What Is Psychotherapy?

At its core, psychotherapy, sometimes referred to as “talk therapy”, is about speaking openly to gain clarity on your thoughts, emotions, and relationships. This approach is not guided by homework assignments, directives, or advice-giving, and is not formulaic.

Think of talk therapy as a dedicated space for exploring your mental life. You might discuss work stress, relational dynamics, past experiences, or emotional stressors that shape your present. The goal is often to reduce mental suffering, develop a clearer understanding of your difficulties, and find more effective ways of responding to them.

Unlike casual chats with friends, psychotherapy is a dedicated, professional partnership. We begin by developing a shared understanding of what brings you in and what you hope to get out of the work. Together we agree on the goals and the approach we will use to get there. From there, sessions are guided by the material you bring in, and we work together to make sense of it and move toward the changes you want.

My approach is psychodynamic. Rather than following a structured program or technique-driven format, my work draws on what emerges naturally as we explore your inner life and concerns. We pay attention to recurring themes, emotional patterns, and the ways past experiences continue to shape present ones. Over time, what once felt confusing or out of reach becomes clearer. I work particularly well with adults who are curious about themselves and motivated to engage in open, exploratory conversation.

Areas I commonly work with include anxiety and social concerns, depression and mood disorders, trauma, grief, obsessive and ruminative thinking, rigid patterns of thought and behavior that strain relationships, and relationship difficulties.

I offer in-person sessions at my downtown Jersey City office, three blocks from the Grove Street PATH station, and virtual sessions throughout New Jersey.