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  • Joanna Barsky, LCSW

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    Joanna Barsky, LCSW

    About Me

    Originally from the Midwest, I settled in New York City after graduating from Barnard College. A career spanning news, politics, and public relations was followed by raising my daughter. I enrolled at Fordham University to obtain my master’s in social work, participated in their Palliative Care Fellowship, and was able to embark on my long-held desire to help others. I had the good fortune to practice at a large community mental health clinic in Westchester where I served a diverse range of clients and needs.

    With time and work, we all end up where we are meant to be, even if the destination surprises us. From experience, I know the journey can be hard and can take us to places we are not yet prepared for. Together, we will find your path as we work towards your destination.  I believe that some people benefit from short-term therapy—there is a boulder on the path, and we need to move it. Others may require lengthier support—a fog has set in, and one cannot see the path ahead. I will be your guide you on the path and am honored every time a person commits to this arduous journey with me.

    My Approach

    I believe just like every person is unique so their treatment must be as well. I use a psychodynamic approach to help us understand the conflicts in your life and the changes you want to make. We will collaborate to draw from treatment modalities that speak to you and help us to meet your treatment goals. 

    Modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure Therapy, Trauma Systems Therapy (TST), Play Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).

    My Specialties

    My practice spans helping people of all ages with depression and anxiety, ADHD, non-suicidal self-injury, grief and bereavement, complex personality disorders, trauma and LGBTQIA+ folks. When appropriate, and especially with younger children, I encourage family engagement to help people understand and work with the family system they are in. I often connect well with people who are “treatment-resistant,” especially teens who have had difficulty finding a therapist who they feel can understand them.

    My Self Care

    Despite my hiking metaphor above, I am not a hiker. But you will find me walking my dog and cats through my neighborhood often. I enjoy listening to the birds while reading the newspaper and find visiting museums and bookstores to be restorative.

    Banner Photo by Michael Block