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 graduating from New York University, I completed the doctoral program for Clinical Psychology at Long Island University and published 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 got my first clinical job at Vassar College in upstate New York. I loved New York with all its energy and stimulation and thought I would be there forever. However, things took an unexpected turn when I received a call, after the September 11 bombing, asking if I would consider using my trauma treatment skills to help active duty, deploying service members. I made my way to Fort Sam Houston and have developed a real appreciation for San Antonio and all the beautiful friends I have made here. My first experience with psychedelic plant medicine was at a two-night ceremony. I encountered possibilities I could never have imagined. New doors were opened and I could not turn back. I left that weekend with a passion for psychedelics and a commitment to supporting others who feel called to try this path. I look forward to hearing about your journey.