Erin Wininger, LPC

Feeling stuck doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means something needs attention.

For many teens and young adults, life is overwhelming. Academic pressure, anxiety about the future, relationship stress, or big transitions leave you feeling anxious, disconnected, or unsure of your next step.

For parents, it’s painful to watch your child struggle and not know how to help—or to feel like every conversation turns into conflict or worry.

You might be asking yourself (or your teen might be asking themselves): Why does everything feel so hard right now? How do I move forward without feeling so overwhelmed?

What you really want is clarity, balance, and a sense of confidence—knowing that challenges are manageable and that you (or your child) have the tools to handle what comes next.

I CAN HELP.

I work with teens, young adults, and parents who are navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, school-related stress, and major life transitions. Many of the people I work with feel stuck or uncertain at first, but over time, therapy becomes a space where they reconnect with their strengths and begin to trust themselves again.

With more than 20 years of experience as a middle and high school counselor, I bring a deep understanding of adolescence, family dynamics, and the pressures students face both in and out of school. I also have a strong background in college and career exploration, including postsecondary planning and college transitions, which allows me to support clients as they make important life decisions.

My Approach

My style is relaxed, welcoming, and collaborative. I work hard to create a space where clients feel comfortable being themselves—without judgment or pressure. Therapy is practical and supportive, with thoughtful attention to patterns, emotions, and goals.

I draw from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and play-based strategies, adapting the work to meet each client where they are. Clients often share that they appreciate my kindness, reliability, and solution-focused approach—and that my light-hearted style helps therapy feel more approachable.

Over time, clients often feel more grounded, hopeful, and confident, with greater self-awareness, emotional balance, and self-compassion.

You don’t have to do this alone. Call (860) 255-4017 today for a free 15-minute consultation, and together we’ll find the strategies and support your family needs to thrive.

I support…

Teens

I help teens manage anxiety, school stress, social pressure, and emotional overwhelm while building coping skills, confidence, and resilience during this critical stage of development.

Young Adults

I support young adults navigating life transitions, college and career decisions, identity exploration, and the stress of “figuring things out.” Therapy focuses on clarity, emotional balance, and moving forward with confidence.

Parents & Caregivers

I help parents who want support navigating their child’s emotional, academic, or transitional challenges—offering perspective, guidance, and tools to strengthen communication and connection at home.

Availability & Locations

I offer sessions in our Avon and Farmington offices, as well as telehealth counseling for clients across Connecticut. I have after-school, evening, and weekend availability, making therapy more accessible for busy families.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Credentials:

  • Connecticut Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), CT License #9322

  • B.A. in Criminal Justice, Central Connecticut State University

  • M.S. in School Counseling, Central Connecticut State University

  • Over 20 years of experience as a middle and high school counselor

  • Extensive background supporting students through academic, social, and emotional transitions

  • Strong expertise in college and career exploration, postsecondary planning, and transitions

  • Experience working closely with parents, educators, and school teams

  • Trained in CBT, mindfulness-based approaches, and play-based strategies