Find a Therapist in Essex, CT

Maria Aresco, LCSW, is a dedicated therapist committed to creating hope and connection for individuals of all ages. With an understanding that seeking help can often feel like a daunting task, she strives to make this journey beneficial and rewarding for each client and their families. In her practice, clients are welcomed into a space characterized by unconditional acceptance and advocacy, guiding them toward health and wholeness. With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and licensing in both CT and FL, Maria is also a Registered Play Therapist. Her therapeutic approach features a warm and comfortable atmosphere, fostering a sense of connection and understanding. Maria sees the therapeutic relationship as an essential tool for clients to deepen their treatment, and she is dedicated to assisting them and their families in reshaping their perspectives on life’s challenges, promoting effective coping strategies that can support them now and in the future. Specializing in issues such as anxiety, trauma, peer relationships, and life transitions, she employs a range of modalities including Expressive Arts, Positive Psychology, Play Therapy, and more, ensuring a holistic and eclectic approach tailored to meet diverse needs.

Michael Barrios, PhD, embodies the belief that living life with courage, insight, and vitality is both essential and challenging. He understands that relationships can often be difficult, disappointing, or elusive, and that families and careers may demand more than one has to give. Life transitions and losses can lead to anxiety, depression, and self-doubt, creating low motivation amidst stress. Michael's mission is to help individuals develop a nuanced understanding of their circumstances, fostering awareness of their complex emotional patterns while promoting a sense of responsibility and freedom to move forward. He employs a blend of insight-oriented and cognitive behavioral therapies in his practice. Moreover, he specializes in working with couples facing interpersonal challenges. With nearly 30 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and elders, Michael has a rich background, having trained in the Department of Psychology at Yale University and the Yale Psychiatric Institute. Currently serving as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Yale Department of Psychiatry, he was honored with a Distinguished Faculty Award in 2015 for his exemplary supervisory work.

Diane Brouder is a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) who understands that many individuals experience anxiety, sadness, panic, or worry in response to life's stresses. She invites those who are facing such challenges to explore their coping mechanisms and consider the changes they desire. Therapy, for her, is a deeply personal journey, and she strives to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients can feel supported as they move forward. With a keen understanding of human nature and stress responses, Diane guides her clients in designing a meaningful path toward balance, joy, and greater peace. By utilizing mindfulness-based skills and evidence-backed strategies, she helps individuals develop healthy boundaries and effective coping techniques, enabling them to live more intentionally. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, or life transitions, Diane is committed to fostering a space for growth and healing.

Donna Gundy, LMFT, MEd, is a compassionate Marriage & Family Therapist dedicated to supporting those facing relationship challenges. She specializes in marital and premarital therapy, helping couples navigate issues such as communication, intimacy, and fidelity. Donna understands the complexities of emotions related to substance abuse, depression, and anxiety, guiding individuals at crossroads in their lives towards greater satisfaction and well-being through insightful therapeutic sessions. In addition to her private practice, Donna teaches family systems therapy in a postgraduate training forum and serves as a certified supervisor for emerging therapists. With her emphasis on the interconnectedness of individuals within their family and social systems, she continually facilitates growth and healing for her clients.

Nancy Diane Varga is a compassionate licensed clinical social worker whose dedication lies in assisting individuals facing significant life challenges. With a profound specialization in navigating the emotional complexities of oncology diagnoses and the experiences of palliative care caregivers, she is also adept in addressing chronic illness, grief, and loss. Her extensive experience as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor enables her to provide comprehensive chemical dependence treatment. Through her warm, person-centered approach, Nancy empowers clients, fostering resilience and coping skills while navigating life's transitions.

Corinne Ferola is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, possessing an LCSW credential. With a strong educational foundation from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work, she specializes in helping adults navigate challenges relating to depression, addiction, and relationship issues. Corinne is well-versed in addressing a wide range of concerns, including bipolar disorder, substance use, anxiety, and mood disorders, making her a versatile choice for individuals seeking support. She employs an array of therapeutic modalities, such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients. Her approach is not only culturally sensitive but also emphasizes empathy and understanding, allowing clients to feel seen and heard. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, Corinne is committed to guiding her clients toward healing and personal growth, equipping them with the coping skills necessary to thrive.

Samantha Friedrich steinmacher is a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, who understands that during difficult times, individuals can feel overwhelmed and stuck. She recognizes how challenging it can be to break free from ineffective or destructive cycles. Samantha focuses on helping clients get 'unstuck' by integrating new skills and concepts into their lives, such as psychological flexibility, self-awareness, assertive communication, and mindfulness. Her practice is centered on assisting adults and elders in creating full, rich, and meaningful lives. She provides an open, welcoming, and judgment-free space where clients can collaborate with her to foster positive changes. Utilizing evidence-based practices, Samantha effectively guides clients through challenging life transitions and obstacles, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship conflicts. Understanding that every individual is unique, she employs an integrative therapeutic approach tailored to each person's specific needs, values, and goals, ensuring that her support resonates with their personal experiences.

