I specialize in mental health care across the lifespan, working with children struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum challenges, and social anxiety. I also provide therapy for adults of all genders, with a focus on Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, executive functioning, organization, impulse control, and mood disorders. I am a Certified ADHD Counselor and I have specialized training in women’s mental health, supporting those navigating hormonal transitions such as PMDD, perimenopause, postmenopause, and postpartum, as well as anxiety and depression related (or unrelated) to these changes. Additionally, I integrate nutrition and healthy sleep routines to support overall mental and emotional well-being.

Denise Santangelo

Founder & Lead Clinician

Hi, I’m Denise Santangelo, founder of SpireTHERAPY, and Clinical Director, lead therapist, family therapist, Certified ADHD Specialist, and passionate advocate for helping kids and adults become the best version of themselves.

My approach to therapy is simple yet powerful: I believe lasting change comes from understanding not just how to cope, but why challenges show up in our lives. Whether I’m working with you individually, as a couple, or with your whole family, I’m committed to exploring the deeper patterns beneath the surface, so we can break the cycle of repeated struggles and build resilience for the future.

At SpireTHERAPY, I wear many hats. I’m the family therapist and parent expert working closely with all the families and kids in our care. Supporting individuals and families living with ADHD is especially close to my heart—it’s one of the greatest passions of my work, and as a Certified ADHD Specialist, I’m dedicated to helping clients not just manage symptoms but truly thrive.

I support children, teens, and adults facing challenges like anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, mood disorders, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma-related concerns, and neurodevelopmental conditions like ASD and ADHD. I also guide couples navigating communication breakdowns, intimacy struggles, or the aftermath of infidelity, as well as families dealing with stressors that make home life feel tense or unbalanced.

Before becoming a therapist, I practiced law as a New York attorney, working closely with families and children during divorce and custody processes. I understand how overwhelming and painful these life transitions can be. Even when divorce is inevitable, I’m here to help families find stability, support, and hope for what comes next.

Therapy with me is about feeling heard, equipped, and empowered. I’d be honored to be the helping hand for you and your family as you navigate life’s challenges and work toward your best self.

Denise's Credentials

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut (LPC). I have earned my Doctorate in Law (JD), I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Psychology (PhD), I have earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS), and a Bachelor’s in Sociology (BS). I am specifically trained in Play Therapy, Complex Trauma in Children, Adolescents and Teens, Anxiety Treatment in Children & Teens, ADHD Treatment in Children and Adults, Grief Counseling, Family Counseling, Flash Technique, and other concentrations.

Denise’s Academic & Professional Honor Societies

I am the Chair of Ridgefield’s Prevention Council - a Council designed to create more knowledge and awareness around prevention of destructive decisions for our community’s youth. 

I am an alumni member of Chi Sigma Iota, which is an international and professional academic honor society for counseling students. Also, I am a member of both the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) Leadership Honor Society, and Psi Chi, which is an International Honor Society for Psychology professionals.

I am the Co-Chair of the CT Counseling Association’s Western Chapter and I have guest lectured numerous times at Western CT State University’s Graduate program in Clinical Mental Health, at annual events and workshops hosted by the CT Counseling Association, and for public access television.