Saya Weissman, Psy.D.

My Approach:

My approach to therapy is grounded in culturally sensitive relational, psychodynamic, and attachment theories, which is a jargony way to say I believe in the crucial influence of past experiences on our present sense of self, how we interact with the world around us, and how we experience relationships – including the therapy relationship. Together we will figure out what patterns and ways of being no longer work for you and how to break free from them so you can live your life in a way that feels true to who you are and what you value. I also integrate cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and problem-solving interventions as needed to best meet your individual needs and goals. Above all else —whether you want to work on self-development, anxiety, mood stability, relationship issues, trauma recovery, or any other variety of issues — my approach is about ensuring the therapy relationship is one in which you feel safe, seen, and heard and that we are working together towards your growth and well-being. 

Professional Background:

I have experience working with adults of all ages from diverse backgrounds with a wide-range of concerns including, depression/mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, major life transitions, identity development, struggles with shame, and substance abuse. I have extensive experience working with trauma-related issues including childhood physical/sexual/emotional abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, combat and war-related trauma, and racial trauma. 

Prior to MPPS, I worked at the Brooklyn VA where I provided trauma-focused individual, group, and couples therapy to veterans and active-duty military. My clinical training also includes experience at New York-Presbyterian Hospital’s Inpatient Adult Addiction Recovery Unit, NYU Postdoctoral Psychoanalytic Clinic, and Yeshiva University’s community mental health clinic. I earned my M.A. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology. I received a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Psychology from Columbia University and my B.A. in English Literature from University of Southern California. Prior to my career in psychology, I worked as a journalist and digital media strategist.