Daniel Badillo Psychotherapy, LMHC

I wanted to join the Peace Corps when I was a teenager, so perhaps there was always a sense of responsibility to help others. Growing up, I wanted to be many things at different points in time. Being a writer was a serious consideration for a large chunk of time. Even becoming an archeologist was on the table at some point, as I didn't fall in love with psychology until my first semester in college at Stonybrook University. It started with a simple introduction to psychology course and then another and another. I was hooked going into my second year and decided to major in psychology. I used to have a fair amount of anxiety as a child so this was naturally my main interest when developing my skills as a counselor. As time went on, I started to understand how much trauma plays a role in people's lives and how heavily it can contribute to anxiety and other mental health challenges. To better my understanding of trauma, I became trained in EMDR therapy and I am currently fully trained in EMDR.

An aim of mine is to make the therapy process as easy and seamless as possible. The intake process for my practice is 100% electronic and all forms are completed online in a secure client portal. Documentation, including insurance information, can easily be uploaded through the portal. It's fairly simple and I think we can all appreciate that. Treatment goals are assessed throughout the first few sessions of therapy and the client dictates the pace and flow of therapy, though I may utilize structured interventions (such as CBT) depending on the needs of the client. Therapy is always about the needs of the client and their comfort level. My practice serves adolescents and adults, though I do have prior experience working with children.

I am always on the hunt for seminars and training that can enhance my knowledge of mood disorders and trauma, as these are my main areas of interest and focus. After being trained in EMDR, I developed a deepened interest in trauma-focused therapies. Some further training of interest includes CBT and mindfulness-based programs.

I decided to go all-in on virtual therapy after practicing this way for two years. Though I can appreciate the benefits of in-person therapy, virtual therapy offers an incredible means of connecting with others in a flexible and meaningful manner. I am excited for the future of virtual therapies (especially VR therapy) as they continue to evolve.