Brendan Calamaro, LPCA

My name is Brendan Calamaro, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA).

I  believe that everyone deserves to have someone in their corner—someone who will listen without judgment, offer support, and help them navigate life's challenges. For me, counseling is about more than just talking through problems. It's about building genuine connections, recognizing personal strengths, and helping individuals find the confidence and tools they need to move forward.

I earned my Master of Science in Counselor Education from Central Connecticut State University, specializing in School Counseling, along with additional graduate training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Before entering the clinical counseling field, I spent over a decade working in education, supporting students with a wide range of academic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs. Those years taught me the importance of patience, understanding, flexibility, and, perhaps most importantly, meeting people where they are.

My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults in school-based counseling, outpatient mental health, and residential substance use treatment settings. Throughout these experiences, I have worked with individuals facing anxiety, depression, stress, behavioral concerns, relationship difficulties, substance use, and major life transitions. I understand that no two people experience life's challenges in exactly the same way, which is why I believe counseling should never take a one-size-fits-all approach.

My counseling style is collaborative, supportive, and person-centered. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while developing practical strategies for everyday life. I believe my role as a counselor is not to tell you what decisions to make, but to walk alongside you as we explore challenges, recognize strengths, and work toward goals that are meaningful to you.

One thing I have learned throughout my professional and personal experiences is that building trust and establishing a genuine connection can make all the difference. I consider myself approachable, compassionate, and easy to talk to. I also believe that a little humor, when appropriate, can go a long way in helping people feel comfortable. Counseling can involve difficult conversations, but it should also be a place where you feel accepted, respected, and comfortable being yourself.

 

Outside of counseling, I am a proud husband and father who enjoys spending time with my family. I have also spent the past 17 years directing middle school musical theater productions, along with coaching youth baseball and participating in community activities. Whether working with students on stage, coaching athletes on the field, or supporting clients in a counseling session, I have always enjoyed helping others recognize their potential, build confidence, and achieve things they may not have thought possible.

 

My goal is simple: to create a welcoming, supportive environment where you feel heard, valued, and understood. Life doesn't always go according to plan, and sometimes we all need a little extra support along the way. You don't have to have everything figured out before asking for help. We can work together, one step at a time.