Esther Ungar
LCSW-C

I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master's degree in social work from the University of Maryland. My approach is grounded in core principles that shape how I interact and help clients.

Central to my approach is a trauma-informed perspective, which reframes the question from 'what's wrong with you?' to 'what happened to you?'. This shift can be profoundly liberating for survivors of trauma,  who may have been given many diagnoses in the past due to their trauma symptoms. Additionally, I integrate an attachment-informed framework, recognizing the significance of human connections in both our deepest wounds and our most profound healing. Moreover, I employ a neurobiological lens in understanding trauma and stress, emphasizing the strong connection between our brains and bodies. During sessions, I educate clients on the typical somatic responses to stress while incorporating tailored exercises to explore bodily responses to stress and facilitate somatic healing.

In my sessions, I utilize IFS and EMDR, both evidence-based therapies, meaning the techniques I use have undergone thorough research and proven effectiveness.

With five years of experience working closely with children as young as two years old who have experienced trauma and loss, I have a unique perspective on the ways that early trauma impacts adults. My specialized training in attachment and trauma with young children equips me with valuable tools that I seamlessly integrate into my work with adults, fostering healing from childhood wounds.

Throughout my career, I have supported individuals across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, and adults grappling with diverse challenges such as trauma, disrupted attachments, grief, depression, mood disorders, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, anxiety, ADHD, and selective mutism. Additionally, I have provided guidance and assistance to both biological and non-biological caregivers navigating the complexities of parenting.

Outside of my professional endeavors, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, as well as spending time in nature.

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