Alexander Beznes, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist based in New York City with over a decade of experience, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and relationship difficulties.
Individual Psychotherapy
Therapy is a space full of potential and possibility. I approach the work with a focus on understanding your individual experience and perspective. I have an attentive presence and bring a genuine attitude to the room. Over time, we’ll develop a mutual and trusting dynamic with each other that will enable us to do deep work.
My practice is informed by a variety of diverse modalities and philosophies but primarily revolves around the significance of relationships in our lives and gaining insight into our patterns of coping with the world. Part of the process involves helping you get in touch with your body through somatic techniques in order to build awareness, improve self-regulation, and work through past trauma.
Couples Counseling
From a foundational standpoint, the principles that guide my individual practice are consistent with my approach to couples counseling. However, the focus shifts to deepening your relationship with your partner rather than your own individual experience.
A substantial part of the work is discovering the relational patterns and moves within your relationship. We’ll examine how familial dynamics influence the ways in which we’ve learned to get our needs met and how this may be leading to conflict and impasse. I seek to bring you closer to the present experience with one another by highlighting your attempts to connect and achieving clarity by honing your communication and emotional expression.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that has been found to be highly effective in the treatment of trauma and wide variety of other difficulties. I will provide a safe framework for you to work through disturbing memories by guiding you through bilateral stimulation (BLS) like eye movements or tapping. Applying BLS helps regulate the emotional intensity of traumatic experiences and facilitates deeper processing. The goal of EMDR is to reduce emotional distress, dispel negative beliefs about yourself, and restore your inner strength and resilience.
Pottery Workshops for Refugees
In the summer of 2024, I started hosting a pottery workshop and support group for Ukrainian refugees who were experiencing isolation and loss of identity. Hearing the stories of profound alienation and disillusionment in the wake of the war inspired me to create a place where refugees could have the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges and find communal healing. I named the workshop, “Eyes Fear, Hands Do” after a popular Slavic proverb that captures the spirit of empowerment. It would be an honor to share the rich tradition of pottery with you and show you how working with a forgiving medium like clay can give you the freedom to experiment and play.
Consultations
Taking the first step to reach out can be daunting whether you’re looking to begin treatment for the first time or have prior experience with therapy. A consultation can be a great way to get a sense of how it would be like to speak with me about your current difficulties and intentions for therapy. I’m looking forward to hearing how the process has been for you and learning more about you.
You can get a sense of my availability and schedule a free phone or video consultation through Calendly.
