Emily Guarnotta 

During our first session, I will start with a brief introduction and then begin asking questions about you and your history. I have found that some new clients are nervous and would like to be asked questions, while others are more comfortable taking the lead and sharing what is most important. Toward the end of the session, I will provide you with an opportunity to ask me any questions, discuss whether we both feel we are a good match for one another, and identify treatment goals. We will also go over paperwork, discuss how often we will meet, and review office policies and procedures.

I take an integrative approach to psychotherapy, which means that I incorporate several different approaches to therapy and tailor them to meet my client's needs. I have training in psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, humanistic, and solution-focused therapy. Depending upon your particular diagnosis, history, and preferences, I will choose an approach that I feel will be most helpful to you.

As someone who frequently works with anxiety, I often find that new clients are nervous to start the therapy process. Sometimes this causes them to put off therapy for several years. I try to remind anyone in this position that these feelings are normal and encourage them to share. If you are nervous about our first session, feel free to let me know and we will work together on trying to make it a more comfortable experience for you.

I have worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient, residential, and outpatient treatment centers. I have treated clients dealing with a variety of concerns, including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, perinatal mental health, and drug and alcohol abuse.