Sheila  Torres
Vetted

Sheila Torres

She/Her/Hers

Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW-R Practice: Skypiatrist Specialties Insurance & Fees Locations
New York Accepting Online
Brooklyn Not Accepting In-person
Updated January 22, 2024

Specialties & Expertise

  • Addiction
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Loss, grief, and bereavement
  • Trauma
  • Women's issues

Professional statement

Sheila Torres is an LCSW-R with a practice in Garden City, NY. She grew up in a large family in Manhasset L.I., where she and her siblings learned the importance of looking out for one another. This early lesson in empathy laid the ground work for her decision to pursue a career in mental health. Sheila earned her undergraduate degree in Human Services from California State University Fullerton and her Master's in Social Work from Fordham University.

For over 20 years, Sheila has treated clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relationship troubles and transitional challenges. She began her career in the field of addiction where she learned how families are impacted by one person's illness, whether it be from substance abuse or another mental health condition. This fueled her interest in working with couples as she recognized that healing cannot be complete unless you treat the entire system.

Sheila draws from an array of theoretical approaches including CBT, Family System Theory, and Mindfulness-based practices. "I start where my client is, and gently move them towards making changes to improve their lives. I help them identify their negative thought patterns and examine the errors in their cognitions. With this new awareness, clients can utilize Mindfulness practices to develop healthier behaviors and improve their interpersonal connections.”

As the pandemic presented challenges to those struggling with mental health issues, Sheila came to appreciate the benefits of on-line therapy. “Being able to provide continuation of care through remote sessions was critical to their well-being.” Sheila also found that this new method of delivering treatment removed obstacles that often prevented clients from seeking help. “I find that clients are more consistent in their treatment because it’s much easier to sign-on remotely than it is to travel to my office.”


Message to clients

“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right” – Henry Ford

As an experienced therapist, this quote incapsulates what I’ve come to understand: Change can only happen when you believe in the possibility and trust that it can happen to you. In my career, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to witness clients come to this understanding, embrace change and transform their lives.

In my work, I start by providing a safe, judgement-free space where clients can reflect upon their current struggles. As I encourage them to explore their past and uncover the source of their conflicts, I help them identify how their thought patterns are contributing to their troubles. I never tire of the “A-ha” moment when they recognize their power and find the courage to make life-changing decisions.

If you’re struggling in your life, I can help. If anxiety and depression weight you down, if you’re seeking assistance with your personal growth and development, if you need help in resolving conflict in your relationships, you can call on me. I’d be happy to help you achieve meaningful, positive long-lasting change and improve the quality of your life.

So congratulations for taking the first step towards living your best life! Seeking therapy can be scary and overwhelming. Prioritizing yourself might even feel unnatural. I’m so pleased that you are thinking about yourself and I hope that you will be brave enough to take the next step, by reaching out and making that call.


Specialties

Addiction - Coping with emotional discomfort and suffering; reducing or abstaining from unwanted behaviors such as unhealthy gambling or shopping

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

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

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

Trauma - Coping and healing after threatening or scary events, such as witnessing accidents or experiencing sexual, verbal, emotional, or physical abuse

Women's issues - Therapy tailored to common concerns among women; providing a safe and understanding space to address life challenges, stressors, and questions around identity as a woman




Clientele

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

Insurance

  • Aetna
  • Aetna Student Health Insurance
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Optum
  • Oscar Health
  • Oxford Health Plans
  • United Healthcare
  • United Healthcare Student Health Plan

Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions: $200 (60min)
  • Sliding scale: $150 - $200

Location(s)

Online Sessions (New York)
Accepting new clients online
Currently Available Times
  • Morning (Before 10am)
  • Daytime (10am - 1pm)
  • Afternoon (1pm - 5pm)
  • Evening (After 5pm)
  • Weekends
Regular Hours
  • Mon 10 AM-8PM
  • Tue 10 AM-8PM
  • Wed 10 AM-8PM
  • Thu 10 AM-8PM
  • Fri 10 AM-12 PM
  • Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed

Brooklyn practice
169 wythe ave #104, Brooklyn , New York 11249
Not accepting new clients in-person
Currently Available Times
  • Morning (Before 10am)
  • Daytime (10am - 1pm)
  • Afternoon (1pm - 5pm)
  • Evening (After 5pm)
  • Weekends
Regular Hours
  • Mon 10am - 8:30pm
  • Tue 10am - 8:30pm
  • Wed 10am - 8:30pm
  • Thu 10am - 8:30pm
  • Fri 10am - 8:30pm
  • Sat Please inquire about hours
  • Sun Please inquire about hours

Work and Education

Years of Experience: 30 years

Nassau Psychology, Psychotherapist, 2019 - 2022
Seafield Services, Mineola, Therapist, 2019 - 2009
Private Practice, Therapist, 2004 - 2008
Flushing Hospital, Case Manager/Therapist, 2001 - 2004
Armes Acres, Case Manager/Therapist, 1995 - 2000
Elmhurst Hospital, Case Manager/Therapist, 1994 - 1995

Fordam University, Masters of Social Work, 1994
Calidornis State University ,Fullerton, BS in Human Services, 1991


Licensure

New York: 074033


Languages

English