Virginia Ayres, Integrative Psychotherapist
Education
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Dickinson College BA
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Fordham University MA
Professional Activities and Memberships
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Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
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Alpha Sigma Nu Honor Society
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American Psychotherapy Association
Meditation Training and Experiences
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Davidji 40 Days of Transformation
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Deepok Chopra and Oprah Winfrey 21-Day Meditation Program (multiple participations)
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Silent Retreat and Meditation facilitated by Dr. Beverly Musgrave
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Clairvision School / Steven Sagan Knowledge Tracks (in process)
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Kundalini Yoga with Kimilla 10 Days of Transformation / Moving Meditation
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Judson Brewer "How to Tame the Craving Mind" Meditation Training with focus on binge eating and nicotine addiction
I hold an advanced license in alcohol and drug counseling. I have completed multiple years of training, and continue to learn innovative techniques and treatments to help clients make the changes they want to make. Utilizing personalized, innovative, and evidence-based techniques along with holistic modalities, I help clients achieve powerful change. Together, using a non-judgmental and collaborative approach, I help clients to set goals, identify triggers, develop coping skills, build resilience and regain confidence.
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I know firsthand the complex pieces that can lead you to live your life to the fullest. If you'd like to have a healthier relationship with your emotions, your partner, or your child, get in touch, I'd love to hear what you have to say.
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Licenses, Certifications, and Trainings
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Licensed Professional Counselor
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Licensed Alcohol and Drug
Counselor -
Board Certified PTSD Clinician
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Post-Master’s training in Adoption
Competency, University of Connecticut -
Specialty Certificate in Problem Gambling
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Kazdin Parenting Training (Yale Parenting Center)
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Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy Level 1 and Level 2
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Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy Level 1
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Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (multiple trainings)
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (multiple trainings)
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Somatic Experiencing Introductory Training
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Emotion Focused Therapy - Dr. Sue Johnson (in process)
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Corrective Attachment Therapy - Dr Terry Levy’s Attachment-based Family Therapy
Energy Trainings
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Jin Shin Jyutsu
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Arcturian Healing Method
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Akashic Record Reading (Soul Realignment© / Andrea Hess) Levels 1 & 2
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Spiritual Response Therapy Levels 1 & 2 (Spiritual Response Association)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC), and Board-Certified PTSD Therapist (BCPTSD) based in Darien, CT, I take a collaborative, trauma-informed, and nonjudgmental approach to mental health and healing. My work is grounded in ongoing training and a deep commitment to researching innovative, evidence-based methods that support lasting change.
In addition to traditional therapy, I specialize in Somatic Therapy—a body-centered approach that helps clients regulate the nervous system, release stored trauma, and reconnect with a sense of safety and presence. Techniques such as breathwork, mindful movement, and vagus nerve stimulation are integrated into sessions when appropriate, offering a more holistic path to healing.
By blending somatic practices with client-centered care and psychotherapeutic frameworks, I help individuals in Connecticut and New York experience meaningful transformation. My practice supports those navigating anxiety, addiction, trauma, relationship challenges, anger, and more. You can learn about the specific issues I address on the Areas of Focus page.