Tanya Starker

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York with over 22 years of experience. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work and a BA from Clark University. My path has been shaped by deep, purposeful work in the child welfare system, providing and supervising therapy in homes, communities, offices, and now through telehealth. I’ve also spent 15+ years teaching online as an adjunct college instructor, connecting with students balancing education, work, and life.

Throughout my career, I’ve supported children, adolescents, adults, and families through a wide range of challenges: trauma, emotional dysregulation, abuse and neglect, behavioral struggles, relationship conflict, and diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and others. If any of these experiences resonate with you or someone you love, know that you're not alone, and that meaningful change is possible.

I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Attachment, Self-Regulation and Competency (ARC), mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, narrative therapy, and play therapy. Above all, I believe healing begins by listening deeply, honoring your strengths, and tailoring treatment to who you are, not just what you’ve been through.

I work with children, teens, adults, and families who may be feeling overwhelmed by stress, weighed down by the past, or uncertain about the future. My approach is trauma-informed, strengths-based, mindful, person-centered, and grounded in the belief that healing isn’t just possible, it’s transformative.

In our work together, you can expect:

· Support in managing anxiety, stress, or emotional overwhelm

· Tools for navigating family or relationship dynamics

· Space to process grief, trauma, or life transitions

· Guidance in building self-awareness, confidence, and inner calm

· A healing relationship built on trust, respect, and curiosity

No matter your age or background, my role is to walk alongside you—helping you reconnect with your strengths, clarify your goals, and move forward with greater ease and intention.

I offer virtual therapy for teens, adults, and families across New York. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just need a space to be heard, you’re welcome here. Let’s connect and see how I can support you!