Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy NYC
Serving NYC & NY State
“Until You Make the Unconscious Conscious, It Will Direct Your Life, and You Will Call It Fate.” —Carl Jung
Exploring The Unconscious To Live More Consciously
Psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy offers important insight into what you can’t always access.
Current science estimates that about 95 percent of our brain activity is unconscious, meaning that most of our behaviors, decisions, actions, conflicts, and emotions are beyond conscious awareness. The unconscious is responsible for much of our misery, unhappiness, anxiety, and depression. It is possible to have greater access to the unconscious in the service of leading a more conscious life. I offer a psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy approach to help clients understand themselves and their relationships, as well as the unconscious internal conflicts that impede them from achieving their goals and having a more satisfying life. Through this lens, we can identify and uncover the unconscious conflicts that drive us to repeat and engage in behaviors and dynamics that are an unconscious attempt to master the past but often lead to self-destructive and self-defeating behaviors. By paying close attention to and working through unconscious material, clients gain insight into current difficulties and patterns, which frees them to make important changes in their lives. This leads to lasting changes in rigid defense mechanisms, symptom reduction, and increased self-esteem and mastery. These life-enhancing changes gained in psychodynamic psychotherapy keep the conscious you in the driver’s seat more often.
“The more intensively the family has stamped its character upon the child, the more it will tend to feel and see its earlier miniature world again in the bigger world of adult life. Naturally, this is not a conscious, intellectual process.” —Carl Jung
This is not a short-term therapy solution, but rather an unfolding of experiences revealed in the context of the relationship between psychotherapist and patient. Because psychoanalytic psychotherapy also emphasizes how past experiences shape our present experience, the therapeutic process involves the exploration of transference (feelings that the patient has toward another person which they unconsciously redirect toward the therapist) to explore unresolved issues. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is typically used in higher-functioning patients (e.g. patients not actively suicidal, without serious substance abuse problems, and without acute instability in their lives).
More Information About Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is rooted in traditional Freudian analysis and was developed as a less time-intensive, modernized version of psychoanalysis. Similar to psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy aims to help people gain self-awareness and insight into their lives and difficulties. Research has supported the use of psychodynamic psychotherapy for the treatment of major depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, and anxiety disorders. In session, the therapist seeks to learn about your inner life, both conscious and unconscious, paying attention to patterns that interfere with your functioning and well-being. Attention to early childhood experiences, emotions, fears, dreams, and fantasies are all important aspects of treatment. Psychodynamic psychotherapy aims to identify and heal the root cause of distress by exploring repressed or unconscious needs, urges, and desires.
What Can You Expect In Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Sessions?
Unlike psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy does not utilize the typical analyst couch, the therapist and patient are seated and face one another. You are encouraged to speak freely sharing whatever comes to mind as the therapist listens. A psychodynamic therapist works with you to recognize the unconscious behavioral patterns, destructive patterns, and rigid beliefs that may be inhibiting your growth and potential. Much of these patterns originate in childhood which is often the focus of sessions. A psychoanalytic psychotherapist uses his/her analytic skills to understand how early experiences, developmental trauma(s), conflicts, and behavior patterns might get in the way of your current life satisfaction.
What Are Some Techniques Used In Psychodynamic Psychotherapy?
Free Association
During free association, the therapist encourages the patient to speak freely about whatever may come to mind. The therapist remains supportive and curious, creating a safe environment for the patient to speak freely and openly about whatever comes to mind. Conflicts and areas ripe for exploration emerge during sessions as the patient moves from one topic to the next. The therapist can uncover unconscious feelings and beliefs that free the patient to complete psychological growth.
Defense Mechanisms
There are many defense mechanisms, and some are considered more high-level, or healthier, than others. Psychodynamic psychotherapy seeks to make conscious, and thereby lessen the use of less adaptive defenses while bolstering higher-level that are supportive. Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies used to protect an individual from unacceptable thoughts and feelings that have led to psychological distress and symptoms. Defense mechanisms are viewed as adaptive and normal, but when used rigidly, or frequently, can result in unhealthy life choices. One example of a common defense mechanism is projection. This occurs when an individual attributes unwanted feelings, thoughts, or motives to another person. For example, if you dislike someone, but some part of you finds this unacceptable, you might unconsciously solve the problem by believing that he/she hates you. Another example of a defense mechanism is denial. When overwhelmed by a problem or experience, the individual may unconsciously respond by refusing to see the problem, thus denial. Denial is very common, but when it’s unconsciously used in an extreme form, destructive mistakes may follow. One example is when a spouse is unable to see a partner’s infidelity. In psychodynamic therapy, your therapist will help you understand when you are using defense mechanisms to protect yourself and identify when they impair your choices and behavior. By bringing awareness to these unconscious behaviors and patterns, you are free to live consciously, not reflexively, making deliberate and meaningful choices in your life going forward.
