Michael C. Klein, PhD
I am a clinical psychologist with 13 years of experience treating adults for a variety of concerns in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I am a Co-Owner & Executive Director at Downtown Psychological Services, PC, a psychotherapy practice specializing in adult treatment with a focus on mental health and academic issues on college campuses. I completed my doctorate in clinical psychology at Long Island University - Brooklyn campus in 2006 and began working as a staff psychologist at NYU’s Counseling and Behavioral Health Center.
During this time, I was co-director of a national project aimed at improving depression care on college campuses (www.ncdp.nyu.edu). I soon realized how much I enjoyed working with young adults and opened a private practice where I could do more in-depth psychotherapy work. While building the practice, I continued to advance my knowledge and skills through post-doctoral training at the Institute for the Psychoanalytic Study of Subjectivity (IPSS). I recently graduated and became a certified psychoanalyst in 2019. I continue to focus on working with young adults, many of whom are undergraduate and graduate students. I have treated hundreds of students and other adults utilizing short-term and long-term psychotherapy approaches. I have a particular interest in helping highly creative people and competitive individuals who actively strive to master a field of interest or domain (e.g. cooking, writing, artists, athletes) and attain their goals of peak performance.
Melissa Tihinen, LCSW, SEP
I’m a Co-Owner & Executive Director of Downtown Psychological Services. Therapeutically, I strive to assist individuals and couples in understanding how early attachment dynamics in their families impact their current-day coping strategies, relationships, and way of relating to the world. I have extensive experience working with adults on various concerns including life transitions, depression, anxiety, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, and substance use. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
As a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist for Couples through ICEEFT, I help couples overcome conflict and distress arising from negative cycles of interaction. I work to facilitate truthful conversations that involve both partners recognizing their contributions to the dynamic and learning to express their wants and needs in more productive ways.
In working with individuals who have experienced trauma, I will often suggest that we utilize Somatic Experiencing, which focuses on how the body, especially the nervous system, metabolizes trauma. In SE, we work to pay attention to how the body holds trauma in an attempt to help the nervous system re-regulate. I am an SEP (Somatic Experiencing Practitioner) through Somatic Experiencing International. I am also trained in Inner Relationship Focusing and use this parts work based model with SE.
I hold a Master of Social Work from New York University and a Master of Arts in Public Policy and Gender Studies from The George Washington University. After receiving my MSW, I continued my post-graduate work in psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Study Center. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked in student affairs at several universities and enjoy working with undergraduate and graduate students. Additionally, I worked as an advocate for survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence for over 15 years in a variety of capacities.
Eve Buck, LMHC
Everyone’s therapy journey is different. Whether it is working through trauma or beginning a path towards better self-understanding, it is the job of a mental health professional to provide an open, non-judgmental, and productive space to help accomplish your goals. Just like each person is unique, each treatment plan is different and adapted to who you are and what you need. Having lived many places, I understand that there is a wide breadth of human experience and the complexities of life in New York City, and I bring this knowledge with me to best meet your needs as a unique individual or couple looking to improve your relationship.
I pride myself on my multicultural approach to therapy while bringing in teachings and principles of multiple disciplines, drawing mainly from psychodynamic therapy, feminist therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy for Couples, CBT and other evidence-based practices. It is this multidisciplinary approach that I believe best serves individual and couples clients and can help adjust treatments to what you need, when you need it. Life can be hard and confusing, but as your mental health professional I will be there to empathize with and support you through it.
I have worked as a Staff Therapist at DPS since March 2022 after transitioning from a practice in Nyack, NY. I hold a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College Columbia University. Some of my previous training has taken me from Fordham University working with undergraduate and graduate students from all walks of life to community focused clinics that work with under and uninsured multicultural clients. The experiences and lessons learned along my own journey will hopefully only help to enrich your own as a part of DPS. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
Robyn Chao Phan, LCAT-LP
As a drama therapist, I am curious about the ways in which we observe and take on a variety of roles throughout our lives. Therapy can be a way to explore these roles and their impacts, with you as the storyteller.
My work focuses on the unique lived experiences brought on by intersecting identities. I use a trauma-informed and harm-reduction framework to consider how your experience is shaped by both individual and systemic forces. As a creative arts therapist, I can guide you in exploring modes of expression and communication that go beyond the limits of talk. I have supported adolescents and adults around the LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse experiences, and have also presented on clinical work with Third-Culture Kids (TCKs).
