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Nicholas Samstag(He/Him/His)

(He/Him/His)
Psychologist, PhD
New York
Anxiety - Couples counseling- Depression- Existential crisis & challenges- Life transitions- Relationship issues-
AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

Dr. Nicholas Samstag is a Clinical Psychologist located in New York, NY. Dr. Samstag works with young adults and adults, including teenagers and parents. Many of his clients begin therapy because they want to understand their intense emotional reactions. These reactions, which might appear as feelings of sadness, anxiety, depression, fear, or overwhelm, stem from early life experience. They may become exacerbated during times of change and may negatively impact relationships.

Dr. Samstag’s approach to therapy leverages clients’ dreams, free associations, and unhindered thoughts. His goal is to uncover deeply held beliefs that tie clients to specific emotional reactions, which he does through psychodynamic and psychoanalytic therapy practices. He helps clients uncover inner narratives, through which they can recognize more authentic versions of themselves. Working with Dr. Samstag, clients learn how to lean into their unconscious so they can enhance their daily lives, including their relationships.

Dr. Samstag earned a PhD in Clinical Psychology from the Derner Institute at Adelphi University. He has over 20 years of experience and holds a certificate in psychoanalysis from the William Alanson White Institute.


Message to clients

While I am always engaged by the patient’s presenting problem, I also encourage discussion on what lies beneath. I work with patients to get down to the bottom of what is yet not known. It is the struggles of our unconscious that often interfere with our daily function in living, loving, and working.

As human beings and members of a complex society, we are currently experiencing immensely trying times. Although we live in a free and open society in which all kinds of information are literally at our fingertips, there are definite downsides. Collectively and individually, we are still besieged by the effects of COVID-19, harrowing local, national, and international events, frightening political divisions, environmental crises, and the impact that social media have on ourselves and our children.

Sometimes a change in life events, even happy ones such as becoming a parent, can awaken some feelings that you had not noticed previously. It's a sign of strength and resolve (not of weakness) to ask for help when you need it.

During these times it is important that you trust your instincts and not only seek out help from a licensed healthcare professional but from someone who has achieved the highest level of clinical research and clinical training. I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and a certificate in psychoanalysis from the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology representing precisely that standard.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 28 years

Nicholas Samstag, Ph.D., PC, Psychological Services, President

William Alanson White Institute, Certificate in Psychoanalysis, 2002
Adelphi, Derner Institute of Advanced Psychological Studies, Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, 1996
New York University, M.A. in Psychology , 1990
Columbia University, M.A. in Classics, 1982

Licensure

New York: 013734

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)

Couples counseling - Addressing relationship challenges and life transitions; strengthening communication and feelings of security, desire, connection, and love

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

Life transitions - Coping with difficult or impactful life changes, such as moving to a new area, relationship transitions, child rearing, or career changes; learning self-care to better manage resulting stress

Relationship issues - Understanding one’s wants and needs in relationships; exploring patterns of interaction, addressing concerns, and strengthening satisfaction in relationships and dating




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Parents
  • Seniors (65+)
  • Teenagers (13-18)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours


Insurance

Nicholas Samstag is not in-network with any insurances.

Read about the benefits of seeing an out-of-network provider here.


Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$475 (45min)
  • Sliding scale:$375 - $475

Book a Free Initial Consultation

The practice will call you for a free 10min phone call to discuss your needs and ensure a match!

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