Marilyn Bryan DeBernardo , LMHC

Marilyn Bryan DeBernardo is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in New York with 25 years of clinical experience helping adults and their families navigate addiction, mental health concerns, and life transitions. She holds additional credentials as a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Use Disorder Counselor with a gambling certification (CASAC-G), a credential for working with substance use and gambling-related problems, and a combined OMH and NY OASAS certificate to work with clients who have co-existing disorders (IMHATT).

Her practice focuses on treating addictions and substance use disorders alongside related issues such as codependency, relationship challenges, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and the stresses of daily life. Marilyn draws on a range of therapeutic methods to support people facing complex emotional and behavioral concerns, helping them move from feeling stuck to making sustainable changes.

She works collaboratively with clients and their loved ones to establish a therapeutic partnership, identify practical goals, and connect people with additional resources that support recovery and growth. Marilyn aims to help individuals reclaim agency and pursue the life they want by offering experienced guidance, clear strategies, and compassionate support.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Sessions

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients clarify their values and take practical steps toward a meaningful life, even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and coping with life changes by teaching skills to act in line with personal priorities rather than avoiding discomfort.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns. It offers concrete strategies for managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, and for developing healthier coping habits in everyday situations.

Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes empathetic listening and the therapist's genuine support to help clients explore their feelings and build self-understanding. This approach can be particularly helpful for relationship concerns, self-esteem issues, and grief as it fosters a safe space for personal growth.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the collaborative process. Marilyn works with clients to assess goals, preferences, and needs, and adapts techniques to create a personalized care plan that fits each person's situation.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions by video call or phone allow face-to-face conversation from home, while live chat and text messaging provide accessible options for people with busy schedules or mobility constraints. These formats make it easier for clients to stay consistent with care and integrate therapeutic work into daily life.