Alena Gerst, LCSW, RYT (she/her)

Nice to meet you!

Do you say things like, “I’m my own worst critic?”

Are you harder on yourself than anyone else could ever be?

If self criticism is something that comes easily or naturally to you, you’ve come to the right place.

From our first session and beyond, my overall approach is “strengths based,” which means I have full confidence that you can handle the challenges you’re facing with the right support and new skills. You will come into each session knowing that I believe in you, even if you don’t (yet) believe in yourself.

My clients work across industries from the arts, law, business, medicine, caregiving, and more. My specific areas of expertise include anxiety therapy, therapy for women, therapy for parents of neurodivergent children (including PDA), performing artists, disabilities & chronic conditions, and life in NYC.

Based in NYC, I currently have online/virtual therapy openings in NY, AZ, and TX.

Our sessions will be more like conversations, rather than you talking while I passively listen. My priority is to foster an environment where you feel understood and deeply supported.

As you grow more comfortable with me, I will be listening for patterns that are keeping you stuck. We will work to challenge your thoughts and behaviors that are holding you back, through a compassionate, constructive, non-critical lens.

While therapy is serious, and often intense work, we will also share laughs, and celebrate your victories too.

Culture and Identity

The context of culture and identity shapes who we are. My goal is to learn about your values, traditions, and community with curiosity and care as we develop our relationship. You are always welcome to ask any questions you may have about my heritage and background if they come up.

Psychotherapy is my second career.

Throughout my 10 years as a professional performing artist, my passion for mind/body oriented healing eventually became my life’s work through mental healthcare. I am a dedicated yoga practitioner in the Iyengar method, certified yoga teacher (200hr)  and level 1 LifeForce yoga practitioner for mood management.

I enjoy traveling, and exploring NYC with my husband and kids, reading biographies and nonfiction, following current events, watching standup comedy, listening to jazz, and I am a bona fide “dog person.”