Therapists in New York
Saima Toppa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016 (Online Only)
I offer culturally-sensitive therapy for clients looking for providers with knowledge of South Asian immigrant experience and/or of Muslim identity.
Maybe you've tried talk therapy and still find yourself stuck in a destructive loop of thoughts and behaviors? For true whole-body healing, you need a variety of cognitive and somatic approaches. My clinical approach is for clients to reshape the narrative of painful experiences by reconnecting to their internal strengths and the body's own natural propensity to heal. Through changing self-talk, old attachment patterns, and learning tools of nervous system regulation, we can cultivate new neural pathways that allow you to flourish. My hope is to offer you a sacred space to be heard, loved, and celebrated for your authentic self.
I offer culturally-sensitive therapy for clients looking for providers with knowledge of South Asian immigrant experience and/or of Muslim identity.
Maybe you've tried talk therapy and still find yourself stuck in a destructive loop of thoughts and behaviors? For true whole-body healing, you need a variety of cognitive and somatic approaches. My clinical approach is for clients to reshape the narrative of painful experiences by reconnecting to their internal strengths and the body's own natural propensity to heal. Through changing self-talk, old attachment patterns, and learning tools of nervous system regulation, we can cultivate new neural pathways that allow you to flourish. My hope is to offer you a sacred space to be heard, loved, and celebrated for your authentic self.
I specialize in treating anxiety and depression in the context of stress. I support adults, adolescents, children, and families who want to improve well-being by finding meaning, truth, courage, and resilience. I work with clients of all cultural and religious backgrounds, but especially have an understanding of the intersectional experiences of Muslim Americans. I help clients find relief from anxiety and depression and develop successful stress-management skills. I know the impacts of traumatic stress and can help you navigate through your experiences. My goal is to help my clients discover their full potential.
I specialize in treating anxiety and depression in the context of stress. I support adults, adolescents, children, and families who want to improve well-being by finding meaning, truth, courage, and resilience. I work with clients of all cultural and religious backgrounds, but especially have an understanding of the intersectional experiences of Muslim Americans. I help clients find relief from anxiety and depression and develop successful stress-management skills. I know the impacts of traumatic stress and can help you navigate through your experiences. My goal is to help my clients discover their full potential.
Senath A Mossallam
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arverne, NY 11692 (Online Only)
As a Muslim therapist of color who values and appreciates spirituality and culture, it is important to me that within therapy my client feels safe and supported through an ethical, empathetic and genuine environment.
Trial and error was the foundation of getting through life obstacles, no matter the intensity of it. Big, serious decisions seemed to be something that I just had to pray about and move through them not factoring in reality. At times leaving me in a pit of feelings of sadness, loneliness, and anger. Trial and error shouldn't be the only way to get through life.
As a Muslim therapist of color who values and appreciates spirituality and culture, it is important to me that within therapy my client feels safe and supported through an ethical, empathetic and genuine environment.
Trial and error was the foundation of getting through life obstacles, no matter the intensity of it. Big, serious decisions seemed to be something that I just had to pray about and move through them not factoring in reality. At times leaving me in a pit of feelings of sadness, loneliness, and anger. Trial and error shouldn't be the only way to get through life.
Working with me, you will experience a warm, collaborative, tailored, safe, social justice-oriented, and strength-based environment. My focus is on working with clients that are facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity struggles, career stress and transition, and existential crisis. I specialize in counseling marginalized (South Asian, Middle Eastern, Muslim, LGBTQ+) communities, students/international students, entrepreneurs and C-Suite executives, clients in the consulting and finance industry, and folx from the queer community.
Working with me, you will experience a warm, collaborative, tailored, safe, social justice-oriented, and strength-based environment. My focus is on working with clients that are facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity struggles, career stress and transition, and existential crisis. I specialize in counseling marginalized (South Asian, Middle Eastern, Muslim, LGBTQ+) communities, students/international students, entrepreneurs and C-Suite executives, clients in the consulting and finance industry, and folx from the queer community.
