We are here to make the world a better place in our own unique and special way. In a world troubled by so much trauma, whatever I can do to help others be their most vibrant and fulfilled selves has become my calling. When we feel at peace with ourselves, we are better able to take care of our mental, emotional, physical and even spiritual wellbeing. And,when we take better care of ourselves, we have greater capacity to take care of our families, communities and the planet. This ripple effect is powerful and, for many people, therapy is where healing begins.
Life is a journey rich with discoveries, heartache, healing, love, hurts, highs, lows and a lot of growth. While there is so much beauty to be found in this life, none of us get out of it without loss, sorrow and pain. We are each unique, however, we are also doing our best to navigate similar relationship complexities, stressors, feelings of uncertainty and inadequacy and the ups and downs that are an inevitable part of life. Whether anxiety, depression, grief, trauma or a significant life change is creating strife, I believe in our inherent capacity to heal. I am rewarded everyday by witnessing clients resolve challenges, build strength, resiliency and connection and come out the other side of therapy with a greater sense of fulfillment.
I treat a variety of issues with a primary focus on depression and anxiety, as well as working with couples, people living with chronic illness and chronic pain, survivors of sexual abuse (both male and female) and women suffering from postpartum disorders. Regardless of the place of pain—whether physical, mental, emotional or all three—I believe that knowing that we are not alone and the sharing of our experiences in a safe space can bring about extraordinary reductions in pain. There is also much relief and safety to be found in the present moment, especially given how many of us are stuck in the past and/or worrying about the future. While there is not much you can do about either, you can be in the here and now.
I understand that everyone hurts and heals in different ways. Drawing from a variety of approaches—from cognitive work, psychoanalytic practice to mindfulness techniques—we can devise a therapy strategy that is tailored specifically for you. I live the way I approach my work, and would never suggest or ask you to do something that hasn't been proven effective or doesn't feel authentic and helpful. I do, however, believe in the power of education, the normalizing of our collective experiences and developing a trusting relationship in which you feel safe sharing anything and everything that is coming up for you. Clients often tell me that I'm warm, real, easy to talk to and adorably funny. What would life be without humor?
Outside of my practice, I love reading, research, the arts and science. I also am passionate about bowling, swimming and yoga—maybe meditative movement is the connection there? I love creativity and expression and am a big fan of processes, putting things together and helping people move through their own developmental growth whether in their careers, relationships, education or family.
You Can Live An Empowered, Connected And Fulfilled Life
If you're struggling right now, please know that you are not alone. It is possible to unravel and let go of the relationships, stories and patterns that don't serve you anymore. There is no time like the present to begin to recognize your inherent worth, let go of fear and give yourself permission to shine.
If you're in the Hamptons, North Fork or South Fork, or surrounding areas, I invite you to call my office at 212-888-2888 for a free phone consultation. I'm happy to discuss your specific needs and answer any questions you have about my practice.
After a career in manufacturing and merchandising in NYC, Nella Hahn, LCSW-R earned her BA at Marymount Manhattan College, her MA at Hunter College School of Social Work and a Certificate in Bioethics and Medical Humanities at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Nella has also done extensive advanced training, including Certification in Psychoanalysis from the Suffolk Institute of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy and Postpartum Training at Birth Doula, NYC. Nella has written articles for the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and is a member of NASW, American Psychological Association (APA), New York State Clinical Social Workers (NYSCSW) and the Suffolk Mental Health Association. She currently sits on several community committees and is an avid champion for individuals with special needs.