Tonia A. Zarrella, LMHC: Founder & Psychotherapist(MA & RI)

About Me:

I'm a native New Yorker who put down roots in Massachusetts after receiving my Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology from Tufts University, and my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology (with a focus in Mental Health Counseling) from Cambridge College.  I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. 

I take pride in lifting up and encouraging women. I am passionate about and trained to work with and support pregnant/new moms experiencing perinatal mood disorders as well as individuals who have experienced trauma.  Throughout my clinical career, I have expanded my clinical expertise to include complimentary and alternative therapies including Reiki, Meditation and Trauma-Informed Yoga. 

Deciding to make life changes can be scary and intimidating, but you can do it! I invite you to resist the urge to wait, show up for yourself, and take a step toward creating the life that you want by engaging in therapy. Allow me to help you change the way you think about yourself, your circumstances, your future, and regain your clarity of mind and confidence.

When I'm not at Bloom Into Wellness:

As a wife and mom of three, I spend the bulk of my time focusing on the needs of my family, while making time for my own self-care, which includes meditation, writing, and enjoying a great meal out.

Hobbies/Interests:

I have a wanderlust spirit and enjoy exploring the world through travel, whether in-person, by the pages in a book, or research online. I admittedly binge-watch Reality TV for personal pleasure and to sharpen my psychoanalytical skills.

Fun Facts About Me:

I can't swim, but I love the water, and I'm determined to learn one day.  I love naps! 

About Me:

I am from Massachusetts and have learned to adapt to change as the weather is always changing. My favorite time of year is autumn because I love the changing colors of the leaves. I believe that my childhood years and early adulthood experiences were preparing me for my life’s purpose to be a mental health counselor. 

I spent twenty-five years as a Residential Director of a residential school for children with behavioral and emotional issues and gained a great deal of experience working with children and families in a therapeutic setting. I also learned how to navigate the academic world of writing Individual Educational Plans and helping parents to obtain the services that were needed for their child.  

I decided to return to college to complete my undergraduate degree at Worcester State College and while there I published and presented a research study on Successful Aging. I completed my graduate studies at Framingham State University and while working at a community mental health agency I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and continued to work for that agency for the past seventeen years. I have a great deal of experience working with children, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds via in home family therapy, outpatient individual and group therapy. I have earned a certificate in the Attachment, Regulation and Competency (ARC) framework as well as in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have many years of providing trauma-informed care to children and adults using a strengths-based approach where I focus on developing a strong therapeutic relationship in which children and adults feel safe, respected, and are encouraged to collaborate on what works best for them. I also have many years of experience working with those in need of court ordered services and teaching groups related to substance use. 

I am experienced and trained in the areas of anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, substance use, and life phase changes. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach which allows for flexibility and allows me to use the most effective methods available to address each individual client’s needs. I am passionate about being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and enjoy helping others to make positive changes during the many seasons of their life experience.     

When I'm not at Bloom Into Wellness:

I enjoy sitting down to a home cooked meal with my husband who can cook the best tasting Middle Eastern cuisine. Our house is always full of family when they know he is cooking. We also enjoy sharing our home with our five cats-Gigi, Sox, Boots, Misha and Sasha who bring us so much love and laughter. When we are not home we are out visiting friends and family enjoying our time together.

Hobbies/Interests:

I enjoy creating jewelry that represents a special occasion, motivation or hope for others. I also like to get lost in the pages of a good true crime story while baking chocolate chip cookies for my husband.

Fun Facts About Me:

I spent a week in the earthen sanctuary of Sedona Arizona traveling on a Harley Road King taking in the inexplicable beauty of the age-old-rock formations and brought one little red rock home with me.  

About Me:

As  a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working both individually and in groups, with children, teens, adults as well as families, I create a safe space so each client can fully access each part of themselves, facilitating self-compassion and acceptance. It is only when we can fully see and accept ourselves that we can create space for transformation and connect with our own resiliency.  

My practice is rooted in the belief that the body and mind are connected, and these connections are influenced by our relationships with others and the larger systems within which we live. Thus, my approach is heavily grounded in neurobiology, attachment and systems theory and I have been trained in modalities which reflect these theoretical orientations.  I have completed trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Based Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). 

