Greenpoint Location (Telehealth only)

Adults, Couples, Families, & Children

In my therapeutic practice, I blend psychodynamic and attachment theories with pragmatic behavioral approaches to treatment. My understanding of the human experience is informed by my studies in metaphysics and literature.

As a therapist, I strive to create an environment where patients can discover how they came to this place in their lives, and harness that new understanding of their foundations in order to move forward and cope with - even shape - the world around them as they live. This is the path whether they’re struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction, trauma, sexual issues, gender related issues, or any other symptoms; my patients learn that they need not be defined by their diagnoses.

In addition to my work with individuals, I help couples untangle their miscommunications and conflicts to regain the underlying understanding, love, attraction, and respect that first drew them together. This often involves examination of each person’s attachment style and method of giving and receiving messages of love.

In my work with families, I strive to help parents and children repair or re-establish essential healthy parent-child attachments.  I assist parents in building a common sense household structure to regain a sense of calm and order, with respect and love for each family member. I also have years of experience navigating the NYC school system to advocate for children (including, special needs, twice exceptional, or neuro-typical) and ensure that they have all the resources and accommodations that they need to flourish.

My varied background gives me a unique perspective from which to address my patients; having worked with a wide variety of populations as a therapist, but also in the literary world, as well as studying philosophy, history, and the classics.

Karen G. Costa, LCSW has a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and the History of Math and Science from St. John's College (the Great Books Program) and a Master's in Clinical Social Work from New York University.  She has numerous publications related to the relationship between Mental Health and Spirituality.