Specializing in: PTSD, trauma, social/behavioral issues, lgbtqia+
Dara Pruszenski, MA, LSW (she/her)
I am a licensed social worker with over 10 years of experience working in community mental health, specializing in outpatient therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I’m committed to providing compassionate, individualized support that meets each person where they are. I aim to create a warm, welcoming space where clients feel comfortable exploring their challenges. Together, we’ll find the paths that lead to healing and growth.
I believe in the power of collaboration- whether it’s engaging families in their child’s therapeutic journey or empowering individuals to take an active role in their mental health. My goal is to help clients develop stronger connections with themselves and others, unlock their potential to grow, and live more fulfilling lives.
For children and adolescents, I integrate developmentally appropriate therapeutic approaches such as therapy through play, art, music, and talk therapy to help them express their emotions, process difficult experiences, and develop healthy coping strategies. I focus on helping young clients build emotional awareness, boost self-esteem, and learn communication skills that will benefit them far beyond our sessions.
I specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), trauma (including domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse), Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), LGBTQIA+ issues, and social/behavioral concerns. I draw from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and other mindfulness-based techniques to help clients develop insight, manage emotions, and create lasting change.
My approach is always centered on empathy, respect, and the belief that every individual has the capacity for positive change. Whether through in-person or telehealth sessions, we’ll work to uncover patterns, heal emotional wounds, and empower you to live a life that aligns with your values and aspirations.
I hold a B.A. in Psychology from Penn State University and an M.A. in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh.
Dara’s Hobbies & Interests
Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my two grown children, attending concerts, hiking, practicing yoga, volunteering, and reading.
