Clinical Psychologist
Hello, I'm Dr. Jorge Alvarenga, and I'm a New York State licensed clinical psychologist.
It's been my pleasure to work with adults of various social, sexual, and gender identities in individual, couples, and group psychotherapy. I truly believe that nurturing our mental well-being is so important, especially with everything happening here and in the world today. My goal is to help you understand yourself better, to explore what brings you joy, as well as sorrow, and to support you in making the changes you desire to reach your life goals. Whether you're navigating a mood disorder, anxiety, relationship challenges, work and academic stress, substance use, trauma, or life's transitions, I'm here to offer understanding, insight, and fresh perspectives that can make a real difference.
In our time together, we'll work as a team to set goals that will help you live a more fulfilling life and gently address any pain, conflict or past trauma. My main approach is psychodynamic therapy, which involves open and heartfelt conversations regarding the impact of the past on the present - whether in the spheres of work, school, family, and/or relationships. In this way we arrive at insights, heal old wounds, and find practical solutions to face the future in ways that are different and might emerge in our work together. I also integrate other approaches, such as DBT, relational psychotherapy, and humanistic psychotherapy, to best meet your unique needs.
As a native New Yorker with parents from El Salvador, I have a deep understanding of the immigrant experience. I've personally experienced the challenges of a family establishing themselves in a new land. I am also keenly aware of the threats facing our immigrant and new American communities today. I've navigated the complexities of a bicultural upbringing and the generational conflicts that can arise. (One example being that of having parents who do not understand the culture in which you are living daily, while you are prematurely placed in the position of translating “America” and English to your parents.) If you're facing immigration or acculturation issues, from any and all sides of these divides, please know that I'm here to listen, support and help you chart your course through these sometimes rough waters.
I earned my doctorate from Long Island University - Brooklyn Campus. I am the first in my family to graduate from college. I've had the privilege of working in large Manhattan hospitals and college counseling centers, where I've supported individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, substance abuse, and trauma.
I would be honored to hear about your aspirations and how we might work together to achieve them. Please feel free to reach out, and let's see if we're a good fit. I look forward to connecting with you.