If you are struggling with your mental health then you may be on the lookout for some form of mental health counseling. At times it can feel a little like a full time job trying to find the right counseling for you, there are many different types available. It could be that you are after talking therapy, group therapy, or even art therapy. Each one has their own list of pros and cons, if you choose the wrong one then it can prove more of a hindrance than something helpful.
One of the options you have is Manhattan Mental Health Counseling (MMHC), based in New York City. They were founded in 2015 and are a mid – large psychotherapy office with around 80 licensed therapists being based there.
They are incredibly proud of themselves for bridging the gap between expensive boutique counseling and affordable sessions covered by insurance companies. We have created an honest review of the MMHC, so be sure to check it out below.
Who They Are
Manhattan Mental Health Counseling (MMHC) is a person-centred alternative to the typical therapists office. You won’t find a cold, clinical office anywhere in site with MMHC. you will be greeted with warmth and love as soon as you walk through the door. Many people are afraid of counseling and feel judged, however, not here. They use a cleverly thought of matching process to find a suitable therapist/counselor for their patients and clients. This is based on personalities and outcomes, rather than just what type of counseling they need.
The founder of MMHC is Natalie Buchwald, LMHC. Having studied all over the world, she holds many qualifications in psychology and mental health counseling. Natalie decided to open this clinic due to the lack of skilled counselors and therapists accepting health insurance. When therapists apply for a job at MMHC, Natalie will personally go through the hiring process, vetting each application personally.
Services Offered
When you think of counseling, what do you envision? Sitting on a chaise lounge spouting your deepest, darkest secrets. That is what most people think about when they consider counseling, however, it is not like that at all. The good news is, MMHC doesn’t just offer your typical and generic counseling services. They have a comprehensive ‘menu’ of treatment options for clients to go through. This is great and has proved to be a major success to those who need more than just a ‘venting’ session.
The practice offers a huge range of both evidence-based therapies and holistic treatments, for adults and teens. Patients and clients can access these services through in person sessions or via telehealth. (Manhattan Mental Health Counselling is the top-rated online therapy practice in New York). While they have a large emphasis on the big three – Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma, they also have specialized focuses. Check out below what services are offered.
Clinical Specialities:
- Eating Disorders – these are led by the founder herself. The sessions offer deep support for body image and disordered eating.
- LGBTQ+ – patients will receive a dedicated focus on identity exploration and the stress that comes with this.
- Relationships – offering couples counseling using frameworks like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). This helps partners break negative communication cycles.
- PTSD – Specialist support for trauma induced PTSD.
Therapeutic Approaches:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – this is goal orientated work to change the way you think and react.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – build skills that can help you with regulating your emotions.
- Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) – a specialized highly effective treatment often used for clients with PTSD and other trauma related mental health conditions.
As with any company there are a list of pros and cons, we have listed those so you don’t have to find out for yourself. This will help you decide whether or not to use their services.
Pros
A more human matching process – At MMHC they have a specialist intake coordinator. They will act as a concierge matching you with the right therapist. They will take a look at your needs, personality, goals, and availability. With this information they can find the perfect person for you to see. However, if it doesn’t work out then you needn’t worry. They do in fact have a seamless rematching process so you don’t ever have to ‘break up’ with your counselor.
Yes, you can use insurance – NYC is a big city and most counseling offices will either reject insurance payments or not provide the best care. You won’t get this with MMHC at all, in fact they welcome you if you need to cover counseling with your insurance company. If you are unsure of what you are entitled to then speak with their insurance coordinator before you start your sessions. This prevents you from receiving an unexpected bill for your counseling further down the line.
Diversity – NYC is a diverse place to live. If English isn’t your first language then you needn’t worry, MMHC has therapists who speak multiple languages. Cultural humility is a core part of their brand and they are super proud to offer not just multiple languages, but multiple cultures as well.
Never alone – counselors and therapists at MMHC receive high levels of supervision, support, and training. They are never left to act as lone wolves taking on numerous clients they can’t handle. You will always receive a therapist who is part of a valued community.
Cons
Location – due to licensing laws, in order to access their services you will need to be resident in New York. If you move out of the state then you will need to find a new provider.
No Crisis Availability – MMHC is only an outpatient clinic, this means they don’t have access for 24/7 crisis interventions. This can prove to be frustrating if you are hoping for an all-in-one solution.
Long Waitlists – of course, if you have a reputable therapy office, you will be met with long wait times. Their most popular therapists will be booked well in advance, especially if they offer evening and weekend slots.
Final Thoughts
So, do we recommend Manhattan Mental Health Counseling? Absolutely we do! Everyday New Yorkers who need counseling and therapy love MMHC for all their needs. If you are wanting long term therapeutic sessions and the ability to use insurance payments then this is one of the best options in the city. However, if you are after a one off, quick fix, then the intake process might be slightly too much for you.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
