Welcome to Artful Couples Therapy online counseling in NYC!
What is Artful Couples Therapy?
Artful Couples Therapy is a private psychotherapy practice in New York City. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with Diagnostic Privilege (LMFT-D) in New York State, treating individuals, couples, and families experiencing relational distress. I specialize in couples therapy, and offer committed-relationship counseling, pre-marital counseling, and marriage counseling.
My Approach
Couples therapy is an intimate process that involves more than skill–it requires artistry. Your relationship is unique, nuanced, and complicated. You may need someone to help you navigate issues specific to your relationship or marriage. My job is to gently untangle the complex web you have woven.
My work as a Marriage and Family Therapist is informed by decades of experience in the professional performing arts. After enjoying a rich career as a singer, writer, producer, and voiceover actor, I transitioned to the field of mental health. Skills I honed in the theatre—active listening, trust-building, and authentic communication—are the basis of productive therapeutic relationships and serve my patients well.
Relationships are not linear, and neither is couples therapy. The best place to start is in the here and now. Addressing what is happening in the moment leads to understanding, empathy, possibility, change, and a healthier future.
About Ivy Austin
Credentials
LMFT-D, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with Diagnostic Privilege in New York State. #002193
NPI #1396404281
Current Work
Psychotherapist; Supervisor; Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy
Metropolitan Center for Mental Health, New York
Mental Health Counseling Staff
Manhattan School of Music, New York
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY; SUPERVISOR OF CLINICAL INTERNS AT PARNES CLINIC
Yeshiva University, Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, New York
Mental Health Consultant to Theatrical Productions
Broadway Mental Health Services, New York
Education and Training
M.S. Marriage and Family Therapy
Manhattan College
Post-baccalaureate Pre-medical Courses
Columbia University School of General Studies
b.a. Biology/Biological Sciences
Colgate University
Divorce Mediation
Center for Mediation & Training
Suicide Prevention Training
The Samaritans of New York
Emotionally Focused Therapy Externship
K. de Bruin, Certified ICEEFT Supervisor and Trainer
Kestenberg Movement Profile
M. Johnson PhD, Certified KMP Analyst
Trauma Systems Therapy
Family Services of Westchester
The Gottman Method, Couples Therapy Levels 1 & 2
The Gottman Institute
More About Artful Couples Therapy
Relax, You Are In Good Hands
Starting couples therapy is a brave undertaking. I am certain the thought of airing out your dirty laundry in front of a complete stranger makes you feel uncomfortable and overwhelmed. Please take a breath, and try to relax. Helping couples is what I do, and making you comfortable is my job.
Goals
This is your therapy, and we work to achieve your goals. I am here to support you, your partner, and your family as you move forward. I will help you clarify and establish practical and realistic goals. If your desire is to heal and enhance your relationship, that is what we will work on. If you have a specific issue causing you distress, that is what we will address.
It Takes Two
You each have your own unique version of the facts related to why your relationship has deteriorated. You each believe you are right. Communication has broken down, and emotions are running high. Chances are, you are blaming all this dysfunction on your partner. But, there are two sides to every story.
All the World’s a Stage
If you are an artist, or trying to understand one, you will find comfort at Artful Couples Therapy. Having spent years of my professional life immersed in music, dance, drama, writing, and producing, I hold a special place in my heart for performing and creative artists. I appreciate your gifts and empathize with the challenges you face.
More About Artful Couples Therapy
Online Services
Free Consultation
15 min | Free
Individual Therapy
45 min | $175
Couples Therapy
60 min | $250
Family Therapy
60-75 min | $250-$300
Broadway Mental Health Services
Mental Health Consultant to Theatrical Productions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an LMFT?
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, like psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists, and psychiatric nurses, are recognized as “core” mental health professionals. As an LMFT, I am trained in psychotherapy and family systems theory. I address a wide range of emotional and psychological issues including, but not limited to, depression; anxiety; relational distress; premarital and marital conflict; intimacy issues; parent-child relationships; communication problems; child and adolescent behavior issues; substance abuse; mood disorders; eating disorders; short and long-term mental health issues; grief and loss; and separation and divorce.
What therapy modality do you practice?
I take an eclectic approach to therapy. I integrate concepts and select techniques from a variety of evidence-based therapy modalities. A multifaceted approach allows me to address the unique needs of each individual, couple, or family. I think holistically, and take into account your emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs.
