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Joel Sanchez(He/Him/His)

(He/Him/His)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW
New York
Couples counseling-Race and cultural identity-Depression-Anxiety-Life purpose & meaning-
AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & FeesTestimonials

Professional statement

I am a bilingual therapist in New York, working in both English and Spanish, with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in multicultural, bicultural, and biracial couples, helping partners navigate recurring conflict, cultural differences, family expectations, and identity-related stressors.

Providing therapy in your preferred language allows for deeper emotional expression, clearer communication, and more authentic connection, especially when cultural or family dynamics are involved. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where difficult topics can be explored, patterns clarified, and change achieved.

I provide a safe, supportive space where couples can explore difficult topics, strengthen connection, and work through patterns that get in the way of intimacy.

Using evidence-based practices, I tailor therapy to your unique dynamics, circumstances, and goals. For multicultural, bicultural, or biracial couples, we also consider how cultural factors influence communication, conflict, and understanding.

Together, we focus on clarifying underlying issues, improving communication, and building a healthier, more resilient relationship.

I also work with high-achieving adults who feel successful externally but struggle with dating, intimacy, identity, or career direction. Therapy with me focuses on understanding patterns, improving relationships, and creating meaningful personal and relational growth. Individual therapy may be helpful if you are:

• Navigating dating or intimacy patterns that feel repetitive or unfulfilling

• Struggling with identity, cultural expectations, or a nonconforming identity

• Feeling disconnected, anxious, or stuck despite external success

• Reconsidering career direction or life priorities

• Processing experiences related to marginalization, racism, sexism, or homophobia

We will focus not only on symptom relief, but on the underlying patterns that shape your relationships and choices, so you can live more authentically.


Message to clients

With over 20 years of clinical experience, I offer a safe, thoughtful, steady, and depth-oriented therapeutic space where complex relational patterns can be understood and changed.

Seeking therapeutic help is an act of courage. Recognizing that you or you and your partner need help, and taking steps to get help in order to address the overwhelming circumstances of your specific situation is also an act of faith and hope. Thank you for choosing me as your therapist and giving me the honor of working with you towards healing.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 20 years

Private Practice, Sole Practitioner, 2013 - Present
Sullivan County Special Education Department, Social Worker, 2013 - 2014
Sullivan County Adult Care Center, Social Work Supervisor, 2012 - 2013
Riverdale Mental Health Association, Bilingual Social Worker, 2010 - 2011
Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services, Bilingual Senior Social Worker, 2008 - 2010
Union Settlement Association, Bilingual Social Worker, 2006 - 2008
City University of New York, Adjunct Professor, Dept. of Theater, 2000 - 2007
The Bronx Lab School, Bilingual Social Work Intern, 2004 - 2005
Project Liberty, Counselor, 2002 - 2004
NYS Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, Disability Counselor, 2001 - 2004
Plays for Living, Teaching Artist, 2000 - 2003
London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, One-Year Postgraduate Training Program, 1990 - 1991

Smith College School for Social Work, MSW, 2006
Columbia University School of the Arts, MFA, 1999
London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, One-Year Postgraduate Training Program, 1991
University of Illinois at Chicago, BA, 1987

Licensure

New York: 080198

Languages

English, Spanish

Specialties

Couples counseling - Working with cultural differences in interracial or mixed ethnic relationships. Strengthening communication, addressing how past trauma affects feelings of emotional connection and safety,

Race and cultural identity - Exploring topics of racial, cultural, and ethnic background as it relates to one’s family origins and personal identity.

Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life.

Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder).

Life purpose & meaning - Exploring one’s beliefs and values around life purpose, meaning, and spirituality; addressing the barriers to living a life that feels authentic and fulfilling, including instigating change or developing new habits




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Couples
  • Seniors (65+)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours

I am only accepting teletherapy clients at this time located in New York state.


Insurance

Joel Sanchez is not in-network with any insurances.

Read about the benefits of seeing an out-of-network provider here.


Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$200 (45min)
  • Initial session:$200 (60min)
  • Couples sessions:$250 (60min)
  • Family sessions:$250 (60min)
  • Initial consultation (Complimentary):$0 (30min)

Additional session information

Out-of-network billing options

This provider can support you in getting reimbursement from your insurance company if you are seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Here are the out-of-network billing options they provide:

  • Super billing
Payment options
  • Credit Card
  • Debit Card
  • PayPal
Session frequency

Frequency of sessions this provider offers to see clients once you are an established client.

  • Weekly
  • As needed
Therapist's note

Even though I'm out-of-network and don't accept insurance directly, your insurance may still cover a significant portion of my fee. I use Thrizer to handle your benefits automatically — no paperwork, no waiting. PPO plans may reduce a $200 session to $50–70. Reach out and we can figure out your options.


Client testimonials

"Joel listened and responded in a very friendly manner."
- Zencare client February 2021
"Joel was a great listener."
- Zencare client June 2020
"He was very friendly and clear to set approaches and goals."
- Zencare client July 2020

Book a Free Initial Consultation

The practice will call you for a free 10 minute phone call to discuss your needs and ensure a match!

This provider has no upcoming call times available.