Christine Grafenstein, MSW
Intake Specialist
Helping You Find the Right Therapist
Reaching out for therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you are not sure where to begin or what kind of support you need.
As Lightpath Counseling Group’s Intake Specialist, I am often the first person you will speak with. My role is to listen closely, understand what you are looking for, and help connect you with a therapist who feels like the right fit for your needs and goals.
I work with people reaching out for support with anxiety, depression, PTSD, postpartum concerns, OCD, school-related anxiety, and a wide range of emotional and life stressors. You may also be unsure whether approaches such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, or another type of therapy might be appropriate. You do not need to have that figured out before you call.
What It’s Like to Talk With Me
I aim to make the intake process feel warm, comfortable, and straightforward.
My style is compassionate, empathetic, and approachable. I take the time to understand what has been going on, what you hope to get from therapy, and what might help you feel comfortable with a therapist.
I am here to help you get started and make the process feel easier. My goal is for you to leave that first conversation feeling heard, supported, and more confident about your next step.
My Background
I began my social work career in 2006 and have nearly 20 years of experience working with a wide range of populations and settings.
My background includes work with adolescents and adults with mental health needs, as well as individuals in subacute rehabilitation, long-term care, and community rehabilitation settings.
That experience helps me approach each intake thoughtfully and understand that finding the right therapist is about more than matching a diagnosis or service. It is about understanding the person, their concerns, and what they need from the relationship.
Getting To Know Me
From an early age, I felt drawn to helping others and knew I wanted work where I could make a difference. Life experiences have continued to strengthen the empathy, patience, and care I bring to the people I support.
Outside of work, I value time with my family and my faith. I enjoy daily walks in the sunshine, music, singing, dancing, and bringing humor into everyday life.
Getting Started With Lightpath Counseling Group
You do not need to know which therapist or type of therapy is right for you before reaching out.
I am here to listen, answer questions, and help match you with a therapist who fits your needs and goals so you can feel supported from the beginning.
Qualifications
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Master of Social Work, MSW
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Nearly 20 years of experience in social work
Experience supporting adolescents and adults with mental health needs
Subacute rehabilitation experience
Long-term care experience
Community rehabilitation experienceIntake and client-matching support at Lightpath Counseling Group
When You Feel Nothing Changes
If part of you is tired of going in circles, that matters. If you’re at the point where you almost make a decision and then pull yourself back, that matters too. Lightpath Counseling Group offers in-person therapy in Port Jefferson and virtual sessions across New York. You don’t have to have the right words. You don’t have to have it figured out.