Tracey Ungar, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
San Antonio TX
My favorite thing about being a therapist is watching a client come to know and appreciate themselves in ways they never thought they could. I bring my genuine curiosity and love of personal expansion to our sessions. I base my interventions (including the frequency and length of sessions) on the requests and unique circumstances of each client. However, my general approach is to help you increase your awareness of who you are, develop a deep understanding and appreciation for what you have been experiencing, and then gently support you through changes you might want to make for a more satisfying and vibrant life. The feedback I typically get from clients is that they feel my genuine engagement and they respect the commitment and honesty I demonstrate in addressing challenging topics with them. Sometimes they are entertained by my sense of humor and the remnants of my New York accent.
After obtaining a BA from New York University, I completed the doctoral program in Clinical Psychology at Long Island University and wrote a dissertation on the topic of intergenerational transmission of trauma. I then obtained a post-doctoral certification in Psychodynamic Group Psychotherapy from The Postgraduate Center in Manhattan and completed a research fellowship at the Intercultural Institute on Human Development and Aging. I left New York to take a position treating active duty, deploying US Army service members. During my time at Fort Sam Houston, I became a trauma specialist and learned many of the evidence-based treatments currently used to treat PTSD. After 12 years of civil service, I left my position at Fort Sam Houston to pursue my passion for creating physical environments and home/work spaces that promote healing, reduce stress, and enhance performance. I now use environmental wellness and interior design principles to help clients see the potential for improved states of mind that can come from focusing on the quality of their lived-in spaces.
My first experience with psychedelic plant medicine was at a two-night ceremony. The experience was profound and I was immediately compelled to learn about the transformative power of psychedelics. I left that weekend with a commitment to becoming a practitioner who can assist people who are using psychedelics. I look forward to hearing about your journey.