Our Team: Compassionate Therapists (Ithaca, NY)

Jessica Massaro, LCSWR, CST, (New York licensed), Owner & Clinical Director of Compassionate Connections Sex & Couples Counseling, LCSW, PLLC, is a kink & fetish affirming relationship therapist and her goal is to help folx within partnered relationships (couples and CNM relationships), address concerns with their communication, create intimacy and connection, reignite chemistry, and provide sex education, because you CAN have the pleasure-filled life you're seeking. Jessica also supports individuals hoping to address their relationship with intimacy, sex, erotic connection or shame associated with sex and sexuality. Jessica is trained in Solutions Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is rooted in Attachment Theory, and Imago Relationship Therapy to support her clients. Jessica is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and she is also a member of AASECT, ISSM & SMSNA.

Cara Cole, LCSW, LCSW-C (New York, Texas & Maryland licensed) is a kind and empathetic therapist who believes in supporting couples & families during life's transitional periods. Cara is a Gottman therapist by style and Level 2 Gottman Certified Therapist. Cara specializes in individual & couples therapy for blended families, step-family/ co-parenting dynamics, motherhood, pregnancy, postpartum and the ever changing relationship one has with themselves and their bodies post shift in identity from self to parent/ partner and ideally reclaiming of the self again. Cara also has a special place in her heart and a special understanding for military families as this has been part of her own personal identity story.

Aimee Emmrich, LMHC, LPC (Arizona, California, New York licensed) is a compassionate therapist who loves providing care and support to couples and individuals. Aimee specializes in bereavement therapy, couples struggling with communication and intimacy concerns, women who are child free, and highly sensitive individuals. She has many years of training and expertise with helping individuals manage anxiety symptoms including phobias, panic attacks, and generalized anxiety. Aimee has a strong passion for helping those who are grieving due to a traumatic death, and has the ability, skills, and space to help them move through the process. Aimee has also participated in multiple trainings on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and recently completed The Compassionate Bereavement Care Certification.

Courtney MaeRose, LCSW (New York) values cultivating safety in our bodies and relationships regardless of gender, weight, or size. She specializes in working with Queer and Trans populations, at various life stages. In addition, Courtney has experience with infertility, IVF/IUI support and queer family planning. Courtney recognizes the unique perspective of queer relationships and the importance of considering the impact of both individual and societal factors.

Utilizing a fat empowerment approach, Courtney welcomes both individuals and couples  to explore their sexuality at all body sizes. Courtney can offer support to fat folx looking to feel more at ease within their bodies. Understanding and honoring different body sizes during sex, self advocacy, improving intimate partner communication and more. Courtney's approach centers on somatic therapy, Internal Family Systems approach, and mindfulness. 

Melissa is a passionate client advocate with a holistic understanding of the medical, social, behavioral, economic, and vocational concerns that can impact us all. Melissa has long worked in the behavioral health field supporting clients in accessing the care they need. She has often been the first point of contact for clients seeking care and she is happy to support you in answering any questions you may have about our policies and procedures, insurance, and will even help you determine which therapist may be the best fit for you. Please don't hesitate to reach out!