About Stefan

I opened Transforward in 2019 to create a therapeutic space for people seeking healing and authenticity beyond past experiences and across identities. My approach centers somatic-based techniques to address trauma through emotional release and whole body processing, using modalities such as EMDR therapy, hypno-theraputic techniques or hypnotherapy, parts therapy, and nervous system regulation strategies that I've found to be profound in giving people relief and transformative experiences.

My lived experience navigating healing while drawing on experience with hundreds of individuals across varied identities and diagnostic presentations has shaped my practice.

My approach integrates evidence-based clinical modalities with transpersonal/holistic practices. I've witnessed how powerful it can be to work with both cognitive processing and these deeper somatic and experiential layers of the subconscious mind/body. Many clients find that addressing the whole system and parts of self, while leaning into somatic engagement can lead to significant reduction in symptoms and transformation.

I'm also committed to making this work accessible. That's why I accept Medicaid, insurance and offer sliding scale options.

My research prioritizes practice-based evidence, expanding the definition of valid healing knowledge to include intuition, emotional patterns, and diverse lived experiences. It also highlights neuroscience findings that increasingly validate long-standing holistic wisdom.

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Professional Background

I obtained my Master's degree in Social Work from Columbia University in 2015 and hold licensure as a Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina, New York, and Connecticut. I'm an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant, and a certified clinical hypnotherapist through the International Association of Counselors and Therapists. I earned my certification in hypnotic regression therapy under the guidance of psychiatrist Dr. Brian Weiss at the Omega Institute in New York.

My professional background includes diverse settings such as school social work, specialized clinics using TF-CBT, LGBTQ+ care, and forensic social work. I work with individuals, provide forensic social work services, offer group hypnotherapy and professional training, and continue to advance integrative therapeutic practices through both clinical work and research.

Areas of Specialization

My integrative approach addresses a wide range of concerns through a holistic lens that recognizes the interconnected nature of symptoms and healing. In my practice, I have worked with clients navigating the following diagnostic presentations: trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, neurodivergence, dissociative disorders, psycho-sexual conditions, and somatic symptom disorders, supporting clients in their journey toward wholeness and wellbeing.

Core Specializations:

  • Complex Trauma & PTSD

  • Sexual Trauma & Psychosexual Concerns

  • Anxiety & Nervous System Regulation

  • Emotional Balance & Wellbeing

  • Authentic Self-Discovery & Identity Development

  • Psycho-Somatic Relief from Physical/Medical Concerns

  • LGBT care including gender Identity & expression,

Therapeutic Techniques and Modalities

Groups

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