CBT is based on the idea that how we perceive situations affects how we feel and how we behave. It is focused on building coping skills and identifying and changing distorted thinking patterns in order to better manage mood and change problematic behaviors. Many studies have shown in to be effective for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and a wide variety of other mental health problems. CBT is best for problems requiring a short term treatment model, usually running for only several months. In this style of therapy, the therapist is active and directive in educating the patient in the cognitive model and exploring, identifying, and modifying problematic thinking patterns.
Schema therapy is an integrative therapy for the treatment of lifelong, chronic issues, such as long term relationship issues & work and interpersonal issues, low self-esteem and feelings of failure, abandonment issues, and the like. It is based on the idea that via early childhood experiences we form basic emotional patterns for interpreting ourselves, others, and the future. These are called schemas. Some of these schemas are maladaptive and result in chronic relationship or self esteem problems as we grow into adulthood.
Schema therapy integrates concepts from CBT, gestalt, psychodynamic therapy, and others. It is a longer term therapy than CBT and focuses on more deeply engrained problems. However, similar to CBT, the therapist is active and engaged in treatment sessions in order to educate the patient about the model and in identifying and treating problematic schemas.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy emphasizes early life experiences and their relationship to present issues and concerns. It is based on the idea that early life experiences shape our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors subconsciously in the present. A psychodynamic therapist helps you to bring your subconscious world slowly into awareness via interpretations of statements and actions made in therapy. There is also an emphasis on the relationship between the patient and the therapist, as the way a patient relates to her therapist often mirrors that of early life relationships and tends to replicate problematic relationship patterns over time. The subsequent insight gained by the patient from the therapist’s interpretations is what results in progress in treatment.
Great question! The single most important factor for the success (or failure!) of therapy is your relationship with your therapist. It is important that you “vibe” with your therapist at least to some extent. Brad strives to create a warm, caring, and supportive environment in order to optimize your therapy experience. However, you are encouraged to “shop around” and find a therapist you’re comfortable with, even if that turns out not to be Brad.
The next most important factor is consistent attendance. It is difficult to do therapy if you aren’t there! So, please prioritize treatment once you’ve committed to a therapy relationship.
Finally, both cognitive and schema therapy ask the patient to agree to and complete tasks and assignments between sessions. These are always agreed upon between the therapist and the patient. However, it is important to do this work to optimize the effectiveness of the treatment.
Individual Therapy = 45 minutes
Couples Therapy = 60 minutes
Brad does not currently accept insurance. A master bill can be provided for reimbursement for those with out-of-network coverage.
You will attend therapy sessions one time per week.
Certain disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder may require two sessions per week.
Booster sessions are available on an as-needed basis following the conclusion of the initial course of therapy.
In general the contents of a therapy session are kept confidential and your therapy records are covered by federal privacy law (HIPAA).
There are important exceptions to privacy: (1) Child abuse & Neglect. Therapists are mandated reporters in the state of New York and by law have to report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect; (2) Harm to self or others. The therapist will be required to contact EMS if you are actively suicidal. Also, therapists are required to report to the police any specific homicidal threats made against another person.
Otherwise, disclosure of any treatment records is only permissible with your signed consent.
You can schedule a free 15 minute consultation call or a full appointment by using the Contact page on this website, by emailing info@bradvien.com, or by calling 646-389-2411.
Individual Therapy = $225/session
Couples therapy = $300/session
Great question! It is recommended that you try a therapist for a few sessions and be open and honest about any questions or concerns you may have. Eventually, you should feel that you “vibe” with your therapist at least somewhat. A good therapist will encourage you to find the therapist that works for you, including providing recommendations and referrals if requested.
The number of sessions required for treatment varies widely based on the particular issues you wish to focus on in treatment. A short course of cognitive therapy for mild depression can be completed in as few as 12-16 weeks. On the other hand, schema therapy or psychodynamic therapy for a personality disorder can take as long as 2-3 years or more.
In each case, the number of sessions will be discussed at your first or second therapy session during the assessment phase of treatment.
Currently all sessions are being held via video visit on Zoom.
Look for in-person sessions to resume in Manhattan sometime in 2023.
Please provide 24 hours notice for cancellation. The fee for a late cancellation is the full session fee.
Brad is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therefore cannot prescribe medication. However, referrals for psychiatric treatment are available if you would like to explore medication as part of your treatment.