Family therapy and counseling in Bridgeport, CT

I began my career working with children and quickly expanded my expertise to include adults and couples. Throughout my 26 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have seen the incredible power of the human spirit to overcome trauma and unexpected life struggles. Watching my clients transition from "surviving" to "thriving" remains the most inspiring part of my work.

Psychiatric provider with experience supporting children, adults, and older adults, I provide compassionate, holistic, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to your needs. Through comprehensive assessments, personalized screenings, lab testing, psychotherapy, medication management, and education, I empower you to understand your treatment and potential responses.

I understand how exhausting it can feel to be caught in the same patterns or unsure how to help someone you care about. I offer a calm, approachable, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. We will work together at a pace that feels right for you. Reach out when you are ready to begin.

I believe that most people already have a deep understanding of themselves and what they need, it can just be difficult to access that understanding when we’re overwhelmed, stuck, or caught in patterns that no longer serve us.

As a systems therapist, I look beyond the individual to understand the relationships, experiences, and environments that shape how we think, feel, and respond. I’m particularly interested in helping people understand interpersonal conflict and the patterns that develop between us, whether with a partner, family member, friend, or colleague.

Life can be a lot. Between juggling work, friends and family life, anxiety and sadness can sneak up on you. Therapy isn’t about lying on a couch while someone silently nods, it’s about having a real convo with someone who gets it. Together, we’ll work together out how to quiet the noise, boost your mental health, and build habits that make life feel less like survival mode and more like you actually living it. Life throws curveballs — and when we don’t fully process them, they can sneakily pile up as stress, anxiety, or that heavy feeling you just can’t shake. That’s where therapy comes in.

My mission is simple: create a space where you can express yourself, shake off the weight you’ve been carrying, and explore who you’ve been, who you are, and who you want to become. A safe zone for real talk and growth. EMDR (a way of helping your brain re-file old memories so they don’t keep hitting the panic button), systems theory, person centered theory.

Therapy with me isn’t about lying on a couch in awkward silence. It’s modern, collaborative, sometimes even a little fun — because growth doesn’t always have to feel heavy. I’m open-minded yet structured and here to make the process feel less like a chore and more like a genuine reset.

For insurances I do not accept: Out of network provider: 4 questions to ask insurance representative: Does your plan include "out-of-network" coverage for mental health? What is your annual deductible for mental health benefits? What is your co-insurance? (What percentage does the plan cover?) Is there a limit on sessions?

As a social worker, I endeavor to make a strong bond with you and explore your strengths. I will hold a space for you to experience feelings that you may have been putting off or avoiding confronting. I have a calming demeanor and welcoming personality that will put you at ease. Together we can evaluate & explore any issues that may be troubling you.

Welcome to Stem Wellness! My name is Stella Stempel, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Psychologist. In over 10 years of private practice, I worked with individuals, couples, and families. My approach is consistent, incremental change coupled with healthy thoughts that leads to a more satisfying life. Changing the way we act affects the way we feel and the way we view ourselves. When working with me, you are guided towards intentional living and healthy thought processes.

As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with dual certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Practice, I provide compassionate, holistic care for both mental and physical well-being. With over 18 years of experience, I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space for you to share your story. Whether you’re facing stress, anxiety, or depression, I’m here to guide you toward a healthier, balanced life. Let’s work together toward the life you deserve.