I have a Master's degree in Drama Therapy from New York University, and Bachelor's degrees in Theatre and Neuroscience from Muhlenberg College. Prior to joining DPS, I worked in nonprofit and private practice settings with a focus on the LGBTQ+ community, and also have experience working as an executive function coach. I am dedicated to crafting a collaborative therapeutic alliance, where the work is a mutual process that contributes to growth (whatever that looks like for you!). I'm curious, passionate about radical change and justice, and can laugh at almost everything, including myself. My pronouns are she/they.
Esther Choo, MHC-LP
I strive to create a warm and non-judgmental environment where clients can be and feel heard, discover their own voice, and learn how to experience a greater sense of freedom in their lives. Seeking therapy is brave, and it is an honor and a privilege to accompany clients on the journey.
My approach to therapy is largely psychodynamic, focusing on understanding how the past shapes the present to help clients gain insight and achieve meaningful change. I balance an exploration of the past with exploring new perspectives and behaviors. This empowers clients to create a more fulfilling and adaptive approach to their present and future. My work centers the client as the expert of their own story – identifying and building upon one’s strengths while nurturing self-reliance and self-compassion. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a financial operations manager and high-level competitive gymnastics coach. I have extensive experience with sports and performance psychology techniques such as mindfulness, goal setting, self-talk, and anxiety management.
I hold a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Brooklyn College and a Bachelor's from Johns Hopkins University. My prior clinical experience includes working with college and graduate students facing mood and trauma disorders, life transitions, and identity development.
Gerri Connaught, Ph.D., LMSW
Deep in our hearts, we all share the need to be genuinely seen, heard, and understood. We all want to know that who we are, what we’ve experienced, and what we do matters. I believe that therapy is a place where we can show up fully as ourselves and feel seen, heard, and understood without judgment as we work towards being the best versions of ourselves.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a welcoming and safe space where you can feel comfortable to be and express yourself, to have your voice heard, to process and work through any challenges you are facing, and to know that you are not alone as we work collaboratively together. I strive to create an environment where one can engage in self-reflection, self-exploration, growth, and healing. My clinical experience includes working with adults around issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, stress management, interpersonal relationships, identity concerns/exploration, racial trauma and discrimination, grief, and impostor syndrome. My approach can best be described as empathic, patient, humanistic, and strengths-based. I also practice with a social justice orientation in that I recognize the ways in which the social structures we are embedded in can contribute to experiences of oppression, trauma, and challenges with mental health, particularly among marginalized identities. I welcome working with individuals and couples of all backgrounds and identities and am greatly committed to helping you thrive in all areas of your life.
Before obtaining my Ph.D. in Social Work at New York University, I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Hunter College and a B.A. in Psychology at Brooklyn College.
Gray D’Andrea, LMHC
Therapy should be a space to help you better understand yourself and how you got to where you are now. My job is to help you do just that. I work from a non-judgmental, empathetic, and attuned place, to help you feel supported throughout your process. I believe therapy should be collaborative, and while not always comfortable, you will always feel safe and heard. I will work to be flexible to your needs and personality and will always meet you where you are. We may laugh, you may cry, and you may laugh while you cry. Wherever you’d like to go, I’d like to go there with you.
I hold a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Fordham University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology and child and family studies from the University of Tennessee. Prior to joining Downtown Psychological Services, I worked as a Primary Therapist treating eating disorders in multiple higher levels of care. In addition to eating disorders, I have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, somatic disorders, and many others. I am a HAES informed (health at every size) and trauma informed clinician. I primarily work from a psychodynamic perspective, but also utilize CBT, DBT, CPT, and many other acronyms as needed. I have experience treating individuals as well as families.
As a nonbinary and queer clinician, I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I welcome patients of all backgrounds and identities and take great care in recognizing my own privilege in the therapeutic relationship, as well as in the world.
Starting therapy can feel daunting. Whatever goals you have for this process, my work is to help you reach them. With warmth, understanding, and connection, I’d like to help you make sense of yourself, your relationships, and your place in this world.
My pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am licensed by NY State as Grace D’Andrea as an MHC-LP.
Alex Faber, MHC-LP
I strive to create a warm and non-judgmental environment where clients can be and feel heard, discover their own voice, and learn how to experience a greater sense of freedom in their lives. Seeking therapy is brave, and it is an honor and a privilege to accompany clients on the journey.
