Photo of Melissa Portan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Melissa Portan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and mindfulness.
I am a licensed sexologist specializing in sex &relationship therapy with SYNC Psychological Services. I work with couples/individuals on relationships, sex, and sexuality issues. Some focus areas include sexual trauma, infidelity & domestic violence recovery, feeling insecure in relationships/low self-esteem, sexual exploration (gender identity, Kink/BDSM, or polyamory/ethical non-monogamy), sexual performance issues (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low arousal, difficulty reaching orgasm), childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, & PTSD. I also have extensive experience working with individuals with ADHD & Autism.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and mindfulness.
I am a licensed sexologist specializing in sex &relationship therapy with SYNC Psychological Services. I work with couples/individuals on relationships, sex, and sexuality issues. Some focus areas include sexual trauma, infidelity & domestic violence recovery, feeling insecure in relationships/low self-esteem, sexual exploration (gender identity, Kink/BDSM, or polyamory/ethical non-monogamy), sexual performance issues (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low arousal, difficulty reaching orgasm), childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, & PTSD. I also have extensive experience working with individuals with ADHD & Autism.
(332) 455-1962 View (332) 455-1962
Photo of Meg Fleming, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Meg Fleming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10009
Whether you face day-to-day stressors of life; as a parent, working professional, or partner; or have experienced a traumatic event like pregnancy loss or infertility, child birth, job loss, or divorce, we'll use various cognitive techniques to disrupt negative thoughts and internal dialogues and give you the tools to create your new narrative and outcomes.
Who we want to be and how we are in this moment can be different! I can understand firsthand how the intersectionality of multiple identities we all carry, along with life experiences can have a profound impact on our wellness and equilibrium. The great news is, I believe we all possess the skills necessary to develop into the best version of ourselves. Most importantly, it is never too late to start on the journey of self-discovery and transformation and as your therapist, I'm here to support that journey.
Whether you face day-to-day stressors of life; as a parent, working professional, or partner; or have experienced a traumatic event like pregnancy loss or infertility, child birth, job loss, or divorce, we'll use various cognitive techniques to disrupt negative thoughts and internal dialogues and give you the tools to create your new narrative and outcomes.
Who we want to be and how we are in this moment can be different! I can understand firsthand how the intersectionality of multiple identities we all carry, along with life experiences can have a profound impact on our wellness and equilibrium. The great news is, I believe we all possess the skills necessary to develop into the best version of ourselves. Most importantly, it is never too late to start on the journey of self-discovery and transformation and as your therapist, I'm here to support that journey.
(646) 916-5492 View (646) 916-5492
Photo of Mediha Kosovrasti Gega, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Mediha Kosovrasti Gega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I specialize in working with first generation individuals and families to help you better understand yourself in relation to culture, values and expectations throughout your life cycle. I understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with navigating the feelings of belonging and not belonging to a culture, and its impact on one’s sense of self. Using a trauma-informed and narrative approach, I help clients understand and heal from the effects of generational trauma and family enmeshment, while also helping you forge a relationship with your own unique story.
I specialize in working with first generation individuals and families to help you better understand yourself in relation to culture, values and expectations throughout your life cycle. I understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with navigating the feelings of belonging and not belonging to a culture, and its impact on one’s sense of self. Using a trauma-informed and narrative approach, I help clients understand and heal from the effects of generational trauma and family enmeshment, while also helping you forge a relationship with your own unique story.
View
Photo of Sara Kate Gillingham, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Sara Kate Gillingham
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I am inspired by Narrative, Experiential and IFS methods.
After decades as a writer, I felt called to become a psychotherapist to help people integrate their lives with their truth, something too often splintered by societal pressures. I believe deeply in your capacity for healing and growth; we will work collaboratively to experience a fuller range of creative expression: from joy and silliness to rage and sorrow. Transitions like coupling and decoupling, sexuality awakening, fertility and parenthood, empty-nesting, and menopause force us into personal evolution. My unique biopsychosocial and spiritual lens lets us examine modern challenges within yourself and your relationships.
I am inspired by Narrative, Experiential and IFS methods.