Farhana Begum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106 (Online Only)
My South Asian roots, immigrant story, and Muslim identity have given me a deeper connection and understanding of the diverse tapestry of life experiences.
Steeped in 18 years of heart and hustle, my journey began in 2002, fresh out of Hunter College with a master's degree in social work. Since then, I've walked alongside a beautiful mix of people: the spirited youth, busy adults, and our cherished elderly. Whether it's guiding teenagers through their roller-coaster years, helping adults navigate life's twists and turns, calming the storms of ADHD, offering a safe harbor to those facing anxiety or depression, or standing strong with survivors of domestic violence, I’m there — steady, understanding, and ready to help.
My South Asian roots, immigrant story, and Muslim identity have given me a deeper connection and understanding of the diverse tapestry of life experiences.
Steeped in 18 years of heart and hustle, my journey began in 2002, fresh out of Hunter College with a master's degree in social work. Since then, I've walked alongside a beautiful mix of people: the spirited youth, busy adults, and our cherished elderly. Whether it's guiding teenagers through their roller-coaster years, helping adults navigate life's twists and turns, calming the storms of ADHD, offering a safe harbor to those facing anxiety or depression, or standing strong with survivors of domestic violence, I’m there — steady, understanding, and ready to help.
My niche is in working with queer clients of color specifically within, though not limited to, Muslim, South Asian, & Middle Eastern communities.
The struggles many of us face today can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and hopelessness. Even with the various uncontrollable factors that impact each of our lives, we have a tendency to blame ourselves for our emotional experiences. My goal as your therapist is to hold a supportive and compassionate space for you to process and heal your emotional wounds.
My niche is in working with queer clients of color specifically within, though not limited to, Muslim, South Asian, & Middle Eastern communities.
The struggles many of us face today can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and hopelessness. Even with the various uncontrollable factors that impact each of our lives, we have a tendency to blame ourselves for our emotional experiences. My goal as your therapist is to hold a supportive and compassionate space for you to process and heal your emotional wounds.
I work with folks of diverse religious traditions, with a particular focus on the Muslim American community.
I believe healing happens through relationships. When we can share all parts of ourselves with another and be truly seen. Witnessed. Understood. The messy, the dark, the confusing and the seemingly unlovable. All parts of you are welcome here. You’re invited to bring your whole self to each session where you will be seen, heard, and validated. From a place of openness and curiosity, I provide a warm and affirming space for you to heal and grow. You don’t have to do it alone, I would be honored and humbled to join you.
I work with folks of diverse religious traditions, with a particular focus on the Muslim American community.
I believe healing happens through relationships. When we can share all parts of ourselves with another and be truly seen. Witnessed. Understood. The messy, the dark, the confusing and the seemingly unlovable. All parts of you are welcome here. You’re invited to bring your whole self to each session where you will be seen, heard, and validated. From a place of openness and curiosity, I provide a warm and affirming space for you to heal and grow. You don’t have to do it alone, I would be honored and humbled to join you.
Dr. Nazia Denese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11209 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As one of the only South Asian and Muslim psychologists on the East Coast (including NYC & Boston), I am also dedicated to providing safe spaces for those seeking a skilled mental health provider with similar cultural and religious values and life experiences.
I'm a Columbia (PhD) & Harvard trained psychologist skilled in treating adults, teens, and kids with anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and oppositionality. I have particular expertise in treating selective mutism and coaching parents (PCIT certified). I provide online therapy Mon-Fri & Sun in New York (NY).
As one of the only South Asian and Muslim psychologists on the East Coast (including NYC & Boston), I am also dedicated to providing safe spaces for those seeking a skilled mental health provider with similar cultural and religious values and life experiences.
