Archives for category: Therapists

Lilly Pavlinovic, Ph.D.

February 2, 2012 //

Areas of Expertise

“I am a licensed psychologist who incorporates interventions from other theoretical orientations to provide unique treatment for each patient. I work with a wide range of clients, including students, young professionals, and artists. I have accumulated a great deal of experience working with individuals who are struggling with low self-esteem, loneliness, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal problems. My goal is to help my patients enhance various aspects of their lives, so they can feel more confident about themselves, improve their interpersonal relationships, and realize their creative potentials. I have specialized in trauma-focused treatment in individual and group settings. I currently lead a trauma group for victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence. My other specialties include working with people of color, LGBT, and new immigrants who are struggling with issues of internalized prejudices, injuries and shame. I have also specialized in working with students who are struggling with various adjustment issues and often lack necessary support.”

Approach to Therapy

“I am a psychodynamically trained psychologist trained psychologist who incorporates techniques and concepts from other theoretical approaches, utilizing interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness techniques to provide individualized treatment. My approach to psychotherapy is collaborative and active, as my patient and I try to negotiate together patient’s needs and goals, and find the most effective ways to achieve them. I create a safe therapeutic space in which my patients can explore their relational patterns and create a meaningful narrative of their lives. Within this framework, I aspire to build a therapeutic relationship, in which my patients feel authentic, validated, and understood. I listen carefully the ways my patients understand their social contexts and how this understanding has shaped their internal sense of who they are.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“I have worked for many years at an outpatient clinics in the Village with patients diverse in respect to race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, age, and socio-economic status. This unique experience gave me a better understanding of my patients’ particular struggles and has shaped my personal and professional development. Providing reduced fee therapy for people without insurance allows me to stay ‘tuned’ with New York’s diverse community.”

Professional License

Psychologist 019288

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Ellen Varady, LCSW-R, CASAC

December 31, 2011 //

Areas of Expertise

“I have worked for more than 25 years with individuals in all phases of recovery from substance and alcohol abuse and dependency. I currently see clients in both individual treatment and my Early Recovery Group. Many of these clients have co-occurring mental health diagnoses. I aim to work closely with the Psychiatrist and referring therapist as it is extremely important for the welfare of the client. I am constantly studying and updating my practice which is informed by my longtime study of martial arts, visual arts, and more recently hypnotherapy. I am comfortable being in the room with a client’s anxiety and depression, however extreme, while working to lift their debilitating symptoms. I am interested in working with people who are in crisis and transition, whether in their career, relationship or physical health.”

Approach to Therapy

“My office is a safe and nonjudgmental environment where we will work. I believe that change is desirable. To this end I put into practice theory from Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy. I believe that talking through problems is important but equally important to recovery is taking action.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“I am extremely grateful to have received competent and caring psychotherapy over the years from individuals who held socially-responsible values and were willing to reduce their fees.”

Professional License

Social Worker R052367-1

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Ilana Simons, Ph.D.

September 26, 2011 //

Areas of Expertise

“I specialize in work with artists, students, and others dealing with the anxiety of negotiating their careers and relationships. I have had a strong connection to the arts, having taught Writing at New York universities for 15 years, and as a portrait painter and writer. I have extensive experience working with writers, actors, and visual artists. I published A Life of One’s Own: A Guide to Better Living through the Work and Wisdom of Virginia Woolf (Penguin, 2007). Working from a client-centered perspective, I help clients actively participate in forming the best solutions to their current problems.”

Approach to Therapy

“I work from a client-centered perspective, which includes a trust that patients can actively participate in creating the best solutions to current problems. I work to meet my clients at their current position: to offer the help that’s most useful at the crossroads we’re in.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“Therapy preserves a space–for brainstorming, intimacy, and support–that seems increasingly threatened in our world today. I love my job because my clients and I get to preserve it. I am committed to working not just with people who can pay high fees, but with people facing financial distress, a struggle that’s the fastest growing monster in our modern world.”

Professional License

Psychologist 019255

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Louise Lasson, LCSW, CASAC

September 10, 2011 //

Areas of Expertise

“Repeating negative patterns, such as continuing to find yourself in unfulfilling relationships, or always feeling guilty; trauma, such as that resulting from childhood abuse or neglect; addiction/substance misuse; anger issues; depression; anxiety.”

Approach to Therapy

“I believe that we all create protective mechanisms to get through childhood. Often, we unconsciously continue to employ these mechanisms as adults and not only are they no longer helpful, they can actually be what’s getting in the way of achieving healthy relationships and thriving at work. Therefore, I spend time connecting past with present, helping you become more accepting and compassionate towards yourself, and helping the traumatized parts of yourself catch up to the here and now. This results in more clarity and increased ability to connect with and trust your instincts, which naturally promotes healing.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“I currently work in community mental health clinics providing psychotherapy to low- or no-income individuals, as I have throughout my career (presently part-time). I am strongly committed to the idea that ALL people can be helped by psychotherapy and deserve to be welcomed with respect and mutuality.”

