Danielle Laino, LAC

I aim to be a trusted collaborator in the therapeutic process that can assist you in understanding past traumas and relationship dynamics that are affecting your current mental health and relationships. Beyond understanding contributing factors, I also focus on the present and work with my clients to find relief, inner peace and an internal sense of empowerment. 

Grounded in psychodynamic, trauma-informed and mindfulness approaches, my objective is to address the needs that you have that underlie your current distress/symptoms and to begin to look at life differently and interact with life in a way that feels good to you. You will also learn to see themes in behavioral patterns and befriend difficult emotions or experiences as you build a sense of confidence, acceptance and self-compassion along the way. 

I specialize in working with young adults and adults who have experienced interpersonal trauma, including, but not limited to, narcissistic abuse, childhood abuse/neglect, have or have had a relationship with an emotionally immature person and who desire to feel more connected in their relationships now. In addition, I also focus on treating anger/irritability/internal agitation, anxiety and perfectionism, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), adjustment to life events (including grief), body image concerns, disordered eating, depression and the highly sensitive person (HSP).

Finally, I have a special interest in the specific intersection of mental health and diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. Not only is family estrangement very common, but the transgender community is also relatively small. This can leave a person feeling isolated and challenged while establishing an identity. Oftentimes, it is difficult to end a relationship that is no longer working due to fears of increased isolation (i.e. common friend groups). The challenges that accompany gender identity (from picking pronouns, dealing with microaggressions, to the journey of transitioning) can compound an already in flux foundation. It can be very challenging to deal with microaggressions or explore and express yourself when you are in the midst of figuring everything out yourself. I identify as an advocate and strive to offer resources and a safe place for the trans and non-binary community and for people who wish to explore their sexuality.  

I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Columbia University and I look forward to working together.