My approach to therapy is largely psychodynamic, focusing on understanding how the past shapes the present to help clients gain insight and achieve meaningful change. I balance an exploration of the past with exploring new perspectives and behaviors. This empowers clients to create a more fulfilling and adaptive approach to their present and future. My work centers the client as the expert of their own story – identifying and building upon one’s strengths while nurturing self-reliance and self-compassion. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a financial operations manager and high-level competitive gymnastics coach. I have extensive experience with sports and performance psychology techniques such as mindfulness, goal setting, self-talk, and anxiety management.
I hold a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Brooklyn College and a Bachelor's from Johns Hopkins University. My prior clinical experience includes working with college and graduate students facing mood and trauma disorders, life transitions, and identity development.
Emma Frank, LMSW
I am honored to join you in this therapeutic journey, and as we ask some of life's hardest questions together, I will continue to remind you that you are not alone in your curiosity or confusion. My therapeutic style is rooted in affirming and compassionate care, which centers the idea that YOU define your identities, and YOU are the expert on your own life. Together, we can build a strong and trusting alliance, where the therapeutic relationship itself is an avenue towards growth and healing. To this end, I value a relational style of psychotherapy where we will dive into the relationships in your life, both past and present. Additionally, we will hold space to explore your relationship with yourself.
I am training in Somatic Experiencing and will integrate this modality as an opportunity to explore helping you to embodying emotional experiences, creating a greater capacity to tune into unprocessed trauma and it’s impact on your nervous system. This can lead to a reduction in anxiety, negative thought patterns, and a greater sense of ease.
My style is informed by queer theory and deconstructing the presence of shame in living outside of society's binaries, norms, and socially constructed roles. I value social constructionist theory as well, and integrate this by exploring social location and the connections between societal oppression and mental health in therapy. I have experience working with people who are exploring their gender identity or are in the process of medical and/or social transitioning. I believe that psychodynamic theory makes space for all of our past ages and selves to enter the room. A question I will hold with tenderness throughout our journey together is, “How does it feel to be you?” I will carefully and thoughtfully cater my therapeutic approach to who you are, and what you need with evidence based practices in both short and long term approaches.
My couples therapy work is focused through an attachment lens and I have trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, which helps couples identify negative cycles in their relationships and help to create new, positive cycles.
I am an honor's graduate of the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College where I completed a field of specialization in Gender and Sexuality. Before receiving my MSW, I worked in reproductive healthcare research, as well as diverse family structure research. I am a published author in the latter field and enjoy working with folks who are part of queer families, adoptive families, and families formed through donor insemination. My passion for queer family advocacy continues to be present in my career goals and directions for the future. I am part of the LGBTQ+ community and use she/her/hers and they/them/theirs pronouns.
Micaela Kong González, MHC-LP
I see the therapeutic relationship as a unique, authentic, and humanistic bond that has the capacity for healing. I believe that human connection is an intrinsic need, but sometimes our past experiences can make opening up to others feel scary and unsafe. Together, we will co-create an environment where you can express yourself freely and openly. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and curious about you and your experiences.
I work from an Attachment framework and align myself with Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). I believe that as children, we learn about ourselves and the world through our relationship with our primary caregivers. However, if our caregivers are unreliable, unresponsive, and disengaged, we develop ways of coping with the dangers and risks of life that are less adaptive. As adults, we may become hyper-vigilant, preoccupied, detached, and/or highly independent and struggle with our self-esteem. In our work, we will explore these attachment wounds and provide a landing space for younger or “shamed” parts of yourself to resurface. Through the therapeutic relationship and the use of experiential interventions, you will gain greater emotional insight and acquire new skills to disrupt patterns that are no longer serving you or your goals.
As a Miami-born, Uruguayan-Chinese clinician, I use Liberation Psychology as a guiding framework in my clinical work with all clients, as I fundamentally believe in integrating an anti-oppressive, culturally inclusive, and Mujerista lens in all of my work. I am passionate about working with clients who share a similar cultural identity and are looking to explore the themes of identity, belonging, and racial justice.