After decades as a writer, I felt called to become a psychotherapist to help people integrate their lives with their truth, something too often splintered by societal pressures. I believe deeply in your capacity for healing and growth; we will work collaboratively to experience a fuller range of creative expression: from joy and silliness to rage and sorrow. Transitions like coupling and decoupling, sexuality awakening, fertility and parenthood, empty-nesting, and menopause force us into personal evolution. My unique biopsychosocial and spiritual lens lets us examine modern challenges within yourself and your relationships.
(646) 956-1895 View (646) 956-1895
Photo of Mariya Pawlikowski, Counselor in New York
Mariya Pawlikowski
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fulton, NY 13069  (Online Only)
I have worked with many age ranges, using play therapy for children, talk and narrative therapy for teens and adults, and CBT for those individuals who need more structure.
Hello! My name is Mariya and I received my Master's in Counseling, with an undergrad degree in Human Development. I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in June 2020. I have worked with many individuals from many walks of life, including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, job changes, relationship concerns/issues, parenting stress and much more. I am here to provide hope, a different perspective or guidance on whatever concerns you may have.
I have worked with many age ranges, using play therapy for children, talk and narrative therapy for teens and adults, and CBT for those individuals who need more structure.
Hello! My name is Mariya and I received my Master's in Counseling, with an undergrad degree in Human Development. I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in June 2020. I have worked with many individuals from many walks of life, including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, job changes, relationship concerns/issues, parenting stress and much more. I am here to provide hope, a different perspective or guidance on whatever concerns you may have.
(315) 871-0016 View (315) 871-0016
Photo of Tanya Koifman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Tanya Koifman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
(646) 798-6332 View (646) 798-6332
Photo of Esther Han, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York
Esther Han
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Setauket, NY 11720  (Online Only)
My preferred methods of therapy include EFT, CBT, and Narrative Therapy.
Feelings of hopelessness, shame, and grief can keep us feeling stuck. Depression and anxiety can be overwhelming, making it difficult to move forward and live our lives to the fullest. If you're here, it's because you're seeking change, and by taking this first step of seeking help, you're already on the pathway to healing - you're already doing the hard work! I want to acknowledge that seeking help takes courage, and I'm here to face the hard things with you and help you work through any wounds you may have experienced.
My preferred methods of therapy include EFT, CBT, and Narrative Therapy.
Feelings of hopelessness, shame, and grief can keep us feeling stuck. Depression and anxiety can be overwhelming, making it difficult to move forward and live our lives to the fullest. If you're here, it's because you're seeking change, and by taking this first step of seeking help, you're already on the pathway to healing - you're already doing the hard work! I want to acknowledge that seeking help takes courage, and I'm here to face the hard things with you and help you work through any wounds you may have experienced.
(347) 263-8868 View (347) 263-8868
Photo of Carolyn Crocker in New York
Carolyn Crocker
MHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Let's explore your narrative, turning life's pages together.
I have experience working with adolescents and families of diverse backgrounds, both in academic and mental health settings. This was a great learning experience and allowed me to connect with individuals on a personal and emotional level. lI have facilitated groups after school, where individuals were invited to a safe space to discuss topics such as academics, family, and any personal problems they were going through. I have provided individual and group psychotherapy during my internship at Helping Hands Psychotherapy and led support groups through the Postpartum Resource Center of New York
Let's explore your narrative, turning life's pages together.
I have experience working with adolescents and families of diverse backgrounds, both in academic and mental health settings. This was a great learning experience and allowed me to connect with individuals on a personal and emotional level. lI have facilitated groups after school, where individuals were invited to a safe space to discuss topics such as academics, family, and any personal problems they were going through. I have provided individual and group psychotherapy during my internship at Helping Hands Psychotherapy and led support groups through the Postpartum Resource Center of New York
(516) 715-4933 View (516) 715-4933
Photo of Erin A Pytlak, Counselor in New York
Erin A Pytlak
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
My approach combines person centered, narrative and cognitive behavioral techniques.
Life can really suck at times! It can be scary, overwhelming, and really difficult. I hope that together, you and I can come together to draw on your inner strengths to cultivate the growth that you would like to see within yourself. I have experience working with kids, teens and adults struggling with feelings associated with anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, trauma history and body image. I enjoy working with people who are dedicated to their well-being and want someone who will join them in their journey to feeling more confident.
