Rikki Herbst, LCSW

Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom. -Victor Frankl

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Rikki Herbst, LCSW's style

Why Rikki Herbst, LCSW chose to be in the helping profession

I chose this work because I have seen how early experiences and relational trauma can leave lasting imprints on the body, mind, and spirit. Becoming a therapist felt like a natural extension of that understanding, because I have witnessed how profoundly healing can transform a person’s relationship with themselves and with the world around them. I am drawn to supporting adults carrying complex or developmental trauma, particularly when religious or spiritual experiences have left fear, shame, or confusion, because I know how isolating it can feel to navigate those experiences alone. I value creating a space where people feel truly seen and understood, where their body, mind, and emotions are acknowledged and honored.

It is deeply meaningful to me to witness clients reconnect with their inner wisdom and reclaim their sense of self, step by step, at a pace that respects both their nervous system and their personal history. I approach therapy with the belief that transformation is possible when people are met with attuned, compassionate support. My work is centered on helping people move from survival toward greater safety, self-trust, and connection, and on offering a consistent, steady presence as they explore their experiences. Each session is an opportunity to foster understanding, resilience, and a renewed sense of agency in life.

Rikki Herbst, LCSW's approach

My approach is somatic, relational, and trauma-informed. I integrate parts work through Internal Family Systems, attachment-based therapy, and nervous system regulation to help clients reconnect with their body, mind, and emotions. Sessions are grounded in safety, choice, and collaboration, because healing is most effective when people feel seen, understood, and empowered to explore their experiences at a pace that honors their nervous system. I focus on helping clients build awareness of their inner parts, recognize patterns rooted in trauma, and develop new, self-compassionate ways of relating to themselves and others.

While I primarily work with adults, I also support older adolescents navigating trauma or identity transitions. Each session is an opportunity to deepen understanding, strengthen resilience, and practice self-compassion in real time. My work is guided by the belief that transformation happens when people are met with consistent, attuned support that honors their experiences and encourages gentle growth. I aim to provide a space where curiosity, safety, and empowerment can coexist, allowing clients to reconnect with themselves and move toward meaningful change.

What you can expect from sessions with Rikki Herbst, LCSW

Sessions are collaborative and paced according to your comfort and readiness. We pay close attention to what your body is communicating, explore thoughts and feelings without judgment, and provide tools to support regulation, grounding, and self-awareness. You can expect to be met with empathy, patience, and curiosity, without pressure or quick fixes. Over time, clients often notice greater clarity, increased self-trust, and the ability to navigate difficult emotions and relational patterns with more ease.

Each session is tailored to your unique experiences, including the effects of complex trauma or religious and spiritual harm. The focus is on building safety, insight, and meaningful change while honoring your personal pace. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported in reconnecting with yourself, strengthening resilience, and exploring new ways of relating to both yourself and others. Healing unfolds step by step, with attention to your body, mind, and emotions at every stage.

Rikki Herbst, LCSW's experience working with the Jewish community

I have worked with individuals and families across the spectrum of Jewish observance, including Orthodox communities, supporting a wide range of concerns such as trauma, anxiety, behavioral challenges, parenting, and complex family dynamics. I approach this work with cultural humility and a deep respect for religious values, traditions, and community life. I pay close attention to how faith, family systems, and communal expectations can shape emotional wellbeing and relationships, and I work with clients in ways that honor their values and goals.

I also have experience supporting individuals navigating questions of identity or life transitions when and if those topics arise. My focus is on creating a safe, thoughtful space where clients can explore these experiences without judgment while staying connected to what matters most to them. I aim to provide guidance and support that strengthens resilience, fosters self-understanding, and encourages meaningful growth within the context of both personal and communal life.

Rikki Herbst, LCSW's Book Recommendation Zone

• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
  This book is the foundation of understanding how trauma impacts the body.
• Parenting from the Inside Out by Daniel J. Siegel
  An incredible guide to addressing parenting triggers
• Waking the Tiger by Peter A. Levine
  Another important read for understanding trauma and the body
• The Wisdom of Anxiety by Sheryl Paul
  A beautifully written reframe of anxiety
• Daring Greatly by Brene Brown
  Excellent read for those wanting to explore vulnerability, courage, and shame
• Bittersweet by Susan Cain
  A stunning book about the complex relationship between joy and pain
• The Myth of Normal by Gabor Mate
  An excellent book about trauma and culture

Approaches

• Attachment-based
• Equine-Assisted Therapy
• Internal Family Systems (IFS)
• Psychodynamic Therapy
• Somatic Therapy

Concerns

• Anxiety
• Codependency
• LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics
• Parenting
• Relationships
• Religious Identity Issues
• Transitions & Change
• Trauma

6 years in practice

Licenses

• LCSW by New York 2020. License number 090485

Degrees

• PhD by Wurzweiler School of Social Work 2025
• Master of Social Work by Wurzweiler School of Social Work 2017
• Master of Education by Daemen College 2011

Trainings

• Self-Regulation Training by Dr. Reggie Melrose 2018
• Connection Focused Therapy by Dr. Rebecca Bailey 2022
• Sandtray by Miriam Schecter 2020

Average costs per session

$225 - $300

Payment Methods

• Free consultation
• Cash
• Check
• Credit Card
• Zelle Quick Pay