Buddhist Therapists in Connecticut
![Photo of Zerach Wieder, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d59c9cb-f423-433c-a497-89f4eaae142c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling unsettled in your relationships? Are you and your partner trying to understand your patterns and find new ways of relating? Are you personally feeling stuck in shame or wanting to experience more pleasure? With a Somatically & Buddhist Psychology inspired orientation - and a healthy dose of humor - my commitment is to help you move towards more confidence, fulfillment, and empowerment. I offer compassionate, empathetic, complex-trauma informed individual, couples, & group counseling.
Are you feeling unsettled in your relationships? Are you and your partner trying to understand your patterns and find new ways of relating? Are you personally feeling stuck in shame or wanting to experience more pleasure? With a Somatically & Buddhist Psychology inspired orientation - and a healthy dose of humor - my commitment is to help you move towards more confidence, fulfillment, and empowerment. I offer compassionate, empathetic, complex-trauma informed individual, couples, & group counseling.
![Photo of Rosemary O'Connor, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2fc5060-1736-476a-b878-c50bfd5f004f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Using Mindfulness/ CBT, Buddhist Psychology, EMDR and trauma-informed care, and neuroscience, my hope is to support you on your evolving path, illuminating any stuck places and points of tenderness, and helping you learn how to be with them with care, reverence, and insight so that they might be more bearable, soften, and transform to love.
Experiences of overwhelm, hardship, and imperfections are inevitable aspects of life, and too, they have beautiful qualities. They create atmospheres to understand imbalances and what is essential more deeply, both in ourselves and all those around us. When viewed as entry points to insight and peace, we can begin to feel some relief and sense of possibility. Rather than hindrances, we begin to see stepping stones on a path to greater awareness, healing, stability of mind amidst changing life conditions, compassion for our suffering and that of others, and joy.
Using Mindfulness/ CBT, Buddhist Psychology, EMDR and trauma-informed care, and neuroscience, my hope is to support you on your evolving path, illuminating any stuck places and points of tenderness, and helping you learn how to be with them with care, reverence, and insight so that they might be more bearable, soften, and transform to love.
Experiences of overwhelm, hardship, and imperfections are inevitable aspects of life, and too, they have beautiful qualities. They create atmospheres to understand imbalances and what is essential more deeply, both in ourselves and all those around us. When viewed as entry points to insight and peace, we can begin to feel some relief and sense of possibility. Rather than hindrances, we begin to see stepping stones on a path to greater awareness, healing, stability of mind amidst changing life conditions, compassion for our suffering and that of others, and joy.
![Photo of Cormac Ryder, MDiv, BCC, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6608d70-2bb0-4cfd-829f-9768f7a728ba/1/320x400.png)
The purpose of spiritual counseling is to support you in living from your deepest, most authentic self. As we continually develop, it can be difficult to remain authentic, difficult to balance our own highest values with cultural, vocational, and familial challenges. Especially in times of transition, it takes support, reflection and encouragement to remain true to who we are. While I bring my experience as an ordained Zen Buddhist to my spiritual counseling practice, ultimately my goal is to meet clients where they are, using the particularities of their strengths to help them settle more deeply into their true selves.
The purpose of spiritual counseling is to support you in living from your deepest, most authentic self. As we continually develop, it can be difficult to remain authentic, difficult to balance our own highest values with cultural, vocational, and familial challenges. Especially in times of transition, it takes support, reflection and encouragement to remain true to who we are. While I bring my experience as an ordained Zen Buddhist to my spiritual counseling practice, ultimately my goal is to meet clients where they are, using the particularities of their strengths to help them settle more deeply into their true selves.
![Photo of Mendim Zhuta - Therapy Now, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dde8e59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stop using the same approach and expecting different results. Try something new. Practice features: 2 decades of experience::: Customized approach based on your unique needs::: A proven track record helping you to develop new and successful solutions::: The opportunity to improve is renewed with each waking moment. 2024 is your year!