My approach combines person centered, narrative and cognitive behavioral techniques.
Life can really suck at times! It can be scary, overwhelming, and really difficult. I hope that together, you and I can come together to draw on your inner strengths to cultivate the growth that you would like to see within yourself. I have experience working with kids, teens and adults struggling with feelings associated with anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, trauma history and body image. I enjoy working with people who are dedicated to their well-being and want someone who will join them in their journey to feeling more confident.
(585) 204-2173 View (585) 204-2173
Photo of Isha Kumar, Counselor in New York
Isha Kumar
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Isha uses an eclectic and client-centered approach to meet clients where they are at, and provides a secure, comfortable, genuine, and totally accepting environment individualized to every client. Drawing from psychodynamic, multicultural, feminist, emotion-focused, and narrative approached, she uses warmth and empathy to create a trusting therapeutic relationship, and aims to help clients attain self-awareness and actualization, and empower them to foster growth and change. Isha has prior experience working with diverse populations - children, adolescents, and adults, as well as individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
Isha uses an eclectic and client-centered approach to meet clients where they are at, and provides a secure, comfortable, genuine, and totally accepting environment individualized to every client. Drawing from psychodynamic, multicultural, feminist, emotion-focused, and narrative approached, she uses warmth and empathy to create a trusting therapeutic relationship, and aims to help clients attain self-awareness and actualization, and empower them to foster growth and change. Isha has prior experience working with diverse populations - children, adolescents, and adults, as well as individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
(646) 692-0903 View (646) 692-0903
Photo of Megan Wessler, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Megan Wessler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
With a collaborative and affirming approach to therapy, Megan’s practice is grounded in the belief that every individual has the capacity for continuous growth and self-discovery. Using compassion and authenticity, Megan draws from a variety of therapeutic influences including person-centered, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and narrative approaches to meet the unique needs of each client.
With a collaborative and affirming approach to therapy, Megan’s practice is grounded in the belief that every individual has the capacity for continuous growth and self-discovery. Using compassion and authenticity, Megan draws from a variety of therapeutic influences including person-centered, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and narrative approaches to meet the unique needs of each client.
(929) 538-3087 View (929) 538-3087
Piali Mukhopadhyay
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
My approach is anchored in psychodynamic theory and practice; however, I recognize the value of a flexible orientation in which other techniques - whether CBT, narrative, or solutions-based - are recruited as needed.
I believe that individuals hold a great deal of expertise about their own lives. Psychotherapy is not a process of prescription, but rather one of co-exploration. In my view, a therapeutic alliance grounded in empathy, curiosity, and shared purpose can be the site of profound healing and insight generation.
My approach is anchored in psychodynamic theory and practice; however, I recognize the value of a flexible orientation in which other techniques - whether CBT, narrative, or solutions-based - are recruited as needed.
I believe that individuals hold a great deal of expertise about their own lives. Psychotherapy is not a process of prescription, but rather one of co-exploration. In my view, a therapeutic alliance grounded in empathy, curiosity, and shared purpose can be the site of profound healing and insight generation.
(332) 244-2928 View (332) 244-2928
Photo of Brooke Langford, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York
Brooke Langford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I also have years of experience providing therapy to teens, young adults, and middle-aged adults using client-centered, strengths-based, narrative, and CBT approaches.
I am a licensed therapist committed to helping clients learn new skills to build stronger, healthier relationships, increase emotional expression, and gain confidence within themselves. My goal is to create a safe space where clients can positively process life experiences in a non-judgmental environment. I'm committed to meeting you where you are at and supporting your individual journey towards healing and growth. I utilize a variety of different approaches to ensure that our work together is tailored to your specific situation and goals. Our sessions will challenge you and together, we will work towards overcoming obstacles.
I also have years of experience providing therapy to teens, young adults, and middle-aged adults using client-centered, strengths-based, narrative, and CBT approaches.
I am a licensed therapist committed to helping clients learn new skills to build stronger, healthier relationships, increase emotional expression, and gain confidence within themselves. My goal is to create a safe space where clients can positively process life experiences in a non-judgmental environment. I'm committed to meeting you where you are at and supporting your individual journey towards healing and growth. I utilize a variety of different approaches to ensure that our work together is tailored to your specific situation and goals. Our sessions will challenge you and together, we will work towards overcoming obstacles.
