Human-First
Counseling Psychology

At Stratyner & Associates, we follow the Carefrontation model of treatment, a human-first approach developed by Dr. Harris Stratyner to treat addiction in a more compassionate way. Over time, it became clear that Carefrontation can be used to successfully help patients navigate other challenges in life as well.

The foundation of the Carefrontation philosophy is treating patients with unconditional kindness, respect, and empathy—never the negativity or shame involved in “tough love” methods. Patients are simultaneously given the tools they need to heal and be accountable for their own progress, which builds confidence and new patterns of resilience. We discovered that the values behind the Carefrontation philosophy really define who we are as psychologists: we are people first, above all else, and we regard our patients as such.

See how the Carefrontation approach compares to the traditional / confrontational approach below.

Carefrontation Model

  • Patient-centered approach
  • Unconditionally positive and kind
  • A relaxed, non-judgemental environment
  • Deep respect for your culture
  • Deep respect for your identity
  • Integrate treatment with other medical professionals as needed
  • Dynamic solutions and strength-based tools

Traditional/Confrontational Model

  • Negative, “tough love” approach that puts patients under stress
  • Clinical, cold environment
  • Inherently biased
  • Lack of empathy
  • Psychologist is removed from personal interaction
  • One-size-fits-all treatment used for most patients
  • Rigid strategies and rules
VS

Our Approach to Counseling Psychology

The Carefrontation model is the foundation of our practice. We believe that the foundation of good therapy is having authentic, human relationships with our patients. Beyond that, we further build counseling treatment using three guiding pillars. Treatment always differs based on a patient’s needs and the strategy and solutions we develop together based on their unique situation. Based on need, we can work closely and can offer referrals to other providers (e.g. psychiatrists, other therapists, primary care providers, medical specialists, neuropsychologists, even lawyers) so that all of the patient’s needs are met.

When we work together, we may engage in:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) involves restructuring patterns of thinking from “would, should, and could” to the more productive, “will, shall and can.” We then identify tools that can create positive change to patients’ lives. Treatment may also include dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), which involves a variety of mindfulness exercises and emotional regulation techniques.

Strength-Based Focus

Counseling psychology emphasizes strength-based, humanistic, positive psychology approaches, including motivational psychology. We recognize that an individual patient is complex and will encounter challenges at every stage of life. Our goal is to give each patient the tools they need to create positive patterns and habits that will serve them for a lifetime.

Concierge Treatment

As a concierge practice, we strive to create a therapy that is tailored to each patient. Sessions vary in length and content from patient to patient; we may cover mindfulness, coping skills, or other techniques. We believe strongly that in order to help you, we must be as available and flexible to you as possible. That means that we can set up last-minute appointments outside of scheduled hours. We understand that life can’t always be scheduled.

Let’s get acquainted

Schedule a time to talk about how we can help you. Our extensive medical and psychological network outside our own doctoral-level psychological experience allows us to provide a complete plan for effective treatment and counseling. In our first discussion, we’ll explore how to proceed. Contact us by submitting the form here and we will be in touch.

    Location

    Conveniently located in the heart of Manhattan.

    Stay Safe

    In response to recent COVID-19 concerns, we are writing
    to assure our patients that we are taking the
    recommended precautions.

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