I'm a Columbia (PhD) & Harvard trained psychologist skilled in treating adults, teens, and kids with anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and oppositionality. I have particular expertise in treating selective mutism and coaching parents (PCIT certified). I provide online therapy Mon-Fri & Sun in New York (NY).
I specialize providing therapy for women who are Arab/South Asian or people of various backgrounds. I am a first-generation Muslim Arab American, born and raised in NYC. In my early years and adulthood, accessing resources and services that felt inclusive and culturally sensitive was challenging. My own journey in healing has sparked a desire to provide culturally sensitive care to people from all walks of life.
I specialize providing therapy for women who are Arab/South Asian or people of various backgrounds. I am a first-generation Muslim Arab American, born and raised in NYC. In my early years and adulthood, accessing resources and services that felt inclusive and culturally sensitive was challenging. My own journey in healing has sparked a desire to provide culturally sensitive care to people from all walks of life.
Mona El-Shahat
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elmont, NY 11003 (Online Only)
I have worked with a diverse group of people with a primary focus on underrepresented groups including BIPOC, biracial, multiracial, LGBTQIA+, immigrant and first-gen communities, international students, Muslim communities and women.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
I have worked with a diverse group of people with a primary focus on underrepresented groups including BIPOC, biracial, multiracial, LGBTQIA+, immigrant and first-gen communities, international students, Muslim communities and women.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
As a Mental Health Advocate, I give speeches all over the nation to reduce stigma around Mental Health and encourage people to seek professional counseling, rather than “just talking to a friend about it or not talk about their problems at all”. As a Pakistani, Muslim immigrant who came to America with no knowledge of mental health, I understand how the confusion of identities, societal pressure to fit in and cultural differences can create emotional turmoil. Being in the mental health field for over 7 years, has allowed me to evolve as a Mental Health public speaker, who helps those with anxiety, depression and suicidal ideations,
As a Mental Health Advocate, I give speeches all over the nation to reduce stigma around Mental Health and encourage people to seek professional counseling, rather than “just talking to a friend about it or not talk about their problems at all”. As a Pakistani, Muslim immigrant who came to America with no knowledge of mental health, I understand how the confusion of identities, societal pressure to fit in and cultural differences can create emotional turmoil. Being in the mental health field for over 7 years, has allowed me to evolve as a Mental Health public speaker, who helps those with anxiety, depression and suicidal ideations,
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Farah Hussain Asghar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
My identities include being South Asian, Muslim, a first-generation American/daughter of immigrants, neurodivergent, and a mother.
Accepting new clients in TX & NY! - Are you struggling with your identity or traumas? Do you need help managing the multiple stressors in your life, especially as a mom? Or maybe your anxiety is getting the best of you and you want to improve communication in your relationships? Acknowledging that you need help is the first step, so I'm glad you're here. I know firsthand how daunting it can be to reach out, and I hope you know how brave you are. If you're ready to make a change, or even if you're on the fence, I would love to see if we're a good fit for one another.
My identities include being South Asian, Muslim, a first-generation American/daughter of immigrants, neurodivergent, and a mother.
Accepting new clients in TX & NY! - Are you struggling with your identity or traumas? Do you need help managing the multiple stressors in your life, especially as a mom? Or maybe your anxiety is getting the best of you and you want to improve communication in your relationships? Acknowledging that you need help is the first step, so I'm glad you're here. I know firsthand how daunting it can be to reach out, and I hope you know how brave you are. If you're ready to make a change, or even if you're on the fence, I would love to see if we're a good fit for one another.
Wardeh C Hattab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I integrate specialized approaches in my work with folks who identify as Muslim, Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian.
It can feel daunting to begin therapy. You may know you are struggling with your relationships, work, or personal fulfillment yet it can feel difficult to seek help. In my practice, I will work with you in a safe space to explore and address the difficulties the prevent you from living a fulfilling life. I utilize eclectic approaches including psychodynamic, relational, existential, and attachment-based theories. You can learn more about my practice at www.hattabtherapy.com
I integrate specialized approaches in my work with folks who identify as Muslim, Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian.
