Therapy for Latinx in NYC
Culturally sensitive mental health support in New York
Extensive experience working with individuals and couples from diverse cultural backgrounds, particularly Latinx people balancing traditional values with personal identity and self-expression.
Latinx therapy available in both English and Portuguese.
In-person therapy in NYC and Telehealth services for those who prefer remote support.
Over five years of experience, with a deep understanding of the intersectionality of gender, sexuality, and cultural identity.
Trained in EMDR Therapy, an evidence-based approach to healing trauma and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), including experiences of discrimination, migration stress, and intergenerational wounds often faced within the Latinx and queer communities.
Meet Lucas Saiter, LMHC
Latinx therapist in NYC
I'm Lucas Saiter, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in New York City. I completed my postgraduate training at New York University and studied Psychology and Neuroscience at Penn State University. My time in academia deepened my commitment to understanding mental health challenges and identity development. Throughout my career, I have worked in diverse clinical settings, including Baruch College, where I supported students navigating various aspects of their identities, and the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy’s Center for Gender and Sexuality. Now, I run a small group private practice dedicated to providing affirming care for marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQIA+ individuals and the Latinx community. As a bilingual therapist with lived experience as an immigrant, I understand the unique challenges of cultural identity, assimilation, and intergenerational dynamics. I am also trained in EMDR therapy, which is especially beneficial in processing trauma and addressing the complexities of identity and oppression. I continuously seek advanced training to expand my skills and offer the most effective support to my clients.
My approach to supporting Latinx mental health
In my work with the Latinx community, I take a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach that emphasizes understanding the unique experiences of each individual and their mental health. I use a combination of psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help clients explore their inner world, gain self awareness of family dynamics, and navigate the intersection of cultural values with personal identity. I recognize that the Latinx community often faces additional layers of stress related to immigration, acculturation, and intergenerational trauma, which can impact mental health in profound ways. My approach is rooted in a deep respect for these cultural complexities and the importance of family, tradition, and community. I work collaboratively with clients, providing a safe, non-judgmental space for them to explore their experiences and challenges while building a stronger sense of self. By using a combination of mindfulness and psychodynamic techniques, I help clients develop a greater awareness of unconscious patterns and the ways these patterns may have been shaped by their cultural upbringing and lived experiences. I am also trained in EMDR therapy, which can be particularly effective for processing trauma, including experiences of discrimination, family conflict, and migration stress. My goal is to support Latinx clients in understanding their full selves, navigating challenges, and achieving lasting change.
How to get started
Click here to schedule a free phone consultation.
You'll get an email once the consultation request has been confirmed. I'll give you a call at the phone number you provide and we'll have about 30 minutes to discuss what you're looking for and answer any questions you may have. Think of this as an informal conversation to get a sense of whether we would move forward or not.
Schedule the first session.
It can be helpful to schedule the initial session during the consultation to keep the momentum going or take some time to think about it. Either works and I'll follow your lead.
Complete forms.
These will be sent to you before the first session and mainly cover consent, policies, etc. They are similar to what you might fill out at a doctor's office, but done electronically. You'll also receive an email with the information about my office (e.g., address, getting into the suite, etc.).
Attend the first session.
No need to prepare, unless you find it helpful to write down some points you'd like to discuss or share. If we're meeting virtually, you'll already have access to the platform I use and I'll give you a call at the scheduled time. If in person, I'll greet you in the waiting area. This initial session will be similar to the phone consultation; we'll spend time discussing what brings you in in more detail. We'll wrap up this session by checking in on the next steps.
Common reasons why people start therapy
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Family is a central pillar in Latinx culture, but generational differences can sometimes lead to conflict. Traditional values around gender roles, relationships, and career choices may clash with an individual’s personal goals, especially for those who are first- or second-generation immigrants. Therapy can help clients navigate these conflicts with understanding, communication tools, and boundary-setting strategies.
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Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression can be intensified by cultural stigmas that discourage seeking help. Many in the Latinx community are taught to be strong and prioritize family over personal struggles, which can lead to suppressed emotions. Therapy challenges these stigmas and centers your needs while providing a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping strategies, and prioritize self-care.
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Historical and systemic oppression, discrimination, and experiences of abuse can have long-lasting psychological effects. Many Latinx folks have experienced trauma, whether personal or intergenerational, and may not have had the space to process it. Using trauma-informed approaches like EMDR Therapy can help clients heal from past wounds and develop healthier ways of moving forward.
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Many Latinx individuals experience the challenge of balancing their cultural heritage with the expectations of living in a different society and culture. This can lead to feelings of isolation, identity confusion, pressure to assimilate, or tension between personal desires and familial or cultural expectations. Therapy provides a space to explore these complexities, fostering a sense of self that honors both cultural roots and personal authenticity.
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Cultural narratives around relationships, marriage, and gender roles can impact how Latinx folks approach dating, intimacy, and partnerships. Therapy provides a space to explore relationship patterns, work through attachment wounds, and build healthy, fulfilling connections that align with personal values and needs.
