Monica Costantino, LCSW

Therapist

CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER IN NYC

As an integrative psychotherapist, I’m immensely passionate about creating a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore the deepest parts of themselves. Given our inherently complex nature as humans, I mindfully tailor my practice to meet the unique needs of every individual regardless of their situation. I utilize a trauma-informed, psychodynamic approach while integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help clients develop insight, build upon strengths, and break free from old patterns. Additionally, through the use of various somatic practices, I aim to strengthen clients’ mind-body connection and facilitate a holistic healing experience overall.

Though growth and transformation aren’t always easy, they often illuminate our potential and enable us to step into our power. I’m committed to working collaboratively with every client, placing them at the center of the therapeutic process and empowering them to take an active role in their healing. The opportunity to support others through this journey and guide them toward a life of freedom, fulfillment, and authenticity is an honor.

SPECIALIZATIONS

Relational Issues and Attachment Wounds

Relationships can be profoundly impactful given that they are at the heart of the human experience. Most of the foundational aspects of our lives are shaped by our social world, affecting the ways in which we relate to others, view ourselves, and process emotions. By establishing a strong connection with my clients, I utilize a relational framework to help them explore their attachment patterns and overcome barriers to communication, trust, boundary-setting and more. In developing a deeper level of self-awareness and adopting new ways of approaching relationships, individuals can strengthen their sense of self, experience greater stability, and significantly improve their overall wellbeing.

Trauma and EMDR

Due to the long term impact of certain experiences, I incorporate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) into my practice to help free clients from cycles of distress. With the ability to enhance the body’s natural healing mechanisms, EMDR allows us to process mental, emotional, and physiological information on a deeper level than with traditional talk therapy alone. As a result, clients can be relieved of the painful baggage they have been carrying and truly begin to integrate.

OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is extremely distressing and often leads to exhausting ways of functioning. I utilize Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help clients reduce their anxiety and break free from the mental and behavioral thought patterns that occur as a result.  This modality assists clients in moving past cyclical responses that don’t serve them and supports them developing the lasting coping skills they need to manage their symptoms effectively and take back control of their lives. 

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Envision Academy - EMDRIA-Approved Basic EMDR Training

The William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology: Intensive Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Training

PESI - Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills

New York University - Masters in Social Work (MSW)