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I graduated from Fordham University in 2009 and began applying my new skills in trauma- and addiction-focused positions across clinics and hospitals in NYC. I continued working in crisis response services upon moving to Rochester, NY and in 2020 I became interested in sex therapy and integrative sex and couples therapy. I studied to obtain my Certification in Sex Therapy from the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists. My work focuses on a number of sexual health and mental health issues, including desire discrepancies, physical concerns that limit one's ability to enjoy preferred sexual activities, erotic recovery after infidelity and/or trauma, establishment of monogamy agreements, kink-affirming care and assistance to co-create polyamorous relationship agreements.

Hello. I am a master's level licensed mental health counselor in the state of New York who has 15+ years clinical experience helping people improve their overall quality of life. Individuals I have successfully worked with have come from diverse populations of all ages who had been diagnosed with a wide range of minor to severe mental health and medical diagnoses.

Environments I have worked and developed skills in include mental health clinics, child and family services, substance use clinics, refugee shelters, Catholic Health, nursing home, tele-counseling, and an Independent Living Center, fighting for the rights of and assisting those with any form of disability to get their needs met, while fostering dignity of choice. I have helped individuals overcome many barriers including trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship concerns, family issues, major life stressors, and other significant changes.

Should you choose to work with me I will do my best to set up a safe, non-judgmental, and comfortable environment in which we can work at whatever pace suits you to solve any problems you want to move past. Being a member of a social species all humans need help from others to support them in reaching their full potential; my goal as a counselor is to form a person centered therapeutic relationship with those I partner with to assist them in finetuning and/or developing whatever tools they will need to achieve their overall life goals as they build the future they desire to live.

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Marist College. My clinical background includes working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, relationship and family concerns, and the stressors that come with major life transitions.

I believe therapy works best when you feel genuinely understood, not analyzed or rushed. I bring a calm, compassionate presence to sessions and value creating a space where you can show up exactly as you are — even if you’re not sure how to put things into words yet.

I work well with clients who are thoughtful, self-aware, and may feel like they’re “functioning” on the outside but carrying anxiety, self-doubt, or emotional heaviness internally. Many of my clients are navigating life transitions, relationship concerns, stress, or long-standing patterns that no longer feel sustainable.

I view therapy as a collaborative process. You are the expert on your life, and my role is to help you better understand yourself, strengthen your emotional capacity, and move toward meaningful, lasting change — at a pace that feels safe and respectful.

My style is thoughtful, reflective, and collaborative. I strive to create a space where you feel understood and supported, while also being gently challenged when it’s helpful. Therapy with me is not about “fixing” you, but about increasing awareness, strengthening emotional capacity, and helping you move forward in a way that feels aligned and sustainable.

I draw from evidence-based approaches, tailoring therapy to each individual’s needs. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based CBT, and Narrative Therapy, allowing us to both understand current patterns and reshape the way you relate to your experiences and personal story.

I’m Varsha Pahwa, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 5+ years of experience helping individuals, families, and adolescents overcome anxiety, depression, anger management challenges, and life transitions. My practice is built on warmth, collaboration, and evidence-based care, with specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and crisis intervention.*

My background spans diverse settings—from supervising trauma-focused family therapy at New York Foundling Hospital to providing immediate support at NYC Well’s crisis hotline. This has honed my ability to help clients navigate high-stress situations, relational conflicts, and the unique pressures faced by women and caregivers. Whether you’re struggling with overwhelming emotions, burnout, or cultural identity challenges, I’m here to help you reclaim balance and confidence.

I've worked successfully with race-and class-diverse, LGBT and straight clients from teens to seniors. Many are new to NYC or in other life transitions. Clients come with anxiety, identity issues, relationship or work problems, trouble managing anger...My style is warm yet analytical, and interactive. I encourage laughter! I find that people want to understand themselves, break free from self-damaging patterns, and live more fully--and joyfully.

Hello there! My name is Shannon and whether this is your first time seeking therapy or you're looking for continuing support, I'd be honored to partner with you in your healing journey. Using trauma-informed approaches, I meet you where you're at in your journey. I've supported clients through issues such as complex trauma, anxiety, challenging relationships, grief, and low self-esteem along with others.