Stephanie Klein-OTR/L, MSW (She/Her)
Background:
My name is Stephanie Klein. I was born and raised in Miami, FL and began my education by receiving a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in behavioral healthcare from the University of South Florida. In 2015, I moved to NY for graduate school, receiving a Master’s degree in occupational therapy from Columbia University. I have been a full-time practicing clinician for 4 years and have experience working with adults and children, providing individual and group services in English and Spanish. In 2019 I began my journey with the University of Central Florida towards a Master’s Degree in Social Work, with a clinical specialty. Upon graduation in 2023, I plan to become licensed and then work towards my LCSW.
I have always had an interest in pursuing a career in counseling. During my time working as an occupational therapist, I continued experiencing a drive towards the social work field and eventually took the jump to complete my second master’s degree.
I believe my experience in working with a diverse group of children, adults, and families during vulnerable times will help me flourish as I move into the field of social work.
From my personal experience with therapy, I truly believe in the transformative bond that forms within a supportive and safe therapeutic relationship.
As an MSW intern, I hope to apply my experience and build on my skills to walk alongside clients in their journey to blossoming. I strive to provide a space in which clients know they are seen and heard.
I am looking forward to working with children, teens and adults with a special interest in childhood trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, and life transitions. I am also interested in group and family dynamics, and the workings of developing healthy and satisfying relationships. I have extensive experience working with children with special needs and developmental delays.
I am incredibly excited to be part of the Blossoming Lotus Therapy team and know I will grow from working under the supervision of an established clinician, as well as from the clients that I will be privileged to share space and time with. I am eager to begin this work and thank all of you in advance for your trust and vulnerability.
I look forward to connecting with you.
Julia Girzadas, MSW-C (She/Her)
Background:
Hello and welcome! My name is Julia and my pronouns are she/her/hers. I was born and raised in Southold, NY and moved to Port Jefferson, NY in 2020 as I began my journey with Stony Brook University’s School of Social Welfare. While pursuing my bachelor’s degree in social work I had the fortunate opportunity to intern at Long Island Against Domestic Violence (LIADV).
Through my work with LIADV, I assisted in the managing of our crisis hotline providing counsel and support to victims of domestic violence and directing them to the appropriate services that would best fit their needs.
After receiving my bachelor’s degree in social work in May of 2022, I am now continuing with Stony Brook’s School of Social Welfare in pursuit of my master’s degree in social work. Upon graduation I hope to pursue licensure and work toward my goal of becoming a licensed clinical social worker.
When I am not doing school work I love to spend time with my Shiba Inu - Nova, read some thrillers on my kindle, and do my tarot readings for myself.
Through my experiences in counseling as a teenager, I was able to learn the coping skills I needed at the time to become the best version of myself. After seeing, living and feeling the reward of continuous self work and great connection with a therapist I knew that I wanted to provide that for someone else.
I strive to provide support to LGBTQIA+ clients. I am a proud member of this community and I am familiar with how challenging it can be to find a clinician that understands and empathizes with your experiences.
My specialized interests include working with teens and adults who have a history of sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. If you have experienced or are currently dealing with any of these issues please reach out as I would be honored to assist you through this journey of healing and self love.
I am a firm believer that every individual deserves compassion, empathy, and respect. I strive to provide that for you while also guiding you in providing those things for yourself.
Patricia Morris, MSW-C (she/her)
Background:
Hello! My name is Patricia Morris. I was born and raised on Long Island, New York. I like to think that I began my journey in human connection and outreach through my tenure as a yoga educator for over twenty-five years. In order to transition professionally into the role of a social worker, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Development from SUNY Empire State College. Furthermore, I am currently in my second year at Stonybrook University, pursuing a Masters of Social Work and Social Welfare, with an intended graduation date of May , 2023 .Following graduation, I intend to become an accredited clinician by obtaining my license.
Ingrained in me as a family value from a young age was the desire to help others. During my years as a yoga educator and business owner, I continued to nurture this path. Although I have entered this professional stratosphere later in life, I believe this is the work I have always been meant to do, and in fact, my life experience has gifted me greater insight, patience, and compassion.
In my work as an intern, I hope to apply my life and previous professional experience, as well as continuing to grow my skills in best serving others.
It is my deepest wish to work with victims of trauma, those suffering from addiction, and their families, and people who struggle various anxiety-related disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I feel grateful to be part of the Blossoming Lotus Therapy team and feel confident that I will develop, professionally and personally, during my time here. I am thankful for the opportunity and look forward to this challenging and rewarding work.
