Obsessive-compulsive disorder therapists & psychiatrists in West Hartford, CT

Sometimes life is hard...and sometimes, the word “hard” doesn't begin to cover it.

You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, lost, or simply tired of feeling the way you do. Maybe you know that experiences from your past are still affecting you today, or you find yourself repeating patterns you understand but can't seem to change. Other times, you may not know exactly what's wrong...you just know that something isn't working anymore.

Over the years, I've helped adults heal unresolved wounds from childhood, develop greater self-awareness and self-esteem, improve relationships, and make life-enhancing changes that allow them to feel more connected to themselves and the lives they want to live. I work with people navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and the everyday challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed.

I believe we all have the ability to grow and make meaningful changes in our lives. Sometimes we just need some help finding our strengths and figuring out what we need now.

Each of us has our own unique story and experiences. It's a privilege when someone chooses to share their story with me, and I'll meet you wherever you are in yours.

**Please note: I may have availability beyond what is currently shown on my calendar. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly to schedule a consultation call: [email protected] :)

Most people arrive at therapy carrying something they've never said out loud. My job is to make saying it possible by being someone worth trusting with it.

I've been a practicing counselor for over a decade. I also teach and supervise the next generation of therapists, which keeps me sharp and current. But experience and credentials aren't what makes the work good. What makes therapy work is that I'm a real person in the room with you: direct when that helps, quiet when that helps more. I will never ask you to do something I'm not willing to do myself.

My education isn't limited to my degrees. My clients have taught me more about resilience, compassion, and what it means to live fully than any program did. I hold that as sacred, and I take you as seriously as I take that.

Many people turn to psychotherapy or counseling for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, and painful relationship patterns, or simply because they feel something is missing from life. At times, we may lack the words to describe our struggles or suffering. By gaining insight into past relationships and experiences, many people begin to make progress toward overcoming these difficulties, becoming more effective in both their work and their personal lives. I am a licensed clinician with 20 years of experience helping individuals achieve a more fulfilling life.

I understand that the decision to seek help for mental health needs can be a nerve-racking and scary process. When it comes to patient care, I am most passionate about the preservation of dignity and making my patients feel seen. I meet fear or nervousness with acceptance, encouragement, and knowledge.

When anxiety, depression, substance use, or relationship problems start affecting your day-to-day life, it can be hard to know where to begin or how to make things different. I work with individuals, couples, and families who want to break unhelpful patterns, work through difficult experiences, and build healthier ways of coping and connecting. With more than 20 years of experience in mental health, I bring a personalized approach to therapy that recognizes your unique circumstances and focuses on helping you make meaningful, lasting changes.

Hi, I’m Nikki — owner of Dragonfly Haven Wellness LCSW PLLC. I’m looking forward to starting our work together.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker with a Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University, earned in 2003. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of supporting children, teens, adults, and families through life’s challenges in both outpatient and school-based mental health settings.

I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, supported, and genuinely understood. My approach is warm and collaborative, while also helping to point out connections to support your growth. I draw from a blend of psychodynamic therapy, relational approaches, CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and Encompass co-occurring treatment to help clients build insight, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful change.

I’ve recently completed a certified integrative mental health provider course and somatic technique training to focus more on body-based approaches alongside traditional talk therapy to support healing as a whole-person process.

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to do it alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable showing up exactly as you are and knowing that I am here to work alongside you as you move towards change.

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.