Derek Bakay, LMHC
Practical, person-focused counseling for life changes
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- Client-centered support
- Goal-oriented tools
- Experience and calm
About Derek
Derek uses a blend of client-centered, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused ideas. In session he listens first, then works with each person to set practical goals. He helps people notice unhelpful thoughts, try new behaviors, and build small routines that make daily life easier.
People often come to him for help with relationship tension, parenting stress, or struggles around life purpose. He also supports those coping with caregiver strain, chronic illness, or shifts that come with aging. Sessions include straightforward conversation and concrete strategies rather than long theoretical explanations.
Derek emphasizes collaboration. He treats the person across from him as the expert on their own life and helps them use their strengths to move forward. The work tends to be focused and oriented toward change, but paced to match each person's needs.
Therapy follows a practical approach. Derek and the client shape a plan together, review progress regularly, and adjust goals as needed. Sessions are conducted in English and are offered from his New York practice.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
15+ years
Credentials
New York
Languages
English
How his approaches translate to online therapy
Derek draws on client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to guide online work. Client-centered therapy focuses on listening, acceptance, and building a trusting dialogue so the client feels heard and understood. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps identify unhelpful thoughts and tests small behavior changes to reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression.He also uses solution-focused techniques that zero in on practical steps and what is already working. Together these approaches aim to keep sessions grounded and goal-oriented. Derek will collaborate with each person to decide which combination fits their goals and preferences, and he adjusts the plan as progress is reviewed.
If you are considering online sessions, confirm the available session options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. These practical benefits often help people maintain momentum between sessions while they work on stress, midlife decisions, caregiving strain, or improving everyday routines.
Frequently asked questions
What issues does Derek commonly address?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, career concerns, and coping with life changes including midlife transition and purpose-related questions.
What is his therapy style like?
His style is warm and interactive. Sessions focus on listening, practical steps, and tailoring the plan to each person's goals.
How much professional experience does he have?
Derek has 15 years of experience working as a counselor in clinical settings supporting a range of concerns.
What credentials and location are listed?
He is licensed as an LMHC in New York and provides therapy from his practice in New York.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the US work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are fees and billing handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What are the steps to begin therapy?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.