Ailsa Forlenza, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
Many people I work with are used to holding a lot on their own. Maybe you feel deeply affected by your experiences, relationships, or the needs of others, while at the same time feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or exhausted. You might struggle with anxiety, low mood, or a sense that you’ve lost touch with yourself. Even when things look “fine” on the outside, something feels off inside.
Therapy can be a place to slow down and make sense of what you’re carrying in your mind and body. My approach is rooted in the awareness that past experiences can shape our nervous system, relationships, and sense of safety. I bring a calm, curious, and compassionate presence to each session. Together, we can recognize patterns that keep you feeling stuck and learn new ways to obtain balance, so you may move forward with greater clarity and resilience.
Professional Experience
I work with individuals ages 15 and up, with a focus on mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, grief, supporting caregivers, chronic illness or pain, alcohol or substance abuse, and spiritual or existential concerns. I use evidenced based modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic approaches to support healing in a way that feels both structured and attuned.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from the University at Buffalo. My clinical social work experience includes outpatient mental health and substance abuse, behavioral health within primary care offices, and home-based hospice care. I have worked with individuals and families in both one on one and group therapy across these settings.
It can feel overwhelming to reach out to someone new for support. I am here to help you feel seen and heard in a nonjudgmental space. Please feel free to reach out to see if I am the right fit for you!
