Crystal Spiegel, LCSW

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I am a dedicated social worker, psychotherapist, and PhD candidate. My work is rooted in social justice. This lens helps to humble myself in the work and be curious about how my role in society impacts others. Extensive training in trauma has expanded that lens to embrace a holistic approach to healing. Above all I believe that the best therapy is done when your relationship with your therapist has a strong foundation, meaning, you like and trust your therapist enough so the therapy space becomes a place for creating the changes you want. 

Philosophy

I believe in people — in their capacity to grow, to heal, and to reconnect with the parts of themselves that trauma may have silenced or fragmented.

We all develop patterns of being and thinking that once helped us survive. These patterns are often shaped by early relationships, chronic stress, or unresolved trauma — especially in cases of Complex PTSD. Over time, those once-adaptive strategies can become rigid, isolating, or exhausting. They might keep us safe, but they also keep us stuck.

The good news is that your body and mind are always working toward healing — even if it doesn’t feel that way yet. Sometimes, what’s needed is a supportive and attuned relationship to help access that innate wisdom and guide it toward meaningful change.

In my practice, I’ve witnessed remarkable transformation. As people begin to gently unravel old trauma patterns — in thought, in nervous system responses, in relationships — they often report a profound sense of relief. They describe feeling more alive, more connected, and more at home in themselves.

Creative flow returns. Emotional numbness lifts. Relationships become deeper and more authentic. Most importantly, they begin to feel safe in their own inner world — often for the first time in years.

Healing from trauma isn’t about erasing the past — it’s about reclaiming your present. And I’m honored to walk alongside you in that process.

Work History

I started my healing career as an AmeriCorps volunteer in New York City, working with a non-profit to help protect vulnerable populations living with asthma. This was followed by 2 years in the Peace Corps in Ecuador where I worked extensively with local government and the community at large to promote general and mental health. After completing a Master of Social Work  (MSW) at Hunter College I began working at a community health center in Bed-Stuy as a psychotherapist with families and children affected by loss and HIV. I have spent some time studying in Boston and worked at a major LGBTQ+ health center continuing my work as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. In addition, I developed a documentary film making group with pre-teens that is the impetus for my current PhD studies in Expressive Therapies at Lesley University. 

I have advanced training in the following psychotherapy treatments:  Internal Family Systems, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy and sound healing.

Please contact me for a free 15-minute phone introduction.