Darlene Kuzloski, LAC

What inspired you to choose a career in social work / professional counseling? 

I chose to become a professional counselor because I am inspired by the opportunity to help others. My journey towards becoming a professional counselor began when I started volunteering at a camp for children with special needs. This experience was incredibly rewarding and ignited my passion for advocating for individual needs. It eventually led me to become a teacher for children who struggled with emotional regulation and faced challenges with behavior. Witnessing my students making positive changes using their strengths inspired me to pursue my degrees in counseling, where I could make a broader impact by supporting individuals in identifying their strengths and learning coping skills to handle the challenges of life. 

Can you describe any therapeutic modalities or techniques you use in clinical practice? 

In my clinical practice, I offer a safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment, while using a variety of evidence-based modalities and therapeutic techniques to support my clients. Working with children from ages 3-21 as well as adults, I believe every individual is unique and has the ability to reach their best potential by having a nurturing environment to develop skills. Using an integrative therapeutic approach helps to meet each individual's needs. Commonly used modalities include Strengths-Based therapy, Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused therapy including Polyvagal techniques. The therapeutic process can include movement, play, sand tray techniques and teaching the importance of noticing physiological feelings when feeling challenging emotions. I strongly believe in focusing on the mind-body connection, building awareness of energetic states while linking these bodily feelings with their emotions. 

How would you describe your approach in practice?

Practicing curiosity, empathetic understanding and engagement, I help clients develop a personalized toolbox and proactive regulation plan, which can also be taught to caregivers for younger clients. I truly believe that every human can learn techniques to help them identify their strengths and navigate the challenges of life. My approach in my practice includes teaching clients how their brain works so they can become in charge of regulating themselves. They will learn techniques to identify their strengths, learn coping skills on how to handle strong emotions, and develop the language to communicate their feelings. This sensory awareness will help clients understand how their feelings can be connected to how their body reacts. The more attuned clients become to the mind-body connection the more successful they will feel in balancing life. This comprehensive approach ensures that clients have the resources and support they need to manage their emotional well-being

 What’s a hobby or interest you enjoy outside of work? 

My favorite things to do outside of work include spending time with my family and friends, going to the beach, exercise, meditation, and travel.

Do you have a favorite book, movie, song or quote that inspires you?  

One of the many quotes that inspires me is “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” by A.A. Milne. Life can be challenging and sometimes it just takes someone to help you realize that you are worthy and have the capability to navigate the difficulties of life.