My previous clinical experience includes providing therapeutic services to the Latinx/e immigrant population in Philadelphia at the individual level and in school-based groups. Additionally, I worked closely with Latinx/e students at the University of Pennsylvania to provide them with academic and mental health support through my position with La Casa Latina. I have competency in treating interpersonal conflicts, family of origin trauma, migration and racial trauma, anxiety, and depression.. I hold a Masters of Science in Education in Counseling and Mental Health Services and a Masters of Philosophy in Education for Professional Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education. Additionally, I completed my Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto. I go by Mica and use she/her/ella pronouns. I work bilingually (English/Spanish).
Amber Griffiths, LMSW
Life can be hard; you don't have to navigate it alone. I place a strong emphasis on building an authentic therapeutic relationship in order to create a safe and protected space. Within this space, clients are encouraged to examine their past experiences, feelings, and patterns of behavior in order to bring a deeper awareness to their lives and choices. I work to assist clients on their path to finding comfort and clarity in their relationships with others and with themselves. I believe that exploring our early experiences, attachments, motivations and inner conflicts in a safe context can foster greater self-awareness and personal growth. I work to support clients while they learn new strategies in approaching challenges and reinforce the inner well of resources that each client brings with them.
I am psychodynamically oriented and utilize an empathetic, strengths-based and non-judgmental approach. I have also been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I specialize in providing therapy to individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, effects of trauma, self-esteem and confidence challenges, life transitions and family/relationship conflicts.
I hold a master’s degree in Social Work from Columbia University and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University, Northridge. I also bring to my therapeutic work, over 15 years of supporting both undergraduate and graduate students in a university setting.
Brooke Greene, PhD
I find therapy to be a valuable space for reflection, connection, and growth and embrace the opportunity to construct such a space with my clients. I bring a warm, empathetic presence and a desire to understand my clients deeply as we work together towards the change they desire in their lives.
I hold a PhD in clinical psychology from the City University of New York Graduate Center and have been happy to provide psychotherapy at Downtown Psychological Services since 2019. My prior psychotherapy experience includes work in hospitals and community mental health centers in NYC, as well as in college counseling centers including (among others) those at New York University, Fordham University, and Pace University.
In my work with individuals, couples, and groups, I draw upon psychodynamic and systemic approaches to increase clients’ resilience and sense of fulfillment in multiple areas of their lives. I use my training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples to help couples identify and change entrenched conflict dynamics so that they can strengthen their attachment bond and make space for separateness, difference, and play. I am also passionate about the power of group therapy to address relational patterns that leave people feeling excluded, disconnected, and unseen so that they can experience a greater sense of connection and belonging.
I enjoy working with clients presenting with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, sexual assault/abuse, substance use concerns, traumatic/difficult past experiences, and concerns related to navigating stigmatized identities. Creating an environment that is affirming to LGBTQ+ clients is particularly important to me.
In addition to my training in psychology, I hold a PhD in political science from Columbia University. My background in political science reflects my interest in the impact of political and social structures on the lives of my clients. I strive to make space for each client’s full self and am attuned to how social location – both yours and mine - may impact our therapeutic process. I am also well-acquainted with the challenges of academic life and eager to assist students navigating related concerns.
My pronouns are She/Hers/Her.
Stephanie King, LMSW
I believe in the power of therapy to help individuals better understand themselves and their relationships. I specialize in providing therapy to individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, trauma, and racial/gender discrimination. I aim to create a secure and compassionate environment for individuals and couples from marginalized communities. Utilizing a therapeutic lens that involves integrating an individual's identity, culture, and lived experience while we address your concerns.
As an Emotionally Focused Therapy trained couples therapist, I understand that many couples struggle with communication, intimacy, and trust. I help couples identify negative patterns and underlying emotions that contribute to their relationship struggles. By understanding these patterns and emotions, couples can learn to communicate more effectively and build stronger emotional bonds. I am direct, funny (self-ascribed), and I challenge clients to actively engage in the therapeutic process. Together we will explore your learned coping mechanisms and identify strategies to help manage stress, encourage growth, and increase the exploration of life
I hold a masters degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania, a masters degree in Education Policy from Columbia University, and a bachelor’s degree in Human Development from Cornell University. I also bring to my therapeutic work, nearly 15 years of supporting both undergraduate and graduate students in university settings. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
Juliette Lackow, LMSW
I believe that we are made up of all of our experiences. How we experience and feel in the present is affected so much by our relationships and past events that we’ve endured. I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist. My therapeutic style embraces the idea of the importance of being seen, validated, heard, and understood from the root. I have a passion for and experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, life transitions, self-exploration, eating disorders, and relationship and interpersonal issues. I have specialized training in psychoanalysis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy for Couples, trauma-informed therapy, and mindfulness practices, which allows me to adjust my style to what will work best for you.
