My Approach
Individual and couples therapy in Haifa, Tel Aviv and New York.
I am located in Israel and also provide teletherapy for clients in New York. With over fifteen years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have worked with people from all different backgrounds, including military veterans and their family members, immigrants, and survivors of trauma. I can help with a range of problems related to depression, anxiety, difficulty with life transitions, relationship stressors or trauma.
I believe in creating an open and genuine environment in which you feel comfortable being yourself and sharing aspects of your life--big or small--that you would like to change. My work incorporates aspects of mind-body connection, creativity, and a focus on each person's strengths.
Learning about cultures beyond my own has been an integral part of my life and a theme I build into my work as well. I can relate to the complexities of acculturation having moved to Israel from New York City. I have also lived and worked in Russia during my prior career in international development and hold a BA in international relations and an MA in Russian Studies. I travel widely and always seek to broaden my knowledge of the world.
Training and Experience
I hold a master's degree from Columbia University School of Social Work and completed a two-year trauma training program at the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy in NYC. I am also a New York State licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a registered social worker here in Israel.
I began my 15-year psychotherapy career working at a community-based mental health clinic managed by the Jewish Board of Family and Children's Services in Brooklyn and then transitioned to working at a clinic for veterans and their family members at New York University's School of Medicine. I also held a private practice in NYC.
I am an EMDRIA certified EMDR provider and have training in a range of other approaches including Somatic Experiencing (SE), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR VISIT
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Here's how I can help.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy can address a range of issues such as life stressors and transitions, relationship problems, or traumatic experiences that contribute to anxiety, depression, difficulty focusing, low self esteem or other symptoms. Together we will create a shared understanding of how you are being affected and form a clear plan for change that meets your unique needs and goals.
Couples Therapy
My approach helps you as a couple identify underlying reasons why you have lost connection with one another and have found yourselves in patterns of behavior such as pulling away, shutting down, arguing frequently, or feeling like you "can't get things right." By understanding these patterns more deeply we can create a roadmap for improving your relationship both during and after our work together.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth means that therapy is held via video sessions rather than in person at a therapist's office. This approach can reduce travel time and allow you to fit the support you need into a busy schedule. You can even take part from the comfort of your own home.
All sessions are held on a secure platform that ensures your privacy is protected. We can schedule an initial online consultation to make sure this type of therapy is the right fit for you and that it feels comfortable. Reach out to me by e-mail and I will be happy to schedule a consultation.
CONTACT ME
I am able to see clients in person at my offices in Haifa (Carmel Center) and Tel Aviv (Habima Square) or via video session. I offer flexible hours to accommodate work and personal schedules. You can contact me via email below or at sara@svangunstlcsw.com and by phone or What's App at +972 058 4007570 to discuss setting up an appointment.
If your situation requires immediate attention, please refer to the nearest emergency room.