About Psychoanalytic Therapy NYC
This practice provides a range of psychological & wellness services in NYC and throughout NY state. The goal is to individualize treatment to your unique physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual needs. I have experience working with a broad range of symptoms and approaches in psychotherapy, including but not limited to EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Holistic Mind-Body Medicine. Therapy begins with a therapeutic consultation, where you will gather a wealth of information about your difficulties. Many people feel better after the first session. The initial consultation also lays the groundwork for future treatment as we determine the best modalities to help you heal.
Psychoanalytic Therapist With Nearly 20 Years Of Experience
This practice offers supportive, compassionate, and comprehensive care, staying current on research related to mental health. My goal is to use my expertise and extensive training to get you back to living your life as quickly as possible.
Book An Appointment For Psychoanalytic Therapy NYC Today
Book an appointment directly or text 212-529-8292 to get started. Integrative Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan can help you with your healing journey guiding you towards optimal mental health.
Exquisitely-Tailored Therapy & Experienced Guidance
You are a unique human, and your therapy should reflect your need for Compassion, agency, change, responsiveness and empowerment. Our work together will include:
Increasing your energy and vitality
Improving and balancing your mood
Managing your stress and anxiety
Improving your motivation and focus
Managing your movement, nutrition and sleep needs
Reducing or eliminating unnecessary medications when desired
Healing Modalities Used In This NYC Therapy & Wellness Practice
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Psychodynamic psychotherapy, also known as Insight-oriented therapy, is based on the theory that by increasing awareness of our unconscious drives, conflicts and experiences, we can live less reflexively and more consciously, creating new life… MORE
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented type of talk therapy. It can help patients manage mental health concerns, such as anxiety, PTSD and depression. It focuses on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, thoughts… MORE
EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR Therapy uses bilateral stimulation to help people process… MORE
Internal Family Systems
Internal Family Systems is a powerfully transformative and evidence-based model of psychotherapy that focuses on our multiple inner parts that contain valuable information, and our core Self that knows how to heal and integrate for wellbeing… MORE
Somatic Experiencing
SE is a body-oriented therapeutic model that helps heal trauma and other stress disorders. It is a multi-disciplinary study of stress physiology, psychology, ethology, biology, neuroscience, indigenous healing practices, and medical biophysics… MORE
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
SFBT concentrates on finding solutions in the present and exploring one’s hope for the future in order to find a quick and practical resolution of one’s problems. This method takes the approach that you know what you need to do to improve your… MORE
About Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan
I’ve been in the holistic wellness & psychology field for nearly twenty years. As a licensed psychotherapist with a private psychotherapy practice in New York City, I blend what I’ve found to be the most effective practices in psychology, neurobiology, attachment, alternative medicine, nutrition, coaching, and mind-body medicine practices. I believe that lasting change and transformation is possible when given the right tools to thrive. I’ve received extensive training and certification in a range of innovative, effective, and evidence-based therapies to offer comprehensive care.
As a holistic psychotherapist, I believe it’s important to address the root cause of emotional and somatic suffering. As a trauma-trained therapist, I am influenced by humanist and existential philosophy, relational theory, attachment theory, psychoanalytic concepts, mindfulness, and somatic, mind, and body psychology. I have received extensive post-graduate training in EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Nutrition and Integrative Medicine For Mental Health, and more. In marriage and couple counseling, my work is influenced by the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
As neuroscience demonstrates, the brain can heal, and the body and mind are inextricably linked. My 20+ years of experience with mindfulness, yoga therapy, and meditation greatly influence my work as a mental health provider. A Holistic therapy model ensures that you thrive in the many aspects of your life—including your relationship with yourself and others. Together, we work with practices designed to create an environment that supports optimal physical and mental health well-being. Lasting change and transformation is possible when given the right tools to thrive.
Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan Therapy Modalities
Psychoanalytic, Relational & Interpersonal Psychotherapy
Attachment-Focused Couple Therapy (traditional, non-traditional, non-monogamy, alternative lifestyle couples), Sexual Counseling
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT Skills
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Advanced level EMDR Therapy, Parts Therapy, Integrated Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing
Positive Psychology, Positive Neuroplasticity Coaching
Transformational, Peak Performance& Wellness Coaching
Urban Zen Integrative Therapy, Reiki, Energy Medicine, Yoga Therapy
Nutrition & Integrative Medicine For Mental Health, Nutritional Amino Acid Protocols (using precursor amino acids, fatty acids, herbal medicine, supplement recommendations for mood, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, cravings, brain fog, PTSD, and more)
Clinical Hypnosis
Kimberly Seelbrede: Post Graduate Training & Certifications
New York University - Advanced CBT Certification, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Advanced Clinical Practice, Clinical Approaches to the Addictions, Clinical Practice with Adolescents
Somatic Experiencing® International (in progress)
Eating Disorders, Compulsions & Addictions (EDCAS) Certification
William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis & Psychology
EMDR Advanced Level EMDR Practitioner - Laurel Parnell PhD
Brainspotting - Lisa Schwarz, MEd
Positive Neuroplasticity Training Certification - Rick Hanson PhD
Nutrition and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health - Leslie Korn PhD
IFS Immersion: Integrating Internal Family Systems Across Clinical Applications - Frank Anderson, PhD
Dialectical Behavior Therapy - Behavior Tech Institute
Mindful Self-Compassion Training - Christopher K. Germer, PhD & Kristen Neff PhD
Executive Life Coaching - New York University
Institute for Life Coach Training
Urban Zen Integrative Therapy Training Program
Additional Professional Training: Gottman Institute for Couples, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnosis for Trauma & PTSD, Focusing Institute, Whole Body Focusing with Glenn Fleisch, Ph.D. EMDR & Trauma Treatment with Jennifer Sweeton, PsyD, MS, MA. Ongoing workshops: Ester Perel, Bessel van der Kolk, MD, Dan Siegel, MD, Peter Levine, Ph.D, Gabor Mate, MD, Richard Schwartz, PhD, Sue Johnson, IFS, Somatic Experiencing, Trauma-Focused Treatment, Yoga Therapy, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy
Clinical practice Expertise & Specialties
Depression (major, postpartum depression, SAD, bipolar disorder, atypical depression, dysthymia, situational, chronic sadness)
Anxiety (panic, generalized, phobias, social, PTSD), fear, worry, stress management, insomnia, work/life balance
Women’s hormonal health, perimenopause and menopause mental health assessment/coaching, chronic pain
Trauma resolution, obstacles, blocking beliefs, self-sabotage, problem patterns, and habits
Crisis counseling, life challenges, transitions, grief, loss and bereavement
Dysfunctional relationship dynamics, professional and personal relationships, communication difficulties, divorce, separation
Shadow work, energetic blocks, boundary work
Addictions, behavioral addictions, substance abuse, alcoholism and compulsions
Family of origin, codependency, family conflict resolution, submissiveness and recovery from family enmeshment, ACOA
Recovery and post-rehab support (step-down support, wellness planning, new habit maintenance, and self-care)
Celebrity mental health expertise and high-profile, VIP clients, therapy for entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, medical professionals
talk therapy not enough? Find lasting Healing & Transformation with EMDR
If traditional talk therapy has not yielded the desired healing results, it might be time to consider a different model of care. I’ve been trained in many effective therapies, but I find myself consistently returning to EMDR. EMDR Therapy changed my practice years ago because it works and it changes lives. It is the one treatment method that is consistently powerful and transformative for my patients, especially when other highly effective therapies such as IFS, CBT, and Somatic Experiencing are integrated into sessions. Therapy is highly individualized, and depending on your unique needs, chosen therapy modalities may include: EMDR, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, and Somatic Experiencing®. I completed EMDRIA-approved EMDR advanced Levels I & II training and supervision many years ago and I’ve used it in my New York City psychotherapy private practice consistently and with excellent results.
EMDR therapy is highly effective in addressing underlying beliefs, patterns, and blocks that can hinder progress in traditional therapy or life coaching. EMDR treatment can help transform mere survival into thriving, leading to a life free from disruptive symptoms. By reprocessing difficult or traumatic memories, EMDR can boost resilience and vitality in the nervous system. EMDR is not only for trauma; it is also valuable for enhancing performance in athletes, creatives, and work-related endeavors. During the pandemic, many of us discovered that EMDR can be effectively offered to many patients virtually. Virtual EMDR can be a powerful addition to your therapy journey, whether used in conjunction with your existing therapy or as a standalone solution. learn more about EMDR Therapy
Create An Hour Of Refuge And Focus On Your Emotional Wellbeing
Expert, experienced Online Therapy Serving NYC & NY State Residents
faqs about online therapy in nYC: how does Virtual therapy/video therapy work?
