“The self is an integrated system of parts, each shaped by experience and designed for protection. Healing occurs when these parts are met with curiosity and compassion—allowing energy to move from fragmentation toward coherence, and the person toward wholeness.”
My name is Dr. Walkens Petit-Frère, and I’m glad you’re here. I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals, teens, and couples navigate life’s emotional complexities with clarity and compassion. Over the years, I’ve trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS Level I & II), EMDR, AEDP, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). My approach integrates these evidence-based models to support deep reflection, emotional healing, and lasting change. Whether you’re seeking relief from anxiety, processing trauma, or striving for balance in your relationships, I offer a collaborative and grounded space to help you reconnect with your authentic self.
Professional Development
Academic training
- Doctor of Social Work (DSW) – Simmons University, Boston, MA
Focus: Clinical practice, relational theory, and trauma-informed systems of care - Master of Social Work (MSW) – Silberman School of Social Work, Hunter College, New York, NY
Concentration: Clinical social work and urban practice - Bachelor of Arts in Government and Legal Studies – Bowdoin College, Brunswick, ME
Postgraduate Clinical Training:
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) – Level I & II
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Parts I & II
- Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) – Level I
- Mindfulness-Based Interventions
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Trauma-Focused CBT
Clinical experience
Dr. Walkens Petit-Frère, DSW, LCSW, has extensive experience providing psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and couples across community, forensic, and private practice settings. His work integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS Level I & II), EMDR, and AEDP to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational challenges.
He has served as a clinician with the New York Mental Health Group (NYMHG) and New York Forensic, working with justice-involved individuals and complex trauma presentations. In private practice, he offers culturally attuned and trauma-informed care, supporting clients in reconnecting with self-energy, improving emotional regulation, and deepening relational awareness.
Therapy Approaches
IFS
IFS is a transformative, evidence-based model that helps clients understand and heal the different “parts” within the self. Through curiosity and compassion, I support clients in accessing Self-energy—the calm, confident core that allows for internal balance, integration, and emotional healing.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR is a structured, trauma-focused approach that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories, reducing emotional intensity and bodily reactivity. I use EMDR to address trauma, anxiety, and performance-related issues, integrating mindfulness and somatic awareness to enhance resilience and self-trust.
(AEDP) Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy
AEDP focuses on creating safety and fostering secure attachment within the therapeutic relationship. I use this model to help clients process emotional pain, deepen relational capacity, and experience healing through connection and core affective experiences.
(CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is a structured, evidence-based approach that helps clients identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts and behaviors contributing to emotional distress. I use CBT to treat anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues, integrating it with mindfulness and relational awareness. This approach empowers clients to develop practical coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and build healthier patterns of thinking and responding.
Let's Talk
The first step in therapy is talking. Let's find a time where we can meet and talk about what's on your mind.
