Hi, I'm Daniela Trotman
Therapist, author, educator, and founder of Essence of Care Counseling
I'm a licensed clinical social worker and therapist who believes therapy should feel like a space where you can be honest about what's really going on.
I work one-on-one with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, identity, life transitions, and those seasons when you're simply trying to figure out what comes next. I especially enjoy working with young adults and women who are navigating the pressure to have everything figured out while learning more about who they are and what they want.
I believe therapy works best when it feels like a genuine relationship — honest, warm, collaborative, and occasionally light-hearted. My work is grounded in curiosity, compassion, and understanding the experiences that shape how we see ourselves and relate to others.
I'm not here to simply hand you a worksheet or sit quietly across the room. We'll work together to understand what's keeping you stuck and find tools and perspectives that actually fit your life.
You don't have to come into therapy knowing exactly what you need or having the perfect words to explain it. Whatever brought you here, we can start there.
Good to know
- Individual therapy only — kids, teens, and adults
- Focus areas: anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-esteem
- In person at 3095 Main Street, Stratford, CT — plus telehealth across Connecticut
My approach
I draw primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices — always adapted to you, never the other way around.

A good-fit conversation
Research consistently shows the biggest predictor of therapy success is the relationship between therapist and client. That's why every new client starts with a free consultation — so we can both see if it feels right.
Book your free consultAuthor & Social Work Educator
Alongside her practice, Daniela is an author and educator in the field of social work, supporting the next generation of therapists.
Visit Rooted and Informed