Kathryn Felicetta, LCSW
Eating Disorder & Body Image Services Director
Therapist in The Flatiron District, NYC
Working With Me
What Empower means to me: Empowerment is the act of finding strength and faith in oneself, or aiding others to do the same. Sometimes it is easy to forget how capable you are as an individual, all that you’ve already accomplished and what can be in the future. Reconnecting with that…that is empowerment.
My Philosophy: “You Are Allowed to Be Both a Masterpiece & a Work in Progress Simultaneously”-Sophia Bush. I believe that self-compassion and self-reflection are the keys to growth and healing. I work collaboratively with clients to support them in finding relief from challenging thought patterns, behaviors, and personal judgment. I strive to support clients in practicing self-love and mindfulness so they can better recognize their potential and find peace and healing in the process.
What sessions with me look like: Progress is not always linear, and when there are hiccups in the path it becomes very easy to punish oneself or focus on the negative. Working closely with my clients to celebrate the victories, and to not ruminate on setbacks is essential. In my work I strive to find a middle path, as my belief is that each client is their own expert on their recovery. My approach is to make each session safe and respectful, while also challenging when needed. In the end, I am a facilitator of the client’s success, but that success is their own achievement.
SPECIALTIES
Eating Disorders/Body Image
Mood Disorders
Substance Abuse
Suicidal Ideation
Personality Disorders
Dual Diagnosis/Co-Occurring Disorders
Life Transitions
ADHD
Trauma and PTSD
EDUCATION
Columbia University School of Social Work – Master of Science in Social Work with a focus in Contemporary Social Issues, 2019
University of Delaware – Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Psychology, 2010
This approach comes from both personal experience, and training. My journey towards providing this support really began with the passing of a friend. In 2015, I received news of her death from suicide. As is often the case, my first thought was, “why?” It was a very challenging time for me, and that question in that trauma began me on my path.
I knew I wanted to help people, both in similar situations and in others equally difficult. In searching for the best way to do so, I found social work…and I knew I had found my calling. I pursued a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University, and was fortunate to gain acceptance and achieve my goal. During my training, I was exposed to formal methodologies, and learned the craft of providing therapy and support for people in need. I also realized that I valued helping those who were marginalized within society, or who typically would have trouble finding assistance. In particular, I have developed a focus in assisting these individuals and groups that have eating disorders, addictions, and depression. Through navigating my education and the experiences of life, I have found my way to a profession that rewards me deeply, and where I can hopefully make a difference with those that need it most.