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Vetted

Theresa Kimm(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW
New YorkColoradoNew JerseyPennsylvania
Depression-Substance use-Trauma-Burnout-Asian American Issues-

See Theresa's Details for:

AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & FeesTestimonials

Professional statement

As a first-generation immigrant and a clinical social worker in private practice for over ten years, I'm deeply committed to alleviating emotional suffering in young professionals. Untreated trauma and emotional pain leads to psychological imbalances, resulting in a cascade of challenges such as problematic relationships, unfulfilling careers, self-blame, shame, distorted self-esteem, substance abuse, and a pervasive sense that life is merely to be endured.

Furthermore, I feel that it is necessary to address the impact of the macro on the individual. The Covid pandemic which took the world by surprise, left many of us feeling unsafe and uncertain. And ever since, we have been confronted with crisis after crisis from climate change, deep-seated political divisions, and the ever-present threat of violence on a personal and global scale. I also do not ignore the negative impact of technology—particularly smartphones and social media, leaching into mental well being. Resulting mix of anxiety, depression, burnout, and confusion about personal values and purpose need to be emotionally processed and understood.

Over the years, I have developed a therapeutic style of my own that is direct--when necessary I take an active approach in encouraging my clients to identify and clarify their blind spots and pain points that kept them stuck. And, my skill as an active listener and the ability to deeply empathize peels away emotional defenses, revealing the vulnerability and emotional wounds underneath. I also draw from my personal journey of healing from childhood traumas to instill hope and remind clients of the shared human condition.

At present, I am seeing clients virtually. In addition to New York, I am also licensed to practice in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Colorado.


Message to clients

I take a fluid, pragmatic approach to my work, emphasizing your well-being over rigid adherence to a specific theoretical framework. My priority is to employ whatever methods prove effective in helping you feel better and gain control over your future, and the confidence to rewrite your past. Understand that emotional healing and growth involve getting into the weeds--taking an honest look into the deep recesses of your mind that you'd rather pretend doesn't exist. But rest assured, I will accompany you with firm affection and unconditional regard for your autonomy as a human being. My role is to support you on this transformative journey, drawing from my education, the knowledge I've gained from countless hours of sitting with clients, and my own deeply lived life. I firmly believe that you both deserve and possess the capacity to live a genuinely fulfilling life.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 13 years

Private Practice, Owner/Practitioner
Long Island Jewish Medical Center, Resident Mental Health Program, Senior Social Worker/Psychotherapist
Long Island Consultation Center, Psychotherapist
Harlem United Community AIDS Agency, Social Worker

New York University, MSW, 2011
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, BA, 1993

Licensure

New York: 083579 - Colorado: 09929137 - New Jersey: 44SC06232700 - Pennsylvania: CW023907

Languages

English

Specialties

Depression - Following a significant loss, such as unemployment or a breakup, the ability to "bounce back" might not always feel possible. What's considered "normal" grieving can persist and escalate into depression, characterized by a collection of symptoms that impair daily functioning and overall quality of life.

Substance use - The key distinguishing factor between "normal" use of alcohol and cannabis and problematic use (or dependence) is whether the individual is using these substances to seek relief from or to alter their ongoing low mood.

Trauma - Traumatic experience, characterized by intense fear and terror, can leave lasting effects without proper emotional validation and support to understand what happened. Childhood abuse, in particular, often leads to enduring consequences that negatively impact adult relationships and career. Similarly, traumatic events in adulthood can have long-lasting effect on mental health, causing persistent symptoms like anxiety, intrusive thoughts and alienation.

Burnout - High-achieving young professionals may not always recognize that their feelings of apathy, dissatisfaction, and hopelessness stem from an unsustainable connection to work and success, traits often praised by their parents and society.

Asian American Issues - Conflict between first generation immigrant parents and their adult children manifests in unspoken resentments, anger and the pressure to live up to parental expectation results in guilt and shame, and symptoms of anxiety and depression.




Clientele

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

Locations & Hours


Insurance

  • Aetna (in-network in NY, CO, NJ, PA)
  • Aetna Student Health Insurance (in-network in NY, CO, NJ, PA)

Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$250 (50min)
  • Sliding scale:$150 - $250
  • Initial session:$250 (50min)

Additional session information

Out-of-network billing options

This provider can support you in getting reimbursement from your insurance company if you are seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Here are the out-of-network billing options they provide:

  • Super billing
Payment options
  • Check
  • Credit Card
  • Debit Card
  • PayPal
  • Zelle
Session frequency

Frequency of sessions this provider offers to see clients once you are an established client.

  • Weekly
  • Every other week
  • As needed
Therapist's note

Please contact me to discuss the fee.


Client testimonials

"Theresa called me right on time and asked many questions! We went longer than the 10 minute time frame, and it did not feel rushed. She truly wanted to understand the issues that were bothering me and figure out if we’d be a good match. I really appreciate how in-depth she went in our initial phone call."
- Zencare client December 2019
"Theresa was very patient and kind. I felt like it was a safe space for me to open up to her without judgement. The call went over 10 minutes and I could feel that she cared about my wellbeing whether or not I decided to work with her afterwards."
- Zencare client October 2022

Book a Free Initial Consultation

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

This provider has no upcoming call times available.