My approach is rooted in cutting edge, evidence-based therapeutic interventions that have been thoroughly researched and proven to be effective.
While Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) will be the centerpiece of our work together, I also incorporate elements from other treatment modalities, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Attachment-Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Mindfulness. This ensures we can explore different aspects of your experiences and help you achieve a better understanding of yourself and long-lasting changes.
Your level of comfort, desired goals, and experiences inform our process.
We work together as a team and psychological treatment is tailored to your specific needs. My style is warm, non-judgemental and, most importantly, accepting of you and where you stand in your journey. Whether you feel ready or not, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Even though I earned my doctoral degree in 2007 and I have been practicing psychology for the past 16 years, I consider myself to be a perpetual student.
My mission to be the best possible therapist for you drives me to invest time and effort into staying at the forefront of the field. I am continuously seeking to enhance my skills and deepen my understanding.
I regularly immerse myself in the latest research, participating in advanced courses, and attending highly specialized trainings.
I enjoy reading psychology-related books and listening to podcasts during my free time outside of the office. I want to ensure that my knowledge is not only up-to-date but also comprehensive. This way I can provide you with the most innovative approaches that best address your unique needs.
Have you been able to spot my perfectionist tendencies and need to overachieve? I understand what it feels like to strive for the highest standard and continuous growth. My personal experiences have given me an insight into the demands you may place on yourself. I have learned how to balance my professional goals with family life and self-care.
I was born in Brazil and lived in the United States as a child, while both of my parents pursued their doctoral degrees also in Psychology. First, I lived in Illinois and later relocated to New Jersey. I returned to Brazil during elementary school and came back again to the U.S. as a young adult.
I earned a scholarship to study abroad and participated in a Fellowship Program in the Stony Brook Attachment Lab. During that time, I completed my doctoral thesis in Attachment Theory under Dr. Everett Water’s mentorship. My labmate introduced me to my husband and I eventually relocated to Stony Brook, New York. I really enjoy living in this area.
My journey from Brazil to the United States allowed me to experience directly the differences in cultures and how it impacts our behaviors and overall sense of well-being.
Simple aspects of daily life, such as celebration of holidays, getting together with friends, or going out to restaurants, revealed the role that culture plays in shaping unspoken rules that guide social interactions.
These lessons are invaluable and highlight the significance of each person’s unique cultural background, independent of where they came from. This experience has made me more sensitive to cultural diversity and how people’s belief systems shape their understanding of themselves, others, and the world.
Imagine if we met outside the therapy room; you’d find that I’m the kind of person who enjoys getting to know different people and their stories. If given the opportunity, I would love to hear what you have been through and the reasons you are reading this page.
I have a genuine interest in your experiences and how you got here.
Your thoughts, emotions, the way you handle problems, and interact with others are all important aspects of your life and overall well-being. I am dedicated to providing a safe space where your story can unfold and be heard. It’s not just a professional commitment but a personal one as well.
In addition to being New Yorks’ first Beck Institute certified psychologist, I have 16 years of experience in the world of Psychology.
To create a safe and nurturing space where you feel valued, accepted, and empowered.
Your story matters and your strengths are honored. In therapy, you can expect empathy, respect, trust, and collaboration.
An integrative fusion of CBT and other evidence-based therapeutic interventions including DBT, Attachment-Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Vanessa Gomes, PhD
New York Licensed Psychologist
Beck Institute CBT Certified Clinician
