About Aaron Kaplan

Find an Inclusive Therapist In New York City

Hi, I’m Aaron. I’m a counselor-in-training dedicated to helping New Yorkers cope and thrive in the fast-paced, demanding, and competitive place that is New York while creating a best life that aligns with your true self.

You're exhausted from:

  • The anxiety spike every time your phone buzzes with a text from someone you're dating

  • Wondering if you're asking for too much or not enough

  • Dating people who seem interested at first, then slowly fade when you start to care

  • Feeling like you need to water yourself down to keep someone's interest

  • The internal voice questioning if there's something fundamentally wrong with you

  • The fear of being alone that pushes you into relationships you know aren't right

  • The cycle of jumping from one relationship to the next without time to breathe

Whether you're navigating friend, family, professional or romantic traditional and non-traditional relationship structures as a woman, man, non-binary person, queer or trans person seeking affordable therapy for the first time—I understand that standard relationship advice often falls short of addressing your unique challenges.

My journey to offering therapy in New York wasn't direct—and that's precisely what helps me understand people who feel like they don't fit neatly into boxes.

As a former performing artist, ordained clergy, and college admissions professional, I've experienced firsthand what it means to reassess your identity, purpose, and values. I've navigated my own period of questioning who I was versus who others expected me to be.

These experiences inform how I approach therapy: with genuine curiosity, active engagement, and a deep respect for your unique story. I bring my whole, authentic self to our sessions because I believe that's what creates the space for you to do the same.

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My Approach

You can count on me to engage actively and genuinely in our sessions. I truly believe in bringing my whole, authentic self to sessions. The work I do with you is always a collaborative effort. While my expertise and skills inform my therapeutic approach, our collaboration is entirely centered around you—your goals, your strengths, and your unique potential for growth. Understanding you is at the heart of what I do. I’m here to listen to your experiences and help you take the next steps forward  to address current life challenges and long-standing issues with confidence. 

My Personal Story & How I Decided To Become A Therapist

I was born in North Carolina and raised on Long Island. During my undergraduate years, I became captivated by human behavior while taking psychology courses in addition to my performing arts training. My passion for learning more about psychology deepened, and I wanted to explore more.

After graduation, I worked as a professional performing artist and higher education administrator here in New York City for several years.

Eventually, I moved to south Florida and Houston, Texas for several years working in the performing arts, higher education, and professional coaching.

Years later, new opportunities called me back to New York City. My interest in psychology and counseling remained strong, leading me to pursue a second graduate degree in mental health counseling at Northwestern University.

What Makes Our Work Together Different

When you work with me, we won't just talk about your "communication style" or give you generic dating tips. We'll dig into the patterns that keep playing out in your relationships—patterns that often started long before your dating life began.

I combine solution-focused, person-centered, and psychodynamic techniques in a way that helps you:

  • Recognize relationship patterns that no longer serve you

  • Understand how past experiences shape your current connections

  • Develop confidence in expressing your needs without apology

  • Build relationships where you feel secure, valued, and understood

  • Find comfort and peace with being single rather than viewing it as something to escape

  • Create a relationship with yourself that's as nurturing as the ones you seek with others

As a white, heterosexual man, I approach this work with humility and ongoing learning. I'm committed to creating a space where your full identity is honored and your experiences are never minimized.

Professional Status & Training

I am a pre-licensed professional counselor-in-training currently completing my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Northwestern University. I work under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional, ensuring you receive quality care while I complete my training.

Professional Credentials

Supervised By: Desiree Patrice, LMHC & Affiliated with Self-Centered Psychotherapy NYC

Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (In-Progress), Northwestern University

Membership in Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professional Honors Society International

Membership in American Counseling Association (ACA)

Membership in American Mental Health Counseling Association (AMHCA)

Membership in International Association of Marriage and Family Counselors (IAMFC)

Membership in Association in Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness (ACSSW)

Certified Coach, Coach Training Alliance

Certified Facilitator, Prepare/Enrich

Bachelor of Arts, Westminster Choir College of Rider University

Let’s Connect!

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Your privacy matters. All inquiries are confidential.