Life is complicated.

Some people seem like they have it all together, presenting a picture of ideal health and wellbeing, when they are silently suffering.

Are you able to function in your day-to-day activities at work and home, but feel like you are not yourself?

You may have trouble experiencing true joy or pleasure. Or perhaps you are having trouble even meeting your daily minimum for your career and family, let alone nurturing your social life.

On top of all of that, it is not unusual to also have a sense of shame for feeling unwell when, to the outside world, what could you possibly have to complain about?

Alena Gerst, LCSW, NYC psychotherapist

Does any of this sound familiar?

  • You have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

  • It feels hard to wake up and get out of bed

  • You are constantly worried and get out of bed

  • It feels impossible to make a decision

  • It seems like everything, and everyone, is against you

  • You’re exhausted, physically and emotionally

  • You wonder if people even like you, and if so, why?

  • You are your “own worst enemy”
  • You constantly feel guilty, or like you’ve done something wrong
  • Your body hurts
  • Motivation feels like a distant memory
  • You just “can’t”
  • The thought of taking care of yourself, let alone anyone else, feels unthinkable
  • You feel hopeless

Need support? You’ve come to the right place.
Call us or message us or schedule online. Your choice!

Integrative Psychotherapy for Mind and Body

Services are offered in our midtown west office in Manhattan, or online throughout New York, Arizona, and Texas.

Washington Square Park; Therapy for anxiety in NYC

Find relief from persistent worry and build practical tools to feel calmer, more grounded, and in control.

Woman waiting for the subway; Therapy for women's mental health in NYC

Compassionate support for the emotional challenges, transitions, and pressures women experience throughout life.

Father and son in Central Park; Therapy for special needs parents in NYC

A supportive space to process the unique stress, grief, joy, and complexity of parenting a child with special needs.

Person performing in Central Park; Therapy for performance artists in Central Park

Navigate performance anxiety, creative pressures, career uncertainty, and the emotional demands of life as an artist.

Bench in Bryant Park; Therapy for chronic illness and disabilities in NYC

Support for navigating the emotional impact of chronic illness or disability while making space for the whole of who you are.

Sign for uptown and downtown; Therapy for NYC living

Find more balance and connection while managing the stress, pace, and pressures of life in New York City.

Get Started in 3 Easy Steps

Call, Email of schedule a fee consult online with Alena Gerst, LCSW

1. Reach Out

Message us, call us, or schedule an initial 20 minute consultation directly to our calendars.

Let's Chat

2. Let’s get to know each other

We will learn about your goals for therapy and answer your questions.

Begin Sessions

3. We’ll dive in together

Whether you’re meeting in person, online, or hybrid, your therapy journey begins!