Description
Working as an artist can be very challenging and at times lonely. Do you ever feel like you are lacking a community of fellow artists who understand your perspective and the sacrifices that come with creating art? Our support group will consist of professional/aspiring artists of all types (visual, performing, etc.). We will build a safe community of like-minded creative individuals, where we can discuss any issues and feelings related to living as an artist in New York City. We will be able to rely on one another for resources and both therapeutic and practical support.
Co-Led by Ross Schwaber, LMSW, a piano teacher and former professional opera singer, and Dr. Mary McCluskey, LCSW, DSW, a visual artist and the author of two children's books. She is also trained in trauma-informed art therapy, which will be utilized in the group.
Group Therapist
The Empowerment Opportunity uses an integrative team approach. Mary received her MSW from Columbia University and her doctorate from The University of Pennsylvania. Mary specializes in treating trauma survivors. Alena Kwong received her MSW from New York University and is also a Reiki Master, nutrition and wellness coach and a certified yoga teacher. Alena creatively combines modalities to holistically address all areas of a person's life. Molly Bagli, received her MSW from New York University and before joining the practice worked with children and adolescents in school settings. Nicoleen Prince-Burrell also received her MSW from NYU and has a background in business which gives her a special understanding of people dealing with professional stressors. We all teach self compassion to clients.
Clients seek therapy with us to address various topics including: a need to be perfect, trauma, identity issues, attachment issues, and feeling alone. We are passionate about serving women, new parents, children and adolescents, recent graduates and the LGBTQ community. Mary recently published an Adlerian children's book called The Leader of The Parade which is also used as a therapeutic tool for children.
We integrate psychodynamic therapy, Adlerian approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy and holistic approaches such as breath work to help connect the body and mind. With respectful curiosity, we help facilitate personal growth and encourage you to look at your life in different ways.
Our style is collaborative, respectful, warm and integrative. When clients first start therapy, we aim to establish a trusting relationship and safe environment where clients can speak about anything. We let the client set the pace on how much they want to disclose and when. Taking time to build trust is a healthy skill. We genuinely look forward meeting you and helping you live the best version of yourself.