Stop using the same approach and expecting different results. Try something new. Practice features: 2 decades of experience::: Customized approach based on your unique needs::: A proven track record helping you to develop new and successful solutions::: The opportunity to improve is renewed with each waking moment. 2024 is your year!
![Photo of Gregory Weeks, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ceb79cb-366d-4235-a5b9-0d8ca6de934e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gregory Weeks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
I work well with clients who are motivated to change their lives. Our greatest challenges come during times of big life transitions. Through active listening and genuine empathy, I help my clients focus upon the inherent solutions to their most pressing problems. Motivation to change comes with the willingness to look closely and investigate the stories we tell ourselves. Often, I discover with my clients that their oldest and most damaging internal stories are simply not true. By having a fellow human who is open and fully present witness our lives, we can discover the very real possibility for greater health.
I work well with clients who are motivated to change their lives. Our greatest challenges come during times of big life transitions. Through active listening and genuine empathy, I help my clients focus upon the inherent solutions to their most pressing problems. Motivation to change comes with the willingness to look closely and investigate the stories we tell ourselves. Often, I discover with my clients that their oldest and most damaging internal stories are simply not true. By having a fellow human who is open and fully present witness our lives, we can discover the very real possibility for greater health.
![Photo of Vera Alice de Toledo-Powell, MA, NCC, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a691a53e-3256-428e-898a-3d1e7ac1a34e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vera Alice de Toledo-Powell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06902
My mission is to provide compassionate counseling that instills hope, provides tools to cope with life challenges, builds resilience; promotes mental health and well-being that will positively affect your life. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery. It is through our therapeutic alliance that we will travel together into a journey to optimal mental health and behavioral changes.
My mission is to provide compassionate counseling that instills hope, provides tools to cope with life challenges, builds resilience; promotes mental health and well-being that will positively affect your life. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery. It is through our therapeutic alliance that we will travel together into a journey to optimal mental health and behavioral changes.
![Photo of Priscila Podesta, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fe7386a-b07d-4257-940e-563affb6a6a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Priscila Podesta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Winsted, CT 06098 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed in Connecticut with 15 years of professional work experience. I have helped clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma/abuse, & life transitions. I know you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed in Connecticut with 15 years of professional work experience. I have helped clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma/abuse, & life transitions. I know you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
![Photo of Kim Andrews, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4da6813a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06042
Is life overwhelming? Are you feeling stuck figuring out how to transition through life situations in a healthy manner? I believe creating a life that is meaningful comes from integrating the mind, body, spirit, focusing on the whole person. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents to manage stress related to life events, life transitions, finding your life purpose and creating meaning in your life. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment for you to discover and understand what is holding you back from living a more genuine and authentic life that you want. Above all I believe that you design your life.
Is life overwhelming? Are you feeling stuck figuring out how to transition through life situations in a healthy manner? I believe creating a life that is meaningful comes from integrating the mind, body, spirit, focusing on the whole person. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents to manage stress related to life events, life transitions, finding your life purpose and creating meaning in your life. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment for you to discover and understand what is holding you back from living a more genuine and authentic life that you want. Above all I believe that you design your life.
![Photo of Jessica Zweiman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df3b6bf2-d956-49a1-b4fd-3d69ec4ffe82/3/320x400.png)
I am a firm believer that no matter the struggle, all people have the ability and the right to heal. It is important to get messy, to spend time talking it out, to tap into everything that is being buried within; perhaps somewhere unclaimed. Over time, the therapeutic journey can lead to a place of letting go and clearing space inside for forgiveness and empathy. When one creates space for growth, of both the past and the present, you can regain a balance and a sense of being grounded.
I am a firm believer that no matter the struggle, all people have the ability and the right to heal. It is important to get messy, to spend time talking it out, to tap into everything that is being buried within; perhaps somewhere unclaimed. Over time, the therapeutic journey can lead to a place of letting go and clearing space inside for forgiveness and empathy. When one creates space for growth, of both the past and the present, you can regain a balance and a sense of being grounded.
