Douglas Foresta

I help adults and couples understand the patterns beneath anxiety, panic, anger, compulsive behaviors, addiction and recovery concerns, and relationship conflict so they can respond differently and feel more connected.

I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families create meaningful change. My background includes private practice, leadership in online therapy, and teaching at Smith College and Springfield College. I have a particular interest in helping people recognize how past trauma may be shaping their emotional reactions, relationships, and sense of self—and begin building a life that is no longer defined by what happened to them.

As both a therapist and a playwright, I have always been deeply interested in the stories people carry. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in narrative therapy. I believe that you are not the problem—the problem is the problem—and therapy can help you separate yourself from the patterns that have been defining your life. Together, we’ll recognize the resilience you already possess and create a story that better reflects who you are and how you want to live.

In our first session, you can expect a warm, relaxed conversation about what brought you to therapy and what you hope will change. I’ll ask questions to understand your experiences, relationships, strengths, and the patterns that may be keeping you stuck; but you won’t be pressured to share anything before you’re ready. We’ll begin identifying your goals and discuss how we can work together. My hope is that you leave feeling heard, understood, and clearer about the next step forward.