A Brief Introduction to Rosie Pettway, LCSW My social work career began long before I actually earned the degree. It began during my transition from corporate paralegal to elementary substitute teacher in the NYC Public School System. Teaching had placed me in a position to witness firsthand the deep emotional needs of children, which were being neglected and unmet by a system that promised nurturance, support and protection. I noticed the absence of much needed school based social workers. There was only one assigned to that particular school and she was overburdened with duties related to IEP’s for those children identified as having special educational needs. Coupled with (1) my desire to bridge the gap between strengthening mental health resources to children/families/teachers and (2) the physical and emotional trauma related to 911, I knew my path would lead me to becoming a clinical social worker. A total revelation to me! With my heart leading, I applied for social work school the next year and was accepted for the term beginning August 2002. In much the same way I felt called to the field of social work, I also felt called to working with the aging. As I sat next to the chairs of patients receiving their dialysis treatments, I heard stories similar to the ones I’d heard in my work with children – histories of unacknowledged, unresolved trauma they’d been carrying/dragging across the lifespan: generalized anxiety and fear, immigration status concerns, systemic racism, sexual orientation, physical violence, teenage pregnancies, forced marriages, incest/rape/sexual abuse, partner violence, common feelings of unworthiness – unwanted and unloved, and stigmas related to learning disorders and mental health diagnoses. The main difference between the two populations is that the aging adults had carried their burdens and distress over a much longer period. Over lifetimes, and now many are finding themselves existing in a society where their needs are undervalued, thus unprotected. It is my belief that within each of us resides an inner child, still longing for that never received attention (to be seen, to be heard), and still acting out to his/her own self-detriment, often manifesting chronic pain, illness and disease. Armed with this knowledge and now an older person myself, this presents an opportunity for me to participate and assist in the totality of healing for this population – mentally, emotionally and physically, including the child within, bringing unity, integration, stability and peace with Self-Love as the overarching goal. I began my social work career working directly with the youth; and in working with the adult aging population, I continue to touch the youth. For me, this is the best of both worlds. In this, I am fully grateful and satisfied.

Pause, take a deep breath, and thank yourself for taking the next step in your journey. It takes strength to recognize vulnerability and reach out for support; that is not always easy. Know that you are not alone. I am a licensed mental health counselor with three years of clinical experience. I have helped children, adults, and couples navigate their way through codependency, family problems, different mood disorders (anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder), eating and food related issues, self-esteem and self-love journeys, and so much more. People have described me as nonjudemental, authentic, insightful, and compassionate. I use an eclectic mix of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness based counseling through a client- centered holistic lens. It takes courage to seek help. Together, we will explore your strengths and concerns, and develop a plan to help you move forward.

My passion is helping hurting people regain their lives, sense of direction, and wellness. I assist clients in discovering the roots of their present-day issues and work to foster healthy self-perceptions and relationships. When people experience trauma, pain, or mental illness in their lives, it can feel difficult to cope, let alone function. My path to becoming a psychologist was a clear one for me; I always had a desire to help people in distress. If someone was upset, I seemed to know it (even without a word) and wanted to do something. I worked as a professor for about seven years early on in my career but preferred working one-on-one with people in private practice. Starting counseling can be challenging. Talking about trauma, flaws, and imperfections is sometimes not what we want to do. However, when we've been hurt by people and circumstances, we need someone to talk to. I believe counseling is a wonderful place for people to finally work through issues and problems that have been bothering them. I am nonjudgmental and feel comfortable letting a client lead in sessions if we are making good progress. I am a stickler for confidentiality because, without that, no one would want to come to therapy. I focus on creating a meaningful and safe working relationship where clients can talk about their history as well as what is going on in the moment. I take an eclectic approach depending on the reasons for referral. I offer EMDR as one modality for treating trauma, and also have experience in providing Christian counseling.

Therapy is essential because it provides the safest space for us to be our most authentic self. Therapy allows us to speak our unapologetic truth without fear of judgement by family and friends. Think about this.. Most people have had experiences/feelings that are connected to shame and guilt? Do we run to family and friends to share these experiences/feelings? Those of us that answer no should understand how these repressed thoughts/feelings manifest in our lives and this is where therapy comes in! Many people misunderstand the importance of having a Therapist. A lot of people feel like they can deal with life's challenge's on their own. While self determination is great it does not allow for authentic revelations. Self determination in this sense is equivalent to cross examining yourself on the witness stand. Think about it...are we truly capable of asking ourselves the tough questions? Do we have the insight to go deep and connect past experiences to current events? Can we say to ourselves hmmm... I just connected my past trauma to the manifestation of some of my problematic behavior? If you have that level of insight then that is great however if you are among the many that cannot then please allow yourself the opportunity to benefit from therapy. Therapy can help you discover some revelations that may change your life! Using Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness I will help you connect the dots. I will help you understand your emotional cycle (experiences, feelings, behaviors and consequences. I will help you identify your triggers and determine what peace of mind looks like for you. Using S.M.A.R.T goals will help us set goals that can be tracked and measured so you can see your success in real time. Your success is my success! In closing.. As we get older the expectation is that we can "just deal with it" but the reality is this...Dealing with certain feelings and emotions is not that easy to do alone. Choosing to have a Therapist in your life is the best way to "just deal with it" So let's get started! Hope to hear from you soon! Chamika Barrant

Hello, I am licensed in Pennsylvania and New York with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with ADHD & ADD, stress and anxiety, depression, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & couples. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

I am licensed in New York State with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in New York with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

My approach is psychodynamic and other approaches, it depends on the client and what is needed. Each individual is unique as well as their issues. I have worked with substance abuse for several years, familiar with Alcoholics Anonymous and addictions. Worked for many years dealing with anxiety and depression. My approach depends on what the dynamics are within each unique situation. I'm a Christian but also respect other peoples choices.

I am licensed in New York with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with career difficulties & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am a licensed psychotherapist with 7 + years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with life changes , motivation, self esteem & confidence building. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

It’s important for you to know I take your concerns very seriously. I am passionate about the work I do. I am motivated toward helping others see their strengths and potential. I work to help others work through problem areas they encounter by gaining awareness, insight, and building coping skills in order to bring about positive changes in their lives. I have worked in the field of Social Work for close to 30 years. I have worked with families, substance addiction, and mental health. For the past 26 years, I have worked in mental health in psychiatric departments in municipal hospitals and state psychiatric hospitals. For the past 20 years, in addition, I have operated a private practice. It’s important to meet individuals where they are with the problems they bring. Just to let you know a little about my qualifications. I earned a master’s degree in social work. I completed post graduate work in psychotherapy. I am certified in psychoanalytic psychotherapist. I have completed CASAC educational credits, Motivational Interviewing, and Modern Group Leadership. I am empathic. And, I am an active listener. I strive to be creative in my treatment approach to deliver the best possible treatment so as to bring about the best possible outcome.

I am licensed in New York with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.