Today is the first step toward something extraordinary.
Paolo Morena, LPC | Ridgefield Trusted

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Licensed Professional Counselor
Individual, Premarital Couples, and Family Counseling

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor/Psychotherapist with extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including varying economic, cultural, ethnic, spiritual, faith, racial, and sexual identities. I am also skilled in supporting individuals dealing with chronic and severe mental health conditions.

I adopt an eclectic therapeutic approach, drawing from multiple theoretical frameworks to best meet the unique needs of each client. My practice integrates evidence-based techniques from Psychodynamic Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. My work with premarital couples also incorporates a variety of methods, depending on the specific dynamics and goals of the relationship.

I focus on uncovering the root causes of emotional challenges, using the therapeutic relationship to explore recurring life patterns. My active, collaborative style creates a safe space for insight and meaningful growth.



Psychological Care with Heart and Expertise

Office & telehealth visits in Connecticut & telehealth in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio & Michigan.

Counseling

I provide counseling and psychotherapy services to individuals, premarital couples, and families ages 18 and older. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, offering support that includes therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, premarital, and more. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client’s individual needs to help them achieve the personal growth they are striving for.  I am fully licensed and provide telehealth services in: Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan and Ohio.

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Emotional Support Animal (ESA) assessment & letter

I am able to provide Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters through my practice. Requests for letters confirming the need for Emotional Support Animals (ESA) will be decided on an individual basis and will be determined based on therapeutic history and current state of mind. They will not be provided without a thorough evaluation.

You may notice that ESA letters are available on various websites for a minimal fee. Please keep in mind that these letters are, most times, not legitimate. The only way to receive a legitimate ESA letter for housing is through a qualified mental health practitioner. An ESA letter received through my practice is valid for one (1) year.

What are Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)?

What an ESA is:

• An animal that reduces the symptoms of a disability

• An animal that makes it possible for those with disabilities to carry out one or more major life activities as described by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

• An animal that provides comfort such that the comfort alleviates one or more symptoms of a disability

What an ESA is not:

• A service animal

• A pet that alleviates a general sense of discomfort but does not reduce specific symptoms of a disability

• A pet that you don’t want to give up, but that does not alleviate one or more symptoms of a disability

• A pet you cannot leave at home when you travel

• A replacement for therapy

• A substitute for human relationships

I require new clients to meet for at least three (3) sessions in order to conduct a thorough evaluation. These sessions are able to be billed through the client's insurance, if I am in network. There may be some time spent outside of the session (writing the letter, contacting others, etc.), which is not able to be billed to insurance and will be billed separately. Please keep in mind that a letter is not guaranteed, and a letter will only be provided for those that meet criteria after an evaluation.

I know how helpful a beloved pet can be when managing challenging mental health symptoms. I appreciate the opportunity to ensure that a pet can continue providing relief. 


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Walk & Talk Counseling

Walk and talk therapy is an innovative approach that combines the therapeutic power of conversation and professional guidance with the healing energy of nature. This alternative form of therapy brings individuals the opportunity to engage in movement and mindfulness. Allowing clients to become more aware of their physical sensations and somatic experiences, which provides opportunities to regulate our nervous system.

Walking can provide deeper processing and assist in allowing clients to access emotions, thoughts, and memories in a different way than traditional face to face therapy. Side by side conversation allows clients to process in a more casual setting which often empowers clients to talk more freely, especially while discussing difficult or sensitive topics.

Walk and talk therapy isn’t just about getting outside; it’s about bringing a fresh perspective to your mental health journey. By combining the therapeutic effects of nature, the benefits of physical movement, and the comfort of side-by-side communication, this approach offers a unique and effective path to wellness.

How it works?

Before beginning walk and talk therapy, clients will meet with me in-office or virtually for the initial session. This provides us an opportunity to complete an initial assessment which will involve creating a treatment plan and goals for therapy, along with discussing the details of walk and talk therapy.

Once a plan is in place we will walk side by side engaging in conversation while strolling through nature at your set pace.

Why it is beneficial?

The benefits of this alternative form of therapy are dependent upon each client but can overall improve our mental health for a multitude of reasons.

• Walking allows us to get our bodies moving and can help get us out of or minds, increasing creativity and our mind and body connection.

• Nature has a soothing effect on the mind, making it easier to open-up and process emotions.

• The act of walking while engaging in therapy promotes both physical and mental well-being.

• Walking stimulates blood flow, releases endorphins, and can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Connecting with nature allows us to slow down and increase our ability to focus on the present moment.

• Sitting in an office can be uncomfortable, decreasing eye contact can significantly reduce tension.

 • It provides a sense of equality and partnership in the therapeutic process, making clients feel more comfortable and engaged.

Ready to take the first step? Let's walk the path of healing together, one step at a time.


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Treatment Specializations

Individual Counseling

Premarital Counseling

Family Counseling


Treatment specialization is not limited to but includes:

Depression
Anxiety
Bi-Polar/Mood Disorders
PTSD
Pandemic Stress/Anxiety/Depression
Premarital (Couples)
Faith/Religious/Spirituality
Men's Issues
Women's Issues
Grief
Career
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual
Conflict Resolution
Parenting
Sex/Intimacy
Chronic Illness/Pain
Military/Veterans/Law Enforcement

Rate & Insurance

Rate:

$200 per individual session and $250 per couples/family session. Copays, deductibles and out of pocket expenses are due at the time services are rendered. 

Insurance :

I accept the insurances listed below as an in-network provider, unless otherwise noted. This information is the most up to date including any insurance provider search/directory. If your insurance is not listed below, then I am considered an out-of-network provider. The coverage as an out-of-network is different than an in-network provider. However, you may be able to get reimbursed by your insurance. Please contact your insurance company to address any questions that you may have.

NY residents: I do not provide tele-counseling in New York as I am not licensed in New York to provide tele-counseling services.  I do not participate/accept MVP Healthcare insurance.

If you have insurance that is serviced by a third party, including but not limited to Oscar, Surest, Wellfleet- please contact me. The process is different if you have insurance serviced by a third party.


                    -Aetna

                    -Cigna/Evernorth

                    -ConnectiCare

                    -CT Medicaid/HUSKY

                    -Optum

                    -Oxford

                    -UnitedHealthcare




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