Therapists in New York, NY
My experience in the mental health field has reinforced my belief that therapy is grounded in connection, compassion, and understanding. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to explore themselves and their experiences.
I consider it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they gain insight into their past, navigate present challenges, and work toward meaningful change. I believe each person is the expert in their own life, and my role is to support them in developing self-awareness, recognizing blind spots, and building resilience to enhance their overall well-being.
My experience in the mental health field has reinforced my belief that therapy is grounded in connection, compassion, and understanding. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to explore themselves and their experiences.
I consider it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they gain insight into their past, navigate present challenges, and work toward meaningful change. I believe each person is the expert in their own life, and my role is to support them in developing self-awareness, recognizing blind spots, and building resilience to enhance their overall well-being.
I believe that therapy is, among other things, a relationship in which two people share the goal of better understanding the aspirations and difficulties that impede a person's ability to becoming his or her true, authentic self. When there is trust and cooperation, clients are able to discover aspects of themselves they did not know were there and to achieve more productive and satisfying lives. I initially studied English literature and a number of years later, obtained a masters degree in psychology and a MSW from NYU.
I believe that therapy is, among other things, a relationship in which two people share the goal of better understanding the aspirations and difficulties that impede a person's ability to becoming his or her true, authentic self. When there is trust and cooperation, clients are able to discover aspects of themselves they did not know were there and to achieve more productive and satisfying lives. I initially studied English literature and a number of years later, obtained a masters degree in psychology and a MSW from NYU.
My primary focus is on adults and young adults who find themselves facing various mental health challenges. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common issues I encounter, and I am deeply committed to supporting individuals as they navigate these experiences. Additionally, I assist clients in managing interpersonal challenges, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, life transitions, work-related pressures, as well as other external factors that may contribute to a high-stress environment. It takes courage to embark on this work and I am here to support and champion your greatest source of strength: yourself.
My primary focus is on adults and young adults who find themselves facing various mental health challenges. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common issues I encounter, and I am deeply committed to supporting individuals as they navigate these experiences. Additionally, I assist clients in managing interpersonal challenges, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, life transitions, work-related pressures, as well as other external factors that may contribute to a high-stress environment. It takes courage to embark on this work and I am here to support and champion your greatest source of strength: yourself.
I’m a trauma-informed therapist specializing in relationships, dating, intimacy, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and grief & loss. At the heart of my work is relationship—with yourself, with others, and with intimacy. Much of what we carry lives in the body and shows up in communication and relationship patterns, self-worth, and boundaries. The wounds that hurt most often trace back to how we learned to attach, love, and protect ourselves, and therapy offers a collaborative, safe space to process, heal, and step into a life that feels safe, empowered, alive, loving, and fully your own.
I’m a trauma-informed therapist specializing in relationships, dating, intimacy, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and grief & loss. At the heart of my work is relationship—with yourself, with others, and with intimacy. Much of what we carry lives in the body and shows up in communication and relationship patterns, self-worth, and boundaries. The wounds that hurt most often trace back to how we learned to attach, love, and protect ourselves, and therapy offers a collaborative, safe space to process, heal, and step into a life that feels safe, empowered, alive, loving, and fully your own.
Let’s be honest—life can be a lot, and therapy shouldn’t feel like another stressful task. I offer a warm, down-to-earth space where you can show up as yourself—no perfect answers required. Together, we’ll unpack what’s weighing on you, laugh when it helps, challenge patterns that keep you stuck, and create changes that genuinely fit your life.
Let’s be honest—life can be a lot, and therapy shouldn’t feel like another stressful task. I offer a warm, down-to-earth space where you can show up as yourself—no perfect answers required. Together, we’ll unpack what’s weighing on you, laugh when it helps, challenge patterns that keep you stuck, and create changes that genuinely fit your life.
I have a warm, sensitive, and interactive approach, creating a rich discussion about what brings you to therapy. Feeling understood increases self-awareness and improves insight. I emphatically believe that having a place in your life where you can say all your feelings and thoughts is important in creating a grounded identity. Learning about the choices you've been making and talking about what you want to continue assists in understanding what you want to do differently.
Licensed for psychotherapy in Washington State (license SWI.LW.70058358), New Jersey and New York.
