Manhattan Wellness

"Instead of self criticism dare to try something new - self compassion"

emily sterns, lcsw

SENIOR THERAPIST 

all about Emily

Emily’s compassionate and approachable presence creates a space where clients feel supported, understood, and motivated to grow. From the very first session, clients notice her warm and non-judgmental style, which makes it easy to open up and be their most authentic selves. Emily listens deeply with empathy while also challenging her clients to explore patterns and obstacles that may be holding them back. Her goal is to ensure clients leave each session with both insight and actionable tools they can use right away.

Emily specializes in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges, as well as supporting individuals through the unique emotional experiences of fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood. Clients often describe Emily’s sessions as both grounding and empowering, giving them the confidence to move forward with clarity.

When you work with Emily, you will never feel alone—she partners with you every step of the way, guiding you to strengthen your resilience, reconnect with your authentic self, and take meaningful steps toward the life you want to create.

how she works

Emily draws on a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to integrate skills-based strategies with mindfulness, self-compassion, and emotional regulation. She believes that therapy works best when it is collaborative, transparent, and rooted in trust. Her style is authentic, direct, and compassionate, helping clients feel understood while also encouraging growth.

Life can be overwhelming, and Emily recognizes how uncertainty, “what if” thinking, and self-doubt can keep us stuck. She helps clients confront these challenges with curiosity and courage, reframing unhelpful patterns and fostering more balanced, confident ways of navigating daily life.

Emily emphasizes self-empowerment, reflection, and resilience. She encourages her clients to discover their strengths, practice self-love, and build healthier relationships both with themselves and others. With Emily’s guidance, clients gain practical coping skills, fresh perspectives, and the confidence to take control of their lives in ways that feel authentic and lasting.

Get to know me

aquaphor- In every purse and drawer

One thing you couldn't live without

my nephew- everytime I see his face I cant help but light up

Something that always makes you smile

😂- lots of laughs

Most used emoji

My family's house in Florida- every time I'm there it feels like a break from reality, something about the palm trees feels like automatic vacation

Where is your happy place?

I'd love to be able to fly and just bop around the world at ease

If you could have any superpower what would it be?

I love to start my day with skincare and a morning walk to pick up a matcha at a local coffee shop


Morning routine

I love to start my day with skincare and a morning walk to pick up a matcha at a local coffee shop

What do you do to de-stress? 

Start every Monday morning with a trip to the farmers market and meal prep to make my week a bit easer

How do you set yourself up for a successful week? 

Tel Aviv- I studied there abroad and am in Love with the city

Favorite place you have traveled

morning walks, meal prepping, and mint tea before bed

Rituals

Well + Good

Every Girl

Kind WORDS FROM HER CLIENTS

emily has made me feel comfortable since day one

I never feel like I have to edit myself and what I say like I have in past therapy experiences. I feel understood and seen, and maybe more importantly, validated that I'm not crazy. It is extremely valuable to me to learn and better understand how I think and what triggers my anxiety in order to reframe negative thoughts so they become passing ones instead of lingering ones that consume my day.

emily's help in setting boundaries at work has improved my day-to-day immensely

In every conversation I have with Emily, I know she's 100 percent ready for whatever I may bring with me that day. Results: Knowing that I have a time, and space each week to talk to Emily to unpack and work through anything on my mind has given me a sense of peace when encountering challenging situations.

Every session she is present - remembers small details and focuses our time together. Emily has a very calm demeanor, which puts me at ease. I feel that she truly listens without judgment. She is gentle and understanding. She’s made therapy a safe space for me

emily is warm, smart and connected

Emily has made me feel comfortable since day 1

 I never feel like I have to edit myself and what I say like I have in past therapy experiences. I feel understood and seen, and maybe more importantly, validated. 

In every conversation I have with Emily, I know she's 100% ready for whatever I may bring with me that day

In a time of great transition, she's been with me, helping navigate changes, setbacks, and new beginnings by affirming, reframing, or challenging me with patience, humor, and kindness.

Professional + Clinical Experience

Emily's

Library

Each book offers unique insights and wisdom, reflecting our therapists' passion for personal growth and well-being. You might find the perfect read that resonates with you on your own journey to a happier, healthier life.



work with Emily

We believe that you have the power to live your best life, but often need the right support and guidance to get there.