and life transition concerns. Whether you are looking for help regulating emotions, navigating a transition in your life, overcoming substance use, or looking for spiritual/personal growth, I can walk with you through your journey. I have years of experience working with individuals, helping them find strategies and techniques that work best for them and their situation, at their current stage of life.

Hello! I’m Aida Valerio-Lerner. 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. Together, we can overcome anything.

I help professionals in recovery who are carrying more than anyone realizes. Many of my clients are high-achieving people who have spent years holding everything together on the outside while privately struggling with alcohol, substances, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, or burnout. They’re people who have been depended on—at home, at work, and in their families—and they’re tired of performing, hiding, or white-knuckling their way through life. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience in addiction recovery, trauma, and life transitions, I bring a grounded, practical, and compassionate approach. My work is deeply influenced by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), values-based living, and helping clients build a life that feels aligned rather than pressured or chaotic. I understand that asking for help—especially as a professional—comes with unique challenges: reputation concerns, workplace stress, perfectionism, shame, fear of consequences, and relationships strained by years of coping alone. My role is not to judge or lecture, but to offer a private, steady space where you can talk openly, regain clarity, and take meaningful steps toward a healthier, more peaceful life. Whether you’re navigating early sobriety, long-term recovery, career demands, relationship stress, or a sense that you’ve lost yourself, I’m here to walk with you—not as an authority figure, but as someone who respects the courage it takes to show up. If you’re ready for therapy that’s confidential, respectful, and tailored to the realities of being a professional in recovery, I’d be honored to support you.

My name is Sergena and I'm so grateful to be part of your healing journey. In my work as a social worker, I have traveled all over the United States providing services to individuals and systems in need. My therapeutic style is largely eclectic, meaning I use different styles depending on who my client is and what their concerns are. I am trained in TF-CBT, ACT, CBT, and am presently studying Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. My primary focus is trauma, though I also work closely with those with co-occuring substance use disorders and mood disorders.

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’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 4 years of licensed experience and 9 years in the mental health field. I work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and life transitions. My approach is client-centered, compassionate, and collaborative. I use strengths-based, solution-focused, and CBT techniques to support healing and growth. I believe each person has untapped resilience, and I aim to help clients recognize and build on the strengths they already hold. I strive to create a safe, affirming space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered. Therapy with me is a partnership, and I’ll meet you where you are—helping you move forward at your own pace with support and care.

Hi i am a licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Connecticut. I received my masters from Fordham University in 2009, receiving my clinical license in 2012. I have been providing clinical services for 10 years. Working with a wide range of people from different backgrounds, economic status and age. Young adult through older life has been the primary for the last few years. I have guided through life transitions, crisis, grief, loss.