(he/him)
New to Grow
Hello, my name is Dr. Ryan Peterson, and I am a New York State licensed psychologist. I am passionate about helping people understand themselves more deeply, navigate life's challenges, and build meaningful, lasting change. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practice, empathy, and client-centered care. I am dedicated to creating a supportive environment where those I work with feel safe, respected, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process. Taking the time to build trusting relationships is important to me, as is treating all with respect, compassion, and dignity regardless of their background, life circumstances, or choices they have made. My goal is to help those I work with feel supported, empowered, and heard. Whether improving access to care, increasing independence, reducing stress, or enhancing well-being, I strive to make a positive difference and help each person overcome the trials and tribulations of life.
During our first session, we will spend time getting to know one another and discussing your current situation, concerns, symptoms, and goals. I will ask questions to gain a better understanding of your strengths, needs, and any challenges you may be experiencing. Together, we will explore available resources and discuss how I can best support you moving forward. This initial session is a collaborative and confidential conversation designed to help you feel comfortable, understood, and supported. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can openly share your thoughts and experiences as we begin working together toward meaningful growth and positive change.
Having personally benefited from therapy, I firmly believe that life’s challenges can be powerful catalysts for growth and meaningful change. This perspective allows me to help others recognize their strengths, even in moments of struggle, and view difficulties not as obstacles to avoid, but as opportunities for learning and development. What sets me apart most is my ability to build genuine connections with people. I strive to create an environment where individuals feel accepted, understood, and comfortable being themselves. Through empathy, active listening, and a nonjudgmental approach, I help others feel safe discussing whatever is on their minds, knowing they will be met with respect, compassion, and understanding rather than criticism or ridicule.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are new to therapy, unsure where to begin, or feeling nervous, hesitant, or reluctant about engaging in the therapeutic process. I also have experience working with individuals who may initially be difficult to engage, and I approach these situations with patience, flexibility, and a nonjudgmental stance. My background across a variety of clinical settings and populations allows me to effectively support clients of all ages, meeting each person where they are and tailoring the therapeutic approach to their unique needs and readiness for change.
Other specialties
I identify as
Person-centered (Rogerian)
My practice is built on a foundation of unconditional positive regard, where I strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship with each person I work with. Using an interpersonal psychotherapy approach, I focus on fostering a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment where clients feel comfortable being open and honest without fear of judgment or criticism. Together, we explore relationship patterns, communication, emotions, and life transitions in ways that promote insight, healing, and meaningful change.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy are woven into each session to help identify and better understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Unhelpful thought patterns, emotional responses, and behaviors that may be contributing to distress are then challenged. Together, we work to develop healthier perspectives, more effective coping skills, greater self-awareness, and meaningful behavioral changes that support lasting emotional growth, positive change, and overall well-being.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
My approach incorporates solution-focused therapy by helping to recognize strengths, identify what is already working, and develop realistic strategies to moving forward. Sessions are collaborative, goal-oriented, trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive, and focused on creating meaningful change through practical and achievable steps.