Approach
Research has shown that problems and symptoms in humans emerge from a number of factors including genetic, epigenetic, position in a family and in society, chronic or acute stress, and deeper emotional and relationship patterns that are hard to see. Dr. Schwartz believes we can learn to see these patterns, develop a greater understanding of the multitude of factors, gain some control over emotional processes, and practice ways to think better about how to solve these problems and improve our functioning.
For anyone dealing with a symptom, in themselves, a loved one, or in an important relationship, it is very difficult to think clearly about what to do, and this is often why people seek help. Working with someone who is outside the emotional field, who has extensive knowledge of the emotional and relational pathways that lead to problems, and who is experienced in asking questions that broaden the scope of thinking and bring awareness to forces once invisible, leads to more creative, effective, and sustainable problem solving.
Dr. Schwartz's approach is grounded in evolutionary and Bowen Family Systems Theory. It is based on the idea that humans are propelled and inhibited by the same life forces that govern all living things, and are also unique in our ability to observe these forces and manage our responses. She helps clients build awareness of underlying patterns, develop sustainable tools for self-regulating, predict stressors and triggers, and better define and manage self. Her work engages the resilience and adaptability that is possible in all of us.
For anyone dealing with a symptom, in themselves, a loved one, or in an important relationship, it is very difficult to think clearly about what to do, and this is often why people seek help. Working with someone who is outside the emotional field, who has extensive knowledge of the emotional and relational pathways that lead to problems, and who is experienced in asking questions that broaden the scope of thinking and bring awareness to forces once invisible, leads to more creative, effective, and sustainable problem solving.
Dr. Schwartz's approach is grounded in evolutionary and Bowen Family Systems Theory. It is based on the idea that humans are propelled and inhibited by the same life forces that govern all living things, and are also unique in our ability to observe these forces and manage our responses. She helps clients build awareness of underlying patterns, develop sustainable tools for self-regulating, predict stressors and triggers, and better define and manage self. Her work engages the resilience and adaptability that is possible in all of us.
Background
Dr. Schwartz began her professional career in 1996 as an elementary school teacher before shifting direction to the study of animal behavior. She spent several years working with research biologists and conservation psychologists at two prominent zoos before receiving a Masters of Science in Animals and Public Policy from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. Her research at Tufts examined the anxiety-reducing effects of non-human animals on humans.
From 2001-2008, Dr. Schwartz combined her interests in child development and animal studies by providing Animal-Assisted Therapy for children and adolescents at a residential treatment center while completing a Doctor of Psychology in School-Clinical Psychology at the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology. During that time she also received training and provided clinical services in several schools, day treatment centers, and psychiatric hospitals in Westchester and NYC. Her doctoral research focused on inter-cultural contact, unconscious racism, and family dynamics.
Dr. Schwartz opened her private practice in Brooklyn in 2009. Since then, she has also worked in middle and high schools as a Consulting Psychologist and has continued post-graduate work in family systems theory at The Ackerman Institute for the Family and The Bowen Family Center. Her clinical focus is in family systems theory, child and adolescent development, parenting across the lifespan, changes in the marital relationship after having children, family adjustment to life transitions, and the role of family relationships on individual functioning.
From 2001-2008, Dr. Schwartz combined her interests in child development and animal studies by providing Animal-Assisted Therapy for children and adolescents at a residential treatment center while completing a Doctor of Psychology in School-Clinical Psychology at the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology. During that time she also received training and provided clinical services in several schools, day treatment centers, and psychiatric hospitals in Westchester and NYC. Her doctoral research focused on inter-cultural contact, unconscious racism, and family dynamics.
Dr. Schwartz opened her private practice in Brooklyn in 2009. Since then, she has also worked in middle and high schools as a Consulting Psychologist and has continued post-graduate work in family systems theory at The Ackerman Institute for the Family and The Bowen Family Center. Her clinical focus is in family systems theory, child and adolescent development, parenting across the lifespan, changes in the marital relationship after having children, family adjustment to life transitions, and the role of family relationships on individual functioning.