Whitney Zirilli, LSW

“Feelings are much like waves, we can't stop them from coming but ​we can choose which ones to surf.”

—Jonatan Martensson

Education & Background

Whitney (she/her) brings over 20 years as a professional actor ​into her practice as a Licensed Social Worker. Whitney obtained ​her Masters degree in Social Work from Rutgers University after ​a decision to change careers. She has worked in both private ​practice and school settings and has experience working with ​adolescents and adults, in individual and group settings. ​Whitney’s work as an actor has given her a unique insight into ​the world of performing and she has a passion for helping those ​with performance anxiety. Whitney also has experience helping ​those dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, eating ​disorders and gender identity.

Approach

Whitney is an empathetic and warm practitioner that is a ​firm believer in the person in environment framework, ​unique to social work, believing that each individual ​requires a unique approach that takes their environment ​(family, community, society) into consideration. Whitney ​uses evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, ​Strengths Based Therapy, and Mindfulness to support her ​clients. Whitney creates a safe space for clients to ​collaborate on objectives and goals toward building a ​healthy life.