Lia Amakawa, PhD

For 20 years, I have been a collaborator in profound transformations. I believe that everyone, without exception, can heal when met with a truly safe and affirming environment. From here, we lift or establish boundaries, challenge distortion, re-pattern outdated responses and deepen connection to self and others. Therapy shifts from what’s gone wrong to cultivating meaning, purpose, and a fuller sense of possibility. Our process is dynamic, creative and, at times, surprisingly light. We address practical concerns in a grounded and methodical way, while also making room for intuition and the deeper layers of experience that feel ineffable. I am fully invested in your transformation, making sure that you feel cared for at every step.

✺Experience✺

  • PhD in Clinical Psychology, Fordham University

    BA in Studio Art & English, Williams College

  • EMDR Certified Therapist & Consultant, EMDRIA

    Attachment-Focused EMDR Certified Therapist, Parnell Institute

    Internal Family Systems (IFS), IFS Institute

    Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Fluence

    Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Silberman School of Social Work

    Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), AEDP Institute

  • I’m an elementary school teacher turned therapist. I trained in NYC hospitals (Bronx Lebanon, Memorial Sloan Kettering), clinics (Fort Hamilton Adult Outpatient, Mount Sinai’s Child & Family Institute), schools (The Rebecca School, CARES therapeutic high school) and private practices (Behavior Therapy of NY, Rennicke & Associates), gathering clinical and practical wisdom from my supervisors, colleagues and each and every client.

  • EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program, NYC chapter, Volunteer

    EMDRIA’s Racial Equity Support Initiative, Consultant

    Healing TREE (Trauma Resources Education & Entertainment), Advisor

  • Availability

    In-Person & Virtual Sessions

  • Session Types

    Adult Individual Therapy, Adolescent Individual & Family Therapy, Parent Coaching, Therapist Consultation

  • Contact

    DrAmakawa@gmail.com

    929.500.1577