As a licensed clinical social worker and sex therapist, I specialize in working with queer individuals and those who have experienced complicated and relational trauma. With extensive training and supervision, I support clients struggling with symptoms related to traumatic events that impact their relationships and quality of life. Drawing from four decades of experience in NYC, I’ve developed unique ways to find internal peace in this dynamic city.
My passion for this work stems from my own profound journey and commitment to healing through the therapeutic relationship. I received my Masters’s degree in Sexuality Studies from San Francisco State University, where my research focused on evading lessons about pleasure for queer and homeless young adults. With nearly two decades of experience working with LGBTQ individuals and young adults through various organizations (Hetrick-Martin Institute, The Center, Larkin Street Youth Services, and Day One NY), I’m committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for all clients to explore their unique needs and desires.
At Manhattan Mindful, we prioritize creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their authentic selves. Our sex-positive approach fosters healthy communication, connection, and pleasure in all types of relationships, including those in polyamorous or open arrangements. Let’s work together toward your healing and growth.
As a Clinical Supervisor, I provide relational, in-depth, and psychoanalytic-leaning supervision, focusing on developing clinical skills, offering support, formulating and monitoring treatment goals, and addressing ethical dilemmas. Together, we navigate personality dynamics, power imbalances, and diverse dimensions, always centering the humanity of both supervisee and supervisor. As a queer and Latinx supervisor, I strive to create an affirming space for queer and POC communities, bringing awareness of my light-skin privileges to foster inclusivity and equity. With sensitivity and cultural humility, I aim to make supervision a transformative journey, empowering you to grow professionally with authenticity and resilience.
Professional Affiliations
- Executive Committee for ICP’s Psychotherapy Center for Gender & Sexuality Division https://icpnyc.org/training/pcgs/
- World Professional Association for Transgender Health member https://www.wpath.org/provider/13503
- Member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation https://isstdworld.isst-d.org/network/members/profile?UserKey=c88cd394-0520-4d33-b619-018adc2163c1
- Member of Latino Therapist Action Network https://ltan.org/listing/syd-seifert/
- Adjunct Professor, Hunter College
- Women & Gender Studies
Treatment Approaches
- Psychodynamic
- Mindfulness
- Relational
- EMDR
- Internal Family Systems
- Somatic Approaches
- Creative Arts
- Advanced Trauma Treatment for PTSD, CPTSD, and Dissociative Disorders
Specialization
- LGBTQIA+ community
- Genderqueer Identities
- PTSD, CPTSD & Dissociative Disorders
- Sexual assault and intimate partner violence
- Sexual dissatisfaction & Pleasure
- Transgender & Gender Expansive Children/Adolescents
- Guilt and shame
- Relationships and conflict
- Attachment-based trauma
Training
- EMDR Trauma Institute & Child Trauma Institute – EMDR International Association Approved (Levels I & II)
- Internal Family Systems IFS Institute
- Level I and Specialized training in IFS for Anxiety & Trauma
- Sex Therapy Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy & Center for Sex and Culture SFSU
- Transgender and Gender Expansive Children & Adolescents Ackerman Institute for the Family Gender & Family Project
- Integrative Sex and Couples Work Certification with Dr. Tammy Nelson
- Emotionally Focused Therapy: Attachment-Based Work for Couples in Crisis with Dr. Sue Johnson
- Advanced Trauma Treatment (CAPT) International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP)
Education
MSW, Clinical Concentration Silberman School of Social Work 2014
MA, Sexuality Studies, San Francisco State University 2007
BA, Gender & Sexuality Studies St. Lawrence University 2004