Michael Vitro, Ph.D.

As a licensed Psychologist in New York State, I offer individual psychotherapy, both online and in-person, to adults who are navigating emotional distress, seeking to make meaningful life changes, or striving to overcome the various obstacles we all encounter. I specialize in helping those who are struggling with substance use that has become a problem at work, at home, or in their relationships. I also work with individuals experiencing depression, trauma (both childhood and adult), bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD-related concerns, grief and loss, major life transitions, relationship challenges, and anger management.

My experience extends to a diverse range of individuals, including college students, those facing significant medical challenges, and Veterans, encompassing all racial, cultural, gender, sexual, and physical abilities. Regardless of who you are or how you identify, I welcome you into my practice with warmth and genuine curiosity, aiming to create a safe and supportive space—the very foundation of our work together.

My approach is deeply rooted in well-established and evidence-based therapeutic methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. I also draw from an integrative range of other research-driven modalities, such as evolutionary perspectives, to tailor our sessions to your unique needs.

A key focus for me is understanding the adaptive nature of your current coping skills and helping you refine them in ways that truly serve you. I believe it's important to embrace difficult thoughts and emotions as a natural part of the human experience, while also addressing how negative perceptions might be impacting your life.

Holistic care is central to the recovery process, and my aim is to empower you to achieve lasting positive changes. Beyond specific clinical techniques, I place immense value on building and nurturing a strong therapeutic relationship with you. Through this collaborative journey, I strive to facilitate self-discovery and personal growth, encouraging self-exploration through thoughtful, and at times challenging, dialogue. Ultimately, my hope is to help you gain a deeper understanding of your unmet needs and foster a profound connection to your authentic self.

My academic journey led me to a doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Texas Tech University (TTU). During my time at TTU, I gained valuable experience as a behavioral health specialist at the University Medical Center, working within both the Cancer Center and the Internal Medicine Clinic. I also provided individual therapy through TTU's student counseling center and the community clinic. Furthermore, I was trained in the psychological assessment of intellectual functioning, Autism-Spectrum Disorder, and ADHD at Driskoll and Bates Psychology and the Starcare Specialty Healthcare System. My doctoral clinical internship was completed at the Hefner VA Medical Center in Salisbury, NC, where my focus was on Substance Use Disorders and co-occurring diagnoses such as Major Depressive Disorder, Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder, anxiety disorders, and Bipolar Disorder, alongside various personality assessments.

In my professional career, I have served as a Staff Psychologist within the New Jersey VA Healthcare System (in their Intensive Outpatient Substance Use Disorders program) and the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System (in their Substance Abuse Recovery Treatment Program). In addition to my clinical work, I am also a part-time faculty member at CCNY and Mercy University.

Please feel free to reach out so we can begin the process of growth, acceptance, and change, paving the way for a brighter and more fulfilling future for you.