(347) 983-6614 View (347) 983-6614
Photo of Alex Kurjiaka, Licensed Professional Counselor in New York
Alex Kurjiaka
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583  (Online Only)
I utilize a blend of motivational interviewing, CBT and DBT skills, narrative therapy, and mindfulness techniques to encourage clients to be authentically engaged in therapy.
Welcome! Thank you for visiting. Exploring our humanness can be hard. I will do my best to hear you and encourage a way forward that makes sense for you and your needs. I am an LPC with a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Western Connecticut State University. I have worked in the field of behavioral health for 12 years and specialize in addiction, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety drawing from trauma-informed, psychodynamic, and family systems approaches.
I utilize a blend of motivational interviewing, CBT and DBT skills, narrative therapy, and mindfulness techniques to encourage clients to be authentically engaged in therapy.
Welcome! Thank you for visiting. Exploring our humanness can be hard. I will do my best to hear you and encourage a way forward that makes sense for you and your needs. I am an LPC with a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Western Connecticut State University. I have worked in the field of behavioral health for 12 years and specialize in addiction, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety drawing from trauma-informed, psychodynamic, and family systems approaches.
(914) 353-3150 View (914) 353-3150
Photo of Pamela Sloane, Counselor in New York
Pamela Sloane
Counselor, LMHC, LCC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10039  (Online Only)
Pamela’s focus is on helping clients improve their self-esteem and self-efficacy by overcoming the negative self-talk that can lead to feelings of frustration and low self-worth. Her style balances warmth and empathy with an active and direct approach, using humor and creativity to engage her clients in strength-based, collaborative interventions. Her method is eclectic, drawing mainly from REBT, Mindfulness, and Narrative Therapy. Pamela believes the best way for a person to explore complicated feelings is in a safe space, free from judgment.
Pamela’s focus is on helping clients improve their self-esteem and self-efficacy by overcoming the negative self-talk that can lead to feelings of frustration and low self-worth. Her style balances warmth and empathy with an active and direct approach, using humor and creativity to engage her clients in strength-based, collaborative interventions. Her method is eclectic, drawing mainly from REBT, Mindfulness, and Narrative Therapy. Pamela believes the best way for a person to explore complicated feelings is in a safe space, free from judgment.
(646) 535-7045 View (646) 535-7045
Photo of Jacqueline D. Brown, LMHC, Counselor in New York
Jacqueline D. Brown, LMHC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
Modalities: CBT, Reality Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychoanalysis.
Therapy is healthy! We should speak with someone regarding our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Are you facing issues that you need help to work through? Do you have a life goal that you would like to achieve? Is it difficult to adjust to lifestyle changes? I want to be the licensed professional to help you work through them. We will work together to help you achieve your goal.
Modalities: CBT, Reality Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychoanalysis.
Therapy is healthy! We should speak with someone regarding our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Are you facing issues that you need help to work through? Do you have a life goal that you would like to achieve? Is it difficult to adjust to lifestyle changes? I want to be the licensed professional to help you work through them. We will work together to help you achieve your goal.
(929) 955-1240 View (929) 955-1240
Photo of Catherine Verano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Catherine Verano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults, families, couples, and groups. I utilize a psychodynamic perspective influenced by existential psychotherapy and family systems, and incorporate Gestalt techniques and elements of narrative therapy. I have a foundational training in DBT and, depending on client’s needs, will teach concrete skills to strengthen emotion regulation, decrease anxious/ depressive symptoms, increase resilience and distress tolerance, improve communication, and strengthen boundaries in relationships.
I enjoy working with adults, families, couples, and groups. I utilize a psychodynamic perspective influenced by existential psychotherapy and family systems, and incorporate Gestalt techniques and elements of narrative therapy. I have a foundational training in DBT and, depending on client’s needs, will teach concrete skills to strengthen emotion regulation, decrease anxious/ depressive symptoms, increase resilience and distress tolerance, improve communication, and strengthen boundaries in relationships.
