My Story

Hello, I’m Marie Altavilla, and I am eager to begin my career as a Therapist at Roots & Resilience Wellness. During my internship here under the supervision of Nicole Serini LMHC-D, I walked beside my clients as we processed and explored their mental health struggles and concerns. 

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During my master’s level coursework at St. Bonaventure University and in my year of internships, I have treated an array of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Complex PTSD. I have worked with those experiencing grief, loss, and a history of abuse. Currently, I am working on advanced training to work with individuals with Autism and their family members who may need support with this diagnosis. I am thrilled to transition from a long-time elementary school teacher and military spouse into the mental health field. For over twenty-five years, I taught kindergarten through grade eight students across our great country and volunteered with soldiers and Army families at each stop along the way.  As a teacher, my goal was always to teach the minds and touch the hearts of each of my students. Over the years, it was incredibly rewarding to work with many young people and their families. I learned as much from them as they did from me, and my time as an educator was more personally and professionally fulfilling than I ever originally dreamed it would be.

I will always have a teacher’s heart, but now feel called to work with children, adults, and families in a way that will socially and emotionally equip them for their futures. As I gained a deeper understanding of learning differences, the struggles faced by some families after the pandemic, and the need for people to be heard in the noise of our world, I was drawn to working with children and adults on a more individual level.

As a Therapist, I aim to be a listening and understanding ear, allowing clients to be heard and understood in a safe place and apart from distractions. By affirming my clients' feelings in their struggles and joys of life, I hope to help bring peace, guidance, and understanding.