Branford, CT Local Support & Community Resources

David Abrams, PsyD, is a compassionate psychologist who specializes in assisting children and teenagers facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues. With over twenty-five years of dedicated experience, he focuses on providing a supportive environment that fosters understanding and growth. David values collaboration with parents, ensuring they feel heard and empowered throughout the therapy process. His direct yet caring approach has made him a trusted advocate for the services that children need to thrive. David employs various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused techniques, tailoring his methods to meet the unique needs of each child and family. His extensive qualifications and empathetic nature make him a valuable resource for both youth and parents navigating the complexities of mental health.

In Lori Arens’s therapeutic practice, clients instantly feel safe, comfortable, calm, and secure. As a licensed clinical social worker, Lori dedicates herself to assisting individuals—whether preteens, teens, or adults—in navigating environmental stressors while fostering strength and success. She believes everyone deserves to take pride in themselves and have control over their lives. With a focus on personal strengths and evidence-based practices, Lori collaborates with clients to discover the best methods for regaining their confidence and joy in life. She has substantial experience as a clinician at the Yale University School of Medicine, where she provided in-home child and family therapy, and has also held supervisory roles at Wellmore Behavioral Health. Throughout her career, she has dealt with various issues such as mood disorders, grief, and the challenges of life transitions. Lori employs a rich array of therapeutic modalities, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and more, tailored to individual and family needs. Her cozy office, nestled at the picturesque tip of Lake Saltonstall, serves as a peaceful environment for clients to envision a new, empowered future. Start your journey of authentic self-discovery—mind, heart, and spirit—with Lori's compassionate guidance.

Benjamin Backes is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and therapist, specializing in addiction and substance abuse. He understands that substance use often leads to chaos, unpredictability, and confusion—not only for individuals, but also for their families and loved ones. Emotions such as fear, anger, and confusion can overwhelm everyone involved, making the path to healing seem daunting. With extensive experience in diverse substance abuse treatment settings, he has dedicated his career to helping individuals and their families navigate these challenges. Currently serving as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor at two high schools in Connecticut, Benjamin also runs a private practice where he emphasizes the importance of building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. His approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each person, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zone to discover growth and healing. Benjamin is deeply committed to guiding individuals and their families on their journey toward self-betterment. While he offers his services, he has built meaningful connections with numerous treatment providers, ensuring that everyone can access the appropriate level of care needed for their journey.