Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in Fairfield, CT

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience in mental and behavioral health. I have worked with children, adolescents and families struggling with a variety of issues ranging from developmental disorders and physical handicaps to psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, conduct disorder and antisocial personality disorder. I have extensive experience providing intensive in-home treatment services and have also worked with clients in schools, residential facilities and community-based settings.

In an ever-changing world, we need mental health care that doesn’t offer a false promise of a quick fix. It is difficult to pick up the phone to call a therapist — especially if you’ve never been to therapy before, or if you’re depressed, and you just ... can’t. I understand that and am here to walk you through. I believe that taking care of our mental health should be an ongoing and sustained practice that is celebrated instead of stigmatized. Instead of viewing therapy as only necessary when you are in a crisis, my hope is to break the mold and remind you that you deserve mental health support.

For many, the teenage years can bring on a variety of changes and challenges, both physically as well as socially and emotionally. Since 2015, I have worked as a public school counselor, with teenagers grades 9-12, addressing their individual academic, social, and emotional needs. I also have a great deal of experience in both college admissions and secondary education counseling.

Do you think you or your child/teen/young adult is capable of more, but often falls short despite their abilities? Do you want to improve communication? Do small things turn into big things? I often work individually or with families to address different challenges including anxiety, perfectionism, ADHD, disorganization, poor communication, neurodivergence and social difficulties. Families find I have a warm, direct approach that focuses on changing family dynamics and improving individual coping skills to manage symptoms.

Is everyday a parenting struggle and everything a battle? Considering medication but would love an alternative that works? I offer two evidenced-based therapies, one for parents/ one for children. I can help you navigate through the most difficult of parenting struggles. Mild behavioral issues such as potty training and following directions to more severe such as, ADHD, school issues, anxiety, and aggression/talking back. This short-term program, (generally 3-8) achieves success quickly! The techniques help parents stay consistent and calm which also decreases marital discord and family chaos. Call today and begin increasing cooperation and compliance, and enjoy family time again.

Managing everyday life can be tough. We can feel overwhelmed, anxious, worried, and/or depressed. During these challenging times it can be hard to connect with family and friends or just find peace. It's okay, I am here to help. I offer a holistic view of therapy nestled within a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings as we identify the problem, set goals and work toward accomplishing your goals. I am trained in multiple theories of psychotherapy which enables me to use whatever approach works best for you. I promise to be present because you deserve my attention and I promise to hear you because you deserve to be heard.

Welcome! I am truly grateful that you took the time to stop by and check out my profile. It takes strength and courage to move forward through life’s challenges and it is important to know when we need to ask for help. I am here to partner with you, to help you overcome the bumps in the road and to come through them with more personal insight and self-love. I believe in a trauma informed, holistic and person-centered approach. This means that I am here for you; to work at a pace that feels comfortable and safe. We will work together to build a trusting relationship and to outline your therapy goals.

Stress, anxiety, fear, anger, resentment, and guilt are just a few of negative emotions that can come up for parents when their child is defiant, hurts their sibling, acts helpless or negatively seeks attention. Big feelings for child and parent result in a full family breakdown. During weekly sessions, parents learn how to release the negative emotions they experience and learn to rewire their brains and release their negative parenting patterns established in childhood. Parents gain the tools to win the child's cooperation, stop the power struggles, and establish positive family connections. The parent and child start thriving!

I am the owner of a group practice. We are accepting new clients. I have limited spots. There are times in life when everyone needs a little help. You might be dealing with grief, such as losing a family member or a beloved pet. You may be struggling with daily problems like past trauma, financial difficulties, or issues focusing. We help individuals feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or want to feel differently. With a supportive relationship and a safe space to share these things this process can allow the time for you to start to enjoy life, feel more confident, and recognize yourself again.

Expert, kind and teamwork-oriented psychotherapy. Together, we will find the best path forward toward your goals through increased self-knowledge and skill. I have worked in various clinical settings and provide therapy that is active, problem-focused, and evidence-based - meaning there is strong research indicating that these types of approaches are effective at reducing problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors associated with a variety of diagnoses and problem areas.

