Heidi Besse, Ph.D

People come to therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Whatever the reason, I create a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental environment that helps people feel seen and heard. I specialize in working with teens and their caregivers to promote effective communication and enhance resilience within the family system. At times, family-focused work can include integrated sessions with parents and their children, couples-focused work, or parenting sessions geared towards navigating the challenges associated with being a caregiver. I also hold particular interest and experience working with young adults undergoing multiple life transitions, which often include career concerns, relationship difficulties, and identity development.

My approach to therapy is best described as integrative with a relational focus. The quality of the therapeutic relationship is my utmost priority. Through a blend of humor, validation, and compassionate regard, I help individuals feel comfortable exploring their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I draw on evidence-based interventions from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical-Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help individuals function to their potential. This approach is effective for a wide range of difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting struggles, self-esteem issues, relationship and family concerns, school-related difficulties, bereavement, and career transitions.

A bit about me: I am born and raised in Canada and received my undergraduate degree at McGill University. Being a dual citizen, I moved to New York City where I pursued my doctorate in Counseling Psychology at Fordham University. I have worked in many different clinical capacities throughout NYC, including college counseling centers, child/adolescent and adult inpatient and outpatient settings. Prior to starting at SelfWorks, I worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, and families at Elmhurst Hospital/Mt. Sinai Services.