Sandy Weiner

I am a therapist that genuinely listens to what the client is saying. I embrace their gestures and mannerisms. I have an LCSW along with a Psy D in psychology. I facilitated a Bipolar Group for 7 yrs as part of my practice. I am comfortable identifying the deficits that people struggle with on a daily basis. I wrote a book that provides guidance for someone struggling with mood instability. I help them learn how to love even though they might have been deprived as a child. I believe everyone has the human trait to love. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with motivational therapy to assist in their growth. I work with adults from age 18 thru 85.

I practice a humanistic approach to therapy, which means I believe you are inherently capable of growth, self-actualization, and healing. In our sessions, you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to offer a collaborative partnership rooted in deep empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine authenticity.

I understand that what often looks like extreme negativity, rigid defense mechanisms, or self-sabotage in adulthood is frequently a coping strategy born out of an unhappy or unstable childhood. When a child grows up with parents who struggle with substance abuse, the environment can be unpredictable, confusing, and emotionally withholding.

Because we cannot change the past, our work together focuses heavily on the present. My approach centers on:

Building Healthy Coping Skills: We will work practically to replace outdated survival strategies with actionable tools to manage stress, regulate emotions, and set healthy boundaries. Empowering Autonomy: I don't aim to "fix" you; instead, I aim to provide you with the insight and tools necessary to navigate life entirely on your own terms.

Honoring Your Narrative: We explore how your early history shapes your current worldview, helping you gently reframe negative core beliefs without judgment. If you would like to explore working together, please let me know: What specific goals or challenges are bringing you to therapy right now? Have you been in therapy before, and if so, what worked best for you? We can tailor our initial sessions to focus exactly on what you need.

Your first therapy session is all about establishing a foundation of safety, comfort, and mutual understanding. Entering therapy can feel like a vulnerable step, which is why my primary goal from the moment we begin is to ensure you feel deeply heard and completely secure.

Here is what our first 55 minutes together will look like:

A Welcoming, Low-Pressure Environment: We will start at a pace that feels comfortable for you. There is no pressure to share your entire life story all at once. You control the depth and speed of what we discuss. Active, Empathetic Listening: This session is your space. I am here to listen without judgment, to understand your unique perspective, and to validate the experiences that brought you here.

Collaborative Goal Setting: While comfort is essential, so is progress. Together, we will gently explore what you hope to achieve through therapy. A Roadmap for Growth: By the end of our first session, you will get a sense of how we will work together. You can expect to leave with the confidence that you are partnering with someone who understands your challenges and is fully capable of guiding you toward the practical tools you need to heal, adapt, and move forward. You do not have to navigate this journey alone. Our first session is simply the first step toward a safer, more empowered you.