Olivia Russo, LMHC

My Path to Becoming a Psychotherapist

I have always found myself drawn toward listening to peoples’ stories and being curious about peoples’ inner worlds. This curiosity and drive toward connection evolved into a passion for psychology and mental health. Throughout my undergraduate academic career, I studied Applied Psychology alongside Gender and Sexuality Studies. This led me to continue using the social and cultural analytic lens developed in my undergraduate studies when I pursued my Masters in Mental Health Counseling. 

My approach toward counseling has been foundationally informed by interdisciplinary studies, which translates to my therapeutic work creating space for all of the complexities and nuances of life and identity, grounded in relational context.

Now, as a practicing clinician, I find so much value in the connections that I am able to make with clients as we co-create a supportive therapeutic relationship and space.

I have past experience working individually with survivors of domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and childhood sexual assault. Thus, trauma informed care and practices have been central to my approach to therapy since its foundation. I also have extensive experience supporting TGNC and queer individuals with varying gender identities, sexual orientations, and relationship styles. 

What types of challenges can I support you with?

I often work with folks who have histories of trauma and are navigating life transitions/stressors, relational issues, and/or aspects of identity, alongside their trauma histories. In particular, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA2S+ individuals with complex trauma, as well as survivors of interpersonal traumas (SA/IPV/DV/CSA). 

I work relationally and use trauma informed practices, including modalities like AEDP and EMDR, which work alongside our innate capacity for change and connection, to provide support through trauma processing, healing, and growth. 

In addition to trauma-specific work, I have experience supporting individuals in finding authenticity and creating mutual and reciprocal relationships through centering self-compassion and inner exploration. I’m also particularly passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals (Autism, ADHD, OCD) and folks navigating grief and loss. 

What is my philosophy and approach to counseling?  

My approach to therapy is based in the belief that therapy is a collaborative process, which begins with building a genuine relationship grounded in care and trust. Further, my lived experiences influence my therapeutic values, which take the form of neurodivergent-affirming and trans- and queer-affirming therapy. People I have worked with tend to describe my therapeutic style as relational, warm, and insightful. 

Relational Cultural theory acts as the foundation of my practice, which emphasizes the importance of connection, authenticity, and reciprocity within and across relationships and historical/cultural contexts. Complementary to this framework, I also utilize AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy), which is a trauma-informed, relational and somatic theory grounded in the belief that as humans we are wired toward connection and have an innate capacity for growth and change.  

Other theoretical frameworks that inform how I approach therapy include: disability justice, liberation psychology, harm reduction, existentialism, queer theory, and intersectionality. Drawing from multiple modalities and theoretical orientations, my work with each client tends to look a little different, depending on their needs/preferences/goals - I find it very important to check in often as we are building a collaborative therapeutic relationship. 

Who am I outside of sessions? 

I’m currently residing in Brooklyn with my long-term partner and our cat! When I’m not seeing clients, I spend my time connecting with my friends and community. I find a lot of value and meaning in tending to my friendships, and connecting with animals and nature. In addition to spending time with loved ones, I really enjoy exploring different parks and bookstores in NYC - I’m a huge reader! Music is also a huge part of my life, whether it’s listening to my favorite albums or going to concerts across the city! I would be remiss to not include my love for the WNBA and the New York Liberty in particular - I really enjoy being a part of the NY Liberty fan community in Brooklyn.