Steve Costello, PsyD

Pronouns

He/Him

Education

• PsyD, Clinical Psychology, William Paterson University (2024)

• MA, Clinical Psychology, William Paterson University (2022)

• BA in Psychology, Fairfield University (2011)

Services Offered

• Psychological Testing

• Individual Psychotherapy

Ages I Work With

• 18+

Clinical Interests

My major clinical interests in therapy relate to anxiety. Within anxiety, I'm especially interested in how anxiety impacts decision-making during uncertainty. In testing, my primary focus is refining interpretation of performance assessments to better differentiate ADHD from other mental-health conditions that affect attention, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

Therapy Approaches I Use

The main treatments I provide are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and narrative therapy,  . Interventions from other approaches are integrated based on fit with client's preferences.

Areas of Specialization

I enjoy being a generalist and working with folks with a wide range of presenting concerns. I most often see individuals who are managing symptoms of depression, anxiety,  and trauma. I also like working with people who are exploring various aspects of their identities or who are moving through large life transitions.

My Decolonized/Anti-Oppressive Lens

I see therapy and testing as collaborative processes, with clients as the experts on their own lived experiences. Psychology has often prioritized research on upper-middle-class white men and upheld Western values as the norm, limiting its relevance for many in turn. I talk openly with clients about these limitations and draw on evidence-based approaches in ways that are flexible, respectful, and responsive to each person’s cultural context and values.

What I Hope Clients Feel After Working With Me

A sense that hard things can be done in safe spaces.

Why I Chose This Work

I couldn't imagine being anything other than a clinician. As far as why clinical psychology, I always loved puzzles as a kid and behavior seemed like a natural progression of that interest.

What I Enjoy Outside of Work

Some of my favorite things include eating at new restaurants, reading fantasy books, and playing ping pong. My best soccer days are behind me, but I've been trying to get into becoming a Loons fan.

My Favorite Quote

I like the concept of impermanence, so I've always been a fan of "This too shall pass."