Lydia Kernan

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Albany. I have a background in substance abuse counseling having worked at an inpatient rehabilitation facility from 2004 until 2011. In 2011 I began working with college students in the Counseling Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. In the fall of 2018, I joined the Vassar College Counseling Service. I have also worked in the Boston College Counseling Service during the 24/25 academic year. I enjoy working one on one with clients as well as in groups and I offer weekend hours.

My approach involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy strategies to help clients understand and cope with symptoms. By challenging thoughts, feelings and behaviors clients learn to take new perspectives that leave the door open for healthy, positive changes. I also have a strong background in motivation enhancement strategies, mindfulness-based CBT and Internal Family Systems work. I also recently completed a masters in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Clinical interests include depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment, grief work, identity as well as relationship issues.

My hope is that clients will find a safe and protected space to be curious about their internal emotional experience. I aim to validate and affirm as well as provide new perspectives, so that clients feel able to make meaningful change.