I look to help you identify your strengths and utilize them so that you can achieve your desired outcomes. My approach is to utilize multidimensional psychodynamic tools based upon your life course and inherent difficulties. In conjunction with the client, goals will be developed and guidance will be provided in order to achieve the optimal short term gains and long term objectives. Change is achieved through solution focused and task based theories to help achieve change. These tools can be particularly helpful for those coping with negative thought patterns, depression, anxiety, developmental differences, executive functioning difficulties and challenges associated with trauma and transitions. My practice has entailed work with a wide variety of individuals and focused upon the needs of each person. I have also engaged in practice with individuals with autism, those impacted by a wide range of environmental challenges as well as those having difficulty making life transitions. I have also participated in family based crisis management, helped families develop a range of techniques to improve relationships with their significant others and acted as a conduit between family members coping with trauma. I live with my wife, daughters and two dogs and have a passion for helping others. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you have your aspirations align with your actions!

As a licensed therapist in New York, I bring nearly four decades of professional experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate diverse issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing workplace challenges, midlife transitions, social anxiety, attachment concerns, and trauma recovery. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each client's unique journey. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with life purpose, managing interpersonal dynamics, or seeking healing from past experiences, I offer skilled, empathetic guidance. I have extensive expertise in supporting young adults, veterans, and individuals confronting complex emotional landscapes. My practice embraces diversity and provides a non-judgmental space for exploring personal identity, relationships, and emotional well-being.

I am licensed in New York with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, anger management, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. I believe that 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.

Welcome to BetterHelp, if you are reaching out for help it shows your are interested in recovering your life and starting to work toward solutions to challenges. My name is Michelle Defino, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12 years experience. I graduated from Binghamton University in 2008 and have worked primarily worked with substance abuse/co-occurring clients. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bi-polar and other more severe mental illness. I have worked with a Federal Re-entry Substance Abuse Program for the last 3 years. I use many forms of therapy to meet the needs of my clients including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution focused. I use these modalities to help to change thinking and behaviors that lead to many of the issues in daily life. Another modality I use is mindfulness to increase focus and concentration. I realize how difficult it can be to ask for assistance and how important it is for you and I am looking forward to working with you and helping you to gain the life you are hoping for. I will consider different ways to work with you, however prefer video, since we will be able to see and get to know each other easier. I am looking forward to meeting and working with you.

I am licensed in New York with 50 years of professional work experience. I have graduated with a PhD from Fordham and also attended an international institute for advanced clinical hypnotherapy. I have experience in helping clients with intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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 am licensed in New York with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in New York and Connecticut with 30 years of professional work experience. I am a LCSW-R and a CASAC(Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in New York with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that 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.

Valerie A. Farrell Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTPII, CASAC-A, RMT Life is a chain of events with unexpected turns and directional missteps. Therapy is the beginning of one’s awareness, healing, and redirection. I focus on guiding individuals and families, as they navigate life’s challenges, understanding intergenerational and complex developmental trauma and its impact on one's lifespan. I weave the therapeutic journey to each person’s unique needs, drawing on somatic, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, energy-based, and motivational interviewing techniques. My experience spans over twenty-eight years assisting individuals in setting a course of action and building emotional resilience. My specialized care addresses substance use, anxiety. depression, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), death and dying, grief and loss, family/relational discord, chronic health conditions, and spiritual direction. My commitment is to facilitate transformative change, empowerment, and holistic well-being. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am honored to be a part of your journey!

I am licensed in New York with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, substance & alcohol abuse, codependency, smoking & vaping cessation and coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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 am licensed in New York and bring over 11 years of professional experience as a therapist. I earned my graduate degree from New York University (NYU), where I received a strong foundation in clinical social work and evidence-based therapeutic practices. Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working with a wide range of individuals facing challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, and adjusting to major life changes. I also had the meaningful experience of working with World Trade Center (WTC) first responders through the FDNY, which deepened my understanding of trauma, resilience, and the unique mental health needs of those in high-stress professions. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is personalized and collaborative—I tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to reflect your unique needs, values, and goals. I draw from a range of evidence-based interventions, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – to help challenge and reframe unhelpful thoughts Solution-Focused Therapy – to set meaningful goals and focus on your strengths Trauma-Informed Care – to support healing in a safe, grounded way Mindfulness-Based Strategies – to improve emotional regulation and self-awareness Narrative Therapy – to help reshape the stories we tell about ourselves Person-Centered Therapy – to foster autonomy, empowerment, and unconditional support It takes courage to reach out and begin the process of change. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply looking for deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support and empower you on your journey toward a more fulfilling life.

Life is full of both positive and challenging experiences that shape us in unique ways. As a licensed psychotherapist in New York, I support individuals in understanding what is working well in their lives and what may benefit from deeper therapeutic exploration. My goal is to help clients achieve greater emotional stability, a sense of tranquility, and a deeper feeling of fulfillment. I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, social anxiety, and relationship difficulties, as well as those navigating major life transitions such as starting a new job, entering a new relationship, adapting to a new lifestyle, or immigrating to the United States. I understand the emotional, cultural, and practical challenges that come with these transitions and strive to help clients cultivate contentment, acceptance, and confidence as they adjust. I also specialize in working with individuals and families involved with ACS and with clients managing immigration-related cases. My approach is compassionate, structured, and culturally sensitive, providing support tailored to the unique needs of those facing these circumstances. My practice is grounded in helping clients develop self-compassion, strengthen communication skills, and build resilience. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their identities, personal histories, and daily experiences with openness and safety. I hold a particular interest in women’s issues, workplace dynamics, multicultural concerns, and areas of personal growth. Drawing upon years of clinical experience, I work collaboratively with clients to enhance self-esteem, develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being, and maintain the positive changes achieved in therapy. I recognize that each person’s journey is distinct, and I honor individual strengths, values, and lived experiences throughout the therapeutic process. My work is rooted in empathy, respect, and a genuine dedication to helping clients connect with their inner resources and discover their capacity for healing and transformation. I am committed to providing accessible, high-quality psychotherapy to individuals and families from all backgrounds as they work toward healing, stability, and personal growth.

I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, despression, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am a psychotherapist who works from a psychodynamic perspective, drawing on my specialized training in interpersonal psychoanalysis. I received my advanced training at the Manhattan Institute for Interpersonal Psychoanalysis. In my work, I emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship itself as a vehicle for insight and change. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and complex relational patterns. My approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and attuned to your needs. I received my Masters in Social Work at the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. Most of my clients would describe me as insightful, warm and empathic. As an interpersonal therapist, I learn about you through our relationship and part of my mission is to reflect my insights back to you. Through this collaborative approach, I emphasize curiosity, emotional safety, and the ways early relationships continue to shape present-day experience.