Kussi Lipskier

From an early age, I found myself deeply interested in the complexities of how people connect with each other and the insights provided by psychology. My own battles with addiction forced me to confront a range of difficult emotions, including shame, fear, unworthiness, and loneliness. These feelings were intense and often made me feel isolated, as if I were alone in my struggles. However, going through the process of recovery opened my eyes to something significant—the incredible impact that feeling connected, validated, and genuinely seen can have on a person. This was a turning point for me, shifting my perspective and showing me how crucial these elements are in overcoming personal challenges. With this understanding, I became a therapist to replicate that supportive experience for others. My goal in therapy is straightforward: to provide a space where people can feel completely safe to express themselves, a place where they are supported without judgment, and where they can start to rebuild their sense of hope and self-worth. Drawing from my personal path through addiction and recovery, I bring a realistic and empathetic approach to my practice. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to confront and work through deeply embedded issues. Therefore, I strive to offer the kind of support that can genuinely make a difference—encouraging clients to recognize their value, to understand they are not alone, and to see the possibility of change. My experience has taught me the value of connection not only in healing but in fostering an environment where real transformation can begin. Trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and beginning training to become a certified sex addiction therapist, I create a safe and secure environment for individuals and couples to recognize, better understand, and express their emotions and address their challenges. This foundational safety is critical for enabling clients to engage with their vulnerabilities and initiate the healing process. For individuals and couples dealing with addiction, my philosophy extends to understanding the complexities of how addiction impacts emotional availability and relationship dynamics. Recognizing addiction as both a personal struggle and a relationship issue, I work with clients to uncover the emotional triggers and cycles that contribute to their addictive behaviors, while also emphasizing the importance of rebuilding trust and security within their relationships. In both individual and couples counseling, I adhere to the principles of creating an empathetic and non-judgmental space. This environment encourages clients to confront patterns of behavior that hinder their emotional and relational growth and cultivate healthier ways of connecting with themselves and their loved ones. My role is to provide guidance, support, and evidence-based interventions that foster emotional healing, resilience, and meaningful connections. My experiences with recovery have given me a firsthand understanding of the challenges of feeling isolated and the deep need for connection. Overcoming personal struggles with feeling out of place has shown me just how important it is to be seen and supported in one's authentic self. Additionally, my work as a rabbi has reinforced the value of trust and community in personal development. These parts of my background enhance my ability to empathize with my clients. They guide me in my practice to establish a safe environment where clients can openly address their issues and start the healing process. I am committed to fostering a therapeutic setting that promotes understanding and empowers individuals to take steps towards recovery and re-establishing their connections with others.