I have a warm, sensitive, and interactive approach, creating a rich discussion about what brings you to therapy. Feeling understood increases self-awareness and improves insight. I emphatically believe that having a place in your life where you can say all your feelings and thoughts is important in creating a grounded identity. Learning about the choices you've been making and talking about what you want to continue assists in understanding what you want to do differently.
Licensed for psychotherapy in Washington State (license SWI.LW.70058358), New Jersey and New York.
Are you constantly feeling like you’re not good enough, no matter how hard you try? Do you feel the pressure to have it all together? Maybe you’ve been trying so hard to be perfect that you’re exhausted and still never feel like you measure up. Or perhaps you’ve been stuck in cycles of self-criticism, anxiety, or disordered eating that just won’t seem to go away. You don’t have to figure this out alone. In therapy with me, you’ll find a safe space where you don’t have to be “perfect” to be worthy of care. Together, we’ll explore what’s getting in the way of feeling comfortable in your own skin.
Are you constantly feeling like you’re not good enough, no matter how hard you try? Do you feel the pressure to have it all together? Maybe you’ve been trying so hard to be perfect that you’re exhausted and still never feel like you measure up. Or perhaps you’ve been stuck in cycles of self-criticism, anxiety, or disordered eating that just won’t seem to go away. You don’t have to figure this out alone. In therapy with me, you’ll find a safe space where you don’t have to be “perfect” to be worthy of care. Together, we’ll explore what’s getting in the way of feeling comfortable in your own skin.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist (NYU-Bellevue-trained, former clinical faculty at Yale School of Medicine) with over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I see private-pay clients across CT and NY (via telehealth and in person). My clients are high-achieving professionals navigating life transitions, career changes, relationship challenges, and questions of identity. I work effectively with a range of clients but also provide culturally attuned therapy for Asian/ Asian American clients and the LGBTQ community, assuring affirming care that speaks to the particular stress of living and working between cultures.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist (NYU-Bellevue-trained, former clinical faculty at Yale School of Medicine) with over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I see private-pay clients across CT and NY (via telehealth and in person). My clients are high-achieving professionals navigating life transitions, career changes, relationship challenges, and questions of identity. I work effectively with a range of clients but also provide culturally attuned therapy for Asian/ Asian American clients and the LGBTQ community, assuring affirming care that speaks to the particular stress of living and working between cultures.
I consider it a great honor to bear compassionate witness to my clients’ stories - to help them make meaning of their experiences in a way that brings healing and restoration. I incorporate parts work, which helps clients understand their inner landscape by identifying, understanding, and unburdening different “parts” of themselves.
I also utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based therapy designed to help the brain process traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge so they no longer cause severe distress. This changes how memories are stored in the brain.
I consider it a great honor to bear compassionate witness to my clients’ stories - to help them make meaning of their experiences in a way that brings healing and restoration. I incorporate parts work, which helps clients understand their inner landscape by identifying, understanding, and unburdening different “parts” of themselves.
I also utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based therapy designed to help the brain process traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge so they no longer cause severe distress. This changes how memories are stored in the brain.
My aim as a mental health counselor is to create an empathetic and curiosity-driven environment for clients to pursue and explore growth, well-being, and authenticity. The foundations of my practice are rooted in being queer-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, and trauma-informed. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that works towards clients’ goals by examining emotions, unconscious beliefs, the mind-body connection, and relational patterns.
My aim as a mental health counselor is to create an empathetic and curiosity-driven environment for clients to pursue and explore growth, well-being, and authenticity. The foundations of my practice are rooted in being queer-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, and trauma-informed. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that works towards clients’ goals by examining emotions, unconscious beliefs, the mind-body connection, and relational patterns.
Life can feel like a never-ending plot twist. You’re doing your best, but past experiences, painful relationships, or daily stress can make moving forward hard. If you’ve ever thought, “Why can’t I just shake this off?”—you’re not alone. Healing isn’t about “getting over it” but finding a way through with support and the right tools. I offer a safe, judgment-free space for neurodivergent individuals, those struggling with emotions, trauma or carrying relational, faith-based, or cultural wounds. Let’s work together to help you feel at home in yourself.
