Claire Corbetta, LCSW

What I love about this work is helping my clients identify their strengths as well as counterproductive patterns in their relationships and the way they live their lives, so that they can live more aligned and fulfilling lives.

My approach is psychodynamic and relational. I look at each client as complex and unique, and I believe that one’s environment and lived experiences inform the present. I also integrate IRF (Inner Relationship Focusing) into my practice. IRF is a gentle, compassionate approach developed by Ann Weiser Cornell that is based on her study of Eugene Gendlin’s work. It supports the development of relationships between the whole self and inner states. With IRF, one learns to welcome one’s feelings, and make space for them, rather than push them away. By creating space for feelings and inner conflicts, one feels less stuck and the flow of life can resume its course. Simply put, “change comes with radical acceptance” (Ann Weiser Cornell).

My professional training, personal interests and lived experience continue to inform the way I understand my fellow humans. In particular, my own immigration experience 15 years ago has shaped the way I understand cultural dissonance and belonging vs alienation. This experience led me to specialize in issues stemming from immigration experiences and life changes. I also have extensive experience working with college students from diverse backgrounds and I enjoy tremendously helping young adults navigate adulthood and discover their next big steps in life.

I received a MA in English from The Sorbonne University, and a MSW in Social Work from Hunter College School of Social Work. I hold a LCSW license in New York State, and I continue to train in IRF with certified practitioners.