Family therapy and counseling in Buffalo, NY

Starting therapy requires courage and strength even when we are in pain or dissatisfied with the way things are. It is difficult to open up to a stranger, to change the familiar ways of dealing with life and people. That is why I believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment, where we will look at recurrent patterns in your life (for example why do you choose "the same type" of partners or feel so lonely or anxious, why do you often have the "same conflicts" with your bosses or friends) and gain insight into unconscious motivations of your behavior.

I specialize in behavioral excess (misuse of substances, sex and food) and mood disorders (anxiety, depression). Because of my belief in personal freedom I try to provide accepting and safe environment where we can talk about you and your life openly.

I am bilingual (Russian/English)and have extensive training in psycholinguistics.

I am a LCSW in practice over 15 years. I believe therapy should feel like a supportive, collaborative space. I work with individuals who want to better understand themselves, build confidence, and develop tools to navigate life's challenges. My goal is to help you feel empowered, heard and supported as you move towards meaningful change.

Therapy is a collaborative journey. Together, we’ll explore the patterns in your life, uncover your strengths, and develop practical tools to help you move forward with confidence. My approach blends evidence-based methods—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care—with a deep respect for your individual story and pace.

I believe therapy works best when it’s built on trust and partnership. You bring your experiences and willingness to grow; I bring my expertise, empathy, and professional training. Together, we create a safe, supportive space where real change can happen.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My priority is to help you achieve wellbeing in your relational, emotional, and mental health. I look forward to connecting with you on your goals for therapy, and how we can achieve them together!

Find me on Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1696966

I utilize a multi-theoretical basis for all my clients. For my practice, trust, warmth and communication are the foundations of a good therapeutic relationship. I have a specialty in child/adolescent/family issues. However, I see many young adults who have issues feeling at ease and confident in their relationships and workplace. I endeavor to lift my clients out of the dark place that may be weighing them down to finding the solutions that will enable them to live freely.

Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I understand and have experienced the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals.

Bred in Milwaukee and based in Harlem, I am an award-winning advocate, educator, writer, consultant, and clinician whose work harnesses the power of community connection, emotional intimacy, and generational wellness practices to bring clients back home to themselves. I believe that cultivating intimacy with self and others is a powerful tool for personal and collective true liberation. I hold a B.A. in Afro-American Studies, with a focus on Black Women’s Studies, from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Syracuse University.