Profile image of Amber  Pitoniak

Amber Pitoniak(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
New York
Anxiety -Chronic illness- Depression- Existential crisis & challenges- Loss, grief, and bereavement-Spirituality & religion-

Many health insurance plans reimburse 50-80% of session fees with out-of-network therapists. Learn if your plan qualifies.

AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

Amber Pitoniak, B.S., LMSW is a Licensed Master Social Worker in the State of New York. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degrees in psychology and neuroscience from Syracuse University and earned her Master's degree in social work, also from Syracuse University. She has worked within a diverse range of settings including academic and clinical research, non-profit organizations, mental health outpatient clinics, and private practice. She is completing her training to become a Certified Grief Counselor (GC-C) through the American Academy of Grief Counseling and American Institute of Healthcare Professionals.


Message to clients

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the State of New York and earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Psychology and Neuroscience from Syracuse University, where I also earned a Master of Social Work degree. As a licensed clinician and Grief Certified Counselor (GC-C) through the American Academy of Grief Counseling and American Institute of Health Care Professionals, I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care with a particular focus on issues related to grief, loss, and bereavement. I have additional experience in counseling adults managing chronic illness and have worked in a variety of settings including hospice, medical social work, community mental health clinics, private practice, and clinical research.

For those who are struggling to cope with the experience of loss or perhaps feel overwhelmed by the cognitive, affective, and behavioral manifestations of grief, it is important to know there is hope and healing amidst profound sadness and sorrow. Together, we will formulate an individualized and compassionate care plan to facilitate emotional and spiritual well-being, while learning how to navigate the complex challenges loss may present with grace. Acknowledging how daunting it can be to initiate therapy, I commend you for choosing to embark on your journey toward wellness and welcome you to schedule a consultation.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 9 years

Resilience Lab, Therapist, 2024 - Present

Syracuse University Falk College School of Social Work, Masters, 2017

Licensure

New York: 105322-1

Languages

English

Specialties

Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)

Chronic illness - Receiving a diagnosis; adjusting to lifestyle and medication changes; coping with related changes in mood, emotions, and relationships; managing symptoms and stress

Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life

Existential crisis & challenges - Supportive exploration of meaning and purpose in one’s life; finding one’s path in the face of existential anxiety, dread, and feelings of meaninglessness

Loss, grief, and bereavement - Emotionally preparing for the anticipated passing of a loved one; managing feelings and reactions to a death or loss of significance; support during the process of healing and acceptance

Spirituality & religion - Exploring beliefs and practices related to meaning, existence, and spiritual health and healing; enjoying a deeper felt connection with the spiritual dimension of one's life




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Seniors (65+)

Locations & Hours

Please note that at this time, I'm unable to accept Medicare or Medicaid plans.


Insurance

  • Aetna
  • Aetna International
  • Aetna Student Health Insurance
  • All Savers Insurance Company
  • Allied Benefit Systems
  • Cigna
  • Golden Rule Insurance Company
  • Harvard Pilgrim
  • Meritain Health
  • Nippon Life Benefits
  • Optum
  • Oxford Health Plans
  • Surest (formerly Bind)
  • Trustmark
  • UMR
  • United Healthcare
  • United Healthcare Shared Services
  • United Healthcare Student Health Plan
  • Wellfleet

Out-of-pocket fees

Get reimbursed for sessions with Amber Pitoniak

Many health insurance plans reimburse 50-80% of session fees with out-of-network therapists. Learn if your health insurance plan qualifies.

  • Individual sessions:$175 (60min)