Aryeh Kugel, MHC-LP

We only live once. Wrong. We only die once. We live everyday. -Snoopy

Aryeh Kugel, MHC-LP's style

Why Aryeh Kugel, MHC-LP chose to be in the helping profession

In today's world, there has been a noticeable and unfortunate rise in the need for mental health services. Post-Holocaust, the Jewish world has carried repressed trauma that continues to ripple through every generation, affecting each person in some capacity—whether they realize it or not. Baruch Hashem, we live in a time where mental health is finally being taken seriously. This shift has created space for people to recognize their pain, address it, and heal in a healthier, more productive way.

What drives me is the understanding that so many people are suffering silently—whether out of denial, fear of change, or just not knowing where to turn. I see the unspoken need in our community to bring these struggles to light, to hold space for people, and to walk with them on their journey. This realization has ignited a deep passion in me to show up, to help however I can, and to be part of a collective effort toward healing and transformation.

Aryeh Kugel, MHC-LP's approach

I approach therapy with an easy-going, nonjudgmental presence. I know that coming to therapy takes real courage, and it can feel uncomfortable at first, so I strive to make the process as pleasant and approachable as possible.

My work takes on a holistic lens, helping clients acknowledge and explore their thoughts, behaviors, and emotional processes. I often draw from a DBT framework, but I don’t limit myself to one method—each person is unique, and therapy should reflect that.

When it feels meaningful and beneficial, I incorporate Torah into the therapeutic process. For many, this integration brings a deeper sense of purpose, healing, and connection to the work we’re doing together.

What you can expect from sessions with Aryeh Kugel, MHC-LP

In our sessions, you can expect a space where your story will be heard, valued, and honored. We will work together at a pace that feels right for you, and the extent of our progress will reflect the effort and openness you bring to the process. I will encourage you to take the next step on your journey—but only when you feel ready.

Our work together may include challenging addictions and harmful behaviors, addressing cognitive distortions, reevaluating meaning and purpose in your life, and connecting past experiences to your present self. Each session is an opportunity for growth, reflection, and forward movement, guided by where you are and where you want to be.

Aryeh Kugel, MHC-LP's experience working with the Jewish community

For the past 18 months, I have been working at Pesach Tikvah, supporting teenagers and young adults who are navigating anxiety related to school, dating, ADHD, and significant life changes. Many of my clients have also chosen to involve their families in the therapeutic process, working together to repair and strengthen the family unit.

Additionally, I have been working at CARE Special Needs, where I focus on siblings of children with special needs. In this role, I help clients navigate their anxiety, attachment challenges, and behavioral struggles. I also work closely with parents and teachers to create a supportive environment for the child beyond our sessions, ensuring that progress is integrated into their day-to-day lives.

My work in these settings has deepened my understanding of the unique challenges within the Jewish community and reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate, individualized care.

Aryeh Kugel, MHC-LP's Book Recommendation Zone

• From Boys to Men
• The Whole Brainchild
• Atomic Habits

Approaches

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  A mindfulness-based approach encouraging acceptance of thoughts and emotions, while promoting committed actions aligned with personal values to enhance psychological flexibility and well-being.
• Attachment-based
  A therapeutic approach focusing on building secure emotional bonds and repairing attachment disruptions, often used to address relationship issues and promote emotional resilience and well-being.
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
  Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a holistic therapeutic approach that integrates cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies, fostering the development of essential skills to effectively manage emotions, enhance interpersonal relationships, and navigate life's challenges.
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
  A couples therapy approach focusing on emotional bonds and attachment patterns, helping partners understand and express feelings to improve communication, intimacy, and relationship satisfaction.
• Person-Centered Therapy
  A humanistic approach valuing empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard, fostering clients' self-discovery, personal growth, and self-acceptance within a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship.
• Play Therapy
  A therapeutic approach using play to help children express emotions, resolve conflicts, and develop coping skills, promoting emotional understanding and personal growth in a safe and creative environment.
• Sand Tray
  A therapy using sand and figurines to help express emotions, process experiences, and promote healing through symbolic play.

Concerns

• Addiction
  A strong dependence on substances or behaviors with harmful consequences, making it challenging to quit despite negative effects.
• ADHD
  A neurodevelopmental disorder causing difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, often impacting daily functioning and requiring tailored support and management.
• Anxiety
  A disorder of overwhelming worry and unease, often with physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, impacting daily life and well-being.
• Dating
  The balancing of romantic relationships while nurturing mental well-being. Prioritizing communication, boundaries, and self-care can foster a healthy connection between dating and mental health.
• Depression
  A mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities, often accompanied by changes in appetite, sleep, and energy levels.
• Emotion regulation
  The ability to manage and cope with emotions effectively, leading to improved mental well-being. Developing skills like mindfulness, self-awareness, and healthy coping strategies enhance emotional balance.
• Life purpose and meaning
  Seeking significance and fulfillment in life. Reflecting on values, passions, and engaging in activities aligned with personal purpose enhance mental well-being and overall life satisfaction.
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
  A mental health condition involving intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety. Therapy and medication can help manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.
• Oppositional defiance disorder
  A childhood disorder characterized by defiance, disobedience, and hostile behavior towards authority figures. Therapy and parenting strategies can help manage behavior and promote healthier interactions.
• Relationships
  Interactions with others influence mental well-being. Prioritize communication, empathy, and setting boundaries for healthy, supportive relationships that enhance emotional and psychological balance.
• Stress management
  Coping with daily stressors to maintain mental and physical well-being. Techniques like mindfulness, time management, and self-care help reduce stress and promote emotional balance and overall health.
• Transitions & Change
  Navigating life changes can impact mental well-being. Embrace flexibility, seek support, and practice self-compassion to manage stress and foster resilience during transitions and periods of change.

2 years in practice

Licenses

• Mental Health Counselor - Limited Permit by New York 2024. License number 18-P132413-01

Degrees

• Mental Health Counseling by New York 2024

Average costs per session

$100 - $200

Payment Methods

• Insurance
• Free consultation
• Credit Card

Insurances

• Anthem
• BlueCross and BlueShield
• Emblem
• Empire BlueCross
• Fidelis
• Medicaid
• Oxford
• United Healthcare