Bristol, CT Local Support & Community Resources

Within Reach, also known as Eric Brysgel, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Smith College. He has completed a rigorous graduate-level internship and psychiatric training at Yale Psychiatric Institute and obtained his License in Clinical Social Work through clinical supervision at the Institute of Living. With extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and elders in various psychiatric settings—including inpatient, partial hospital programs, outpatient services, and mobile crisis teams—Eric has dedicated his career to mental health. Notably, he played a vital role in the formation and development of the Schizophrenia Rehabilitation Center at the Institute of Living. Over the past fourteen years, he has been a crucial part of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Young Adult Services program and has served as a full-time program supervisor at Creative Potential in Montville, Connecticut, where he collaborates with the Department of Children and Families and Beacon Health Options. Eric believes that optimal clinical care happens when clients engage with their entire support system. He is well-versed in various therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and has received specialized training in ego psychology, object relations, and self psychology.

Kelly Badyrka, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), understands the complexities of life's challenges. She recognizes that many individuals may feel out of control in their lives and highlights the importance of finding a safe space where one can openly share their feelings without fear of judgment. With her approachable demeanor, Kelly aims to alleviate the initial anxiety of reaching out for help. Her practice focuses on helping individuals navigate struggles related to addiction, anxiety, and mood disorders, along with supporting those facing challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period as she is PSI trained. Kelly's compassionate, trauma-informed approach is solution-focused, allowing her to tailor sessions uniquely to each client. She believes that each person is the expert on their own life and is dedicated to helping them rediscover their inner strength and rebuild self-esteem. By blending various therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acceptance commitment strategies, Kelly creates an environment conducive to personal growth and healing. She is eager to guide individuals through their journeys and is committed to fostering meaningful connections with her clients.

Kelli Bastiaanse is a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides individualized counseling tailored to the needs of both adolescents and adults. With significant experience in trauma recovery, Kelli specializes in helping clients who have experienced trauma in their lives. Her focus is on developing positive and rewarding relationships, emphasizing the importance of a genuine, caring presence in the therapeutic relationship. Kelli values mindfulness and flexibility, striving to help her clients achieve balance in their lives. She enjoys outdoor activities with her family and practices Yoga, infusing mindfulness techniques into her counseling sessions. Trained in various therapeutic approaches, Kelli predominantly utilizes person-centered and solution-focused interventions to facilitate positive transformations in her clients' lives.