![Photo of Michael S. Harris, PhD, MDiv, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a506eac-98c5-49fb-86c2-4abe0c73a3b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael S. Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, MDiv, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Oxford, CT 06478
My ideal client seeks to navigate life's complexities with a deeper understanding of self and relationships, aiming for emotional well-being and personal fulfillment.
My ideal client seeks to navigate life's complexities with a deeper understanding of self and relationships, aiming for emotional well-being and personal fulfillment.
![Photo of Nina Sutton, MA, LPCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c411a1c-2840-43da-9b90-d5c3e79f1388/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nina Sutton
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Haven, CT 06513
If someone asks you how you think you’re doing in your life, what would you say? We may see signs that our life has gotten off course. Sometimes, others share their concerns for us, but we believe we can manage it ourselves. I meet each client where they are on their journey. Some have endured a difficult past or ongoing stress. Others have been through a traumatic event such as an accident, or the loss of a loved one through death or a break-up. Often, we don't recognize the impact of emotional toll, disguised as anxiety or other symptoms. My work helps you to connect the dots, providing support as you (re)build your best life.
If someone asks you how you think you’re doing in your life, what would you say? We may see signs that our life has gotten off course. Sometimes, others share their concerns for us, but we believe we can manage it ourselves. I meet each client where they are on their journey. Some have endured a difficult past or ongoing stress. Others have been through a traumatic event such as an accident, or the loss of a loved one through death or a break-up. Often, we don't recognize the impact of emotional toll, disguised as anxiety or other symptoms. My work helps you to connect the dots, providing support as you (re)build your best life.
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![Photo of Michael Vincent Pantalon, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d9466c3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My Center for Progressive Treatment is best for substance-involved individuals and their loved ones who have not reached their goals with traditional treatment, especially those who are not inclined toward 12-step (AA or NA) approaches. We believe that you, the client, 1) know what treatment will work for you (you pick from a wide array of scientifically-proven treatments vs. the traditional idea that others should decide for you); 2) already have the power to change (vs. it comes from admitting powerlessness); and 3) are your own best source of motivation (vs. it comes from external pressure or a higher power).
My Center for Progressive Treatment is best for substance-involved individuals and their loved ones who have not reached their goals with traditional treatment, especially those who are not inclined toward 12-step (AA or NA) approaches. We believe that you, the client, 1) know what treatment will work for you (you pick from a wide array of scientifically-proven treatments vs. the traditional idea that others should decide for you); 2) already have the power to change (vs. it comes from admitting powerlessness); and 3) are your own best source of motivation (vs. it comes from external pressure or a higher power).
![Photo of Taline Elizabeth Andonian, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bde7a59-8ab9-4184-90c9-5b9579f2f9d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taline Elizabeth Andonian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Andonian is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and founder of Resonance Center for Psychotherapy & Healing Arts in West Hartford, CT. Holistic Psychology and the integration of Western psychotherapy & neuroscience with Eastern healing practices are core practices at Resonance Center. As a descendent of Genocide survivors, Dr. Andonian is passionate about supporting individuals in moving toward liberation from the adverse effects of inter-generational trauma. Treatment options include innovative techniques such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), EMDR, Parts Work (IFS), Somatic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, & Sound Therapy.
Dr. Andonian is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and founder of Resonance Center for Psychotherapy & Healing Arts in West Hartford, CT. Holistic Psychology and the integration of Western psychotherapy & neuroscience with Eastern healing practices are core practices at Resonance Center. As a descendent of Genocide survivors, Dr. Andonian is passionate about supporting individuals in moving toward liberation from the adverse effects of inter-generational trauma. Treatment options include innovative techniques such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), EMDR, Parts Work (IFS), Somatic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, & Sound Therapy.
