Pamela Castelli, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Deer Park, New York
VerifiedTelehealth Available
My Approach to Therapy
Does your life seem to be repeating a pattern that, despite how optimistic and certain you feel at the start of a relationship, ends up causing you to feel disappointed, frustrated, and even surprised that, again, things did not turn out as you had hoped?
This pattern may be connected to a previous experience that extends back to young adulthood, adolescence, or even childhood. You may have unfinished business that is held within your brain and your physical body as an emotional wound. You dont even have to be conscious of it for the past experience to influence the choices you make in the present.
I am a trauma-trained psychotherapist, certified in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), which is an approach that not only treats the symptoms of an emotional wound but enables you to heal it and to put the past experience where it belongs- in the past. The word 'trauma' may sound frightening andor confusing. It actually comes from the Greek term, trauma, and means 'wound.' Therefore, my training helps to treat and heal your emotional wounds. With help from a mental health professional, you can become more conscious of these wounds, and with consciousness comes power- the ability to make healthy choices that serve you in the best way.
I don't tell you what you should or should not be doing in your life. I do offer a safe space free of judgement so that you can explore what you truly wantneed and break unhealthy patterns.
As a psychotherapist in private practice, I work with you to tailor your treatment to meet your individual goals. Together, we will create new and healthier relationship patterns that bring joy and fulfillment as you move forward on your journey!
"The only journey is the one within."
- Rainer Maria Rilka
My Practice & Services
My office is a PEACEFUL, EMOTIONALLY SAFE, AND SACRED SPACE that supports our work together. There is plenty of parking in a private lot, spacious waiting area, and restrooms. I am knowledgeable of HIPAA guidelines and practice accordingly. When emailing, please include a contact number so that I may reach out to you to know what you are specifically looking for in a therapist.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
I specialize in the treatment of CODEPENDENCY. Our work together will offer practical guidance to help you recognize when it is appropriate to allow others to take responsibility for their own struggles. I work with clients who are interested in learning effective communication skills, self-relaxation techniques, and healthier decision-making tools. I have hands-on knowledge and insight into the principles of Al-Anon Family Groups and other twelve-step programs.
If you feel you are 'stuck' in an unhealthy relationship pattern that leaves you feeling emotionally unfulfilled, you may have experienced a form of childhood trauma that involved verbal physical abuse and or emotional neglect. Emotional neglect is, often, harder to recognize than abuse because it involves what was NOT THERE in childhood. EMOTIONAL NEGLECT CAN INCLUDE A LACK OF :
*Verbal engagement with a parent
*Physical affection
*Parental interest in a child's hobbies and natural talents
*Parental support for a child's academic performance
Some part of you may feel attracted to individuals who are emotionally unavailable and another part of you may feel resentful and anxious when your needs are not met. This may represent a familiar pattern that originated in childhood. My training in 'parts work' can help you to understand, accept, and heal those parts.
Importance of the Client-Therapist Alliance
I practice a person-centered approach, believing that the relationship between the therapist and client is the basis for successful treatment. A working relationship takes time and requires some faith in the therapy process. I TAKE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, ALWAYS REMAINING ALONGSIDE, for support, encouragement, guidance, and knowledge if you wish it. It is NOT my job to tell you what your life should look like. It IS my job to ask questions and offer input that may help to bring your needs and wants to the surface and then explore how to fulfill them. I recognize that it can be extremely helpful for the therapist to just be present and 'bear witness' to someone else's emotional pain. For many of us, the lack of other people in our lives who are able willing to share difficult feelings can cause symptoms of anxiety, depression, and overwhelm.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT I REMAIN OPEN TO YOUR INPUT and to periodically check in with you throughout treatment to know how the relationship is progressing and if there is anything specific that you need from me in order to reach your goals..
Expertise & Specialties
Age Groups I Work With
Adults
Groups I Work With
Individuals who: were caretakers for their siblings as a child, experienced andor witnessed abuse and neglect as a child. Individuals who arewere in a relationship with someone struggling with mental illness or were in a relationship with someone who overuses alcohol or substances.
Therapy Services & Specialties
Concerns & Challenges Addressed
AbandonmentAdjusting to Change / Life TransitionsAnxietyAttachment IssuesCodependency / DependencyCommunication ProblemsDepressionEmotional Overwhelm
Therapeutic Approaches & Evidence-Based Methods
BreathworkCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)DreamworkEmotional Freedom TechniqueEye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)Guided Therapeutic ImageryIntegration of different therapy modelsMindfulness-Based Interventions
Industries & Communities
First Responder/Medical Professionals