Daniel Llerena
My name is Daniel Llerena. I have worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 7 years providing client-centered mental health services. I earned my bachelor's degree at Central Connecticut University New Britain, CT and Master of Social Work from University of Connecticut School of Social Work, Hartford, CT.
Working with people from various backgrounds and issues has helped me learn from them to be a better clinician.
Throughout my clinical experience, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds who are navigating a wide range of emotional, mental health, and life challenges. My approach is grounded in creating a safe, respectful, and nonjudgemental environment where clients can feel heard, understood, and comfortable exploring the concerns that brought them to therapy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process. Rather than telling you what you should do, I work with you to better understand your experiences, identify your strengths, develop practical coping strategies, and explore meaningful steps toward the changes you would like to make. I incorporate evidence-based therapeutic interventions while tailoring treatment to each person's individual needs, goals, values, and circumstances.
First session
The first session will be discussing the needs/presenting concern(s), assessing compatibility and making referrals when necessary to appropriate care. My goal is to help clients build greater self-awareness, resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being recognizing the strengths they already possess. Whether you are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, life transitions, or simply feel stuck and unsure about your next steps, therapy can provide an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and work toward meaningful change.
Strengths
I have experiences working with diverse populations, including members of the LGBTQ+ community and individuals from a variety of cultural and social backgrounds. I recognize that every person's experiences are unique, and I strive to provide culturally responsive and affirming care.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone who is going through difficult time and is looking for someone to listen and provide support without judgment. I enjoy helping people work through emotional struggles, relationship concerns, and life changes. I want my client to feel comfortable being themselves while we work together to understand their challenges, build coping skills, and make positive changes.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use this method of treatment helping individuals identify and change negative/unhelpful thoughts that lead to distressing emotions and behaviors.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I use this method of treatment helping others develop a greater awareness of the present moment, leading to a reduction in stress and anxiety, improving emotional regulation and have a nonjudgemental approach toward one's thoughts and feelings.
Location
Virtual sessions