Brianna Linares

I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University and my Master in Clinical Psychology with a concentration on Child and Adolescent Mental Health from Montclair State University. Throughout my time in graduate school, I performed empirical research studies on the connection between spatial- and social- perspective-taking and the impact on human empathy; developed a study abroad program curriculum for undergraduate-level students working with sex workers in Sonagachi, India; and aided in developing a measure for current social work students to assess competence in working with survivors of abuse and trauma. I am experienced in both the community mental health and private practice sectors working with young adult and adult populations.

Alongside my professional identity, I also identify as a yogi, a trauma survivor, and a client in therapy, and have years of experience in individual talk therapy treatment. The interventions utilized within my practice space are ones that I have a deeply intimate connection to and have learned through my own personal journey.

Each of us exists in the world with a complexity and story exclusively our own. Through an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy, I offer you the opportunity to explore the parts of your story unique to your identity, develop and nurture self-compassion, and integrate those parts into the fullness of your human experience. At the heart of my work, I strive to create an empathic and safe environment that fully allows you to show up with vulnerability and honesty as your authentic self.

I use aspects of insight-oriented therapy, somatic awareness, and interpersonal psychotherapy with a trauma-informed approach to aid you in understanding the impact of previous life circumstances on your present decisions, relationships, and overall well-being. I am a firm believer in honoring the mind-body-spirit connection.

I have experience working with young adult and adult populations. I specialize in the areas of childhood trauma, emotional abuse/neglect, and relationships, which may show up in adulthood as feelings of shame, difficulty with vulnerability, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, mistrust with others, and problems in interpersonal relationships.

A safe, genuine, and collaborative partnership are the foundational building blocks of a successful therapeutic relationship and a catalyst for our work together. I strive to create a warm and empathic environment for you to feel comfortable showing up to each session as yourself.