In working together, it is important to cultivate an environment where you feel safe and open to discussing whatever feels important to you; nothing is off-limits. This space is one where you can expect to come as you are and feel listened to. Your unique goals and what you hope to gain from therapy are up to you, and I aim to meet you where you are. My objective is not to “fix” but to help you figure out ways to move forward in a way that feels right for you.
I additionally work with couples experiencing difficulties with communication, connection, intimacy, and attachment or experiencing general day-to-day challenges in navigating their relationship and life together. Often, we can become so wrapped up amid the same patterns and arguments that it can be hard to see beyond what happens day to day. Here, I aim to help couples understand how their attachment styles, past experiences, and communication styles may contribute to difficult and unhealthy relational patterns in the present.
I hold a Master's degree in Social Work from NYU and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Arizona. Due to my combined background in social work and psychology, I believe in the importance of fostering a non-judgmental equitable environment for the individuals I work with and bringing attention to the environmental and mental processes that affect my clients. I have a diverse background in working therapeutically with individuals with chronic mental illness within group homes and partial care mental health programs, as well as working with houseless individuals in case management.
Andrea MacFarlane-Reddy, LMSW
The journey through life is often winding and seldom straightforward. Therapy should be a place where you can come as your true and authentic self to process and understand the experiences and relationships you have along the way. My goal is to create a warm and safer space for you to come as you are, and together, we can process significant moments, relationships, and challenges to navigate the various hills and valleys on your personal journey.
With a background in social work, my approach is direct, strengths-based, and collaborative. I work through an intersectional lens where we can explore the ways that various identities and social systems and structures impact one’s experiences, perspectives, and coping mechanisms. I have experience with adolescents, college students, and adults, and work with individuals and couples facing challenges with trauma, life transitions, interpersonal, family, and relationship issues, perinatal mental health, fertility, parenting, and more. I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples and Somatic Experiencing, which we may incorporate into our work together. I am committed to holding an inclusive and anti-racist space that is affirming of individuals of all backgrounds and identities.
In addition to my role as Staff Therapist at DPS, I am also an Intake Coordinator and enjoy matching new clients with therapists at the practice.
I hold a Master of Social Work from NYU Silver School of Social Work and in addition to my work at DPS, I also have nearly a decade of experience of work in higher education with undergraduate and graduate students facing barriers to their success. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
Matthew Maher, LMSW
We all experience the same feelings, so why do we sometimes feel so misunderstood? Speaking our emotions is not always considered valuable in the worlds we have to inhabit and yet our desire to connect is one of our most primary urges. I want to join you in finding the language to communicate the wants, needs and boundaries of your experience, and with others. Therapy can be a space to engage with those parts of self truthfully and without judgment.
As an artist, I understand the drive to share parts of myself and the hope to be seen within them. As a therapist, I want to get to know you, even the aspects of yourself you might like the least, so that I can see you too. I work psychodynamically, informed by psychoanalytic, attachment and existential lenses. As a social worker, I view an individual as informed by the systems in which they live, and the decisions we have to make to navigate them are a part of our work.
With more and more individuation in our cultural lives, our most intimate relationships have become even more vital. When we don’t feel embraced by those partners we feel even more alone. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), our goal is to repair what is there, bringing the attachment and love to the surface and identifying the miscommunications that past experiences bring to the relationship now.
I have a Masters of Social Work from New York University and am licensed LMSW with the state of New York. Additionally I have trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). My pronouns are he/him/his.
Benjamin Matz, LMSW
We do our best to navigate the chaos of life, but too often our feelings and behaviors feel out of our control. Why do we act in certain ways? Why do we make self-destructive choices? Why do we so often feel anxious and depressed? These incessant questions lead us to feel that our motivations are hidden from us and that our actions may forever elude us. By exploring our past and connecting it to our present, we begin to weave a coherent tapestry that helps us understand why we are the way we are, which in turn helps us make lasting change. This is what I believe therapy is all about.
I am drawn to helping clients who have gone through trauma and patients who struggle with depression find their resilience and inner strength to cope. I am also passionate about working with individuals who ponder the great questions of life, and those who struggle with the seeming meaninglessness of life. I am an avid reader of poetry, philosophy, and spirituality and enjoy bringing all these facets into the therapy room.
