“One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful.”
PSYCHOTHERAPY WITH BOB LESSER
I believe we all have healing to do and my therapeutic approach seeks to normalize the process of turning pain into purpose. I remain optimistic that the hard work of finding truth and reconciliation in one’s own life is the most meaningful thing we can devote ourselves to.
In my work as a psychotherapist, I am focused on finding answers to the question of what is most therapeutic for my patients. How can they understand themselves better, feel a greater sense of efficacy in the world, and build a stronger sense of self? And, when that sense of self has become obscured, how can it be clarified and reclaimed? These questions drew me to Self Psychology’s blueprint for self-actualization and to the American Relational school which stressed the therapeutic dimensions of the relationship between the client and therapist.
My Training and Credentials
My training is in psychodynamic psychotherapy, that is, the theory and techniques developed by Sigmund Freud which were further developed by those who followed him. I use these theoretical approaches along with attachment theory, infant research, and Bionion theory, among others, to form a guiding approach to my clinical practice. I have completed additional training in trauma, neuroscience, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Hypnotherapy, and Internal Family Systems to further enhance my ability to support my clients toward healing and growth. I am also a long-time student of Buddhism and meditation.
I attended the National Institute for the Psychotherapies in New York City where I completed the Adult Training Program in Psychoanalysis & Comprehensive Psychotherapy, and I am Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York State.
I also hold a Masters in Public Policy from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government which helps me understand the intra- and inter-physic dynamics of my clients through a broader cultural lens.
My Services and Specialties
I provide Individual psychotherapy to adults. I offer my services virtually (by phone or video), and am able to work with individuals residing in New York State. My areas of specialization include:
Finding meaning and direction in life
Life transitions into early adulthood and mid-life
Depression and Anxiety
Loneliness and Social Anxiety
Support for Parents
Men’s work
Work and Career issues
Stress Management
Grief and loss
Chronic pain
Addiction
Conflict Resolution
Fees and Insurance
Fees are discussed as part of our initial consultation. I do not accept insurance, although patients may submit to their insurance provider for reimbursement.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality between client and psychotherapist is sacrosanct. What is discussed in session will not be shared with anyone (unless you are planning to harm yourself or others).
Next Steps
If you are interested in embarking on this journey, the process begins with a free thirty-minute consultation where we determine if working together is the right fit. I learn about you and what you are seeking and you see how I work. Once we agree to continue, we will set a time to begin our work together. Sessions are typically weekly, lasting 45 minutes in duration.
To set up a preliminary consultation please email me at bob@boblesser.com or at my Contact page.
I hope to hear from you soon.
Yours, in the beautiful struggle,
Bob