Alexander Conway

Hello, I’m Alex Conway, a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York with a focus on Positive Psychology and Buddhist psychology. I specialize in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, helping clients build resilience, self-compassion, and authentic happiness through evidence-based practices and mindfulness techniques. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, centered on empowering you to lead a fulfilling and joyful life.

My approach

My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing primarily from Positive Psychology, Buddhist psychology, and mindfulness-based practices. I believe in empowering clients to harness their strengths and cultivate a deep sense of well-being. By integrating Positive Psychology, I help clients focus on building resilience, fostering gratitude, and nurturing positive emotions to create a more fulfilling life. Incorporating Buddhist psychology allows me to guide clients in developing mindfulness, self-compassion, and emotional balance. These practices help clients become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, fostering a non-judgmental acceptance that can lead to profound personal growth. I also employ cognitive-behavioral techniques when appropriate, especially to help clients challenge and reframe unhelpful thought patterns. My approach is client-centered, meaning I tailor my techniques to each individual’s unique needs and goals, creating a collaborative, supportive, and growth-oriented therapeutic environment.

My focus

I primarily work with clients from the LGBTQ+ community, helping them navigate a range of challenges related to identity, self-acceptance, and mental well-being. I’m particularly comfortable treating issues such as anxiety, depression, and the impacts of trauma. I also focus on helping clients struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, and stress management. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences and build a more joyful, resilient life.

My communication style

My communication style is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I strive to create an environment where clients feel truly heard, understood, and supported. In sessions, I focus on fostering a collaborative and open atmosphere, encouraging clients to explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Working with me often feels like a partnership where we explore challenges together, with empathy and a focus on growth. I balance a gentle, encouraging tone with a commitment to helping clients take actionable steps toward their goals, always prioritizing their well-being and personal empowerment.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey to becoming a therapist began with my academic background in Human Biology at Brown University, where I developed a deep interest in the connection between the mind, body, and overall well-being. This foundation in biology, combined with my personal experiences as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, led me to explore ways to support others in their mental health journeys. As I delved deeper into Positive Psychology and Buddhist psychology, I found a calling in helping people not just survive but thrive, by focusing on resilience, joy, and self-compassion. My work as a therapist is also informed by the insights I shared in my book, The Path to Enlightenment: Lessons from History and Culture for the LGBTQ+ Community, which reflects my commitment to empowering others through knowledge, mindfulness, and positive change. What drives me every day is the opportunity to witness and support my clients’ journeys toward greater self-acceptance, healing, and fulfillment.

My goals for you

When it comes to goal setting, I take a collaborative and client-centered approach. We begin by exploring your values, aspirations, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. I believe that goals should be meaningful and aligned with your personal values, so I work closely with you to ensure they resonate with your authentic self. We typically start with broad, long-term goals that reflect your overall vision for your life and well-being. From there, we break these down into smaller, manageable steps that feel achievable and motivating. I incorporate principles from Positive Psychology to help you focus on strengths-based goals that foster resilience and joy. Throughout the process, I ensure that the goals are flexible and adaptable, allowing for changes as you grow and progress. We regularly review and adjust them together, celebrating successes and addressing any challenges that arise. My goal is to support you in creating a clear, actionable path toward the life you want to lead, while always prioritizing your well-being and personal growth.

My first session with you

During the first session, clients can expect a warm and welcoming environment where we begin to build a foundation of trust and understanding. The session will primarily focus on getting to know you, including your background, current challenges, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. I’ll ask questions to understand your personal history, values, and any previous experiences with therapy. We’ll also discuss your goals and what you envision for your future, setting the stage for our work together. I’ll explain my therapeutic approach and answer any questions you might have, ensuring you feel comfortable and informed about the process. This initial session is also a time for you to share what’s most important to you and for us to start developing a collaborative plan for your therapy journey. It’s a safe space where you can express yourself openly, and I’ll be there to listen, support, and help guide the direction of our work together.