Chiara Diona, MS

About My Clients

I work with children, adolescents, and families navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral concerns, and life transitions. I have experience supporting youth in foster care, students with learning and emotional needs, and adolescents facing high-risk symptoms such as self-harm, suicidality, and substance use. I prioritize collaboration with parents and caregivers to strengthen family relationships and communication.

My Background and Approach

I am a doctoral student in the APA-accredited School-Clinical Child Psychology PsyD program at Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, where I also earned my M.S. in School Psychology. I have received training in hospital, school, community mental health, and child welfare settings, including Mount Sinai’s Child and Family Institute and JCCA. My integrative approach draws from cognitive-behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavior (DBT), and psychodynamic theories, always grounded in trauma-informed and culturally responsive care. I adapt evidence-based treatments to fit the developmental stage, identity, and personal goals of each client, balancing structured skill-building with space for deeper process-oriented work.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I believe therapy should be a collaborative process where clients feel safe, supported, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and goals. My goal is to help clients better understand themselves and create meaningful change in their lives. I value helping clients build both immediate coping skills and long-term insight, so they can navigate challenges with greater resilience and self-awareness.

Techniques I Use

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy

Issues I Treat

Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, Family Conflict and Relational Challenges