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Professional Counseling

My clinical approach infuses mindfulness, somatics, behaviorism, developmental attachment theory, neuroscience, depth psychology, and compassion to promote increased clarity and regulation. Having previously worked in various roles in education for over 25 years, I have a deep understanding of human development, behavior, family systems, and social skill enhancement, which deeply informs my therapeutic approach. My goal is to provide full presence, compassion, and a warm, supportive environment to allow for enhanced self-awareness and insight within individual counseling sessions.

When our most intimate relationships begin to devolve into dysfunctional patterns, it can be challenging to right the course, given the lack of healthy conflict-resolution modeling so many of us were exposed to throughout our lives and the influence of past relational experiences on our current responses. My approach to couple and family counseling integrates a somatic-infused, mindfulness-based framework with research-based methods to refine and develop relational skills, thereby improving dynamics. Some potential areas of focus include enhancing communication skills and learning how to repair and increase demonstration of intimacy, respect, and compassion toward one another while also exploring the impact of conditioning from each partner's family of origin. 

 

Additionally, I am open to facilitating sessions to promote improved parent-adult-child relational dynamics, adult-sibling dynamics, or any other dyad or group ready to shift their patterns of engagement.

Please note that my training in Somatic Experiencing, Bodynamic somatic developmental psychology, complex and relational trauma, and mindfulness meditation influences my approach. I provide space and psychoeducation, aiming to equip you with a new skill, insight, perspective, and/or strategy in each session. Given the roots of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Buddhism and Zen, much of my approach draws on these clinical approaches to provide an affirming, supportive, and empowering dynamic to help you reach your therapeutic goals.

Somatic Zen Therapeutic and Counseling Services
Michelle L. Caruso, LPC Psychology Today

Visit me on Psychology Today.

I am in the process of being paneled with most local insurance companies.

If I do not take your insurance presently, I can provide a Smart Bill that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.

Insurance

Somatic Zen lily

 "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself, just as I am, then I can change." ~ Carl Rogers

Are you ready to gain clarity, regulation, and deeper self-awareness?
 Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Somatic Zen Logo Monroe CT Michelle L. Caruso

 

Somatic Zen, PLLC

755 Main Street,

Building 2, Suite 2B

Monroe, CT 06468

203-628-2468

Somatic Zen is owned by licensed professional counselor

Michelle L. Caruso, LPC, SEP, MA ProC, MA SpEd of Connecticut.

 

Services provided include:

  • Professional Individual, Couple & Family Counseling

  • Neurodiversity Consulting

  • Mindfulness Meditation Instruction/Coaching

  • Trauma Treatment 

  • Alternate Healing Modalities Promoting Embodied Spirituality

 

Serving: Fairfield County, Litchfield County, & New Haven County

 

​        www.somaticzencounseling.com

© 2026 Somatic Zen, PLLC

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