Tess Stiffler, CAT-P

Tess Stiffler, CAT-P (she/her) is a Creative Arts Therapist who works with children and adolescents ages 3–18, with a special focus on processing traumatic experiences. Tess earned her bachelor’s degrees in Art Therapy and Pre-Dance/Movement Therapy from Seton Hill University before completing her master’s in Creative Arts Therapy at Nazareth University. Alongside training in Child-Centered Play Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Infant Mental Health, Tess integrates multiple expressive modalities into therapy to support emotional regulation and expression, positive self-image, and long-lasting healing. 

Tess values the ability of play, art, and movement to help young people communicate and process without having to rely on words that can be heavy and scary. Therapy sessions with Tess are child-led, as she values helping children find their own sense of choice and autonomy. Tess is dedicated to fostering a safe, fun, and engaging environment where kids can explore and express their feelings, process their life experiences, and build realistic coping skills. She values collaboration with families, schools, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure therapy supports each child holistically as they transition through all of life’s varied experiences. Outside of work, you can find Tess hiking and exploring our beautiful Western NY community, enjoying live music, or snuggling with her three cats.