Many clients are ill-equipped to manage their emotions, as they don’t often learn these skills in their family of origin, in American educational systems or society as a whole.  This then impacts their social functioning, both as individuals and in relationships with their children, co-workers, and society at large. Research has shown that chronic stress and inability to manage ones emotion has detrimental effects on mental health, physical health, interpersonal relationships and more. So licensed practitioners need to know and understand the importance of emotional regulation, relaxation and stress reduction techniques, so they not only manage their own stress/emotions well, but can model and teach healthy coping skills to their clients.

Amanda Kostura is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a Bachelor's of Psychology, a Minor in Child and Family Development, as well as a Master's of Social Work from the University of Akron. Her experiences in both direct practice and administrative positions have created expertise in treating anxiety, chronic health/pain and generational trauma. Amanda specializes in a mind-body approach for healing and optimal wellness. She has a strong passion for working with oppressed/disenfranchised populations including LGBTQ+ and people of color.