Positive Directions is a non-profit behavioral health organization providing prevention, counseling, medication management, and support groups to adolescents and adults struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. Vanessa Wilson, MA, LMFT Executive Director Vanessa joined Positive Directions in July of 2021 eager to continue her work in the nonprofit sector. In the ten years prior, Vanessa worked for YWCA Greenwich, Domestic Abuse Services, most recently as Manager of Operations overseeing delivery of high-quality programs and services to victim-survivors of domestic violence. Vanessa managed a team of professional counselors through trauma-informed leadership and served as interim director for the agency. She participated in several leadership groups including a multi-disciplinary team for child abuse and sexual assault, the CAN (Coordinated Access Network) Leadership team, and the Greenwich domestic violence working group. Vanessa is known for her collaborative approach, ability to foster positive relationships with community stakeholders, and focus on strategic growth. Vanessa obtained her MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fairfield University in 2012 and shortly thereafter became licensed and opened a private practice in Darien, CT. Using a variety of family systems therapy models, Vanessa treated individuals, couples and families with a myriad of clinical concerns. Vanessa brings her clinical background in mental health and organizational leadership experience to Positive Directions and looks forward to furthering the agency’s mission and vision. When Vanessa is not at work, you will likely find her suiting up for a softball game with the CT Storm semi-pro women’s slow pitch team hailing from Wilton, CT, snowboarding in the Catskills or spending time with her husband and two daughters. Vanessa can be reached by email at: vwilson@positivedirections.org or by phone at 203-227-7644 ext. 823. Vanessa Wilson, MA, LMFT: Team Members

Lori Lang < Back Lori Lang, APRN Lic. Advanced Practice Reg. Nurse Lori is a nurse practitioner providing medication management for clients at Positive Directions. She believes strongly in practicing kindness every day as well as making patients better and not worse with medical interventions. Prior to joining Positive Directions, she had many years of experience treating patients with blood cancers. During this time, she became increasingly comfortable managing not only the physical, but mental health and emotional concerns of this chronically- ill population. This experience of patients facing life and death under her care led to a fascination with the psychiatric component of medicine. In 2022, she made the decision to transition into caring for patients with co-occurring disorders in a residential substance use facility. She very much enjoys working with this patient population. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and gardening.

Positive Directions is a non-profit behavioral health organization providing prevention, counseling, medication management, and support groups to adolescents and adults struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. Depression Depression is a serious mental illness that affects children and adults emotionally, mentally and physically. It is characterized by feelings of extreme sadness, guilt, and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. Depression can also affect the way you think, feel, and act, and can lead to problems in everyday life. Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include: Feeling extreme sadness Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much Isolation or decreased socialization Loss of energy or increased fatigue Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., hand-wringing or pacing) or slowed movements and speech (actions observable by others) Feeling worthless or guilty Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions Thoughts of death or suicide The first step to receiving the right treatment involves seeking a health care provider and mental health professional . Health care providers can provide exams to rule out other existing conditions and advise to seek counseling if diagnosed. Mental health counselors can help treat depression through psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of the two. Positive Directions Approach to Depression: At Positive Directions, we understand that Depression can feel debilitating. Our approach in working with clients to address their depressive symptoms is collaborative and client-driven, and we work to meet the client where they are at to tailor treatment to their individual circumstances. Upon admission, a comprehensive intake evaluation is completed to gather a history of the client and learn more about the symptoms they have been experiencing. This helps us to gather a comprehensive picture of the impact the clients’ symptoms have had on their lives and allows us to tailor our approach to the client’s needs. Starting with this information, we then develop an individualized treatment plan for each client that is tailored to their needs and goals. The treatment plan is the guide-post for the work we do in session, and progress toward treatment goals is evaluated and measured during each counseling session. Additionally, we periodically review this plan with our clients to ensure that we are consistently working toward and updating goals and objectives as appropriate. Based upon the treatment plan, services are provided to address individual needs and teach clients the skills and tools necessary to gain insight and understanding, work to decrease depressive symptoms, and improve their overall quality of life. Our counselors also work closely with family members as appropriate, educating them about depression and mental health, and supporting their involvement in their loved one’s treatment. When providing these services, a variety of clinical techniques are utilized such as cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, solution-focused and dialectical behavioral tools. Our clinicians are trained in a variety of effective treatment modalities, and treatment is tailored to specific individual and family needs. Furthermore, our clinicians connect with outside providers as necessary, and are able to make appropriate referrals to additional providers should the need arise in order to collaborate and provide comprehensive treatment. Our approach is designed to assist people in improving the quality of their lives. Resources: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression Depression: Service

