James Phillips, MA, LP
New York City, New York
VerifiedFeaturedTelehealth Available
Professions: Psychotherapist, Psychoanalyst
Languages: English
Telephone: 908-913-7481
Website: Visit Website
My Approach to Therapy
You're probably feeling anxious about reaching out to a therapist. That's totally normal. You're probably also feeling stuck with your problems, and you know you can't figure things out alone. Maybe you've had therapy before, and it sort of helped, but not enough, so you're naturally unsure about trying again. Maybe you've even tried talking to AI because it's so much less scary than opening up to a real person. But you know deep down that a relationship with an actual human being is part of what makes therapy work. I can understand all of your reservations, and I'd really like to work with you to help you achieve the change you want to see in your life.
I've been a therapist for 22 years, first in London, UK, where I'm from, and now in New York City. When I first started working as a therapist, I was frustrated that therapeutic results could be inconsistent, and I searched for a method that would help me be more helpful to more people. When I discovered intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP), an intensive, evidence-based approach that I mainly work with, it changed my life. I could see the positive results it had in my own life and in the lives of my patients. Now I had the tools to help more people achieve real and lasting change.
I'd love to meet with you for an initial session, kind of a trial therapy, in which we can get a good sense of how we might work together to resolve your issues and free your potential. Please reach out if you'd like to know more.
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
The brilliant thing about being a therapist is I get to make a real difference in people's lives. When people tell me how much they've changed as a result of our work together, it's so moving.
I'm always excited to hear from someone new who wants to book an initial session. If you're thinking about reaching out, I'll be glad to hear from you, too. You're struggling with something right now, and you may find it hard to have hope, but know that I have hope for you. Like the rest of us, you are so much more than your difficulties, and together we can help you free your potential.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
You're not alone. Most people are on the fence to some extent about going to therapy. Part of you really wants change, and wants help with that; the other part of you is nervous about dealing with things, or about opening up to a therapist. And the nervous part of you can come up with all kinds of reasons to put off therapy for now! This is totally normal. It's like when we decide it's time to get physically fit: we can come up with all kinds of excuses to put off exercising, too!
As a therapist I'm a bit like a personal trainer for your emotional well being. I'll support you, without judgement, as you explore the things you need to explore. And when part of you would rather avoid things, I'll be there to encourage you to do the work.
Together we can get you where you want to be.
Had a Negative Therapy Experience?
If you've had a previous negative experience of therapy it can make it really hard to start over with someone new. It already takes courage to start therapy and open up to someone you've just met. If a previous therapy went badly, or was even harmful, it takes all the more courage to try again. I really honor your willingness to give therapy another try, and I'll do my very best to be the best therapist I can be for you. We'll meet for an initial session and get a good sense of how we can work together. If the way I work doesn't feel like a good fit for you, I will honor your choice, and if I can, I'll make some recommendations of other therapists. It's so important that you find the therapist who's right for you.
Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed
A lot of people have this fear – particularly men, who often, in our culture, think they have to tough it out. But going to therapy does not mean you're weak or flawed. In fact the opposite is true.
First of all, who doesn't have flaws? We're all human. None of us is perfect – and if we were, wouldn't it be kind of boring?
Secondly, far from being a sign of weakness, it often takes real courage to admit we have problems and seek help. It's not easy to reach out to a therapist and open up about things that can be painful. That takes guts.
So, no, going to therapy does not mean you're weak or flawed: it means you're brave and admirable.
Expertise & Specialties
Age Groups I Work With
Adults
Groups I Work With
I have worked with a wide variety of people over the years, and I enjoy that aspect of my work: meeting so many different kinds of people. I also have a special interest in working with people who have experienced religious trauma or early loss. As an immigrant to the US from the UK, I also enjoy working with expats and understanding the particular stresses, frustrations, and grief we can face as we adjust to a new culture.
Therapy Services & Specialties
Concerns & Challenges Addressed
AnxietyDepressionGrief, Loss, and BereavementImmigration issuesRelationships and MarriageReligious IssuesSelf-EsteemSpirituality