Family therapy and counseling in Connecticut

Most of us haven’t made it through life without a few bruises. Sometimes we lose touch with ourselves along the way, shaped by what we’ve been through and the weight of those experiences.

That doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you. It means you adapted. Sometimes beautifully. Sometimes painfully. Often both.

Therapy is a space to slow down, get curious, and gently begin untangling what you’ve been carrying. Together, we can explore your story with compassion, reconnect with who you are beneath old patterns, and move toward a way of living that feels more aligned, grounded, and authentic.

I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 15 years. My professional focus is on treating individuals between the ages of 13-65 with trauma, eating disorders and mood disorders. I am an EMDRIA approved EMDR consultant and certified in EMDR therapy. I have also experience working with law enforcement officers and family members. My goal is to empower and support clients to achieve their optimum wellbeing.

I understand how exhausting it can feel to be caught in the same patterns or unsure how to help someone you care about. I offer a calm, approachable, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. We will work together at a pace that feels right for you. Reach out when you are ready to begin.

Therapy can help if... You are an adult or teen struggling with life challenges, difficulty managing emotions, behaviors or negative thoughts, lacking support or have a dysfunctional family or relationship. You are a mom or a dad experiencing depression or anxiety during pregnancy or after your child's birth.

You are feeling so overwhelmed and in pain that you can't see a way through and are considering suicide. Deciding to try therapy can be a life changing decision. Making a commitment to doing the work of therapy with the guidance and support of a therapist can lead to amazing results.

If I can help, let me know!

Hi there! You’ve already taken one of the hardest steps toward a healthier life by being here. That takes courage, and I’m glad you’re here.

I believe every person has inherent dignity, worth, and the capacity for growth. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside you as you pursue healing, hope, and meaningful change.

I earned a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Regent University School of Psychology and Counseling. My graduate training included a concentration in spirituality and was grounded in the belief, “To God alone be the glory.” That perspective continues to shape my work today. I approach counseling with humility, recognizing that healing can occur in many ways, and I am honored to use my clinical training in service to others with compassion, respect, and evidence based care.

I welcome individuals from all faiths, spiritual traditions, cultural backgrounds, and those who do not identify with a religion. Whether faith is central to your life or not, therapy will be tailored to your values, beliefs, culture, and personal goals. If you would like to incorporate spirituality into your care, I am honored to support that part of your journey.

During my clinical training, I specialized in healthy relationships, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and human trafficking. I also have extensive experience in suicide prevention, crisis intervention, behavioral health, anxiety, depression, trauma, moral injury, grief and loss, relationship concerns, neurodiversity, parenting skills, individuals with special needs and their family members, LGBTQ+ concerns, and major life transitions.

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.

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.