Jena Varley, LCSW

"Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change.” - Brene Brown

Jena Varley LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Connecticut with experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings. She attended Southern Connecticut State University for her bachelor’s and Capella University for her master’s degree in Social Work. 

Jena specializes in group and individual therapy, crisis response and behavioral health assessments. Jena has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with mental health challenges, behavioral issues, and substance abuse. Jena has experience working with all age groups and has helped individuals and families tackle issues including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, and disruptive behaviors. She developed her skills working in residential, outpatient and, in-home settings with individuals from a variety of backgrounds. Jena is adept at identifying core issues and collaboratively developing attainable goals with her clients.

Her therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, Psycho education, Talk Therapy, Trauma Focused and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). Jena is passionate about mindfulness and grounding techniques, believing in the power of quieting the mind to connect with one’s inner self. Jena develops tailored, innovative treatment approaches for her clients and guides them to success with accountability measures and real world application of the therapeutic tools.

Jena’s professional philosophy centers around meeting clients where they are, empowering them through education about their diagnoses, and fostering self-empowerment/improved self- esteem. She creates a safe, nonjudgmental environment to support clients in developing healthier thought patterns and behaviors.

Outside of work, Jena enjoys fishing, kayaking, spending quality time with family, friends, and her two dogs. As a former Habitat for Humanity Elected Board Member, she brings dedication/positivity to her work within the community, advocating for and supporting individuals in need.

Jena Offers:

Counseling for children, adolescents, adults, and families

 Specializes in:

Anxiety disorders (generalized, social, and phobias) 

Behavioral disorders

ADHD

Co-occurring disorders/ substance abuse Depressive disorders

Obsessive compulsive disorders

Anger/explosive disorders

Grief/Loss

PTSD/Trauma

Eating disorders

Self-esteem related issues