After years of working with children and their families in both home and school settings, I am well versed in issues of parenting and behavior mangagement. Children with difficulties have an impact on the entire family. My treatment strives is to maximize the individual functioning of the family member in need, as well support the overall functioning of the family; goals are to increase insight/understanding of behavioral challenges while providing practical solutions. This includes increasing the confidence/ability of parents to meet the many challenges of parenting. My approach is empathetic and supportive, while offering practical, effective intervention strategies.

With a clinical experience spanning over two decades, well beyond 25 years, I bring an extensive wealth of knowledge and profound insights to the field of behavioral health. My expertise goes beyond a mere understanding of therapeutic resources; it encompasses unwavering compassion for individuals grappling with intricate behavioral health challenges. My commitment is not just to listen, but to wholeheartedly engage with your unique experiences, fostering a deep therapeutic connection. In the intricate landscape of clinical practice, life often resembles a voyage into uncharted territories.

As a therapy group, we are rooted in building therapeutic relationships that lead to self-discovery and the development of healthy behavioral patterns, focusing on optimizing mental health and daily functioning. Whether you're feeling stuck or facing other challenges, we are here to help you achieve optimal mental health and reduce the obstacles in your life that may be holding you back. Please visit our website to learn more about each of us! www.mainstreetcounselor.com

A friend and colleague once wrote "I have known Debra since she took a position in 1994 as a Clinical Psychologist in our regional hospital. Physicians, nurses, and I were soon taken by her warmth, compassion, and ability to help others, even those with the most difficult of problems. She demonstrated an affinity for children, adolescents, and families, having an instinctual playful approach with children, easy connection with adolescents, and sensitivity toward families." Since that time, I - Debra - have attempted to join others along their path and walk with them toward a better future.

When difficult personal and family issues occur, working with a very experienced and well trained therapist can really help. I have been in practice for 35 years, helping individuals, couples and families find solutions to problems with anxiety, ADHD, depression, phobias, OCD and trauma related issues. We will work together to take a comprehensive evaluation of your situation, and then focus in on specific changes that will to improve things. Our work may utilize individual, couples, family work, or a combination of these modalities. I work collaboratively with other professionals and school staff as needed.

I am an intuitive coach and spiritual guide. My work combines my background and training in counseling and psychology with intuitive guidance to help clients heal, grow, and realize their full spiritual and personal potential. For years, I have supported children, teens and adults in connecting with their spiritual wisdom and enhancing all aspects of their lives. I can teach you how to tap into your inner resources, and help you to find strength, clarity and growth through your life’s challenges. I help you in healing your deepest hurts and connecting with your own inner healer.

I have been in private practice for more than 15 years and pride myself on helping individuals develop a strong sense of identity. I received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from The New School for Social Research and have extensive training from Beth Israel Medical Center, North Central Bronx Hospital, Lenox Hill Hospital, and New York Presbyterian Hospital. I practice in Westport, CT, and Manhattan, NY. I work with families, adults, children, and adolescents suffering from mood, anxiety, and eating disorders, and help cope with life transitions, including parenthood, divorce, emerging adulthood, medical illness, and end-of-life.

Asking for help can be challenging for many people, especially when you’re not feeling your best. Given the range of options, choosing the right therapist for you may feel overwhelming and confusing. Having an appreciation of the value of the therapist-client fit, I am committed to providing a comfortable and safe environment where issues may be better understood. As a seasoned therapist, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults who are struggling with concerns related to self-esteem, school, ADHD, work, family, life stage transitions, eating disorders, illness and losses.

Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, sadness, or feeling stuck in life? You're not alone, and you don't have to face these difficulties by yourself. At Coastal, we understand how overwhelming these feelings can be, and we are here to offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions. Together, we can identify your strengths and work towards healing and personal growth. Your well-being is important, and we are committed to being with you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier, happier you!