I offer online therapy for overwhelmed adults ready to let go of shame and treat themselves with compassion, including those navigating complex mental health, substance use, neurodivergence, or 2e parenting.
Have you tried self-help books, scented candles, and mental health TikTok to deal with the challenges of your complicated life, but still somehow feel like crap? Maybe you’ve:
There’s a lot of not-so-helpful “help” out there.
I’ve experienced some myself. So if you’re ready to throw up your hands and turn to Dr. Google or a magic wand, I get it.
Yes, I really do have TWO magic wands. I’ll wave them around if you want, but they’re mostly for dramatic effect. Because what actually works is real talk, human connection, and being seen and accepted as a person with a full, complicated life.
I also have a full (metaphorical) toolbox.
I pull from a variety of approaches and adapt them to what actually helps you. Together, we find what fits.
We move at your speed, on your terms. Some sessions start with “I don’t know what to talk about” and end somewhere unexpectedly useful. Some are mostly venting, some are quiet, and some involve lots of laughing.
You’ll get an active therapist who engages fully.
I offer perspective and curiosity, not just “uh-huhs.” After 25 years, I’ve probably heard it all (and worse).
It Is:
It Isn’t:
This can include:
Or we can just talk.
No pressure. Just show up.
Hi, I’m Emy Zener (she/her). I’ve been practicing for almost 25 years, 18 in community mental health and substance use programs. I know most people don’t need “fixing.” They need space to fully be themselves.
Before becoming a therapist, I acted, sang, and danced (so I know drama). I’m also mom to a grown-and-flown, twice-exceptional neurodivergent kid.
Why I do this work
I live my work. I’ve learned that perfectionism isn’t living and that shame isn’t a reliable narrator.
I use my training and all of my experience to help people address shame around identity, mental health, substance use, parenting, and experiences rarely spoken aloud.
BA in Women’s Studies (Wesleyan), MSW (NYU), training in IFS, trauma, harm reduction, neurodivergence, and substance use. Work in substance use programs, outpatient clinics, and LGBTQ+ health centers since 2001, and private practice since 2019. Adjunct faculty at Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College.
I now support adults navigating addiction, complex mental health, and raising neurodivergent kids while managing their own complex selves.
Say the scary thing out loud to loosen its grip, kind of like turning on the light in a room you thought had a monster in it.
Here’s how it works
Choose a sentence you never say out loud.
Examples:
Begin with “I think.” Say it in the mirror, shower, or on a walk. Notice your body: clenched stomach? Numb? Butterflies?
“…and that doesn’t mean I’m a bad person.” Or: “…and I’m still worthy of love.” You don’t have to believe it yet. Just try.
You named the thought as a thought. You’re still here. That’s a win.
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