Description
Change is easier when you feel heard, understood, validated and empowered. I believe that a trusting and honest relationship where your therapist helps you feel that you are the expert to your experience is extremely important to your belief that you can achieve the goals you set for yourself.
My name is Charlene Esquilin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York. I earned my Masters in Social Work from Hunter College in 2013. I identify as a Hispanic/Black Female and I believe my identity can be relatable for many. I grew up in a community where getting support through counseling was not very supported. As I've gotten older I began to understand the importance of feeling supported, validated and getting guidance from someone that looks like me and can relate to me . Having that connection was and is so vital to how I developed and are continuing to develop my identity and confidence. My desire is to be this support for others.
I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families which include working with children and adults with disabilities, working with individuals who have open ACS cases, as well as adults, children, teenagers and families experiencing challenges connected to emotions likes anxiety, depression, anger, relationship problems, addictions and adjusting to different life situations. I also have experience working with parents in a group setting providing them support as they improve their parenting skills. I have worked in a variety of settings such as foster care agencies, schools, clinics and religious organizations. During my time in this field I have learned that providing a respectful, nonjudgmental environment is what contributes to a healthy therapist-client relationship where the client can thrive and feel most empowered.
I look forward to working with you!