![Photo of Steven Mahoney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fcf0d9c-04ed-49e7-9a96-673e1364b4ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Haven, CT 06473
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have a core sense that you aren't good enough or that you don't quite feel whole? Maybe you have tried therapy, mindfulness, or read self-help books in the past. Nonetheless, you continue feeling anxious, tense, on edge, or worried as to how you can keep this up for another day, just barely holding it all together enough to get by. Maybe you have conflict in your relationships, problems at work, or a great sense of inner turmoil. The truth is, it doesn't have to be that way.
Do you have a core sense that you aren't good enough or that you don't quite feel whole? Maybe you have tried therapy, mindfulness, or read self-help books in the past. Nonetheless, you continue feeling anxious, tense, on edge, or worried as to how you can keep this up for another day, just barely holding it all together enough to get by. Maybe you have conflict in your relationships, problems at work, or a great sense of inner turmoil. The truth is, it doesn't have to be that way.
![Photo of Chelsea Barabtarlo, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c58a49d-cd0e-4384-b7ff-761cd5a21c98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Barabtarlo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oxford, CT 06478
Waitlist for new clients
My counseling style is warm, empathetic, motivational and collaborative using a strength-based approach. I view client difficulties through a systemic lens, integrating information from all areas of life. I help clients work through a variety of issues, such as but not limited to anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger, and relational challenges.
My counseling style is warm, empathetic, motivational and collaborative using a strength-based approach. I view client difficulties through a systemic lens, integrating information from all areas of life. I help clients work through a variety of issues, such as but not limited to anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger, and relational challenges.
![Photo of Asha Patlikh, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/463c377c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Asha Patlikh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
We all have unique stories: some are buried deep, some are open wounds, some we band aid and some we would rather forgot. Being able to have support and a safe place to look into these stories and then change the narrative to encompass the whole story requires a readiness to grow and heal from the inside out so that your new stories empower you and impact all of your relationships, including the relationship with yourself. Are you ready to heal and move into a more authentic and connected self?
We all have unique stories: some are buried deep, some are open wounds, some we band aid and some we would rather forgot. Being able to have support and a safe place to look into these stories and then change the narrative to encompass the whole story requires a readiness to grow and heal from the inside out so that your new stories empower you and impact all of your relationships, including the relationship with yourself. Are you ready to heal and move into a more authentic and connected self?
![Photo of Donald F. deGraffenried, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c39d079f-7ec1-473b-ba7c-491be16d7c8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work as a clinical social worker, in a supportive environment, is to help you find and implement solutions to the challenges that you are facing in your life
My work as a clinical social worker, in a supportive environment, is to help you find and implement solutions to the challenges that you are facing in your life
![Photo of Susan Goodman, LCSW, MSJ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45319286-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are concerned about your child or teenager, I can help. I work with children, teens and young adults who are struggling with emotional and social difficulties that may interfere with feeling more secure. Parents contact me for guidance with a broad range of issues including anxiety, relatedness issues, depression, school avoidance, learning challenges, trauma and grief. Together, we can demystify symptoms difficult to understand, so you and your child can feel deeply connected. I enjoy working with tweens, teens and young adults on identity and relationship issues, family conflict, school pressure, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, motivation and self-esteem.
If you are concerned about your child or teenager, I can help. I work with children, teens and young adults who are struggling with emotional and social difficulties that may interfere with feeling more secure. Parents contact me for guidance with a broad range of issues including anxiety, relatedness issues, depression, school avoidance, learning challenges, trauma and grief. Together, we can demystify symptoms difficult to understand, so you and your child can feel deeply connected. I enjoy working with tweens, teens and young adults on identity and relationship issues, family conflict, school pressure, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, motivation and self-esteem.
