Serena Chestnut, MA

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate

Serena Chestnut completed Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Saint Joseph in 2022, and completed her Bachelor’s degree in psychology at Bay Path University in 2020. She received clinical training in multiple settings and with different populations including a clinic and town youth services department, as well as a school setting. She provides in-person and online cognitive-behavioral therapy for children, adolescents, adults, and couples at the Behavioral Wellness Clinic in Tolland, Connecticut.

While completing her Bachelor’s degree, Serena worked in a children’s behavioral unit of a psychiatric hospital which inspired her to focus on the effect of relationships in an individual’s growth and development. During her time at the hospital, Serena created groups to help patients develop coping skills and ran weekly meditations. Serena determined her next step in helping create a change in people’s lives was to become a therapist who focused on a more systemic approach.

Serena’s approach in therapy is to join into the client’s story and create a narrative that has impacted the individual’s life. Using a metamodel of therapy, Serena helps reframe and create new meanings for her clients as they process their stories and past traumas. Serena believes everyone has a reality that is their truth and it is important to delve into their personal stories to help change occur. Serena walks alongside her clients as they experience their true selves and create a positive change together.