Kamilla Gardner is a Marriage and Family Therapist trained both in Germany and the United States, allowing her to draw from a rich blend of academic and cultural traditions. With a deep understanding of various psychological approaches including Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and Solution-Focused therapy, she recognizes that our emotional lives are a powerful and resilient force guiding us toward new beginnings. Although changes in life can sometimes feel overwhelming, Kamilla believes in the importance of reaching out for support and guidance during these times. Her goal is to help clients overcome challenges such as anxiety and relationship issues, exploring pathways to healing and personal growth. She approaches all clients with professionalism and integrity, ensuring that every personal matter is handled with care and respect.

Dr. Karen Goldfinger, a licensed psychologist with a PhD, is a seasoned therapist who specializes in helping adults navigate a range of challenges related to ADHD, relationship issues, and depression. With a background from the State University of New York at Albany, where she graduated in 1987, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Dr. Goldfinger effectively collaborates with individuals and couples, guiding them to discover their unique strengths and address the obstacles in their lives. She is particularly skilled in resolving conflicts and enhancing self-awareness, enabling clients to build confidence and coping skills in the face of emotional disturbances, anxiety, and family conflicts. Utilizing various therapeutic modalities, including the Gottman Method and strength-based approaches, Dr. Goldfinger is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for her clients. She recognizes that each individual’s journey is unique and is committed to understanding their specific needs, offering insightful discussions about their difficulties and potential pathways for resolution. For those who may not find her to be the right fit, she aims to provide referrals to other professionals who can assist them effectively.

Michelle Kenefick, LCSW, brings over 30 years of experience as a Clinical Social Worker, working with children, families, and adults across diverse settings. She has developed a robust expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, particularly in supporting trauma survivors and those facing vicarious traumatization. Michelle's therapeutic approach is integrative and holistic, utilizing a combination of evidence-based models and various psycho-therapeutic methods to craft personalized treatment plans. Techniques such as Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Humanistic Psychology, Buddhist Psychology, and Mindfulness training are all part of her toolkit. Guiding her practice is a belief in the inherent resources within each individual for healing, recognizing that a core purity persists even amid painful experiences. Michelle offers counseling services for individuals, couples, and families, alongside group classes in mindfulness, workshops, and training sessions for professionals in human services, law enforcement, and healthcare. She also provides consultative training for organizations and unique retreat experiences for both professional and family caregivers.

Julia Israelski, LCSW, PMH-C, is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist who connects authentically with individuals across the lifespan, from teens to elders. With extensive experience in addressing trauma and PTSD, eating disorders, and pregnancy-related challenges, Julia approaches each client with empathy and understanding. She utilizes a variety of evidence-based therapies, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), ensuring a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each person’s unique needs. Julia's commitment to trauma-informed care and her compassionate demeanor allow her to create a safe, supportive environment, enabling clients to navigate their personal struggles and foster lasting resilience. Whether working with individuals or families, Julia is passionate about empowering her clients and fostering emotional healing.

Mary Mcgannon-Kollman is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges. With a Master's degree in Education and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Mary provides a wealth of knowledge and expertise. In her Essex office, she supports clients facing various transitions, which may include expected milestones like going off to school, forming new relationships, embracing retirement, and coping with the aging process. She also assists those managing unexpected changes such as job loss, serious health diagnoses, or divorce. Through a collaborative partnership, Mary works with clients to identify their strengths and goals, fostering new insights and equipping them with coping skills that lead to greater clarity and positive personal growth. Her therapeutic modalities include Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ensuring a holistic approach to mental health care for individuals of all ages.

Coyote Moon, the holistic metaphysician with a PhD, understands that many individuals experience feelings of being lost, anxious, or stuck in repetitive patterns. He recognizes that these challenges often stem from limiting belief systems shaped by fears and experiences of injustice. Coyote invites individuals to embark on a journey of growth, health, and fulfillment, helping them to uncover their higher purpose and true potential. With a highly supportive, inspiring, and motivating style, he empowers clients to release perceived limitations, ignite passion, and heal old wounds. Coyote is dedicated to guiding individuals in recognizing their heart's desires, setting achievable goals, and discerning their unique paths toward balanced healing and success. His approach combines mind, body, spirit, and emotional healing, emphasizing the importance of self-kindness and trusting one's intuition. Clients often share how integrating their spiritual spark into counseling profoundly enhances their ability to trust their truth and reveal their authentic selves. Coyote invites everyone to explore and heal as they take the step towards a more euphoric life.