![Photo of Michael F. Morgan, MS, LPCA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9e9325b-7239-428b-b862-f9882ee3a339/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome - I work with individuals and couples in a safe, supportive, non-judgmental and accepting environment. Life can present challenges that are difficult, painful, overwhelming and confusing. Together we can find solutions, meaning, direction, healing, balance, and clarity in your relationships, personal and professional lives.
Welcome - I work with individuals and couples in a safe, supportive, non-judgmental and accepting environment. Life can present challenges that are difficult, painful, overwhelming and confusing. Together we can find solutions, meaning, direction, healing, balance, and clarity in your relationships, personal and professional lives.
![Photo of Karen B Walant, PhD, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25cd0f2d-21e7-49e4-8347-b663e43b8a2c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen B Walant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I believe in the power of therapy and mindfulness meditation. I've been witness to the growth and flourishing of so many people, as they discover and release themselves from age-old blockages and fear. I know the power of releasing the 'inner critic' and the value of discovering 'wise mind.' My psychotherapy home office is a refuge, where you will have the space to look within, and free yourself from whatever inner cognition(s) are holding you back. I promise to bring you the most effective, evidence-based strategies, including advances in neuroscience, to increase your overall wellbeing and whole-heartedness.
I believe in the power of therapy and mindfulness meditation. I've been witness to the growth and flourishing of so many people, as they discover and release themselves from age-old blockages and fear. I know the power of releasing the 'inner critic' and the value of discovering 'wise mind.' My psychotherapy home office is a refuge, where you will have the space to look within, and free yourself from whatever inner cognition(s) are holding you back. I promise to bring you the most effective, evidence-based strategies, including advances in neuroscience, to increase your overall wellbeing and whole-heartedness.
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Buddhist Therapists
Is buddhism beneficial for mental health?
While Buddhism itself is not a treatment for mental health conditions, its practices can greatly enhance mental well-being by introducing coping skills and ideas that promote overall wellness. Key Buddhist practices, such as mindfulness, have been shown to alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma. Moreover, Buddhism's focus on self-compassion, non-judgment, and acceptance can benefit individuals with particularly negative or self-critical thought patterns.
What are the concepts and principles of buddhism as a therapeutic approach?
Core Buddhist principles are often used in therapy to help clients gain insight into their thoughts and emotions. Concepts such as suffering (dukkha) and impermanence (anicca) are applied to help clients recognize that common forms of suffering, like repetitive negative thought patterns, can be accepted and viewed as impermanent. The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are additional core concepts utilized frequently in Buddhist therapy sessions. The Four Noble Truths highlight the existence of suffering as an inherent part of the human experience—an insight frequently used to move clients toward greater acceptance. The Eightfold Path, which includes right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right concentration, and right mindfulness, offers practical skills to alleviate suffering.
What is the buddhist approach and practice during a therapy session?
Therapists informed by Buddhist principles often integrate mindfulness and meditation practices into therapy sessions to help clients cultivate greater acceptance, compassion, and non-judgment toward themselves and others. Typically, Buddhist therapists guide clients through mindfulness exercises, such as breathing exercises or body scans, and encourage them to practice similar exercises outside of sessions. Additionally, many Buddhist therapists utilize elements of Positive Psychology or Compassion-Focused Therapy, which can help reduce symptoms of self-criticism and shame common among clients with various mental health conditions. In general, Buddhist therapists strive to embody the compassion and non-judgmental approach they promote, often incorporating exercises aimed at developing compassion in session, such as loving-kindness meditation (Metta).
Is mindfulness the same as buddhism in the context of therapy?
While Buddhist therapists frequently integrate mindfulness practices into therapy sessions, the terms mindfulness and Buddhism are not synonymous in the context of therapy. Therapists may use mindfulness techniques, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), without identifying as a Buddhist therapist. In contrast, those practicing within a Buddhist belief framework typically encourage mindfulness therapies, in addition to foundational Buddhist beliefs, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. These therapists may also guide clients toward a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy, unlike those who use Buddhist mindfulness principles without the broader spiritual context.