Maanasa Gade, LCSW

Starting therapy is a courageous step toward meaningful growth and lasting change. Whether you’re feeling stuck in patterns of overthinking, avoidance, or people-pleasing, or simply seeking space to pause and reconnect with yourself, I’m here to support you with warmth, care, and curiosity. My goal is for you to leave our sessions with a clearer sense of purpose and a deeper alignment with what truly matters to you.

As a NY State licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I bring specialized training in evidence-based therapies to my work with individuals and groups. This includes, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for obsessive-compulsive disorder and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for chronic worry, health anxiety, performance and test anxiety, panic, phobias, misophonia, insomnia, trauma, and body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs). I also integrate mindfulness-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to address social anxiety, perfectionism, chronic illness/pain, burnout, and self-acceptance or identity concerns.

What sets my approach apart is my commitment to seeing you fully, not just your symptoms, but your inherent strengths, cultural identity, and lived experiences. Whether you're navigating your racial or ethnic identity, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability status, neurodivergence, immigration experience, socioeconomic background, religious or spiritual beliefs, relationship structures, family dynamics, or life transitions, my work is grounded in cultural humility and anti-oppressive practice.  I create a space where you can show up authentically so that we can engage meaningfully on the changes you’re seeking.

I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University, where I specialized in clinical practice with a focus on bodily health, mental health, and disability, and a B.A. in Psychology from Emory University. Beyond credentials, I believe healing happens within a strong therapeutic relationship. In the collaborative and supportive space we create together, lasting change can take root, on your terms, and in your time.

To learn more or set up an appointment with Maanasa call (646) 770-0535 or email us at info@realtalktherapynyc.com.