Marriage and Family Therapist at Wisdom Within Counseling and Coaching In Niantic, Connecticut
Couples Therapist and Child and Adolescent Therapist
My name is Kelsey!
I love working with children displaying symptoms of anxiety after moving, families working through adoption, teens and adults living with anxiety and PTSD, as well as couples who need help with communication and who are in the aftermath of infidelity.
Additional trainings I’ve completed include, Suicide Awareness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Essentials, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Kids, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Marriage Therapy Certification Levels I & II.
I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults who are seeking help for transitions whether it’s a move, starting a new job, or flirting with the idea of taking on a new challenge.
Aside from abuse I believe all couples have the opportunity to revise their relationship.
With time and dedication, I work to bring hope back to the table for you and your spouse. At the end of the day, we all wish to love and be loved. External factors such as finances, children, and sickness can alter the joy in your relationship. I am here to affirm that there is hope and provide an opportunity for closeness.
Support In Couples Therapy In East Lyme, Connecticut
Why I Love Being A Therapist
I love being a therapist because it gives me the opportunity to learn more about others. Therapy allows individuals and families to grow in a positive direction. Life is challenging and being your confidant is a privilege I am proud to have.
Why I Help Couples and Families
I chose marriage and family therapy work because I have found couples and families to be fascinating my whole life. I find working collaboratively with couples and seeing change happen over time is extremely rewarding. Being a mediator and helping build or clear the lines of communication is something I love to do. When my family and friends heard that I was entering this field it came as no surprise because I love talking to and understanding people.
My Favorite Quote:
“The quality of your life ultimately depends on the quality of your relationships.” – Ester Perel
My Favorite Thing To Do On the Weekend
On the weekends, I enjoy spending time with my family. I’ve been really into gardening and yard work during my spare time. It allows me to tap into my nurturing side and slow down. Some other hobbies of mine are volleyball, bouldering, and playing guitar.
Favorite Anxiety Coping Skill
BOX BREATHING!
I think understanding that we all have the ability to manipulate our nervous system is so important. Those who deal with anxious behaviors can feel debilitated at times. During our sessions we can work on various coping skills. Some are more complex than others, but the box breathing method can be done at any time or place.
I advise you to start focusing on a few rounds of box breathing the moment you feel their mind spiraling or somatic symptoms triggered.
To do this we will inhale for 4 counts hold for 4 counts and continue. For some extra soothing elements, I advise you to use your index finger to draw the box on your leg or arm as you delve into this breath work.
Adding an ice cube to your mouth (if accessible) can enhance the response of this technique. It’s a good way to refocus.
About Kelsey, Marriage and Family Therapist in Niantic, Connecticut
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, with a bachelors in Psychology and a Masters in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family therapy. I completed my graduate internship hours with Cohen Military Family clinic in Mililani, Hawaii from 2022- 2023.
I have experience with Military families to include children, adolescents, and adults. I understand the unique challenges service members face, as well as their family members. I served in the U.S. Navy from 2016-2021 and am married to an active duty, Navy Diver.
One Fun Fact About Me:
I was able to live in a small coastal city called Gaeta, Italy for two years when I was serving in the Navy. Living in Europe is an opportunity that I think about often. Being able to immerse myself in a totally different culture was formative. I am grateful for that opportunity every day!