I specialize in treating the legacy that trauma - in all its forms - leaves, such as chronic anxiety, depression, and substance use.  I also have specialized training in working with those who have felt marginalized in their communities, particularly those who are questioning their sexuality or gender identity.  

I have worked in various settings including community health centers, hospitals and as a direct clinician, supervisor and clinical instructor at Masters-level programs. I look forward to working with you on your transformative journey. 

When I'm not at Bloom Into Wellness:

I love spending time playing with my mini schnauzer and connecting with the rest of my family and friends. 

Hobbies/Interests:

I love to spend time outdoors whether that's going to the beach, hiking or just playing tag with my niece and nephew. I also enjoy reading and exercising to unwind.

Fun Facts About Me:

My dream is to learn how to surf.

About Me:

My journey to becoming a therapist began after graduating from Framingham State University.  I was employed at a residential treatment program for at-risk teenage girls, and decided to return to UMASS Boston where I earned a graduate degree in Counseling Psychology.  For the past five years, I have worked at an outpatient community agency providing counseling and case management.

My clinical background includes working individually with clients of all ages as well as with entire family units. The majority of my clients seek out therapy for help with anxiety and depressive disorders, but I also have experience treating anger disorders, and substance abuse disorders.

When I'm Not at Bloom Into Wellness:

You can find me traveling to new places and trying new restaurants with my girlfriend and family. When I am not on the go, I am usually at home cooking, watching a movie, or reading.

Hobbies/Interests:

I enjoy reading, movies, and music. I am an avid musician and have been playing music since I was 5 years old--starting with the drums and moving to the guitar. 

Fun Facts About Me:

I am an avid collector of various things from guitars to colognes. 

About Me:

I grew up in the mountains of upstate New York in the Lake George area. I moved to Ohio for college at Kettering College of Medical Arts and later moved back east to Massachusetts.  I graduated from  Atlantic Union College with a B.S. Degree in Psychology and  Framingham State College with a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology.  I also attended Fitchburg State University to take a few added courses in the field of Counseling and Psychology.

For the past 19 years I have been a mental health clinician  at an outpatient community agency providing counseling and case management.  For the past 5  years my responsibilities expanded to include administrative duties.  Also for two 1/2 years I was a part time instructor at Atlantic Union College teaching Psychology of Personality, Counseling Principles and Techniques,  Introduction to Psychology and Crisis Intervention.  I also maintained a small private practice there as well as being the campus counselor. 

I am happy to work with clients who have a variety of issues.  I have a special interest in working with individuals with eating disorders, dissociation, and trauma. I use an eclectic approach to that seeks to directly meet the client and their needs by drawing from multiple therapy approaches in order to select the best treatment for each individual client.

When I'm Not at Bloom Into Wellness:

Outside of work is usually busy....with the necessary activities of daily living. I cook, clean, and take care of four cats, three of whom weigh over 15 pounds.  They are big boys!.  And as I have time I  make attempts to  work on a book I am writing entitled "The Hammer on the Rafters".

Hobbies/Interests:

I very much enjoy being with my family. who live near me.  I also enjoy riding through the mountains of the of New England in My Ford Ranger. I enjoy cooking, baking, reading and traveling back home every other weekend to my family in upstate New York.  I am also a writer and enjoy posting an inspiration devotional on line daily. I play the piano and organ.

Fun Facts About Me:

I love watching Christmas movies,  My favorite is "A Christmas to Remember"! and  "The Christmas Wish" with Debbie Reynolds and Neal Patrick Harris.

About Me:

I am a proudly LGBTQ+ Licensed Certified Social Worker who provides outpatient therapy to adults and couples struggling with depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, traumatic histories, LGBTQIA+ issues, and interpersonal relationship problems. 

I earned a Bachelor’s of Fine Art degree from Tufts University prior to graduating with a Master’s of Social Work degree (with a specialization in trauma and interpersonal violence) from Simmons University. My clinical experience has been primarily focused on working with folks with significant trauma histories and/or members of the LGBTQIA+ community. 

