Hi, I'm Gail!
I know this isn’t easy for you. Whether you are here because your child is struggling, you are struggling, or you need change, support, and direction … You don't have to struggle alone. This is the bravest thing you can do and I’m grateful you’re here. I can't change where you started, but I can help you gain the freedom to decide where you finish.
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You can do this. We can do this together.
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My goal is to help everyone that comes into their session feel comfortable and safe. I bring not only my over 20 years of experience, but my warm, calming, enthusiastic, creative, often silly, and funny (I think) personality. This is a friendly way to therapy.
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While I specialize in working with young children and women, I welcome all pronouns. When working with children, I use a non-threatening, fun, laid-back approach with games, crafts, and play, which is often as fun for me as it is for them. I work with your family collaboratively and I can help you parent when you feel at a loss.
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When working with anyone who identifies as a woman, I honor and recognize the unique needs and struggles faced, and just how darn hard it is to truly take care of ourselves. We work together to identify what you have control over, be mindful of where your energy goes, and how to feel empowered and strong. I am also a perinatal and postpartum specialist and can help you climb out of the darkness. You are not alone and there is help.
I am dedicated to working inclusively with people from all backgrounds. I pride myself on my hard work, compassion, and respect the life and the dignity of all those who seek my support. I seek to understand and to empower. I strive to provide the support, trust and guidance that each individual or family hopes for when they need it. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and a neurodiversity-affirming therapist. Just come as you are and breathe.
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Of course, none of this is this simple, but we will take one step at a time. I love what I do and would be honored to be a part of your journey.
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When I am not doing therapy, you will find me running marathons (therapists need therapy too) or carpooling my own 2 energetic children, or taking care of the 3 (dog, guinea pig, rabbit) animals in my house. I'm a regular HGTV viewer and I am still searching for the best-chopped salad in the area.
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If you are interested in my clinical stuff, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in private practice, teletherapy, school, and community-based settings. I am a mental health and parenting consultant for local organizations, and I sit on numerous child and family-centered committees. I consider myself a Strengths-Based, Solution-Focused Therapist and I often utilize a Cognitive-Behavioral Approach as well as Play. But, I see people as dynamic individuals and I pride myself in being flexible across various modalities I’m comfortable with, to suit your needs.
Professional Memberships:
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- National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
- Postpartum Support International (PSI)
- GLMA-Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ Equality
- International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
Education and Licensure:
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- University of Massachusets, Amherst; Bachelor of Arts (BA) Psychology
- California State University Long Beach; Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker, New York State 090537
Certificates and Advanced Training:
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- 2022 Forensic Social Work Certificate (NOFC)
Meet the Team
Meet Denise Irizarry, LMSW; Jillian Gallo, LMSW; and Tenesha Senior, LMSW.
Each of them brings a unique light and a deep kindness and understanding. Our goal is always to provide a safe space and to continue to meet the needs of the community as best we can.
This is a friendly way to therapy. 😊
Denise
Denise describes herself as thoughtful, empathetic and non-judgemental. “I’m passionate about working with children and teens. I love arts and crafts. Shopping and therapy are good for the soul.”
Jillian
Jillian describes herself as diligent, empathetic and supportive. “I’ve been working with adolescents for almost 10 years, meeting them where they are so they can reach their full potential.”
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Tenesha
Tenesha describes herself as easygoing, non-judgemental, and patient. “I love reading on the beach and just having fun.”
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