Life can feel like a never-ending plot twist. You’re doing your best, but past experiences, painful relationships, or daily stress can make moving forward hard. If you’ve ever thought, “Why can’t I just shake this off?”—you’re not alone. Healing isn’t about “getting over it” but finding a way through with support and the right tools. I offer a safe, judgment-free space for neurodivergent individuals, those struggling with emotions, trauma or carrying relational, faith-based, or cultural wounds. Let’s work together to help you feel at home in yourself.
My mission as a therapist is to build an authentic, trusting relationship where you feel safe to explore who you are and what you need. Feeling secure, heard, and accepted is the foundation for working through the struggles that may be holding you back. I work with adults navigating adjustment, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and depression. Rather than viewing you as your symptoms, I tailor my approach to your unique needs, using techniques like CBT and psychodynamic therapy to support lasting change and help you show up as your full, authentic self.
My mission as a therapist is to build an authentic, trusting relationship where you feel safe to explore who you are and what you need. Feeling secure, heard, and accepted is the foundation for working through the struggles that may be holding you back. I work with adults navigating adjustment, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and depression. Rather than viewing you as your symptoms, I tailor my approach to your unique needs, using techniques like CBT and psychodynamic therapy to support lasting change and help you show up as your full, authentic self.
Life isn’t always easy - sometimes it can get you down and leave you in a space that is unfamiliar, or even scary. But life can also be brilliant, and I think the way to reach that point is to explore yourself and who you are. I aim to work with clients who are ready to take that step into living the lives that they want to; who are ready to face challenges that others, or even themselves, said they couldn’t get through. Therapy is about collaboration and I work from a person-centered approach, meaning, you set the tone and I'm here to support and offer guidance that align with you, your needs, and your goals.
Life isn’t always easy - sometimes it can get you down and leave you in a space that is unfamiliar, or even scary. But life can also be brilliant, and I think the way to reach that point is to explore yourself and who you are. I aim to work with clients who are ready to take that step into living the lives that they want to; who are ready to face challenges that others, or even themselves, said they couldn’t get through. Therapy is about collaboration and I work from a person-centered approach, meaning, you set the tone and I'm here to support and offer guidance that align with you, your needs, and your goals.
I work best with adolescents, young adults, and adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or urges to self-harm, and are looking for new ways to cope. Many of my clients are thoughtful, creative, and self-aware, but often feel stuck in old patterns that are hard to break. They have tried to push through on their own and are now ready for support that feels engaging, practical, and personalized.
I work best with adolescents, young adults, and adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or urges to self-harm, and are looking for new ways to cope. Many of my clients are thoughtful, creative, and self-aware, but often feel stuck in old patterns that are hard to break. They have tried to push through on their own and are now ready for support that feels engaging, practical, and personalized.
Welcome! Therapy is a place where we are allowed to extend grace to ourselves. My hope is that through our work together, we can build an environment where you feel ready to connect with all parts of yourself. My clients are thoughtful, kind, and have deep compassion for others. However, they find it hard to show up for themselves in the same way. Most clients come to therapy aware that something feels off and are starting to recognize that they may not be able to function using the same strategies they have for years. They are noticing signs of anxiety, depression, relational distress, and are having trouble connecting.
Welcome! Therapy is a place where we are allowed to extend grace to ourselves. My hope is that through our work together, we can build an environment where you feel ready to connect with all parts of yourself. My clients are thoughtful, kind, and have deep compassion for others. However, they find it hard to show up for themselves in the same way. Most clients come to therapy aware that something feels off and are starting to recognize that they may not be able to function using the same strategies they have for years. They are noticing signs of anxiety, depression, relational distress, and are having trouble connecting.
I believe that every individual has the ability to overcome and conquer obstacles placed in their path. My creative client-centered and strengths-based approach allows me to tap in to my clients' Hidden Abilities. I work with young adults, families, and professionals who struggle with high functioning autism, as well as those that believe that they are on the spectrum but have never been formally diagnosed. I also work with loved ones who would like to better support their spouse, child, or friend. Together, we will take positive steps forward to better understand and address everyday obstacles that you or your child face.