It can feel daunting to begin therapy. You may know you are struggling with your relationships, work, or personal fulfillment yet it can feel difficult to seek help. In my practice, I will work with you in a safe space to explore and address the difficulties the prevent you from living a fulfilling life. I utilize eclectic approaches including psychodynamic, relational, existential, and attachment-based theories. You can learn more about my practice at www.hattabtherapy.com
While I love my work with all human experiences, I have specific insight and interest in working with members of the Muslim community. I provide individual and couples therapy and have special sensitivity to the culture, dynamics and nuances of an Islamic lifestyle in Western society. I work with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, intimacy challenges and navigating the professional world. In addition, I have special insight into intersectionality and what it means to have multiple identities. I work with clients who seek to incorporate and process their experience as an intersectional person.
While I love my work with all human experiences, I have specific insight and interest in working with members of the Muslim community. I provide individual and couples therapy and have special sensitivity to the culture, dynamics and nuances of an Islamic lifestyle in Western society. I work with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, intimacy challenges and navigating the professional world. In addition, I have special insight into intersectionality and what it means to have multiple identities. I work with clients who seek to incorporate and process their experience as an intersectional person.
Bisma Anwar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106 (Online Only)
Bisma Anwar has been a mental health therapist for over a decade. Her work experiences have been in hospitals, non-profits, mental health clinics, and digital mental health startups. Throughout her career she has worked with community based organizations, spoken at panels, done workshops and webinars to provide education and awareness of various mental health issues. Over the years, she has been quoted in the New York Times, Time Magazine, Popsugar, Buzzfeed, and many other media outlets.
Bisma Anwar has been a mental health therapist for over a decade. Her work experiences have been in hospitals, non-profits, mental health clinics, and digital mental health startups. Throughout her career she has worked with community based organizations, spoken at panels, done workshops and webinars to provide education and awareness of various mental health issues. Over the years, she has been quoted in the New York Times, Time Magazine, Popsugar, Buzzfeed, and many other media outlets.
We are authorized to do business as Q’Lective Therapy, though the official name through the NYS Office of Professions is Intersecting Mental Health Counseling Psychotherapy, PLLC. We are a group of queer, trans & non-binary, neurodivergent therapists who aim to serve our community. We provide accessible mental health care for folks from historically marginalized and oppressed communities. We work with children, adolescents, adults, couples/polycules, families, and groups. We specialize in gender, sexuality, kink, BDSM, non-monogamy, sex work, neurodivergence, trauma, mood disorders, racial identity, and intersectionality.
We are authorized to do business as Q’Lective Therapy, though the official name through the NYS Office of Professions is Intersecting Mental Health Counseling Psychotherapy, PLLC. We are a group of queer, trans & non-binary, neurodivergent therapists who aim to serve our community. We provide accessible mental health care for folks from historically marginalized and oppressed communities. We work with children, adolescents, adults, couples/polycules, families, and groups. We specialize in gender, sexuality, kink, BDSM, non-monogamy, sex work, neurodivergence, trauma, mood disorders, racial identity, and intersectionality.
Has it been hard for you to find a safe space to talk through difficult feelings and situations without being judged? Life can be incredibly overwhelming, and you do not have to confront these challenges by yourself. Whether it's anxiety, traumatic experiences, substance abuse, chronic illness, or chronic pain, I'm here to offer you my full support with compassion and empathy.
Has it been hard for you to find a safe space to talk through difficult feelings and situations without being judged? Life can be incredibly overwhelming, and you do not have to confront these challenges by yourself. Whether it's anxiety, traumatic experiences, substance abuse, chronic illness, or chronic pain, I'm here to offer you my full support with compassion and empathy.
Logan Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Monroe, NY 13167 (Online Only)
I will help you address the stress that goes on in your life. It is my hope that I will be able to help you find the positive in any challenging situation and provide you with the skills and confidence to succeed. Everyone goes through challenging times in life and could use some support. It is important to know you are not alone in how you are feel.
