Grief counselors and therapists in Southbury, CT

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?

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.

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.

I am a licensed psychologist with over 25 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, college students and parents. I completed my predoctoral training at The Children's Hospital Boston/Harvard Medical School.

Specialties: anxiety disorders including OCD, panic, phobias, separation anxiety, social anxiety, mood disorders, and parenting anxiety.

Special expertise: transition from college to work world; confidence building in adolescents and young adults; handling emotions, relationships, change, stress in college students.

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.

I am an incredibly empathetic therapist who's joy is to provide a safe space to my clients. I utilize a variety of counseling theories in order to provide services. I am engaging and inquisitive and enjoy invoking humor within the sessions when appropriate.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. If someone in your life makes you feel guilty, confused, unloved, or stressed, I'm here to support you.

I work with courageous people healing from the trauma of toxic relationships and I assist them in developing assertive communication skills & unlocking the power behind setting healthy boundaries. Together, we can reclaim your self-worth and build a life filled with empowerment and resilience.