Ariella Peist, LCSW — Therapist in New York

Hi there, I'm Ariella!

For over 15 years, I've had the privilege of working and supporting people through some of life's most challenging moments. I combine clinical depth and a blend of a direct and accepting approach, as I believe real change happens when you feel truly safe, understood, and never alone in it.

My focus

I work with adults and couples facing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship pain, and grief. If you're carrying more than you let on and are ready for something to shift, I am here to help and guide you through this with patience, skill, and focus on your growth.

My approach

What guides my work most is you. I meet you where you are, bring evidence-based tools that actually fit your personality and needs, and work alongside you to build real, lasting change from the inside out. I draw on CBT, DBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, Prolonged Exposure, and trauma-informed care to get us there.

My communication style

I'm warm, honest, and direct. I create a space that is safe and judgment-free, and I'll help you get insight and recognize your growth potential.

My journey to mental healthcare

I believe that there's nothing quite like being trusted with someone's most vulnerable experiences. I was drawn to this work by a deep belief in people's capacity to heal and grow, and after 15+ years, I am still moved by the courage it takes to begin and the transformation I get to witness.

My goals for you

Treatment goals are built together from your point of view. Understanding those, we'll build a path forward, providing tools you can use and strategies that can help with progress. We will review progress and adjust as needed so therapy stays meaningful and moving. Small shifts add up, and I'll help you notice them over time.

Our first session

The first session is the opportunity to get to know what this space might feel like, what you are challenged by, and how I can support you. It's relaxed and focuses on you. We'll talk about what brought you here, and what you're hoping for. There's no pressure to have it all figured out, as we will figure it out together.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White, Hispanic or Latinx

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Dialectical (DBT)

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Behavioral Activation

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Mindfulness-Based

+ 7 more

Focus populations

Cancer

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

Gay

LGBTQIA+

Police/Fire/First Responders

Queer

Single Mother

+ 7 more

Therapy types

Couples Therapy
Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem
Arlo

+ 16 more

Languages spoken

English, Hebrew, Spanish

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) from Hunter College, School of Social Work.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Ariella Peist