Suyana Handman, LCSW

My name, Suyana, means “hope” in Quechua, an indigenous language to Peru. I am a Brooklyn-born native New Yorker, daughter to a Peruvian mother and American father, which uniquely positions me to understand the feeling of  navigating life in between two worlds. We all have multiple roles and parts of our identities in our lives, which can sometimes leave us feeling out of place, neither here nor there, whether that be in the context of work, interpersonal life, creative projects, or your relationship with yourself. My goal is to support you through the self-doubts and into your healing journey by finding your inner sense of security, balance, and innate strengths.

I approach therapy from an antiracist framework and believe that when we take the time to allow ourselves to be introspective, to be vulnerable, and to meet ourselves with compassion rather than guilt and shame, that is the catalyst for profound change. I believe therapy is not a one-size-fits model, as we all have unique intergenerational histories and parts of ourselves that make us who we are today. As such, in collaboration with my patients, my clinical approach is uniquely tailored to each individual’s needs and develops over time as our therapeutic journey unfolds.  

I specialize in working with women, and with adults experiencing challenges with anxiety and interpersonal relationships, young people and emerging adults, artists and creatives, and BIPOC identifying folks. Rooted in my own lived experiences with plant medicines and expanded states of consciousness, I also work with those interested in integrating plant medicines and psychedelics into their therapeutic journey. Working from a Harm Reduction and Integration approach, I create an intentional and supportive space that empowers you to tap into your inner healing capacity by uncovering limiting beliefs and enfranchising innate wisdoms. 

Meaningful growth and healing takes commitment, patience and a tremendous amount of courage.  In partnership with my patients, I am deeply committed to providing an understanding, non-judgmental, therapeutic space in which to access a greater attunement to self while bringing curiosity, empathy, empowerment, and respect to our therapeutic relationship. It is my privilege to participate in my patients’ processes of awakening their authentic selves.