The technology for telemedicine has been available for decades, but the pandemic made virtual therapy a necessity. It's surprising how many people have benefitted from online virtual therapy. Like many therapists in NYC, I've been conducting virtual sessions for some time, so I'm comfortable working with technology. It's important to note that teletherapy isn't suitable for everyone seeking counseling, as many people prefer conducting psychotherapy sessions in person.
How does Online therapy work?
This holistic psychotherapy and wellness practice in New York City understands that many people have busy schedules and may find it difficult to commute to therapy sessions. That's why I offer virtual therapy and telephone therapy as modern options for counseling. This is especially convenient for individuals who work, travel, have young children with different schedules, are young adults, college students, or expats. After scheduling an online session, you will receive a secure session link from the HIPAA-compliant platform SimplePractice. You can access the virtual therapy office using your computer, iOS/Android phone, iPad, or any other tablet-enabled device. Most laptops have a built-in camera and microphone, making it easy to participate in the sessions. Creating an emotionally safe space in your home or office for virtual sessions is also important, and all you need is a strong internet connection.
What kind of therapy is offered virtually?
Online sessions are treated the same way as face-to-face sessions, using the same evidence-based therapy modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, somatic psychotherapy, life coaching, wellness coaching, and stress management. Remote EMDR has been found to be just as effective for trauma resolution and other concerns as in-person EMDR. However, not everyone or every situation should be treated remotely, so it’s important to contact potential therapists to determine if virtual therapy is appropriate for your situation. Research now demonstrates that therapy sessions conducted by teletherapy are just as effective as face-to-face therapy. Read the research.
Who can benefit from virtual therapy?
Anyone can access high-quality therapy in a private, confidential, and convenient manner. Seeking therapy with an experienced NYC psychotherapist can lead to healthier relationships, new perspectives, reaching goals, and building resilience. Therapy can provide support during stressful and challenging times, helping you feel less alone with your problems. Living in New York City comes with unique challenges, including a fast-paced lifestyle and high levels of stress. If you're experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, loss, substance use, or unresolved trauma PTSD, know that you're not alone. Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan offers evidence-based counseling and an integrative psychotherapy philosophy tailored to your unique needs. As a licensed psychotherapist in New York, I can see you whether you live in the NYC metro area or anywhere in New York State. There are various modern therapy options available, such as BetterHelp, TalkSpace, and the numerous licensed psychotherapists and psychologists on Psychology Today who provide high-quality therapy in the US and worldwide. Interested in receiving therapy in New York using your health insurance benefits? Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan is In-Network with BCBS & Aetna, and Out-of-Network with most health insurances. I have also been reimbursed by Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Emblem, Oxford, United, and many more for out-of-network mental health services. Most of my clients are compensated about 50-100% of my fees.
How can Integrative Psychotherapy & Wellness NYC enhance your life?
Gain support through a personal crisis, transition, loss, trauma, or challenging situation that causes personal or relational distress
Heal codependency and feel empowered, autonomous, safe, and secure in your life as self-esteem naturally increases
Find relief for sadness, depression, and chronic depression with interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR
Uncover unconscious conflicts, patterns and blocking beliefs that may be sabotaging your success and happiness
Address dissociation, body image, eating disorders, compulsions, addictions, substance use or abuse, and obsessions
Learn to identify important thoughts, feelings, emotions, motivations, and unconscious internal conflicts with insight-oriented therapy
Develop enhanced self-awareness as well as empathy and compassion for self and others with relational therapy
Break through blocks in intimacy, detach from unhealthy relationships, and break patterns of repetition in significant relationships
Learn to identify triggers that lead to anger, confusion, and relationship dysfunction in couple and relationship counseling
Develop effective, assertive communication skills to benefit personal and professional relationships
Learn more adaptive coping skills, self-care rituals, self-acceptance, and mindfulness to create a healthy work-life balance
Uncover patterns of crippling perfectionism that interfere with achievement, success, and personal happiness using EMDR
Process and heal painful feelings of loneliness, disappointment, sadness, loss, grief, guilt, shame, anger, envy and fear
Resolve trauma and abuse symptoms, develop healthier boundaries, and heal early attachment wounds with EMDR Therapy
Discover protocols using precursor amino acids, fatty acids, herbal medicine, supplements for mood, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, cravings, brain fog, PTSD
Identify hormone-related (peri-menopause, menopause) anxiety, depression, insomnia, brain fog, low energy, pain, migraines, fibromyalgia
Learn self-care, meditation, breathing techniques, energy medicine & somatic therapy practices to regulate your nervous system
Obtain consultations for referrals to psychopharmacologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other allied professionals