

Get therapy and medication management support with Aetna coverage in Hamden. Headway patients save an average of 75% on sessions while choosing from 1,483 providers, with flexible scheduling and free intake consultations available.
Welcome to Stem Wellness! My name is Stella Stempel, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Psychologist. In over 10 years of private practice, I worked with individuals, couples, and families. My approach is consistent, incremental change coupled with healthy thoughts that leads to a more satisfying life. Changing the way we act affects the way we feel and the way we view ourselves. When working with me, you are guided towards intentional living and healthy thought processes.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in private practice with an extensive background in social work across diverse settings. My work is grounded in compassion, ethical practice, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story.
I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Sacred Heart University where I received comprehensive training in clinical practice and evidence-based interventions. I have experience working with adults and older adults navigating a wide range of concerns, including dementia, anxiety, burnout, stress, and the everyday ups and downs of life. My background has equipped me to support clients with both complex clinical needs and the challenges that naturally arise across different life stages.
I am Dr. Douglas Zelisko (often affectionately referred to as "Dr. Z"), a Board-Certified Psychiatrist dedicated to holistic and integrative mental health care. My educational background includes degrees from Amherst College and St. George's University School of Medicine, followed by a Psychiatry residency at the UConn School of Medicine.
I specialize in treating adults with a wide range of issues, specifically:
My practice is unique in that I combine traditional psychiatric expertise with holistic methods to treat the "whole you"—mind, body, and spirit—rather than just addressing symptoms.
I have nearly a decade of experience in the mental health field. I combine compassion and my clinical expertise to support the clients I serve. My goal is to help clients navigate and overcome their struggles to support and help regain stability in their lives.
I value building a trusting, authentic relationship with each client. It’s important for clients to feel and recognize the growth and progress that naturally emerge through the process. I believe therapy works best when you feel heard, supported, and empowered every step of the way.
I have an engaging approach and provide a safe space for vulnerability and offer both faith and evidenced based treatment modalities.
I am empathetic, warm, and easy to talk with. I have experience supporting adults with stress, anxiety, depression, difficult relationships, grief/loss, and life transitions.



Headway makes it easy to get affordable in-network mental health care with Aetna — from finding the right therapist or psychiatrist, to understanding costs, to booking your first session.
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