Jay Sontag , LMHC

Jay Sontag is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in New York. Jay brings a human-centered, existential approach to therapy and focuses on women's issues alongside LGBT, relationship, family, grief, and parenting concerns.

Jay uses a straightforward, conversational style in sessions. He listens closely and helps people name what matters to them. Then he works with each person to build steps they can try between sessions. This is practical work that aims to make day-to-day life more manageable.

His background includes four years of clinical practice working with people facing family conflict, loss, and questions around identity and sexuality. Jay also supports people navigating adoption and foster care concerns, caregiver stress, and complicated family of origin dynamics. He addresses issues such as guilt, shame, forgiveness, and life purpose in ways that connect to a person’s real circumstances.

Jay identifies as LGBTQ+ and draws on that perspective when helping others with gender dysphoria, HIV/AIDS related concerns, and sexual identity questions. He is also comfortable talking about alternative sexual cultures including BDSM and non-monogamous relationships. His approach is rooted in respect for each person’s story and choices.

Sessions are offered in English and delivered online by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. Jay works collaboratively to help people clarify goals and take steady steps toward them.

Approach-driven online therapy for identity and relationships

Jay draws on Client-Centered Therapy to create a supportive space where people feel heard and understood. This approach focuses on the person's experience and helps them explore feelings and values at their own pace. Existential Therapy is also part of his work; it helps people wrestle with meaning, choice, and how to live in ways that feel authentic. Motivational Interviewing is used to help set concrete goals and build momentum when someone wants to make a change.

Finding the right mix of approaches happens together. Jay will talk with each person about their goals, needs, and preferences, and tailor sessions accordingly. He sees therapy as a collaboration where the client’s priorities guide the pace and focus of the work.

Online sessions are offered by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to make therapy more flexible. Video allows for face-to-face conversation when helpful, phone sessions work well when bandwidth is limited, and chat or messaging can fit shorter check-ins or busy schedules. These options make it easier to keep therapy consistent around work, caregiving, or other obligations.