Therapist Spotlight: Alysha Perlman, LCSW
We sat down with AGP Therapist, Alysha Perlman, to learn more about her approach to mental health. (Both, when she’s in session & when she’s snowboarding.)
How would a potential client know that you’re the right therapist for them?
I’m fortunate to understand and serve a variety of needs, but a few particulars stand out for me. I understand the issues millennials face specifically surrounding relationship and work stressors as well as generalized anxiety. I also have a natural ability to help people through the grief and loss that come from medical crises or the loss of a loved one. If someone is looking to address those needs, then I think I’d be a good fit!
“I aim to create an open and honest environment.”
The first session with a new therapist can be anxiety provoking and I’m there to help guide a client through the experience. I love watching a client’s confidence build as they learn to recognize and track their thoughts, feelings, and progress. There is nothing like the ‘Aha” moment a client has.
Speaking of “Aha” moments, can you share an “Aha” moment from your own life?
My ‘aha’ moments have definitely stuck with me, whether it’s a realization in my personal life, a goal I’ve achieved, or building strength I didn’t realize I had. I help my clients to have similar experiences in our work together.
What would you tell someone considering therapy for the first time?
It’s okay to be afraid of going to therapy. It’s an unknown much like many other things in life. If you’re unsure what to expect, ask questions. Though the unknown feels unsettling, an expert therapist will help guide the process so you can start to feel better faster.
What inspired your career as a therapist?
I went to school for psychology because I’ve always had a passion for people. From an early age I felt I was a good listener and people would find comfort in speaking to me. I had a grandmother who suffered from mental illness and I watched how it impacted my family in many ways. I saw the challenges people face navigating the healthcare system. I recognized that not only did my grandmother need help; families need support to navigate care. My experiences with my grandmother and family, especially within the context of larger systemic challenges, led to my career in social work. I like the ability to focus on the person as a whole and help them manage some of the larger issues that may feel out of their control.
That must give you a unique perspective navigating our current health system. What do you wish people knew about seeking mental health treatment?
Although mental health treatment and resources have improved, it’s still very difficult for people to find care. Insurance barriers, therapist availability, and the stigma that still surrounds mental health can deter people from starting therapy. I wish people knew that there are resources to make the process easier--including Psychology Today and Zencare. Although it may take time, keep looking for a therapist that’s best for you! Just like you would go to a doctor for a physical health concern, you should do the same for your mental health!
In addition to medical crises, you mentioned that you work with clients struggling with anxiety. What’s one thing that surprised you about working with this group?
It’s not so much a surprise, but a positive trend that I love seeing: A lot of clients come into therapy feeling skeptical that they’ll every feel less anxious. They think their intrusive and negative thoughts will always be there because they always have been. But, as we work together and the anxiety subsides, they’re confused about why they’re not worrying anymore. I love telling them “it’s because you learned the skills and did the work to change your thinking!” Feeling less anxious is their new normal and sometimes that takes getting used to. What a great feeling :)
You offer CBT, What exactly is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and how can it help clients?
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is an evidence-based tool that focuses on the intersection of our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Once we’re able to understand the patterns between these three elements, we can work to change our negative thinking. When we recognize our unwanted thoughts and behaviors, we can create a desirable change. It’s most beneficial for people struggling with anxiety or depression.
As a therapist, what do you do to decompress? What does your self-care look like?
I love yoga, and I run a lot. I also enjoy watching different documentaries and shows. I must say that I do love watching TV! I also really like planning things to look forward to. I get excited about the future, whether it's planning a trip, hanging out with friends, pretty much anything that involves being social. I also enjoy learning new things. I recently started snowboarding again which I haven’t done in years. Taking lessons and overcoming the fear of snowboarding on more difficult runs is challenging, but so rewarding!
Any recommendations for therapist-approved TV shows to binge on?
I love all types of TV. I recently binge-watched The Office (which I had never seen before, surprising I know!) I usually alternate watching a drama and comedy. Recently, I’ve been also been watching Succession, a drama on HBO. My taste changes all the time and I find it fun to re-watch shows years later to see what I may have missed. If you’re having difficulty finding a new show, I recommend re-watching something you previously enjoyed. You may enjoy it even more!
And for those readers looking to limit their screen-time, what’s your favorite book?
I really love The Great Gatsby. I like the complexity of the characters and that behind all of the glamour they were hiding so much more…I feel like this is true in therapy as well. We often have a persona that we show the world, but below the surface there is always more to share.
“It’s always important to get below the surface and get to the core of what’s going on”