GET TO KNOW AMANDA

Amanda Carnesecchi, MSW

Associate Therapist

Amanda Carnesecchi, MSW Candidate, is a Graduate School Practicum Clinician and Community Outreach Coordinator at Gateway to Solutions, pursuing her master’s in clinical social work with a concentration in mental health service delivery from New York University. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Ithaca College with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology with a Sport and Exercise Psychology minor.

At Ithaca College, Amanda conducted research with the Emerging Adulthood Lab, examining the association between social media use and interpersonal relationships. She presented this work at the 26th annual James J. Whalen Academic Symposium and the Eastern Psychology Association in 2024.

During her first-year practicum, Amanda served as a Case Manager and Intake Specialist at the Staten Island Justice Center, where she supported justice-involved adults through individualized case planning, advocacy, and motivational interviewing. In this role, she worked closely with clients navigating complex challenges such as housing instability, employment barriers, and mental health concerns, while also promoting restorative practices and trauma-informed care.

Amanda currently works as a Clinical Intern at Silver Lake Psychotherapy Associates, working with adolescents, adults, and co-facilitating a group that focuses on social skills and coping mechanisms for adolescents with autism. Amanda provides compassionate, client-centered support by helping adolescents and adults navigate mental health challenges, develop coping strategies, and work toward meaningful personal growth.

Since June 2023, Amanda has been working at the FDNY Counseling Services Unit in Manhattan. Her responsibilities include assisting the program director in coordinating the peer support program, providing suicide prevention services, assisting with group therapy sessions with those who struggle with addiction, and processing client intake. She also generates and maintains all mental health files for FDNY members, ensuring their confidentiality and accuracy.

Amanda is a key contributor at Gateway to Solutions, authoring our monthly blogs under the guidance of John Carnesecchi, LCSW, CEAP, founder and clinical director of GTS. She also leverages her outreach and social media skills to engage with the community and highlight the talents of GTS clinicians.

Amanda is excited to utilize her assertiveness and passion for learning in her clinical practice. Throughout her continued progression in her MSW program, she is committed to learning more about therapeutic methods and providing genuine support to families, couples, and individuals.