Michelle Feder, PsyD

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Michelle Feder, PsyD's style

Why Michelle Feder, PsyD chose to be in the helping profession

From a young age, I have consistently placed a high value on both intellectual stimulation and emotional connection. Opting for a career as a psychologist has proven to be profoundly rewarding as it enables me to seamlessly merge these core values. What captivates me most is the ability to channel my innate empathy and compassion into my professional endeavors, employing evidence-based therapies to provide effective solutions for individuals grappling with mental health challenges.

As a psychologist, my role extends beyond mere assistance; it involves guiding individuals to navigate the intricate interplay between their emotional experiences and the rational facets of their minds. This task can be daunting and demanding, but I am unwaveringly committed to embracing the complexity of thoughts and emotions. Rather than shying away from inconsistencies or contradictions, I approach them head-on, aiding others in recognizing the beauty inherent in the diverse range of our internal experiences. My dedication lies in facilitating a harmonious synthesis of emotions and logic, fostering a profound understanding of one's internal landscape.

Michelle Feder, PsyD's approach

In my practice, I adopt a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) framework, viewing it as a dynamic and effective lens through which to engage with individuals. I firmly believe that the potency of CBT is maximized when infused with empathy, creativity, and flexibility, allowing for a harmonious integration of established techniques and the unique expertise that each patient brings regarding their experiences.

Central to my approach is the establishment of robust alliances with my patients, recognizing this as the essential bedrock for any CBT treatment. Acknowledging the inherent challenge of confronting distressing thoughts and emotions, I am dedicated to standing alongside my patients throughout this journey, providing unwavering support.

Understanding the intricacies of the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors is paramount. I tailor my approach by delving into the individual nuances of each patient's experience, employing both traditional cognitive and behavioral techniques for direct modification of unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. Furthermore, I integrate "third-wave" methodologies such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These approaches encourage patients to develop a willingness to embrace challenging thoughts and emotions, ultimately paving the way for a more meaningful life.

I am a firm believer in maintaining a versatile toolkit, encompassing various CBT strategies. This ensures that I can adeptly match the diverse needs of my patients, offering a tailored and comprehensive therapeutic experience.

What you can expect from sessions with Michelle Feder, PsyD

Our sessions are crafted with the purpose of guiding you towards the realization of your goals. Each session will be centered around specific skills and strategies directly aligned with your overarching therapy objectives. Flexibility and feedback are highly valued in our sessions, and I will consistently seek your input to ensure the sessions are tailored to your needs. Recognizing that therapy is a small fraction of your week, my aim is for you to leave each session with at least one tangible takeaway, a practical application of what we discussed or practiced that you can integrate into your daily life.

In each session, I bring a sense of curiosity and openness to understand your perspective. You are the expert on yourself, and I am committed to gaining insight into how you perceive yourself, others, and the world. Together, we will practice acknowledging thoughts, emotions, urges, and sensations, and collaboratively explore the potential benefits of your responses to these experiences. Central to my approach is the empowerment of choice—helping you feel empowered to make decisions about how you want to navigate your life alongside your internal experiences.

I specialize in treating conditions such as OCD, anxiety disorders, unhelpful perfectionism, adult ADHD, and depression. My approach incorporates evidence-based modalities, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and CBT. Throughout our sessions, I aim to infuse these goal-oriented approaches with flexibility, warmth, and compassion, guiding you toward a life lived with greater intention and meaning.

Michelle Feder, PsyD's experience working with the Jewish community

My professional journey has afforded me extensive experience working within the Jewish community, a realm that holds personal significance as I identify as an Orthodox Jew. This unique vantage point allows me to comprehend the cultural and religious context from which my patients' struggles emerge or persist. Recognizing the diversity of individual experiences within Judaism, I approach my work with a genuine curiosity and a non-judgmental mindset, understanding that each person's connection to their faith varies.

Specializing in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), I have encountered patients grappling with themes related to scrupulosity and other Jewish-specific content. The depth of my understanding of halacha and Jewish customs has proven invaluable in providing support tailored to their needs. This nuanced comprehension enables me to address the intricacies of their challenges in a way that resonates with their religious and cultural background.

Beyond direct patient care, I have also served as a consultant for colleagues facing issues related to their Jewish patients. This collaborative approach ensures that the unique considerations within the Jewish community are taken into account, fostering a more comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach to mental health care. My commitment extends to creating a safe and understanding space for individuals of all levels of religiosity and affiliation within the Jewish community.

Michelle Feder, PsyD's Book Recommendation Zone

• The Happiness Trap
• Freedom from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Overcoming Perfectionism
• Overcoming Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts

Approaches

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

Concerns

• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Body image
• Dating
• Depression
• Divorce/Separation
• Emotion regulation
• Gender Identity Issues
• Infertility
• Insomnia & sleep issues
• LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics
• Life purpose and meaning
• Mood Disorders
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Panic attacks/panic disorder
• Parenting
• Postpartum depression
• Prenatal, perinatal, & postpartum mental health
• Relationships
• Religious Identity Issues
• Sexual health & dysfunction
• Skin picking (excoriation)
• Stress management
• Transitions & Change
• Trichotillomania

3 years in practice

Licences

• Licsend Psychologist by New York 2022. License number 025285
• Licsend Psychologist by New Jersey 2023
• Psychology telehealth by Florida 2023

Degrees

• Psy.D. by Yeshiva University 2021
• M.A. by Yeshiva University 2017
• B.A. by Columbia University 2013

Payment Methods

• Sliding Scale
• Free consultation
• Credit Card