About Us
Allow me to introduce you to Vasti Cedeño, MA, MSW, LCSW, ADHD-CCSP – a dedicated and licensed clinician/therapist at the helm of LifeWork Counseling. What sets Vasti apart is her unique perspective as a neurodivergent, first-generation, plus-size Latina. Her unwavering commitment to empowering others to embrace radical acceptance is both evident and inspiring.
Drawing from a deep well of experience and expertise, Vasti specializes in aiding adults grappling with a range of challenges. These encompass issues related to embodiment, the development of emotional intelligence, trauma and PTSD, ADHD, and anxiety disorders. A significant portion of Vasti’s clientele wrestles with self-love and carries burdensome relationships with their bodies. Her mission is to gently guide them toward healing and self-discovery.
Within the welcoming confines of her practice, Vasti’s warmth and compassion create a safe and inclusive space for clients to embark on journeys of self-exploration. She firmly believes in the transformative power of self-compassion and self-understanding, enabling individuals to not only accept but also celebrate their uniqueness while thriving. If you’re in search of a therapist who not only comprehends your struggles but also celebrates your individuality, Vasti Cedeño is here to provide unwavering support on your path to personal growth and self-acceptance.
Our Approach
We recognize that each person’s path to mental wellness is as unique as they are. This understanding is at the heart of our approach, where we tailor our therapy to align with your individual story, challenges, and aspirations. Our commitment is to work collaboratively with you, using a multi-modality approach to create a therapeutic experience that is both effective and personally resonant.
Our therapy methods encompass a range of proven approaches, each chosen and adapted to support your specific journey:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This action-oriented approach helps in accepting what is out of your personal control and committing to actions that enrich your life.
- Body Positive Therapy: Focused on building a positive body image and combating negative perceptions and societal pressures related to physical appearance.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A widely respected approach that addresses negative patterns of thought and behavior, fostering more positive and productive thinking and actions.
- Shame-Resiliency Therapy: Aimed at helping individuals confront and overcome debilitating feelings of shame, encouraging a healthier, more empowered self-concept.
- Psychodynamic Therapy: This approach delves into how past experiences, particularly from early childhood, shape current behaviors and emotions.
- Trauma-Focused Therapy: Specialized therapy aimed at understanding and addressing the complex impact of trauma on both the mind and body.
- And Many More… Our repertoire of therapeutic techniques extends beyond these core methods. We incorporate elements from various other approaches, including mindfulness-based strategies, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy, ensuring a comprehensive and flexible approach to your mental health.
Each therapy method we offer is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to understanding your unique perspective. We don’t just apply therapies; we adapt them to fit you. Your goals, your strengths, and your journey form the foundation of our work together. Let us join you on your path to healing, growth, and a fulfilling life.
Our Clinicians
Vasti Cedeño
MA, MSW, LCSW, ADHD-CCSP
Meet Vasti (pronounced V ah s-tee), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey known for her dynamic and unconventional approach. With a wealth of experience spanning all age groups, her true passion lies in helping young professionals and adults navigate life’s challenges. Vasti specializes in treating a range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety disorders, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), PTSD, and Depression.
Vasti’s journey in the field of mental health began as a crisis response worker for NJ Children’s Mobile Response Services. From there, she transitioned to working with individuals coping with severe persistent mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and psychotic disorders, taking on the role of a group therapist at a partial day program. It was during this time that her passion for the psychopharmacological aspects of treatment took root. Subsequently, Vasti dedicated several years to working extensively with teenagers as a school-based therapist.
For a four-year period, Vasti served as a medical clinical social worker with a specialization in helping Military Veterans dealing with PTSD, Severe Mental Illnesses, and Dementia Disorders. Her deep appreciation for and knowledge of psychopharmacology expanded significantly through her close collaboration and coordination with prescribers to stabilize Veterans. During the challenging pandemic years, Vasti continued to serve as an essential worker in a long-term healthcare facility. Her dedication was marked by advocacy for transparency, improved medical treatment, and fighting for families to have access to their loved ones during these trying times.
In late 2022, Vasti made the difficult decision to step away from healthcare and return to working with high school students, where her heart found renewed purpose.
As a clinician offering telehealth therapy services through other platforms, Vasti’s passion for private practice grew rapidly as she was able reach more individuals and help! Vasti now operates as the owner and director of LifeWork Counseling, as well as also provides other clinicians guidance and supervision in starting their own private practices.
Can LifeWork help you or a loved one?