Daniel Bentley, Ph. D.

The feeling of love comes and goes on a whim; you can't control it. But the action of love is something you can do, regardless of how you are feeling. - Russ Harris

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Daniel Bentley, Ph. D.'s style

Why Daniel Bentley, Ph. D. chose to be in the helping profession

From a young age, I was deeply fascinated by the human mind and the complexities of emotions and behavior. This curiosity, paired with a profound desire to understand and alleviate the struggles of others, led me to pursue a career in psychology. A pivotal moment in my journey was being mentored by a compassionate professor whose dedication to his students and clients deeply inspired me. Witnessing the transformative power of empathy and support in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges solidified my decision to become a psychologist.

Realizing that I could contribute to someone’s well-being and help them navigate their inner conflicts fueled my passion for this profession. Choosing psychology was not just a career choice but a calling driven by my intrinsic motivation to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Throughout my education and professional experiences, I have seen firsthand the resilience of the human spirit and the incredible progress individuals can make with the right guidance and support.

The influence of my professors and clinical mentors, combined with my personal experiences, continuously reinforces my commitment to this rewarding field. The privilege of being entrusted with people's innermost thoughts and feelings, and the opportunity to foster growth and self-awareness, drives my dedication to being a catalyst for positive change. Everyone deserves a chance to lead a fulfilling life, and as a psychologist, I am committed to supporting that journey.

Daniel Bentley, Ph. D.'s approach

As a psychologist specializing in dual diagnosis, I recognize the complex interplay between substance use and mental health disorders. Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I provide an integrated therapeutic approach to address both conditions simultaneously. ACT helps clients develop psychological flexibility by embracing their thoughts and emotions without judgment, which is crucial when dealing with co-occurring disorders.

Through mindfulness practices and values-based action, clients learn to manage their mental health symptoms while reducing reliance on substances. This holistic approach empowers individuals to commit to a life aligned with their values, fostering resilience and long-term recovery. I aim to create a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment where clients can achieve meaningful change and improve their overall well-being.

What you can expect from sessions with Daniel Bentley, Ph. D.

When we work together, you can expect a supportive and collaborative environment. I will actively listen to your concerns and validate your feelings, ensuring you feel heard and understood. Through our compassionate dialogue, we'll explore your values and identify what truly matters to you.

Our sessions will focus on accepting difficult emotions and thoughts rather than avoiding them, helping you become more psychologically flexible. By embracing your inner experiences without judgment, you can develop healthier ways to cope with challenges. We'll work together to break unhelpful patterns and build resilience in the face of adversity.

I believe in setting meaningful goals that align with your personal values. We'll identify specific, achievable objectives and develop practical strategies to help you reach them. This process will provide you with a clear sense of direction and a roadmap for your journey towards a fulfilling life.

In addition to goal-setting, we'll also explore various techniques and tools that you can use in your daily life. Whether it's mindfulness practices, cognitive restructuring, or behavioral exercises, I'll equip you with practical skills to manage your mental health symptoms and reduce reliance on substances. Our work together will be dynamic and tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you receive the most effective support possible.

Throughout our time together, I aim to create a safe and nurturing space where you feel comfortable expressing yourself. We'll celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and learn from any setbacks along the way. My goal is to empower you to take control of your life, make positive changes, and ultimately lead a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.

Daniel Bentley, Ph. D.'s experience working with the Jewish community

Working as a psychologist within the Jewish community has been a profoundly rewarding experience, allowing me to engage with clients across a wide spectrum of religiosity and values. I have experience treating individuals from observant Orthodox and Chassidic communities to those with more secular and traditional backgrounds. In every interaction, I strive to balance my role as a therapist with deep respect for each client's unique level of religious observance and personal values.

This approach has enabled me to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel understood and respected, regardless of their background. Navigating the complexities of varying levels of religiosity has been central to my work, as I have addressed issues such as intergenerational trauma, identity struggles, and the pressures of maintaining religious practices in secular settings.

By tailoring my therapeutic methods to align with each client's beliefs and traditions, I have been able to offer effective support that honors their cultural and religious identities. This sensitivity has been crucial in building trust and fostering meaningful therapeutic relationships, ensuring that my clients receive the compassionate care they need while staying true to their values and faith.

My work with the Jewish community has also given me insight into the unique challenges and strengths that come with this cultural context. I have learned the importance of community support, the role of religious practices in daily life, and the value of cultural continuity. These experiences have enriched my practice and deepened my commitment to providing culturally competent care.

Through my work, I have seen the incredible resilience and resourcefulness of individuals navigating the intersection of their mental health and religious lives. It is an honor to support my clients as they strive for balance and well-being, and I am dedicated to continuing to learn and grow in my ability to serve this vibrant and diverse community.

Daniel Bentley, Ph. D.'s Book Recommendation Zone

• The Happiness Trap
• The Miracle of Mindfulness
• Harm Reduction Psychotherapy

Approaches

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
• Mindfulness and Meditation
• Motivational Interviewing

Concerns

• Addiction
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

2 years in practice

Licences

• Psychology by New York 2024. License number 026288
• Psychology by New Jersey 2024
• Out of state telehealth provider by Florida

Degrees

• PhD by Hofstra University 2022
• MA by Hofstra University 2016
• BA by Lander College for Men 2014

Certificates

• Harm Reduction Therapy by Dr. Andrew Tatarsky 2024

Trainings

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Seminar by Hofstra University 2017

Affiliations

• National Council on Problematic Gambling 2024
• Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies

Average costs per session

$200 - $250

Payment Methods

• Sliding Scale
• Free consultation
• Credit Card