I will help you address the stress that goes on in your life. It is my hope that I will be able to help you find the positive in any challenging situation and provide you with the skills and confidence to succeed. Everyone goes through challenging times in life and could use some support. It is important to know you are not alone in how you are feel.
I believe that every individual has great potential and deserves to live a fulfilling life; I also recognize that difficulties and obstacles are inevitable. My goal for therapy is to create a safe space for my clients to explore how those difficulties and obstacles may affect them — physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually — and to use the therapeutic space to practice bringing forward their strengths so that they can see themselves beyond their problems. When you come to me, you’re not just my client. You’re a fellow human with hopes, dreams, vulnerabilities, strengths, weaknesses and ultimately potential.
I believe that every individual has great potential and deserves to live a fulfilling life; I also recognize that difficulties and obstacles are inevitable. My goal for therapy is to create a safe space for my clients to explore how those difficulties and obstacles may affect them — physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually — and to use the therapeutic space to practice bringing forward their strengths so that they can see themselves beyond their problems. When you come to me, you’re not just my client. You’re a fellow human with hopes, dreams, vulnerabilities, strengths, weaknesses and ultimately potential.
Sephiratu Wahab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Sephiratu (Sephi) Raji Wahab. I am a wife and a mother of two beautiful teenagers. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated in 2010 with a master’s in social work from Binghamton University, NY, and later obtained my PhD in psychology in 2020. I have experience practicing psychotherapy in various settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinic, residential treatment facilities for over 12 years now. My areas of expertise include but are not limited to treating OCD, bipolar, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, etc.
My name is Dr. Sephiratu (Sephi) Raji Wahab. I am a wife and a mother of two beautiful teenagers. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated in 2010 with a master’s in social work from Binghamton University, NY, and later obtained my PhD in psychology in 2020. I have experience practicing psychotherapy in various settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinic, residential treatment facilities for over 12 years now. My areas of expertise include but are not limited to treating OCD, bipolar, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, etc.
See more therapy options for New York
Muslim Therapists
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
A culturally sensitive therapist will be respectful of faith, race, sexual orientation, gender, age, disabilities, or anything that is relevant to an individual’s reasons for seeking therapy. This mental health practitioner will therefore be able to recognize the role of faith in a client’s life, and they can appreciate the cultural values and beliefs of others. Cultural sensitivity on the part of the therapist may enhance the possibility of a strong therapeutic bond, even if the clinician does not have an extensive understanding of a client’s background before therapy begins.
How might I inquire about a therapist's experience with Muslim clients?
It is best to ask directly whether a therapist has worked with Muslim clients, and if so, the extent to which cultural or religious principles factored into their work together. You can also ask whether a therapist who is familiar with Islamic practices, values, and beliefs incorporates them into their professional work, and if so, how. If the therapist does not have a sufficient knowledge base, they may well know and can refer you to someone who has such experience.
What if the therapist does not have my exact background?
It is not necessary for a therapist to share one’s exact religious background for therapy to be successful. A qualified and culturally sensitive therapist will appreciate diversity within the Muslim community as well as diversity overall, and will have a sense of how religious and cultural issues can contribute to mental health. In addition, a good therapist would be willing to learn from their clients.
How do I recognize an effective Muslim therapist?
Like all therapists, a Muslim therapist who is effective will have the requisite training and expertise in evidence-based techniques, as well as the ability to connect with you on a personal level. An effective Muslim therapist may also demonstrate a clear understanding of your cultural background and faith. A therapist with such cultural sensitivity will set the stage for a strong therapeutic alliance.
Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of the Muslim faith?
The directory of Muslim therapists includes mental health providers who have shared their cultural background in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist with a similar background. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists identified as Muslim is limited, the directory will also show therapists with extensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.