Counseling Specialties:
Individual, Teens, Couples, Mental health, Addictions, and Family Counseling in Connecticut
Meet the staff
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Leshae R., MS LPCA LADC
Owner and Psychotherapist
HI, I’m Leshae, Owner and Psychotherapist of Advanced Psyc. I am honored to have you in this healing space. A little about me: I have a background in Clinical psychology from undergraduate studies, and a double Masters, with a Professional Certificate in Professional counseling. I’ve always wanted to be a Therapist, and at one point considered being a Psychologist. I thoroughly enjoy the study of human psychology and what drives our emotions and behaviors. I enjoy 1:1 work with my clients, I also thoroughly enjoy working in Admin and Management as I enjoy the task orientation and seeing Therapist’s thrive and grow in their work. I currently specialize in mental health and addictions counseling, where I utilize a person centered and collaborative approach with clients who are stuck or finding that they need support for complex problems. I am trained in utilizing CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused therapy as evidence based therapy techniques.
Additionally, I offer consultations to professionals looking to expand their clinical profile, scale their business, or need business coaching in the field.
Inquire today to discuss your needs! I’m happy to help!
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Grace A. Administrative Assistant
My name is Grace Alcaraz, and I am the Administrative Assistant at Advance Psychotherapy Practice LLC. With over 10 years of experience in healthcare management, I am a dedicated Psychotherapy Administrator with a passion for enhancing personal growth. I excel in streamlining operations, optimizing patient care, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. My commitment lies in supporting therapists by creating a collaborative and efficient practice environment, allowing them to focus on their clients. On a personal note, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, and fur babies.
To schedule an appointment please contact Admin@advancedpsyc.com
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Victoria Stook, LCSW-Therapist
Licensed Social Worker
(Virtual Only)
Hi! My name is Victoria and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I understand that starting therapy can be scary. As a therapist, I can assure you that my focus is to provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable and come just as you are. Building a strong therapeutic alliance with trust as the foundation is a vital part of the therapeutic process. We will work together to explore and create goals based on your individual presenting concerns and needs.
I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan and enjoy meeting with teens, adults, and families on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, school and work-related stressors, LGBTQIA+ related issues, and relationship conflict. I utilize an eclectic approach based on the needs of each client, but frequently utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I also have formal training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for adolescents and teens who have experienced trauma. I utilize a trauma-informed, strengths-based lens with all of my clients, and am passionate about helping all individuals take steps towards a greater sense of well-being.
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Jill Badyrka, LMFT-Therapist
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Hello, my name is Jill. I work within a Holistic and Strength-Based Foundation, with a profound understanding of the impact of environmental elements, and the effects these elements cause in the mind and body. Emotional influences cognitive influences physical/physiological influences emotional well-being: these internal systems are intricately woven in a magnificent tapestry that is the individual at any given moment. The individual is further affected by the external systems of family, job, school, neighborhood, spiritual affiliations, nutritional selections, and on and on. I believe in the power of the individual to learn to heal the Self and achieve Wellness and Peace in all Systems.All of my work begins in a heart-centered space, with a Humanistic approach of hope and faith for the Healing of the Self. I specialize in Trauma, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Parent-Child Relationships, Divorce, Anger Management, Life-Coaching, Self-Esteem, Self-Empowerment, and Inner Peace. Services are offered to individuals, couples, and families.
My work involves children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My passion lies in assisting clients work toward healing and wellness through a variety of modalities. With a humanistic and collaborative approach, I support clients in discovering and celebrating their uniqueness, as well as their skills to continue their journeys toward wellness.
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Krystle Jordan, LMFT-Therapist
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with seven years of experience helping adults navigate life’s challenges. My approach is rooted in trauma-informed care, and I integrate Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support my clients in building resilience and finding meaningful change.
I am passionate about cultural diversity and deeply value working with individuals from all backgrounds. My priority is creating a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental space where clients feel truly seen and heard. I take the time to understand each person’s unique story, ensuring a holistic and personalized approach to care.
Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, or trauma, I am here to help you reclaim your narrative, develop effective coping skills, and move toward healing and growth.
I look forward to working with you on your journey!
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Yulan Menzie-Hackney, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Hi! My name is Yulan Menzie-Hackney and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. Making the step to come to therapy is the first step to creating change and it may be scary at first, however I am here to support you in whatever way I can. With a passion for creating safe and supportive spaces, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with resilience and compassion. I have over 4 years of experience working with individuals facing, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma and substance use recovery, as well as adults and adolescents.
My approach is grounded in evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Person Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), focusing on empowering clients to reclaim their stories and build sustainable paths to healing. I believe in the power of connection, trust and open dialogue to create meaningful change. My goal is to meet clients where they are, honoring their unique experiences while supporting them in discovering their strengths and achieving their goals. I enjoy working with my client and strive to foster an environment where growth and self-discovery are possible. I am excited to connect with you and begin this journey together!
