Meet Your Online Holistic Anxiety + Trauma Therapist:
Hi, I’m Desiree!
Brooklyn’s Trauma + Anxiety Specialist
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who was lucky enough to have been born, raised and educated in New York City. I’ve been in the mental health field for 14+ years, providing mental and emotional support for New Yorkers experiencing anxiety, trauma and chronic stress. Curious how I got here? Happy to share 😊
A therapist born in Brooklyn
I'm a true Brooklynite, born and raised in Bay Ridge like the two generations before me. My passion for mental health care was ignited through life experiences that led me to the fascinating world of neuroscience and holistic wellness.
How to become a trauma therapist in NYC
I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Brooklyn College and a Masters in Social Work from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. My education laid the foundation for a career in helping the voiceless feel heard while standing up to injustice.
Holistic anxiety + trauma therapy for adults in NY + NJ
Prior to launching my private practice in 2017, I had the privilege of working in various roles within esteemed NYC organizations. These experiences allowed me to collaborate with dedicated colleagues and support clients from diverse backgrounds, witnessing profound resilience and traumatic growth while healing in community.
The journey of a Brooklyn psychotherapist
I've served as a therapist, group facilitator, clinical supervisor, researcher, and program director in community mental health settings across New York and the tri-state area. Each role deepened my understanding and dedication for this work while making me acutely aware of the systems failing so many. Eager to find ethical detours around backwards policies and unmoving gatekeepers, I decided to take my act solo.
NYC Small Business Ownerempowering emerging adults
As a proud founder and NYC small business owner for over seven years, my mission is to make mental health accessible.
Take the first step in transforming your life with anxiety + trauma therapy!
Your mind + self-care need a redesign!
Schedule your free 15-minute discovery call to discuss how we imagine our work together going, giving you a chance to ask any questions you may have about how I can help. It's time to take the first step towards a brighter, more fulfilling life.
The mission of my practice is to support emerging adults (18 to 30-somethings), creatives, introverts, the queer community & anyone else ready to thrivein a world not quite designed for you!
What Brooklyn has to say about us:
Frequently asked questions about Virtual Anxiety Therapy for NY + NJ:
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I work with emerging adults 18+ who are looking for virtual mental health support while living in NY or NJ. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, depression, life transitions and chronic stress.
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During our 15-minute consultation, it's like speed-dating but for therapy. We'll chat about our compatibility and how I can be your mental health wingwoman. We'll discuss the services I can offer you based on your unique circumstances and location. You can ask me any burning questions you have about my services, training, and overall vibe. Then, we'll set our first date, and you'll receive some introductory paperwork to speed things up in the therapy room. And if, by chance, I feel you'd hit it off better with another clinician, I'm the ultimate matchmaker.
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Our first virtual session is like the opening scene of a movie - it sets the stage for the journey ahead. We'll delve into topics we discussed in our consultation call, but don't worry, you're in control. If you're not ready to spill all your secrets, no pressure. We'll focus on stabilization, trust-building, and selecting our first goals of therapy. Sometimes an hour just isn't enough, so we'll continue to unpack and practice new coping skills in follow-up sessions.
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At the start, we'll be seeing each other weekly. This helps us build a strong connection as we embark on your wellness journey. Once you've achieved your goals and are feeling like the star you are, we'll discuss reducing the frequency of our sessions. For our seasoned clients, meetings can be dialed back to every other week. And when it's time to move on from therapy, we'll meet for monthly check-ins. You can always return to therapy as life throws new challenges your way.
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I'm not currently in cahoots with any insurance plans, but I've got your back. I provide discreet documentation for out-of-network reimbursement. Many insurance companies offer reimbursement for out-of-network providers, so you can get a chunk of your therapy fees back, typically 60-80%.
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Payments are processed electronically via credit, debit, HSA, or FSA cards. We're all about saving time and keeping your data safe, so payments and appointments are handled through our secure client portal.
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We like to keep things transparent. Our initial consultation is a complimentary 15-minute discovery call. After that, it's $250 for our initial assessment session and $200 for follow-up sessions.
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The NYC therapy scene is like no other. Availability is limited, in-network providers are few and far between, and rates can be eye-watering. It's a tough nut to crack. Many clinics have high caseloads and a revolving door of therapists. Plus, big tech platforms advertise "affordable" online therapy by exploiting newbie therapists, compromising privacy, and favoring shareholder profits. It's a tough gig, but rest assured, I'm here to make a difference.
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The duration of our therapy tango is a little tricky to predict. It depends on various factors, like the severity of the issue, how long you've been wrestling with it, and your willingness to participate. I'm no wallflower in this dance; I'm an active participant. You won't find vague self-discovery prompts here. We'll be crystal clear, focusing on strategies to reduce stress, challenge negative thoughts, and achieve an abundance mindset. I respect your time and will only use methods that have proven to make a difference.
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If you ever feel that our therapy tango isn't hitting the right notes, let's talk about it. We'll discuss what's not clicking and if there's a better-suited clinician or approach for you. No hard feelings, we're all about finding your perfect match!
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Private pay is your golden ticket if you're uninsured, under-insured, or simply want more control over your therapy. You call the shots on frequency, duration, and style without questioning what could be done with your data.
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Ah, the length of our sessions, you ask? Well, our first rendezvous, an assessment and introduction, will sweep you off your feet for one glorious hour. Follow-up sessions are shorter, lasting 45-50 minutes. EMDR sessions, on the other hand, are a tad more demanding, taking 90 minutes. Longer sessions can be scheduled if you prefer or believe it'll add a little extra sparkle to our work.
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We offer morning, mid-day and evening sessions during the week.