Rene Small

I am a licensed psychologist with over five years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and parents in fostering academic, social, and emotional development. I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I earned my doctoral degree in School Psychology and a master’s degree in Education from Fordham University, as well as my bachelor’s degree from Drew University. I am dedicated to empowering clients to reach their full potential.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and goal-oriented. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and respected, and I tailor treatment to each person’s unique strengths and needs. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and build effective coping skills. I also incorporate strategies such as mindfulness, emotional regulation, and behavior management when appropriate, and I involve parents and schools when working with youth. My work is rooted in empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a focus on helping clients make lasting, positive changes.

In the first session, my goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns at their own pace. I spend time getting to know each client and understanding their experiences, strengths, and what brought them to therapy. Together, we begin identifying goals and discussing what they would like to improve or work toward. I approach the session with curiosity, compassion, and collaboration so clients feel supported from the very start. By the end, we typically have a shared understanding of next steps and how we’ll move forward together.