Aaron Shragge

I'm a licensed creative arts therapist and board-certified music therapist based in New York — and yes, that means what you think it means. Music and creative expression aren't "extras" in my practice; they're tools I use intentionally when talk therapy alone isn't breaking through. I've worked with adults dealing with anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and depression — including musicians, healthcare workers, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is psychodynamic and mindfulness-based, which means we'll explore what's underneath, not just manage symptoms on the surface. I work with adults, and I take both the depth and the pace of the work seriously.

I practice psychodynamic therapy informed by mindfulness — and occasionally music, when it opens doors that words can't. I'm drawn to the Jungian and humanistic traditions because I believe people make more progress when therapy feels expansive rather than prescriptive. I won't tell you what to feel, but I will ask you the kinds of questions that help you figure it out yourself. My style is warm and direct. I'll be honest with you, and I expect the same in return. Therapy works best when there's genuine trust and genuine curiosity — I aim to build both.

The first session is mostly me getting to know you — what brought you here, what you've tried before, and what you're hoping for. There's no intake form to read aloud. I'll ask questions and actually listen. We'll talk about what's bothering you and start to figure out what kind of support makes sense.