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Cynthia Malek

Cynthia Malek, LCSW

Therapist · New York · 14+ years of experience

Experienced LCSW focused on practical change

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  • Client-centered care
  • CBT approaches
  • Trauma-informed work

About Cynthia

Cynthia Malek is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in New York. She brings 14 years of experience helping people manage stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship strain, trauma, and depression. Cynthia uses practical, down-to-earth conversation to help people notice patterns and take small, workable steps forward.

She favors an eclectic approach that adapts to each person. Sessions focus on what matters now - reducing symptoms, improving day-to-day functioning, and clarifying goals. Cynthia draws on Client-Centered Therapy to keep the work grounded in each person's values and priorities.

Cynthia also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior. She blends trauma-focused approaches when past hurt affects current life, helping people make sense of distressing memories and reactions. Motivational Interviewing supports change when someone feels stuck or uncertain about next steps.

Her background includes a Bachelor of Science in psychology from SUNY Oswego and a Master of Social Work from Syracuse University. Cynthia has worked with people facing substance concerns and complicated grief, and she combines practical strategies with reflective conversation.

The tone in sessions is collaborative and straightforward. People are invited to set the pace and focus on realistic goals. Prospective clients in New York who want to explore midlife transitions, relationship challenges, or recovery concerns are welcome to learn more and consider whether her style fits their needs.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression

Additional focus areas

AbandonmentAttachment issuesAvoidant personalityBody imageCo-morbidityCodependencyCommunication problemsControl issuesDependent personalityDissociationDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionForgivenessGuilt and shameImpulsivityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMidlife crisisMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksPersonality disordersPost-traumatic stressSelf-harmSelf-loveSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic approaches

Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational InterviewingPsychodynamic TherapyTrauma-Focused TherapySystemic Therapy

Experience

14+ years

Credentials

New York

Languages

English

How Cynthia’s Approaches Work Online and in Sessions

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on the person's own goals and values. The therapist listens closely and follows what matters most to the client, helping them name priorities and decide next steps.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at links between thoughts, feelings, and actions. It offers concrete tools to test unhelpful thoughts and change behaviors that keep problems going, which can be useful for anxiety, mood issues, and some relationship patterns.

Motivational Interviewing helps when someone feels unsure about change. It uses respectful questions and reflections to help people find their own reasons for moving forward and to build momentum for practical steps.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. Cynthia will discuss options and try methods that fit a client's goals and comfort level, adjusting as progress or needs change. The process is collaborative rather than one-size-fits-all.

Session formats are not listed in the provided biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Talk with the therapist about logistics so sessions match everyday schedules and personal needs.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does Cynthia help with?

She helps people dealing with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, trauma and depression, plus related topics such as abandonment, codependency, and body image.

What is her therapy style like?

Her style is adaptable and down-to-earth. Sessions mix conversation, practical tools, and reflections tailored to each person's needs.

How much clinical experience does she have?

She has 14 years of clinical experience working with people facing substance concerns, trauma, mood challenges, and relationship strain.

What are her credentials and where is she based?

She holds an LCSW and practices in New York.

Which languages are supported?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can people outside the U.S. work with her?

International clients are not currently accepted.

How is cost handled for sessions?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

What is the process to begin therapy?

Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.

Cynthia Malek Online therapy options on BetterHelp

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