(929) 930-4168 View (929) 930-4168
Photo of Hannah Schiffman, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Hannah Schiffman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
I primarily utilize Narrative therapy as a foundation to incorporate elements from more structured Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical therapies, which is meant to help clients foster connection, growth, and understanding in their lives and relationships.
I understand the importance of having a safe place to express oneself without fear of being judged. I truly believe that it is never too late to learn new skills and endeavor to encourage self-awareness and self-confidence for my clients who are struggling to accept or understand themselves. I am particularly passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals, and have specialized training working with people who have ADHD and executive functioning challenges. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan and look forward to collaborating with clients to develop a safe space in which to develop personalized treatment.
I primarily utilize Narrative therapy as a foundation to incorporate elements from more structured Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical therapies, which is meant to help clients foster connection, growth, and understanding in their lives and relationships.
I understand the importance of having a safe place to express oneself without fear of being judged. I truly believe that it is never too late to learn new skills and endeavor to encourage self-awareness and self-confidence for my clients who are struggling to accept or understand themselves. I am particularly passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals, and have specialized training working with people who have ADHD and executive functioning challenges. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan and look forward to collaborating with clients to develop a safe space in which to develop personalized treatment.
(347) 919-7241 View (347) 919-7241
Photo of Margot Werner, Creative Arts Therapist in New York
Margot Werner
Creative Arts Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11232  (Online Only)
If you are hoping to grow and reframe your narrative, I am here to work with you.
My approach to working with clients is to create a welcoming environment where the pace is guided by you. Together we can move toward creating a clearer mind. So much of therapy is to discover the root of our feelings. We often get there by processing through somatic work, art-making, and sometimes humor. I am a trained Creative Arts Psychotherapist. You do not have to have "artistic skills" to benefit from working with an art therapist.
If you are hoping to grow and reframe your narrative, I am here to work with you.
My approach to working with clients is to create a welcoming environment where the pace is guided by you. Together we can move toward creating a clearer mind. So much of therapy is to discover the root of our feelings. We often get there by processing through somatic work, art-making, and sometimes humor. I am a trained Creative Arts Psychotherapist. You do not have to have "artistic skills" to benefit from working with an art therapist.
(718) 831-6158 View (718) 831-6158
Photo of Siyi Lai, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Siyi Lai
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I understand you might feel stuck in the past or the same negative loop and haven’t found any meaningful progress by talking to yourself, your family, or friends. My goal is not only to give you the tools to relieve your symptoms and better cope with specific situations but also to transform your narrative and generate sustainable growth. I use an integrative and tailored approach to meet your needs and cultural values. Combining systemic and relational framework, and mindfulness practice, I’ll help you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and align them to achieve what you most value in life.
I understand you might feel stuck in the past or the same negative loop and haven’t found any meaningful progress by talking to yourself, your family, or friends. My goal is not only to give you the tools to relieve your symptoms and better cope with specific situations but also to transform your narrative and generate sustainable growth. I use an integrative and tailored approach to meet your needs and cultural values. Combining systemic and relational framework, and mindfulness practice, I’ll help you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and align them to achieve what you most value in life.
(646) 798-7664 View (646) 798-7664
Narrative Therapists

Is narrative therapy evidence-based?

Narrative therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Some small studies do show that depressed and anxious individuals who were treated with narrative therapy reported improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms.

How long does narrative therapy last?

Narrative therapy is less structured when compared with psychoanalysis, for example. Narrative therapy is more open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a few months, and sometimes a year or longer. Patients see their therapist one to two times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a person’s challenges and progress. Individuals can also practice the principles of narrative therapy after treatment has ended.

Does narrative therapy work?

Narrative therapy can help a person manage or reduce symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety. This type of therapy encourages a person to reflect on the moments of their life when their particular problem was not at the forefront of their minds—perhaps life celebrations, achievements, and other successes. The individual is encouraged to rewrite their storyline as if their particular problem was not part of their life. This therapy may offer benefits that are hard to measure.

What are the possible limitations of narrative therapy?

Narrative therapy is person-centered or client-centered, and the health professional pays more attention to the subjective narratives that are constructed by the client, as opposed to other objective measures. The therapist privileges the individual’s perspective over all others. This open form may feel frustrating for individuals seeking a more structured approach; certainly, no one therapy type will work for every individual.