Emily Breno, LCSW
Anxiety & Trauma Therapist in Madison, CT
My approach
My path into this work has been both professional and deeply personal. I’ve always been drawn to what lives beneath the surface. The quiet patterns, the unspoken experiences, the ways we learn to carry more than we often realize.
At the center of my work is creating a space that feels steady and grounded. Where you can begin to make sense of your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and move forward in a way that feels more aligned and true to you.
What I help with
Our work together will center around what feels difficult to carry alone. We will explore the patterns that repeat, the reactions that feel out of proportion, and the internal tension that doesn’t seem to fully settle.
Together, we focus on understanding and gently shifting what’s underneath, creating space for more steadiness, clarity, and ease.
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Anxiety that keeps the mind active and the body on edge
Emotional overwhelm or feeling easily triggered in certain situations
Relationship dynamics that feel confusing, draining, or hard to navigate
Lingering effects of past experiences that continue to shape present reactions
A sense of disconnection from yourself or difficulty feeling grounded
Grief and life transitions that feel difficult to move through
What can change
The constant mental noise starts to quiet.
Reactions feel less immediate, less overwhelming.
There’s more space between what happens and how it’s experienced.
Situations that once felt activating may feel easier to move through.
Patterns become clearer and no longer feel as automatic or out of control.
Relationships can feel less confusing and more intentional.
Boundaries become easier to recognize and hold.
Through approaches such as EMDR and Brainspotting, deeper processing can occur- often allowing shifts in symptoms to happen more efficiently than traditional talk therapy alone.
Training & Background
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Connecticut with over two decades of experience working across a range of mental health settings, including residential programs, community-based care, and private practice. My background includes both direct clinical work and leadership roles, which has shaped a thoughtful and well-rounded approach to therapy.
I hold a Master of Social Work from Springfield College, where I was a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Saint Joseph.
Throughout my career, I have worked with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, substance use, and complex mental health needs. I have also held clinical leadership positions, including Clinical Director and Program Manager roles, where I oversaw treatment programming, provided supervision, and supported both clients and clinical teams.
My clinical training includes EMDR and Brainspotting, with a focus on approaches that support deeper processing and lasting change. I continue to engage in ongoing professional development, consultation, and peer collaboration to ensure my work remains thoughtful, current, and responsive to each client’s need.
