Whole Connection Mental Health

Jessica Townsend, MA, LMHC

With the exception of some waitressing jobs, I have always worked in the counseling field.  While in graduate school I was a case manager for a Residential Foster Care Facility where I worked directly with adolescents and their families.  The adolescents I served were survivors of trauma; neglect, sexual, physical and/or emotional abuse.  They struggled with grief and loss, self-injury, anxiety, PTSD, and depression.  It was during this time that I became passionate about trauma informed care.

My internship experience in Graduate School led me in a new direction and I began my professional career as a therapist for individuals struggling with both mental health issues and addiction.  I also completed psychiatric evaluations in the emergency room.  Throughout my years of clinical experience, I had the privilege of working with some of the same families that I served when I was a case manager.  Again, I observed the significant role of adverse childhood events and trauma on an individual’s quality of life.  This strengthened my desire to break the cycle of trauma, abuse and addiction.

I rounded out my experience working for an agency specializing in trauma therapy for children, teens and adults.  I was able to participate in evidence based best practice trainings specifically related to trauma. These experiences taught me that humans are incredibly resilient and capable of healing when provided the opportunity to connect without judgement.

I am a NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over a decade of experience. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Art therapy from Russell Sage College, and my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and Community Psychology from The Sage Colleges.  I will partner with you to decide what treatment approach is the best fit to help you achieve your goals.  Areas I am skilled in include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and mindfulness. I am experienced in trauma, complex trauma, PTSD, addiction, depression, self-harm, and anxiety.  I enjoy working with all ages.