Welcome to
Begin Within
Counseling & Consultation
Nurturing Relationships Through Play
Experience the transformative power of play therapy, perinatal therapy, and parenting support. We specialize in providing a playful and innovative approach to professional counseling for children and their families who have experienced trauma or toxic stress.
About Us
Dear Parents, Congratulations on taking this important first step in finding a therapist for your child. We understand that this decision can be challenging and may come with a mix of emotions. Please rest assured that we are committed to handling your child's needs with the utmost care and compassion. Together, we will work towards a brighter and healthier future for your family.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I am dedicated to supporting children who have experienced trauma. My passion lies in creating a safe and nurturing environment where children can explore their feelings and express themselves through play. I believe in the power of therapy to help them heal and grow, guiding them on their journey with compassion and understanding.
Early Relational Health
Early relational health is crucial as it establishes the basis for strong relationships throughout life. It promotes emotional well-being and effective communication skills. fostering secure attachments, children develop resilience and empathy, leading to healthier social networks. Investing in this area benefits personal growth and strengthens community connections.
Our Services
Nurturing Care
Explore our comprehensive services focused on promoting early relational health, emotional well-being, and growth. From play therapy for children to perinatal therapy for expectant and new parents, we offer a range of specialized support to nurture healthy relationships.
Perinatal Therapy
Support for Parents
Perinatal therapy offers a safe space for expectant and new parents to navigate the emotional challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. It focuses on promoting mental well-being, building resilience, and strengthening family relationships.
Parenting Support
Personalized Support
While there is no secret handbook or guaranteed approach, we believe your relationship with your child is the best tool for success! Parenting support sessions offer guidance, encouragement, and practical tools to empower parents in promoting positive parent-child relationships. We believe in fostering a supportive environment for both parents and children.
Meet the Director
Dana Hillman-Sabato is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Play Therapist with over 16 years’ experience in children’s behavioral health and specializes in trauma, attachment, and relationship-based interventions. Dana is endorsed by the Connecticut Association for Infant Mental Health (CT-AIMH) as an Infant Mental Health Mentor-Clinical and a certified Perinatal Mental Health Specialist (PMH-C). Dana is trained in EMDR, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, TheraPlay, Circle of Security, Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB), Child Centered Play Therapy, and is a PeaceLove CREATOR, and Life is Good Playmaker. She is passionate about the use of play therapy and uses her training, with a foundation of attachment theory, to build meaningful, therapeutic relationships.
Dana is a member of the Association for Play Therapy (APT), and currently serves as the Conference Chair on the Board of Directors for the New England Association for Play Therapy.
Dana has presented on a variety of topics including early childhood attachment, early relational health, Play Therapy, and the impact of early childhood trauma on the developing brain.
Fees & Insurance
Transparency around policies and fees is an important part of our mission to offer equitable and inclusive services to folks.
Initial Assessment 60 min $195
These visits are typically 60 minutes, and include information gathering to help facilitate a collaborative conversation around your goals during our work together.
Session 45 min $150
Ongoing sessions are typically 45-50 minutes, and can be scheduled on a weekly or biweekly basis depending on your needs.
Insurance
If we are not in network with your insurance, we can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.