Hi, I'm Will!
I'm Will Zarillo, Ed.D., LCSW, a licensed therapist and founder of Storia Therapy, where I offer virtual psychotherapy to individuals throughout New Jersey.
I've always been interested in what shapes us. The experiences we carry, the expectations we place on ourselves, the relationships we build, and the stories we come to believe about who we are.
Much of my career has been spent working with college students and young adults across different backgrounds and disciplines. I've also worked directly with collegiate athletic teams, creatives/performers, and individuals in demanding professions, including healthcare, law, business, and emergency services. These experiences have given me an appreciation for the different ways people navigate anxiety, stress, identity, relationships, and the pressure to succeed.
My approach to therapy is rooted in curiosity and collaboration. Drawing from narrative therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other evidence-based approaches, I work with clients to explore not only what's challenging them, but also what matters to them. I believe there's always more to someone's story than their accomplishments, struggles, or diagnosis.
My doctoral research, which explored student activism and institutional betrayal, further shaped my interest in how our personal experiences intersect with the larger environments and expectations around us.
Outside of therapy, I'm a husband to my wife, Ambika, and a new dad. I enjoy running/fitness, soccer, baseball, playing piano, theater, cooking, and traveling. These parts of my life continue to remind me that our stories are never finished, and there's always something new to discover.
Whether you're navigating a difficult transition, feeling overwhelmed by expectations, working through past experiences, or simply looking to better understand yourself, I'd welcome the opportunity to connect.
Therapy that makes room for your whole story, including the stories we tell ourselves and those still waiting to be discovered.
A few values that guide my approach
Curiosity Over Assumptions
I believe meaningful therapy begins with thoughtful questions rather than easy answers. I approach each person with curiosity, taking time to understand your experiences, perspectives, and what matters most to you.
More than just symptom relief
Therapy can help manage anxiety, stress, and other challenges, but it can also offer something more. Together, we can explore patterns, strengthen self-understanding, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.
People within systems
Our mental health doesn't exist in isolation. Relationships, family dynamics, workplace pressures, cultural expectations, and larger social systems all influence our experiences. I take these contexts into account rather than focusing solely on individual symptoms.
A collaborative process
I believe effective therapy is built through connection, trust, and shared decision-making. My approach is personalized, drawing from evidence-based therapeutic methods while keeping your goals, values, and preferences at the center of our work.