Patrick Connelly, LCSW
Why Patrick Specializes in Relationships
Patrick believes in long-term, healthy, vibrant relationships. The kind of relationship that is based on respect, fondness, and admiration for each other, while encouraging and supporting continued growth in both persons. He has spent the past 20+ years in such a relationship, and continues to be amazed at the countless ways it has enriched his life.
Patrick is deeply committed to helping others create their own vibrant, healthy, lasting relationships. He has worked with many couples struggling with a decline in marital satisfaction. The busy demands of life today can take their toll on a couple, and can make finding time to connect very difficult. Patrick’s hope is that the help and tools he offers couples in therapy will empower them to experience greater relationship stability and joy.
Background
Patrick feels fortunate in his career as a social worker and psychotherapist to have worked in a variety of community and private mental health settings and in higher education. He has provided outpatient individual, family, couples, and group therapy, as well as residential and intensive day treatment. In addition to his counseling role, he has directed counseling programs, clinically supervised therapists and students, and provided education on mental health and substance abuse topics. He has experience, interest, and success working with both men and women and with adolescents and adults of all ages.
Over the years, and with each work experience, he’s become increasingly skilled in helping people sort through the complexities of their everyday lives and focus on making lasting positive change, both personally and in their relationships. He feels excited and satisfied to see others move towards the things they want out of life!
Specialized training has also enhanced Patrick’s capacity to help couples find viable solutions to their problems. He has significant experience assisting individuals, families, and couples dealing with mental health, substance abuse, and past abuse & trauma issues. Regardless of the presenting issues, however, his objective as a psychotherapist is to empower people to embrace their self-identified goals and gain more fulfillment in their lives.
Education, License, and Certifications
- Master of Social Work – Virginia Commonwealth University, 1995
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers, 1998
- Member of the National Association of Social Workers
- Certified Gottman Therapist
For several years Patrick worked and trained with The Gottman Institute. This training provides a sound, research-based approach to helping couples in any stage of a relationship, from new love to those wrestling with possible separation and divorce.