   I am a trauma-focused, strengths-based therapist with experience working with folks from diverse backgrounds. In my work, I utilize a variety of clinical modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy. With specialized trauma training in neurobiology, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care, I approach my work by building strong and trusting relationships with my clients. 

My prior clients would describe me as warm, welcoming, compassionate, and well-researched. You can expect me to show up fully and authentically in my therapeutic work. I believe that you are the expert on your life and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to support you in moving towards a more joyful, authentic, and whole-hearted way of living. I consider this work to be a true privilege.

When I'm Not at Bloom Into Wellness:

Therapist by day, I am a practicing artist by night. I love to paint landscapes and spend time outdoors with my German Shepherd named Libby. I am highly creative person who is often learning a new craft!

Hobbies/Interests:

I enjoy painting landscapes and portraits, cycling, spending time in nature with my dogs, reading and cooking

Fun Facts About Me:

Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked in a corporate setting as a business analyst!  

About Me:

I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker with a passion for helping others find relief from their struggles with mental health; including, depression, anxiety, anger, emotional regulation, self-confidence, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, intrusive thoughts, trauma, and crisis. I work with adolescents and adults in both group and individual settings and welcome folks from all backgrounds. I am particularly versed in serving those looking for support with suicidality, LGBTQIA+ issues, personality disorders and men’s issues.  

I received a master's degree in Social Work from California State University Stanislaus, a traditionally Hispanic-serving institution with a curriculum rooted in social justice. No person developed in a vacuum; we are all influenced by the complex environments we grew in and exist in today. I believe understanding the environmental factors that weigh on each of us and how they influence our everyday lives, is key to overcoming our personal struggles and finding a sense of control over our own lives. 

Knowing that each person and the environmental factors that shaped them are unique, I use an array of therapeutic modalities to meet an individual's needs. I have studied and regularly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Acceptance And Commitment Therapy. 

When I'm Not at Bloom Into Wellness:

In my other, non-therapist, life I am an avid outdoorsman, fly fisherman, and canoeist. In the years before I pursued my master's degree, I spent many seasons as wilderness guide and tripping instructor both on and off the water. I love exploring any stretch of coastline and am always looking for an excuse to leave the screens and venture into the backcountry. 

Hobbies/Interests:

I love the outdoors, cycling, board games, adventure novels, and playing fetch with my dog Tofu. 

Fun Facts About Me:

I love inventing games. Board games, role playing games, card games to use in therapy and just for fun. 

About Me:

I have seven years of experience in mental health billing and administration. Additional skills include obtaining pre-authorization with insurance, credentialing, scheduling, customer service, and social media content creation. Helping people is a passion of mine! 

When I'm not at Bloom Into Wellness:

I live in Central Florida and work remotely for Bloom Into Wellness. I live on a lake with my boyfriend Evan who trains Olympic level sprinting athletes at the National Training Center. We have two chihuahuas, Opal and Onyx. We enjoy gardening together, cooking with food and herbs we grow, and traveling as much as we can!

Hobbies/Interests:

Gardening;  Collecting art;  Cooking and trying new cuisine;  Traveling; Spending time with family

Fun Facts About Me: 

I was actually born in New London, CT and many of my family members live in MA. I moved to Florida in 2005 and I really enjoy visiting up North every chance I get. 

JaTorra Commodore is a native New Yorker who now resides in Connecticut and is a proud wife and mom to two teenagers. She is an educator of 20 years turned transformational life coach and mindfulness and meditation instructor. She holds a BA in Psychology and MA in Curriculum and Instruction. JaTorra guides others in mindfulness, meditation, and mindset practices that support the mind-body-spirit connection. She supports her clients through taking back their life and living in the NOW, which in turn reduces stress and overwhelm and helps beat burnout. She is the author of the book Priority You: The Art of Taking Back Your Life as a Teacher, which details tools and strategies for helping educators through stress, overwhelm, and beating burnout. JaTorra is also the founder of the up and coming Priority You Passion Project. She hopes to be a catalyst for change in how we look at mental health and taking care of our overall well-being. She enjoys living a life of freedom and purpose, traveling, writing and the beach is her happy place.

To learn more about JaTorra, please visit CommodoreCoaching.com