Therapists in Rochester, NY

Often in our lives we may encounter experiences which our current adaptive skills no longer serve us. Acceptance, compassion, and honesty with yourself can be challenging. Reaching out for support is often hard. It is during these times of discomfort that being met where you are, with what you have may be an opportunity to change the current course of your life.

Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience helping individuals and families overcome life challenges. My goal is to assist individuals to explore choices for making changes in life that will enhance relationships and improve the overall quality of their lives. When working with clients, I utilize a comprehensive approach that focuses on interpersonal aspects of their lives. I specifically utilize strength-based and cognitive behavior therapies while integrating specific techniques tailored to the unique needs of the individual.

If you’ve been struggling to navigate challenges in your daily life, or are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship detriments, it can be an isolating experience. If you’re reading this, you recognize the need to make a change, and have already taken the first step. Let’s take the next step together, and further explore how you can restore your best self. Whether you have a goal in mind, are interested in developing new skills for personal success, or are looking for guidance, I look forward to the opportunity of supporting you on your journey of healing and health.

Have you lost touch with what used to matter to you? Perhaps your former goals have lost their luster or the attainment of these has proven disappointing. Can you find your way back to an enjoyable life—toward one worth living? I hope to help you to address these questions and worries with curiosity, compassion, humor and reflection.

Feeling overwhelmed? Flooded with painful emotion? Out of touch with yourself? When we don't have the relational support to help us during times of distress, we tend to find other ways to cope with our suffering or to disconnect altogether. Although these coping strategies may have kept us alive and functioning in the past, they may not be serving our best interests. Therapy can be a place to learn more adaptive ways of coping and to use even difficult experiences to grow as a person. As a psychologist, I use research-proven techniques to help people who are in the midst of crises as well as people who feel broken and unhelpable.

I offer insightful counseling in a welcoming, judgement free space. I specialize in couples therapy, relationship issues, and helping individuals cope with and overcome symptoms of anxiety and depression. I focus on the whole person, knowing no one is simply the sum of their symptoms.

You're troubled and don't know the way out. The strategies you may have tried--addictions, ruminating, blaming others or yourself, and secrecy--don't hold the answers and increase your suffering. I would be happy to talk with you about your situation and explore how therapy could help you find the way out. I understand about addiction, trauma, and the difficulty of feeling safe and learning to trust again. I can help you take charge of your life and solve problems so that you can cultivate happiness from within and create a better life for yourself.

Hi, you have clicked on me for a reason, I hope you will read on. There must be something in your life that you are struggling with. Struggling with OCD? Maybe feeling alone in your relationship? Feeling disconnected and depressed? Have been in therapy before and want deeper solutions? I am happy and honored to help. I practice with compassion and truly want to help you find a solution. You've taken an important first step in searching for help and I hope you will join me in your journey.

Therapy can feel broad and overwhelming. To simplify our approach, we'll seek acceptance and control of adversities that seem to dictate your life. Whatever stressors weigh on you, we'll troubleshoot what hasn't been working and process new tools to put in place. It is my responsibility to adapt to your preferences and ways of learning. I'll provide a space for you that can range from open discussion and exploration, to structured activities and weekly goals. Additionally, these steps are flexible and can be done in a matter of time that fits what you hope to achieve. All possible with individual, couples, and/or family therapy.

My theoretical orientation and practice combine current and research-based models that include Psychodynamic, Existential/ Humanistic, Family Systems, Behavioral, and Cognitive Behavioral foundations for case conceptualization, patient development, and the betterment of each person in their relation to others. My approach emphasizes a strength-based perspective that takes into consideration the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors that influence each patient and their relationships, as well as how the larger community or society impacts the presenting concern and situation.

Clients describe my style as relaxed and conversational. I have extensive experience with CBT, DBT, and Self Compassion therapy models and my focus is sharing strategies from these models in clear and uncomplicated ways. I focus on building a relationship with my clients so they feel safe to talk about what's going on without throwing a bunch of clinical jargon at them. This can be tough work, my goal is to provide a meaningful experience and help you figure things out.

You can't just 'get rid' of anxiety. Anxiety is a smoke alarm. It scans our environment, our body, and our mind for signs of trouble. When it finds trouble, it sets off the alarm. So we need to address the fire, not the alarm. If you want to explore what it is that anxiety is trying to tell you, then I may just be the therapist for you!

Thank you for taking the time to view my profile! Are you feeling overwhelmed with change and choices? Are you feeling disconnected from others and having a difficult time communicating needs and desires? Let’s talk about it. If you are seeking a space where you feel comfortable being your true self, welcome. I seek to provide genuine compassion, empathy, and understanding while we address your genuine and valid concerns. Please contact me by email for quickest response.

I am currently accepting new patients in my parenting group. Please call or email for more information.

The journey of therapy should be something you are drawn toward, not something you have to convince yourself to do. I want my clients to look forward to coming to their sessions, especially when what we're working through is tough. Therapy is a serious and powerful undertaking, but it doesn't have to be ominous. I think being down-to-earth and as lighthearted as possible about the institution of therapy helps to make it feel more accessible and fight any stigma attached to it. I look forward to working with you, you and your partner, or your family!

My primary service is long-term existential-holistic psychotherapy. I employ a non-pathologizing approach to assist middle-aged individuals who experience an existential crisis, grappling with feelings of anxiety, stagnation, isolation, or inadequacy in creating meaningful connections with the world around them.

I believe each and every individual has the power and courage to make positive changes in their lives, even though there may be times when we struggle to recognize our strengths and our ability to overcome adversity. Although there are times when we feel stuck and without direction, I believe each and every person holds the map to a better future for themselves. Through processing, a trusting relationship, authenticity, unconditional positive regard, and the use of therapeutic modalities; I help my clients identify and work towards goals to make positive changes in their lives.

I am currently accepting clients along the spectrum of issues revolving around relationships, intimacy, sexuality, and sexual identity. This includes individuals seeking a more full, balanced, and healthy relationship to self; as well as anyone seeking better relationships to others, including monogamous or polyamorous relationships, and communities.

With 30 years of experience, Dr. Russo's psychotherapy practice serves adults in a comforting and confidential setting. Quality treatment is provided which is evidence based, time-effective, and based on your chosen treatment goals. Individual psychotherapy is available. Office hours are Monday through Friday 12:00- 8:00 pm. Together, we will strive for wellness, balance and recovery in your life. Dr. Russo is a member of the New York State Psychological Association as well as the Genesee Valley Psychological Association.