When another practice might be a better fit for your needs
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While I provide therapy in both English and Portuguese, I do not offer sessions in Spanish or other languages. If a different language is a key factor in starting therapy, I encourage you to seek a provider who can offer support in your preferred language to ensure you feel fully understood and comfortable expressing yourself.
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While I have experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns, certain conditions—such as active psychosis, severe dissociative disorders, or complex medical-psychiatric conditions—may require more specialized care than I can provide. In these cases, I can help refer you to a provider with expertise in those areas.
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My practice is focused on creating a therapeutic space for exploration and healing rather than conducting formal psychological assessments or fulfilling legal requirements for court-mandated therapy. If you need evaluations for immigration, custody cases, or other legal matters, I recommend seeking a clinician who specializes in forensic or evaluative mental health services.
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If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, including active suicidal thoughts with intent, immediate danger, or a severe psychiatric crisis, my practice may not be the best fit. I recommend reaching out to emergency services, crisis hotlines, or inpatient treatment programs that can provide immediate, round-the-clock care.
3 highly recommended Latinx therapy resources in NYC
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1. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, Ph.D.
Dr. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, and trauma. He is particularly dedicated to supporting Latinx individuals and people of color, LGBTQ+ folks, men, and those navigating intersecting identities.
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2. Latinx Therapy Directory
This platform connects individuals with bilingual, culturally responsive mental health professionals specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and identity issues. With an extensive network of Latinx therapists, users can easily search by location, specialty, and language to find the right fit.
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3. Therapy for Latinx Directory
This inclusive platform also connects users with bilingual and culturally competent therapists specializing in mental health services for Latinx communities. Whether you're looking for therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, or identity exploration, this directory makes it easy to find a therapist who aligns with your needs.
FAQs
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Culturally affirmative therapy is an approach that recognizes, honors, and integrates a person’s cultural background, values, and lived experiences into the therapeutic process. It goes beyond cultural competence by actively affirming clients' identities rather than simply being aware of them. This means the therapist acknowledges how culture, race, ethnicity, language, immigration status, and historical oppression shape mental health and personal identity.
Identifying factors of a culturally affirmative therapist can include:
They have experience working with clients from your background.
They use a therapeutic model or framework that considers cultural factors, such as Narrative Therapy.
They demonstrate cultural awareness in their approach.
They create a safe and affirming space, validating your experience.
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The Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy (ICP) offers affordable mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. With specialized programs in gender and sexuality, trauma, eating disorders, and family and couples therapy, ICP provides affirming and evidence-based care to diverse communities. ICP is committed to making mental health care accessible through sliding-scale fees.
Open Path is a nonprofit organization and directory with thousands of therapists who provide low cost therapy sessions. You can also filter your search by cost, specialty, language, and more.
NYC 988 provides free, confidential mental health support, crisis intervention, and referrals to services, regardless of insurance coverage. You can reach them by calling or texting 988, or by chatting online. They offer support in multiple languages, including Spanish.
In addition to therapy, consider these supportive resources:
Community Centers and Support Groups: Local community centers often host support groups and workshops that can provide emotional support and practical assistance. The LGBT Community Center (The Center) serves as a hub for the LGBTQIA+ community in NYC, offering a range of health and wellness programs, including support groups, counseling, and educational workshops. They provide services on a sliding scale and can assist with referrals to low-cost therapy options.
Educational Workshops: Organizations like NAMI-NYC offer educational programs to help individuals and families understand mental health conditions and develop coping strategies.
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Seeking therapy can be a complicated and overwhelming journey. Here are a few tips to make it easier:
Look for a therapist with experience in the concerns you want to address, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, or relationship challenges. If you are part of the Latinx community, finding a therapist with cultural competency and affirmative training can make a significant difference.
Different therapists use different approaches, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or mindfulness-based approaches. Consider whether a structured, goal-oriented approach or a more exploratory, insight-driven process would be the best fit for you.
If your cultural background, gender identity, or sexual orientation is important to your therapeutic experience, seek a therapist who affirms and understands these aspects of your identity. Someone you can relate to. A culturally affirmative therapist can help you explore how your experiences shape your psychology and works with you to achieve mental well being.
Feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist is crucial. Therapy is most effective when there is a strong therapeutic alliance—meaning you feel heard, supported, and safe to explore your thoughts and emotions.
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and it’s okay to have questions before committing. I encourage you to reach out for a consultation to see if my approach aligns with your needs.
Start working with a Latinx therapist in NYC today
My mission is to provide a safe, affirming space where you can explore your identity, heal from past challenges, and build the life you want. With a focus on the Latinx communities, I offer therapy that is culturally responsive and trauma-informed, using a blend of psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. Whether you're looking to strengthen your sense of self, process past experiences, or enhance your relationships, I’m here to help you achieve your goals with compassion and care. If you’re unsure whether my practice is the right fit, I encourage you to reach out for a consultation. This is a chance for us to connect, discuss your needs, and determine how we can work together to create a path forward. Your mental health and authenticity matter—let’s begin the journey together!