Mary Alfinito

Mary Alfinito is a licensed clinical social worker in New York who brings 40 years of experience to her practice. She helps people who are dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, depression, ADHD, trauma, and LGBT concerns. Mary aims to make the first step feel manageable and respects the courage it takes to begin therapy.

She meets each person where they are and focuses on clear, practical ways to handle daily challenges. Sessions are conversational and goal-focused. Mary helps clients notice unhelpful thinking patterns and build skills for managing strong emotions and difficult situations.

Mary uses cognitive behavioral techniques to identify thoughts and behaviors that keep problems stuck. She also draws on dialectical behavior strategies to teach coping skills for intense feelings. Trauma-focused approaches are used when past experiences are getting in the way of current functioning.

Her background includes decades of work across age groups and many kinds of concerns, including developmental and disability-related issues, neurodiversity such as autism and Asperger syndrome, and caregiver stress. She also addresses topics like body image, codependency, and career questions.

People can expect a steady, patient approach and straightforward tools they can try between sessions. Mary encourages open conversation about what is and isn’t working, and she adjusts the plan as needed to fit each person’s goals and life.

Approaches people use in online therapy

Mary often uses cognitive behavioral methods, which look at how thoughts and behaviors influence mood and actions and teach step-by-step strategies to change unhelpful patterns. This approach can help with anxiety, depression, and everyday stressors.

She also applies elements of dialectical behavior therapy, which focuses on emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and better communication skills. These techniques are helpful for managing intense feelings and improving coping during difficult moments.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences, and what feels manageable, then tailor techniques to fit the client’s needs. Clients and therapist check in over time and adjust strategies if something isn’t working.

Session formats are not listed in the biography, so please confirm current options before booking. Many people choose online work because it can fit into busy schedules, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and avoid travel time. Online sessions can make it easier to try therapy from everyday locations and bring skills practice into real life, while the therapist helps shape a plan that fits each person’s routines and goals.