Dr. Patricia De Barbieri

Dr. Patricia De Barbieri is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 40+ years of experience as both a therapist and professor training other mental health practitioners. During the course of my career I have specialized in the prevention, identification and treatment of eating disorders and have studied with some of the most outstanding therapists and educators in the fields of eating disorders, mental health and human development.

My early background is in child development and family relations, working in both preschool and elementary school settings. My interest in human development eventually led me to earn a doctorate in adult development and adult learning at Teachers College, Columbia University with a research focus on learning in recovery from Bulimia. I have worked as a counselor and director of a student mental health counseling center at two Connecticut Universities and Professor and Chair of various mental health therapy programs. I've worked with clients on a range of issues; phobias, anxiety, eating disorders, body image, self esteem, relationships, gender identity, academic and career decisions and family relationships.

It is my belief that it is important for me to be genuine and present in a counseling relationship to affirm that the work we do together is worth the risk and the effort you are taking. I have a genuine interest in people and their stories. I’d be interested in learning about your story and helping you through whatever life situation you’re struggling with at the moment. Over the course of my career, I have developed a deep respect for the human psyche and the traumas we all can endure and still manage to grow and move forward in our lives. Talking with a professional counselor is worth the risk, let's talk.

I have experience working with individuals of all ages. My approach is grounded in Person Centered Theory and includes Cognitive Behavioral, Behavioral and Narrative Therapies. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first couple of months that is sustained thereafter. During our initial sessions, we will delve into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you to get your life back. Clients have described me as providing a Safe, Non-Judgmental, and Comfortable Environment where they feel heard. They find me to be Insightful, Helpful, Knowledgeable, Caring and a Good Listener.

I'll listen to what your concerns are and we can determine, together, a plan for me to help you to become more comfortable with whatever is currently going on in your life and causing you pain. I often offer ideas for things you can do to help you to better understand what you are feeling. I like to be available through messages on the Headway platform to offer support or for you to contact me if needed.