What are your credentials?
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I hold an MA and EdM in Counseling and Clinical Psychology from Columbia University. I have advanced training in creativity coaching and though my background is in clinical and counseling psychology for the general population, I utilize some aspects of the creativity coaching training during the counseling sessions with creative individuals. Find out more about my background here. In addition, I am currently receiving training in modern psychoanalysis - effective interventions in psychoanalysis with modern psychoanalyst Mark Sehl.
Do you only see artists?
No. Since 2009, I have been working with clients on general mental health issues. That is, psychiatric diagnoses, emotional and coping difficulties unrelated to the "artist's life". While I still maintain practice locations for the general population, I could not brush off some early observations alerting me to the fact that artists, creative individuals and performers would benefit from counselors specializing in issues such as performance anxiety, the demands of the entertainment industry, the way mood disorders affect creativity and more.
Do I need therapy?
If you feel that you are doubting your abilities and self-worth, if you are facing challenging situations and uncomfortable changes, if you are feeling "stuck", confused and uncertain as to how to move on from past experiences or how to manage worries about the future, therapy would be beneficial. Let us work together in identifying and accepting your true self. Let us work towards embracing every day in a meaningful way.
Why focus on artists and creative individuals?
One does not need to be an artist in order to have mental health concerns, nor do mental health concerns need to be present in artists.
However, for artists who DO experience emotional and/or interpersonal difficulties it is important to have a very good understanding of the way in which creativity works, how artists express themselves and what psychological purpose art may serve, unique stressors associated with creative world and the entertainment industry.
To find out more about this topic, take a look at the book I wrote on the topic called Counseling for Artists, Performers, and Other Creative Individuals: A Guide for Clinicians.
However, for artists who DO experience emotional and/or interpersonal difficulties it is important to have a very good understanding of the way in which creativity works, how artists express themselves and what psychological purpose art may serve, unique stressors associated with creative world and the entertainment industry.
To find out more about this topic, take a look at the book I wrote on the topic called Counseling for Artists, Performers, and Other Creative Individuals: A Guide for Clinicians.
What are some examples of cases you see?
Here are some examples illustrating cases which may benefit from creativity and performance counseling:
-A stand-up comedian trying to manage his depression and the way it affects his motivation to make others laugh
-A singer who has decided to remain solely a recording artist due to her fear of performing on stage
-A writer who gets distracted easily and cannot begin her novel resulting in feelings of pressure, anxiety and guilt
-An actor who doubts himself every time he gets rejected for a part and only gets motivated when called back
-An instructor or lecturer who knows the material but "freezes" and "gets stuck" when in a large classroom or lecture hall
-A visual artist who has lost motivation to create art
-A dancer whose inability to perform due to an injury has caused stress
If any of these stories are similar to yours then you might be an appropriate candidate to work with me on your concerns. Contact me to find out more.
-A stand-up comedian trying to manage his depression and the way it affects his motivation to make others laugh
-A singer who has decided to remain solely a recording artist due to her fear of performing on stage
-A writer who gets distracted easily and cannot begin her novel resulting in feelings of pressure, anxiety and guilt
-An actor who doubts himself every time he gets rejected for a part and only gets motivated when called back
-An instructor or lecturer who knows the material but "freezes" and "gets stuck" when in a large classroom or lecture hall
-A visual artist who has lost motivation to create art
-A dancer whose inability to perform due to an injury has caused stress
If any of these stories are similar to yours then you might be an appropriate candidate to work with me on your concerns. Contact me to find out more.
What should i expect from the first session with you?
When we meet for the first time, we will focus on getting an idea of the presenting concern. What obstacles you are facing, where you feel stuck, what has worked so far, what you want to achieve and what keeps you from maximizing your potential. In addition, we will get some background information regarding family, educational, work and health history and try to get an understanding of your unique strengths, interests and environmental circumstances. We will develop a "treatment plan" that will include specific steps to help you bring about the changes you wish to see. You will be asked to sign a psychotherapy agreement consent form and, if your insurance will be paying for services, an insurance authorization form.
Are you an artist?
Yes. I have years of performing experience as a dancer and a singer. I am a songwriter, a studio recording artist and collaborate with other musicians mostly in rock, alternative and electronic genres. I am currently pursuing a BA in music composition.
Do you offer Remote sessions?
Absolutely!
What about FEES?
We meet for 45 minute sessions and the cost is $130. I work on a sliding scale with clients who are facing financial difficulties. I also accept some health insurances. Contact me to let me know about your circumstances.