I hold a Masters of Social Work from Fordham University, and have continued to advance my knowledge and skills in psychodynamic therapy through courses and trainings from the Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Study Center, Center for Psychotherapy & Psychoanalysis of New Jersey, and International Psychotherapy Institute. I have also received training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples and enjoy bringing these insights into both couples and individual therapy. My pronouns are He/Him/His.
Rashida McCarley, LMFT, Ed.S.
As a therapist, my approach is warm, empathic and dynamic. My intention is to hold space for self-exploration, safety and a healing container for growth. I subscribe to the philosophy that, “The body is a source of profound wisdom.” My intention to cultivate a safe space is essential as we create room to explore the complexity of your journey - the curated parts and the beauty of vulnerability.
My therapeutic approach is anti-oppressive, holistic, trauma-informed, gender-affirming, sex-positive, and social-justice focused. As a woman of color, I aim to create and hold space for people of diverse representations with unique intersections that can affect identity, safety and self-acceptance.
My experience as an individual and couples therapist foster a collaborative environment to explore internal dialogue, mind-body connection and attachment patterns. I utilize a myriad of cognitive and trauma-informed approaches, emotionally-focused therapy and integrative somatic parts work. Using my background in human rights and my cultural lens to advocate for families from diverse communities, I have extensive experience working in assessment and treatment in a variety of areas, including family therapy, adverse childhood experiences (ACES), sexual and gender-based violence, LGBTQ+ rights, race relations, intergenerational family pathology and somatic abolitionism. I have a Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery Certificate from Harvard Medical School, and an Education Specialist and Masters in Professional Counseling from Seton Hall University. I am currently completing a doctorate in psychology and trained in somatic stress release, somatic experiencing, trauma conscious yoga and psychoanalytic intensives.
I have been a staff therapist with Downtown Psychological Services since 2020. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
Sophie Miles, LMSW
I believe that we all possess the innate ability to heal, grow, and connect. Doing so in isolation, however, is impossible. Therapy offers us a space to give expression to unprocessed emotion in a validating environment. Being human on this earth is an incredibly rich and varied experience, and I’m committed to learning about what it feels like to be you in this world.
If you are here, you may be experiencing feelings of disconnection, anxiety, isolation, stress, or emptiness. Perhaps you come to therapy with existing habits or patterns you would like to change. Together, we can reflect on the experiences and environments that have shaped your way of showing up in the world so far. We can make space to explore the complexities of identity, including the roles of trauma, systemic injustice, and early attachment experiences. As a therapist, I strive to honor the many forces that play into our overall sense of well-being, and believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing.
I became a therapist because of my faith in the power of relationships to transform our inner and outer lives. I enjoy being active and engaged in sessions, and strive to create a sense of togetherness as we turn our attention to areas of pain, conflict, and hope. My style is warm, direct, compassionate, and creative. My work is psychodynamically grounded and pulls from AEDP and ACT frameworks. Additionally, I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, with additional training in sex/sexuality and attachment. Beyond any particular modality, however, I believe that a strong, warm and affirming therapeutic bond is the core of what makes therapy effective.
I hold a Masters of Social Work from New York University, and Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts from Oberlin College. I have provided psychotherapy to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, body image issues, academic concerns, family conflicts, identity exploration, dating, sexuality, and relationships, and struggles with self-esteem. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
Sarah Moore, MHC-LP
Reaching out and seeking support takes courage. Therapy should be a place that provides you with the space and safety to truly be yourself. You deserve to be seen, heard, and understood without fear of judgment or criticism.
My style is dynamic, collaborative, and engaging. Working from a place of empathy and warmth, my goal is to create deep and meaningful connections that facilitate the best possible outcomes for my clients’ learning, growth, and change. Together, we will work to unpack and process past experiences, understand patterns of reactions, behaviors, and communication, and gain insight to help you create a more empowered, connected, and authentic self.
I hold a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Fordham University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology from Clemson University. My prior clinical experience includes work within non-profit, intensive outpatient, and private practice settings. I have also worked and volunteered extensively with young adults with neurodivergent and developmental conditions such as ADHD, Autism, Down Syndrome, and Traumatic Brain Injuries. In addition, prior to becoming a therapist, I worked for several years as a legal assistant and have a deep familiarity with supporting individuals through family and civil litigation processes.
