Rachel A. Barash, LCSW

My hope is for my clients to feel seen, accepted and genuinely understood; to have the innermost parts of themselves witnessed and validated. I work with individuals to address, examine and better understand the anxiety, depression, and relationship issues they’re experiencing, as well as the feelings of shame and self-criticism that often accompany them.

I believe therapy should be a highly collaborative process wherein you and I forge a safe, trusting relationship and work together to define what’s ultimately important to you. Much of what I do is focused on helping you to cultivate a curiosity about, and understanding of, your thoughts, feelings and experiences and their origins; we’ll explore how past experiences and formative relationships may be contributing to the present challenges you’re facing. We’ll look at the ways you may have internalized negative feelings or beliefs that don’t accurately reflect who you are, or who you want to be, or have developed coping mechanisms that don’t serve you.

This greater sense of self-awareness will allow you to separate your truest self from any maladaptive beliefs and cultivate more productive ways of navigating challenges. These insights and improved coping skills are essential to discovering the choices that feel most connected to your genuine self, and will allow you to engage with the world and those around you in an authentic and satisfying way.

I received my Master of Social Work from NYU. I have worked with clients of many backgrounds and ages, and with a variety of presenting issues, including women with substance use disorders, individuals leaving the ultra-orthodox Jewish community, and survivors of domestic violence.