Is Artful Couples Therapy only for artists?
You don’t have to be an artist to come to Artful Couples Therapy. However, my background has made me especially sensitive to struggles experienced by creative and performing artists, including financial instability; performance anxiety; gender and beauty constructs; self-esteem issues; ageism; sexism; the audition/rejection cycle; incompatible schedules; touring; career transitions; and separating the status of one’s arts career from one’s identity.
Do you take insurance?
I do not take insurance. I will provide you with a receipt to submit to your insurance carrier for out-of-network reimbursement.
Do you ever meet with people in person?
Artful Couples Therapy is an online psychotherapy practice.
How do I pay for teleheath therapy sessions?
I try to make it as easy as possible for my clients. Most people use Venmo or PayPal. If you prefer another app, that can be arranged.
What is your cancellation policy?
When we begin working together, I will ask for your credit card information to keep on file. I require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice for cancellations and rescheduling. If you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice, or you are a no-show, your card will be charged in full for the session.
What if my partner doesn’t want to attend couples counseling?
Very often, one person in a couple desires couples therapy while the partner resists. That’s why I recommend a 15-minute video consultation, at no charge. You will each have an opportunity to speak to the issues and learn about the couples therapy process.
How long does couples therapy take?
It depends on the issues at hand, as well as your finances. I work with couples for periods ranging from three months to two years. We can discuss and design a schedule that fits your needs.
What is couples therapy, and how can it help us?
Couples therapy is a form of counseling that helps partners improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their relationship. At Artful Couples Therapy, Ivy Austin LMFT specializes in helping couples in the greater Westchester/NYC area navigate challenges and build stronger connections.
What issues can be addressed in marriage counseling?
Marriage counseling can address a wide range of issues, including communication difficulties, trust concerns, intimacy challenges, and disagreements about parenting or finances. As an experienced marriage counselor in Westchester & NYC, Ivy tailors your sessions to meet your unique needs.
How do I know if we need couples therapy?
If you and your partner experience recurring conflicts, feel disconnected, or struggle to communicate effectively, couples therapy can provide valuable tools and support. Our Westchester-based couples therapist can guide you toward a healthier relationship.
What should we expect during our first couples therapy session?
During the initial session, your therapist will discuss your concerns, relationship history, and goals for therapy. This collaborative approach helps create a tailored plan to address your specific needs as a couple in Westchester.
How long does couples therapy typically last?
The duration of therapy depends on the complexity of the issues and your goals. Some couples may benefit from a few sessions, while others may need ongoing support. At Artful Couples Therapy, we create flexible plans to suit your needs.
What is the difference between couples therapy and marriage counseling?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, couples therapy typically focuses on improving relationships regardless of marital status, while marriage counseling often addresses challenges specific to married couples.
Can couples therapy help us decide whether to stay together?
Yes, couples therapy provides a safe space to explore your relationship and clarify your goals. As a couples therapist in Westchester and NYC, I can help partners make thoughtful decisions about their future together.
Do you offer premarital counseling?
Yes, we provide premarital counseling to help couples build a strong foundation before marriage in New York state. Topics may include communication, conflict resolution, and aligning life goals.
How do I choose the right marriage counselor in Westchester?
Look for a licensed professional with experience in couples and marriage counseling. At Artful Couples Therapy, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, effective support for couples in Westchester, New York City, and all of New York state.
Thank you to the artists!
Art Credits
- Le Mariage Mélancolique (1921) by Charles Martin
- Musician (1918) by Charles Demuth
- Dancer (1880) by Edgar Degas
- Starry Night Over the Rhone (1888) by Vincent Van Gogh
- Brooding Woman (1891) by Paul Gauguin
- Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Wase (1924) by George Wesley Bellows
- Help (1914-1918) by David Henry Souter
- Dancing Couple in the Snow (1928) by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner
- At Eternity’s Gate (1890) by Vincent Van Gogh
- Public Domain Image from Los Angeles County Museum of Art
- Sirmione (1913) by John Singer Sargent
- Myself: Portrait Landscape (1890) by Henri Rousseau
- Lebrecht Music & Arts (2007) by Lebrecht Authors
- Albert (René) Grenier (1887) by Henri de Toulouse–Lautrec
