Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Cheshire, CT

"Every emotion serves a purpose, especially the difficult ones. I have learned that every difficulty in my life has also been an opportunity to figure out who I am and what matters most to me. It’s not easy to be positive when life brings pain, but it’s always possible to stay open to the lessons it brings."

Jennifer Kowalski is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Connecticut with over 20 years of experience working in the field of mental health and addiction services. Jennifer believes that we all have a responsibility to make the life we want regardless of our circumstances, and with encouragement and acceptance, we can all be empowered to change. 

Jennifer has received her Master of Arts in Psychology and her Master of Science in Community Mental Health Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University. She has certificates in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing. Jennifer’s theoretical orientation is existential in that she believes that while we cannot control many of the things in life that cause pain, we are able to control the way we think about them.

Jennifer understands that there are situations that cause unavoidable discomfort, and the goal is not always to be happy. Sometimes the goal is to find a way forward and therapy is a modality that allows one to navigate their way through a life-changing situation. Jennifer seeks to work together to focus on your strengths to find opportunities for growth, and when you are ready you will set goals that positively impact your future.

Stephanie Jaksina is an Associated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-A) who has over 10 years of experience assisting clients of all ages and is experienced in providing group, individual, and family therapy services. Stephanie specializes in helping those who are suffering from the effects of anxiety, depression, oppositional defiance problems (ODD), academic issues, stress, PTSD, women’s issues, ADHD, anger, and more. 

In sessions, Stephanie utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach, pulling from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), expressive arts, mindfulness-based approaches (MBCT), motivational interviewing, narrative-based approaches, and more. She's naturally compassionate, caring, and empathetic. Her goal is to work with you to address your needs and concerns in every session. 

Stephanie's here to provide a safe and judgment-free therapeutic space to help work through obstacles you might have. She enjoys helping clients to build a therapeutic process and treatment plan appropriate that works best for them. Stephanie is here to help you create a positive, healthier life for yourself. 

I have experience working with various populations across many settings. However, children and adolescents have composed my case load for the last decade. Although a majority of my career has taken place in a school environment. I have experience with persons suffering from chemical dependency and counseling in an outpatient mental health setting. We can work together to address your goals and individual needs. I have a degree in social work with a concentration in children. I am also a licensed alcohol and drug counselor. I have facilitated groups in Intensive Outpatient, Children of alcoholics groups and have taught impaired driver intervention courses. At this time the population I provide assistance to require help with social skills and emotion regulation skills. I like to listen and offer suggestions to solve problems. It is my goal to build a rapport and make the experience as comfortable as possible. I am here to help by providing my flexible schedule to address your needs. I am available for brief counseling or long term support. /no matter the size of the concern big or small we can practice the skills to build success in your life.

"I will work with you to figure out what is missing or feels out of place and get back those pieces of yourself so you can feel positive again."

Lisa Nelson is a Licensed Professor Counselor with 13 years of experience. She specializes in assisting young adults, adults, and seniors with a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and self-identity. Lisa works to develop a relationship with clients in order to identify the best clinical approach and tailor care to their unique needs.

Lisa has a Master’s in Art Therapy from Albertus Magnus College. In addition to cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques, Lisa incorporates art therapy, music, and yoga when deemed appropriate.

Lisa will work with you to identify strengths and skills, set goals, and find the approach that works best for you. If you are ready to feel better, schedule an initial appointment with Lisa today!

"I am simply looking to connect on a basic human level."

Julia Girardin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a primary background in medical healthcare. She provides support for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, grief/bereavement, chronic illness, life transition, addiction/substance abuse, and an array of other issues. Her ideal client is looking for a space to explore a deeper understanding of him or herself as well as willing to put in the work.

Julia received her Master of Social Work from SUNY Albany. She is an old soul who is also young at heart — as a result, she connects with what seems like all ages and lets her clients direct the conversation. Together, Julia and her clients work to make a plan and see it through. She will connect with you on a basic, human level and create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs. 

"As a member of the LGBTQ+ community (she/they), I bring a deep sense of respect and insight into my work."

Lisbeth Gannon is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults with depression, anxiety, and ADHD improve their mood, manage troubling thoughts, and enjoy more life satisfaction. She also enjoys working with the LGBTQ+ community and honoring gender identity. Lisbeth completed her Master of Art Therapy at Albertus Magnus College and her Bachelor in Psychology at Western Connecticut State University.

As a Registered Art Therapist, Lisbeth knows that facilitating art therapy exercises with clients helps them to gain insight into the challenges they experience. There is no need for previous art training to participate in art therapy.

You know yourself better than anyone else. Lisbeth will help you guide your own treatment and find the right path for you. She will honor your experience as you work together toward your goals. Schedule an appointment today!