Elena Conte LCSW

I use a variety of modalities in my work, depending on the individual(s) in front of me. My favorite modality is Emergence, developed by Steven Paglierani. I have found that studying Emergence helps me heal my own wounds and struggles and allows me to understand my human nature on a deeper level in a nonjudgmental way. Emergence is not simply a therapy modality, but also a scientific method. It’s a personality theory. Emergence is many things, and throughout our sessions, I may teach you more about it. Additionally, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-focused methods.

Almost every person I have ever met with was nervous for our first few sessions. Please know that I want to help you change your life and find joy in it. I will likely ask you why you're seeking therapy, so that will be good for you to think about; if you don't know why, that's totally okay, too. I will go over topics like confidentiality and fees. Prepare any questions you have about treatment or about me and my personality. Most importantly, be open and be yourself.

It's normal to be nervous about trying something new. How could someone not be nervous about talking to a stranger and telling them your whole life story? I wish I could tell more people to give it an honest shot. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with may take many tries. Spend time with each therapist you try, at least 3-4 sessions to assess your comfort level. Yes, this is definitely a lot of work. However, the work that therapy entails allows you to change your life.

• New York, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 095350

I wanted to be a therapist at such a young age; I did not really even know what a therapist was! When I was younger, I was rather tech savvy. I set up a Freewebs Site for people to ask questions, so that I could give advice (think: Dear Abby). I just wanted to help people; it felt like I had a superpower when I could help someone. While I was still in elementary school, I ended up going to in-school counseling. I met with a counselor once a week, grieving the loss of my grandfather. I remember the counselor being so kind to me. I want to give that kindness to others, while giving them a safe space to explore whatever is on their mind. To obtain my LCSW, I attended Fordham University for both my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Social Work and my Master of Social Work degrees. I interned at a middle school, high school, and an adolescents’ psychiatric center. Post graduation, I worked for the Office of Mental Health clinics. I’ve been exposed to a variety of diagnoses and life circumstances, and I can only hope that I’ve been able to help people be gentle with themselves and gain from their challenges.