Therapist Spotlight: Stacy Greenberg, LMHC
Stacy Greenberg is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and has been on the Passages clinical team for almost 3 years. In addition to seeing clients, she is also a graduate intern supervisor. Michelle Button, Passages Founder & Director, sat down with Stacy to discuss what led her to becoming a therapist and to discuss her approach to therapy.
What made you want to be a therapist?
Truthfully, the easy answer is I always wanted to help people. But, in reality, I love studying the brain and I love helping others. I was always overly empathetic to others as a kid and wanted to help the homeless and help the elderly etc. I just knew, something in me, from a young age, that I was meant to be a therapist. I love listening to others' stories and trying to help them piece together their life to find happiness & fulfillment.
What do you enjoy most about being a therapist?
Hearing others stories and seeing people make positive changed in their lives. I love getting to know each client and the connections I am able to make with them. I learn so much from my clients. I also love when clients use the tools from sessions in their everyday life and share their successes with me.
How would you describe what a session is like with you?
A session with me varies based on the needs of the client. I create a safe space for clients to be their true self. I also create a non judgemental atmosphere to help clients identify their goals and things they would like to see change in their life. As a client, you can expect some humor and levity as well as concrete tools and skills to help you reach your goals.
What is one of your specialities that you really enjoy working with and why?
I really enjoy working with anxiety in the postpartum period and college age clients. I love to see the growth with these clients, hold a space for them, and provide concrete tools to use in everyday life.
What drew you to working at Passages?
The kindness, compassion and warmth of the staff and environment. I also love that the practice mission, values and goals, align with my personal values and goals. Passages just made me feel comfortable and I knew it would be a good place for me to grow personally and professionally.
What is one thing you find yourself frequently saying in sessions to clients?
My constant theme in sessions is "thoughts and feelings are not facts". Also, I like to say how beneficial it is for growth to get comfortable being uncomfortable.
Is there a favorite book, app or other resource you recommend to clients and why?
I love apps that are all about self love. Headspace is my favorite app that I recommend to clients. Daily mantras are so helpful as well. I also love the Gottman card decks app for relationship building and/or strengthening couples.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? What do you do to de-stress?
I really enjoy spending time with my family and my dog. I enjoy walking, exercising, and relaxing with a good TV show or book. I love hot tea year round, as it really calms me. I also love trying new restaurants and eating outdoors. My friends are a huge support for me, and always help me de-stress me when I need it!
Is there a fun fact you would like to share that people might be surprised by?
I think people would be surprised to know that I am a good ice skater! Also, I have been to Alaska, which was a very cool experience.
Is there a dream training you would like to take or an area you would be interested in learning more about clinically?
EMDR for sure! I would like to take the full training and get certified to be able to integrate these skills into my work with clients that have experienced trauma.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting therapy but on the fence?
I always say that you have nothing to lose by trying, and only tons to gain. Although it may be scary at first, reaching out is the hardest part. I would like to add that as a client, you have control of your therapy journey, which seems to ease people's nerves if they are apprehensive about starting.
If you need further support for yourself or would like to work with Stacy, reach out now to schedule a consultation. We make it easy! Stacy is available to see clients in person in our Sayville office or can see clients that reside in New York State via telehealth.