A main priority of my work is to provide culturally sensitive and competent counseling to clients of all ages and backgrounds. I am especially passionate about working with children of immigrants, adoptees, international students, as well as first-generation Americans. I also strive to provide compassionate, Trauma-Informed care to all clients, and have special experience working with women and individuals with chronic health issues such as PCOS and Endometriosis.
Carol Park, LCSW
I believe everyone has a unique story to tell, and every person a desire to be seen and understood. Therapy can be a space that allows for those things to unfold.
There are many reasons to seek therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or in response to changes in one’s life, or to make sense of things in times of great stress. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and strategies to help deal with all types of life challenges, whether long-standing or just emerging.
It takes a great deal of courage to begin therapy, to embark on a journey of emotional discovery towards a truer self. In therapy the journey is always a collaborative process where therapist and patient explore together with thoughtfulness and care. Psychotherapy can be enormously helpful in exploring the underlying issues that cause distress and can address those resulting emotions with a new kind of awareness and deeper understanding of oneself.
My clinical experience includes working with adults of all backgrounds with a range of concerns, including mood disorders, relationship issues, personal and professional transitions, and crises. I am particularly interested in women’s mental health, perinatal health, parenting issues, eating disorders/body image, complex trauma, intergenerational trauma, and racial/cultural identity work. Being keenly aware of a person’s sense of vulnerability in therapy I strive to create a safe space that facilitates self-exploration and personal growth. My approach is warm, empathic and personable with a technique that is interactive, supportive and designed to help a client help themselves.
While my training and orientation is primarily psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, I do work flexibly with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-based skills and strategies to meet the unique needs of any patient. (CBT is a short-term, goal-oriented treatment that takes a practical approach to problem-solving and to change patterns of thinking or behaviors that are causing pain.) I feel comfortable working with people of all cultural and racial backgrounds and above all, highly value the importance of allowing the patient to self-define the complexities of all aspects of their identity- race, culture, gender, sexual orientation and class. I bring hope, curiosity, and a gentle kindness to my practice.
I hold a Master of Social Work from Columbia University’s School of Social Work and a Master in Public Administration (Social Policy Concentration) from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. I graduated from Smith College with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Government. I am LEVEL 1 Certified in TEAM-CBT (evidence-based form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) from the Feeling Good Institute. Also, I have completed both the Two Year Program in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and the Four Year Psychoanalytic Program at the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy (ICP).
Lauren Puglisi, LMSW
Therapy is an opportunity to reflect, develop personal insight, and replace passive pattern-following with active choice-making. It is my pleasure to support you in your self-discovery and help you use the skills you already have to cope with life's difficulties. My goal is to collaborate with you in creating new possibilities, finding more joy and beauty in daily living, and becoming a more present participant in your life.
My previous experience involves working with college students and with young adults who have been impacted by the child welfare and carceral systems. I particularly enjoy working with individuals and couples throughout the lifespan navigating challenges related to family and relationships, life and career transitions, sexuality and gender, anxiety, self-esteem and imposter syndrome, the creative process and artistic professions, perfectionism and burnout, and existential questions.
I invite curiosity and self-compassion and offer an empathetic, encouraging, and patient space for you to grow. My style balances finding tangible interventions to provide immediate relief and addressing root causes through longer-term work. I mostly draw from psychodynamic practice while also incorporating CBT, DBT, somatic work, and other approaches based on your needs. I approach couples work from an attachment based lens and utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples to replace negative cycles of relating with more satisfying interaction and communication. I prioritize the relationship between the two of us as a collaborative partnership from which all else follows.
I am deeply committed to using an anti-oppressive framework that acknowledges the ways discriminatory systems and marginalization impact well-being. I follow sex-positive and harm-reduction approaches. I eagerly welcome patients of all identities and backgrounds.
Therapy is not always easy and comfortable, however I promise that I will work to make you feel seen and safe. By seeking therapy, you demonstrate a willingness to invest in yourself and seek challenges that service your growth. It is my honor to meet you where you’re at on your journey and join you in your process. I hold a Masters in Social Work from Hunter College and a B.A. from Brandeis University. My pronouns are she/her/hers.
