Dr. Julia Lynford Licensed Psychologist

During a first session, I like to let the patient tell me about their life, what has brought them to therapy, and if there are any goals they would like to accomplish in therapy. First sessions should be about getting to know each other, and deciding together whether the fit is good and the patient feels comfortable. I never feel the need to rush information or learn everything about someone in a first session; trust needs to be earned, and over time the relationship will lead us to a place where real work can be accomplished.

My approach to therapy is largely psychodynamic. This means that I typically help patients gain insight into their problems, conflicts, and emotions by exploring the past, present, and any associations that come to mind during sessions. I like to follow my patients' thought processes and help point out connections, explore areas of conflict, and help shift perspectives if necessary. I work from an attachment-oriented perspective, meaning that I pay a lot of attention to the relationship between myself and the patient. I find it essential in treatment to have a strong therapeutic relationship, especially during times of distress and when working on relationships in the patient's life. If, however, it becomes clear in treatment that someone needs help with developing coping skills for difficult emotions or situations, I am happy to assist in skills coaching as well.

I always tell people, especially those skeptical or hesitant about therapy, that progress is not a straight line, there are naturally going to be bumps in the road. I think it's normal to expect big changes quickly when starting a new treatment, and sometimes that's the case! However, more frequently I see that progress happens in waves, and sometimes you move backwards before moving forwards - and that's completely normal. Therapy can be both challenging and joyful at times, and my hope is that the collaboration of working through both the hard and happy times brings about the changes that are desired in a safe and comfortable environment.

• New York, Licensed Psychologist, 024779

My experiences have varied over the course of my training and time working. While my earlier work experiences centered on treating children, I have found now that I truly enjoy and find meaning working with adults of all ages. I have practiced in many types of treatment centers and locations - my university's psychological services center, hospitals (Jacobi Medical Center, Sagamore Children's Psychiatric Center), community health centers (New York Psychoanalytic Society and Institute), schools (PS 163 The Alfred E. Smith School, Pathways Strategic Teaching Center), and a private practice in Manhattan (Ellis Psychology). Throughout the evolution of my work history, working with individuals in a private practice setting has been especially rewarding, as I am able to truly help my patients form a strong attachment and find growth and healing through exploration of the past and present, in addition to navigating through both difficult and joyful moments.