Stephen Hanmer D’Elia, LMSW

I am a warm, attuned therapist experienced in working with children, adolescents, and parents. I also work with adult individuals. I use a relationally-focused and client-centered approach that incorporates sensory motor awareness. In close partnership with parents/caretakers, I help children and adolescents:

  • Increase self-awareness and self-knowledge

  • Expand connection with themselves and others

  • Heal from painful experiences and memories

  • Experience a more regulated, integrated, and fulfilling life

I guide my clients through this process with active listening, sensitivity, insight, and kindness.

I am trained in Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment (SMART), which utilizes a sensory motor framework in helping children and adolescents build regulation and capacity for attachment. I’m also trained in Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), which helps children and parents strengthen bonds and build greater acceptance of self and others. I’ve led groups in Parenting Journey, an evidence-based parenting group that provides a uniquely nurturing space where parents can develop self-awareness, knowledge and skills to become more attentive to themselves and their children. I am certified in the Safe and Sound Protocol, an evidence-based therapeutic tool designed to help regulate the nervous system and increase a person’s capacity to perceive cues of safety.

For 24 years I have led, designed, and implemented policies, programs, and direct clinical work with children, teens, and families. Prior to seeing clients in private practice, I provided individual and group counseling in a mental health clinic and inpatient psychiatric unit. I have also led and managed programs for children and adolescents nationally and globally.

I earned my B.A from Yale University and M.S.W. from Columbia University School of Social Work, graduating with honors in a clinically-focused concentration, and also have a law degree (J.D.) from Columbia University.

I am a native speaker of Spanish and English. Born in Colombia, I hold Uruguayan, American, and British citizenships and have lived and worked in over 20 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and North Africa.

I am available for a free 15-minute consultation and can be reached at stephen@mindfultherapybrooklyn.com  or 917-740-9453.