Amanda Wirag
You made it! I’m Amanda, and I’m here to help you figure things out. I have the privilege of working with people dealing with all kinds of real-life struggles—trauma, ADHD, anxiety, low motivation, oppositional behavior, or just feeling totally over therapy. A lot of this stuff comes from old pain or shame that’s been weighing you down, and my goal is to help lighten that load so you can feel more like yourself again. My style is trauma-informed, calm, and focused on healing the deeper stuff in a way that feels safe and manageable. I also look at the bigger picture—family dynamics, past relationships, and the systems around you—because they all play a part.
I have the privilege of working with people dealing with all kinds of real-life struggles—trauma, ADHD, anxiety, low motivation, oppositional behavior, or just feeling totally over therapy.
******Please be advised that intake appointments require at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. If an intake is canceled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours’ notice, I will cancel the intake appointment and place you on my waitlist for future availability. I value direct and timely communication and ask that clients be considerate of my time and schedule, just as I strive to be respectful and considerate of yours. Intake appointments are specifically reserved for new clients, and adequate notice allows me the opportunity to offer that time to another individual who may be waiting for services.
First session
I’m not the type of therapist who gives unsolicited advice or tells you how to live your life. Our time together is more of a relaxed, real conversation where we start getting to know each other. I use humor, creativity, and a down-to-earth approach—especially for people who have felt dismissed, misunderstood, or just didn’t vibe with therapy in the past. My work centers on healing in a way that actually feels human. You might leave the session feeling: A.) More confident about what you want to work on, B.) A mix of emotions—some comfortable, some challenging, C.) A little lighter, more hopeful, or even joyful. My goal is for you to feel welcomed, supported, and like you can show up exactly as you are—no pressure, no judgment, just real connection and room to heal.
Strengths
In our work together, we will identify your current challenges and clarify your short- and long-term goals—whether that's where you hope to be in a month, six months, or a year. From there, we’ll explore practical options and strategies tailored to support your progress. Each session is designed to provide greater insight into what you’re facing, along with actionable steps you can take right away. Collaboration is central to my approach, and I encourage open dialogue and mutual accountability to ensure our work remains effective and aligned with your needs.
Ideal clients
I am best positioned to serve individuals who are ready for honest, meaningful change and want a more direct, focused approach to therapy. I work well with clients navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, family conflict, life transitions, and patterns that feel difficult to break. My style is active and goal-oriented—I won’t just sit back and listen, but will help you identify what’s not working, understand why, and develop practical strategies to move forward. If you’re looking for straightforward feedback, deeper insight, and real tools you can apply in your daily life, we will likely be a strong fit.
Treatment methods
Psychoeducation
I combine an element of cognitive behavioral therapy and education to provide the patient and families with knowledge about various facets of the issues in question and treatment that is focused on a better overall outcome.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I’ve been using CBT in my practice for the past five years. It’s helped dozens of clients challenge reoccurring thoughts and manage their anxiety. We’ll use CBT to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other. We’ll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a less anxious and stressed life.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy
Prolonged Exposure Therapy is an evidence-based approach for treating symptoms of PTSD. This method helps individuals gradually and safely face trauma-related memories, emotions, and situations they have been avoiding. Through this process, clients learn that these reminders are no longer dangerous, allowing them to regain a sense of control and reduce the power of trauma over their daily lives.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- ConnecticutLicense 46.005401