Alexandra Robbins, LCSW
I see the therapeutic process as a collaborative journey, whereby we have the opportunity to heal and create lasting change in our perspectives and behaviors. We all develop patterns and ways of coping with life that may have served us at one point in time and may no longer be beneficial to us today. It’s common to find ourselves stuck in familiar thought-loops or relationship dynamics that are no longer working in our favor. Through uncovering the origin of these themes, we can build compassion for ourselves, which helps set the foundation for meaningful change. These patterns naturally emerge in a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship, providing us with the opportunity to make contact with and work through these themes.
I strive to cultivate a warm, caring, and safe space that is judgment-free to help my clients explore the depth of their identities and develop into the best version of themselves. I am direct and active in the therapeutic process. Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for dreams and often use dreamwork to explore aspects of the psyche to expand awareness of oneself.
I joined Downtown Psychological Services as a Staff Therapist in 2015 and also serve as a Clinical Supervisor, and The Assistant Director of Clinical Services. I hold a Masters of Social Work from New York University and a B.S.Ed from The University of Miami where I studied psychology and education. I completed a postgraduate certificate in psychodynamic psychotherapy from The Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy as well as a certificate in Eating Disorders, Compulsions & Addictions from the William Allison White Institute.
I have extensive experience providing psychotherapy to various adult populations, including those with severe mental illnesses, those working through substance misuse, compulsive behaviors, concerns about eating and body image, people from the LGBTQ+ community, as well as undergraduate/graduate students with a variety of presenting concerns. I go by Ali, and my preferred pronouns are she/her/hers.
Lauren Salazar, LMHC
I believe that healing and cultivating personal growth is a deeply personal and courageous endeavor, and I am honored to support you as you navigate this path. In my practice, I strive to create a nurturing and non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, process life’s challenges, and cultivate healthier ways of relating to yourself and others. While I have experience working with clients of many diverse backgrounds, I have particular experience working with international students, adults, and couples, as well as members of the BIPOC community.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and collaboration. I integrate trauma-informed practices such as Somatic Experiencing (SE), relational techniques, and practical skills to help you uncover your inner strengths, foster meaningful connections in your life, and cope with daily challenges you may be facing. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, challenges with perfectionism and people pleasing, a high stress job, or the aftermath of trauma, I will be with you every step of the way.
In my couples therapy work, I have training in and utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples overcome conflict resulting from negative cycles of interaction and aim to help them create a positive one. I work with couples in navigating cultural differences in their dynamic and creating a space where they feel understood and seen by each other.
I hold a master’s degree of Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University and a Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology from New York University. I trained at Mount Sinai Hospital at the Addiction Institute and have experience working with individuals with personality disorders, substance use, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and relational and interpersonal challenges.
Maureen Sheridan, LCSW
I am passionate about helping adults across the racial, ethnic, gender, age, and socioeconomic spectrum deal with difficulties ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, and sexual assault/abuse, to relationship conflict, intimate partner violence, and significant life transitions. I have a particular interest in women’s health and parenthood and have completed post-graduate training specializing in body image concerns and eating issues and am currently pursuing a certificate in maternal mental health.
My style can be best described as compassionate, interactive, and direct. I draw from a variety of perspectives including psychodynamic, relational, trauma-informed, and dialectical behavioral therapies (DBT)..
At DPS, I am the Director of Operations and also a Senior Staff Therapist. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University and a Master of Science in Higher Education from Syracuse University. I have continued to advance my knowledge through various post-graduate trainings through the Manhattan Institute for Psychoanalysis, The Linehan Institute, and the Women’s Therapy Centre Institute. In addition to my experience as a clinician, I spent 20 years in the university setting, where I managed programs that provide support and advocacy services for students in crisis.
Suzanne Sorrentino, LCSW
I am a staff therapist with Downtown Psychological Services, where I help adults at various life stages and across the cultural, socio-economic and identity spectrums, to navigate concerns related to depression and anxiety, relationships, family, grief, identity, health, and life’s many other challenges.
My approach is to work collaboratively and actively with individuals in a friendly environment to help them gain awareness of and change unhelpful or unproductive patterns and habits that may be causing them distress. My hope is to assist people in living their lives with greater ease and in keeping with their personal values and goals.
I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from New York University and have advanced training in psychodynamic techniques from the National Institute for the Psychotherapies. I also have training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) from the Beck Institute, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT).
Additionally, I am interested in the intersection of mindfulness and psychology, which brings an emphasis on helping people cultivate awareness, self-compassion and acceptance. I have a long-standing mindfulness meditation practice of my own, and am a qualified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teacher.