Shari Jacobs Psychotherapy, LCSW

From a young age, my family was pivotal in fostering a desire for service in me. After going through a difficult time during my teenage years, I was fortunate to receive the help of a trusting and kind therapist. I realized that I was deeply interested in understanding the causes of suffering, the complexities of the human experience, and how I could help make a contribution in the world. I have been trained in various therapeutic approaches that focus on examining unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, overcoming barriers to change, and developing insight into the ways in which past experiences and relationships impact the present. Drawing on years of experience working in New York City’s public hospitals, I have a genuine passion for helping people of all backgrounds tap into and fully utilize their strengths.

Starting therapy can be hard but I believe that developing a strong therapeutic relationship early on can help make the process easier. Our first few sessions will focus on understanding your reasons for seeking help, your relationships, your difficulties and strengths, and your visions for your future. I strive to create a supportive and judgment-free environment where you can be your authentic self. I will also challenge you to critically examine patterns of thinking and communicating and to try new skills outside of session. Sessions with me are typically semi-structured and involve a combination of reflection, active listening, feedback, and problem-solving. Given that no two people are the same, I individualize my methods based on your needs.

I believe that continued learning and training is a crucial part of being a competent provider. After graduate school, I completed the Intensive Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Program at the William Alanson White Institute and I continue to participate in training on topics such as exposure and response prevention therapy for OCD, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-informed care, and body-oriented approaches. I also constantly learn from my colleagues and from my current role as a supervisor of social work students.

I am excited about the increased recognition and understanding of the ways in which body and mind are connected and the new therapeutic approaches that go along with this. I am particularly excited about the current research surrounding the potential for psychedelics to promote healing and the role of therapy in helping to integrate these experiences. Lastly, I am excited about the potential for telehealth to increase access to therapy both in the present and future world.