Professional License

Social Worker 73 036957

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Categories Therapists

Elaine Janssen, LCSW

July 18, 2011 //

Areas of Expertise

“Anxiety, depression, relationship problems, coping with illness (acute and chronic), adjustment to life changes are some of the areas in which I work well. I have a background in the performing arts which gives me an understanding of the unique issues related to performers. In addition to my Master’s degree in social work, (1977) I hold a second Master’s degree in acupuncture (1991) and have an allopathic medical background in medical technology (1962).”

Approach to Therapy

“My therapeutic approach is a collaborative one, I believe in being interactive and encourage a dialogue while working together in a professional, yet comfortable, setting. Although psychodynamically trained, I employ an eclectic approach based upon the distinct needs of the individual.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“My main interest in TherapySafetyNet.org is based upon my desire to partner with a network that shares my values. I devote a percentage of my practice to lower fee clients because I feel that therapy should be available to everyone and should not be totally based upon ability to pay.”

Professional License

Social Worker R024679-1

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Rebecca Cohen, Ph.D.

June 24, 2011 //

Areas of Expertise

“Each of us is unique. The basis of character and personality is heavily influenced by the interplay of unique past, present, and future experiences and expectations on the individual level. This means that treating the individual requires a dynamic approach as there is no single technique to address the unique combination of issues that an individual confronts. By combining various techniques within the psychodynamic framework, I guide my patients through the process of not only understanding the concerns and issues that they face on a day to day basis, but through the generalized process of gaining a better understanding of self. As part of this process, those obstacles are explored that may hinder personal development and growth. Ultimately, it is through an open mind, willingness to explore, and a sense of trust that positive change will occur. I am committed to making sure that the right conditions exist for the patient to see the benefits of this process.”

Professional License

Psychologist 018078

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Robyn Lerner, LCSW

June 20, 2011 //

Areas of Expertise

“I have been particularly successful in working with individuals in academia (both students and faculty) and those in creative fields. Most patients enter my office with symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors (including substance use), interpersonal difficulties, or simply to derive greater satisfaction from their lives. My intensive three year training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy has helped me to forge long term relationships with my patients as a means to achieving and sustaining therapeutic gains. My clients represent a wide range of cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations and I work with those age 18 and older as individuals and couples.”

Approach to Therapy

“I provide a comfortable space in which to explore both the long-standing and newly developed difficulties you are experiencing. I bring to my work a strong appreciation for both the ordinary and extraordinary struggles encountered across the life cycle.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“I believe that everyone should have access to high quality mental health care regardless of their employment or financial status. As such, I devote a portion of my practice to working with individuals who find themselves with reduced means. It is often this subset of people who are most motivated for and in need of treatment.”

Professional License

Social Worker 077868 -1

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Andrea Johnson, LCSW

August 11, 2010 //

Areas of Expertise

“My areas of expertise include working with individuals diagnosed with Major Depression, PTSD and other Anxiety disorders. I have 8 years of experience working with adults who have a history of childhood sexual and physical abuse, domestic violence, and other traumas.”

Approach to Therapy

“One of the important aspects to therapy in my approach is to establish a safe, supportive environment in order to build upon an ongoing therapeutic relationship. I have an eclectic approach to therapy, which includes psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral techniques.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“I believe that therapy should be available to all people regardless of their socio-economic background. Affordable therapy is needed now more than ever during these precarious times. TherapySafetyNet.org provides an invaluable service for those seeking low-cost treatment.”

Professional License

Social Worker 073896 -1

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Linda McEvatt, LCSW

May 23, 2010 //

Areas of Expertise

“Transitions is a common theme running through my work with clients. If you are struggling with worklife, personal relationships or sexual identification, I can help you. If you suffer with anxiety or depression, I can help you. If you think you might have issues with addiction, I can help you. If you experience the confusion of being an expat or an ATCK, I can help you.”

Approach to Therapy

“My approach is driven by my clients’ needs. I can work with patients in a very supportive yet directive manner utilizing behavioral change techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Alternatively, I work well with patients who are interested in engaging in much deeper psychoanalytic psychotherapy. For the most part, with all my clients/patients, it is a bit of both!”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“In my experience, those without insurance coverage who are paying for therapy out-of-pocket are often the most motivated patients I work with. They typically place a high value on the benefits of therapy and are committed to the process. To witness these patients flourish to the point where they start earning (as opposed to under-earning) or gain paid and satisfying employment with insurance benefits is truly rewarding.”

Professional License

Social Worker 077568

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Arlene Dolinko, LCSW

June 12, 2009 //

Areas of Expertise

“I work with all of the areas listed below; however, I have a special interest in emotional issues which can arise around post-bariatric surgery, i.e., continued food obsession, body image adjustment.”

Approach to Therapy

“I believe in providing caring, compassionate, interactive therapy in a safe environment so that together, we can overcome obstacles and promote growth, change, and healing.”

Professional License

Social Worker R047173

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

updated 01/27/12
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Cheryl Cornelius, Ph.D.

