Hello! I’m Chrisula Tasiopoulos, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with Specialized Therapy Associates. I come to STA with close to 15 years experience, specializing in working with adolescent and adult survivors of abuse and interpersonal trauma. My specialization has focused on survivors of sexual abuse, sexual assault, incest, domestic violence, child abuse, and neglect. I have also provided training to parents, church groups, professionals, educators, law enforcement, and others. I also have experience treating a wide variety of other concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and other life stressors.
Prior to coming to STA, I have managed sexual and domestic violence programs, as well as maintaining my own private practice. I thoroughly enjoy this work, as well as providing clinical supervision and mentorship to students and new clinicians. I possess both the Seminar in Field Instruction (SIFI) certification, as well as the Certificate in Clinical Supervision through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). I am a member of both NASW and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS).
I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, and utilize empowerment and relational approaches to therapy, as well as Cognitive Behavioral and Strengths Based approaches. I value diversity in all forms, including race, ethnicity, sexual identity and gender expression, and sexuality. I look at each person as a unique individual considering all factors that contribute to the issue at hand, and view therapy as a partnership with my client. I do my best to create a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel as comfortable as possible.
I received my Bachelor’s in Sociology and Women’s Studies at Montclair State University, and my Master’s in Social Work from New York University. After putting myself through college and graduate school, my passion and commitment to this work was fulfilled as a member of various committees and working groups related to both clinical and advocacy work, including the Governor’s Advisory Council Against Sexual Violence. I have also been a contributing author and chapter editor to “Sexual Violence and Abuse: An Encyclopedia of Prevention, Impacts, and Recovery” published in 2012.
I am currently an Instructor for the Rutgers School of Social Work, Institute for Families, teaching an annual post-graduate workshop on “Violence Against Women and PTSD” and “Clinical Presentations of Survivors” as well as a Part-Time Lecturer teaching an advanced graduate level clinical social work course, “Working with Survivors of Abuse and Trauma”. I have provided numerous trainings and workshops to professionals on a variety of issues. I am currently managing the Interpersonal Trauma Program here at STA.