Inner Criticism & Self-Worth

Intense self-criticism, harsh inner judgment, feelings of worthlessness or not being "good enough," perfectionism that's exhausting and unsustainable

Persistent worry and overthinking, feeling stuck in heaviness or hopelessness, difficulty finding motivation or meaning, emotional overwhelm or shutdown

Trauma & Its Lasting Effects

Childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect, family-of-origin wounds and attachment injuries, complex PTSD and developmental trauma, history of being bullied, single-incident traumas

Relationship Struggles

Difficulty trusting others or letting people close, repeating unfulfilling or toxic patterns in relationships, challenges with boundaries or communication, feeling disconnected from partners, peers, or family

Recent or long-standing losses that don’t seem to heal, pregnancy loss or infertility, loss of identity or life circumstances, complicated or ambiguous grief

Meet Dr. Stell

Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Trauma Specialist | Perinatal Mental Health Expert

Why I Do This Work

So many people feel profoundly alone in who they are, what they feel, and what they've been through. They carry deep shame about experiences that weren't their fault and struggle in silence, convinced something is fundamentally wrong with them.

I do this work to help challenge the shame that never should have been there in the first place. When that shame lifts, everything becomes possible.

For over a decade, I've helped people realize they're not broken or defective. They feel seen and understood often for the first time. And then, they can actually change—not just understand their patterns, but break free from them and build lives that feel authentic and fully their own.

That's why I do this work.

My Experience

For more than ten years, I've worked with clients across diverse settings—from community mental health clinics, college counseling centers, residential and inpatient treatment programs and now to private practice. I've helped clients navigate life's highs and lows, unexpected shifts, and the overwhelming emotions that can surprise us all.

My experience as a psychologist and as a fellow human being walking through this wild ride called life has taught me that people are far more resilient than they often give themselves credit for—and that with the right therapeutic approach, real change is possible even when it feels impossible.

I bring this experience to my private practice, blending my expertise in mental health with your expertise in yourself. The care you receive will be compassionate, effective, and built around who you are and what you're working toward.

Who I Work With

The clients I work best with are experiencing:

Life is full of change, and it can be hard when everything feels uncertain. During these times, something deeper is often being asked of you. Who are you now? Who are you becoming? Life transitions can bring about questions about identity, purpose, and belonging that feel just as disorienting as the change itself. If you are struggling to navigate things like the end of a relationship, graduation, divorce, a career change, a move, a new health diagnosis, becoming a parent, or questioning your life direction, therapy can help you slow down and steady the ground beneath your feet.

My Approach to Therapy

My therapy style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in real and honest conversations. I create a safe space where you can share what's truly going on without fear of judgment. I balance deep empathy and validation with thoughtful challenges that support your growth, increase your self-awareness, and help free you from unhelpful patterns.

My goal is to help you build practical coping skills while also exploring deeper insight and emotional healing. You'll learn concrete tools you can use right now to feel better—and we'll also explore the deeper "why" behind your struggles so you can create lasting change.
My perspective as a therapist is rooted in psychodynamic and attachment theory, which means I'm interested in understanding the deeper patterns, unconscious processes, and early experiences that shape how you feel and relate to yourself and others.

I draw from psychodynamic theory, CBT, DBT, ACT, mindfulness, and EMDR — choosing what fits you, not the other way around.

I'll challenge you when needed—because real change requires looking at patterns that aren't serving you. Think of it as: supportive but not enabling, compassionate but not letting you off the hook. You'll have both understanding and tools. You'll move at your pace.

Inclusive, Culturally Responsive, & Trauma-Informed Care

I provide inclusive, culturally competent, and trauma-informed care. I welcome and affirm individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, immigrants, and people of all races, ethnicities, cultures, religions, and backgrounds.

Licenses & Certifications

Licensed Clinical Psychologist:

New York, 024277
Connecticut, 4014
Colorado, PSY.0005041
California, PSY35759 
New Jersey, 35SI00808700
Florida Telehealth Certification: TPPY3312
Rhode Island: PS02447

Specialized Certifications:

Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) — Postpartum Support International
EMDRIA Certified EMDR therapist
EMDRIA approved EMDR Basic Training, 2020

Professional Memberships:

American Psychological Association (APA)
Postpartum Support International (PSI)
EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)