May 8, 2009 //

Areas of Expertise

“My practice in recent years has been largely treating depression, anxiety and dissociative challenges (which includes victims of childhood and/or adult trauma, family alcoholism/addictions,etc); adult individuals, couples, family dyads (parent-child, siblings). For many years I worked in skilled nursing facilities with disabled adults in rehab, and with elders in nursing care–a very neglected group of human beings.”

Approach to Therapy

“Anything that works: from analyzing dreams to career coaching. The day a client no longer needs sessions, is the day I have reached my goal.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“For what were we trained all those years?? Yes we have to make a living, provide for our families, but there has to be a portal for caring for our community as our careers ripen ( I speak for myself at 61 years of age)—we all did plenty of free and nearly free service during our training years–and that was good–in fact some of the best work I have ever done in terms of clinical creativity/insight–but now I believe I have something more,or different, to offer, as the inevitability of life passage gives me knowledge, maybe even some wisdom???”

Professional License

Psychologist 010314

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

updated 01/27/12
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Evelyn Shaw, LMSW

January 15, 2008 //

Areas of Expertise

“A skilled, interactive therapist, I specialize in dynamic intervention with individuals and couples in their 30s and 40s who are facing both important internal and milestone life transitions. I also work with those who feel unable to make important changes because of obstacles like anxiety, frustration and depression. The key to deep fulfillment is a high level of self awareness. The development of this essential internal connectedness is a rich and intensely personal journey, for which I offer myself as an experienced, effective and compassionate guide. I maintain a diverse practice, serving clients of various racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. I work with members of the lesbian and gay community, with the disabled and with those from a wide array of professional backgrounds including lawyers, business executives, teachers and people in the arts.”

Approach to Therapy

“My approach is highly individualized. I utilize psychodynamic, relational, systems and cognitive interventions as well as coaching and supportive counseling.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“A key component of my professional mission is a deep commitment to social and economic justice. In my practice, the definition of growth has always included my ability to serve a more and more economically diverse population. I have served many clients who come to my office wondering whether they can afford me. The growth of my practice allows me to afford them.”

Professional License

Social Worker 042751-1

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Janis S. McAdams, Psy.D.

October 7, 2007 //

Areas of Expertise

“Have you wondered about the difficulties you have maintaining relationships and friendships? Does your worry about what others will think make it difficult for you to be your most creative, productive self? Have you become depressed and hopeless as you feel that you are not fulfilling your potential? I would like to help you become less anxious, more comfortable with yourself and happier in your relationships. In a supportive atmosphere of curiosity and acceptance, I will work with you to explore how your perceptions and expectations of yourself and important other people came into being and understanding how these influence your life today, getting in the way of your finding satisfaction and happiness. We will work together to modify the repeating patterns of emotional reaction and action that come from these patterns of thinking, feeling and acting. I have over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist in a wide variety of clinical settings, including private practice. My approach to therapy is strongly based in psychoanalytic theory and technique, however, I draw on other psychological understandings and methods of psychotherapy to help you in the way that is best suited to the problems you bring for help and your own style of working.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“I firmly believe that each person deserves the opportunity to benefit from psychotherapy. Having myself been the recipient of psychotherapy at reduced fees when I was I need, I feel it is important to ‘give back’ to society and the field as I am able.”

Professional License

Psychologist 011576

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Donna Seroff, LCSW

September 22, 2007 //

Areas of Expertise

“My approach is warm and relaxed. I utilize multiple theories depending on what will best suit the client’s need. I believe a client must feel they are safe and supported in order to begin making changes and moving forward. It is important that a client feel heard, understood and not judged.”

Approach to Therapy

“I believe strongly that each human being has the right to the availability of professional, high quality mental health care. I understand that regardless of the reasons, many people fall through the cracks where mental health coverage is concerned and live with issues that could be resolved if the proper care were available to them. As a mental health professional I consider it my responsibility to offer my services to all people, not only those fortunate enough to have insurance or to those able to pay the customary New York City rates for psychotherapy.”

Professional License

Social Worker 075194

Getting Started

If you are uninsured and would like to request a referral for reduced fee psychotherapy through TherapySafetyNet, click here.

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Geoffrey Steinberg, Psy.D.

September 21, 2007 //

Areas of Expertise

“I work well with people who have been traumatized and/or marginalized on multiple levels, for example by the effects of emotional abuse in the family of origin and then by way of societal homophobia.”

Approach to Therapy

“I specialize in therapy that focuses on helping you understand how your concerns developed and increasing your awareness of ways you may unknowingly repeat unhealthy patterns that you learned early in life. Our work may allow you greater freedom from your past, and thus greater choice in how you live today. While I give you the space you need to reflect on your experiences, I also take an active part in helping you examine and focus on understanding your experiences, past and present. I may be able to help you deepen your understanding, not only on an intellectual basis, but also by getting in touch with emotional and unconscious aspects of your experiences.”

Interest in TherapySafetyNet

“Founding Member”

Professional License

Psychologist 016942

Getting Started

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