Positive Directions is a non-profit behavioral health organization providing prevention, counseling, medication management, and support groups to adolescents and adults struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. Bob Vietro, MS, LADC, ICGCII Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor Since 1988, Bob has treated and studied substance misuse/disorders and process addictions, including gambling. He has practiced in both residential and outpatient treatment settings. Bob also has extensive experience in planning and facilitating family Interventions and mediation. The focus of his treatment approach is to help his clients modify their presenting behaviors in order to reduce harmful consequences and to attend to the emotional and situational factors that underlie their actions. Inherent in his approach and personal style, he creates an environment for his clients that is free of judgment and stigma. Bob has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from NYU and a Master's Degree in Counseling and Addictions Studies. He is a Connecticut State Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and an International Certified Gambling Counselor (ICCGCII). He has attended training and received certification from the Johnson Institute for Interventions. In 2014, Bob received an award from the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling in recognition of his contribution to the field and work in problem gambling as well as a Certificate of Special Recognition from U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal. Bob Vietro, MS, LADC, ICGCII: TeamMember

Positive Directions is a non-profit behavioral health organization providing prevention, counseling, medication management, and support groups to adolescents and adults struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. Our Sponsors We are honored by the financial support of the following community sponsors, which helps us fulfill our mission: Our prevention work is funded by federal and state grants. We are very grateful to our prevention partners: And we are extremely grateful to the individual donors and Board members who support us through one-time or annual gifts. Not a donor? Please consider clicking on the Donate button on our menu bar! Every gift is welcome and is put to good use--whether it supports our Treatment Fund , enabling people in need to receive therapy, or our community education and prevention work , or TurningPointCT , our young adult peer support project. Thank you!

Positive Directions is a non-profit behavioral health organization providing prevention, counseling, medication management, and support groups to adolescents and adults struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. Anxiety The feeling of anxiety is a normal occurrence in life, perhaps before taking an exam or waiting to hear back test results from the doctor; however, anxiety that is consistently present and continues to worsen over time is known as an anxiety disorder. The symptoms can interfere in daily activities such as during work, school, or in personal relationships. Understanding the types of anxiety disorders is important for knowing how it should be treated. Types of Anxiety Generalized Anxiety Disorder Characterized by consistent worry and ongoing tension that involve job or family responsibilities, health, finances, or minor matters such as appointments. This type of anxiety may cause symptoms such as: Restlessness Feeling on edge Muscle tension Difficulty sleeping Panic Disorder The main symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks that involve physical and psychological distress. This type of anxiety may cause the following symptoms: Palpitations, pounding heart or rapid heart rate Sweating Trembling or shaking Feeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations Chest pain Feeling dizzy, light-headed or faint Feeling of choking Numbness or tingling Chills or hot flashes Nausea or abdominal pains Feeling detached Fear of losing control Fear of dying Due to the severity of such symptoms, it may cause someone to think they are having a heart attack or another life-threatening illness, requiring them to go to the hospital emergency room. Phobia-related Disorders This type of anxiety is focused on specific and excessive fears about objects, situations, or activities which the person experiencing it feels they cannot overcome. Some examples include fear of heights or spiders. Social Anxiety Disorder This type of disorder is characterized by a person who experiences anxiety in social interactions, in which they fear being humiliated, embarrassed, or looked down upon by other people. Someone experiencing social anxiety will generally avoid such interactions. Common examples include the extreme fear of public speaking, not wanting to eat or drink in public, and meeting new people. Separation Anxiety Disorder A person with separation anxiety disorder fears being separated from someone they are significantly attached to. They may feel reluctant to sleep away or be apart from whomever they are attached to for long periods of time. Symptoms generally begin during childhood and can continue on throughout adulthood. Anxiety: What We Do

Bob Vietro < Back Bob Vietro, MS, LADC, ICGCII Lic. Alcohol & Drug Counselor Since 1988, Bob has treated and studied substance misuse/disorders and process addictions, including gambling. He has practiced in both residential and outpatient treatment settings. Bob also has extensive experience in planning and facilitating family Interventions and mediation. The focus of his treatment approach is to help his clients modify their presenting behaviors in order to reduce harmful consequences and to attend to the emotional and situational factors that underlie their actions. Inherent in his approach and personal style, he creates an environment for his clients that is free of judgment and stigma. Bob has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from NYU and a Master's Degree in Counseling and Addictions Studies. He is a Connecticut State Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and an International Certified Gambling Counselor (ICCGCII). He has attended training and received certification from the Johnson Institute for Interventions. In 2014, Bob received an award from the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling in recognition of his contribution to the field and work in problem gambling as well as a Certificate of Special Recognition from U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal.

