MEET KEVIN goldwater, LMHC

YOU DON’T HAVE TO CARRY THIS alone.

I’m a Brooklyn-based therapist and professor that specializes in trauma‑informed, LGBTQAI+ affirmative psychotherapy. I create custom, one-of-a-kind treatment approaches for you.

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I BELIVE THE relationship BETWEEN CLIENT AND THERAPIST IS key.

So here’s a bit about me

Hi! Yes, I’m a licensed psychotherapist—but more importantly, I’m a big believer in the power of therapy and a huge nerd when it comes to psychology. I’m originally from Chicago, and got my BA in Applied Psychology at NYU with a focus on Social and Cultural Analysis and Music (culture and art play a big role in my style of therapy). I’ve worked as an Editorial Assistant for private therapy practices and written book reviews for the International Journal of Psychotherapy and Somatic Psychotherapy Today, and even had the opportunity to learn multicultural and psychopathological treatment modalities while I was abroad in Sydney, Australia. From there, I went on to get my masters in Counseling with a focus on queer health. Basically—I can’t get enough of this stuff.

Being that much of a nerd, I am also an Adjunct Professor at NYU Steinhardt, where I share my passion for mental health and support the next generation of mental health professionals. In addition, I dedicate myself to continuous professional growth through advanced training at places like Psychoanalytic Institute of New York (PANY) (this ensures I provide the most informed and effective care possible).

When I’m not in the therapy room, you can find me spending time with my miniature schnauzer (who I will likely bring up), exploring botanic gardens, or enjoying a good iced coffee.

How I work

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01

I BELIEVE CHANGE HAPPENS WHEN YOU start where you are.

When you come in, you may be experiencing feelings of sadness, loneliness, or exhaustion. You might feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges or find everything chaotic and confusing. My goal is to help you make sense of these feelings and guide you toward a more peaceful and balanced life through insight based therapy.

Think of our work together as a journey: we’ll explore where you’ve been, understand where you are now, and build a path toward the future you envision. I don’t believe in quick fixes—rather, I think in order to treat the leaves and branches, we need to get to know the roots. That begins by exploring right where you are when therapy begins.

A green velvet armchair with gold armrests and legs, with a stack of books resting on its seat. The chair is positioned on a wooden floor next to a window with sheer curtains and a sliding glass door with a balcony outside.

02

In a typical therapy treatment, we start right there, understanding your unique experiences and needs through a combination of psychodynamic psychotherapy and other evidence-based treatments. I zone in to the importance of understanding your identity, culture, and environment to address not just your internal struggles but also the external challenges or oppressions you may face. This approach ensures that our work together is tailored specifically to your individual situation.

Treatment looks different for everyone. With compassion, curiosity, and energy, I will meet you where you are, offering a supportive space where you can express yourself openly and honestly. My goal is to help you feel understood, valued, and empowered as you embark on your healing journey. From there, we will explore what is happening for you, what might need to change, and exactly how to get you there.

My Specialties

SUBSTANCE USE

01

LGB/TGNB Identity

02

TRAUMA

03

and more

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HEre’s what I believe about therapy:

This isn't about becoming someone "different."

Therapy helps you uncover and reconnect with the parts of yourself that have been hidden or hurt, not erase who you are.

The best investment you can make is in yourself.

Time and attention spent learning to regulate, understand, and care for yourself compound into clearer choices, stronger relationships, and more lasting wellbeing.

You are inherently deserving of peace.

We are entitled to connection, relief and self insight by virtue of just being alive—this gets convoluted and twisted by living in our world. I believe it’s our human, ethical right to return to a these pieces.

BG, Client

“Kevin is kind, empathetic, and creates an accepting, safe environment. He is an excellent therapist, and brings a wide array of different techniques and perspectives to our sessions. Anyone would be lucky to work with him.”

My Background

  • Psychoanalytic Association of New York
    Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Adults

    Janina Fisher’s Working with the Neurobiological Legacy of Trauma
    Certified Clinical Trauma Professional

  • NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
    BA - Applied Psychology
    MA - Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness
    AD-CRT LGBT Health, Education, and Social Services

    NPI: 1093387722
    New York State License Number: 013713
    New Jersey State License Number: 37PC01052800

  • National Board for Certified Counselors

    American Counseling Association

Ready to get started?

YOU’RE ALLOWED TO PUT YOURSELF FIRST.

Schedule a Consultation