More about Donnie
I became a therapist because I’ve always been drawn to the real-life side of psychology: the way it shows up in your relationships, your sense of identity, your body image, your self-worth, and even how you move through social media and the changing world around you.
Over the years, I’ve worked with so many young adults who seem like they have it all together on the outside…but inside feel anxious, disconnected, or unsure of themselves. A lot of them learned early on to be the “easy” one - the achiever, the caretaker, the one who keeps the peace - even if it meant ignoring parts of who they are.
This work is also personal for me. I’ve had my own struggles with self-esteem and body image, and I know what it’s like to feel stuck in those patterns. Therapy helped me understand where those beliefs came from, build a more grounded sense of self, and relate to my body in a way that feels more neutral and sustainable - and that experience deeply shapes how I show up for my clients.
And honestly, getting to watch that shift happen - to see someone feel more like themselves again - is the part of this work that means the most to me.
Why I Love This Work
“I highly recommend Donnie for any Gen Z or Millennial in NY wanting to address body image and self-esteem issues. She is authentic, witty, and an all around amazing person and therapist.”
-Donna Vo Sotomayor, RMFTI
What Sets Me Apart?
My Approach
My approach to therapy is collaborative, honest, and grounded in real life. I’m not here to sit silently and nod - I’m here to help you understand yourself on a deeper level, challenge the patterns that are keeping you stuck, and support you in creating change that actually feels sustainable.
I take a relational, insight-oriented approach, which means we look at how your past experiences, relationships, and core beliefs shape the way you think, feel, and show up today. At the same time, we focus on practical tools you can use in your day-to-day life - not just insight, but real shifts.
I also integrate evidence-based interventions throughout our work, including parts work (IFS), cognitive and behavioral strategies, somatic awareness, and nervous system regulation. This allows us to not only understand your patterns, but actually change how you relate to them - mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Our work might include exploring attachment patterns, building self-worth outside of appearance or external validation, improving communication and boundaries, and learning how to regulate your emotions without shutting down or spiraling.
Above all, I aim to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and able to show up as your full self - without judgment.
Licenses:
New York, Licensed Clinical Social Worker #096215
Vermont, Telehealth Licensed Clinical Social Worker #089.0136817TELE
Certified Advanced Holistic Counselor
Holistic Healing
If therapy hasn’t worked for you in the past, it might not be because you’re doing anything wrong - it might be because you were trying to change your thoughts while your body was still stuck in survival mode.
That’s the gap my approach focuses on.
No “just think positive.”
No “just journal about it” when your nervous system is in overdrive.
No pressure to love your body in order to heal your relationship with it.
Real healing means looking at the whole picture: your mind, your body, your emotions, and the deeper layers of who you are.
That might look like using grounding and mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, or tools like EFT (tapping) and visualization to help your nervous system actually feel safe - not just understand that you are.
Together, we’ll start to understand how these pieces connect so you can feel more grounded, more regulated, and more like yourself - not just in theory, but in your day-to-day life.
Compassion
I approach every session with warmth and genuine care. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported and understood, even on the days when things feel heavy or overwhelming.
Respect
Your story and your pace matter. I’ll always honor your boundaries, listen to your voice, and work collaboratively so that therapy feels safe and empowering for you. YOU get to decide what your goals are. If something’s not working, we can change course at any time.
Nonjudgment
Therapy is a place where you don’t have to filter yourself or worry about being “too much.” You can bring your real thoughts, feelings, and experiences here without fear of criticism.
My practice is inclusive and affirming.
I work with clients of all races, cultures, sexualities, gender identities, and backgrounds. No matter what you bring into the room, you will be treated with respect and dignity.
My Values
“I have worked alongside Donnie from our early days in training, and now as practice owners. I can confidently say that she is the example of someone who puts in the work for their clients, and for themselves, which is equally important when navigating sensitive topics. She’s a go-to referral and everyone I’ve referred speaks highly of her and their own progress. Confused or fearful young adults transform into confident versions of themselves with Donnie.”
-Irene Koutsidis-Martelli, LCSW
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