I believe that every individual has the ability to overcome and conquer obstacles placed in their path. My creative client-centered and strengths-based approach allows me to tap in to my clients' Hidden Abilities. I work with young adults, families, and professionals who struggle with high functioning autism, as well as those that believe that they are on the spectrum but have never been formally diagnosed. I also work with loved ones who would like to better support their spouse, child, or friend. Together, we will take positive steps forward to better understand and address everyday obstacles that you or your child face.
Compassionate Therapy for Loneliness, Anxiety, Depression, and Low Self-Esteem. Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or low self-worth? Do major life changes or relationship struggles leave you questioning your direction or sense of self? I help adults move through emotional pain, self-doubt, and isolation toward greater confidence, clarity, and connection. As a warm, grounded therapist, I specialize in low self-esteem, relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, and existential concerns. Together, we’ll work to deepen self-understanding, make meaning, and reconnect you with what matters
Compassionate Therapy for Loneliness, Anxiety, Depression, and Low Self-Esteem. Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or low self-worth? Do major life changes or relationship struggles leave you questioning your direction or sense of self? I help adults move through emotional pain, self-doubt, and isolation toward greater confidence, clarity, and connection. As a warm, grounded therapist, I specialize in low self-esteem, relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, and existential concerns. Together, we’ll work to deepen self-understanding, make meaning, and reconnect you with what matters
Dr. Michael Costa is passionate about providing effective, evidence-based therapyfor children/adolescents, young adults, and parents. He is also Clinical Assistant Professor at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. Dr. Costa has expertise in the the treatment of anxiety/OCD and behavioral difficulties/emotion dysregulation in children. He has gained extensive experience providing cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs), such as exposure and response prevention (E/RP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (Child DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and behavioral parent training (BPT).
Dr. Michael Costa is passionate about providing effective, evidence-based therapyfor children/adolescents, young adults, and parents. He is also Clinical Assistant Professor at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. Dr. Costa has expertise in the the treatment of anxiety/OCD and behavioral difficulties/emotion dysregulation in children. He has gained extensive experience providing cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs), such as exposure and response prevention (E/RP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (Child DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and behavioral parent training (BPT).
Jeff Shames
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
Not accepting new clients
Beginning therapy is a meaningful step toward prioritizing yourself and improving self-care amidst life’s challenges. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship can be a foundation for healing and growth, helping you achieve both personal and therapeutic goals. Together, we will explore the concerns that bring you here—whether it’s anxiety, depression, feelings of being unfulfilled or different—and uncover the paths that lead to meaningful change.
I support clients through grief and loss, not only in mourning a loved one but in navigating the transitions and changes that life presents.
Beginning therapy is a meaningful step toward prioritizing yourself and improving self-care amidst life’s challenges. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship can be a foundation for healing and growth, helping you achieve both personal and therapeutic goals. Together, we will explore the concerns that bring you here—whether it’s anxiety, depression, feelings of being unfulfilled or different—and uncover the paths that lead to meaningful change.
I support clients through grief and loss, not only in mourning a loved one but in navigating the transitions and changes that life presents.
Do you struggle to understand out what's wrong in your relationships, or why you can't seem to find a partner? Trying to figure out why you can't find the job you want, or find the motivation to look? Wondering why you're not happier, why things aren't working out the way you thought and hoped they would? And why you're so frustrated, angry, sad, anxious, confused and just plain scared too much of the time. Email me, or call, and we can look for the answers together.
Do you struggle to understand out what's wrong in your relationships, or why you can't seem to find a partner? Trying to figure out why you can't find the job you want, or find the motivation to look? Wondering why you're not happier, why things aren't working out the way you thought and hoped they would? And why you're so frustrated, angry, sad, anxious, confused and just plain scared too much of the time. Email me, or call, and we can look for the answers together.
See more therapy options for New York
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in New York, NY
3,000+
Average cost per session
$197
Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:
| 94% | Anxiety |
| 94% | Social Anxiety |
| 94% | Health Anxiety |
| 94% | Driving Anxiety |
| 87% | Depression |
| 83% | Relationship Issues |
| 80% | Relationship Anxiety |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 86% | Aetna |
| 66% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 56% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients
| 55% | In Person and Online | |
| 45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 78% | Female | |
| 20% | Male | |
| 2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in New York?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.


