Jodi Merlino

I combine CBT with other modalities in every session. Cognitive challenging and awareness of how to reframe our thinking can be a very helpful tool. Are the thoughts you are having helpful or harmful? How do your thoughts effect your actions?

Many of my clients have struggled with anxiety and panic. Its important to identify what your symptoms are, why, and when you are having them. We work on identifying when they have happened in the past as well to explore triggers. Understanding the connection of your thoughts to your physical reaction is important. We can work to reframe your thoughts, as well as ways to relax your body when triggered. Making the most of your awareness of your present sense of self through grounding techniques is also helpful.

I have been a medical social worker for over 15 years after the first wave of the pandemic I felt my experience with patients and families in a hospital setting would helpful to people struggling with grief and loss due to covid and other illnesses. In the past I have also worked with people struggling with anxiety, depression, pain management and trauma related stress.

I utilize DBT and mindfulness practices in combination with other modalities in every session.

Take the first step meet a therapist, see if you are comfortable. If you are comfortable take the next step and begin the process, you can always change your mind or find another approach if needed. There is a good fit for everyone and if you feel like you need support it is available to you.

Trauma processing is important when treating post traumatic stress as well as when we have loss. Our memories hold gaps and we often fill those gaps with hidesight information or fears. In session we can revisit an event, explore what you have been through. We apply relaxation, safety, and support while discussing your events. The goal is to acknowledge the trauma was valid and true, as well as find the ability to reduce your bodies reaction to it, reduce negative feelings associated with it, and the discomfort connected to it.

I work very hard to provide a non-judgemental environment, I would like you to feel free to express yourself and process your true feelings. Everyone has difficult times in their lives, sometimes we need more support than other times, it does not define who you are.

Working through grief and loss comes at the pace you need it to be. We can work through a few tasks to help you find a balance between remembering and honoring the person you lost with expanding the world you live in so you can carry them with you through your life. I will spend time talking with you about your experience to help you gain a comfortable understanding of what you have been through. We can work to identify how you are feeling and express all feelings without judgement. You may feel disconnected or isolated, angry or questioning faith, we can work to have your world make sense again. We may also work to figure out who you are now that you have had this loss and how to rebuild your identity and sense of self. Sometimes you may just need to talk about the person you miss with support and understanding that this is a very difficult process that you are going through.

I can provide a virtual session through HIPAA compliant platforms such as google meet, zoom, or doxy.