My focus is on providing competent, ethical and effective treatment that helps break the cycle of ineffective behaviors that keep my clients stuck. Those ineffective behaviors are often things that have worked in the past for the short term, but no longer work as well or have negative consequences in the present. My therapeutic work emphasizes understanding those behaviors in context, as well as learning new behaviors to cope with intense negative emotions. By striking a balance between acceptance and change, clients forge a new path forward to build the life they want.
In my practice, I provide individual therapy aimed at assessing and addressing the issues that continue to keep people from being the best version of themselves. I am extensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and I have provided both comprehensive DBT including all four modalities (group DBT skills training, individual DBT therapy, phone coaching, and participation in a DBT consultation group) as well as DBT informed therapy (using some of the four modalities) for a number of years.
Education
Nebraska Wesleyan University, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Master’s in Adolescence and Youth in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Kansas State University.
Doctorate of Counseling Psychology from the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio
Licensure
State of New York Licensed Psychologist – 015731
Recent Presentations
Allen, A & Guarascio, K (August, 2023). DBT Consultation Teams. Presented to mental health professionals at Southwestern School for Behavioral Studies. Tucson, AZ.
Loyer, V, Guarascio, K. & Gardenhire, T (August, 2022). Relief, Hope, and Skills: DBT and Competency Focused Family Therapy. Southwest School of Behavioral Studies annual Guarascio, K. (2018). Suicide Risk Assessment and Intervention. House of Good Shepherd Clinical Team, Utica, NY.