Andrea Singer, Ph.D.

My Approach:

You are here because you want something to change – in yourself, in your relationships, or in your environment. I believe the first step to change is unflinching, compassionate recognition and acceptance of where you are starting from. That is where we will begin our work. It takes courage, humility, and trust to make an honest appraisal of one’s circumstances in the presence of someone else, even if that person is your therapist. There is also tremendous healing in that process. Together we will build trust and learn to look with curiosity and compassion at yourself and circumstances. As we continue in our work together, we will identify goals and the core experiences or skills you need to attain those goals. Through our work, you will engage in the experiences you need to grow and you will develop the skills required to adapt successfully in areas where you have previously found yourself frustrated. 

In our work together, we will address the three mediums through which human experience is processed: physical sensation, emotions, and cognitions. I pay close attention to your capacity to regulate your autonomic nervous system (your body), your feelings, and your thoughts and teach you how to notice these three dimensions of your experience and bring them under control. My therapeutic approach is heavily informed by the latest research in trauma and attachment theory. My clinical style draws on relational and self psychology as well as somatic therapies. My thinking is influenced by object relations theory. I am trained in EMDR and sometimes incorporate cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy interventions into my work. For those who have difficulty putting their experiences into words, I am accustomed to finding creative modes of communication, including use of the arts, movement and sensation. 
 

Professional Background:

I received my PhD in Clinical Psychology from The New School for Social Research in New York City where my research focused on the intersection of individual and cultural trauma and the impact of marginalization on an individual’s cultural trauma response. I have pursued advanced training in the treatment of trauma at the National Institute for Psychotherapy and have a particular interest in somatic therapies. I am EMDR trained and have experience working with patients with a history of childhood trauma, intimate partner or domestic violence, event traumas, and religious trauma. I am also trained in substance abuse counseling and have an appreciation for the co-occurrence of trauma and problematic substance use. My professional experience has ranged from facilitating group therapy in hospitals and domestic violence shelters, to providing individual psychotherapy in trauma and adult outpatient clinics. I have experience in and passion for working with the trauma that arises from marginalization, including among members of the LGBTQ and TGNC community; racial, ethnic and religious minorities; and those who have disabilities.