About
JENNIFER CARLSON, LCSW, MSEd, SEP
“Trauma is not what happens to us, but what we hold inside in the absence of an empathetic witness.” ~Peter Levine
Welcome to a space of transformation, healing, and profound self-discovery. As a dedicated therapist, I am deeply committed to guiding individuals and couples through the intricate journey of emotional and psychological healing. My approach is centered on creating a compassionate and secure environment where you can explore the depths of your feelings, challenges, and aspirations.
MY THERAPEUTIC
APPROACH
Welcome to a space of transformation, healing, and profound self-discovery. As a dedicated therapist, I am deeply committed to guiding individuals and couples through the intricate journey of emotional and psychological healing. My approach is centred on creating a compassionate and secure environment where you can explore the depths of your feelings, challenges, and aspirations.
I am a trauma-informed, psychodynamic therapist integrating talk therapy, mindfulness and a body-based focus in my work with individuals and couples. My approach is grounded in attachment and relational theory. Trained as a practitioner in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Somatic Experiencing (SE), as well as a trained couples and sex therapist.
Somatic Experiencing frames my understanding of the nervous system, allowing me to track and facilitate the safe release of traumas stored within the body. This process supports the body’s natural healing abilities, emphasizing balance, unity, and resilience. Additionally, my background in Jungian psychology enriches our sessions with insights into dream work and archetypes, aiding in the exploration of your inner world.
BUILDING A CONNECTION
From our very first session, my priority is to meet you where you are, whether you’re taking your first steps into therapy or returning to continue your journey. We will delve into the reasons that bring you to therapy at this moment, exploring potential goals and the types of tools, resources, and insights you wish to develop. Establishing a safe and trusting connection is key, as we set out on a path to improve your ability to manage stress and anxiety, navigate relationships, and enhance your overall sense of well-being.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
My work is driven by a firm belief in the power of attentive listening, compassionate acceptance, and the profound role our physical and emotional states play in our lives. The relationships we have with our body, mind, spirit, and others are of paramount importance. By nurturing these connections, we can unlock a deeper understanding of ourselves and foster a life marked by balance and fulfillment.I believe in the transformative power of giving and receiving love, and how our connections with others and attunement to our bodies illuminate the paths we choose. With a focus on somatic awareness, mindfulness practices, and attachment and relational-based therapy, I am here to support you in developing the tools and resources necessary to address the challenges you face today.
Education
2007-2009
Master of Social Work &
Scholarship Recipient
Silver School of Social Work
New York University
Clinically focused graduate training emphasizing trauma-informed, relational, and community-based practice. Developed advanced skills in psychosocial assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based interventions with individuals, couples, families and groups.
2004-2006
Masters in Early Childhood & Teaching Special Education, New York City Teaching Fellow & AmeriCore Recipient
City University of New York
Completed graduate training in child development and inclusive education while serving as a New York City Teaching Fellow in high-need school communities. Developed skills in differentiated instruction, IEP implementation, and supporting children with diverse developmental and behavioral needs. This work deepened my understanding of attachment, family systems, and early relational trauma, ultimately guiding my transition into a clinical therapy career.
The New School/School of Performing Arts, School of Drama— 1997-1998 — New York, NY - Studied at MFA in Acting
Salisbury University/College of Arts & Science— BA, 1993-1995 — Major in Philosophy; Minors in Psychology and Theatre Arts
ONGOING POST GRADUATE TRAINING
STEPHEN MITCHELL CENTER FOR RELATIONAL STUDIES, NEW YORK, NY-- 2011-2014Certificate of Completion 3 year Relational and Interpersonal Psychoanalytic Clinical Theory Relational Psychoanalytic Track
ACKERMAN INSTIUTUE FOR THE FAMILY, & INTERNATINOAL CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE IN EMOTIONALLY FOCUSED (EFT), NEW YORK, NY-- 2013Certificate of Completion of 32 hours Externship Program w/ Sue Johnson & George Faller
SOMATIC EXPERENCING INTERNATIONAL (SEI)- SE TRAINING, NEW YORK, NY — 2015-2017Competed Beginner I, II, III SE training w/Nancy Napier and Maureen Gallagher; Intermediate I, II, III SE training with Dave Berger & Debra ClydesdaleI
INTEGRATIVE TRAUMA PROGRAM OF THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR THE PSYCHOTHERAPIES, & EMDRIA: EMDR Training, NEW YORK, NY—2019-2020Certificate of Completion of 40 hours EMDR training w/ Dr. Karen Alter-Reid & Dr. Sarah St. Onge