Jennifer Pugliese is a Licensed Master Social Worker who is passionate about helping adolescents and teens navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. She earned her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Connecticut, and her experience has given her a deep understanding of how structure, compassion, and individualized care can foster meaningful change. Drawn to this work by her passion for supporting young people, Jennifer helps clients uncover their strengths, work through challenges, and build the skills they need to thrive.

Jennifer’s approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and goal-oriented. She creates a safe and supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered. Her style balances encouragement with accountability, helping clients identify patterns and beliefs that may hold them back while building tools for resilience, growth, and self-awareness.

Jennifer primarily works with adolescents and young adults who are navigating issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, self-esteem, family dynamics, and life transitions. She has specialized experience working with individuals diagnosed with Autism, as well as with students in therapeutic boarding school settings, where she supported young people in developing structure, motivation, and independence while maintaining accountability.

In her clinical practice, Jennifer integrates evidence-based approaches to meet the unique needs of each client. She frequently uses Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to support emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to reframe unhelpful thought patterns. She also incorporates strengths-based, person-centered, and mindfulness practices to encourage resilience, growth, and self-awareness.

Jennifer is deeply committed to helping her clients feel supported, capable, and empowered as they work toward becoming the best versions of themselves. She believes in the power of self-discovery, growth, and the resilience that can emerge during challenging times.

Outside of the therapy room, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, cooking and experimenting with new recipes, staying active at the gym, and exploring creative outlets like crochet, DIY crafts, and baking (especially sourdough). She also loves discovering new coffee spots, traveling, and spending time outdoors.