Simi Schwartz, LCSW

The one thing you can’t take away from me is the way I choose to respond to what you do to me. The last of one’s freedoms is to choose one’s attitude in any given circumstance. ― Viktor E. Frankl

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Simi Schwartz, LCSW's style

Why Simi Schwartz, LCSW chose to be in the helping profession

I chose to become a therapist because I find deep personal satisfaction and a profound sense of purpose in helping others. From a young age, I realized I had a strong sense of empathy and compassion that allowed me to look beyond the surface of "problems" and see each person in a more holistic and nuanced way. This innate ability to connect with people and provide support feels like a natural fit for me, and it's a path that I felt drawn to follow.

My personal journey has been marked by moments of adversity, and through these experiences, I have been fortunate to receive support and guidance from others. These encounters have not only helped me overcome my own challenges but also inspired me to give back. I understand firsthand how transformative it can be to have someone who listens, understands, and provides the necessary support during difficult times.

Working as a therapist allows me to be that person for others. I believe in the power of human connection and the importance of mental health. Each day, I am privileged to witness the resilience and strength of the human spirit as I help individuals navigate their struggles and find their own paths to healing and growth. This profession is more than just a job to me; it is a calling that aligns with my values and my desire to make a meaningful difference in the world.

In addition to the personal fulfillment I derive from this work, I am constantly inspired by the courage and vulnerability of my clients. Their willingness to confront their fears, share their stories, and work towards bettering their lives motivates me to continuously improve my skills and deepen my understanding of the human experience. Being a therapist is not just about providing support—it's about fostering a safe and empathetic space where people can explore their inner worlds and develop the tools they need to thrive.

Ultimately, my decision to enter the helping profession stems from a genuine desire to contribute positively to the lives of others. It's a journey that allows me to grow alongside my clients, and it's a privilege I am deeply grateful for every day.

Simi Schwartz, LCSW's approach

While I am trained in a variety of evidence-based practices such as CBT, IFS, ACT, and DBT, my approach to therapy is deeply rooted in being client-centered and collaborative. I firmly believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and as such, I prioritize working in partnership with my clients to tailor our approach to their unique needs and preferences.

Central to my therapeutic philosophy is the belief that each individual is the expert of their own experiences and possesses the innate wisdom and resilience needed for personal growth and healing. Therefore, I approach therapy with humility and an open mind, recognizing that my role is to provide guidance and support rather than to dictate solutions.

In our collaborative work together, we embark on a journey of exploration and self-discovery, where we jointly identify and prioritize therapeutic goals that are both realistic and meaningful to you. I view therapy as a dynamic process where we continuously reassess and adjust our strategies based on your evolving needs and progress.

Throughout our sessions, I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel empowered to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and honestly. I integrate elements of various therapeutic modalities as appropriate, drawing from my training in CBT, IFS, ACT, and DBT, but always with a focus on what resonates most with you and contributes to your overall well-being.

My goal is to support you in gaining deeper insights into yourself, developing coping skills, and fostering greater self-compassion and resilience. By building a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in mutual respect and collaboration, we can work together to navigate life's challenges and facilitate positive change in your life.

What you can expect from sessions with Simi Schwartz, LCSW

In our sessions, you can expect a dedicated and compassionate approach aimed at creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel supported and truly heard. Your well-being is my utmost priority, and I am committed to working collaboratively with you to navigate through life's challenges.

Together, we will embark on a journey of exploration and growth, where we will identify and set realistic and meaningful goals tailored specifically to your needs and aspirations. Whether you're seeking support for managing anxiety, coping with stress, navigating relationships, or addressing other areas of concern, our sessions will be guided by your unique experiences and objectives.

During our time together, my focus will be on empowering you to tap into your inherent strengths and resources. I believe that you possess the resilience and capabilities needed to overcome obstacles and thrive, and I am here to help you recognize and harness those strengths. Together, we will explore different strategies and techniques that align with your values and preferences, equipping you with practical tools and coping mechanisms to navigate life's ups and downs more effectively.

I aim to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. Whether you need a listening ear, guidance in problem-solving, or assistance in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, I am here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Through our collaborative efforts, my hope is that you will emerge from our sessions with a greater sense of self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment. Together, we can work towards creating positive and sustainable changes that enhance your overall well-being and quality of life.

Simi Schwartz, LCSW's experience working with the Jewish community

Before embarking on my journey to become a therapist, I dedicated over 20 years to serving as a Jewish educator, both in formal and informal settings. Throughout my tenure, my primary goal has always been to foster a deep sense of pride in Jewish identity while enhancing students' understanding and appreciation of Jewish traditions, holidays, and customs.

In my role as a Jewish educator, I had the privilege of engaging with students of all ages, from various backgrounds and walks of life. Whether teaching in a classroom setting or leading experiential learning activities, I approached my work with passion and dedication, striving to create meaningful and impactful educational experiences.

Beyond the classroom, I also served as a Jewish lay leader within the community, focusing on initiatives aimed at fostering community engagement and strengthening Jewish identity. Through my involvement in educational initiatives for teachers, middle school, and high school students, I had the opportunity to mentor and inspire others, guiding them on their own journeys of exploration and discovery within Judaism.

Collaboration has always been a cornerstone of my approach, and I have worked closely with Jewish organizations, synagogues, and other community groups to support their initiatives and educational programs. Whether through curriculum development, event planning, or providing educational resources, I have been deeply committed to contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Jewish life and learning within the community.

My experiences working with the Jewish community have enriched my understanding of the diverse perspectives and experiences within Judaism. They have also reinforced my belief in the power of education and community engagement as catalysts for personal and collective growth. As I transition into my role as a therapist, I carry with me the lessons learned and the relationships forged within the Jewish community, knowing that they will continue to inform and inspire my work in supporting individuals on their paths to healing and self-discovery.

Simi Schwartz, LCSW's Book Recommendation Zone

• Man's Search for Meaning
• The Last Lecture
• Tuesdays with Morrie

Approaches

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
• Internal Family Systems (IFS)
• Person-Centered Therapy

Concerns

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Emotion regulation
• Life purpose and meaning
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Parenting
• Relationships
• Stress management
• Trauma

7 years in practice

Licences

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker. License number 092336-01

Degrees

• LCSW by Adelphi University 2017
• MS.ED by Pace University 1994
• BA by American University 1987

Average costs per session

$150 - $200

Payment Methods

• Insurance
• Cash
• Check
• Zelle Quick Pay

Insurances

• Aetna
• Optum
• Oxford
• United Healthcare