About Vanessa Barton, CSW (She/Her)

I believe that 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 adult women and men 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. 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. Through ACT, we focus not on eliminating pain, but on learning how to carry it with kindness while taking meaningful steps forward. I also incorporate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as I work toward EMDR certification, supporting clients in processing unresolved or distressing experiences so they no longer hold 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, self-understanding, and a deeper sense of connection so you can move forward with intention, clarity, and compassion toward the life you want to live.