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, yet again, things did not turn out as you had hoped?
I work with individuals who are struggling in all types of relationships:
> marital and partnership
> parent and adult child
> friendship and companionship
> sibling
> in-law and extended family
A relationship pattern is often connected to a previous experience that goes back to young adulthood, adolescence, or even childhood. 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.
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 want and need and break unhealthy patterns.
As a psychotherapist in private practice, I work with you to tailor your treatment to meet your specific goals which could mean simply being heard and seen as a person of worth and potential.
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."d
- 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 drained, 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 :
* Lack of verbal engagement with a parent
* Lack of physical affection
* No parental interest in a child's hobbies and natural talents
* No parental support for a child's academic performance
Some part of you may feel attracted to individuals who seem like they are there are for you, however, do not come through when you truly need them. Another part of you may feel resentful toward the other person and anxious when your needs are not met. My professional training can help you to better understand this conflict and to create more peace and happiness in your relationships.
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. You may have no one in your life who is able or willing to accept your emotions. This can make symptoms of anxiety, depression, and overwhelm even worse.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT I REMAIN OPEN TO YOUR INPUT and to periodically check in with you throughout treatment to know how our relationship is progressing. Also, to know if there is anything specific you need from me in order for you 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 or witnessed abuse and neglect as a child. Individuals who are in a relationship with someone struggling with mental illness or are 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