About the Therapist
Stephanie Fu Ballance, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Sometimes the patterns we fall into leave us feeling stuck or disconnected from others and from ourselves. Therapy can help you make sense of those experiences, heal what’s been holding you back, and move toward relationships that feel more secure, balanced, and fulfilling.
Hi, I’m Stephanie Fu Ballance, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC #12503). I work with individuals navigating life’s relationships—whether that’s with a partner, family, friends, or even yourself. My approach is grounded in attachment theory and trauma-informed care, helping you understand the patterns that shape your connections so you can build healthier, more fulfilling ones.
Before becoming a therapist, I was a high school English teacher, and that experience taught me so much about empathy and resiliency for teens and young adults. Today, I bring that same empathy and compassion in working with teens, young adults, and adults alike in navigating life’s challenges.
In our sessions, you’ll find a space where we can explore your experiences without judgment. Together, we’ll work through stress, past pain, and relationship challenges to help you reconnect with your sense of self and move toward the life you want to create - the life you deserve!
I integrate evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, trauma-focused therapy, and attachment-based work, often weaving in creativity and mindfulness to support healing in ways that feel authentic to you.
Outside the therapy room, I love traveling and learning about different cultures, spending time with my family and friends, and cooking pasta—because nourishment, connection, and joy matter in every form! Read onto the section below if you’re interested in learning more about me!
Just for Fun
Vulnerability is hard! Taking that first step to open up to a stranger can feel a bit daunting. Here are some questions to help you get to know the person behind the professional.
-
Absolutely! Think of this like a check up for your mind and heart or an oil change for your car. My anxiety creature is very strong and creative inside of me so giving her a safe space to get her “zoomies” out and a space to honor her is healthy and important!
-
Vanilla bean with a salted caramel swirl!
I am very client centered so I am dedicated to checking in on you and moving at a pace that is comfortable for you. I believe your feeling of safety and support is a pivotal part of the foundation of therapy just like the staple of classic vanilla ice cream. The purpose of therapy is to be able to heal and grow so when it’s time, we’ll add some “salt” - challenging some patterns that have not worked for you currently or in the past- and finally, sticking that sweet caramel of new behaviors that will help you achieve your therapeutic goals.
-
I really do like vanilla bean and salted caramel because I love the combo of salty and sweet! But, mint chocolate chip takes first place!
-
Beach! I do enjoy a good mountain trip but the water calls to me so I am definitely looking for a waterfall or lake when I’m in the mountains.
-
Sunsets! I love the colors of a sunset!
-
Football - big NY Giants fan! Go Big Blue!