Brian Ackerman

Brian Ackerman is a psychotherapist at Manhattan Therapy, specializing in individual and couples therapy. He holds a master's degree in Clinical Social Work from New York University (NYU) and identifies as a gay/queer man. His areas of expertise include psychotherapy related to sexuality, attachment, and trauma, with specialized training in affirming care around gender and sexuality, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy for couples. Brian is also trained in Safety and Attachment Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (SAFE EMDR) and is a fellow in the couple’s therapy program at the Training Institute for Mental Health.12

Before his career in therapy, Brian worked as a lobbyist advocating for sexual and reproductive health for adolescents and young people, as well as in management consulting, publishing, and community mental health. He views psychotherapy as an integral part of building a more just society by supporting individuals and relationships in developing self-understanding and compassion necessary for healing and growth.1

In his practice, Brian emphasizes a psychoanalytic approach to help clients integrate unconscious needs into conscious awareness, improving self-compassion and emotional regulation. He works with clients on various issues including gender identity, LGBTQIA+ concerns, poly/non-monogamy, kink, trauma, sexual compulsion, self-esteem, body dysmorphia, political activism, and professional development.12