Carley Bernardo, LCSW

My approach involves exploring the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I will help you explore and process the life experiences that have shaped how you perceive yourself, others, and the world. Together, we will work toward identifying and restructuring harmful thought patterns and core beliefs that may be causing distress.

My therapy style is warm, direct, and compassionate, combining trauma-informed care with a focus on anxiety, guilt, shame, and negative core beliefs. I help patients build insight and resilience by addressing difficult emotions with honesty and empathy (at times using humor to create connection and ease when appropriate). I aim to create a therapeutic environment based on trust, mutual respect, and collaboration. I believe in empowering my patients and will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your goals.

Patients would describe me as direct and straightforward while still maintaining warmth and compassion. I use humor when appropriate to create a sense of connection and to make difficult topics feel more approachable. They also appreciate that I frequently provide psychoeducation to explain the “why” behind thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors, which helps them better understand their experiences.

Patients often express a strong sense of pride in the progress they’ve made and the personal growth they’ve experienced. As well, they have reported feeling more grounded, confident, and self-compassionate. They often note that the struggles that once felt overwhelming no longer define or control their lives. If this sounds like what you are looking for, please reach out to schedule an intake session!