About Dawn Chirichella-Besemer, PsyD
We all go through struggles in life: the loss of a family member, partner, or friend; change in job or financial situation; parenting; dealing with the demands and stress of school and friends. Do any of these sound familiar? I am sure you can come up with many others, as well. What you have to remember is that the greatest struggle is the one you are dealing with right now…whatever that may be.
We manage these stressors all the while trying to find balance in our unsteady world.
There are times when we feel confident to tackle them, and other times when it all seems unbearable. It is not surprising that we may begin to feel overwhelmed and burdened, which can lead to feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, and in some instances, posttraumatic stress.
It has been throughout my professional and personal experiences that I come to enter this therapeutic journey with you. I am a New York State Licensed Psychologist, who for the past 22 years, has worked with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma and the challenges of life. Amazingly, these individuals have taught me about the resiliency of the human spirit and how dealing with life’s adversities can actually promote personal growth. I specialize in interpersonal (relational) trauma and posttraumatic stress, helping others find their strength to heal, even when they do not think it is possible. I believe that engaging in therapy is a personal investment in oneself, and that the therapeutic process entails a joint partnership between the therapist and patient to achieve one’s personal goals and mental well-being.
I understand making the decision to enter therapy can bring up many questions: What should I expect? Will I like my therapist? Will this actually help me feel better? I value these concerns and would welcome the opportunity to help you explore these questions and more, as we take the journey together. Establishing connections and making the commitment to yourself will be some of the greatest benefits you can receive.
If you are interested in learning more, click on the button to book a free consultation call.
Areas where I can be of help:
​
-
Interpersonal/Relational/Complex Trauma
-
Acute and Post-traumatic Stress
-
Depression
-
Anxiety
-
Anger
-
Relationship Difficulties
-
Managing Life Stressors
* NEW YORK PSYCHOLOGY LICENSE #017081 *
Photo by JBella Photography
Testimonials
​
"I have known Dr. Dawn Besemer for over 28 years in both a personal and professional manner. Dawn's warm personality and sincere nature give her an innate ability to connect to others. She has a passion for helping others and an authentic desire to understand another's perspective. The connections she makes allow her to hold space for others to explore themselves in a safe and nurturing way. Dawn has years of professional training and work experience that has empowered me personally to be my best and my life is better for having known her. Dawn is not only an esteemed professional but she is loving, quick to laugh and an overall beautiful human being!"
​
– K. D. M.
​
​
“Dr. Besemer is simply a wonderful soul. She has an amazing ability to listen, interpret, and connect with all people. Her educational background, combined with her humble nature, experience and love for people makes her the best of the best.”
​
– B. L. S.
​
​
"Dr. Besemer is insightful, compassionate, and sincerely empathetic. She is down to earth which provides comfort when speaking with her. She provides an honest assessment balanced by her kind heart."
​
– J. K.