Marlene Weisel, LPC

Q&A

What inspired you to become a therapist?

My personal experiences allowed me to witness the impact that trauma, addiction, and mental illness in families can have on one's development. These experiences influenced my desire to not only understand others' stories with genuine empathy, validation, and compassion, but to also to provide hope through problem solving strategies. I am passionate about empowering patients to make useful changes so that they can live more peacefully. My greatest joy of being a therapist is providing a comfortable space for patients to be vulnerable, to ensure they feel dignified, and to witness them grow on their recovery journey.

What do you feel are your greatest strengths?

I believe my greatest strengths are: having a down to earth approach, which includes a sense of humor whenever appropriate; the ability to motivate clients with strengths based strategies; empathizing and validating clients with genuine compassion; offering a safe and comfortable environment for clients to be their authentic selves; striving to empower clients by building on their strengths and providing psychoeducation; encouraging clients to spread their wings outside of therapy because this is the end game.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

Clients can expect to not only be listened to, but also understood. Additionally, they will take away that I have the utmost respect those who take the risk to engage in therapy, as I whole heartedly understand how scary it can be. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership that I value deeply. Most importantly, I strive to instill hope and empowerment in clients so they can find peace in their recovery.

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Background

• Licensed in: Connecticut, New Jersey
• Certifications: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness
• Graduate Education: John Jay College of Criminal Justice