Melanie DeLapp, MS, LMFT < Back Melanie DeLapp, MS, LMFT Clinical Director Melanie DeLapp is a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in CT and NY, and received her Master's education from Iona College. Melanie has experience working for a broad range of community-based mental health services and is trained in DBT, FBT (The Maudsley method,) and SPACE (supportive parenting for anxious childhood emotions.) Melanie specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, specific phobias, and school refusal/avoidance. Her approach is systemic, solution-focused, and strengths based. Prior to joining the Positive Directions Team, Melanie spent 5 years as a clinical coordinator for a non-profit organization, and has extensive experience in residential and partial hospitalization eating disorder treatment. In her spare time, Melanie enjoys baking, reading romance novels, and snuggling with her dog, Tater Tot. Melanie can be contacted by phone at 203-227-7644 ext 851.

< Back Cindy Dupiton Coalition Coordinator, The Norwalk Partnership Cindy Dupiton is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Policy Studies with a minor in Religion in December 2025. She has professional experience working at the Big Four level in consulting, where she developed a strong foundation in systems thinking, stakeholder engagement, and community focused problem solving. Cindy has joined Positive Directions as a part-time Coalition Coordinator for the Norwalk Partnership (TNP). In this role, she supports a community based coalition focused on preventing substance misuse and promoting mental wellness among youth and young adults in Norwalk. Grounded in a commitment to public service and youth advocacy, Cindy is dedicated to fostering collaborative, inclusive spaces that uplift young people and strengthen community well being. She is passionate about prevention work, education, and empowering communities to create sustainable, healthy futures. Outside of work, Cindy enjoys wellness activities, creative projects, and engaging with community spaces that celebrate culture and connection.

Margaret Watt < Back Margaret Watt, MPH, MA Prevention Director Margaret joined Positive Directions in July 2020 as Director of Prevention after serving as a regional leader in behavioral health, as Executive Director of the Southwest Regional Mental Health Board for eight years and first Director of The Hub. In those roles she worked with a wide variety of stakeholders on initiatives to support the integration of mental health and substance use services; to improve prevention, treatment, and recovery; and to promote peer support. In 2017 she won the Policy Leadership Award from the Keep The Promise Coalition in recognition of her advocacy work. As a Board member of NAMI Connecticut since 2021, she chairs the statewide Public Policy Coalition. Prior to her career in behavioral health, Margaret worked for 12 years in global health and eight years in education. She also has experience as a grants and publication editor. Margaret received her MPH from UNC/Chapel Hill, her MA in Education from Columbia University, and her BA from Harvard. She is fluent in Spanish and French. You can reach Margaret at: mwatt@positivedirections.org or by phone at 203-227-7644 ext. 827

Tava Auslan, M.Ed < Back Tava Auslan, BA, M.Ed. Clinical Intern Tava has joined Positive Directions as a Clinical Intern and has a Master's in Counseling from Fordham University. She is currently enrolled in a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certificate of Advanced Study at The University of Bridgeport. After 20+ years as a clinical career counselor in settings ranging from higher education to nonprofit, Tava transitioned into mental health counseling to support adults and adolescents navigating periods of change and to provide strategies for managing life stressors, anxiety, or depression. She provides trauma-informed care and utilizes an individualized approach drawing from various modalities along with a strong foundation in Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT). Tava brings her values of client empowerment, authenticity, and mutuality to foster client growth and greater self-awareness. Outside of work, Tava loves spending time with her rescue dogs, exploring trails, and watching her favorite dance companies.

