I help individuals process and manage challenging emotions, find their self-confidence again, and learn to trust in their own innate abilities and strengths in order to help them move past “survival mode” so they can thrive on their journey toward rediscovering their true selves, toward living a more authentic life.
About Monica Whalen, LCSW-R
I am a NYS Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years clinical experience working in a variety of settings including residential, and outpatient with clients ranging from young children to older adults.
Along this journey of my own, I have been influenced by both my personal and professional experiences, discovering what areas I am most passionate….as well as identifying what I don’t want to do (because, in life, we sometimes figure out what we don’t want in order to guide us toward what we do want and find our passion.). My experiences have led me to develop my private practice in 2021. Doing so has allowed me to find my own work/life balance.
My Approach
It isn’t easy to find the courage to ask for help. If you are reading this, I commend you for getting this far. When you enter my office, you are greeted with warmth, and authenticity. I am direct, but compassionate, with a little bit of humor, and a swear word here and there (because sometimes situations just call for them) and I often show up wearing leggings with funky designs.
I will work hard to provide a safe environment for you to explore and express yourself openly. We all come with unique strengths and needs; therefore, I use a multi-faceted approach with all of my clients that is grounded in the practices of being person-centered, trauma-responsive, and strength-based.
Your Therapist
Hello, and welcome to Whalen Integrative Therapy! My name is Monica. The therapeutic relationship is the most important part of treatment–so, let me introduce myself: Born and raised in the Rochester area, I am a lover of animals and nature; I prefer summer to winter, even though my favorite holiday is Christmas. In the summertime, I love taking advantage of things that my hometown has to offer, by visiting Seneca Park Zoo, or one of the area parks or beaches having a picnic with my best friend. During the winter months, I enjoy baking, curling up with some hot chocolate, catching up on my weekly TV shows, or listening to an audiobook (I love a good mystery).
Being self-employed has allowed me to spend more time doing things I enjoy, something that I struggled with previously balancing the time and energy to do.
Thanks for reading, I look forward to the opportunity to find out more about you.
–-Monica Whalen, LCSW-R