Inspired by his own experience with long-term recovery and the unwavering support of his mentors, Christopher Maschino, Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor makes it his mission to support and advocate for individuals struggling with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. 

Chris believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship, the foundation of connection, which serves as a powerful gateway towards healing and lasting freedom. 

With empathy and without judgement, Chris understands the behavioral and mental health aspects present in addiction, and fully recognizes the person struggling with addiction is a human being deserving of care. 

He simultaneously encourages clients to take ownership and responsibility in their own healing, where they can find solutions and move forward towards their goals.

We sat down with Chris to learn more about his approach to counseling and what to expect from working with him online or in-person from our Wilbraham office.

What led you into the field of mental health and addiction counseling?

A few of my mentors within my personal recovery journey saw something in me that I didn’t see myself. They suggested that I take a course in addiction counseling, and I took a course on co-occurring mental health conditions as well. 

The courses, in combination with my personal experiences, sparked my interest in supporting people in recovery from substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.  

I went on to pursue my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a concentration in trauma services and later my master’s degree in addiction counseling.

I’ve worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, helping clients overcome various substance use and mental health challenges.

How would you describe your therapeutic style and approach?

My approach to counseling is built on empathy and ownership. 

When people walk into a treatment center or therapy session, they’re most likely struggling. I empathize with their struggle and stay with them through the discomfort they’re experiencing, without judgment. This is how we can foster a therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. 

Ownership means that individuals must acknowledge their power and responsibility in their own healing, so that true change and transformation can occur. A huge part of my work is helping people identify the barriers that stand in their way of where they are and where they want to be.

I’ll utilize modalities rooted in the belief that individuals have the capacity for self-healing and personal growth, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),  Psychodynamic, and Motivational Interviewing. 

Above all, we’ll work on moving forward, no matter what.

What mental health conditions do you offer therapy for?

I offer counseling for adults and older adults struggling with the following mental health conditions:

• Substance Use Disorders/Addictive Disorders
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD/ADD)
• Trauma
• LGBTQIA+
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Academic/Occupational/Work Issues/Career
• Bipolar Disorder
• Anger Management

What’s your favorite part of being a therapist?

I’d say, witnessing the sense of peace that starts to appear in a person’s life as they’re getting better. It’s not necessarily something that the client says, but rather how they carry themselves- more present, regulated, and content. It’s a really beautiful thing to witness the changes happening in clients’ lives.

What do you enjoy about living in Massachusetts?

Having grown up in Massachusetts, I’ve come to really appreciate the coexistence of people from different cultures and backgrounds. It’s shaped the way I see and show up in the world, helping me to be more open, curious, and tolerant of others. 

Everyone’s experiences and perspectives are different, yet we are in this together.

Start working with Chris Maschino, LADC I today:

Are you or a loved one seeking a compassionate, understanding, and experienced counselor for substance use or co-occurring mental health challenges?

Chris Maschino, LADC I, offers a supportive and empathetic approach to help guide you on a safe path toward healing and personal growth. 

To start working with Chris online or in-person from our Wilbraham office, contact us today at (413) 343-4357.

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