About Vanessa Barton, CSW (She/Her)

I believe healing begins when we feel truly seen, understood, and accepted. Life can feel heavy at times, especially when past experiences, difficult emotions, or ongoing stress leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself or others. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are ready to better understand their inner world and move toward a more meaningful, connected, and fulfilling life.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, relational, and compassionate. I strive to create a space where you can slow down, feel safe, and show up just as you are. I am committed to creating an inclusive, affirming environment for individuals of all identities, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I also support clients in exploring and understanding their identity, helping them make sense of who they are and how they want to show up in the world. Together, we gently explore the thoughts, emotions, and patterns that may be keeping you from living in alignment with what matters most to you.

I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients develop greater flexibility with difficult thoughts and feelings, deepen self-compassion, and clarify personal values. Rather than trying to eliminate pain, ACT focuses on learning how to relate to it with kindness while continuing to move forward in meaningful ways. I also incorporate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and I am currently working toward EMDR certification. This approach supports clients in processing unresolved or distressing experiences so they no longer carry the same emotional weight in the present.

My work is grounded in mindfulness, experiential approaches, and a holistic understanding of how relationships, culture, and life experiences shape who we are. I believe healing is not about “fixing” yourself, but about reconnecting with your inherent strengths and learning to trust yourself again.

My goal is to walk alongside you as you build resilience, deepen self-understanding, and cultivate a stronger sense of connection so you can move forward with intention, clarity, and compassion toward the life you want to live.