If you’re going through a major life change, feeling stuck, or simply trying to figure out what comes next, Claire Zarcone is passionate about helping you find your way forward. She especially enjoys working with people who are navigating life transitions, relationship changes, social anxiety, dual diagnosis, or difficult experiences that have left them feeling unsure of themselves or their next steps. Claire has a particular interest in working with people who may feel hesitant about therapy or never imagined themselves sitting in a therapist’s office.
Claire earned her undergraduate degree from UNC Asheville and her Master of Social Work from SUNY Brockport. Her diverse social work experience includes supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, individuals in recovery from substance use and dual diagnoses, and middle aged men who were hesitant to start therapy. These experiences have shaped her understanding of the many circumstances that can influence a person’s life and have reinforced her passion for providing therapy.
Starting therapy can feel uncomfortable, especially when you're sharing personal parts of your life with someone you've just met. Claire strives to make that experience feel natural, relaxed, and judgment-free. Her style is conversational, genuine, and occasionally humorous. She isn't interested in using complicated therapy language or giving you a list of things you "should" be doing. Instead, she will listen, ask thoughtful questions, and help you explore what is happening in your life while working together toward where you want to be.
Claire approaches therapy through a Person-in-Environment perspective, recognizing that our experiences are shaped by relationships, family, environment, life circumstances, and our own thoughts and emotions. She believes therapy is a space where you can put everything else aside for a while and have dedicated time to focus on yourself. Claire won't have all the answers, but she will be there to work alongside you as you find your own path forward.
Outside of work, Claire enjoys exploring the natural beauty of Western New York, visiting museums and coffee shops, and spending time with her husband and children. She loves board games, especially Ticket to Ride, video games like Minecraft, science fiction and fantasy books, and sci-fi movies and shows. She also believes that sometimes the best thing you can do is slow down, recharge, and simply enjoy life.