Positive Directions is a non-profit behavioral health organization providing prevention, counseling, medication management, and support groups to adolescents and adults struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. Substance Use Prevention Most people don't misuse substances: a large majority of teens and about 1/3 of adults do not use alcohol or other drugs at all. Positive Directions helps the communities we work with to understand who is using which drugs and under what conditions. We can then develop awareness, education, support, and environmental strategies to create positive community norms and help those who are most at risk. Most of our prevention work focuses on preventing substance use by teens, although we also support efforts among young adults and beyond. Below we share some important facts about today's substance use trends, along with resources for parents. For more information, please contact us , or consider joining your Local Prevention Coalition (LPC) or following us and your LPC on social media. Info & Resources Marijuana As of July 2021, marijuana is now legal for adult use in CT, although it will not be for sale until 2022. Unfortunately, many people do not realize that the drug has been engineered to be much stronger than in past decades, that it is addictive, and that it is particularly risky for teens since it affects brain development. Know the facts! We've updated our presentation on "The New Marijuana & Today's Youth" to include a few slides about the recent legalization of adult cannabis use in CT and the implications for prevention. Here's our blog post & press release about celebrating the 4th of July safely right after marijuana possession was legalized for adults over 21. Check out our Top 10 Facts everyone should know about the new marijuana, read a Q&A, get factsheets and watch videos on the marijuana page of The Norwalk Partnership, our community coalition in Norwalk. Watch our April 2021 presentation on "The New Marijuana and Today's Youth" to the Westport Prevention Coalition (22 minutes). Check out the marijuana page at DrugFreeCT.org . Visit the State of CT's cannabis website following the legalization of retail marijuana. Learn more at CDC's marijuana website . Alcohol Alcohol remains the most used drug among adults and youth, and binge drinking is common, especially on college campuses. Watch the Feb. 2021 "Power of Parents" presentation on underage drinking by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to our local prevention coalitions (1 hr). Get resources from the MADD parenting handbooks. Get high school parent handbook here ; middle school parent handbook here . Check out the two-part Q&A on Teen Drinking and Responsible Drinking, and get infographics and handouts, on the alcohol page of The Norwalk Partnership , our prevention coalition in Norwalk. The NIH's Rethinking Drinking website has great information and resources for those interested in cutting back or quitting drinking. Here's CDC's 2020 Alcohol-Impaired Driving in CT factsheet . Learn more at CDC's alcohol website . Vaping In 2019, CT passed the Tobacco 21 law, making all forms of vaping, cigarettes and nicotine delivery systems illegal for anyone under 21. While vaping among teens has decreased, some continue to vape due to being addicted and some have turned to cigarettes instead. Among adults who began using vapes to quit smoking, many have simply transferred their addiction to vaping although some have been successful. Check out this June 2021 webinar on vaping by PAVE and The Hub. Watch our Vaping 101 slideshow. Check out this parents' guide to vaping , developed by a group of prevention coalitions in CT. Get resources & webinars from Parents Against Vaping E-cigarettes (PAVE) . Learn the latest trends, research, and policies from the Truth Initiative . Learn more at CDC's vaping website . Prescription Drugs Most people are now aware that prescription pain management drugs like Percoset are opioids, which are highly addictive. The opioid epidemic in this country includes both prescription opioids and illicit opioids like heroin. Increasingly, the extremely dangerous drug fentanyl is present in heroin as well as in black-market counterfeit drugs. However, other prescription drugs such as benzos (e.g. Xanax) and ADHD drugs (e.g., Ritalin) are also commonly misused: overused, shared or borrowed, or purchased illegally. Benzos are addictive and very hard to quit. Visit DrugFreeCT's pages on opioids and other drugs. Preventing Rx drug abuse starts with keeping any drugs at home locked up so no one can access them illicitly. If you have leftover medications, safely dispose of them using a Deterra bag (which we can provide) or bring them to the medication dropbox at your local police department. Check out the state's Change the Script resources, aimed at decreasing the number and strength of opioid prescriptions. Visit the LiveLOUD website for resources for those with an opioid addiction, or LiveLOUD Families for those affected by a loved one with an opioid use disorder. Positive Directions can provide community members and groups with education on opioids and how to administer Naloxone (Narcan) to reverse an opioid overdose. We can provide Deterra bags for safe disposal of unused medications as well as Narcan kits, through our regional partner organization, The Hub. Contact Margaret . Families & Educators Research shows that parents have the greatest influence on their teens' decisions about drug use (even if it doesn't feel that way!) So: Talk early and often with your kids. Be clear that you do not support any use of alcohol and other drugs and what the consequences would be. Make sure your liquor and medications are locked up. Below are a few recommended websites for parents & teachers. Operation Prevention from the DEA has English & Spanish curriculum for grades 3-12 plus parent resources. Operation Parent has webinars and other resources for families. DrugFree.org offers guides on today's drugs, how to talk to your kids about different drugs, what to do if you find out your child has been using substances, and more. English & Spanish. DrugFreeCT.org provides drug-by-drug information and resources specific to CT. Check out our Q&A for parents from the parenting page on The Norwalk Partnership website , our prevention coalition in Norwalk. Government websites with activities, games & resources for educators, parents & kids: Just Think Twice , for teens Get Smart About Drugs , from the DEA Teen Drug Abuse site, with deep sections for teachers , parents , teens National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week Red Ribbon Week Contact Margaret to schedule a Hidden in Plain Sight training, where adults can walk through a mock teenager's bedroom to look for signs of drug use. Watch Christine Rutigliano's heartbreaking testimony about her son's cannabis addiction. As a result of cannabis use, her son suffers from cannabanoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and has "thirteen emergency room visits under his belt."